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Sample records for nanometer-sized y-ti-o nanoclusters

  1. Cr interaction in the formation of nano cluster of Y, Ti and O in bcc Fe an ab initio study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Murali, D.; Panigrahi, B.K.; Valsakumar, M.C.; Chandra, Sharath; Sundar, C.S.

    2008-01-01

    Nanostructured ferritic alloys containing highly stable fine dispersion of yttrium oxide nano particles, produced by mechanical alloying, are promising structural materials for fast fission and fusion environments. Formation of Cr depleted and O enriched Y-Ti-O nanoclusters are observed in the atom probe analysis. Ab initio calculations based on density functional theory are carried out to understand the role of Cr atom interactions with other solute atoms (Y, Ti, O) and vacancies in the formation of nanocluster. The binding energy of clusters of Y-Ti-O in bcc Fe is found to be very high in the presence of vacancies. Our calculations are consistent with the atom probe observation of depletion of Cr atoms and enrichment of O atoms in the nanoclusters. (author)

  2. Mesoporous TiO2 Micro-Nanometer Composite Structure: Synthesis, Optoelectric Properties, and Photocatalytic Selectivity

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kun Liu

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Mesoporous anatase TiO2 micro-nanometer composite structure was synthesized by solvothermal method at 180°C, followed by calcination at 400°C for 2 h. The as-prepared TiO2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, scanning electron microscope (SEM, transmission electron microscope (TEM, and Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FT-IR. The specific surface area and pore size distribution were obtained from N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm, and the optoelectric property of the mesoporous TiO2 was studied by UV-Vis absorption spectrum and surface photovoltage spectra (SPS. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photodegradation of sole rhodamine B (RhB and sole phenol aqueous solutions under simulated sunlight irradiation and compared with that of Degussa P-25 (P25 under the same conditions. The photodegradation preference of this mesoporous TiO2 was also investigated for an RhB-phenol mixed solution. The results show that the TiO2 composite structure consists of microspheres (∼0.5–2 μm in diameter and irregular aggregates (several hundred nanometers with rough surfaces and the average primary particle size is 10.2 nm. The photodegradation activities of this mesoporous TiO2 on both RhB and phenol solutions are higher than those of P25. Moreover, this as-prepared TiO2 exhibits photodegradation preference on RhB in the RhB-phenol mixture solution.

  3. Relaxation path of metastable nanoclusters in oxide dispersion strengthened materials

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ribis, J., E-mail: joel.ribis@cea.fr [DEN-Service de Recherches Métallurgiques Appliquées, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Thual, M.A. [LLB, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, CEA Saclay, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Guilbert, T.; Carlan, Y. de [DEN-Service de Recherches Métallurgiques Appliquées, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Legris, A. [UMET, CNRS/UMR 8207, Bât. C6, Univ. Lille 1, 59655 Villeneuve d’Ascq (France)

    2017-02-15

    ODS steels are a promising class of structural materials for sodium cooled fast reactor application. The ultra-high density of the strengthening nanoclusters dispersed within the ferritic matrix is responsible of the excellent creep properties of the alloy. Fine characterization of the nanoclusters has been conducted on a Fe-14Cr-0.3Ti-0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} ODS material using High Resolution and Energy Filtered Transmission Electron Microscopy. The nanoclusters exhibit a cubic symmetry possibly identified as f.c.c and display a non-equilibrium YTiCrO chemical composition thought to be stabilized by a vacancy supersaturation. These nanoclusters undergo relaxation towards the Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}-like state as they grow. A Cr shell is observed around the relaxed nano-oxides, this size-dependent shell may form after the release of Cr by the particles. The relaxation energy barrier appears to be higher for the smaller particles probably owing to a volume/surface ratio effect in reason to the full coherency of the nanoclusters. - Highlights: • The nanoclusters display a f.c.c. cubic symmetry and a non-equilibrium YTiCrO chemical composition. • During thermal annealing the coherent nanocluster transform into semi-coherent pyrochlore particles. • A Cr ring is observed around the relaxed pyrochlore type particles.

  4. Enhanced charge collection and photocatalysis performance of CdS and PbS nanoclusters co-sensitized TiO{sub 2} porous film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Miao; Xu, Yanyan; Gong, Zezhou; Tao, Jiajia [School of Physics & Material Science, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 (China); Sun, Zhaoqi, E-mail: szq@ahu.edu.cn [School of Physics & Material Science, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 (China); Lv, Jianguo [School of Electronic & Information Engineering, Hefei Normal University, Hefei, 230601 (China); National Laboratory for Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200083 (China); Chen, Xiaoshuang [National Laboratory for Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200083 (China); Jiang, Xishun [School of Physics & Material Science, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 (China); School of Mechanical & Electronic Engineering, Chuzhou University, Chuzhou, 239000 (China); He, Gang; Wang, Peihong; Meng, Fanming [School of Physics & Material Science, Anhui University, Hefei 230601 (China)

    2015-11-15

    A novel translucent TiO{sub 2} porous film was prepared through etched method. The CdS, PbS and CdS/PbS nanoclusters were imbedded on TiO{sub 2} porous film by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction method. Microstructure, morphology, optical and photoelectron-chemical properties of the as-synthesized thin films were investigated systematically. XRD and morphology analysis showed that PbS or CdS nanoclusters have been attached to the TiO{sub 2} porous films. It was found that the energy band gap of TiO{sub 2} porous film decreased from 3.46 to 3.2 eV after sensitized with nanoclusters. The photocurrent density of ITO/TiO{sub 2} photoelectrode increased from 0.017 to 0.28 mA/cm{sup 2} after co-sensitized with CdS and PbS nanoclusters. Besides, the photoelectrode sensitized with two sorts of nanoclusters showed evident higher photocurrent density than which sensitized just one sort of nanoclusters. The photocurrent density of ITO/TiO{sub 2}/PbS and TO/TiO{sub 2}/CdS photoelectrode was 0.11 mA/cm{sup 2} and 0.22 mA/cm{sup 2} respectively. 0.28 mA/cm{sup 2} can be obtained by ITO/TiO{sub 2}/CdS/PbS photoelectrode. The results showed that the optical and photoelectrochemistry properties and phtotcatalysis performance of TiO{sub 2} porous film were greatly improved by co-sensitized with CdS and PbS nanoclusters. - Graphical abstract: When CdS and PbS were brought in the cascade structure, such a Fermi level alignment causes upward and downward shifts of the band edges for PbS and CdS, respectively. Therefore the resulting band edges for the ITO/TiO{sub 2}/CdS/PbS devices are inferred to have a stepwise structure. The elevated conduction band edge of PbS provides a higher driving force for the injection of photogenerated electrons from PbS to CdS as well as the injection of excited holes from CdS to PbS. Such a structure offers efficient separation and transport of the excited electrons and holes. - Highlights: • Ti films were obtained from direct current

  5. Ab initio investigation of helium in Y_2Ti_2O_7: Mobility and effects on mechanical properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Danielson, T.; Tea, E.; Hin, C.

    2016-01-01

    Oxide nanoclusters (NCs) in nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs) are known to be efficient trapping sites for the transmutation product helium. In this study, the migration barriers and potential energy surfaces of helium in Y_2Ti_2O_7 are presented to explain the mobility of helium through oxide NCs and shed light on the accumulation of helium and the trapping mechanisms of the oxides. A complex tunnel-shaped potential energy surface is identified and gives rise to relatively large migration barriers. Subsequently, the effect of helium accumulation on the mechanical properties of Y_2Ti_2O_7 oxide nanoclusters is investigated and it is shown that the mechanical properties of the oxide do not significantly degrade as helium accumulates. - Highlights: • Migration barriers of helium in Y_2Ti_2O_7 are calculated using the climbing image nudged elastic band. • Helium Potential energy surfaces are calculated. • Mechanical properties of varying helium concentrations are presented.

  6. Highly selective GaN-nanowire/TiO2-nanocluster hybrid sensors for detection of benzene and related environment pollutants

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aluri, Geetha S; Motayed, Abhishek; Davydov, Albert V; Oleshko, Vladimir P; Bertness, Kris A; Sanford, Norman A; Rao, Mulpuri V

    2011-01-01

    Nanowire-nanocluster hybrid chemical sensors were realized by functionalizing gallium nitride (GaN) nanowires (NWs) with titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoclusters for selectively sensing benzene and other related aromatic compounds. Hybrid sensor devices were developed by fabricating two-terminal devices using individual GaN NWs followed by the deposition of TiO 2 nanoclusters using RF magnetron sputtering. The sensor fabrication process employed standard microfabrication techniques. X-ray diffraction and high-resolution analytical transmission electron microscopy using energy-dispersive x-ray and electron energy-loss spectroscopies confirmed the presence of the anatase phase in TiO 2 clusters after post-deposition anneal at 700 deg. C. A change of current was observed for these hybrid sensors when exposed to the vapors of aromatic compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene and chlorobenzene mixed with air) under UV excitation, while they had no response to non-aromatic organic compounds such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, chloroform, acetone and 1,3-hexadiene. The sensitivity range for the noted aromatic compounds except chlorobenzene were from 1% down to 50 parts per billion (ppb) at room temperature. By combining the enhanced catalytic properties of the TiO 2 nanoclusters with the sensitive transduction capability of the nanowires, an ultra-sensitive and selective chemical sensing architecture is demonstrated. We have proposed a mechanism that could qualitatively explain the observed sensing behavior.

  7. Methanol, ethanol and hydrogen sensing using metal oxide and metal (TiO(2)-Pt) composite nanoclusters on GaN nanowires: a new route towards tailoring the selectivity of nanowire/nanocluster chemical sensors.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Aluri, Geetha S; Motayed, Abhishek; Davydov, Albert V; Oleshko, Vladimir P; Bertness, Kris A; Sanford, Norman A; Mulpuri, Rao V

    2012-05-04

    We demonstrate a new method for tailoring the selectivity of chemical sensors using semiconductor nanowires (NWs) decorated with metal and metal oxide multicomponent nanoclusters (NCs). Here we present the change of selectivity of titanium dioxide (TiO(2)) nanocluster-coated gallium nitride (GaN) nanowire sensor devices on the addition of platinum (Pt) nanoclusters. The hybrid sensor devices were developed by fabricating two-terminal devices using individual GaN NWs followed by the deposition of TiO(2) and/or Pt nanoclusters (NCs) using the sputtering technique. This paper present the sensing characteristics of GaN/(TiO(2)-Pt) nanowire-nanocluster (NWNC) hybrids and GaN/(Pt) NWNC hybrids, and compare their selectivity with that of the previously reported GaN/TiO(2) sensors. The GaN/TiO(2) NWNC hybrids showed remarkable selectivity to benzene and related aromatic compounds, with no measurable response for other analytes. Addition of Pt NCs to GaN/TiO(2) sensors dramatically altered their sensing behavior, making them sensitive only to methanol, ethanol and hydrogen, but not to any other chemicals we tested. The GaN/(TiO(2)-Pt) hybrids were able to detect ethanol and methanol concentrations as low as 100 nmol mol(-1) (ppb) in air in approximately 100 s, and hydrogen concentrations from 1 µmol mol(-1) (ppm) to 1% in nitrogen in less than 60 s. However, GaN/Pt NWNC hybrids showed limited sensitivity only towards hydrogen and not towards any alcohols. All these hybrid sensors worked at room temperature and are photomodulated, i.e. they responded to analytes only in the presence of ultraviolet (UV) light. We propose a qualitative explanation based on the heat of adsorption, ionization energy and solvent polarity to explain the observed selectivity of the different hybrids. These results are significant from the standpoint of applications requiring room-temperature hydrogen sensing and sensitive alcohol monitoring. These results demonstrate the tremendous potential for

  8. Size-dependent structure of CdSe nanoclusters formed after ion implantation in MgO

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    van Huis, MA; van Veen, A; Schut, H; Eijt, SWH; Kooi, BJ; De Hosson, JTM

    The band gap as well as the optical and structural properties of semiconductor CdSe nanoclusters change as a function of the nanocluster size. Embedded CdSe nanoclusters in MgO were created by means of sequential Cd and Se ion implantation followed by thermal annealing. Changes during annealing were

  9. Ni-Nanocluster Modified Black TiO2 with Dual Active Sites for Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Billo, Tadesse; Fu, Fang-Yu; Raghunath, Putikam; Shown, Indrajit; Chen, Wei-Fu; Lien, Hsiang-Ting; Shen, Tzu-Hsien; Lee, Jyh-Fu; Chan, Ting-Shan; Huang, Kuo-You; Wu, Chih-I; Lin, M C; Hwang, Jih-Shang; Lee, Chih-Hao; Chen, Li-Chyong; Chen, Kuei-Hsien

    2018-01-01

    One of the key challenges in artificial photosynthesis is to design a photocatalyst that can bind and activate the CO 2 molecule with the smallest possible activation energy and produce selective hydrocarbon products. In this contribution, a combined experimental and computational study on Ni-nanocluster loaded black TiO 2 (Ni/TiO 2[Vo] ) with built-in dual active sites for selective photocatalytic CO 2 conversion is reported. The findings reveal that the synergistic effects of deliberately induced Ni nanoclusters and oxygen vacancies provide (1) energetically stable CO 2 binding sites with the lowest activation energy (0.08 eV), (2) highly reactive sites, (3) a fast electron transfer pathway, and (4) enhanced light harvesting by lowering the bandgap. The Ni/TiO 2[Vo] photocatalyst has demonstrated highly selective and enhanced photocatalytic activity of more than 18 times higher solar fuel production than the commercial TiO 2 (P-25). An insight into the mechanisms of interfacial charge transfer and product formation is explored. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  10. Effect of TiO2 nano fillers on the electrical conductivity of PSAN/TiO2 polymer nanocomposites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ningaraju, S.; Munirathnamma, L. M.; Kumar, K. V. Aneesh; Ravikumar, H. B.

    2016-05-01

    The microstructural characterization of Polystyrene co-acrylonitrile and Titanium dioxide (PSAN/TiO2) nanocomposites has been performed by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy. The decrease of positron lifetime parameters viz. o-Ps lifetime (τ3) and free volume size (Vf) up to 0.6 wt% of TiO2 is attributed to the filling of free volume holes by TiO2 nanoparticles. The increased free volume size (Vf) after 0.6 wt% of TiO2 indicates the formation of interface due to TiO2 nanoclusters. The variation of electrical conductivity at the lower and higher concentration of TiO2 in (PSAN/TiO2) nanocomposites is attributed to the blocking effect and space charge effect respectively.

  11. Ab initio investigation of helium in Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}: Mobility and effects on mechanical properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Danielson, T., E-mail: thomasd1@vt.edu [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060 (United States); Tea, E. [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060 (United States); Hin, C. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060 (United States); Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060 (United States)

    2016-08-15

    Oxide nanoclusters (NCs) in nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs) are known to be efficient trapping sites for the transmutation product helium. In this study, the migration barriers and potential energy surfaces of helium in Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} are presented to explain the mobility of helium through oxide NCs and shed light on the accumulation of helium and the trapping mechanisms of the oxides. A complex tunnel-shaped potential energy surface is identified and gives rise to relatively large migration barriers. Subsequently, the effect of helium accumulation on the mechanical properties of Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} oxide nanoclusters is investigated and it is shown that the mechanical properties of the oxide do not significantly degrade as helium accumulates. - Highlights: • Migration barriers of helium in Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} are calculated using the climbing image nudged elastic band. • Helium Potential energy surfaces are calculated. • Mechanical properties of varying helium concentrations are presented.

  12. Spinel Li2CoTi3O8 nanometer obtained for application as pigment

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Costa de Camara, M. S.; Alves Pimentel, L.; Longo, E.; Nobrega Azevedo, L. da; Araujo Melo, D. M. de

    2016-01-01

    Pigments are used in ceramics, cosmetics, inks, and other applications widely materials. To this must be single and easily reproducible. Moreover, the pigments obtained in the nanoscale are more stable, reproducible and highlight color in small amounts compared with those obtained in micrometer scale. The mixed oxides with spinel structures AB 2 O 4 have important applications, including: pigments, refractories, catalytic and electronic ceramics. In this context, the aim of this work was the preparation of powder Li 2 CoTi 3 O 8 spinel phase with nanometer particle size of the polymeric precursor method (Pechini) and characterization by means of thermal analysis (TG/DTA) X-ray diffraction (XRD), refined by the Rietveld method, BET, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman and colorimetric coordinates. The pigment was obtained by heat treatment of 400 degree centigrade to 1000 degree centigrade after pyrolysis at 300 degree centigrade/1 h for removing the organic material. Li 2 CoTi 3 O 8 desired spinel phase was obtained from 500 degree centigrade, and presenting stability nanometer to about 1.300 degree centigrade. Spinel green phase introduced at temperatures in the range of 400 degree centigrade and 500 degree centigrade, and 600 degree centigrade at temperatures between blue and 1000 degree centigrade. (Author)

  13. Size-dependent structure of CdSe nanoclusters formed after ion implantation in MgO

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Huis, M.A. van; Veen, A. van; Schut, H.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Kooi, B.J.; Hosson, J.Th.M. de

    2005-01-01

    The band gap as well as the optical and structural properties of semiconductor CdSe nanoclusters change as a function of the nanocluster size. Embedded CdSe nanoclusters in MgO were created by means of sequential Cd and Se ion implantation followed by thermal annealing. Changes during annealing were monitored using optical absorption and positron annihilation spectroscopy. High-resolution TEM on cross-sections after annealing at a temperature of 1300 K showed that clusters with a size below 5 nm have the high-pressure rock-salt structure and are in a cube-on-cube orientation relation with MgO, whereas clusters larger than 5 nm adopt the stable wurtzite crystal structure and were observed in two different orientation relations with MgO

  14. Size-dependent structure of CdSe nanoclusters formed after ion implantation in MgO

    OpenAIRE

    van Huis, MA; van Veen, A; Schut, H; Eijt, SWH; Kooi, BJ; De Hosson, JTM

    2005-01-01

    The band gap as well as the optical and structural properties of semiconductor CdSe nanoclusters change as a function of the nanocluster size. Embedded CdSe nanoclusters in MgO were created by means of sequential Cd and Se ion implantation followed by thermal annealing. Changes during annealing were monitored using optical absorption and positron annihilation spectroscopy. High-resolution TEM on cross-sections after annealing at a temperature of 1300 K showed that clusters with a size below 5...

  15. The role of minor alloying elements on the stability and dispersion of yttria nanoclusters in nanostructured ferritic alloys: An ab initio study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Murali, D.; Panigrahi, B.K.; Valsakumar, M.C.; Chandra, Sharat; Sundar, C.S.; Raj, Baldev

    2010-01-01

    Nanostructured ferritic alloys derive their strength from the dispersion of oxide nanoclusters in the ferritic matrix. We have explored the relative role of minor alloying elements like Ti and Zr on the stability of nanoclusters of vacancy-Y-Ti-O by density functional theory calculations and shown that the binding energy of these clusters increases when we replace Ti with Zr. This could imply faster nucleation of the nanoclusters which, in turn, may lead to finer dispersion of nanoclusters resulting in improved performance of ferritic alloys. Further, we show a core/shell structure for these nanoclusters in which the core is enriched in Y, O, Ti while the shell is enriched in Cr.

  16. Methanol, ethanol and hydrogen sensing using metal oxide and metal (TiO2–Pt) composite nanoclusters on GaN nanowires: a new route towards tailoring the selectivity of nanowire/nanocluster chemical sensors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aluri, Geetha S; Motayed, Abhishek; Davydov, Albert V; Oleshko, Vladimir P; Bertness, Kris A; Sanford, Norman A; Mulpuri, Rao V

    2012-01-01

    We demonstrate a new method for tailoring the selectivity of chemical sensors using semiconductor nanowires (NWs) decorated with metal and metal oxide multicomponent nanoclusters (NCs). Here we present the change of selectivity of titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanocluster-coated gallium nitride (GaN) nanowire sensor devices on the addition of platinum (Pt) nanoclusters. The hybrid sensor devices were developed by fabricating two-terminal devices using individual GaN NWs followed by the deposition of TiO 2 and/or Pt nanoclusters (NCs) using the sputtering technique. This paper present the sensing characteristics of GaN/(TiO 2 –Pt) nanowire–nanocluster (NWNC) hybrids and GaN/(Pt) NWNC hybrids, and compare their selectivity with that of the previously reported GaN/TiO 2 sensors. The GaN/TiO 2 NWNC hybrids showed remarkable selectivity to benzene and related aromatic compounds, with no measurable response for other analytes. Addition of Pt NCs to GaN/TiO 2 sensors dramatically altered their sensing behavior, making them sensitive only to methanol, ethanol and hydrogen, but not to any other chemicals we tested. The GaN/(TiO 2 –Pt) hybrids were able to detect ethanol and methanol concentrations as low as 100 nmol mol −1 (ppb) in air in approximately 100 s, and hydrogen concentrations from 1 µmol mol −1 (ppm) to 1% in nitrogen in less than 60 s. However, GaN/Pt NWNC hybrids showed limited sensitivity only towards hydrogen and not towards any alcohols. All these hybrid sensors worked at room temperature and are photomodulated, i.e. they responded to analytes only in the presence of ultraviolet (UV) light. We propose a qualitative explanation based on the heat of adsorption, ionization energy and solvent polarity to explain the observed selectivity of the different hybrids. These results are significant from the standpoint of applications requiring room-temperature hydrogen sensing and sensitive alcohol monitoring. These results demonstrate the tremendous potential

  17. 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.

  18. Quantum size effects in TiO2 thin films grown by atomic layer deposition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Massimo Tallarida

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available We study the atomic layer deposition of TiO2 by means of X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The Ti precursor, titanium isopropoxide, was used in combination with H2O on Si/SiO2 substrates that were heated at 200 °C. The low growth rate (0.15 Å/cycle and the in situ characterization permitted to follow changes in the electronic structure of TiO2 in the sub-nanometer range, which are influenced by quantum size effects. The modified electronic properties may play an important role in charge carrier transport and separation, and increase the efficiency of energy conversion systems.

  19. 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.

  20. Processing and microstructure characterisation of oxide dispersion strengthened Fe–14Cr–0.4Ti–0.25Y2O3 ferritic steels fabricated by spark plasma sintering

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Hongtao; Huang, Yina; Ning, Huanpo; Williams, Ceri A.; London, Andrew J.; Dawson, Karl; Hong, Zuliang; Gorley, Michael J.; Grovenor, Chris R.M.; Tatlock, Gordon J.; Roberts, Steve G.; Reece, Michael J.; Yan, Haixue; Grant, Patrick S.

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Nanostructured ODS steels were successfully produced by SPS. • Presence of Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoclusters was confirmed by synchrotron XRD and microscopy. • The chemistry of nanoclusters tested by ATP indicated they are Y–Ti–O oxides. - Abstract: Ferritic steels strengthened with Ti–Y–O nanoclusters are leading candidates for fission and fusion reactor components. A Fe–14Cr–0.4Ti + 0.25Y 2 O 3 (14YT) alloy was fabricated by mechanical alloying and subsequently consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The densification of the 14YT alloys significantly improved with an increase in the sintering temperature. Scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction revealed that 14YT SPS-sintered at 1150 °C under 50 MPa for 5 min had a high density (99.6%), a random grain orientation and a bimodal grain size distribution (<500 nm and 1–20 μm). Synchrotron X-ray diffraction patterns showed bcc ferrite, Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 , FeO, and chromium carbides, while transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography showed uniformly dispersed Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoclusters of <5 nm diameter and number density of 1.04 × 10 23 m −3 . Due to the very much shorter consolidation times and lower pressures used in SPS compared with the more usual hot isostatic pressing routes, SPS is shown to be a cost-effective technique for oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloy manufacturing with microstructural features consistent with the best-performing ODS alloys

  1. One-Pot Synthesis of Cu-Nanocluster-Decorated Brookite TiO2 Quasi-Nanocubes for Enhanced Activity and Selectivity of CO2 Photoreduction to CH4.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jin, Jingpeng; Luo, Jiang; Zan, Ling; Peng, Tianyou

    2017-11-17

    A new kind of metallic Cu-loaded brookite TiO 2 composite, in which Cu nanoclusters with a small size of 1-3 nm are decorated on brookite TiO 2 quasi nanocube (BTN) surfaces (hereafter referred to as Cu-BTN), is synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal process and then used as photocatalyst for CO 2 reduction. It was found that the decoration of Cu nanoclusters on BTN surfaces can improve the activity and selectivity of CO 2 photoreduction to CH 4 , and 1.5 % Cu-BTN gives a maximum overall photocatalytic activity (150.9 μmol g -1  h -1 ) for CO/CH 4 production, which is ≈11.4 and ≈3.3 times higher than those of pristine BTN (13.2 μmol g -1  h -1 ) and Ag-BTN (45.2 μmol g -1  h -1 ). Moreover, the resultant Cu-BTN products can promote the selective generation of CH 4 as compared to CO due to the number of surface oxygen vacancies and the CO 2 /H 2 O adsorption behavior, which differs from that of the pristine BTN. The present results demonstrate that brookite TiO 2 would be a potential effective photocatalyst for CO 2 photoreduction, and that Cu nanoclusters can act as an inexpensive and efficient co-catalyst alternative to the commonly used noble metals to improve the photoactivity and selectivity for CO 2 reduction to CH 4 . © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. Investigation on the photocatalytic degradation of pyrene on soil surfaces using nanometer anatase TiO2 under UV irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Dong Dianbo; Li Peijun; Li Xiaojun; Zhao Qing; Zhang Yinqiu; Jia Chunyun; Li Peng

    2010-01-01

    Photocatalytic degradation of pyrene on soil surfaces was investigated in the presence of nanometer anatase TiO 2 under a variety of conditions. After being spiked with pyrene, soil samples loaded with different amounts of TiO 2 (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, w/w) were exposed to UV irradiation for 25 h. The results indicated that the photocatalytic degradation of pyrene followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. TiO 2 accelerated the degradation of pyrene generally as indicated by the half-life reduction from 45.90 to 31.36 h, corresponding to the TiO 2 amounts from 0% to 4%, respectively. The effects of H 2 O 2 , light intensity and humic acids on the degradation of pyrene were also investigated. The degradation of pyrene increased along with increasing the concentration of H 2 O 2 , light intensity and the concentration of humic acids. All results indicated that the photocatalytic method in the presence of nanometer anatase TiO 2 was an advisable choice for the treatments of PAHs polluted soil in the future.

  3. Ab initio Investigation of Helium in Vanadium Oxide Nanoclusters

    Science.gov (United States)

    Danielson, Thomas; Tea, Eric; Hin, Celine

    Nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs) are strong candidate materials for the next generation of fission reactors and future fusion reactors. They are characterized by a large number density of oxide nanoclusters dispersed throughout a BCC iron matrix, where current oxide nanoclusters are primarily comprised of Y-Ti-O compounds. The oxide nanoclusters provide the alloy with high resistance to neutron irradiation, high yield strength and high creep strength at the elevated temperatures of a reactor environment. In addition, the oxide nanoclusters serve as trapping sites for transmutation product helium providing substantially increased resistance to catastrophic cracking and embrittlement. Although the mechanical properties and radiation resistance of the existing NFAs is promising, the problem of forming large scale reactor components continues to present a formidable challenge due to the high hardness and unpredictable fracture behavior of the alloys. An alternative alloy has been previously proposed and fabricated where vanadium is added in order to form vanadium oxide nanoclusters that serve as deflection sites for crack propagation. Although experiments have shown evidence that the fracture behavior of the alloys is improved, it is unknown whether or not the vanadium oxide nanoclusters are effective trapping sites for helium. We present results obtained using density functional theory investigating the thermodynamic stability of helium with the vanadium oxide matrix to make a comparison of trapping effectiveness to traditional Y-Ti-O compounds.

  4. Toxicological effects of nanometer titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2) on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Lanzhou; Zhou, Lina; Liu, Yongding; Deng, Songqiang; Wu, Hao; Wang, Gaohong

    2012-10-01

    The toxicological effects of nanometer titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2) on a unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were assessed by investigating the changes of the physiology and cyto-ultrastructure of this species under treatment. We found that nano-TiO2 inhibited photosynthetic efficiency and cell growth, but the content of chlorophyll a content in algae did not change, while carotenoid and chlorophyll b contents increased. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content reached maximum values after 8h exposure and then decreased to a moderately low level at 72 h. Electron microscopy images indicated that as concentrations of nano-TiO2 increased, a large number of C. reinhardtii cells were noted to be damaged: the number of chloroplasts declined, various other organelles were degraded, plasmolysis occurred, and TiO2 nanoparticles were found to be located inside cell wall and membrane. It was also noted that cell surface was surrounded by TiO2 particles, which could present an obstacle to the exchange of substances between the cell and its surrounding environment. To sum up, the effect of nano-TiO2 on C. reinhardtii included cell surface aggregation, photosynthesis inhibition, lipid peroxidation and new protein synthesis, while the response of C. reinhardtii to nano-TiO2 was a rapid process which occurs during 24 h after exposing and may relate to physiological stress system to mitigate damage. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Controllable 5-sulfosalicylic acid assisted solvothermal synthesis of monodispersed superparamagnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoclusters with tunable size

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Wentao [State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024 (China); Tang, Bingtao, E-mail: tangbt@dlut.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024 (China); Wu, Suli; Gao, Zhanming; Ju, Benzhi [State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024 (China); Teng, Xiaoxu [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100 (China); Zhang, Shufen [State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024 (China)

    2017-02-01

    Monodispersed Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoclusters were synthesized in a one-pot solvothermal route with 5-sulfosalicylic acid (SSA) as the functional ligand in a mixed-solvent system of diethylene glycol/ethylene glycol (DEG/EG). Nucleation and aggregation growth model was responsible for the formation of secondary structure of the clusters. In the process, the size of the clusters can be effectively controlled by varying the amounts of SSA and the volume ratio of DEG/EG. The nanoclusters exhibited superparamagnetic properties with high saturation magnetization value of about 68.7 emu g{sup −1} at room temperature. The water-soluble small-molecule SSA grafted on the surface of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals rendered the superparamagnetic clusters dispersible in water, which is crucial for potential applications in biomedical fields. - Graphical abstract: 5-sulfosalicylic acid assisted solvothermal synthesis of monodispersed superparamagnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoclusters with tunable size by a mixed-solvent system of DEG/EG. - Highlights: • Monodispersed Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoclusters were synthesized in a one-pot 5-sulfosalicylic acid assisted solvothermal route. • The size of the clusters are tunable by varying the amounts of 5-sulfosalicylic acid and the volume ratio of DEG/EG. • The nanoclusters exhibited superparamagnetic properties with high saturation magnetization value. • The 5-sulfosalicylic acid grafted Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoclusters can be dispersed in water.

  6. Preparation of 13X from Waste Quartz and Photocatalytic Reaction of Methyl Orange on TiO2/ZSM-5, 13X and Y-Zeolite.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Jia-Jie; Jing, You-Hai; Ouyang, Tong; Chang, Chang-Tang

    2015-08-01

    TiO2 photocatalytic reactions not only remove a variety of organic pollutants via complete mineralization, but also destroy the bacterial cell wall and cell membrane, thus playing an important bactericidal role. However, the post-filtration procedures to separate nanometer-levels of TiO2 and the gradual inactivity of photocatalyst during continuous use are defects that limit its application. In this case, we propose loading TiO2 on zeolite for easy separation and 13X is considered as a promising one. In our study, 13X-zeolite was prepared by a hydrothermal method and the source of Si was extracted from waste quartz sand. For comparison, commercial zeolite with different microporous and mesoporous diameters (ZSM-5 and Y-zeolites) were also used as TiO2 supports. The pore size of the three kinds of zeolites are as follows: Y-zeolite > 13X > ZSM-5. Different TiO2 loading content over ZSM-5, 13X and Y-zeolite were prepared by the sol-gel method. XRD, FTIR, BET, UV-vis, TGA and SEM were used for investigation of material characteristics. In addition, the efficiencies of mineralization and photodegradation were studied in this paper. The effects of the loading ratio of TiO2 over zeolites, initial pH, and concentration on photocatalytic performance are investigated. The relationship between best loading content of TiO2 and pore size of the zeolite was studied. The possible roles of the ZSM-5, 13X-zeolites and Y-zeolites support on the reactions and the possible mechanisms of effects were also explored. The best loading content of TiO2 over ZSM-5, 13X and Y-zeolite was found to be 50 wt%, 12.5 wt% and 7 wt%, respectively. The optimum pH condition is 3 with TiO2 over ZSM-5, 13X-zeolites and Y-zeolites. The results showed that the degradation and mineralization efficiency of 12.5 wt%GT13X (TiO2 over 13X) after 90 min irradiation reached 57.9% and 22.0%, which was better than that of 7 wt%GTYZ (TiO2 over Y-zeolites) while much lower than that of 50 wt%GTZ (TiO2 over ZSM-5

  7. Creation of Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} nanoprecipitates to strengthen the Fe-14Cr-3Al-2W steels by adding Ti hydride and Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Linbo; Bai, Zhonglian; Shen, Hailong; Wang, Chenxi; Liu, Tong, E-mail: tongliu@buaa.edu.cn

    2017-05-15

    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{sub 2}O{sub 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{sub 3}Al{sub 5}O{sub 12} phase to Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 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{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 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{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} nanoprecipitates by adding Ti hydride nanoparticles remarkably increases the mechanical properties of the Al-containing ODS steels. - Highlights: •TiH{sub 1.971} reacts with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} to form Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} in the Al-containing ODS steel. •Addition of TiH{sub 1.971} nanoparticles can prevent the formation of Y-Al-O phases. •Y{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 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{sub 1.971}. •The tensile strength of the ODS steel enlarges with increasing TiH{sub 1.971} content.

  8. Gold nanoclusters confined in a supercage of Y zeolite for aerobic oxidation of HMF under mild conditions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cai, Jiaying; Ma, Hong; Zhang, Junjie; Song, Qi; Du, Zhongtian; Huang, Yizheng; Xu, Jie

    2013-10-11

    Au nanoclusters with an average size of approximately 1 nm size supported on HY zeolite exhibit a superior catalytic performance for the selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF) into 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). It achieved >99 % yield of 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid in water under mild conditions (60 °C, 0.3 MPa oxygen), which is much higher than that of Au supported on metal oxides/hydroxide (TiO2 , CeO2 , and Mg(OH)2 ) and channel-type zeolites (ZSM-5 and H-MOR). Detailed characterizations, such as X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, N2 -physisorption, and H2 -temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), revealed that the Au nanoclusters are well encapsulated in the HY zeolite supercage, which is considered to restrict and avoid further growing of the Au nanoclusters into large particles. The acidic hydroxyl groups of the supercage were proven to be responsible for the formation and stabilization of the gold nanoclusters. Moreover, the interaction between the hydroxyl groups in the supercage and the Au nanoclusters leads to electronic modification of the Au nanoparticles, which is supposed to contribute to the high efficiency in the catalytic oxidation of HMF to FDCA. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Radiation-sustained nanocluster metastability in oxide dispersion strengthened materials

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ribis, J.; Bordas, E.; Trocellier, P.; Serruys, Y.; de Carlan, Y.; Legris, A.

    2015-12-01

    ODS materials constitute a new promising class of structural materials for advanced fission and fusion energy application. These Fe-Cr based ferritic steels contain ultra-high density of dispersion-strengthening nanoclusters conferring excellent mechanical properties to the alloy. Hence, guarantee the nanocluster stability under irradiation remain a critical issue. Nanoclusters are non-equilibrium multicomponent compounds (YTiCrO) forming through a complex nucleation pathway during the elaboration process. In this paper, it is proposed to observe the response of these nanoclusters when the system is placed far from equilibrium by means of ion beam. The results indicate that the Y, Ti, O and Cr atoms self-organized so that nanoclusters coarsened but maintain their non-equilibrium chemical composition. It is discussed that the radiation-sustained nanocluster metastability emerges from cooperative effects: radiation-induced Ostwald ripening, permanent creation of vacancies in the clusters, and fast Cr diffusion mediated by interstitials.

  10. Radiation-sustained nanocluster metastability in oxide dispersion strengthened materials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ribis, J.; Bordas, E.; Trocellier, P.; Serruys, Y.; Carlan, Y. de; Legris, A.

    2015-01-01

    ODS materials constitute a new promising class of structural materials for advanced fission and fusion energy application. These Fe–Cr based ferritic steels contain ultra-high density of dispersion-strengthening nanoclusters conferring excellent mechanical properties to the alloy. Hence, guarantee the nanocluster stability under irradiation remain a critical issue. Nanoclusters are non-equilibrium multicomponent compounds (YTiCrO) forming through a complex nucleation pathway during the elaboration process. In this paper, it is proposed to observe the response of these nanoclusters when the system is placed far from equilibrium by means of ion beam. The results indicate that the Y, Ti, O and Cr atoms self-organized so that nanoclusters coarsened but maintain their non-equilibrium chemical composition. It is discussed that the radiation-sustained nanocluster metastability emerges from cooperative effects: radiation-induced Ostwald ripening, permanent creation of vacancies in the clusters, and fast Cr diffusion mediated by interstitials.

  11. TiO2 Films Modified with Au Nanoclusters as Self-Cleaning Surfaces under Visible Light

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ting-Wei Liao

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available In this study, we applied cluster beam deposition (CBD as a new approach for fabricating efficient plasmon-based photocatalytic materials. Au nanoclusters (AuNCs produced in the gas phase were deposited on TiO2 P25-coated silicon wafers with coverage ranging from 2 to 8 atomic monolayer (ML equivalents. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM images of the AuNCs modified TiO2 P25 films show that the surface is uniformly covered by the AuNCs that remain isolated at low coverage (2 ML, 4 ML and aggregate at higher coverage (8 ML. A clear relationship between AuNCs coverage and photocatalytic activity towards stearic acid photo-oxidation was measured, both under ultraviolet and green light illumination. TiO2 P25 covered with 4 ML AuNCs showed the best stearic acid photo-oxidation performance under green light illumination (Formal Quantum Efficiency 1.6 × 10−6 over a period of 93 h. These results demonstrate the large potential of gas-phase AuNCs beam deposition technology for the fabrication of visible light active plasmonic photocatalysts.

  12. Au Nanoclusters Sensitized Black TiO2-x Nanotubes for Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy Driven by Near-Infrared Light.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Dan; Gulzar, Arif; Yang, Guixin; Gai, Shili; He, Fei; Dai, Yunlu; Zhong, Chongna; Yang, Piaoping

    2017-12-01

    The low reactive oxygen species production capability and the shallow tissue penetration of excited light (UV) are still two barriers in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Here, Au cluster anchored black anatase TiO 2- x nanotubes (abbreviated as Au 25 /B-TiO 2- x NTs) are synthesized by gaseous reduction of anatase TiO 2 NTs and subsequent deposition of noble metal. The Au 25 /B-TiO 2- x NTs with thickness of about 2 nm exhibit excellent PDT performance. The reduction process increased the density of Ti 3+ on the surface of TiO 2 , which effectively depresses the recombination of electron and hole. Furthermore, after modification of Au 25 nanoclusters, the PDT efficiency is further enhanced owing to the changed electrical distribution in the composite, which forms a shallow potential well on the metal-TiO 2 interface to further hamper the recombination of electron and hole. Especially, the reduction of anatase TiO 2 can expend the light response range (UV) of TiO 2 to the visible and even near infrared (NIR) light region with high tissue penetration depth. When excited by NIR light, the nanoplatform shows markedly improved therapeutic efficacy attributed to the photocatalytic synergistic effect, and promotes separation or restrained recombination of electron and hole, which is verified by experimental results in vitro and in vivo. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  13. Chemical and electrochemical synthesis of nano-sized TiO2 anatase for large-area photon conversion

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Babasaheb, Raghunath Sankapal; Shrikrishna, Dattatraya Sartale; Lux-Steiner, M.Ch.; Ennaoui, A.

    2006-01-01

    We report on the synthesis of nanocrystalline titanium dioxide thin films and powders by chemical and electrochemical deposition methods. Both methods are simple, inexpensive and suitable for large-scale production. Air-annealing of the films and powders at T = 500 C leads to densely packed nanometer sized anatase TiO 2 particles. The obtained layers are characterized by different methods such as: X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Titanium dioxide TiO 2 (anatase) phase with (101) preferred orientation has been obtained for the films deposited on glass; indium doped tin oxide (ITO) and quartz substrates. The powder obtained as the byproduct consists of TiO 2 with anatase-phase as well. (authors)

  14. Crossover from disordered to core-shell structures of nano-oxide Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} dispersed particles in Fe

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Higgins, M. P.; Wang, L. M.; Gao, F., E-mail: gaofeium@umich.edu [Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109 (United States); Lu, C. Y. [Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109 (United States); Key Laboratory for Anisotropy and Texture of Materials (Ministry of Education), Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110819 (China); Lu, Z. [Key Laboratory for Anisotropy and Texture of Materials (Ministry of Education), Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110819 (China); Shao, L. [Department of Nuclear Engineering, Texas A& M University, College Station, Texas 77843 (United States)

    2016-07-18

    Molecular dynamic simulations of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} in bcc Fe and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations were used to understand the structure of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-clusters in an oxide dispersion strengthened steel matrix. The study showed that Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-clusters below 2 nm were completely disordered. Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-clusters above 2 nm, however, form a core-shell structure, with a shell thickness of 0.5–0.7 nm that is independent of nano-cluster size. Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-clusters were surrounded by off-lattice Fe atoms, further increasing the stability of these nano-clusters. TEM was used to corroborate our simulation results and showed a crossover from a disordered nano-cluster to a core-shell structure.

  15. Nanometer-thin TiO2 enhances skeletal muscle cell phenotype and behavior

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ishizaki K

    2011-10-01

    Full Text Available Ken Ishizaki*, Yoshihiko Sugita*, Fuminori Iwasa, Hajime Minamikawa, Takeshi Ueno, Masahiro Yamada, Takeo Suzuki, Takahiro OgawaLaboratory for Bone and Implant Sciences, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, Biomaterials and Hospital Dentistry, UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA, USA*Authors contributed equally to this workBackground: The independent role of the surface chemistry of titanium in determining its biological properties is yet to be determined. Although titanium implants are often in contact with muscle tissue, the interaction of muscle cells with titanium is largely unknown. This study tested the hypotheses that the surface chemistry of clinically established microroughened titanium surfaces could be controllably varied by coating with a minimally thin layer of TiO2 (ideally pico-to-nanometer in thickness without altering the existing topographical and roughness features, and that the change in superficial chemistry of titanium is effective in improving the biological properties of titanium.Methods and results: Acid-etched microroughened titanium surfaces were coated with TiO2 using slow-rate sputter deposition of molten TiO2 nanoparticles. A TiO2 coating of 300 pm to 6.3 nm increased the surface oxygen on the titanium substrates in a controllable manner, but did not alter the existing microscale architecture and roughness of the substrates. Cells derived from rat skeletal muscles showed increased attachment, spread, adhesion strength, proliferation, gene expression, and collagen production at the initial and early stage of culture on 6.3 nm thick TiO2-coated microroughened titanium surfaces compared with uncoated titanium surfaces.Conclusion: Using an exemplary slow-rate sputter deposition technique of molten TiO2 nanoparticles, this study demonstrated that titanium substrates, even with microscale roughness, can be sufficiently chemically modified to

  16. Alcohol solvents evaporation-induced self-assembly synthesis of mesoporous TiO2- x- y C x N y nanoparticles toward visible-light driven photocatalytic activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liu, Shou-Heng; Syu, Han-Ren; Wu, Chung-Yi

    2014-12-01

    A one-step solvent evaporation-induced self-assembly (SEISA) process was demonstrated to prepare carbon and nitrogen co-doping mesoporous TiO2 nanoparticles (MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y - S) using an ionic liquid as carbon and nitrogen sources as well as mesoporous template. After the evaporation of different solvents (methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol) and subsequent calcinations at 773 K, the obtained MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y - S samples were systematically characterized by a variety of spectroscopic and analytical techniques, including small- and large-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. The results indicate that the solvents play an essential role on the chemical microstructure, doping elemental states, and photocatalytic performance of catalysts. The MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y -I samples have the lowest band gap of ca. 2.75 eV and strongest absorbance of visible light in the range of 400-600 nm. Among the MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y - S photocatalysts, the MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y -M catalysts show superior photocatalytic activity of hydrogen generation in methanol aqueous solution under visible light irradiation as compared to MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y -E, MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y -I, and commercial Degussa TiO2. This result could be attributed to the moderate C,N co-doping amounts on their developed mesoporous texture (pore size = 8.0 nm) and high surface area (107 m2 g-1) of TiO2 (crystallite size = 9.9 nm) in the MesoTiO2- x- y C x N y -M catalysts.

  17. Spinel Li{sub 2}CoTi{sub 3}O{sub 8} nanometer obtained for application as pigment; Espinela Li{sub 2}CoTi{sub 3}O{sub 8} nanometrica obtenida para aplicacion como pigmento

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Costa de Camara, M. S.; Alves Pimentel, L.; Longo, E.; Nobrega Azevedo, L. da; Araujo Melo, D. M. de

    2016-05-01

    Pigments are used in ceramics, cosmetics, inks, and other applications widely materials. To this must be single and easily reproducible. Moreover, the pigments obtained in the nanoscale are more stable, reproducible and highlight color in small amounts compared with those obtained in micrometer scale. The mixed oxides with spinel structures AB{sub 2}O{sub 4} have important applications, including: pigments, refractories, catalytic and electronic ceramics. In this context, the aim of this work was the preparation of powder Li{sub 2}CoTi{sub 3}O{sub 8} spinel phase with nanometer particle size of the polymeric precursor method (Pechini) and characterization by means of thermal analysis (TG/DTA) X-ray diffraction (XRD), refined by the Rietveld method, BET, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman and colorimetric coordinates. The pigment was obtained by heat treatment of 400 degree centigrade to 1000 degree centigrade after pyrolysis at 300 degree centigrade/1 h for removing the organic material. Li{sub 2}CoTi{sub 3}O{sub 8} desired spinel phase was obtained from 500 degree centigrade, and presenting stability nanometer to about 1.300 degree centigrade. Spinel green phase introduced at temperatures in the range of 400 degree centigrade and 500 degree centigrade, and 600 degree centigrade at temperatures between blue and 1000 degree centigrade. (Author)

  18. Chemical and electrochemical synthesis of nano-sized TiO{sub 2} anatase for large-area photon conversion

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Babasaheb, Raghunath Sankapal; Shrikrishna, Dattatraya Sartale; Lux-Steiner, M.Ch.; Ennaoui, A. [Hahn-Meitner-Institut, Div. of Solar Energy Research, Berlin (Germany)

    2006-05-15

    We report on the synthesis of nanocrystalline titanium dioxide thin films and powders by chemical and electrochemical deposition methods. Both methods are simple, inexpensive and suitable for large-scale production. Air-annealing of the films and powders at T = 500 C leads to densely packed nanometer sized anatase TiO{sub 2} particles. The obtained layers are characterized by different methods such as: X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Titanium dioxide TiO{sub 2} (anatase) phase with (101) preferred orientation has been obtained for the films deposited on glass; indium doped tin oxide (ITO) and quartz substrates. The powder obtained as the byproduct consists of TiO{sub 2} with anatase-phase as well. (authors)

  19. Visible Light Excited Catalysis and Reusability Performances of TiO2@Pr:Y2SiO5 Upconversion Materials

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yan Jiao

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available To get high efficiency photodegradation on pollutants under visible light, Pr(III doped Y2SiO5 upconversion materials and anatase TiO2 nanofilm coated Pr:Y2SiO5 composite have been prepared by using a sol-gel method. XRD and SEM test results indicated that TiO2 nanofilm was well coated on Pr:Y2SiO5 to form TiO2@Pr:Y2SiO5 composite particles with the sizes of 0.5–1.0 μm. To avoid secondary pollution resulting from incomplete recovery of catalyst particles, TiO2@Pr:Y2SiO5 was loaded on the glass fiber filters by using a dip-coating method. It is found that the catalyst particles were embedded into the carrier firmly, even after having been reused for 6 times. The luminescence intensities of TiO2@Pr:Y2SiO5 were getting down sharply with the coating contents of TiO2 increased, which was attributed to the adsorption of the luminescence by the TiO2 film in situ. As a result, TiO2@Pr:Y2SiO5 with 4% TiO2, which presented lowest luminescence intensity, showed the highest efficiency on the photodegradation of nitrobenzene wastewater. The catalysts loaded on glass fiber filters showed excellent reusability on the photodegradation of nitrobenzene and presented a photodegradation rate of 95% at the first time and up to 75.9% even after 6 times of reusing by the treatment time of 12 h.

  20. Size effect on the adsorption and dissociation of CO{sub 2} on Co nanoclusters

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yu, Haiyan; Cao, Dapeng; Fisher, Adrian [International Research Center for Soft Matter, State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029 (China); Johnston, Roy L. [School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT (United Kingdom); Cheng, Daojian, E-mail: chengdj@mail.buct.edu.cn [International Research Center for Soft Matter, State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029 (China)

    2017-02-28

    Highlights: • Co{sub 13}, Co{sub 38} and Co{sub 55} nanoclusters were predicted as the high-symmetry structures. • CO{sub 2} dissociation on the size-selected Co{sub 13}, Co{sub 38} and Co{sub 55} nanoclusters was studied. • Co{sub 55} nanocluster possesses the highest activity relevant to CO{sub 2} dissociation. • A non-monotonous behavior of the dissociation barrier of CO{sub 2} with the size was found. - Abstract: Spin-polarized density functional theory calculations were carried out to study the adsorption and dissociation properties of CO{sub 2} on size-selected Co{sub 13}, Co{sub 38} and Co{sub 55} nanoclusters. Based on genetic algorithm method, Co{sub 13}, Co{sub 38} and Co{sub 55} nanoclusters were predicted as the most stable high-symmetry structures among these Co{sub n} (n = 2–58) nanoclusters from the Gupta potential. For the adsorption of CO{sub 2}, CO and O on size-selected Co{sub 13}, Co{sub 38} and Co{sub 55} nanoclusters, the lowest adsorption strength is found for all the different adsorbates on Co{sub 55} nanocluster. For the dissociation of CO{sub 2} on these size-selected Co nanoclusters, the largest Co{sub 55} nanocluster possesses the greatest catalytic activity for the dissociation of CO{sub 2}, with the smallest reaction barrier of 0.38 eV. Our results reveal a non-monotonous behavior of the catalytic activities of Co nanoclusters on size, which is of fundamental interest for the design of new Co catalysts for the conversion of CO{sub 2}.

  1. Electronic-state-driven adsorption of O2 on a nanocrystalline TiO2 under 'dark' and UV-irradiation conditions: Ab initio study

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kevorkyants, R.; Sboev, M. N.; Chizhov, Yu. V.

    2018-04-01

    DFT study on O2 adsorption on a nanocrystalline titania is presented for the first time. The dioxide's nanoparticle is modeled via the nanocluster Ti8O16. According to the calculations, O2 physisorbs on the nanocluster Ti8O16 in S0 and T0 states and chemisorbs on the nanocluster in S1 state. The computed adsorption enthalpies, O2 vibrational frequencies, and O2-g-tensor agree well with available data. In contrast to the axial O2 orientation on a surface of titania with oxygen vacancies, in the chemisorption complex O2 is oriented laterally. We explain this by the sterical hindrance of the Ti3+ centers in the former case.

  2. Compensation mechanisms at high temperature in Y-doped BaTiO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Paredes-Olguín, M.; Lira-Hernández, I.A.; Gómez-Yáñez, C.; Espino-Cortés, F.P.

    2013-01-01

    Samples of BaTiO 3 with different concentrations of Y were synthesized from powders. The mixtures of powders were pressed and sintered at 1500 °C for 1 h. Two groups of samples were processed, one satisfying Ba/(Ti+Y) 3+ occupies the Ti 4+ lattice sites. The conductivity behavior as a function of Y concentration suggests that the compensation mechanisms are hole and oxygen vacancies. Due to the presence of charge carriers in the material, high values for the dielectric constant and dielectric loss were observed. Analysis of the microstructure showed that the average grain size decreases as the Y concentration is increased.

  3. Preparation and photoelectrocatalytic performance of N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cheng, Zhi-Lin; Han, Shuai

    2016-01-01

    A novel composite electrode material based on a N-doped TiO2-loaded NaY zeolite membrane (N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane) for photoelectrocatalysis was presented. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-visible (UV-vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization techniques were used to analyze the structure of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane. The XRD and SEM results verified that the N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with the size of ca. 20 nm have been successfully loaded on the porous stainless steel-supported NaY zeolite membrane. The UV-vis result showed that the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane exhibited a more obvious red-shift than that of N-TiO2 nanoparticles. The XPS characterization revealed that the doping of N element into TiO2 was successfully achieved. The photoelectrocatalysis performance of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was evaluated by phenol removal and also the effects of reaction conditions on the catalytic performance were investigated. Owing to exhibiting an excellent catalytic activity and good recycling stability, the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was of promising application for photoelectrocatalysis in wastewater treatment.

  4. Enhanced Bonding of Silver Nanoparticles on Oxidized TiO2(110)

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Hansen, Jonas Ørbæk; Salazar, Estephania Lira; Galliker, Patrick

    2010-01-01

    The nucleation and growth of silver nanoclusters on TiO2(110) surfaces with on-top O adatoms (oxidized TiO2), surface O vacancies and H adatoms (reduced TiO2) have been studied. From the interplay of scanning tunneling microscopy/photoelectron spectroscopy experiments and density functional theor...

  5. Strengthening of metallic alloys with nanometer-size oxide dispersions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Flinn, John E.; Kelly, Thomas F.

    1999-01-01

    Austenitic stainless steels and nickel-base alloys containing, by wt. %, 0.1 to 3.0% V, 0.01 to 0.08% C, 0.01 to 0.5% N, 0.05% max. each of Al and Ti, and 0.005 to 0.10% O, are strengthened and ductility retained by atomization of a metal melt under cover of an inert gas with added oxygen to form approximately 8 nanometer-size hollow oxides within the alloy grains and, when the alloy is aged, strengthened by precipitation of carbides and nitrides nucleated by the hollow oxides. Added strengthening is achieved by nitrogen solid solution strengthening and by the effect of solid oxides precipitated along and pinning grain boundaries to provide temperature-stabilization and refinement of the alloy grains.

  6. Strengthening of metallic alloys with nanometer-size oxide dispersions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Flinn, J.E.; Kelly, T.F.

    1999-06-01

    Austenitic stainless steels and nickel-base alloys containing, by wt. %, 0.1 to 3.0% V, 0.01 to 0.08% C, 0.01 to 0.5% N, 0.05% max. each of Al and Ti, and 0.005 to 0.10% O, are strengthened and ductility retained by atomization of a metal melt under cover of an inert gas with added oxygen to form approximately 8 nanometer-size hollow oxides within the alloy grains and, when the alloy is aged, strengthened by precipitation of carbides and nitrides nucleated by the hollow oxides. Added strengthening is achieved by nitrogen solid solution strengthening and by the effect of solid oxides precipitated along and pinning grain boundaries to provide temperature-stabilization and refinement of the alloy grains. 20 figs.

  7. Low temperature synthesis and photoluminescence study of Y2Ti2O7:Eu nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Selvi, E.; Prasad, A.I.; Nigam, Sandeep; Sudarsan, V.; Vatsa, R.K.

    2014-01-01

    Very small nanoparticles both undoped and doped Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 were prepared at a low temperature (700℃). The obtained undoped and doped Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 samples exhibit good crystallinity, smaller average crystallite size. Based on the detailed luminescence studies, it is confirmed that the lanthanide doped nano-materials have improved luminescence properties compared to the corresponding bulk samples. (author)

  8. Ultra-sensitive determination of epinephrine based on TiO{sub 2}-Au nanoclusters supported on reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotube hybrid nanocomposites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Jianbo, E-mail: chm_lijianbo@yeah.net; Wang, Xiaojiao; Duan, Huimin; Wang, Yanhui; Luo, Chuannan, E-mail: chm_lijianbo@yeah.net

    2016-07-01

    A highly efficient and sensitive electrochemical sensor for EP based on reduced graphene and multi-walled carbon nanotube hybrid nanocomposites loaded TiO{sub 2}-Au nano-clusters modified glassy carbon electrode was developed. The surface nature and morphology of the nanocomposite film and the electrochemical properties of the sensor were characterized by Raman spectra, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectra (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV), respectively. Carbon nanomaterials were widely used in sensing due to its large electroactive surface area, fast electron transport and strong adsorption capacity. Meanwhile, TiO{sub 2}-Au nano-clusters could accelerate the electron transfer, increase reactive site and extend electrochemical response window. The nanocomposite film could greatly enhance the response sensitivity and decrease the overpotential. The resulting sensor showed an excellent electrocatalytic activity toward EP. Under the optimum conditions (i.e. pH 6.0, 0.1 M PBS, preconcentration for 110 s), Differential pulse voltammetry was employed to detect ultra-trace amounts of EP. The result of a wide linear range of 1.0–300 nM and limited of detection 0.34 nM (S/N = 3) were obtained. The constructed sensor exhibited excellent accuracy and precision, the relative standard deviation (RSD) was less than 5%. The nanocomposite film sensor was successfully used to accurately detect the content of EP in practical samples, and the recoveries for the standards added are 97%–105%. - Highlights: • The three dimensional composite materials rGO/CNTs were successful synthesized. • High conductivity and catalytic activity of TiO{sub 2}-Au nanoclusters were synthesized. • The sensor displays a wide linear range, low detection limit and good stability.

  9. Compensation mechanisms at high temperature in Y-doped BaTiO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Paredes-Olguin, M., E-mail: myriampaol@gmail.com [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, ESIQIE National Polytechnic Institute, U.P.A. Lopez Mateos, Zacatenco, Mexico City 07738 (Mexico); Lira-Hernandez, I.A.; Gomez-Yanez, C. [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, ESIQIE National Polytechnic Institute, U.P.A. Lopez Mateos, Zacatenco, Mexico City 07738 (Mexico); Espino-Cortes, F.P. [Department of Electrical Engineering, SEPI-ESIME National Polytechnic Institute, U.P.A. Lopez Mateos, Zacatenco, Mexico City 07738 (Mexico)

    2013-02-01

    Samples of BaTiO{sub 3} with different concentrations of Y were synthesized from powders. The mixtures of powders were pressed and sintered at 1500 Degree-Sign C for 1 h. Two groups of samples were processed, one satisfying Ba/(Ti+Y)<1 and the other satisfying Ba/(Ti+Y)=1. X-ray diffraction patterns were analyzed by Rietveld refinement and it was concluded that Y{sup 3+} occupies the Ti{sup 4+} lattice sites. The conductivity behavior as a function of Y concentration suggests that the compensation mechanisms are hole and oxygen vacancies. Due to the presence of charge carriers in the material, high values for the dielectric constant and dielectric loss were observed. Analysis of the microstructure showed that the average grain size decreases as the Y concentration is increased.

  10. The comparison of microstructure and nanocluster evolution in proton and neutron irradiated Fe–9%Cr ODS steel to 3 dpa at 500 °C

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Swenson, M.J., E-mail: matthewswenson1@u.boisestate.edu; Wharry, J.P.

    2015-12-15

    A model Fe–9%Cr oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steel was irradiated with protons or neutrons to a dose of 3 displacements per atom (dpa) at a temperature of 500 °C, enabling a direct comparison of ion to neutron irradiation effects at otherwise fixed irradiation conditions. The irradiated microstructures were characterized using transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography including cluster analysis. Both proton and neutron irradiations produced a comparable void and dislocation loop microstructure. However, the irradiation response of the Ti–Y–O oxide nanoclusters varied. Oxides remained stable under proton irradiation, but exhibited dissolution and an increase in Y:Ti composition ratio under neutron irradiation. Both proton and neutron irradiation also induced varying extents of Si, Ni, and Mn clustering at existing oxide nanoclusters. Protons are able to reproduce the void and loop microstructure of neutron irradiation carried out to the same dose and temperature. However, since nanocluster evolution is controlled by both diffusion and ballistic impacts, protons are rendered unable to reproduce the nanocluster evolution of neutron irradiation at the same dose and temperature. - Highlights: • Fe–9% Cr ODS was irradiated with protons and neutrons to 3 dpa at 500 °C. • Dislocation loop size and density were similar upon proton and neutron irradiation. • Oxide nanocluster size and density decreased more with neutron irradiation. • Oxide Y:Ti ratio increased from 0.54 to 0.97 upon neutron irradiation. • Irradiation induced enrichment of Si, Mn, and Ni at oxide locations.

  11. Ultrasonic force microscopy on poly(vinyl alcohol)/SrTiO3 nano-perovskites hybrid films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Marino, Salvatore; Joshi, Girish M.; Lusuardi, Angelo; Cuberes, M. Teresa

    2014-01-01

    Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Ultrasonic Force Microscopy (UFM) have been applied to the characterization of composite samples formed by SrTiO 3 (STO) nanoparticles (NPs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The morphological features of the STO NPs were much better resolved using UFM than contact-mode AFM topography. For high STO concentrations the individual STO NPs formed nanoclusters, which gathered in microaggregates. The STO aggregates, covered by PVA, exhibited no AFM frictional contrast, but were clearly distinguished from the PVA matrix using UFM. Similar aggregation was observed for NPs in the composite samples and for NPs deposited on top of a flat silicon substrate from milliQ water solution in the absence of polymer. In the hybrid films, most STO nanoparticles typically presented a lower UFM contrast than the PVA matrix, even though stiffer sample regions such as STO should give rise to a higher UFM contrast. STO NPs with intermediate contrast were characterized by an UFM halo of lower contrast at the PVA/STO interface. The results may be explained by considering that ultrasound is effectively damped on the nanometer scale at PVA/STO interfaces. According to our data, the nanoscale ultrasonic response at the PVA/STO interface plays a fundamental role in the UFM image contrast. - Highlights: • Hybrid films of SrTiO 3 nanoparticles and PVA have been studied using AFM, FFM and UFM. • The SrTiO 3 nanoparticles form nano-clusters from 3 to 5 individuals, which for high concentrations gather in micro-aggregates. • Most SrTiO 3 nanoparticles in the composite samples exhibited a lower (softer) UFM contrast than the PVA matrix. • In the UFM images, SrTiO 3 nanoparticles with intermediate contrast are delimited by a lower-contrast halo at the PVA boundary. • The nanoscale ultrasonic response at the PVA/SrTiO 3 interface plays a fundamental role in the UFM image contrast

  12. Heterogeneous Photodecolorization of Methyl Green Catalyzed by Fe(II-o-Phenanthroline/Zeolite Y Nanocluster

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alireza Nezamzadeh-Ejhieh

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available The potential of Fe(II-orthophenatrolin, as doped with synthetic zeolite Y nanocluster (Na-Y via complexation process, after wet impregnation of parent zeolite with FeSO4 aqueous solution, was studied as a photocatalyst in decolorization of Methyl Green (MG under UV irradiation. The characterization of the synthesized zeolite nanocluster and the prepared catalyst was studied using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD, infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR, thermal analysis, and SEM methods. The dye photodecolorization process was studied considering the influence of experimental parameters and it was observed that photoreactivity of the photocatalyst was varied with catalyst amount, initial dye concentration, pH of dye solution, temperature, and the presence of KBrO3. The optimal experimental parameters were obtained as follows: catalyst amount: 1 gL−1, dye concentration: 40 ppm, pH: 9, and active component value: 100 mg Fe(II-orthophenatrolin per g catalyst. The reusability of the intended catalyst was also investigated. The degradation process obeyed first-order kinetics.

  13. Study of directionally solidified eutectic Al2O3-ZrO2(3%Y2O3 doped with TiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Peña, J. I.

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available An study of directionally grown samples of the eutectic composition in the Al2O3-ZrO2 (3 mol% Y2O3 system, with small TiO2 additions (1 wt%, is presented. The microstructural changes induced by this addition are analysed using SEM (EDX techniques. The mechanical changes, when TiO2 is added, are studied by measuring the flexural strength by three point bending. Also, the toughness is determined by Vickers indentation method. When slow growth rates (10 mm/h are used, interpenetratred and homogeneous microstructure is obtained, independently of the TiO2 doping. When growth rates are higher (300 and 1000 mm/h the structure changes and the phases are organized in form of colonies or cells, which have smaller size when TiO2 is present. This size reduction is accompanied with an increase of the toughness.Este trabajo presenta un estudio de muestras crecidas direccionalmente del sistema Al2O3-ZrO2 (3 mol% Y2O3 en su composición eutéctica con pequeñas adiciones de óxido de titanio (1% de TiO2 en peso. Se analizan los cambios microestructurales inducidos por esta adición mediante SEM (EDX y se estudian los cambios en su comportamiento mecánico medido por flexión en tres puntos, así como la tenacidad de fractura mediante indentación Vickers. Con velocidades lentas de solidificación (10 mm/h se obtiene en ambos casos una microestructura homogénea e interpenetrada, mientras que a velocidades mayores, 300 y 1000 mm/h, se forma una estructura en las que las fases se organizan en forma de colonias o células, siendo éstas de menor tamaño en las muestras dopadas. Esta disminución en el tamaño viene acompañada de un aumento de la tenacidad de fractura medida por indentación.

  14. Ultrasonic force microscopy on poly(vinyl alcohol)/SrTiO{sub 3} nano-perovskites hybrid films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Marino, Salvatore, E-mail: smarino71@gmail.com [Laboratory of Nanotechnology, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Plaza Manuel Meca 1, 13400 Almadén (Spain); Joshi, Girish M. [Polymer Nanocomposite Laboratory, Materials Physics Division, School of Advanced Sciences VIT University, Vellore 14, Tamil Nadu (India); Lusuardi, Angelo [Laboratory of Nanotechnology, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Plaza Manuel Meca 1, 13400 Almadén (Spain); Cuberes, M. Teresa, E-mail: teresa.cuberes@uclm.es [Laboratory of Nanotechnology, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Plaza Manuel Meca 1, 13400 Almadén (Spain)

    2014-07-01

    Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Ultrasonic Force Microscopy (UFM) have been applied to the characterization of composite samples formed by SrTiO{sub 3} (STO) nanoparticles (NPs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The morphological features of the STO NPs were much better resolved using UFM than contact-mode AFM topography. For high STO concentrations the individual STO NPs formed nanoclusters, which gathered in microaggregates. The STO aggregates, covered by PVA, exhibited no AFM frictional contrast, but were clearly distinguished from the PVA matrix using UFM. Similar aggregation was observed for NPs in the composite samples and for NPs deposited on top of a flat silicon substrate from milliQ water solution in the absence of polymer. In the hybrid films, most STO nanoparticles typically presented a lower UFM contrast than the PVA matrix, even though stiffer sample regions such as STO should give rise to a higher UFM contrast. STO NPs with intermediate contrast were characterized by an UFM halo of lower contrast at the PVA/STO interface. The results may be explained by considering that ultrasound is effectively damped on the nanometer scale at PVA/STO interfaces. According to our data, the nanoscale ultrasonic response at the PVA/STO interface plays a fundamental role in the UFM image contrast. - Highlights: • Hybrid films of SrTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles and PVA have been studied using AFM, FFM and UFM. • The SrTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles form nano-clusters from 3 to 5 individuals, which for high concentrations gather in micro-aggregates. • Most SrTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles in the composite samples exhibited a lower (softer) UFM contrast than the PVA matrix. • In the UFM images, SrTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles with intermediate contrast are delimited by a lower-contrast halo at the PVA boundary. • The nanoscale ultrasonic response at the PVA/SrTiO{sub 3} interface plays a fundamental role in the UFM image contrast.

  15. Simple and rapid spectrophotometric determination of trace titanium (IV) enriched by nanometer size zirconium dioxide in natural water

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zheng Fengying; Li Shunxing; Lin Luxiu; Cheng Liqing

    2009-01-01

    A novel method for preconcentration of Ti(IV) with nanometer size ZrO 2 and determination by spectrophotometry has been developed. Ti(IV) was selectively adsorbed on 300 mg ZrO 2 from 500 mL solution at pH 6.0, then eluted by 5 mL 11.3 mol L -1 HF. The eluent added was diantipyrylmethane (DAPM, as chromogenic reagent) and ascorbic acid (as masking agent), used for the analysis of Ti(IV) by measuring the absorbance at 390 nm with spectrophotometry, based on the chromogenic reaction between the Ti(IV) and DAPM. This method gave a concentration enhancement of 100 for 500 mL sample, eliminated the sizable interferences on direct determination with spectrophotometry. Detection limit (3σ, n = 11) of 0.1 μg L -1 was obtained. The method was applied to determine the concentration of Ti(IV) in river water and seawater and the analytical recoveries of Ti(IV) added to samples were 97.6-101.3%.

  16. Y-doping TiO2 nanorod arrays for efficient perovskite solar cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Deng, Xinlian; Wang, Yanqing; Cui, Zhendong; Li, Long; Shi, Chengwu

    2018-05-01

    To improve the electron transportation in TiO2 nanorod arrays and charge separation in the interface of TiO2/perovskite, Y-doping TiO2 nanorod arrays with the length of 200 nm, diameter of 11 nm and areal density of 1050 μm-2 were successfully prepared by the hydrothermal method and the influence of Y/Ti molar ratios of 0%, 3%, 5% in the hydrothermal grown solutions on the growth of TiO2 nanorod arrays was investigated. The results revealed that the appropriate Y/Ti molar ratios can increase the areal density of the corresponding TiO2 nanorod arrays and improve the charge separation in the interface of the TiO2/perovskite. The Y-doping TiO2 nanorod array perovskite solar cells with the Y/Ti molar ratio of 3% exhibited a photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.11% along with an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.06 V, short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) of 22.50 mA cm-2 and fill factor (FF) of 76.16%, while the un-doping TiO2 nanorod array perovskite solar cells gave a PCE of 16.42% along with Voc of 1.04 V, Jsc of 21.66 mA cm-2 and FF of 72.97%.

  17. The local environment of cobalt in amorphous, polycrystalline and epitaxial anatase TiO{sub 2}:Co films produced by cobalt ion implantation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yildirim, O. [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research, Bautzner Landstr. 400, 01328 Dresden (Germany); Technische Universität Dresden, D-01062 Dresden (Germany); Cornelius, S.; Hübner, R.; Potzger, K. [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research, Bautzner Landstr. 400, 01328 Dresden (Germany); Smekhova, A.; Zykov, G.; Gan' shina, E. A.; Granovsky, A. B. [Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Faculty of Physics, 119991 Moscow (Russian Federation); Bähtz, C. [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research, Bautzner Landstr. 400, 01328 Dresden (Germany); Rossendorf Beamline, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, F-38043 Grenoble (France)

    2015-05-14

    Amorphous, polycrystalline anatase and epitaxial anatase TiO{sub 2} films have been implanted with 5 at. % Co{sup +}. The magnetic and structural properties of different microstructures of TiO{sub 2}:Co, along with the local coordination of the implanted Co atoms within the host lattice are investigated. In amorphous TiO{sub 2}:Co film, Co atoms are in the (II) oxidation state with a complex coordination and exhibit a paramagnetic response. However, for the TiO{sub 2}:Co epitaxial and polycrystalline anatase films, Co atoms have a distorted octahedral (II) oxygen coordination assigned to a substitutional environment with traces of metallic Co clusters, which gives a rise to a superparamagnetic behavior. Despite the incorporation of the implanted atoms into the host lattice, high temperature ferromagnetism is absent in the films. On the other hand, it is found that the concentration and size of the implantation-induced nanoclusters and the magnetic properties of TiO{sub 2}:Co films have a strong dependency on the initial microstructure of TiO{sub 2}. Consequently, metallic nanocluster formation within ion implantation prepared transition metal doped TiO{sub 2} can be suppressed by tuning the film microstructure.

  18. TiO2 effect on crystallization mechanism and physical properties of nano glass-ceramics of MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 glass system.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jo, Sinae; Kang, Seunggu

    2013-05-01

    The effect of TiO2 on the degree of crystallization, thermal properties and microstructure for MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 glass-ceramics system containing 0-13 wt% TiO2 and 0-1.5 wt% B2O3 in which the cordierite is the main phase was studied. Using Kissinger and Augis-Bennett equations, the activation energy, 510 kJ/mol and Avrami constant, 1.8 were calculated showing the surface-oriented crystallization would be preferred. The alpha-cordierite phase was generated in the glass-ceramics of containing TiO2 of 0-5.6 wt%. However, for the glass-ceramics of TiO2 content above 7 wt%, an alpha-cordierite disappeared and micro-cordierite phase was formed. The glass-ceramics of no TiO2 added had spherical crystals of few tens nanometer size spread in the matrix. As TiO2 content increased up to 5.6 wt%, a lump of dendrite was formed. In the glass-ceramics containing TiO2 7-13 wt%, in which the main phase is micro-cordierite, the dendrite crystal disappeared and a few hundred nanometer sized crystal particles hold tightly each other were generated. The thermal conductivity of glass-ceramics of both a-cordierite and micro-cordierite base decreased with TiO2 contend added. The thermal conductivity of glass-ceramics of 1.5 wt% TiO2 added was 3.4 W/mK which is 36% higher than that of glass-ceramics of no TiO2 added. The sintering temperature for 1.5 wt% TiO2 glass-ceramics was 965 degrees C which could be concluded as to apply to LTCC process for LED packaging.

  19. Ferritic oxide dispersion strengthened alloys by spark plasma sintering

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Allahar, Kerry N., E-mail: KerryAllahar@boisestate.edu [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Burns, Jatuporn [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Jaques, Brian [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Wu, Y.Q. [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Charit, Indrajit [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho, McClure Hall Room 405D, Moscow, ID 83844 (United States); Cole, James [Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Butt, Darryl P. [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States)

    2013-11-15

    Spark plasma sintering (SPS) was used to consolidate a Fe–16Cr–3Al (wt.%) powder that was mechanically alloyed with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Ti powders to produce 0.5 Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 0.5 Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}–1Ti powders. The effects of mechanical alloying and sintering conditions on the microstructure, relative density and hardness of the sintered oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys are presented. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a mixed fine-grain and coarse-grain microstructure that was attributed to recrystallization and grain growth during sintering. Analysis of the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atom probe tomography (APT) data identified Y–O and Y–O–Ti nanoclusters. Elemental ratios of these nanoclusters were consistent with that observed in hot-extruded ODS alloys. The influence of Ti was to refine the grains as well as the nanoclusters with there being greater number density and smaller sizes of the Y–O–Ti nanoclusters as compared to the Y–O nanoclusters. This resulted in the Ti-containing samples being harder than the Ti-free alloys. The hardness of the alloys with the Y–O–Ti nanoclusters was insensitive to sintering time while smaller hardness values were associated with longer sintering times for the alloys with the Y–O nanoclusters. Pressures greater than 80 MPa are recommended for improved densification as higher sintering temperatures and longer sintering times at 80 MPa did not improve the relative density beyond 97.5%.

  20. Pressurized polyol synthesis of Al-doped ZnO nanoclusters with high electrical conductivity and low near-infrared transmittance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Ho-Nyun; Shin, Chi-Ho [Surface Technology R& BD Group, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), Incheon 406-840 (Korea, Republic of); Hwang, Duck Kun [Department of Corporate Diagnosis, Small and Medium Business Corporation, Seoul 150-718 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Haekyoung [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 712-749 (Korea, Republic of); Oh, Kyeongseok [Department of Chemical and Environmental Technology, Inha Technical College, Incheon 402-752 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Hyun-Jong, E-mail: hjkim23@kitech.re.kr [Surface Technology R& BD Group, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), Incheon 406-840 (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-09-25

    Highlights: • Low-temperature pressurized polyol method synthesized Al-doped ZnO nanoclusters. • Reaction time affected the doping efficiency, resistivity, and NIR transmittance. • The near-IR blocking efficiency of Al-doped ZnO (AZO) nanoclusters reached 85%. • AZO nanocluster coatings could be used for heat reflectors or artificial glasses. - Abstract: In this study, a novel pressurized polyol method is proposed to synthesize aluminum-doped ZnO (AZO) nanoclusters without utilizing additional thermal treatment to avoid the merging of nanoclusters. The size of the AZO nanoclusters range from 100 to 150 nm with a resistivity of 204 Ω cm. The AZO nanoclusters primarily consist of approximately 10-nm nanocrystals that form a spherically clustered morphology. A two-stage growth model has been proposed based on the results of scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images, nanocluster sizes, and X-ray diffraction patterns. The primary AZO nanocrystals first nucleate under pressurized conditions and then spontaneously aggregate into larger nanoclusters. Optically, the AZO nanoclusters exhibit a significant decrease in the near-infrared (NIR) transmittance compared to pure ZnO nanoparticles. The NIR blocking efficiency of AZO nanoclusters reached 85%. Moreover, the doping efficiency, resistivity, and NIR transmittance of AZO nanoclusters are influenced by the reaction time in the pressurized polyol solution. On the other hand, the reaction time has no effect on the particle size and crystallinity. An optically transparent coating for the AZO nanoclusters, which consisted of iso-propanol solvent and ultraviolet-curable acrylic binder, was also demonstrated.

  1. Alcohol solvents evaporation-induced self-assembly synthesis of mesoporous TiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y} nanoparticles toward visible-light driven photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Shou-Heng, E-mail: shliu@kuas.edu.tw; Syu, Han-Ren; Wu, Chung-Yi [National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering (China)

    2014-12-15

    A one-step solvent evaporation-induced self-assembly (SEISA) process was demonstrated to prepare carbon and nitrogen co-doping mesoporous TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-S) using an ionic liquid as carbon and nitrogen sources as well as mesoporous template. After the evaporation of different solvents (methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol) and subsequent calcinations at 773 K, the obtained MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-S samples were systematically characterized by a variety of spectroscopic and analytical techniques, including small- and large-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N{sub 2} adsorption–desorption isotherms, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. The results indicate that the solvents play an essential role on the chemical microstructure, doping elemental states, and photocatalytic performance of catalysts. The MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-I samples have the lowest band gap of ca. 2.75 eV and strongest absorbance of visible light in the range of 400–600 nm. Among the MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-S photocatalysts, the MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-M catalysts show superior photocatalytic activity of hydrogen generation in methanol aqueous solution under visible light irradiation as compared to MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-E, MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-I, and commercial Degussa TiO{sub 2}. This result could be attributed to the moderate C,N co-doping amounts on their developed mesoporous texture (pore size = 8.0 nm) and high surface area (107 m{sup 2} g{sup −1}) of TiO{sub 2} (crystallite size = 9.9 nm) in the MesoTiO{sub 2−x−y}C{sub x}N{sub y}-M catalysts.

  2. Alcohol solvents evaporation-induced self-assembly synthesis of mesoporous TiO2−x−yCxNy nanoparticles toward visible-light driven photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Shou-Heng; Syu, Han-Ren; Wu, Chung-Yi

    2014-01-01

    A one-step solvent evaporation-induced self-assembly (SEISA) process was demonstrated to prepare carbon and nitrogen co-doping mesoporous TiO 2 nanoparticles (MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -S) using an ionic liquid as carbon and nitrogen sources as well as mesoporous template. After the evaporation of different solvents (methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol) and subsequent calcinations at 773 K, the obtained MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -S samples were systematically characterized by a variety of spectroscopic and analytical techniques, including small- and large-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N 2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. The results indicate that the solvents play an essential role on the chemical microstructure, doping elemental states, and photocatalytic performance of catalysts. The MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -I samples have the lowest band gap of ca. 2.75 eV and strongest absorbance of visible light in the range of 400–600 nm. Among the MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -S photocatalysts, the MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -M catalysts show superior photocatalytic activity of hydrogen generation in methanol aqueous solution under visible light irradiation as compared to MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -E, MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -I, and commercial Degussa TiO 2 . This result could be attributed to the moderate C,N co-doping amounts on their developed mesoporous texture (pore size = 8.0 nm) and high surface area (107 m 2  g −1 ) of TiO 2 (crystallite size = 9.9 nm) in the MesoTiO 2−x−y C x N y -M catalysts

  3. Formation and vibrational structure of Si nano-clusters in ZnO matrix

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Garcia-Serrano, J. [Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Hidalgo (Mexico); Pal, U. [Universidad Autonoma de Puebla, Puebla (Mexico); Koshizaki, N.; Sasaki, T. [National Institute of Materials and Chemical Research, Ibaraki (Japan)

    2001-02-01

    We have studied the formation and vibrational structure of Si nano-clusters in ZnO matrix prepared by radio-frequency (r.f.) co-sputtering, and characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Infrared (IR) spectroscopy techniques. The composite films of Si/ZnO were grown o quartz substrates by co-sputtering of Si and ZnO targets. TEM images show a homogeneous distribution of clusters in the matrix with average size varied from 3.7 nm to 34 nm depending on the temperature of annealing. IR absorption measurements revealed the bands correspond to the modes of vibrations of Si{sub 3} in its triangular geometrical structure. By analysing the IR absorption and XPS spectra we found that the nano-clusters consist of a Si{sub 3} core and a SiO{sub x} cap layer. With the increase of annealing temperature, the vibrational states of Si changed from the triplet {sup 3}B1(C2{sub v}) and {sup 3}A'{sub 2}(D{sub 3h}) states to its singlet ground state {sup 1}A{sub 1}(C2{sub v}) and the oxidation state of Si in SiO{sub x} increased. The evolution of the local atomic structure of the Si nano-clusters with the variation of Si content in the film and with the variation of the temperature of annealing are discussed. [Spanish] Se estudia la formacion y estructura vibracional de nano-cumulos de Si en matriz de ZnO preparados por la tecnica de radio-frecuencia (r.f.) co-sputtering, y caracterizados por Microscopia Electronica de Transmision (TEM), Espectroscopia Fotoelectronica de rayos X (XPS) y Espectroscopia de Infrarrojo (IR). Las peliculas compositas de Si/ZnO fueron crecidas sobre sustratos de cuarzo mediante el co-sputtering de blancos de Si y ZnO. Las imagenes de TEM mostraron una distribucion homogenea de cumulos en la matriz con un tamano promedio de 3.7 nm a 34 nm dependiendo de la temperatura de tratamiento. Las mediciones de IR relevaron las bandas correspondientes a los modos de vibracion de Si{sub 3} en su estructura

  4. Electron microscopy and positron annihilation study of CdSe nanoclusters embedded in MgO

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Huis, M.A. van; Veen, A. van; Schut, H.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Kooi, B.J.; Hosson, J.Th.M. de

    2004-01-01

    CdSe nanoclusters are created in MgO by means of co-implantation of 280 keV, 1 x 10 16 Cd ions cm -2 and 210 keV, 1 x 10 16 Se ions cm -2 in single crystals of MgO(0 0 1) and subsequent thermal annealing at a temperature of 1300 K. The structural properties and the orientation relationship between the CdSe and the MgO are investigated using cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). The crystal structure of the nanoclusters depends on their size. The smallest nanoclusters with a size below 5 nm have the cubic rocksalt crystal structure. The larger nanoclusters have a different (most likely the cubic sphalerite) crystal structure. The defect evolution in the sample after ion implantation and during thermal annealing is investigated using Doppler broadening positron beam analysis (PBA). The defect evolution in samples co-implanted with Cd and Se is compared to the defect evolution in samples implanted with only Cd or only Se ions

  5. Electron microscopy and positron annihilation study of CdSe nanoclusters embedded in MgO

    Science.gov (United States)

    van Huis, M. A.; van Veen, A.; Schut, H.; Eijt, S. W. H.; Kooi, B. J.; De Hosson, J. Th. M.

    2004-06-01

    CdSe nanoclusters are created in MgO by means of co-implantation of 280 keV, 1 × 10 16 Cd ions cm -2 and 210 keV, 1 × 10 16 Se ions cm -2 in single crystals of MgO(0 0 1) and subsequent thermal annealing at a temperature of 1300 K. The structural properties and the orientation relationship between the CdSe and the MgO are investigated using cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). The crystal structure of the nanoclusters depends on their size. The smallest nanoclusters with a size below 5 nm have the cubic rocksalt crystal structure. The larger nanoclusters have a different (most likely the cubic sphalerite) crystal structure. The defect evolution in the sample after ion implantation and during thermal annealing is investigated using Doppler broadening positron beam analysis (PBA). The defect evolution in samples co-implanted with Cd and Se is compared to the defect evolution in samples implanted with only Cd or only Se ions.

  6. Microstrain engineered magnetic properties in Bi1-x Ca x Fe1-y Ti y O3-δ nanoparticles: deviation from Néel’s 1/d size-dependent magnetization behaviour

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mocherla, Pavana S. V.; Sahana, M. B.; Gopalan, R.; Ramachandra Rao, M. S.; Nanda, B. R. K.; Sudakar, C.

    2017-10-01

    Magnetization of antiferromagnetic nanoparticles is known to generally scale up inversely to their diameter (d) according to Néel’s model. Here we report a deviation from this conventional linear 1/d dependence, altered significantly by the microstrain, in Ca and Ti substituted BiFeO3 nanoparticles. Magnetic properties of microstrain-controlled Bi1-x Ca x Fe1-y Ti y O3-δ (y  =  0 and x  =  y) nanoparticles are analyzed as a function of their size ranging from 18 nm to 200 nm. A complex interdependence of doping concentration (x or y), annealing temperature (T), microstrain (ɛ) and particle size (d) is established. X-ray diffraction studies reveal a linear variation of microstrain with inverse particle size, 1/d nm-1 (i.e. ɛ · d  =  16.5 nm·%). A rapid increase in the saturation magnetization below a critical size d c ~ 35 nm, exhibiting a (1/d) α (α  ≈  2.6) dependence, is attributed to the influence of microstrain. We propose an empirical formula M \\propto (1/d)ɛ β (β  ≈  1.6) to highlight the contributions from both the size and microstrain towards the total magnetization in the doped systems. The magnetization observed in nanoparticles is thus, a result of the competing magnetic contribution from the terminated spin cycloid on the surface and counteracting microstrain present at a given size.

  7. HRTEM analysis on nanocrystalline BaTiO3 and PbTiO3: size effects on ferroelectric phase transition temperature

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bursill, L.A.; Jiang, B.; Peng, J.L.; Zhong, W.L.; Zhang, P.L.

    1997-01-01

    High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopic studies of nanocrystaline particles of BaTiO 3 and PbTiO 3 are reported. There are characteristic differences observed for BaTiO 3 prepared using sol gel (SG) and steric acid gel (SAG) methods. The former exhibit a critical size below which there is no paraelectric/ferroelectric phase transition, whereas BaTiO 3 prepared via the SAG route remained cubic for all conditions. The SAG preparations always showed chemical intergrowth defects whereas the SG preparations were single phase. Atomic resolution images of both varieties showed interesting surface steps and surface relaxations/reconstructions of some facets. Nanocrystalline PbTiO 3 prepared by the SG route remains tetragonal, albeit with decreasing c/a ratio, down to 25nm diameter. HRTEM observations of nanocrystalline PbTiO 3 are also presented. X-ray diffraction, dielectric and Raman scattering measurements also demonstrate pronounced size effects. The relationship between the observed nanostructures and size effects on the physical properties is discussed. 6 refs., 1 tab., 6 figs

  8. Study of nanocluster-assembled ZnO thin films by nanocluster-beam deposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Zhiwei; Lei, Wei; Zhang, Xiaobing [School of Electronic Science and Engieering, Southeast University, Nanjing (China); Tay, Beng Kang [School of Electronical and Electronic Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Nanyang (Singapore)

    2012-01-15

    Nanocluster-assembled ZnO thin films were obtained by nanocluster-beam deposition, in which nanoclusters were produced by a magnetron sputtering gas aggregation source. Two kinds of ZnO thin films were obtained using this method with the one grown under the on-line heating temperature of 700 C, and the other grown without on-line heating. Film microstructure and optical properties are investigated by various diagnostic techniques. It was found that both of film microstructure of ZnO thin films keep wurtzite structure as that of ZnO bulk materials. The averaged particle size for the film grown without on-line heating is around 6 nm, which is a little lower than that grown with the on-line heating. It was also found that as increasing the wavelength, both of the absorbance spectra for the films decrease sharply near ultra-visible to extend slowly to the visible and infrared wavelength range. For the film grown without on-line heating, the bandgap energy was estimated to 3.77 eV, while for the film grown with on-line heating, the bandgap energy was redshift to 3.71 eV. Similar behavior was also found for PL spectra analysis, where PL spectrum exhibited a peak centered at 3.31 eV without on-line heating, while it redshift to 3.20 eV with on-line heating. The mechanisms behind these behaviors were presented in this article. (copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  9. Directed laser processing of compacted powder mixtures Al2O3-TiO2-Y2O3

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Vlasova M.

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available The phase formation, microstructure and surface texture of laser treated ternary powder mixtures of Al2O3-TiO2-Y2O3 had been studied. Rapid high temperature heating and subsequent rapid cooling due to the directed movement of the laser beam forms concave ceramic tracks. Phase composition and microstructure of the tracks depends on the Al2O3 content and the TiO2/Y2O3 ratio of the initial mixtures. The main phases observed are Y3Al5O12, Y2Ti2O7, Al2O3 and Al2TiO5. Due to the temperature gradient in the heating zone, complex layered structures are formed. The tracks consist of three main layers: a thin surface layer, a layer of crystallization products of eutectic alloys, and a lower sintered layer. The thickness of the crystallization layer and the shrinkage of the irradiation zone depend on the amount of Y3Al5O12 and Al2O3 crystallized from the melt.

  10. Eosin Y-sensitized nanostructured SnO{sup 2}/TiO{sup 2} solar cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tai, Weon-Pil [Institute of Advanced Materials, Inha University, Yonghyun-dong, Nam-ku, Inchon 402-751 (South Korea); Inoue, Kozo [National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tosu, Saga 841-0052 (Japan)

    2003-02-01

    The photoelectrochemical behaviors of eosin Y (organic dye)-sensitized nanostructured SnO{sub 2}/TiO{sub 2} coupled and SnO{sub 2}+TiO{sub 2} composite solar cells were studied. The value of incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) in the coupled system was higher than the composite system. A maximum IPCE value, 63%, was reached at 525 nm wavelength in the coupled cell with 3.5-{mu}m-thick SnO{sub 2} and 7-{mu}m-thick TiO{sub 2}. The IPCE difference in the coupled and composite cells sensitized by eosin Y dye is discussed.

  11. Electron microscopy and positron annihilation study of CdSe nanoclusters embedded in MgO

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Huis, M.A. van E-mail: vanhuis@iri.tudelft.nl; Veen, A. van; Schut, H.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Kooi, B.J.; Hosson, J.Th.M. de

    2004-06-01

    CdSe nanoclusters are created in MgO by means of co-implantation of 280 keV, 1 x 10{sup 16} Cd ions cm{sup -2} and 210 keV, 1 x 10{sup 16} Se ions cm{sup -2} in single crystals of MgO(0 0 1) and subsequent thermal annealing at a temperature of 1300 K. The structural properties and the orientation relationship between the CdSe and the MgO are investigated using cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). The crystal structure of the nanoclusters depends on their size. The smallest nanoclusters with a size below 5 nm have the cubic rocksalt crystal structure. The larger nanoclusters have a different (most likely the cubic sphalerite) crystal structure. The defect evolution in the sample after ion implantation and during thermal annealing is investigated using Doppler broadening positron beam analysis (PBA). The defect evolution in samples co-implanted with Cd and Se is compared to the defect evolution in samples implanted with only Cd or only Se ions.

  12. Microstructural Analysis of TiAl x N y O z Coatings Fabricated by DC Reactive Sputtering

    Science.gov (United States)

    García-González, L.; Hernández-Torres, J.; Flores-Ramírez, N.; Martínez-Castillo, J.; García-Ramírez, P. J.; Muñoz-Saldaña, J.; Espinoza-Beltrán, F. J.

    2009-02-01

    TiAl x N y O z coatings were prepared by DC reactive sputtering on AISI D2 tool steel substrates, using a target of Ti-Al-O fabricated from a mixture of powders of Ti (22.60 wt.%), Al (24.77 wt.%), and O (52.63 wt.%). The coatings were deposited on substrates at room temperature in a reactive atmosphere of nitrogen and argon under a pressure of 8.5 × 10-3 mbar. X-ray diffraction, electron dispersive spectroscopy, Raman scattering, and nanoindentation techniques were employed to investigate the coatings. The results show that the increment in the nitrogen flow affects the structure and the mechanical properties of the coatings. The sample with the lowest nitrogen flow presented the highest hardness (10.5 GPa) and the Young’s modulus (179.5 GPa). The hardness of the coatings TiAl x N y O z as a function of crystalline grain size shows a behavior consistent with the Hall-Petch relation.

  13. Enhanced piezoelectricity in plastically deformed nearly amorphous Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20}-BaTiO{sub 3} nanocomposites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yu, Dan; Zhao, Minglei, E-mail: zhaoml@sdu.edu.cn; Wang, Chunlei; Wang, Lihai; Su, Wenbin; Gai, Zhigang; Wang, Chunming; Li, Jichao; Zhang, Jialiang [School of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials, Shandong University, Jinan 250100 (China)

    2016-07-18

    Bulk Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20}-BaTiO{sub 3} (BTO-BT) nanocomposites are fabricated through the high-temperature interfacial reaction between nanometer-sized BaTiO{sub 3} particles and melting Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20}. Although the obtained BTO-BT nanocomposites are nearly amorphous and display very weak ferroelectricity, they exhibit relatively strong piezoelectricity without undergoing the electrical poling process. The volume fraction of crystalline Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20} is reduced to less than 10%, and the piezoelectric constant d{sub 33} is enhanced to 13 pC/N. Only the presence of the macroscopic polar amorphous phases can explain this unusual thermal stable piezoelectricity. Combining the results from X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and thermal annealing, it can be confirmed that the formation of macroscopic polar amorphous phases is closely related to the inhomogeneous plastic deformation of the amorphous Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20} during the sintering process. These results highlight the key role of plastically deformed amorphous Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20} in the Bi{sub 12}TiO{sub 20}-based polar composites, and the temperature gradient driven coupling between the plastic strain gradient and polarization in amorphous phases is the main poling mechanism for this special type of bulk polar material.

  14. Optical studies of cobalt implanted rutile TiO2 (110) surfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Joshi, Shalik Ram; Padmanabhan, B.; Chanda, Anupama; Mishra, Indrani; Malik, V.K.; Mishra, N.C.; Kanjilal, D.; Varma, Shikha

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • The present study displays formation of nanostructures after Co implantation on TiO 2 surfaces. • Preferential sputtering leads to the creation of oxygen vacancies on the surface. • A large enhancement in visible light absorbance (nearly 5 times compared to pristine) is observed. • Creation of self-organized nanostructures and Ti 3+ oxygen vacancies promote photoabsorption. • Formation of Co-nanoclusters and Co–Ti–O phase play concerted role in enhancing photo-absorption. - Abstract: Present study investigates the photoabsorption properties of single crystal rutile TiO 2 (110) surfaces after they have been implanted with low fluences of cobalt ions. The surfaces, after implantation, demonstrate fabrication of nanostructures and anisotropic nano-ripple patterns. Creation of oxygen vacancies (Ti 3+ states), development of cobalt nano-clusters as well as band gap modifications have also been observed. Results presented here demonstrate that fabrication of self organized nanostructures, upon implantation, along with the development of oxygen vacancies and ligand field transitions of cobalt ion promote the enhancement of photo-absorbance in both UV (∼2 times) and visible (∼5 times) regimes. These investigations on nanostructured TiO 2 surfaces can be important for photo-catalysis.

  15. Shell model for REO{sub x} nanoclusters in amorphous SiO{sub 2}: charge trapping and electroluminescence quenching

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tiagulskyi, S.; Nazarov, A.; Tyagulskii, I.; Lysenko, V. [Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Prospekt Nauki 41, 03028 Kiev (Ukraine); Rebohle, L.; Lehmann, J.; Skorupa, W. [Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden Rossendorf e.V., POB 510119, 01314 Dresden (Germany)

    2012-06-15

    In this work charge trapping and electroluminescence (EL) quenching in rare-earth (RE) implanted SiO{sub 2} on Si as a function of injected charge into the dielectric were studied. The blocking of the luminescent REO{sub X} nanoclusters from the hot exciting electrons by negative charge trapping in a defect region (shell) located in the vicinity of the REO{sub X} nanocluster/SiO{sub 2} interface is considered as the main mechanism of EL quenching for small size (up to 10 nm) REO{sub X} nanoclusters. It is suggested that the increase of the nanoclusters size results in disordering of the SiO{sub 2} matrix but in a decrease of local blocking for excitation of the luminescent centers. (copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  16. Efectos de fotodegradación propiciados por recubrimientos de TiO2 y TiO2-SiO2 obtenidos por Sol-Gel

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rodriguez Paez, J. E.

    2008-10-01

    Full Text Available Photodegradation effect is widely used for water purification this contributes to preservation and protection of environment. Titanium oxide, (TiO2, is a compound that shows up this phenomenon. TiO2 is a semiconductor which may degradate pollutants through of a oxidation process. It permit the treatment of the residual water. It this work we has conformed coatings of TiO2 y TiO2-SiO2, utilized Sol-Gel method and investigated the degradation of the blue Methylene. For this, we introduced these coatings in the blue methylene solution which was illuminated with radiation of λ=365nm to activate its photocatilist properties. The structures of the coatings were characterized using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS.El efecto de fotodegradación es ampliamente utilizado para la purificación del agua, acción que contribuye a la conservación y protección del medio ambiente; el óxido de titanio (TiO2 es uno de los semiconductores que pueden degradar contaminantes mediante procesos de oxidación, lo que lo hace apto para el tratamiento de aguas residuales. En este trabajo se conformaron recubrimientos de TiO2 y TiO2-SiO2, por el método Sol-Gel, y se estudio la degradación que experimentaba una solución de azul de metileno al introducirle estos recubrimientos e iluminarlos con una radiación de λ=365nm para activar su propiedad fotocatalítica. Los recubrimientos fueron caracterizados microestructuralmente utilizando Microscopía de Fuerza Atómica (MFA y Espectroscopía de Fotoelectrones de rayos X (XPS. Los resultados obtenidos de los ensayos de fotodegradación indican que los recubrimientos con una cantidad pequeña de silicio presentan un mayor efecto de fotodegradación indicando que el silicio puede generar puntos de anclaje que facilitan las reacciones de fotocatálisis. Por otro lado, la formación de centros activos, constituidos principalmente por carbono, también contribuyeron al desarrollo de estas

  17. TiO2 nanoparticles disrupt cell adhesion and the architecture of cytoskeletal networks of human osteoblast-like cells in a size dependent manner.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ibrahim, Mohamed; Schoelermann, Julia; Mustafa, Kamal; Cimpan, Mihaela R

    2018-04-30

    Human exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO 2 ) is increasing. An internal source of nano-TiO 2 is represented by titanium-based orthopedic and dental implants can release nanoparticles (NPs) upon abrasion. Little is known about how the size of NPs influences their interaction with cytoskeletal protein networks and the functional/homeostatic consequences that might follow at the implant-bone interface with regard to osteoblasts. We investigated the effects of size of anatase nano-TiO 2 on SaOS-2 human osteoblast-like cells exposed to clinically relevant concentrations (0.05, 0.5, 5 mg/L) of 5 and 40 nm spherical nano-TiO 2 . Cell viability and proliferation, adhesion, spread and migration were assessed, as well as the orientation of actin and microtubule cytoskeletal networks. The phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (p-FAK Y397 ) and the expression of vinculin in response to nano-TiO 2 were also assessed. Treatment with nano-TiO 2 disrupted the actin and microtubule cytoskeletal networks leading to morphological modifications of SaOS-2 cells. The phosphorylation of p-FAK Y397 and the expression of vinculin were also modified depending on the particle size, which affected cell adhesion. Consequently, the cell migration was significantly impaired in the 5 nm-exposed cells compared to unexposed cells. The present work shows that the orientation of cytoskeletal networks and the focal adhesion proteins and subsequently the adhesion, spread and migration of SaOS-2 cells were affected by the selected nano-TiO 2 in a size dependent manner. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Synthesis of nanocrystalline TiO 2 thin films by liquid phase ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    A transparent, high purity titanium dioxide thin film composed of densely packed nanometer sized grains has been successfully deposited on a glass substrate at 30°C from an aqueous solution of TiO2–HF with the addition of boric acid as a scavenger by liquid phase deposition technique. From X-ray diffraction ...

  19. Reduced sintering of mass-selected Au clusters on SiO2 by alloying with Ti: an aberration-corrected STEM and computational study

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Niu, Yubiao; Schlexer, Philomena; Sebök, Béla

    2018-01-01

    Au nanoparticles represent the most remarkable example of a size effect in heterogeneous catalysis. However, a major issue hindering the use of Au nanoparticles in technological applications is their rapid sintering. We explore the potential of stabilizing Au nanoclusters on SiO2 by alloying them...... in the Au/Ti clusters, but in line with the model computational investigation, Au atoms were still present on the surface. Thus size-selected, deposited nanoalloy Au/Ti clusters appear to be promising candidates for sustainable gold-based nanocatalysis....

  20. SINTESIS Y CARACTERIZACIÓN DE BENTONITA MODIFICADA CON ESPECIES DE TiO2 y Fe-TiO2 OBTENIDAS DEL MINERAL ILMENITA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Juan Torres

    2014-07-01

    Full Text Available Se sintetizó una serie de sólidos nanoestructurados, obtenidos por la intercalación de nanopartículas de TiO2 y Fe-TiO2 en los espacios interlaminares de un mineral de arcilla esmectítico. Los nuevos materiales se prepararon mediante la modificación simultánea de dos minerales naturales: una bentonita y una ilmenita. Los materiales obtenidos se caracterizaron por fluorescencia de rayos X (FRX, espectroscopía infrarroja (IR, difracción de rayos X (DRX, microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM y sortometría de nitrógeno. Los resultados del análisis químico (FRX confirmaron claramente la incorporación de titanio y de hierro en los materiales sintetizados. Los análisis por DRX, SEM y sortometría de nitrógeno verificaron la modificación del mineral de arcilla por incorporación de especies de dióxido de titanio, demostrando la generación de estructuras mesoporosas delaminadas o exfoliadas con incremento en los valores de área superficial y porosidad controlada.

  1. Effect of nano-TiO{sub 2} particles size on the corrosion resistance of alkyd coating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Deyab, M.A., E-mail: hamadadeiab@yahoo.com; Keera, S.T.

    2014-08-01

    The coating system containing various sizes (∼10, 50, 100, 150 nm) of nano-TiO{sub 2} were prepared and investigated for corrosion protection of carbon steel in 1.0 M H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} using polarization, EIS and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. It was found that nano-TiO{sub 2} particles improved the corrosion resistance of alkyd coatings. The corrosion resistance occurs via physical adhesion on the metal surface. O{sub 2} and H{sub 2}O permeability of coating decreased with decrease in the nano-TiO{sub 2} size. The inhibition efficiency was found to increase with decreasing the size of nano-TiO{sub 2} and with decreasing the temperature. - Highlights: • Nano-TiO{sub 2} coating were prepared and used for corrosion protection of C-steel. • Nano-TiO{sub 2} particles in coating are effective to improve the corrosion resistance. • Nano-TiO{sub 2} coating inhibit both anodic and cathodic reactions. • Corrosion inhibition efficiency increases with decrease in the size of nano-TiO{sub 2}. • O{sub 2} and H{sub 2}O permeability of coating decreased with decrease in the nano-TiO{sub 2} size.

  2. Progress of studies on preparation of TiO2 photocatalysts with sol-gel auto igniting synthesis

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Di; Shi, Zaifeng; Zhang, Xiaopeng; Xinghui, Wu

    2017-11-01

    In this article, influencing factors on the kinetics of the process of Sol-gel Auto igniting Synthesis (SAS) which is an advanced technology for preparing nanometer particles of inorganic materials were reviewed. The studies on preparing of nanometer TiO2 photocatalysts with SAS were focused. It was concluded that SAS will play an important role in practical preparing of high-pure nanometer TiO2 powder, and as a technical support, preparation of titania TiO2 from titanic iron ore with SAS is feasible and practicable.

  3. Experimental measurements of U24Py nanocluster behavior in aqueous solution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Flynn, Shannon L.; Szymanowski, Jennifer E.S.; Fein, Jeremy B. [Univ. of Notre Dame, IN (United States). Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences; Dembowski, Mateusz [Univ. of Notre Dame, IN (United States). Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry; Burns, Peter C. [Univ. of Notre Dame, IN (United States). Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences; Univ. of Notre Dame, IN (United States). Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

    2016-07-01

    Uranyl peroxide nanoclusters may impact the mobility and partitioning of uranium at contaminated sites and could be used in the isolation of uranium during the reprocessing of nuclear waste. Their behavior in aqueous systems must be better understood to predict the environmental fate of uranyl peroxide nanoclusters and for their use in engineered systems. The aqueous stability of only one uranyl peroxide nanocluster, U60 (K{sub 16}Li{sub 44}[UO{sub 2}(O{sub 2})OH]{sub 60}), has been studied to date [Flynn, S. L., Szymanowski, J. E. S., Gao, Y., Liu, T., Burns, P. C., Fein, J. B.: Experimental measurements of U60 nanocluster stability in aqueous solution. Geochemica et Cosmochimica Acta 156, 94-105 (2015)]. In this study, we measured the aqueous stability of a second uranyl peroxide nanocluster, U24Py (Na{sub 30}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 24}(O{sub 2}){sub 24}(HP{sub 2}O{sub 7}){sub 6}(H{sub 2}P{sub 2}O{sub 7}){sub 6}]), in batch systems as a function of time, pH, and nanocluster concentration, and then compared the aqueous behavior of U24Py to U60 to determine whether the size and morphology differences result in differences in their aqueous behaviors. Systems containing U24Py nanoclusters took over 30 days to achieve steady-state concentrations of monomeric U, Na, and P, illustrating slower reaction kinetics than parallel U60 systems. Furthermore, U24Py exhibited lower stability in solution than U60, with an average of 72% of the total mass in each nanocluster suspension being associated with the U24Py nanocluster, whereas 97% was associated with the U60 nanocluster in parallel experiments [Flynn, S. L., Szymanowski, J. E. S., Gao, Y., Liu, T., Burns, P. C., Fein, J. B.: Experimental measurements of U60 nanocluster stability in aqueous solution. Geochemica et Cosmochimica Acta 156, 94-105 (2015)]. The measurements from the batch experiments were used to calculate ion activity product (IAP) values for the reaction between the U24Py nanocluster and its constituent monomeric

  4. Microestructura de Al2O3/TZP codopado con Fe2O3 y TiO2 fabricado por reacción (RBAO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jiménez, M.

    2003-02-01

    Full Text Available Reaction-bonded 80 vol% Al2O3/TZP (2 mol% Y2O3-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals composites co-doped with 1 vol% Fe2O3 and 1 vol% TiO2 have been produced, and then presureless sintered (1450 ºC, 60 min or sinter-forged (20 MPa, 1200 ºC, 60 min. The resulting microstructures have been characterized using scanning electron microscopy. Both types of materials are dense, with a fine and homogeneous dual microstructure consisting of Al2O3 and TZP grains without intermediate grain boundary phases. Sinter-forged composites exhibit a very narrow pore size distribution, essentially smaller than the grain size of the alumina and zirconia phases. Co-doping promotes the sintering of alumina at lower temperatures, while still retains a fine grain size due to the presence of the dispersed zirconia phase. First results on presureless sintered RBAO materials show a fracture strength higher than in conventionally sintered and sinter-forged composites.Se han fabricado compuestos de 80% vol. Al2O3/TZP (ZrO2 estabilizada con 2% mol Y2O3 codopados con 1% vol. Fe2O3 y 1% vol. TiO2 mediante la tecnología RBAO (“Reaction Bonding of Aluminum Oxide”, que se han sinterizado libremente (1450 ºC, 60 min y bajo carga uniaxial (20 MPa, 1200 ºC, 60 min. Se ha caracterizado la microestructura mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido. Ambos materiales son densos con una microestructura homogénea formada por granos de alúmina y de circona, sin fases en juntas de grano. En el caso de la sinterización bajo carga, la distribución del tamaño de los poros es muy estrecha, y esencialmente menor que las correspondientes a los granos de Al2O3 y TZP. El codopado promueve la sinterización de la alúmina, mientras que los granos dispersos de circona inhiben su crecimiento de grano. Los ensayos preliminares de flexión en cuatro puntos realizados sobre los materiales sinterizados sin carga indican una resistencia a la fractura superior a la que presentan los

  5. Preparation and photocatalytic activity of B, Y co-doped nanosized TiO_2 catalyst

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    石中亮; 刘富梅; 姚淑华

    2010-01-01

    The catalysts of un-doped, single-doped and co-doped titanium dioxide (TiO2) powders were prepared by sol-gel method with Ti(OC4H9)4 as a raw material. The photocatalytic decomposition of phenol in aqueous solution under UV light was used as a probe reaction to evaluate their photocatalytic activities. The effects of B, Y co-doping on the crystallite sizes, crystal pattern, surface composition, and optical property of the catalyst were investigated by thermogravimetric differential thermal analysis, X-ray d...

  6. Effect of rutile TiO{sub 2} on the photocatalytic performance of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/brookite-TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} photocatalyst for NO decomposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Huihui, E-mail: lihh@lzu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory for Magnetism Magnetic Materials of the Ministry of Education, Lanzhou University, 222 south Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000 (China); Wu, Xiaoyong [Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070 (China); Yin, Shu [Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8577 (Japan); Katsumata, Kenichi [Photocatalysis International Research Center, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510 (Japan); Wang, Yuhua [Key Laboratory for Magnetism Magnetic Materials of the Ministry of Education, Lanzhou University, 222 south Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000 (China)

    2017-01-15

    Graphical abstract: g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/rutile-brookite TiO{sub 2-x}Ny forms a Z-scheme photocatalytic system, which shows improvement on the photocatalytic activity than that of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/single brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y}. - Highlights: • g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/rutile-brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} forms a Z-scheme photocatalytic system. • Photogenerated electrons can efficiently transfer from rutile TiO{sub 2} to g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. • Single brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} shows lower photo-utilization efficiency than rutile-brookite mixed one. • DeNO{sub x} activities of brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} hybrids decrease with g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} amount increase. - Abstract: Novel g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/rutile-brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} composite photocatalysts were fabricated through a facile solvothermal approach. The effect of rutile phase TiO{sub 2} with brookite TiO{sub 2} and g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} on the photocatalytic activity of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/nitrogen-doped TiO{sub 2} composite was studied. The photocatalytic performance of the photocatalyst was evaluated by measuring the degradation of NO gas under visible and UV light irradiation. It is suggested that g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/rutile-brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} forms a Z-scheme photocatalytic system, which shows improvement on the photocatalytic activity than that of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/single brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y}. By importing rutile phase TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y}, the photogenerated electrons can efficiently transfer from rutile TiO{sub 2} to g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}, which results in the separation of electron and hole pairs, enhancing the photocatalytic ability. However, single brookite TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub y} can not remove the photogenerated electrons efficiently and the photocatalytic performances of composites decrease with g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} amount increase.

  7. Faceted titania nanocrystals doped with indium oxide nanoclusters as a superior candidate for sacrificial hydrogen evolution without any noble-metal cocatalyst under solar irradiation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Amoli, Vipin; Sibi, Malayil Gopalan; Banerjee, Biplab; Anand, Mohit; Maurya, Abhayankar; Farooqui, Saleem Akhtar; Bhaumik, Asim; Sinha, Anil Kumar

    2015-01-14

    Development of unique nanoheterostructures consisting of indium oxide nanoclusters like species doped on the TiO2 nanocrystals surfaces with {101} and {001} exposed facets, resulted in unprecedented sacrificial hydrogen production (5.3 mmol h(-1) g(-1)) from water using methanol as a sacrificial agent, under visible light LED source and AM 1.5G solar simulator (10.3 mmol h(-1) g(-1)), which is the highest H2 production rate ever reported for titania based photocatalysts, without using any noble metal cocatalyst. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of the nanostructures reveals the presence of Ti-O-In and In-O-In like species on the surface of nanostructures. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) elemental mapping and EDX spectroscopy techniques combined with transmission electron microscope evidenced the existence of nanoheterostructures. XPS, EELS, EDX, and HAADF-STEM tools collectively suggest the presence of indium oxide nanoclusters like species on the surface of TiO2 nanostructures. These indium oxide nanocluster doped TiO2 (In2O3/T{001}) single crystals with {101} and {001} exposed facets exhibited 1.3 times higher visible light photocatalytic H2 production than indium oxide nanocluster doped TiO2 nanocrystals with only {101}facets (In2O3/T{101}) exposed. The remarkable photocatalytic activity of the obtained nanoheterostructures is attributed to the combined synergetic effect of indium oxide nanoclusters interacting with the titania surface, enhanced visible light response, high crystallinity, and unique structural features.

  8. Synthesis of Y2O3 particle enhanced Ni/TiC composite on TC4 Ti alloy by laser cladding%TC4钛合金表面激光熔覆法制备Y2O3颗粒增强Ni/TiC复合涂层

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    张可敏; 邹建新; 李军; 于治水; 王慧萍

    2012-01-01

    A Y2O3 particle enhanced Ni/TiC composite coating was fabricated in-situ on a TC4 Ti alloy by laser surface cladding.The phase component,microstructure,composition distribution and properties of the composite layer were investigated.The composite layer has graded microstructures and compositions,due to the fast melting followed by rapid solidification and cooling during laser cladding.The TiC powders are completely dissolved into the melted layer during melting and segregated as fine dendrites when solidified.The size of TiC dendrites decreases with increasing depth.Y2O3 fine particles distribute in the whole clad layer.The Y2O3 particle enhanced Ni/TiC composite layer has a quite uniform hardness along depth with a maximum value of HV1380,which is 4 times higher than the initial hardness.The wear resistance of the Ti alloy is significantly improved after laser cladding due to the high hardness of the composite coating.%采用激光熔覆法在TC4钛合金表面原位制备Y2O3颗粒增强Ni/TiC复合涂层,研究涂层的相组成、微结构、成分分布及性能.结果表明,复合涂层内的微结构和成分在深度方向具有分层现象,这主要是由激光熔覆过程的快速熔凝和冷却过程所致.在激光熔覆过程中,TiC粉末完全熔化并在凝固过程中析出为细小枝晶,这些TiC枝晶的尺寸随着深度的增加而减小,而Y2O3颗粒则分布在整个重熔层中.Y2O3颗粒增强Ni/TiC复合涂层具有较均匀的硬度,其最高值约为HV1380,比基体高4倍以上.由于复合涂层具有高的硬度,钛合金经过激光熔覆后其耐磨性得到大幅度提高.

  9. Functional BaTiO{sub 3} nanostructures immobilized onto si-based substrates using sol–gel and reverse micelle techniques

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mamana, Nadia, E-mail: nadia@fceia.unr.edu.ar; Pellegri, Nora [CONICET, FCEIyA, UNR, Laboratorio de Materiales Cerámicos IFIR (Argentina)

    2015-03-15

    The current tendency toward miniaturization of electronic devices has driven the interest in developing ferroelectric materials in low dimensions. In this work, for the preparation of lead-free BaTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles, we used a combination of the sol–gel method with the reverse micelles techniques. Moreover, previously to the thermal treatment, it was necessary to remove the surfactant. For this stage, oleic acid was used to stabilize the nanoparticles in the solution. Then, nanometer-sized particles were deposited on different substrates (Si, Pt/TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2}/Si). The influence of different modes of deposition on particle size, degree of agglomeration, was analyzed. The mean particle size was 10 nm. Finally, the deposition of BaTiO{sub 3} particles on a conductive substrate such as the wafer of platinum (Pt/TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2}/Si) was confirmed by several AFM techniques.

  10. TiO_2 hierarchical hollow microspheres with different size for application as anodes in high-performance lithium storage

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang, Xiaobing; Meng, Qiuxia; Wang, Yuanyuan; Liang, Huijun; Bai, Zhengyu; Wang, Kui; Lou, Xiangdong; Cai, Bibo; Yang, Lin

    2016-01-01

    Graphical abstract: In the application of lithium-ion batteries, the influences of microsphere sizes are more significant than the secondary nanoparticles size and crystallinity of TiO_2-HSs for their transfer resistance and cycling performance, so that the bigger sizes of TiO_2-HSs can retain high reversible capacities after 30 recycles. - Highlights: • Hierarchical hollow microspheres have size-effect in the application of lithium ion battery. • The microsphere sizes can significantly affect the cycling capacities of TiO_2. • The nanoparticles size affect the initial discharge capacity and lithium ion diffusion. • Controlled microsphere size is more significant for improving TiO_2 cycling capacities. - Abstract: Nowadays, the safety issue has greatly hindered the development of large capacity lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), especially in electric vehicles applications. TiO_2 is a kind of potential anode candidate for improving the safety of LIBs. However, it still needs to understand how to improve the performance of TiO_2 anode in the practical applications. Herein, we design a contrast experiment by using three sizes of TiO_2 hierarchical hollow microspheres (TiO_2-HSs). The research results indicated that the cycling performance of TiO_2-HSs anode can be affected by the size of microspheres, and the nanoparticles size of microspheres and crystallinity of TiO_2 can affect their initial discharge capacity and lithium ion diffusion. And, the influence of microspheres size is more significant. This may provide a new strategy for improving the lithium-ion storage property of TiO_2 anode material in the practical applications.

  11. On the formation and stability of Y-Ti-O nanoparticles in ODS alloys

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sundar, C.S.

    2012-01-01

    The thermal and radiation stability of Y-Ti-O nanoparticles in oxide dispersion strengthened steels is a topic of interest, given that these nanoparticles bestow the crucial high temperature creep strength, and these ferritic alloys are candidate materials for cladding and structural materials for fast and fusion reactors. In addition, there is also interest in obtaining a basic understanding of the various issues, such as the role of alloying element Ti, on the formation of uniform sized and small nanoparticles in these alloys that are formed using the powder metallurgy route of ball milling followed by consolidation using hot extrusion

  12. Diffusion of Y and Ti/Zr in bcc iron: A first principles study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Murali, D.; Panigrahi, B.K.; Valsakumar, M.C.; Sundar, C.S.

    2011-01-01

    The diffusion of yttrium plays an important role in the kinetics of formation of oxide nanoclusters in oxide dispersion strengthened alloys. Also, the diffusivity of minor alloying elements like Ti and Zr are of special interest as they are crucial for fine dispersion of oxide nanoclusters in the ferritic matrix. These solute atoms occupy substitutional sites in bcc Fe. The diffusion coefficients of these solute atoms were calculated using Le Claire’s nine frequency model involving the vacancy mechanism. We have done detailed density functional theory calculation of the interaction of these solute atoms with vacancies (□) and estimated various migration energy barriers of the vacancies in the presence of these solute atoms using nudged elastic band method. Strikingly, compared with Zr and Ti, Y shows a very large relaxation towards first neighbor vacancy resulting in strong binding with the vacancy. The Y-□ binding energy of 1.45 eV is almost double that of Zr-□ binding energy of 0.78 eV. We have also compared the calculated diffusion coefficients of these solute atoms with the experimental values.

  13. Ab initio study of structural, electronic, optical, and vibrational properties of Zn x S y ( x + y = 2 to 5) nanoclusters

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yadav, P. S.; Pandey, D. K.; Agrawal, S.; Agrawal, B. K.

    2010-03-01

    An ab initio study of the stability, structural, electronic. and optical properties has been performed for 46 zinc sulfide nanoclusters Zn x S y ( x + y = n = 2 to 5). Five out of them are seen to be unstable as their vibrational frequencies are found to be imaginary. A B3LYP-DFT/6-311G(3df) method is employed to optimize the geometries and a TDDFT method is used for the study of the optical properties. The binding energies (BE), HOMO-LUMO gaps and the bond lengths have been obtained for all the clusters. For the ZnS2, ZnS3, and ZnS4 nanoclusters, our stable structures are seen to be different from those obtained earlier by using the effective core potentials. We have also considered the zero point energy (ZPE) corrections ignored by the earlier workers. For a fixed value of n, we designate the most stable structure the one, which has maximum final binding energy per atom. The adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials (IP) and electron affinities (EA), charges on the atoms, dipole moments, optical properties, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities, relative infrared intensities, and Raman scattering activities have been investigated for the most stable structures. The nanoclusters containing large number of S atoms for each n is found to be most stable. The HOMO-LUMO gap decreases from n = 2-3 and then increases above n = 3. The IP and EA both fluctuate with the cluster size n. The optical absorption is quite weak in visible region but strong in the ultraviolet region in most of the nanoclusters except a few. The optical absorption spectrum or electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) is unique for every nanocluster and may be used to characterize a specific nanocluster. The growth of most stable nanoclusters may be possible in the experiments.

  14. Improved Light Conversion Efficiency Of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell By Dispersing Submicron-Sized Granules Into The Nano-Sized TiO2 Layer

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Song S.A.

    2015-06-01

    Full Text Available In this work, TiO2 nanoparticles and submicron-sized granules were synthesized by a hydrothermal method and spray pyrolysis, respectively. Submicron-sized granules were dispersed into the nano-sized TiO2 layer to improve the light conversion efficiency. Granules showed better light scattering, but lower in terms of the dye-loading quantity and recombination resistance compared with nanoparticles. Consequently, the nano-sized TiO2 layer had higher cell efficiency than the granulized TiO2 layer. When dispersed granules into the nanoparticle layer, the light scattering was enhanced without the loss of dye-loading quantities. The dispersion of granulized TiO2 led to increase the cell efficiency up to 6.51%, which was about 5.2 % higher than that of the electrode consisting of only TiO2 nanoparticles. Finally, the optimal hydrothermal temperature and dispersing quantity of granules were found to be 200°C and 20 wt%, respectively.

  15. Recubrimientos decorativos de Ti, TiN y TiO2 sobre vidrio, depositados en vacío mediante pulverización por arco eléctrico

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Straumal, B.

    2001-04-01

    Full Text Available In a vacuum arc discharge, highly ionised species are formed, which permits an effective control of the deposition process and, particularly, to deposit Ti, TiN and TiO2 coatings on non-conducting materials like glass. Moreover, this technique allows us to position a mask between the substrates and the sheets to be coated. Another advantage of the vacuum arc technology is the low substrate temperature during the deposition. Data on the roughness, composition and corrosion resistance in architectural glass mask-coated with titanium nitride and oxide are presented and analysed in this work. A comparative analysis is made with reactive direct current sputtering and plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition techniques.La técnica de pulverización por arco eléctrico en vacío permite un control eficaz del proceso de deposición, ya que la temperatura del sustrato permanece baja durante dicho proceso. Además, mediante esta técnica pueden llevarse a cabo recubrimientos sobre superficies no conductoras y resulta posible la utilización de máscaras de plástico, colocadas entre la fuente y el sustrato a recubrir. En este trabajo se han llevado a cabo recubrimientos de Ti, TiN y TiO2 sobre vidrio arquitectónico. Los recubrimientos se han realizado con y sin dibujos, aplicados a través de máscaras. Se han estudiado algunas características de estos recubrimientos, como son la rugosidad, composición y resistencia contra la corrosión. Los análisis se han llevado a cabo mediante técnicas de microscopía de fuerza atómica, espectroscopía Auger y ensayos electroquímicos. Finalmente, se ha realizado un análisis comparativo con resultados obtenidos mediante otras técnicas de deposición.

  16. Particle Size Effects of TiO2 Layers on the Solar Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ming-Jer Jeng

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Large particle sizes having a strong light scattering lead to a significantly decreased surface area and small particle sizes having large surface area lack light-scattering effect. How to combine large and small particle sizes together is an interesting work for achieving higher solar efficiency. In this work, we investigate the solar performance influence of the dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs by the multiple titanium oxide (TiO2 layers with different particle sizes. It was found that the optimal TiO2 thickness depends on the particle sizes of TiO2 layers for achieving the maximum efficiency. The solar efficiency of DSSCs prepared by triple TiO2 layers with different particle sizes is higher than that by double TiO2 layers for the same TiO2 thickness. The choice of particle size in the bottom layer is more important than that in the top layer for achieving higher solar efficiency. The choice of the particle sizes in the middle layer depends on the particle sizes in the bottom and top layers. The mixing of the particle sizes in the middle layer is a good choice for achieving higher solar efficiency.

  17. Optical properties of Ag nanoclusters formed by irradiation and annealing of SiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2}:Ag thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Güner, S., E-mail: sguner@fatih.edu.tr [Department of Physics, Fatih University, 34500 Büyükçekmece, İstanbul (Turkey); Budak, S. [Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Alabama A and M University, Huntsville, AL 35810 (United States); Gibson, B. [Department of Physics, UAH, Huntsville, AL 35899 (United States); Ila, D. [Department of Chemistry and Physics, Fayetteville St. University, Fayetteville, NC 28301 (United States)

    2014-08-15

    Highlights: • Fabrication of films through the Reactive Electron Beam deposition technique. • Perfect and reproducible Ag nanoclustered host matrix. • Potential technological applicability in thermoelectric devices. - Abstract: We have deposited five periodic SiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} + Ag multi-nano-layered films on fused silica substrates using physical vapor deposition technique. The co-deposited SiO{sub 2}:Ag layers were 2.7–5 nm and SiO{sub 2} buffer layers were 1–15 nm thick. Total thickness was between 30 and 105 nm. Different concentrations of Ag, ranging from 1.5 to 50 molecular% with respect to SiO{sub 2} were deposited to determine relevant rates of nanocluster formation and occurrence of interaction between nanoclusters. Using interferometry as well as in situ thickness monitoring, we measured the thickness of the layers. The concentration of Ag in SiO{sub 2} was measured with Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). To nucleate Ag nanoclusters, 5 MeV cross plane Si ion bombardments were performed with fluence varying between 5 × 10{sup 14} and 1 × 10{sup 16} ions/cm{sup 2} values. Optical absorption spectra were recorded in the range of 200–900 nm in order to monitor the Ag nanocluster formation in the thin films. Thermal annealing treatment at different temperatures was applied as second method to form varying size of nanoclusters. The physical properties of formed super lattice were criticized for thermoelectric applications.

  18. Influence of size and shape of sub-micrometer light scattering centers in ZnO-assisted TiO2 photoanode for dye-sensitized solar cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pham, Trang T. T.; Mathews, Nripan; Lam, Yeng-Ming; Mhaisalkar, Subodh

    2018-03-01

    Sub-micrometer cavities have been incorporated in the TiO2 photoanode of dye-sensitized solar cell to enhance its optical property with light scattering effect. These are large pores of several hundred nanometers in size and scatter incident light due to the difference refraction index between the scattering center and the surrounding materials, according to Mie theory. The pores are created using polystyrene (PS) or zinc oxide (ZnO) templates reported previously which resulted in ellipsoidal and spherical shapes, respectively. The effect of size and shape of scattering center was modeled using a numerical analysis finite-difference time-domain (FDTD). The scattering cross-section was not affected significantly with different shapes if the total displacement volume of the scattering center is comparable. Experiments were carried out to evaluate the optical property with varying size of ZnO templates. Photovoltaic effect of dye-sensitized solar cells made from these ZnO-assisted films were investigated with incident-photon-to-current efficiency to understand the effect of scattering center size on the enhancement of absorption. With 380 nm macropores incorporated, the power conversion efficiency has increased by 11% mostly thanks to the improved current density, while 170 nm and 500 nm macropores samples did not have increment in sufficiently wide range of absorbing wavelengths.

  19. Visible light assisted photodecolorization of eosin-Y in aqueous solution using hesperidin modified TiO2 nanoparticles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vignesh, K.; Suganthi, A.; Rajarajan, M.; Sakthivadivel, R.

    2012-03-01

    Hesperidin a flavanoid, modified TiO2 nanoparticles (Hes-TiO2) was synthesized to improve the visible light driven photocatalytic performance of TiO2. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis-DRS), FT-IR, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The photocatalytic activity of Hes-TiO2 was investigated based on the decolorization of eosin-Y under visible light irradiation. Hes-TiO2 showed high efficiency for the decolorization of eosin-Y. The influences of various reaction parameters like effect of pH, catalyst dosage and initial dye concentration on the photocatalytic efficiency were investigated. The adsorption of eosin-Y on Hes-TiO2 was found favorable by the Langmuir approach. The removal percentage of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was determined to evaluate the mineralization of eosin-Y during photodecolorization. Based on the intermediates obtained in the GC-MS spectroscopic technique, a probable degradation mechanism has been proposed.

  20. Visible light assisted photodecolorization of eosin-Y in aqueous solution using hesperidin modified TiO2 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Vignesh, K.; Suganthi, A.; Rajarajan, M.; Sakthivadivel, R.

    2012-01-01

    Hesperidin a flavanoid, modified TiO 2 nanoparticles (Hes-TiO 2 ) was synthesized to improve the visible light driven photocatalytic performance of TiO 2 . The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis-DRS), FT-IR, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The photocatalytic activity of Hes-TiO 2 was investigated based on the decolorization of eosin-Y under visible light irradiation. Hes-TiO 2 showed high efficiency for the decolorization of eosin-Y. The influences of various reaction parameters like effect of pH, catalyst dosage and initial dye concentration on the photocatalytic efficiency were investigated. The adsorption of eosin-Y on Hes-TiO 2 was found favorable by the Langmuir approach. The removal percentage of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was determined to evaluate the mineralization of eosin-Y during photodecolorization. Based on the intermediates obtained in the GC-MS spectroscopic technique, a probable degradation mechanism has been proposed.

  1. Crystallization kinetics of a soda lime silica glass with TiO2 addition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    De la Parra A, S. M.; Alvarez M, A.; Torres G, L. C.; Sanchez, E. M.

    2009-01-01

    Studies conducted into Na 2 O-CaO-3SiO 2 glass composition suggest that its phase transformation occurs from the surface towards the interior of the sample. In a study carried out in 1982, it was reported that no addition of nucleating agents modified the mechanism. Taking advantage of the disposition materials synthesized by nanotechnology, in this study TiO 2 in nanometer size was used with the idea that, because of its qualities, it could modify the crystallization mechanism. The glasses obtained as well as the thermally treated samples, were evaluated by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) powder method, differential thermal analysis (DTA), and by optical microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Within the range of TiO 2 concentration studied (0 - 10 wt %), 10 wt % of TiO 2 considerably reduced the Na 2 O-2CaO-3SiO 2 phase crystallization process. The crystallization mechanism was not modified and TiO 2 did not form compounds with the matrix components. (Author)

  2. Vertically oriented TiO(x)N(y) nanopillar arrays with embedded Ag nanoparticles for visible-light photocatalysis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jiang, Weitao; Ullah, Najeeb; Divitini, Giorgio; Ducati, Caterina; Kumar, R Vasant; Ding, Yucheng; Barber, Zoe H

    2012-03-27

    We present a straightforward method to produce highly crystalline, vertically oriented TiO(x)N(y) nanopillars (up to 1 μm in length) with a band gap in the visible-light region. This process starts with reactive dc sputtering to produce a TiN porous film, followed by a simple oxidation process at elevated temperatures in oxygen or air. By controlling the oxidation conditions, the band gap of the prepared TiO(x)N(y) can be tuned to different wavelength within the range of visible light. Furthermore, in order to inhibit carrier recombination to enhance the photocatalytic activity, Ag nanoparticles have been embedded into the nanogaps between the TiO(x)N(y) pillars by photoinduced reduction of Ag(+) (aq) irradiated with visible light. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the Ag nanoparticles with a diameter of about 10 nm are uniformly dispersed along the pillars. The prepared TiO(x)N(y) nanopillar matrix and Ag:TiO(x)N(y) network show strong photocatalytic activity under visible-light irradiation, evaluated via degradation of Rhodamine B. © 2012 American Chemical Society

  3. Nano-sized Li4Ti5O12 anode material with excellent performance prepared by solid state reaction: The effect of precursor size and morphology

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Xiangru; Hu, Hao; Huang, Sheng; Yu, Gaige; Gao, Lin; Liu, Haowen; Yu, Ying

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Nano-sized Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 has been prepared through solid state reaction by using axiolitic TiO 2 as precursor. • The prepared nano-sized Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 anode material shows excellent electrochemical performance. • The utilization of precursor with special morphology and size is one of the useful ways to prepare more active electrode materials. - Abstract: Spinel nano-sized Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 anode material of secondary lithium-ion battery has been successfully prepared by solid state reaction using axiolitic TiO 2 assembled by 10–20 nm nanoparticles and Li 2 CO 3 as precursors. The synthesis condition, grain size effect and corresponding electrochemical performance of the special Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 have been studied in comparison with those of the normal Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 originated from commercial TiO 2 . We also propose the mechanism that using the nano-scaled TiO 2 with special structure and unexcess Li 2 CO 3 as precursors can synthesize pure phase nano-sized Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 at 800 °C through solid state reaction. The prepared nano-sized Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 anode material for Li-ion batteries shows excellent capacity performance with rate capacity of 174.2, 164.0, 157.4, 146.4 and 129.6 mA h g −1 at 0.5, 1, 2, 5 and 10 C, respectively, and capacity retention of 95.1% after 100 cycles at 1 C. In addition, the specific capacity fade for the cell with the different Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 active materials resulted from the increase of internal resistance after 100 cycles is compared

  4. 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.

  5. Controllable growth and magnetic properties of nickel nanoclusters electrodeposited on the ZnO nanorod template

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tang Yang; Zhao Dongxu; Shen Dezhen; Zhang Jiying; Wang Xiaohua

    2009-01-01

    The ZnO nanorods were used as a template to fabricate nickel nanoclusters by electrodeposition. The ZnO nanorod arrays act as a nano-semiconductor electrode for depositing metallic and magnetic nickel nanoclusters. The growth sites of Ni nanoclusters could be controlled by adjusting the applied potential. Under -1.15 V the Ni nanoclusters could be grown on the tips of ZnO nanorods. On increasing the potential to be more negative the ZnO nanorods were covered by Ni nanoclusters. The magnetic properties of the electrodeposited Ni nanoclusters also evolved with the applied potentials.

  6. Controllable growth and magnetic properties of nickel nanoclusters electrodeposited on the ZnO nanorod template

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tang Yang; Zhao Dongxu; Shen Dezhen; Zhang Jiying [Key Laboratory of Excited State Processes, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 East Nan-Hu Road, Open Economic Zone, Changchun 130033 (China); Wang Xiaohua, E-mail: dxzhao2000@yahoo.com.c [National Key Laboratory of High Power Semiconductor Laser, Changchun University of Science and Technology, 7089 WeiXing Road, ChangChun 130022 (China)

    2009-12-09

    The ZnO nanorods were used as a template to fabricate nickel nanoclusters by electrodeposition. The ZnO nanorod arrays act as a nano-semiconductor electrode for depositing metallic and magnetic nickel nanoclusters. The growth sites of Ni nanoclusters could be controlled by adjusting the applied potential. Under -1.15 V the Ni nanoclusters could be grown on the tips of ZnO nanorods. On increasing the potential to be more negative the ZnO nanorods were covered by Ni nanoclusters. The magnetic properties of the electrodeposited Ni nanoclusters also evolved with the applied potentials.

  7. Mechanical properties of Y2O3-doped W-Ti alloys

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aguirre, M.V.; Martin, A.; Pastor, J.Y.; LLorca, J.; Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R.

    2010-01-01

    W and W alloys are currently considered promising candidates for plasma facing components in future fusion reactors but most of the information on their mechanical properties at elevated temperature was obtained in the 1960s and 1970s. In this investigation, the strength and toughness of novel Y 2 O 3 -doped W-Ti alloys manufactured by powder metallurgy were measured from 25 o C up to 1000 o C in laboratory air and the corresponding deformation and failure micromechanisms were ascertained from analyses of the fracture surfaces. Although the materials were fairly brittle at ambient temperature, the strength and toughness increased with temperature and Ti content up to 600 o C. Beyond this temperature, oxidation impaired the mechanical properties but the presence of Y 2 O 3 enhanced the strength and toughness retention up to 800 o C.

  8. Uniform TiO2 nanoparticles induce apoptosis in epithelial cell lines in a size-dependent manner.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Qingqing; Ishii, Takayuki; Kanehira, Koki; Sato, Takeshi; Taniguchi, Akiyoshi

    2017-05-02

    The size of titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles is a vital parameter that determines their cytotoxicity. However, most reported studies have employed irregular shapes and sizes of TiO 2 nanoparticles, as it is difficult to produce nanoparticles of suitable sizes for research. We produced good model TiO 2 nanoparticles of uniform shape and size for use in studying their cytotoxicity. In this work, spherical, uniform polyethylene glycol-modified TiO 2 (TiO 2 -PEG) nanoparticles of differing sizes (100, 200, and 300 nm) were prepared using the sol-gel method. A size-dependent decrease in cell viability was observed with increasing nanoparticle size. Furthermore, apoptosis was found to be positively associated with nanoparticle size, as evidenced by an increase in caspase-3 activity with increasing nanoparticle size. Larger nanoparticles exhibited higher cellular uptake, suggesting that larger nanoparticles more strongly induce apoptosis. In addition, the cellular uptake of different sizes of nanoparticles was energy dependent, suggesting that there are size-dependent uptake pathways. We found that 100 and 200 nm (but not 300 nm) nanoparticles were taken up via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. These results utilizing uniform nanoparticles suggest that the size-dependent cytotoxicity of nanoparticles involves active cellular uptake, caspase-3 activation, and apoptosis in the epithelial cell line (NCI-H292). These findings will hopefully aid in the future design and safe use of nanoparticles.

  9. Transmission electron microscopy studies on nanometer-sized ω phase produced in Gum Metal

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yano, Takaaki; Murakami, Yasukazu; Shindo, Daisuke; Hayasaka, Yuichiro; Kuramoto, Shigeru

    2010-01-01

    The morphology, numerical density and average spacing of the ω phase formed in Gum Metal, a Ti-based alloy showing unique mechanical properties, were studied by transmission electron microscopy. Based on dark-field image observations and precise thickness measurements using a thin-foil specimen, the average spacing of the nanometer-sized ω phase was determined to be 6 nm. This spacing appeared to be sufficiently small for trapping dislocations. The results are discussed in conjunction with the dislocation-free deformation mechanism proposed for Gum Metal.

  10. Ab initio study of structural, electronic, optical, and vibrational properties of Zn{sub x}S{sub y} (x + y = 2 to 5) nanoclusters

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yadav, P. S.; Pandey, D. K., E-mail: pdhiraj2000@gmail.com; Agrawal, S.; Agrawal, B. K. [Allahabad University, Department of Physics (India)

    2010-03-15

    An ab initio study of the stability, structural, electronic. and optical properties has been performed for 46 zinc sulfide nanoclusters Zn{sub x}S{sub y} (x + y = n = 2 to 5). Five out of them are seen to be unstable as their vibrational frequencies are found to be imaginary. A B3LYP-DFT/6-311G(3df) method is employed to optimize the geometries and a TDDFT method is used for the study of the optical properties. The binding energies (BE), HOMO-LUMO gaps and the bond lengths have been obtained for all the clusters. For the ZnS{sub 2}, ZnS{sub 3}, and ZnS{sub 4} nanoclusters, our stable structures are seen to be different from those obtained earlier by using the effective core potentials. We have also considered the zero point energy (ZPE) corrections ignored by the earlier workers. For a fixed value of n, we designate the most stable structure the one, which has maximum final binding energy per atom. The adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials (IP) and electron affinities (EA), charges on the atoms, dipole moments, optical properties, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities, relative infrared intensities, and Raman scattering activities have been investigated for the most stable structures. The nanoclusters containing large number of S atoms for each n is found to be most stable. The HOMO-LUMO gap decreases from n = 2-3 and then increases above n = 3. The IP and EA both fluctuate with the cluster size n. The optical absorption is quite weak in visible region but strong in the ultraviolet region in most of the nanoclusters except a few. The optical absorption spectrum or electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) is unique for every nanocluster and may be used to characterize a specific nanocluster. The growth of most stable nanoclusters may be possible in the experiments.

  11. Effect of TiO, nanoparticles on the interface in the PET-rubber composites.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vladuta, Cristina; Andronic, Luminita; Duta, Anca

    2010-04-01

    Usually, ceramic powders (SiO2, ZnO) are used as fillers for enhancing rubber mechanical strength. Poly-ethylene terephthalate (PET)-rubber nanocomposites were prepared by compression molding using titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles as low content fillers (rubber nanocomposites were studied before and after keeping the samples under UV-radiation for a week. UV-radiation has interesting potential for the photochemical modification of polymers and TiO2. The influence of UV radiation on the properties of the interface polymer-TiO2 nanoparticles was evaluated. The impact of nanoparticle aggregates on the nanometer to micrometer organization of PET-rubber composites was studied with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The interface properties were explained by measuring the contact angles and surface tensions. The interactions between components of nanocomposites were investigated with Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) and the effects of TiO2 nanoparticle on the interfaces and composites crystalline structure were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results proved that the TiO2 nanoparticles, in different weight percentages, did not alter the nanocomposites crystallinity or the average crystallites size, but improve the interface properties.

  12. First-principles calculations of (Y, Ti, O) cluster formation in body centred cubic iron-chromium

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Claisse, Antoine; Olsson, Pär

    2013-01-01

    In the present work, the ab initio parametrization necessary for a Monte Carlo study of the (Y, Ti, O) clusters in a FeCr matrix is done. The cohesive, binding and migration energies of all the solutes have been calculated in the dilute limit in the framework of density functional theory. The special case of the strong interaction between an Y atom and a vacancy has been considered. In the dilute limit, Cr is transparent with respect to Y, Ti, O or vacancies. On the contrary, Y binds O strongly in 2NN configuration while not in 1NN. Ti binds O in 1NN and 2NN configurations. A vacancy binds strongly with Y and O in 1NN position which is resulting in a low diffusion coefficient for Y. The peculiar case of the binding attraction between two interstitial oxygen atoms has been studied and is believed to be the main reason for the planar (2D) symmetry of the cluster nuclei. A preferential cluster shape is determined for the early nucleation stage, up to 12 atoms

  13. Size-Dependent Specific Surface Area of Nanoporous Film Assembled by Core-Shell Iron Nanoclusters

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jiji Antony

    2006-01-01

    Full Text Available Nanoporous films of core-shell iron nanoclusters have improved possibilities for remediation, chemical reactivity rate, and environmentally favorable reaction pathways. Conventional methods often have difficulties to yield stable monodispersed core-shell nanoparticles. We produced core-shell nanoclusters by a cluster source that utilizes combination of Fe target sputtering along with gas aggregations in an inert atmosphere at 7∘C. Sizes of core-shell iron-iron oxide nanoclusters are observed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM. The specific surface areas of the porous films obtained from Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET process are size-dependent and compared with the calculated data.

  14. Nanometer size field effect transistors for terahertz detectors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Knap, W; Rumyantsev, S; Coquillat, D; Dyakonova, N; Teppe, F; Vitiello, M S; Tredicucci, A; Blin, S; Shur, M; Nagatsuma, T

    2013-01-01

    Nanometer size field effect transistors can operate as efficient resonant or broadband terahertz detectors, mixers, phase shifters and frequency multipliers at frequencies far beyond their fundamental cut-off frequency. This work is an overview of some recent results concerning the application of nanometer scale field effect transistors for the detection of terahertz radiation. (paper)

  15. Movilidad de oxígeno en conductores iónicos A2Ti2-yZryO7 (A: Y, Gd

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    León, C.

    2004-08-01

    Full Text Available We report a study of ionic conductivity in the series Y2Ti2-yZryO7 and Gd2Ti2-yZryO7 (0≤y≤2 obtained by mechanochemical synthesis. We present a study of oxygen ion dynamics in these materials by Impedance Spectroscopy. The change in dc conductivity and activation energy with Zr content is interpreted in terms of the increase in the number of oxygen vacancies and of structural disorder when increasing Zr content.Presentamos un estudio de la conductividad iónica en las series Y2Ti2-yZryO7 y Gd2Ti2-yZryO7 (0≤y≤2 obtenidas por síntesis mecanoquímica. Se presenta un estudio de la dinámica de iones oxígeno en estos materiales mediante la técnica de Espectroscopia de Admitancias. La variación con el contenido en Zr de la conductividad dc y de su energía de activación se interpreta en términos del aumento tanto del número de vacantes de oxígeno como del desorden en la estructura al aumentar el contenido en Zr.

  16. Visible light assisted photodecolorization of eosin-Y in aqueous solution using hesperidin modified TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vignesh, K. [P.G. and Research Department of Chemistry, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamilnadu 625009 (India); Suganthi, A., E-mail: suganthiphd09@gmail.com [P.G. and Research Department of Chemistry, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamilnadu 625009 (India); Rajarajan, M., E-mail: rajarajan_1962@yahoo.com [Department of Chemistry, C.P.A. College, Bodinayakanur, Tamilnadu 626513 (India); Sakthivadivel, R. [P.G. and Research Department of Chemistry, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamilnadu 625009 (India)

    2012-03-01

    Hesperidin a flavanoid, modified TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (Hes-TiO{sub 2}) was synthesized to improve the visible light driven photocatalytic performance of TiO{sub 2}. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis-DRS), FT-IR, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The photocatalytic activity of Hes-TiO{sub 2} was investigated based on the decolorization of eosin-Y under visible light irradiation. Hes-TiO{sub 2} showed high efficiency for the decolorization of eosin-Y. The influences of various reaction parameters like effect of pH, catalyst dosage and initial dye concentration on the photocatalytic efficiency were investigated. The adsorption of eosin-Y on Hes-TiO{sub 2} was found favorable by the Langmuir approach. The removal percentage of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was determined to evaluate the mineralization of eosin-Y during photodecolorization. Based on the intermediates obtained in the GC-MS spectroscopic technique, a probable degradation mechanism has been proposed.

  17. Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Properties of Bamboo Charcoal/TiO2 Composites Using Four Sizes Powder

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Bin Wang

    2018-04-01

    Full Text Available Visible-light-active bamboo biochar/TiO2 composites were fabricated by the calcination method using C16H36O4Ti as the titanium source and bamboo powder with different sizes as the carbon source. The TiO2 nanoparticles were observed to disperse onto the surface of bamboo biochar fiber. The sizes of the bamboo powder played an important role in the microstructures and the properties of bamboo biochar/TiO2 composites. The bamboo biochar/TiO2 composites displayed the photocatalytic activities both under visible light irradiation and UV irradiation. The adsorption isotherms better fitted Freundlich isotherm models and the photodegradation reactions followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. Bamboo charcoal/TiO2 composites exhibited high stability after up to four cycles. This research could pave the way for high-value applications of biomass in the environmental field.

  18. Analysis of nano-meter structure in Ti implanted polymers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhou Gu; Wu Yuguang; Zhang Tonghe; Zhao Xinrong

    2001-01-01

    Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is modified with Ti ion implantation to a dose of 1x10 17 to 2 x 10 17 cm -2 by using a metal vapor vacuum arc(MEVVA)source. Nano-meter structures in the implanted sample are observed by means of transmission electron microscope (TEM). The influence of ion dose on the structure is indicated. The results show that dense nano-meter phases are dispersed uniformly in the implanted layer. TEM cross section indicates that there is a three-layer structure in the implanted PET. It is found that a metallurgical surface is formed. Therefore the hardness, wear resistance and conductive properties of PET are improved after metal ion implantation. The mechanism of electrical conduction will be discussed

  19. A model for the electric conduction in metal/poly-TiO2/metal structure

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hossein-Babaei, Faramarz; Alaei-Sheini, Navid-

    2017-12-01

    Intensely studied memristive devices have M‧/MO/M″ structures, wherein MO is a nanometer-sized metal oxide crystallite sandwiched between the M‧ and M″ metal electrodes. The most widely used oxide for this purpose is TiO2 and the electrodes are of noble metals such as platinum, silver, and gold. The memristive features of the device is believed to originate from the motion of the ionized oxygen vacancies within the oxide crystal. The operation of the device is further complicated by the motion of the mobile cations originating from the metal electrodes. The complexity of the device performance increases further when the noble metal electrodes form Schottky barriers at their junctions with TiO2, as the conduction takes place through these energy barriers. In a recent publication, the authors have shown that, owing to the ohmicity of the Ti/TiO2 junctions, electronic observations on the devices with Ti/TiO2/Ti structure can be easier to model. The presented model clarified that in a Ti/poly-TiO2/Ti structure, the ionic motion and the electronic conduction take place on the TiO2 grain surfaces and grain boundaries rather than the grain interiors. Here, we show that the suggested model has important implications for chemical sensor design and fabrication.

  20. Impact of nano and bulk ZrO2, TiO2 particles on soil nutrient contents and PGPR.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Karunakaran, Gopalu; Suriyaprabha, Rangaraj; Manivasakan, Palanisamy; Yuvakkumar, Rathinam; Rajendran, Venkatachalam; Kannan, Narayanasamy

    2013-01-01

    Currently, nanometal oxides are used extensively in different industries such as medicine, cosmetics and food. The increased consumption of nanoparticles (NPs) leads the necessity to understand the fate of the nanoparticles in the environment. The present study focused on the ecotoxicological behaviour of bulk and nano ZrO2 (Zirconia) and TiO2 (Titania) particles on PGPR (plant growth promoting rhizobacteria), soil and its nutrient contents. The microbial susceptibility study showed that nano TiO2 had 13 +/- 0.9 mm (B. megaterium), 15 +/- 0.2 mm (P. fluorescens), 16 +/- 0.2 mm (A. vinelandii) and 12 +/- 0.3 mm (B. brevis) zones of inhibition. However, nano and bulk ZrO2 particles were non-toxic to PGPR. In addition, it was found that toxicity varied depends on the medium of reaction. The soil study showed that nano TiO2 was found to be highly toxic, whereas bulk TiO2 was less toxic towards soil bacterial populations at 1000 mg L(-1). In contrast, nano and bulk ZrO2 were found to be inert at 1000 mg L(-1). The observed zeta potential and hydrophobicity of TiO2 particles causes more toxic than ZrO2 in parallel with particle size. However, nano TiO2 decreases the microbial population as well as nutrient level of the soil but not zirconia. Our finding shows that the mechanism of toxicity depends on size, hydrophobic potential and zeta potential of the metal oxide particles. Thus, it is necessary to take safety measures during the disposal and use of such toxic nanoparticles in the soil to prevent their hazardous effects.

  1. CdSe quantum dots co-sensitized TiO2 photoelectrodes: particle size dependent properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Prabakar, K; Minkyu, S; Inyoung, S; Heeje, K

    2010-01-01

    Cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) with different particle sizes have been used as an inorganic co-sensitizer in addition to organic dye for large band gap mesoporous TiO 2 dye sensitized solar cells. The QDs co-sensitized solar cells exhibited overall highest conversion efficiency of 3.65% at 1 sun irradiation for 3.3 nm particle size corresponding to a visible light absorption wavelength of 528 nm. The photovoltaic characteristics of CdSe QDs co-sensitized cells depend on the particle sizes rather than broad spectral light absorption as compared with CdSe QDs alone sensitized and standard dye-sensitized solar cells. Correlation between CdSe QDs adsorption on mesoporous TiO 2 surfaces and photoelectron injection into TiO 2 has been demonstrated. (fast track communication)

  2. Effects of exposure to nano and bulk sized TiO2 and CuO in Lemna minor.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dolenc Koce, Jasna

    2017-10-01

    Nanoparticles of TiO 2 and CuO are among most commonly used nanoparticles, and elevated concentrations of them are expected to be found in all environments, including aquatic. A standard growth inhibition test ISO/CD 20079 was used to determine the toxicity of nano sized and larger micro sized (bulk) particles in the concentrations of 0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 μM CuO and TiO 2 on common duckweed (Lemna minor L.). Both nano and bulk CuO particles caused changes in the structure and function of treated plants. The number of fronds and colonies decreased by as much as 78%, the length of roots and fronds decreased by 99% and 14%, respectively. Furthermore, photochemical efficiency was reduced by up to 35%, and the activities of antioxidative enzymes guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase increased by more than 240%. The altered physiological state of the CuO exposed plants was also reflected in the elevated occurrence of necrosis and bleaching in the duckweed colonies. Nano sized particles of CuO proved more phytotoxic than bulk particles, and the effects of both studied CuO sizes were concentration dependent. On the other hand, both bulk and nano sized particles of TiO 2 caused no severe phytotoxic effects, there was no concentration dependence and they could be considered as non-harmful to common duckweed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  3. Molecular dynamics studies of displacement cascades in Fe-Y{sub 2}TiO{sub 5} system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dholakia, Manan, E-mail: manan@igcar.gov.in; Chandra, Sharat; Jaya, S. Mathi [Materials Physics Division, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam 603102, TN (India)

    2016-05-23

    The effect of displacement cascade on Fe-Y{sub 2}TiO{sub 5} bilayer is studied using classical molecular dynamics simulations. Different PKA species – Fe, Y, Ti and O – with the same PKA energy of 8 keV are used to produce displacement cascades that encompass the interface. It is shown that Ti atom has the highest movement in the ballistic regime of cascades which can lead to Ti atoms moving out of the oxide clusters into the Fe matrix in ODS alloys.

  4. Pinning of size-selected gold and nickel nanoclusters on graphite

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Di Vece, M.|info:eu-repo/dai/nl/248753355; Paloma, S.; Palmer, R.E.

    2005-01-01

    Size-selected gold and nickel nanoclusters are of interest from an electronic, catalytic, and biological point of view. These applications require the deposition of the clusters on a surface, and a key challenge is to retain the cluster size. Here controlled energy impact is used to immobilize the

  5. The investigations of nanoclusters and micron-sized periodic structures created at the surface of the crystal and amorphous silica by resonant CO2 laser irradiation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mukhamedgalieva A.F.

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available The creation of nanoclasters and micrometer sized periodical structures at the surface of silica (crystal quartz and fused quartz by action of pulsed CO2 laser radiation (pulse energy of 1 J, pulse time of 70 ns have been investigated. The laser action on the surface of samples lead to appearance of two kind of structures – periodical micron-sized structures with the period length close to wave length of CO2 laser irradiation and nanoclusters with size close to 50-100 nanometers. This creation connects with the intensive ablation of matter at the maxima of standing waves which are a results of the interference of falling and surfaces waves. This connects with the resonant absorption of infrared laser radiation by silicate minerals.

  6. Toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles to Escherichia coli: effects of particle size, crystal phase and water chemistry.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xiuchun Lin

    Full Text Available Controversial and inconsistent results on the eco-toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs are commonly found in recorded studies and more experimental works are therefore warranted to elucidate the nanotoxicity and its underlying precise mechanisms. Toxicities of five types of TiO2 NPs with different particle sizes (10∼50 nm and crystal phases were investigated using Escherichia coli as a test organism. The effect of water chemistry on the nanotoxicity was also examined. The antibacterial effects of TiO2 NPs as revealed by dose-effect experiments decreased with increasing particle size and rutile content of the TiO2 NPs. More bacteria could survive at higher solution pH (5.0-10.0 and ionic strength (50-200 mg L(-1 NaCl as affected by the anatase TiO2 NPs. The TiO2 NPs with anatase crystal structure and smaller particle size produced higher content of intracellular reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, in line with their greater antibacterial effect. Transmission electron microscopic observations showed the concentration buildup of the anatase TiO2 NPs especially those with smaller particle sizes on the cell surfaces, leading to membrane damage and internalization. These research results will shed new light on the understanding of ecological effects of TiO2 NPs.

  7. Toxicity of TiO2 Nanoparticles to Escherichia coli: Effects of Particle Size, Crystal Phase and Water Chemistry

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lin, Xiuchun; Li, Jingyi; Ma, Si; Liu, Gesheng; Yang, Kun; Tong, Meiping; Lin, Daohui

    2014-01-01

    Controversial and inconsistent results on the eco-toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly found in recorded studies and more experimental works are therefore warranted to elucidate the nanotoxicity and its underlying precise mechanisms. Toxicities of five types of TiO2 NPs with different particle sizes (10∼50 nm) and crystal phases were investigated using Escherichia coli as a test organism. The effect of water chemistry on the nanotoxicity was also examined. The antibacterial effects of TiO2 NPs as revealed by dose-effect experiments decreased with increasing particle size and rutile content of the TiO2 NPs. More bacteria could survive at higher solution pH (5.0–10.0) and ionic strength (50–200 mg L−1 NaCl) as affected by the anatase TiO2 NPs. The TiO2 NPs with anatase crystal structure and smaller particle size produced higher content of intracellular reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, in line with their greater antibacterial effect. Transmission electron microscopic observations showed the concentration buildup of the anatase TiO2 NPs especially those with smaller particle sizes on the cell surfaces, leading to membrane damage and internalization. These research results will shed new light on the understanding of ecological effects of TiO2 NPs. PMID:25310452

  8. MSINDO quantum chemical modeling study of water molecule adsorption at nano-sized anatase TiO2 surfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wahab, Hilal S.; Bredow, Thomas; Aliwi, Salah M.

    2008-01-01

    In this work, we studied the adsorption of water molecule onto the (1 0 0), (0 1 0) and (0 0 1) surfaces of nano-sized anatase TiO 2 with semiempirical SCF MO method, MSINDO. The anatase TiO 2 particles are modeled with free clusters (TiO 2 ) n, where n = 20-80. Whereas, the surfaces have been modeled with two saturated clusters, Ti 21 O 58 H 32 and Ti 36 O 90 H 36 . The surface lattice fivefold coordinated titanium atoms (Ti 5C ), which represent the Lewis acid sites, are selected as adsorption centers. We also investigated the effect of TiO 2 cluster size on the computed band gap energy. Results reveal that the electronic properties of a cluster in the lowest excited state differ from that of the ground state. Furthermore, the MSINDO band gap energies of 3.68-3.77 eV for the anatase TiO 2 are in a fair accordance with other literature data. In agreement with other computational and experimental studies, the dissociated form of water molecule adsorption on anatase TiO 2 surfaces is always more stabilized than the molecular form

  9. Relationship between electrical and structural properties in Pr2/3+xTiOy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kirsanov, N.A.; Bazuev, G.V.

    1987-01-01

    Synthesis conditions results of X-ray diffraction investigations and electric properties of oxide titanium bronzes (OTB) of praseodymium Pr 2/3+x TiOy in homogeneity region are presented. Change of crystal lattice symmetry in the region of existence of oxide titanium bronzes Pr 2/3+x TiO 3 ± y (O ≤ x ≤ 1/3) was revealed. Specific electrical resistance measurements enabled to conclude that d-electrons of Ti 3+ cations were characterized by collectivized behaviour, conditioned by formation of harrow, partially occupied π*-zone

  10. Catalytic photooxidation of pentachlorophenol using semiconductor nanoclusters

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    WILCOXON,JESS P.

    2000-04-17

    Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a toxic chlorinated aromatic molecule widely used as fungicide, a bactericide and a wood preservation, and thus ubiquitous in the environment. The authors report photo-oxidation of PCP using a variety of nanosize semiconductor metal oxides and sulfides in both aqueous and polar organic solvents and compare the photo-oxidation kinetics of these nanoclusters to widely studied bulk powders like Degussa P-25 TiO{sub 2} and CdS. They study both the light intensity dependence of PCP photooxidation for nanosize SnO{sub 2} and the size dependence of PCP photooxidation for both nanosize SnO{sub 2} and MoS{sub 2}. They find an extremely strong size dependence for the latter which they attribute to its size-dependent band gap and the associated change in redox potentials due to quantum confinement of the hole-electron pair. The authors show that nanosize MoS{sub 2} with a diameter of d=3.0 nm and an absorbance edge of {approximately}450 nm is a very effective photooxidation catalyst for complete PCP mineralization, even when using only visible light irradiation.

  11. 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.

  12. Fractal formation of a Y-Ba-Cu-O thin film on SrTiO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chow, L.; Chen, J.; Desai, V.; Sundaram, K.; Arora, S.

    1989-01-01

    Fractal formation has been observed after thermal annealing of the rf-sputtered Y-Ba-Cu-O thin film on SrTiO 3 substrate. Through energy-dispersive x-ray analysis, it was found that the composition of the fractal was YBa 2 Cu 3 O x and the surrounding film composition wasY 2 Ba 2 Cu 3 O x . The fractal dimensions D ranging from 1.26 to 1.65 were obtained using the standard sandbox method with different thresholds

  13. [Electronic and structural properties of individual nanometer-size supported metallic clusters

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Reifenberger, R.

    1993-01-01

    This report summarizes the work performed under contract DOE-FCO2-84ER45162. During the past ten years, our study of electron emission from laser-illuminated field emission tips has taken on a broader scope by addressing problems of direct interest to those concerned with the unique physical and chemical properties of nanometer-size clusters. The work performed has demonstrated that much needed data can be obtained on individual nanometer-size clusters supported on a wide-variety of different substrates. The work was performed in collaboration with R.P. Andres in the School of Chemical Engineering at Purdue University. The Multiple Expansion Cluster Source developed by Andres and his students was essential for producing the nanometer-size clusters studied. The following report features a discussion of these results. This report provides a motivation for studying the properties of nanometer-size clusters and summarizes the results obtained

  14. Ab initio study of structural, electronic, optical, and vibrational properties of ZnxSy (x + y = 2 to 5) nanoclusters

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yadav, P. S.; Pandey, D. K.; Agrawal, S.; Agrawal, B. K.

    2010-01-01

    An ab initio study of the stability, structural, electronic. and optical properties has been performed for 46 zinc sulfide nanoclusters Zn x S y (x + y = n = 2 to 5). Five out of them are seen to be unstable as their vibrational frequencies are found to be imaginary. A B3LYP-DFT/6-311G(3df) method is employed to optimize the geometries and a TDDFT method is used for the study of the optical properties. The binding energies (BE), HOMO-LUMO gaps and the bond lengths have been obtained for all the clusters. For the ZnS 2 , ZnS 3 , and ZnS 4 nanoclusters, our stable structures are seen to be different from those obtained earlier by using the effective core potentials. We have also considered the zero point energy (ZPE) corrections ignored by the earlier workers. For a fixed value of n, we designate the most stable structure the one, which has maximum final binding energy per atom. The adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials (IP) and electron affinities (EA), charges on the atoms, dipole moments, optical properties, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities, relative infrared intensities, and Raman scattering activities have been investigated for the most stable structures. The nanoclusters containing large number of S atoms for each n is found to be most stable. The HOMO-LUMO gap decreases from n = 2-3 and then increases above n = 3. The IP and EA both fluctuate with the cluster size n. The optical absorption is quite weak in visible region but strong in the ultraviolet region in most of the nanoclusters except a few. The optical absorption spectrum or electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) is unique for every nanocluster and may be used to characterize a specific nanocluster. The growth of most stable nanoclusters may be possible in the experiments.

  15. Comportamiento eléctrico del compuesto Bi5FeTi3O15 y de sus soluciones sólidas con CaBi4Ti4O15

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Durán, P.

    1999-12-01

    Full Text Available Bi5FeTi3O15 (BiFT compound has been prepared by solid state reaction between the corresponding oxides. Its crystalline structure has been established by X ray Diffraction, (XRD. Ceramic samples with apparent density > 95% Dth have been sintered. On these samples, electrical conductivity and Curie temperature have been measured. Solid solutions of Bi5FeTi3O15 (BiFT and CaBi4Ti4O15 (CBiT have been prepared. On poled samples of these solid solutions, piezoelectric parameters have been established. The BiFT compound shows electrical conductivity values very similar to those of the Bi4Ti3O12 (BiT compound. The electrical conductivity of solid solutions is a function of CBiT amount. A possible electrical conductivity mechanism which is different of that accepted for the BiT compound is discussed.Se ha preparado Bi5FeTi3O15 (BiFT por reacción en estado sólido de los óxidos correspondientes. Se ha determinado su estructura cristalina por Difracción de Rayos X (DRX. Se han preparado compactos sinterizados con densidades superiores al 95%. Se ha determinado su temperatura de Curie, y la conductividad eléctrica entre 150 y 850ºC. Se han preparado soluciones sólidas de Bi5FeTi3O15 con CaBi4Ti4O15, (CBiT y se han determinado los mismos parámetros de temperatura de Curie y de conductividad para ellas. En las soluciones sólidas se han determinado los parámetros Piezoeléctricos de muestras polarizadas Debe destacarse que el compuesto Bi5FeTi3O15 presenta unos valores de conducción eléctrica más próximos a los correspondientes al Bi4Ti3O12 (BiT que a los de los compuestos MeBi4Ti4O15. La conductividad eléctrica de las soluciones sólidas varía con el contenido de CBiT. Se discute la posible existencia de un modelo de conducción eléctrica que difiere del aceptado hasta el momento para el BiT, basado en los defectos localizados en las capas Bi2O2 2-.

  16. A graphene–SnO_2–TiO_2 ternary nanocomposite electrode as a high stability lithium-ion anode material

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liang, Jicai; Wang, Juan; Zhou, Meixin; Li, Yi; Wang, Xiaofeng; Yu, Kaifeng

    2016-01-01

    In this work, a solvothermal method combined with a hydrothermal two-step method is developed to synthesize graphene–SnO_2–TiO_2 ternary nanocomposite, in which the nanometer-sized TiO_2 and SnO_2 nanoparticles form in situ uniformly anchored on the surface of graphene sheets, as high stability and capacity lithium-ion anode materials. Compared to graphene–TiO_2, bulk TiO_2 and grapheme–SnO_2 composites, the as-prepared nanocomposite delivers a superior rate performance of 499.3 mAhg"−"1 at 0.2 C and an outstanding stability cycling capability (1073.4 mAhg"−"1 at 0.2 C after 50 cycles), due to the synergistic effects contributed from individual components, for example, high specific capacity of SnO_2, excellent conductivity of 3D graphene networks. - Graphical abstract: Graphene–SnO_2–TiO_2 nanocomposite is synthesized by a hydrothermal two-step method. The composite exhibits higher reversible capacity and better cycle/rate performance due to the unique structure. - Highlights: • We have synthesized a graphene–SnO_2–TiO_2 nanocomposite by a two-step method to improve the cycling performance. • Graphene–SnO_2–TiO_2 nanocomposite is synthesized by a hydrothermal two-step method. • The composite exhibits higher reversible capacity and better cycle/rate performance due to the unique structure.

  17. Physical characteristics and magnetic properties of BaFe12O19/SrTiO3 based composites derived from mechanical alloying

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Widodo, Rahmat Doni; Manaf, Azwar

    2016-01-01

    A composite system BaFe 12 O 19 /SrTiO 3 with ferrimagnetic BaFe 12 O 19 phase (BHF) and ferroelectric SrTiO 3 phase (STO) have been prepared by mechanical alloying and subsequent heat treatment. The composite powders were studied by Particle Size Analyze, X-ray diffraction and magnetic measurement. It was found that the particle size of composite powders initially increased due to laminated layers formation of a composite and then decreased to an asymptotic value of ∼8 µm as the milling time extended even to a relatively longer time. However, based on results of line broadening analysis the mean grain size of the particles was found in the nanometer scale. We thus believed that mechanical blending and milling of mixture components for the composite materials has promoted heterogeneous nucleation and only after successive sintering at 1100°C the milled powder transformed into particles of nanograin. In this report, microstructure as well as magnetic properties for the composite is also briefly discussed.

  18. Grain-size effects on thermal properties of BaTiO3 ceramics

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    Administrator

    decreasing grain size. Furthermore, the Curie temperature shifts to lower temperature with decreasing grain size. Keywords. Nanocrystalline ceramics; thermal properties; size effect. 1. Introduction. BaTiO3 has been widely used in the electronic industry for its high dielectric constant and low losses above room temperature ...

  19. Nanocluster production for solar cell applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Al Dosari, Haila M.; Ayesh, Ahmad I.

    2013-01-01

    This research focuses on the fabrication and characterization of silver (Ag) and silicon (Si) nanoclusters that might be used for solar cell applications. Silver and silicon nanoclusters have been synthesized by means of dc magnetron sputtering and inert gas condensation inside an ultra-high vacuum compatible system. We have found that nanocluster size distributions can be tuned by various source parameters, such as the sputtering discharge power, flow rate of argon inert gas, and aggregation length. Quadrupole mass filter and transmission electron microscopy were used to evaluate the size distribution of Ag and Si nanoclusters. Ag nanoclusters with average size in the range of 3.6–8.3 nm were synthesized (herein size refers to the nanocluster diameter), whereas Si nanoclusters' average size was controlled to range between 2.9 and 7.4 nm by controlling the source parameters. This work illustrates the ability of controlling the Si and Ag nanoclusters' sizes by proper optimization of the operation conditions. By controlling nanoclusters' sizes, one can alter their surface properties to suit the need to enhance solar cell efficiency. Herein, Ag nanoclusters were deposited on commercial polycrystalline solar cells. Short circuit current (I SC ), open circuit voltage (V OC ), fill factor, and efficiency (η) were obtained under light source with an intensity of 30 mW/cm 2 . A 22.7% enhancement in solar cell efficiency could be measured after deposition of Ag nanoclusters, which demonstrates that Ag nanoclusters generated in this work are useful to enhance solar cell efficiency

  20. Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} based breeder ceramics with Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3}, LiAlO{sub 2} and Li{sub X}La{sub Y}TiO{sub 3} additions, part I: Fabrication

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kolb, M.H.H., E-mail: Matthias.kolb@kit.edu [Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Applied Materials, PO Box 3640, 76021 Karlsruhe (Germany); Mukai, K.; Knitter, R. [Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Applied Materials, PO Box 3640, 76021 Karlsruhe (Germany); Hoshino, T. [Breeding Functional Materials Development Group, Department of Blanket Systems Research, Rokkasho Fusion Institute, Fusion Energy Research and Development Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) (Japan)

    2017-02-15

    Highlights: • This study shows that the emulsion method can easily be adapted to add different phases into Li4SiO4 breeder pebbles. • Slurries with various compositions to form LOS + LMT, LOS + LAO and LOS + LLTO were processed.The calculated activation behavior shows that samples with added LAO or LLTO qualify as low activation material. • Yet, the long-term activation of the LAO containing samples is problematic as hands-on level activity is not reached quickly. - Abstract: Wet-chemical fabrication processes are highly adaptable to a wide range of raw materials and are therefore well suited for evaluating new material compositions. Here the established emulsion method was modified to fabricate novel two-phase Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} pebbles of 1 mm diameter with additions of Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3}, LiAlO{sub 2} or Li{sub x}La{sub y}TiO{sub 3}. As the lithium density of the latter two compounds is relatively low, only moderate contents were added. The Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3} additions, however, cover the full compositional range. The fabrication process was characterized with regard to its constancy and aptness for the anticipated pebble compositions by optical pebble size measurements. Also the phase content and the elemental composition of the fabricated pebbles were analyzed by XRD and ICP-OES combined with XRF, respectively. This work shows that the emulsion method is an appropriate method to produce pebbles with the anticipated Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3} and LiAlO{sub 2} concentrations in a Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} matrix. However, Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} and Li{sub x}La{sub y}TiO{sub 3} react with each other to a number of different phases. To evaluate the activation properties of the pebbles, FISPACT calculations with a DEMO relevant neutron source are applied as well. The addition of aluminum seems to be unfavorable for a fusion application, but moderate concentrations of lanthanum can be tolerated.

  1. First Beam Test of Nanometer Spot Size Monitor Using Laser Interferometry

    CERN Document Server

    Walz, D

    2003-01-01

    The nanometer spot size monitor based on the laser interferometry (Laser-Compton Spot Size Monitor) has been tested in FFTB beam line at SLAC. A low emittance beam of 46 GeV electrons, provided by the two-mile linear accelerator, was focused into nanometer spot in the FFTB line, and its transverse dimensions were precisely measured by the spot size monitor.

  2. First Beam Test of Nanometer Spot Size Monitor Using Laser Interferometry

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Walz, Dieter R

    2003-01-01

    The nanometer spot size monitor based on the laser interferometry (Laser-Compton Spot Size Monitor) has been tested in FFTB beam line at SLAC. A low emittance beam of 46 GeV electrons, provided by the two-mile linear accelerator, was focused into nanometer spot in the FFTB line, and its transverse dimensions were precisely measured by the spot size monitor

  3. Ferroelectric relaxor Ba(TiCe)O3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen Ang; Zhi Jing; Yu Zhi

    2002-01-01

    The dielectric behaviour of Ba(Ti 1-y Ce y )O 3 solid solutions (y=0-0.3) has been studied. A small amount of Ce doping (y=0.02) has weak influence on the dielectric behaviour of Ba(Ti 1-y Ce y )O 3 . With increasing Ce concentration, three phase transitions of pure BaTiO 3 are pinched into one rounded dielectric peak with frequency dispersion, and the relaxation time follows the Vogel-Fulcher relation. The evolution from a normal ferroelectric to a ferroelectric relaxor is emphasized. High strains (S=∼0.1-0.19%) with a small hysteresis under ac fields are obtained in ferroelectric relaxors Ba(Ti 1-y Ce y )O 3 . The physical mechanism of the relaxation process, the pinching effect of the phase transitions and their influence on the ferroelectric and electrostrictive behaviour are discussed. (author)

  4. Synthesis of gold nanoclusters: a fluorescent marker for water-soluble TiO2 nanotubes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ratanatawanate, Chalita; Yu Jing; Zhou Chen; Zheng Jie; Balkus, Kenneth J Jr

    2011-01-01

    The first example of a water-soluble wrapped titania nanotube (TNT) decorated with fluorescent gold nanoparticles has been prepared. Gold nanoparticles ∼ 1.6 nm in diameter were grown on the TiO 2 nanotubes using a thiolactic acid linker to control the size. The gold clusters emit at 660 nm in water and were imaged using confocal microscopy. The gold decorated TNTs were suspended in water by wrapping the nanotubes with poly-L-arginine.

  5. Phenomenological theory of size effects in ultrafine ferroelectric particles (PbTiO3-type)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jiang, B.; Bursill, L.A.

    1998-01-01

    A new phenomenological model is proposed and discussed to study the size effects on phase transitions in PbTiO 3 -type ferroelectric particles. This model, by taking size effects on the phenomenological Landau-Ginzburg-Devonshire coefficients into consideration, can successfully explain the size effects on Curie temperature, c/a ratio, thermal and dielectric properties of lead-titanate-type ferroelectric particles. Theoretical and experimental results for PbTiO 3 fine particles are also compared and discussed. The relationship between the current model and the model of Zhong et al (Phys. Rev. B 50, 698 (1994)) is also presented. (authors)

  6. Perovskite oxynitride LaTiO{sub x}N{sub y} thin films: Dielectric characterization in low and high frequencies

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lu, Y.; Ziani, A. [Institut d' Electronique et de Telecommunications de Rennes (IETR) UMR-CNRS 6164, groupe ' Antennes et Hyperfrequences' , University of Rennes 1, UEB, IUT Saint Brieuc, 18 rue Henri Wallon, 22004 Saint Brieuc cedex (France); Le Paven-Thivet, C., E-mail: claire.lepaven@univ-rennes1.fr [Institut d' Electronique et de Telecommunications de Rennes (IETR) UMR-CNRS 6164, groupe ' Antennes et Hyperfrequences' , University of Rennes 1, UEB, IUT Saint Brieuc, 18 rue Henri Wallon, 22004 Saint Brieuc cedex (France); Benzerga, R.; Le Gendre, L. [Institut d' Electronique et de Telecommunications de Rennes (IETR) UMR-CNRS 6164, groupe ' Antennes et Hyperfrequences' , University of Rennes 1, UEB, IUT Saint Brieuc, 18 rue Henri Wallon, 22004 Saint Brieuc cedex (France); Fasquelle, D. [Laboratoire d' Etude des Materiaux et des Composants pour l' Electronique (LEMCEL) UPRES-EA 2601, University of Littoral-Cote d' Opale, 50 rue Ferdinand Buisson, F-62228 Calais cedex (France); Kassem, H. [Laboratoire de l' Integration du Materiau au Systeme(IMS) UMR-CNRS 5218, groupe Materiaux, University of Bordeaux 1, 16 avenue Pey-Berland, 33607 Pessac (France); and others

    2011-11-01

    Lanthanum titanium oxynitride (LaTiO{sub x}N{sub y}) thin films are studied with respect to their dielectric properties in low and high frequencies. Thin films are deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering on different substrates. Effects of nitrogen content and crystalline quality on dielectric properties are investigated. In low-frequency range, textured LaTiO{sub x}N{sub y} thin films deposited on conductive single crystal Nb-STO show a dielectric constant {epsilon} Prime Almost-Equal-To 140 with low losses tan{delta} = 0.012 at 100 kHz. For the LaTiO{sub x}N{sub y} polycrystalline films deposited on conductive silicon substrates with platinum (Pt/Ti/SiO{sub 2}/Si), the tunability reached up to 57% for a weak electric field of 50 kV/cm. In high-frequency range, epitaxial LaTiO{sub x}N{sub y} films deposited on MgO substrate present a high dielectric constant with low losses ({epsilon} Prime Almost-Equal-To 170, tan{delta} = 0.011, 12 GHz).

  7. Effects of grain size and humidity on fretting wear in fine-grained alumina, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiC, and zirconia

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Krell, A. [Fraunhofer Inst. for Ceramic Technologies and Sintered Materials, Dresden (Germany); Klaffke, D. [Federal Inst. for Materials Research and Testing, Berlin (Germany)

    1996-05-01

    Friction and wear of sintered alumina with grain sizes between 0.4 and 3 {micro}m were measured in comparison with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiC composites and with tetragonal ZrO{sub 2} (3 mol% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}). The dependence on the grain boundary toughness and residual microstresses is investigated, and a hierarchical order of influencing parameters is observed. In air, reduced alumina grain sizes improve the micromechanical stability of the grain boundaries and the hardness, and reduced wear is governed by microplastic deformation, with few pullout events. Humidity and water slightly reduce the friction of all of the investigated ceramics. In water, this effect reduces the wear of coarser alumina microstructures. The wear of aluminas and of the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiC composite is similar; it is lower than observed in zirconia, where extended surface cracking occurs at grain sizes as small as 0.3 {micro}m.

  8. Pebble fabrication of super advanced tritium breeders using a solid solution of Li2+xTiO3+y with Li2ZrO3

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tsuyoshi Hoshino

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available Lithium titanate with excess lithium (Li2+xTiO3+y is one of the most promising candidates among advanced tritium breeders for demonstration power plant reactors because of its good tritium release characteristics. However, the tritium breeding ratio (TBR of Li2+xTiO3+y is smaller than that of e.g., Li2O or Li8TiO6 because of its lower Li density. Therefore, new Li-containing ceramic composites with both high stability and high Li density have been developed. Thus, this study focused on the development of a solid solution with a new characteristic. The solid-solution pebbles of Li2+xTiO3+y with Li2ZrO3 (Li2+x(Ti,ZrO3+y, designated as LTZO, were fabricated by an emulsion method. The X-ray diffraction patterns of sintered LTZO pebbles are approximately the same as those of Li2+xTiO3+y pebbles, and no peaks attributable to Li2ZrO3 are observed. These results demonstrate that LTZO pebbles are not a two-phase material but rather a solid solution. Furthermore, LTZO pebbles were easily sintered under air. Thus, the LTZO solid solution is a candidate breeder material for super advanced (SA tritium breeders.

  9. Investigating the adsorption of H2O on ZnO nanoclusters by first principle calculations

    KAUST Repository

    Al-Sunaidi, Abdullah A.

    2011-04-01

    The interaction of a single H2O molecule on selected ZnO nanoclusters is investigated by carrying out calculations based on the density-functional theory at the hybrid-GGA (B97-2) level. These clusters have ring, drum, tube and bubble shapes and their physical properties like the binding energy and the band gap energy depend strongly on the shape and size of the cluster. Depending on the stability of the cluster, H2O show both chemisorption and dissociation on the surfaces of the clusters. We analyzed the effect of H2O adsorption on the properties of clusters of size n = 12 via the density of state, HOMO-LUMO orbitals and the changes in the IR frequencies. © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. In vitro corrosion behavior of Ti-O film deposited on fluoride-treated Mg-Zn-Y-Nd alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hou, S.S.; Zhang, R.R. [Materials Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Guan, S.K., E-mail: skguan@zzu.edu.cn [Materials Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Ren, C.X.; Gao, J.H.; Lu, Q.B.; Cui, X.Z. [Materials Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China)

    2012-02-01

    In this paper, a new composite coating was fabricated on magnesium alloy by a two-step approach, to improve the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Y-Nd alloy. First, fluoride conversion layer was synthesized on magnesium alloy surface by immersion treatment in hydrofluoric acid and then, Ti-O film was deposited on the preceding fluoride layer by magnetron sputtering. FE-SEM images revealed a smooth and uniform surface consisting of aggregated nano-particles with average size of 100 nm, and a total coating thickness of {approx}1.5 {mu}m, including an outer Ti-O film of {approx}250 nm. The surface EDS and XRD data indicated that the composite coating was mainly composed of crystalline magnesium fluoride (MgF{sub 2}), and non-crystalline Ti-O. Potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed that the composite coated sample have a corrosion potential (E{sub corr}) of -1.60 V and a corrosion current density (I{sub corr}) of 0.17 {mu}A/cm{sup 2}, which improved by 100 mV and reduced by two orders of magnitude, compared with the sample only coated by Ti-O. EIS results showed a polarization resistance of 3.98 k{Omega} cm{sup 2} for the Ti-O coated sample and 0.42 k{Omega} cm{sup 2} for the composite coated sample, giving an improvement of about 100 times. After 72 h immersion in SBF, widespread damage and deep corrosion holes were observed on the Ti-O coated sample surface, while the integrity of composite coating remained well after 7 d. In brief, the data suggested that single Ti-O film on degradable magnesium alloys was apt to become failure prematurely in corrosion environment. Ti-O film deposited on fluoride-treated magnesium alloys might potentially meet the requirements for future clinical magnesium alloy stent application.

  11. In vitro corrosion behavior of Ti-O film deposited on fluoride-treated Mg-Zn-Y-Nd alloy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hou, S.S.; Zhang, R.R.; Guan, S.K.; Ren, C.X.; Gao, J.H.; Lu, Q.B.; Cui, X.Z.

    2012-01-01

    In this paper, a new composite coating was fabricated on magnesium alloy by a two-step approach, to improve the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Y-Nd alloy. First, fluoride conversion layer was synthesized on magnesium alloy surface by immersion treatment in hydrofluoric acid and then, Ti-O film was deposited on the preceding fluoride layer by magnetron sputtering. FE-SEM images revealed a smooth and uniform surface consisting of aggregated nano-particles with average size of 100 nm, and a total coating thickness of ∼1.5 μm, including an outer Ti-O film of ∼250 nm. The surface EDS and XRD data indicated that the composite coating was mainly composed of crystalline magnesium fluoride (MgF 2 ), and non-crystalline Ti-O. Potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed that the composite coated sample have a corrosion potential (E corr ) of -1.60 V and a corrosion current density (I corr ) of 0.17 μA/cm 2 , which improved by 100 mV and reduced by two orders of magnitude, compared with the sample only coated by Ti-O. EIS results showed a polarization resistance of 3.98 kΩ cm 2 for the Ti-O coated sample and 0.42 kΩ cm 2 for the composite coated sample, giving an improvement of about 100 times. After 72 h immersion in SBF, widespread damage and deep corrosion holes were observed on the Ti-O coated sample surface, while the integrity of composite coating remained well after 7 d. In brief, the data suggested that single Ti-O film on degradable magnesium alloys was apt to become failure prematurely in corrosion environment. Ti-O film deposited on fluoride-treated magnesium alloys might potentially meet the requirements for future clinical magnesium alloy stent application.

  12. Enhanced photocatalytic activity of supported TiO{sub 2} by selective surface modification of zeolite Y

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Guesh, Kiros [Chemistry-Department, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa (Ethiopia); Mizan-Tepi University, P.O. Box 260, Mizan-Teferi (Ethiopia); Márquez-Álvarez, Carlos [Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, CSIC, c/Marie Curie 2, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Chebude, Yonas [Chemistry-Department, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa (Ethiopia); Díaz, Isabel, E-mail: idiaz@icp.csic.es [Chemistry-Department, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa (Ethiopia); Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica, CSIC, c/Marie Curie 2, 28049 Madrid (Spain)

    2016-08-15

    Highlights: • XPS analysis confirmed that 50% of the Al was removed from the surface of zeolite Y. • Loaded TiO{sub 2} on the treated zeolites showed 12 times higher TORm than the parent zeolite. • Supported TiO{sub 2} showed very low leaching of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles than non supported. - Abstract: Zeolite Y was treated using ammonium acetate and ammonium fluoride sequentially. As a consequence the aluminum from the surface was selectively removed. Then, loading with TiO{sub 2} (20 wt%) led to a final photocatalyst. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), elemental analysis (ICP-OES), N{sub 2} adsorption, diffuse reflectance UV–vis spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that 50% of the Al atoms were removed from the surface of the zeolite without affecting the framework structure. The TiO{sub 2}/treated zeolite sample yielded 92% photocatalytic degradation of 10 ppm methyl orange (MO), a model pollutant, while the TiO{sub 2}/parent zeolite converted only 7.6%. The mass normalized turnover rate (TOR{sub m}) of the treated zeolite loaded with TiO{sub 2} was about 12 times higher than that of the parent zeolite loaded with the same amount of TiO{sub 2} precursor. This higher photocatalytic activity of the TiO{sub 2} supported on treated zeolite can be attributed to a more efficient interaction of the TiO{sub 2} with the zeolite leading to higher adsorption capacity. Reusability of the photocatalysts was assessed by performing three consecutive reaction cycles that showed no significant loss of photocatalytic activity.

  13. Preparation and Characterization of Nano-Sized TiO2@Chitosan for Bone Tissue Engineering

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lei JIANG

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available Background: With the development of genetic engineering, it is urgent to find a vector with high transfection efficiency and good biocompatibility for genes. We considered combining nano-TiO2 with chitosan (CTS in order to tap their respective advantages to make a better new nanoparticle as gene vector.Methods: TiO2@CTS was prepared using microemulsion method. The physicochemical property of TiO2@CTS was measured by transmission electron microscopy (TEM and zeta potential. The safety and influence on MC3T3-E1 cells were detected by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT, blood compatibility assay and flow cytometry.Results: TiO2@CTS was well prepared and it was safe to cells under concentration tests. TiO2@CTS particles had a fuzzy boundary with a particle size remaining in 20-30 nm. Besides, the results also showed that TiO2@CTS did better in cellular uptake than TiO2 at 2 h and 24 h, and had good biocompatibility. MTT assay proved that the MC3T3 cells remained good growth when treated with different concentrations of TiO2@CTS (2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 μg/mL. Moreover, transfection assay in vitro and electrophoretic mobility shift assay illustrated the high transfection efficiency of TiO2@CTS.Conclusion: TiO2@CTS is a good choice to gene transfection, with good biocompatibility, and it also provides a new thought for the application of nanotechnology in the field of aveolar bone graft material.

  14. Synthesis of crystalline Ge nanoclusters in PE-CVD-deposited SiO2 films

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Leervad Pedersen, T.P.; Skov Jensen, J.; Chevallier, J.

    2005-01-01

    The synthesis of evenly distributed Ge nanoclusters in plasma-enhanced chemical-vapour-deposited (PE-CVD) SiO2 thin films containing 8 at. % Ge is reported. This is of importance for the application of nanoclusters in semiconductor technology. The average diameter of the Ge nanoclusters can...

  15. Synthesis, Characterization and Sonocatalytic Activity of Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12 /TiO2 Film for the Degradation of Organic Dyes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wang L.

    2015-07-01

    Full Text Available The sonocatalytic degradation of organic dyes (C.I. 50040, C.I. Reactive Red 1, C.I. Acid Orange 7 catalysed by Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 films was studied. For the preparation of Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 films, the sol-gel coating process was used. The phase composition, morphology, precursor at different temperatures and emitting light properties of the calcined powders were analysed by X-ray diffraction (XRD, absorption spectra and upconversion emission spectra. The X-ray diffraction of powder samples of Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 took on anatase mine peaks and upconversion luminous agent, respectively. Analysis of absorption spectra of amorphous Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 showed that doping N stretching vibration peak of water or hydroxyl adsorption, Co2+ ion had very strong absorption in 1.0–1.7 μm wavelength range, the transition luminescence of Er3+ ions was just on Co2+ ions absorption band. The emission spectrum indicated that Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 could launch green 500–560 nm and red 650–700 nm, 525, 550 and 660 nm peaks corresponding to 2H11/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2 and 4H9/2 → 4I15/2 transition of Er3+. Doping Co and N enhanced the upconversion luminescence and absorption effect. Sonocatalytic degradation effect of organic dyes loading Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 was better when ultrasonic intensity was equal to 15 W cm–2. The degradation ratios of aqueous solutions of these three kinds of organic dyes by ultrasonic irradiation were obviously lower than by ultrasonic irradiation together with Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 films in the same conditions. Degradation kinetics of organic dyes by ultrasonic irradiation and by ultrasonic irradiation cooperating with Co/N/Er3+ : Y3Al5O12/TiO2 films followed the first-order reaction.

  16. Mechanical properties of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}-doped W-Ti alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aguirre, M.V. [Departamento de Tecnologias Especiales Aplicadas a la Aeronautica, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Escuela de Ingenieria Aeronautica y del Espacio, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Martin, A.; Pastor, J.Y. [Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales-CISDEM, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, E. T. S. de Ingenieros de Caminos, 28040 Madrid (Spain); LLorca, J., E-mail: jllorca@mater.upm.e [Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales-CISDEM, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, E. T. S. de Ingenieros de Caminos, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Instituto Madrileno de Estudios Avanzados de Materiales (Instituto IMDEA Materiales), C/ Profesor Aranguren s/n, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganes (Spain)

    2010-09-30

    W and W alloys are currently considered promising candidates for plasma facing components in future fusion reactors but most of the information on their mechanical properties at elevated temperature was obtained in the 1960s and 1970s. In this investigation, the strength and toughness of novel Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}-doped W-Ti alloys manufactured by powder metallurgy were measured from 25 {sup o}C up to 1000 {sup o}C in laboratory air and the corresponding deformation and failure micromechanisms were ascertained from analyses of the fracture surfaces. Although the materials were fairly brittle at ambient temperature, the strength and toughness increased with temperature and Ti content up to 600 {sup o}C. Beyond this temperature, oxidation impaired the mechanical properties but the presence of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} enhanced the strength and toughness retention up to 800 {sup o}C.

  17. Resistance switching at the interface of LaAlO3/SrTiO3

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Chen, Yunzhong; Zhao, J.L.; Sun, J.R.

    2010-01-01

    At the interface of LaAlO3/SrTiO3 with film thickness of 3 unit cells or greater, a reproducible electric-field-induced bipolar resistance switching of the interfacial conduction is observed on nanometer scale by a biased conducting atomic force microscopy under vacuum environment. The switching ...

  18. Microstructure and tensile properties of in situ synthesized (TiB+Y2O3)/Ti composites at elevated temperature

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Geng Ke; Lu Weijie; Zhang Di

    2003-01-01

    A novel titanium matrix composites reinforced with TiB and rare earth oxides (Y 2 O 3 ) were prepared by a non-consumable arc-melting technology. Microstructures of the composites were observed by means of optical microscope (OM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to identify the phases in the composites. There are three phases: TiB, Y 2 O 3 and titanium matrix alloy. TiB grows in needle shape, whereas Y 2 O 3 grows from near-equiaxed shape to dendritic shape with increase of yttrium content in the composite. The interfaces between reinforcements and titanium matrix are very clear. There is no interfacial reaction. Tensile properties of the composites were tested at 773, 823 and 873 K. Both the fracture surfaces and longitudinal sections of the fractured tensile specimens were comprehensively examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The fracture mode and fracture process at different temperatures were analyzed and explained. The results show that the tensile strength of the composites has a significant improvement at elevated temperatures. The predominant fracture mode of composites is cleavaged at 773 and 823 K. Fracture occurs by ductile failure at 873 K

  19. Processing and thin film formation of TiO{sub 2}-Pt nanocomposites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Es-Souni, M.; Kartopu, G.; Habouti, S.; Piorra, A.; Solterbeck, C.H. [Institute for Materials and Surface Technology, Kiel University of Applied Sciences, Grenzstr. 3, 24149 Kiel (Germany); Es-Souni, Mar.; Brandies, H.F. [Faculty of Dentistry, Christian-Albrecht University, Kiel (Germany)

    2008-02-15

    Thin films of TiO{sub 2}-Pt nanocomposites containing 4 at% Pt have been processed via spin-coating. Film characterization involved XRD, Raman as well as XPS and scanning surface potential microscopy (SSPM). After annealing at 500 C the thin films consisted of nanocrystalline anatase and a few nm Pt nanoclusters. Annealing at 600 C resulted in the formation of a high volume fraction of rutile, {proportional_to}70%, and a coarsening of the microstructure, including Pt nanoparticles which attained a mean particle size of up to 11 nm. These results contrasted with those of pure TiO{sub 2} films obtained at 600 C which showed only a limited amount of rutile formation, namely 9%. Raman spectra of Pt-containing samples exhibited a fluorescence emission, as background to the Raman features, which was attributed to photoinduced luminescence from Pt nanoparticles supported by their surface plasmon resonance. Emission intensity being much higher in 600 C film indicated a difference between the two films in terms of the (Pt) particle size and crystallinity, in agreement with the XRD results. XPS investigations revealed different oxidation states of Pt at the surface and in the film interior. The spectra suggested a slight oxidation of Pt at the surface while mainly metallic Pt was revealed in the film interior. The morphology and distribution of the Pt nanoparticles in the films annealed at 600 C were investigated using SSPM. Discrete Pt nanoparticles, mainly distributed in the vicinity of TiO{sub 2} grain boundaries were revealed. Nanocomposite film formation, Pt distribution and morphology are explained in terms of the limited solubility of Pt in the TiO{sub 2} lattice and its higher surface energy in comparison to that of TiO{sub 2}. Both effects are believed to lead to the formation of Pt nanoparticles at the (anatase or rutile) grain boundaries. (copyright 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  20. Ba{sub y}Sr{sub 1−y}TiO{sub 3} buffer layers for strain tuning of infinite-layer Sr{sub 1−x}La{sub x}CuO{sub 2} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sakuma, Keita, E-mail: sakuma.keita@d.mbox.nagoya-u.ac.jp; Ito, Masataka; He, Yilun; Hajiri, Tetsuya; Ueda, Kenji; Asano, Hidefumi

    2016-08-01

    We report on the precise tuning of lattice strain in an infinite-layer electron-doped high temperature superconductor Sr{sub 1−x}La{sub x}CuO{sub 2} (SLCO; a{sub SLCO} = 0.3949 nm for x = 0.1), which is a perovskite-related oxide, using perovskite BaTiO{sub 3}–SrTiO{sub 3} (BSTO; Ba{sub y}Sr{sub 1−y}TiO{sub 3}) buffer layers. The BSTO buffer layers formed on (001) (La{sub 0.18}Sr{sub 0.82})(Al{sub 0.59}Ta{sub 0.41})O{sub 3} substrates by magnetron sputtering were fully relaxed with high crystalline quality due to high oxygen partial pressure deposition and post annealing at 950 °C. The lattice constants of the BSTO buffer layers could be controlled in the range of 0.3926–0.3973 nm by changing the Ba content (y = 0.2–0.7). These BSTO buffer layers allow coherent growth of SLCO thin films, and a clear dependence of the superconducting transition temperature on the lattice strain was observed. The fabrication of these BSTO/superconductor heterostructures may provide novel devices composed of functional perovskite thin films, in addition to a general approach for the precise control of lattice strain in functional perovskite thin films. - Highlights: • Ba{sub y}Sr{sub 1−y}TiO{sub 3} buffer layers were developed for the strain tuning of perovskite-related oxides. • Strain effect in Sr{sub 1−x}La{sub x}CuO{sub 2} was investigated by using Ba{sub y}Sr{sub 1−y}TiO{sub 3} buffer layers. • Ba{sub y}Sr{sub 1−y}TiO{sub 3} buffer layers can be used to tune the strain in other perovskite oxides.

  1. Factors influencing formation of highly dispersed BaTiO3 nanospheres with uniform sizes in static hydrothermal synthesis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gao, Jiabing; Shi, Haiyue; Dong, Huina; Zhang, Rui; Chen, Deliang

    2015-01-01

    Highly dispersed BaTiO 3 nanospheres with uniform sizes have important applications in micro/nanoscale functional devices. To achieve well-dispersed spherical BaTiO 3 nanocrystals, we carried out as reported in this paper the systematic investigation on the factors that influence the formation of BaTiO 3 nanospheres by the static hydrothermal process, including the NaOH concentrations [NaOH], molar Ba/Ti ratios (R Ba/Ti ), hydrothermal temperatures, and durations, with an emphasis on understanding the related mechanisms. Barium nitrate and TiO 2 sols derived from tetrabutyl titanate were used as the starting materials. The as-synthesized BaTiO 3 samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, thermogravimetry, differential thermal analysis, and FT-IR spectra. The highly dispersed BaTiO 3 nanospheres (76 ± 13 nm) were achieved under the optimum hydrothermal conditions at 200 °C for 10 h: [NaOH] = 2.0 mol L −1 and R Ba/Ti  = 1.5. Higher NaOH concentrations, higher Ba/Ti ratios, higher hydrothermal temperatures, and longer hydrothermal durations are favorable in forming BaTiO 3 nanospheres with larger fractions of tetragonal phase and higher yields; but too long hydrothermal durations resulted in abnormal growth and reduced the uniformity in particle sizes. The possible formation mechanisms for BaTiO 3 nanocrystals under the static hydrothermal conditions were investigated

  2. ADSORCIÓN DE ALDEHÍDOS INSATURADOS SOBRE TiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Natalia Ortega

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available En el presente trabajo se estudió la adsorción de aldehídos insaturados sobre la superficie del TiO2. Para evaluar su eficiencia como catalizador, se realizaron experimentos de fotocatálisis heterogénea de p-nitrofenol (PNF y una muestra proveniente de efluentes industriales. Se empleó un simulador solar y cuatro sistemas de TiO2: el TiO2-sólo (sin modificar y los sistemas TiO2-dienal constituidos por la adsorción química de 2,4 hexadienal, 2,4 heptadienal y el trans-cinamaldehído sobre la superficie del TiO2. La adsorción de los aldehídos insaturados sobre el TiO2 se cuantificó empleando los modelos de adsorción de Langmuir y Freundlich. Se evaluó la influencia del pH en los sistemas TiO2-dienal y su efecto en la degradación fotocatalítica del PNF. En condiciones básicas, la constante de velocidad del PNF es mayor al emplear los sistemas TiO2-dienal en comparación con el TiO2-sólo, mientras que en condiciones ácidas se encontró la tendencia opuesta. El sistema TiO2-cina resultó ser el fotocatalizador de mayor eficiencia.

  3. Preparación y propiedades de materiales cerámicos bioinertes en el sistema Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Boccaccini, A. R.

    1998-12-01

    Full Text Available Very fine and sinterable ceramic powders (100-600 nm in the system Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2 were obtained by the method of cohydrolisis from organo-metallic precursors. Isostatically pressed powder compacts could be densified to a relative high density (~ 92 % th. density at relative low temperatures (1320-1380ºC. The technical coefficient of thermal expansion was measured by dilatometry. The value obtained (8.8 10-6 1/ºC corresponds closely to that of Ti, opening the possibility to use Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2 ceramics to fabricate metal/ceramic composite implants. The measured mechanical properties of dense sintered Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2 material: Young´s modulus, flexure strength and compression strength, are higher than those of pure TiO2. Highly porous Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2 ceramics (P~ 65% were obtained by the method of evaporation of hydrogen peroxide. These materials exhibited interconnected porosity and their properties, particularly the Young´s modulus, resulted very similar to those of bone, which is an important pre-requisite for the design of quirurgical implants.Se han obtenido polvos cerámicos muy finos (100- 600 nm y de alta sinterabilidad, en el sistema Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2, por el método de co-hidrólisis controlada a partir de precursores organo-metálicos. Los compactos fabricados a partir del polvo de cohidrólisis calcinado fueron sinterizados en el rango de temperaturas 1320-1380 ºC, obteniéndose densidades elevadas (~ 92% D.T.. El coeficiente de expansión térmica técnico del material cerámico sinterizado fue medido por dilatometría. El valor obtenido, 8.8 10-6 ºC-1, es muy similar al de titanio metálico y por lo tanto el material cerámico Al2O3-TiO2-SiO2 puede ser candidato para la fabricación de implantes compuestos cerámico/metal. Las propiedades mecánicas: módulo de elasticidad, resistencia a la flexión y resistencia a la compresión, del material denso sinterizado, fueron determinadas, resultando muy superiores a las de TiO2 puro

  4. High pressure synthesis of amorphous TiO2 nanotubes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Quanjun Li

    2015-09-01

    Full Text Available Amorphous TiO2 nanotubes with diameters of 8-10 nm and length of several nanometers were synthesized by high pressure treatment of anatase TiO2 nanotubes. The structural phase transitions of anatase TiO2 nanotubes were investigated by using in-situ high-pressure synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD method. The starting anatase structure is stable up to ∼20GPa, and transforms into a high-density amorphous (HDA form at higher pressure. Pressure-modified high- to low-density transition was observed in the amorphous form upon decompression. The pressure-induced amorphization and polyamorphism are in good agreement with the previous results in ultrafine TiO2 nanoparticles and nanoribbons. The relationship between the LDA form and α-PbO2 phase was revealed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM study. In addition, the bulk modulus (B0 = 158 GPa of the anatase TiO2 nanotubes is smaller than those of the corresponding bulks and nanoparticles (180-240 GPa. We suggest that the unique open-ended nanotube morphology and nanosize play important roles in the high pressure phase transition of TiO2 nanotubes.

  5. Fotocatálisis con TiO2/ultravioleta y TiO2 CuSO4/visible como sistemas de desinfección para inactivar E. coli proveniente de agua residual doméstica

    OpenAIRE

    Villanueva Jaramillo, Carolina

    2011-01-01

    El proceso de interés fue la fotocatálisis heterogénea con TiO2. Se elaboraron películas con el TiO2, sinterizadas a diferentes temperaturas, por la técnica sol-gel/sedimentación. Se realizó una caracterización física mediante: XRD, SEM, barrido UV-Vis y EDS. Por XRD se encontró para películas sol-gel la fase cristalina anatasa con planos (101), (004), (200), (105) y (211) el control TiO2 USP presentó las fases anatasa y rutilo. La mayor formación de agregados se observó en películas control ...

  6. Synthesis of high efficient Cu/TiO2 photocatalysts by grinding and their size-dependent photocatalytic hydrogen production

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ni, Dawei; Shen, Haiyan; Li, Huiqiao; Ma, Ying; Zhai, Tianyou

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Cu nanodots were decorated on TiO 2 surface through ball milling method. • Its size distribution was investigated in water and ethanolic medium. • Photocurrent response and hydrogen evolution was improved. • Performance was found to be dependent on size of Cu nanodots. - Abstract: Recently, copper species have been extensively investigated to replace Pt as efficient co-catalysts for the evolution of H 2 due to their low cost and relatively high activity. Cu nanoparticles less than 5 nm are successfully decorated on TiO 2 surface in this work by an easy and mild milling process. These Cu nanoparticles are highly dispersed on TiO 2 when the loading amount of Cu is no more than 10 wt%. The sizes of Cu nanoparticles can be controlled by changing the milling environment and decrease in the order of Cu-ethanol > Cu-water > Cu nanoparticles obtained through drying milling. The highest and stable hydrogen generation can be realized on Cu/TiO 2 with 2.0 wt% Cu and sizes of Cu nanoparticles ranging from 2 to 4 nm, in which high and stable photocurrent confirms promoted photogenerated charge separation. Smaller Cu clusters are demonstrated to be detrimental to hydrogen evolution at same Cu content. High loading of Cu nanoparticles of 2–4 nm will benefit photogenerated electron-hole recombination and thus decrease the activity of Cu/TiO 2 . The results here demonstrate the key roles of Cu cluster size in addition to Cu coverage on photocatalytic activity of Cu/TiO 2 composite photocatalysts.

  7. Effect of photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide by N-Zr co-doped nano TiO2.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Ru; Wang, Li; Kang, Zhuo; Li, Qiang; Pan, Huixian

    2017-11-01

    Modified sol-gel method was adopted to prepare TiO 2 , Zr-TiO 2 and N/Zr-TiO 2 composite catalyst. The as-synthesized photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Brunner- Emmet- Teller measurement and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. And the photocatalytic performance toward CO 2 reduction was evaluated under ultraviolet light. The catalyst particles were demonstrated in the nanometer level size. When N and Zr are co-doped, on the one hand, Ti 4+ can be replaced by Zr 4  +, which leads to lattice distortion and inhibits electron-hole recombination. On the other hand, N enters into TiO 2 lattice gap to form O-Ti-N bond structure, and partial Ti 4+ are reduced to Ti 3+ . Compared with pristine TiO 2 , the specific surface area and the band gap of N/Zr-TiO 2 were improved and reduced, respectively. The N and Zr synergistically contribute to the obviously strengthened absorption intensity in visible region, as well as significantly improved photocatalytic activity. In the gas phase reactor, when the calcination temperature was 550°C, 0.125N/0.25Zr-TiO 2 composite performed the highest photocatalytic activity UV irradiation for 8 h, and the corresponding CH 4 yield was 11.837 µmol/g, which was 87.8% higher than that of pristine TiO 2 . For the visible light, the CH 4 yield was 9.003 µmol/g after 8 h irradiation, which was 83.9% higher than that of pristine TiO 2 .

  8. Theory of Nanocluster Size Distributions from Ion Beam Synthesis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yuan, C.W.; Yi, D.O.; Sharp, I.D.; Shin, S.J.; Liao, C.Y.; Guzman, J.; Ager III, J.W.; Haller, E.E.; Chrzan, D.C.

    2008-06-13

    Ion beam synthesis of nanoclusters is studied via both kinetic Monte Carlo simulations and the self-consistent mean-field solution to a set of coupled rate equations. Both approaches predict the existence of a steady state shape for the cluster size distribution that depends only on a characteristic length determined by the ratio of the effective diffusion coefficient to the ion flux. The average cluster size in the steady state regime is determined by the implanted species/matrix interface energy.

  9. Synthesis of TiO2 nanorod-decorated graphene sheets and their highly efficient photocatalytic activities under visible-light irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Eunwoo; Hong, Jin-Yong; Kang, Haeyoung; Jang, Jyongsik

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► TiO 2 nanorods were successfully decorated on the surface of graphene sheets. ► Population of TiO 2 nanorods can be controlled by changing experimental conditions. ► TiO 2 nanorod-decorated graphene sheets have an expanded light absorption range. ► TiO 2 nanorod-decorated graphene sheets showed unprecedented photocatalytic activity. - Abstract: The titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanorod-decorated graphene sheets photocatalysts with different TiO 2 nanorods population have been synthesized by a simple non-hydrolytic sol–gel approach. Electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the TiO 2 nanorods are well-dispersed and successfully anchored on the graphene sheet surface through the formation of covalent bonds between Ti and C atoms. The photocatalytic activities are evaluated in terms of the efficiencies of photodecomposition and adsorption of methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solution under visible-light irradiation. The as-synthesized TiO 2 nanorod-decorated graphene sheets showed unprecedented photodecomposition efficiency compared to the pristine TiO 2 nanorods and the commercial TiO 2 (P-25, Degussa) under visible-light. It is believed that this predominant photocatalytic activity is due to the synergistic contribution of both a retarded charge recombination rate caused by a high electronic mobility of graphene and an increased surface area originated from nanometer-sized TiO 2 nanorods. Furthermore, photoelectrochemical study is performed to give deep insights into the primary roles of graphene that determines the photocatalytic activity.

  10. Microstructures and properties of TiN reinforced Co-based composite coatings modified with Y_2O_3 by laser cladding on Ti–6Al–4V alloy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Weng, Fei; Yu, Huijun; Chen, Chuanzhong; Liu, Jianli; Zhao, Longjie

    2015-01-01

    In this study, TiN reinforced composite coatings were fabricated on Ti–6Al–4V substrate by laser cladding with Co42 self-fluxing alloy, TiN and Y_2O_3 mixed powders. Microstructures and wear resistance of the cladding coatings with and without Y_2O_3 addition were investigated comparatively. Results showed that the coatings were mainly comprised of γ-Co/Ni, TiN, CoTi, CoTi_2, NiTi, TiC, Cr_7C_3, TiB, Ti_5Si_3 and TiC_0_._3N_0_._7 phases. The coatings showed metallurgical bonding free of pores and cracks with the substrate. Compared with the Ti–6Al–4V substrate, the microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings was enhanced by 3–4 times and 9.5–11.9 times, respectively. With 1.0 wt.% Y_2O_3 addition, the microstructure of the coating was refined significantly, and the microhardness and dry sliding wear resistance were enhanced further. The effects of Y_2O_3 were attributed to the residual Y_2O_3 and decomposed Y atoms. - Graphical abstract: The diagram illustration for the action mechanism of Y_2O_3: (a) dissolution of Y_2O_3 and TiN, (b) re-formation of TiN and in situ formation of TiC, (c) growth of TiN, TiC and the distribution of Y atoms. - Highlights: • Coatings showing metallurgical bonding with the substrate were fabricated. • The effect of Y_2O_3 on the refinement of the microstructure is notable. • A kind of Y_2O_3 centered core–shell structure was picked out in the coating. • Microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings was enhanced significantly.

  11. X-ray diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy characterization of intermetallics formed in Fe/Ti nanometer-scale multilayers during thermal annealing

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wu, Z.L.; Peng, T.X.; Cao, B.S.; Lei, M.K.

    2009-01-01

    Intermetallics formation in the Fe/Ti nanometer-scale multilayers magnetron-sputtering deposited on Si(100) substrate during thermal annealing at 623-873 K was investigated by using small and wide angle X-ray diffraction and cross-sectional high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The Fe/Ti nanometer-scale multilayers were constructed with bilayer thickness of 16.2 nm and the sublayer thickness ratio of 1:1. At the annealing temperature of 623 K, intermetallics FeTi were formed by nucleation at the triple joins of α-Fe(Ti)/α-Ti interface and α-Ti grain boundary with an orientational correlation of FeTi(110)//α-Ti(100) and FeTi[001]//α-Ti[001] to adjacent α-Ti grains. The lateral growth of intermetallics FeTi which is dependent on the diffusion path of Ti led to a coalescence into an intermetallic layer. With an increase in the annealing temperature, intermetallics Fe 2 Ti were formed between the intermetallics FeTi and the excess Fe due to the limitation of Fe and Ti atomic concentrations, resulting in the coexistence of intermetallics FeTi and Fe 2 Ti. It was found that the low energy interface as well as the dominant diffusion path constrained the nucleation and growth of intermetallics during interfacial reaction in the nanometer-scale metallic multilayers.

  12. Synthesis of Y2O2S:Eu3+, Mg2+, Ti4+ hollow microspheres via homogeneous precipitation route

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Peng-Fei Ai, Ying-Liang Liu, Li-Yuan Xiao, Hou-Jin Wang and Jian-Xin Meng

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available A phosphorescent material in the form of Y2O2S:Eu3+, Mg2+, Ti4+ hollow microspheres was prepared by homogeneous precipitation using monodispersed carbon spheres as hard templates. Y2O3:Eu3+ hollow microspheres were first synthesized to serve as the precursor. Y2O2S:Eu3+, Mg2+, Ti4+ powders were obtained by calcinating the precursor in a CS2 atmosphere. The crystal structure, morphology and optical properties of the composites were characterized. X-ray diffraction measurements confirmed the purity of the Y2O2S phase. Electron microscopy observations revealed that the Y2O2S:Eu3+, Mg2+, Ti4+ particles inherited the hollow spherical shape from the precursor after being calcined in a CS2 atmosphere and that they had a diameter of 350–450 nm and a wall thickness of about 50–80 nm. After ultraviolet radiation at 265 or 325 nm for 5 min, the particles emitted strong red long-lifetime phosphorescence originating from Eu3+ ions. This phosphorescence is associated with the trapping of charge carriers by Ti4+ and Mg2+ ions.

  13. Improved performance of a dye-sensitized solar cell using a TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y electrode

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Seok-Soon; Yum, Jun-Ho; Sung, Yung-Eun [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kwangju Institute of Science and Technology(K-JIST), Kwangju 500-712 (Korea, Republic of)

    2003-09-30

    TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y structure films were prepared by a one-step cathodic electrodeposition method and used as a photoanode in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Using this TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y electrode in DSSC, the degradation of the cell with time was reduced and I{sub SC}, V{sub OC} and fill factor values were increased. The use of a thin ZnO layer, permitted the formation of an energy barrier at the electrode/electrolyte interface, thus reducing recombination rate and improving cell performance. In addition, the adsorbed dye molecules prepared by one-step cathodic electrodeposition with ZnO were very stable compared with that prepared by conventional immersing method, as evidenced by UV/vis absorption spectroscopy measurements.

  14. Improved performance of a dye-sensitized solar cell using a TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y electrode

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Seoksoon Kim; Junho Yum; Yungeun Sung [Kwangju Inst. of Science and Technology (K-JIST), Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, Kwangju (Korea)

    2003-09-30

    TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y structure films were prepared by a one-step cathodic electrodeposition method and used as a photoanode in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Using this TiO{sub 2}/ZnO/Eosin Y electrode in DSSC, the degradation of the cell with time was reduced and I{sub sc}, V{sub oc} and fill factor values were increased. The use of a thin ZnO layer, permitted the formation of an energy barrier at the electrode/electrolyte interface, thus reducing recombination rate and improving cell performance. In addition, the adsorbed dye molecules prepared by one-step cathodic electrodeposition with ZnO were very stable compared with that prepared by conventional immersing method, as evidenced by UV /vis absorption spectroscopy measurements. (Author)

  15. A graphene–SnO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2} ternary nanocomposite electrode as a high stability lithium-ion anode material

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liang, Jicai [Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025 (China); Roll Forging Research Institute, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025, Jilin (China); Wang, Juan; Zhou, Meixin; Li, Yi [Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025 (China); Wang, Xiaofeng [State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012 (China); Yu, Kaifeng, E-mail: yukf@jlu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Automobile Materials, Ministry of Education, and College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025 (China)

    2016-07-15

    In this work, a solvothermal method combined with a hydrothermal two-step method is developed to synthesize graphene–SnO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2} ternary nanocomposite, in which the nanometer-sized TiO{sub 2} and SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles form in situ uniformly anchored on the surface of graphene sheets, as high stability and capacity lithium-ion anode materials. Compared to graphene–TiO{sub 2}, bulk TiO{sub 2} and grapheme–SnO{sub 2} composites, the as-prepared nanocomposite delivers a superior rate performance of 499.3 mAhg{sup −1} at 0.2 C and an outstanding stability cycling capability (1073.4 mAhg{sup −1} at 0.2 C after 50 cycles), due to the synergistic effects contributed from individual components, for example, high specific capacity of SnO{sub 2}, excellent conductivity of 3D graphene networks. - Graphical abstract: Graphene–SnO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite is synthesized by a hydrothermal two-step method. The composite exhibits higher reversible capacity and better cycle/rate performance due to the unique structure. - Highlights: • We have synthesized a graphene–SnO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite by a two-step method to improve the cycling performance. • Graphene–SnO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite is synthesized by a hydrothermal two-step method. • The composite exhibits higher reversible capacity and better cycle/rate performance due to the unique structure.

  16. Efecto de las nanopartículas industriales TiO 2 , SiO 2 y ZnO sobre la viabilidad celular y expresión génica en médula ósea roja de mus musculus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jacquelyne Zarria-Romero

    Full Text Available RESUMEN Objetivos Evaluar el efecto de las nanopartículas de ZnO, TiO2 y SiO2 sobre la viabilidad celular y la expresión génica de las interleuquinas 7 y 3 y del factor estimulante de colonias de granulocito - macrófago (GM-CSF en Mus musculus. Materiales y métodos Se extrajo médula ósea roja de cinco roedores (Balb/c para el estudio de viabilidad celular mediante la prueba de MTT. Por otro lado, grupos cinco roedores fueron inoculados vía intraperitoneal con dosis de 0,5; 1; 2,5; 5 y 10 mg/kg de nanopartículas de ZnO y SiO2 y de 5; 10; 15; 20 y 25 mg/kg de nanopartículas de TiO2, 30 h después, se obtuvo el ARN a partir de la médula ósea roja para los análisis de expresión génica empleando las técnicas de PCR y RT-PCR cuantitativa. Resultados Las nanopartículas de ZnO y SiO2 redujeron la viabilidad celular de una manera dosis-dependiente en un 37 y 26%, respectivamente, a partir de una dosis de 1 mg/kg. En cuanto al efecto sobre la expresión génica, a las dosis 5 y 10 mg/kg, las nanopartículas de TiO2 redujeron en mayor porcentaje la expresión de las interleuquinas 7 y 3 (55,3 y 70,2% respectivamente, con respecto a la expresión del GM-CSF, el mayor porcentaje de reducción lo produjo las nanopartículas de SiO2 (91%. Las nanopartículas de ZnO redujeron a partir de las dosis de 20 y 25 mg/kg. Conclusiones Las nanopartículas de ZnO, SiO2 y TiO2 alteran la viabilidad celular y la expresión génica en la médula ósea de ratón.

  17. The cation-deficient Ruddlesden-Popper oxysulfide Y2Ti2O5S2 as a layered sulfide: topotactic potassium intercalation to form KY2Ti2O5S2.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Rutt, Oliver J; Hill, Timothy L; Gál, Zoltán A; Hayward, Michael A; Clarke, Simon J

    2003-12-01

    Potassium intercalation into the cation-deficient n = 2 Ruddlesden-Popper oxysulfide Y(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2) to form KY(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2) has been carried out by reaction of the oxysulfide with potassium vapor in sealed metal tubes at 400 degrees C, potassium naphthalide in THF at 50 degrees C, or potassium in liquid ammonia at temperatures as low as -78 degrees C. Insertion of potassium is topotactic, and although a site 12-coordinate by oxide ions is vacant in the perovskite-type oxide slabs of the structure, potassium is too large to enter this site via the 4-coordinate window, and instead enters the rock-salt-type sulfide layers of the structure which necessitates a 30% increase in the lattice parameter c normal to the layers. In contrast with one of the sodium intercalates of Y(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2) (beta-NaY(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2)) in which sodium occupies a tetrahedral site in the sulfide layers, potassium favors an 8-coordinate site which necessitates a relative translation of adjacent oxide slabs. KY(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2) is tetragonal: P4/mmm, a = 3.71563(4) A, c = 14.8682(2) A (at 298 K), Z = 1. Although the resistivity (3.4(1) x 10(3) Omega cm) is larger than would be expected for a metal, temperature independent paramagnetism dominates the magnetic susceptibility, and the material is electronically very similar to the analogous sodium intercalate beta-NaY(2)Ti(2)O(5)S(2) which features reduced-titanium-containing oxide layers of very similar geometry and electron count.

  18. Microstructural changes of Y-doped V-4Cr-4Ti alloys after ion and neutron irradiation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    H. Watanabe

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available High-purity Y-doped V-4Cr-4Ti alloys (0.1–0.2wt. % Y, manufactured by the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS, were used for this study. Heavy-ion and fission-neutron irradiation was carried out at temperatures 673–873K. During the ion irradiation at 873K, the microstructure was controlled by the formation of Ti(C,O,N precipitates lying on the (100 plane. Y addition effectively suppressed the growth of Ti(C,O,N precipitates, especially at lower dose irradiation to up to 4 dpa. However, at higher dose levels (12.0 dpa, the number density was almost at the same levels irrespective of the presence of Y. After neutron irradiation at 873K, fine titanium oxides were also observed in all V alloys. However, smaller oxide sizes were observed in the Y-doped samples under the same irradiation conditions. The detailed analysis of EDS showed that the center of the Ti(C,O,N precipitates was mainly enriched by nitrogen. The results showed that the contribution of not only oxygen atoms picked up from the irradiation environment but also nitrogen atoms is essential to understand the microstructural evolution of V-4Cr-4Ti-Y alloys.

  19. Aqueous Hg(2+) associates with TiO2 nanoparticles according to particle size, changes particle agglomeration, and becomes less bioavailable to zebrafish.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Boran, Halis; Boyle, David; Altinok, Ilhan; Patsiou, Danae; Henry, Theodore B

    2016-05-01

    Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) have unique physicochemistry and potential to interact with other substances in the aqueous phase. Here, gene [metallothionein 2 (mt2)] expression changes in larval zebrafish were used to evaluate the association between aqueous Hg(2+) and TiO2 (NPs and bulk particle size control) to investigate the relationship between changes in Hg(2+) behavior and TiO2 size. During 24h exposures, TiO2 agglomerates increased in size and in the presence of 25μg Hg(2+)/L, greater increases in size were observed. The concentration of Hg(2+) in suspension also decreased in the presence of TiO2-NPs. Mercury increased expression of mt2 in larval zebrafish, but this response was lessened when zebrafish were exposed to Hg(2+) in the presence of TiO2-NPs, and which suggests that TiO2-NPs alter the bioavailability of Hg(2+) to zebrafish larvae. This ameliorative effect of TiO2 was also likely due to surface binding of Hg(2+) because a greater decrease in mt2 expression was observed in the presence of 1mg/L TiO2-NPs than 1mg/L TiO2-bulk. In conclusion, the results show that Hg(2+) will associate with TiO2-NPs, TiO2-NPs that have associated Hg(2+) will settle out of the aqueous phase more rapidly, and agglomerates will deliver associated Hg(2+) to sediment surfaces. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Effect of sunlight irradiation on photocatalytic pyrene degradation in contaminated soils by micro-nano size TiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chang Chien, S.W.; Chang, C.H.; Chen, S.H.; Wang, M.C.; Madhava Rao, M.; Satya Veni, S.

    2011-01-01

    The enhanced catalytic pyrene degradation in quartz sand and alluvial and red soils by micro-nano size TiO 2 in the presence and absence of sunlight was investigated. The results showed that the synergistic effect of sunlight irradiation and TiO 2 was more efficient on pyrene degradation in quartz sand and red and alluvial soils than the corresponding reaction system without sunlight irradiation. In the presence of sunlight irradiation, the photooxidation (without TiO 2 ) of pyrene was very pronounced in alluvial and red soils and especially in quartz sand. However, in the absence of sunlight irradiation, the catalytic pyrene degradation by TiO 2 and the photooxidation (without TiO 2 ) of pyrene were almost nil. This implicates that ultra-violet (UV) wavelength range of sunlight plays an important role in TiO 2 -enhanced photocatalytic pyrene degradation and in photooxidation (without TiO 2 ) of pyrene. The percentages of photocatalytic pyrene degradation by TiO 2 in quartz sand, alluvial and red soils under sunlight irradiation were 78.3, 23.4, and 31.8%, respectively, at 5 h reaction period with a 5% (w/w) dose of the amended catalyst. The sequence of TiO 2 -enhanced catalytic pyrene degradation in quartz sand and alluvial and red soils was quartz sand > red soil > alluvial soil, due to different texture and total organic carbon (TOC) contents of the quartz sand and other two soils. The differential Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra of degraded pyrene in alluvial soil corroborate that TiO 2 -enhanced photocatalytic degradation rate of degraded pyrene was much greater than photooxidation (without TiO 2 ) rate of degraded pyrene. Based on the data obtained, the importance for the application of TiO 2 -enhanced photocatalytic pyrene degradation and associated organic contaminants in contaminated soils was elucidated. - Highlights: → Synergistic effect of sunlight irradiation and TiO 2 promoted degradation of pyrene. → Micro-nano size TiO 2 enhanced

  1. Crystallite size variation of TiO_2 samples depending time heat treatment

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Galante, A.G.M.; Paula, F.R. de; Montanhera, M.A.; Pereira, E.A.; Spada, E.R.

    2016-01-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO_2) is an oxide semiconductor that may be found in mixed phase or in distinct phases: brookite, anatase and rutile. In this work was carried out the study of the residence time influence at a given temperature in the TiO_2 powder physical properties. After the powder synthesis, the samples were divided and heat treated at 650 °C with a ramp up to 3 °C/min and a residence time ranging from 0 to 20 hours and subsequently characterized by x-ray diffraction. Analyzing the obtained diffraction patterns, it was observed that, from 5-hour residence time, began the two-distinct phase coexistence: anatase and rutile. It also calculated the average crystallite size of each sample. The results showed an increase in average crystallite size with increasing residence time of the heat treatment. (author)

  2. Microwave absorption properties of polypyrrole-SrFe12O19-TiO2-epoxy resin nanocomposites: Optimization using response surface methodology

    Science.gov (United States)

    Seyed Dorraji, M. S.; Rasoulifard, M. H.; Amani-Ghadim, A. R.; Khodabandeloo, M. H.; Felekari, M.; Khoshrou, M. R.; hajimiri, I.

    2016-10-01

    At a few works are discussed about formation of heterogeneous composites with different distribution of particle shape and size that are used for electromagnetic absorption purposes. In this study a novel heterogeneous nanocpmposites is investigated. The nanocomposite has been successfully prepared based on epoxy resin including various nano-metal oxides (TiO2, SrFe12O19) and polypyrrole (PPy) by sol-gel and the solution chemistry method, respectively. The performance of prepared nanocomposite in absorption of microwave in X-band range was investigated and transmission line method by X-band waveguide straight was used to measure EM parameters of nanocomposites. The Response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) was utilized to study the effects of the wt.% TiO2 in SrFe12O19, wt.% Tio2-SrFe12O19 in PPy and wt.% TiO2-SrFe12O19-PPy in epoxy resin, on the microwave absorption properties with the absorber thickness of only 2 mm. The proposed quadratic model was in accordance with the experimental results with correlation coefficient of 96.5%. The optimum condition for maximum microwave absorption efficiency were wt.% TiO2 in SrFe12O19 of 70, wt.% TiO2-SrFe12O19 in PPy of 10 and wt.% TiO2-SrFe12O19-PPy in epoxy of 25. The sample prepared in optimal conditions indicated reflection loss of -15 dB corresponding to 97% absorption, at the range of 9.2-10.8 GHz.

  3. Properties of TiO2 prepared by acid treatment of BaTiO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Okada, Kiyoshi; Yanagisawa, Tomoki; Kameshima, Yoshikazu; Nakajima, Akira

    2007-01-01

    TiO 3 powders were prepared by acid treatment of BaTiO 3 and their properties were investigated. The BaTiO 3 powder was subjected to HNO 3 in concentrations ranging from 10 -3 to 8 M at 90 deg. C for 0.5-6 h. Dissolution of BaTiO 3 and precipitation of TiO 2 occurred at acid concentrations of 2-5 M. BaTiO 3 dissolves completely to form a clear solution at reaction times of 0.5-1 h, but a rutile precipitate is formed after 2 h of acid treatment. By contrast, anatase is precipitated by adjusting the pH of the clear solution to 2-3 using NaOH or NH 4 OH solution. The rutile crystals were small and rod-shaped, consisting of many small coherent domains connected by grain boundaries with small inclination angles and edge dislocations, giving them a high specific surface area (S BET ). With increasing HNO 3 concentration, the S BET value increased from 100 to 170 m 2 /g while the crystallite size decreased from 25 to 11 nm. The anatase crystals obtained here were very small equi-axial particles with a smaller crystallite size than the rutile and S BET values of about 270 m 2 /g (higher than the rutile samples). The photocatalytic activity of these TiO 2 was determined from the decomposition rate of Methylene Blue under ultraviolet irradiation. Higher decomposition rates were obtained with larger crystallite sizes resulting from heat treatment. The maximum decomposition rates were obtained in samples heated at 500-600 deg. C. The photocatalytic activity of the TiO 2 was found to depend more strongly on the sample crystallite size than on S BET

  4. Effect of Y2O3 on microstructure and mechanical properties of hypereutectic Al-20% Si alloy

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    YANG Ya-feng; XU Chang-lin; WANG Hui-yuan; LIU Chang; JIANG Qi-chuan

    2006-01-01

    The effect of Y2O3 on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the hypereutectic Al-20%Si(mass fraction) alloy was investigated. The results show that, with the addition of Y2O3 into the Al-P-Ti-TiC modifier, the average size of primary silicon in th.e Al-20%Si alloy modified by Al-P-Ti-TiC-Y2O3 modifier (approximately 15μm or less) is significantly reduced, and the morphology of eutectic silicon changes from coarse acicular and plate like to refined fibrous. The Brinell hardness (HB189) and tensile strength (301 MPa) of Al-20%Si alloy modified by the Al-P-Ti-TiC-Y2O3 increase by 11.6% and 10.7%, respectively, for the alloys afrer heat treatment.

  5. Mechanosynthesis of nanocrystalline CaTi1-xMnxO3-δ

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Figueiredo, F. M.

    2008-08-01

    Full Text Available The mechanosynthesis of nanocrystalline CaTi1-xMnxO3-δ is reported for the first time. Powdered CaO, TiO2 anatase and Mn2O3 (Aldrich were weighed in the appropriate stoichiometric quantities in order to obtain CaTi1-xMnxO3-δ (x=0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.30, 0.50 and 0.80 and dry milled in a planetary high-energy ball mill, using zirconia containers and balls, with a 10:1 ball/mass ratio. The planetary rotation was kept constant at 650 rpm and the container at 1300 rpm, in the opposite direction. Powder XRD patterns revealed a perovskite forming from the early milling stages and a completed reaction after 180 min, with no apparent crystalline or amorphous intermediates, indicating significant Mn solubility in CaTiO3. Patterns show a decrease in lattice volume upon Mn substitution, as expected from the lower Mn3+ or Mn4+ ionic radii when compared to Ti4+. The average crystallite size is in the range 5-30 nm, as determined from Williamson-Hall plots and confirmed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy.La mecanosíntesis de CaTi1-xMnxO3-δ nanocristalino es presentada por primera vez. Polvos reactivos de CaO, TiO2 anatasa y Mn2O3 (Aldrich fueron pesados en las cantidades estequiométricas adecuadas para obtener CaTi1-xMnxO3-δ (x=0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.30, 0.50 y 0.80 por molienda en seco en un molino planetario de alta energía utilizando contenedores y bolas de circona, en una relación masa de bolas : masa de polvo de 10:1. La rotación del planetario se mantuvo constante a 650 revoluciones por minuto (rpm y la del contenedor a 1300 rpm, en el sentido inverso. La formación de una fase con estructura de perovskita fue identificada a través del análisis de los polvos por difracción de rayos X, siendo esta fase claramente mayoritaria en los polvo molidos durante 180 min y sin observarse la formación de compuestos intermediarios. Los patrones de difracción de rayos X también indicaron una disminución de los parámetro de red

  6. Nanometer sized structures grown by pulsed laser deposition

    KAUST Repository

    ElZein, Basma

    2015-10-01

    Nanometer sized materials can be produced by exposing a target to a laser source to remove material from the target and deposit the removed material onto a surface of a substrate to grow a thin film in a vacuum chamber

  7. High pressure synthesis of amorphous TiO{sub 2} nanotubes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Quanjun; Liu, Ran; Wang, Tianyi; Xu, Ke; Dong, Qing; Liu, Bo; Liu, Bingbing, E-mail: liubb@jlu.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Superhard Materials, Jilin University, Changchun 130012 (China); Liu, Jing [Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China)

    2015-09-15

    Amorphous TiO{sub 2} nanotubes with diameters of 8-10 nm and length of several nanometers were synthesized by high pressure treatment of anatase TiO{sub 2} nanotubes. The structural phase transitions of anatase TiO{sub 2} nanotubes were investigated by using in-situ high-pressure synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. The starting anatase structure is stable up to ∼20GPa, and transforms into a high-density amorphous (HDA) form at higher pressure. Pressure-modified high- to low-density transition was observed in the amorphous form upon decompression. The pressure-induced amorphization and polyamorphism are in good agreement with the previous results in ultrafine TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles and nanoribbons. The relationship between the LDA form and α-PbO{sub 2} phase was revealed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) study. In addition, the bulk modulus (B{sub 0} = 158 GPa) of the anatase TiO{sub 2} nanotubes is smaller than those of the corresponding bulks and nanoparticles (180-240 GPa). We suggest that the unique open-ended nanotube morphology and nanosize play important roles in the high pressure phase transition of TiO{sub 2} nanotubes.

  8. ADSORCIÓN DE ALDEHÍDOS INSATURADOS SOBRE TiO2

    OpenAIRE

    Natalia Ortega; Oswaldo Núñez

    2012-01-01

    En el presente trabajo se estudió la adsorción de aldehídos insaturados sobre la superficie del TiO2. Para evaluar su eficiencia como catalizador, se realizaron experimentos de fotocatálisis heterogénea de p-nitrofenol (PNF) y una muestra proveniente de efluentes industriales. Se empleó un simulador solar y cuatro sistemas de TiO2: el TiO2-sólo (sin modificar) y los sistemas TiO2-dienal constituidos por la adsorción química de 2,4 hexadienal, 2,4 heptadienal y el trans-cinamaldehído sobre la ...

  9. Hierarchical domain structure of lead-free piezoelectric (Na{sub 1/2} Bi{sub 1/2})TiO{sub 3}-(K{sub 1/2} Bi{sub 1/2})TiO{sub 3} single crystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Luo, Chengtao, E-mail: lchentao@vt.edu; Wang, Yaojin; Ge, Wenwei; Li, Jiefang; Viehland, Dwight [Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061 (United States); Delaire, Olivier [Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 (United States); Li, Xiaobin; Luo, Haosu [Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 215 Chengbei Road, Jiading, Shanghai 201800 (China)

    2016-05-07

    We report a unique hierarchical domain structure in single crystals of (Na{sub 1/2}Bi{sub 1/2})TiO{sub 3}-xat. %(K{sub 1/2}Bi{sub 1/2})TiO{sub 3} for x = 5 and 8 by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A high density of polar nano-domains with a lamellar morphology was found, which were self-assembled into a quadrant-like configuration, which then assembled into conventional ferroelectric macro-domains. Studies by high resolution TEM revealed that the polar lamellar regions contained a coexistence of in-phase and anti-phase oxygen octahedral tilt regions of a few nanometers in size. Domain frustration over multiple length scales may play an important role in the stabilization of the hierarchy, and in reducing the piezoelectric response of this Pb-free piezoelectric solid solution.

  10. Sizing protein-templated gold nanoclusters by time resolved fluorescence anisotropy decay measurements

    Science.gov (United States)

    Soleilhac, Antonin; Bertorelle, Franck; Antoine, Rodolphe

    2018-03-01

    Protein-templated gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) are very attractive due to their unique fluorescence properties. A major problem however may arise due to protein structure changes upon the nucleation of an AuNC within the protein for any future use as in vivo probes, for instance. In this work, we propose a simple and reliable fluorescence based technique measuring the hydrodynamic size of protein-templated gold nanoclusters. This technique uses the relation between the time resolved fluorescence anisotropy decay and the hydrodynamic volume, through the rotational correlation time. We determine the molecular size of protein-directed AuNCs, with protein templates of increasing sizes, e.g. insulin, lysozyme, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The comparison of sizes obtained by other techniques (e.g. dynamic light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering) between bare and gold clusters containing proteins allows us to address the volume changes induced either by conformational changes (for BSA) or the formation of protein dimers (for insulin and lysozyme) during cluster formation and incorporation.

  11. Sizing protein-templated gold nanoclusters by time resolved fluorescence anisotropy decay measurements.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Soleilhac, Antonin; Bertorelle, Franck; Antoine, Rodolphe

    2018-03-15

    Protein-templated gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) are very attractive due to their unique fluorescence properties. A major problem however may arise due to protein structure changes upon the nucleation of an AuNC within the protein for any future use as in vivo probes, for instance. In this work, we propose a simple and reliable fluorescence based technique measuring the hydrodynamic size of protein-templated gold nanoclusters. This technique uses the relation between the time resolved fluorescence anisotropy decay and the hydrodynamic volume, through the rotational correlation time. We determine the molecular size of protein-directed AuNCs, with protein templates of increasing sizes, e.g. insulin, lysozyme, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The comparison of sizes obtained by other techniques (e.g. dynamic light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering) between bare and gold clusters containing proteins allows us to address the volume changes induced either by conformational changes (for BSA) or the formation of protein dimers (for insulin and lysozyme) during cluster formation and incorporation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. TiN{sub x}O{sub y}/TiN dielectric contrasts obtained by ion implantation of O{sub 2}{sup +}; structural, optical and electrical properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Punzon Quijorna, E; Torres Costa, V; Climent, A; Manso Silvan, M [Departamento de Fisica Aplicada. Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Agullo-Rueda, F; Herrero Fernandez, P [Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid, CSIC, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Rossi, F [Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, Joint Research Center, 21020 Ispra (Vatican City State, Holy See) (Italy)

    2011-06-15

    The properties of TiN can be gradually transformed by O{sub 2}{sup +} implantations in the 10-40 keV range and fluences in the 5 x 10{sup 13}-5 x 10{sup 16} cm{sup -2} range. The resulting structure consists of shallow TiN{sub x}O{sub y}(TiNO)/TiN contrasts with increased resistivity on the top layer. In fact, oxygen actively replaces nitrogen in the implanted TiN region as illustrated by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. N substitutions and vacancies in the lattice induce structural distortions and strain generation as illustrated by x-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The influence of these modifications in the optical and electrical properties was characterized by spectroscopic ellipsometry and four probe resistivity measurements. The proposed process, especially at the lower energy, is liable to help in the creation of electrical/photonic structures based in shallow TiNO/TiN electric/dielectric contrasts.

  13. Hierarchical TiO{sub 2} submicron-sized spheres for enhanced power conversion efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Hao [Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062 (China); State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000 (China); Guo, Zhiguang, E-mail: zguo@licp.cas.cn [Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062 (China); State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000 (China)

    2015-10-15

    Hierarchical TiO{sub 2} submicron-sized sphere scattering layer, with relatively large surface area and effective light scattering, shows enhanced power conversion efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells. - Highlights: • Hierarchical TiO{sub 2} submicron-sized spheres (TiO{sub 2} HSSs) with diameters of 400–600 nm were synthesized. • The HSSs composed of nanoparticles of ∼14 nm have a relatively large surface area of ∼35 m{sup 2}/g. • DSC exhibited the highest cell efficiency (6.23%) compared with ones with pure P25 (5.50%) or HSS (2.00%) photoanodes. - Abstract: Hierarchical TiO{sub 2} submicron-sized spheres (TiO{sub 2} HSSs) with diameters of 400–600 nm were synthesized by a facile one-step solvothermal method in ethanol solvent. The HSSs composed of nanoparticles of ∼14 nm have a relatively large surface area of ∼35 m{sup 2}/g. When applied as the scattering overlayer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), such TiO{sub 2} HSSs effectively improved light harvesting and led to the increase of photocurrent in DSCs. Furthermore, bilayer-structured photoanode also provided fast electron transportation and long electron lifetime as confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectra. As a result, DSC based on P25 nanoparticle underlayer and HSS-2 overlayer exhibited the highest cell efficiency (6.23%) compared with ones with pure P25 (5.50%) or HSS-2 (2.00%) photoanodes.

  14. Synthesis of high efficient Cu/TiO2 photocatalysts by grinding and their size-dependent photocatalytic hydrogen production

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ni, Dawei; Shen, Haiyan; Li, Huiqiao; Ma, Ying; Zhai, Tianyou

    2017-07-01

    Recently, copper species have been extensively investigated to replace Pt as efficient co-catalysts for the evolution of H2 due to their low cost and relatively high activity. Cu nanoparticles less than 5 nm are successfully decorated on TiO2 surface in this work by an easy and mild milling process. These Cu nanoparticles are highly dispersed on TiO2 when the loading amount of Cu is no more than 10 wt%. The sizes of Cu nanoparticles can be controlled by changing the milling environment and decrease in the order of Cu-ethanol > Cu-water > Cu nanoparticles obtained through drying milling. The highest and stable hydrogen generation can be realized on Cu/TiO2 with 2.0 wt% Cu and sizes of Cu nanoparticles ranging from 2 to 4 nm, in which high and stable photocurrent confirms promoted photogenerated charge separation. Smaller Cu clusters are demonstrated to be detrimental to hydrogen evolution at same Cu content. High loading of Cu nanoparticles of 2-4 nm will benefit photogenerated electron-hole recombination and thus decrease the activity of Cu/TiO2. The results here demonstrate the key roles of Cu cluster size in addition to Cu coverage on photocatalytic activity of Cu/TiO2 composite photocatalysts.

  15. Synthesis of nanocomposite coating based on TiO2/ZnAl layer double hydroxides; Síntesis de un revestimiento nanocompuesto basado en TiO2 / ZnAl hidróxidos dobles en capas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jovanov, V.; Rudic, O.; Ranogajec, J.; Fidanchevska, E.

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this investigation was the synthesis of nanocomposite coatings based on Zn-Al layered double hydroxides (Zn-Al LDH) and TiO2. The Zn-Al LDH material, which acted as the catalyst support of the active TiO2 component (in the content of 3 and 10 wt. %), was synthesized by a low super saturation co-precipitation method. The interaction between the Zn-Al LDH and the active TiO2 component was accomplished by using vacuum evaporation prior to the mechanical activation and only by mechanical activation. The final suspension based on Zn-Al LDH and 10wt. % TiO2, impregnated only by mechanical activation, showed the optimal characteristics from the aspect of particle size distribution and XRD analysis. These properties had a positive effect on the functional properties of the coatings (photocatalytic activity and self-cleaning efficiency) after the water rinsing procedure. [Spanish] El objetivo de esta investigación fue la preparación de recubrimientos de nanocompuestos basados en Zn-Al hidróxidos dobles en capas (Zn-Al LDH) y TiO2. El material de LDH Zn-Al, que actuaba como catalizador del componente activo TiO2 (en el contenido de 3 y 10 en peso.%), se sintetizó por un método de co-precipitación con baja sobresaturación. La interacción entre el Zn-Al LDH y el componente activo TiO2 se llevó a cabo mediante el uso de la evaporación al vacío antes de la activación mecánica y sólo por activación mecánica. La suspensión final basada en Zn-Al LDH y 10wt. % TiO2, impregnada solamente por la activación mecánica, mostró las características óptimas desde el aspecto de la distribución de tamaño de partícula y análisis de XRD. Estas propiedades tenían un efecto positivo sobre las propiedades funcionales de los revestimientos (actividad fotocatalítica y eficiencia de auto-limpieza) después del procedimiento de aclarado de agua.

  16. Synthesis of high efficient Cu/TiO{sub 2} photocatalysts by grinding and their size-dependent photocatalytic hydrogen production

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ni, Dawei; Shen, Haiyan; Li, Huiqiao; Ma, Ying; Zhai, Tianyou, E-mail: yingma@hust.edu.cn

    2017-07-01

    Highlights: • Cu nanodots were decorated on TiO{sub 2} surface through ball milling method. • Its size distribution was investigated in water and ethanolic medium. • Photocurrent response and hydrogen evolution was improved. • Performance was found to be dependent on size of Cu nanodots. - Abstract: Recently, copper species have been extensively investigated to replace Pt as efficient co-catalysts for the evolution of H{sub 2} due to their low cost and relatively high activity. Cu nanoparticles less than 5 nm are successfully decorated on TiO{sub 2} surface in this work by an easy and mild milling process. These Cu nanoparticles are highly dispersed on TiO{sub 2} when the loading amount of Cu is no more than 10 wt%. The sizes of Cu nanoparticles can be controlled by changing the milling environment and decrease in the order of Cu-ethanol > Cu-water > Cu nanoparticles obtained through drying milling. The highest and stable hydrogen generation can be realized on Cu/TiO{sub 2} with 2.0 wt% Cu and sizes of Cu nanoparticles ranging from 2 to 4 nm, in which high and stable photocurrent confirms promoted photogenerated charge separation. Smaller Cu clusters are demonstrated to be detrimental to hydrogen evolution at same Cu content. High loading of Cu nanoparticles of 2–4 nm will benefit photogenerated electron-hole recombination and thus decrease the activity of Cu/TiO{sub 2}. The results here demonstrate the key roles of Cu cluster size in addition to Cu coverage on photocatalytic activity of Cu/TiO{sub 2} composite photocatalysts.

  17. Role of dopant concentration, crystal phase and particle size on microbial inactivation of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sahu, Manoranjan; Wu Bing; Zhu Liying; Jacobson, Craig; Wang Weining; Jones, Kristen; Goyal, Yogesh; Tang, Yinjie J; Biswas, Pratim, E-mail: pbiswas@wustl.edu [Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO 63130 (United States)

    2011-10-14

    The properties of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (NPs) were independently controlled in a flame aerosol reactor by varying the molar feed ratios of the precursors, and by optimizing temperature and time history in the flame. The effect of the physico-chemical properties (dopant concentration, crystal phase and particle size) of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles on inactivation of Mycobacterium smegmatis (a model pathogenic bacterium) was investigated under three light conditions (complete dark, fluorescent light and UV light). The survival rate of M. smegmatis (in a minimal salt medium for 2 h) exposed to the NPs varied depending on the light irradiation conditions as well as the dopant concentrations. In dark conditions, pristine TiO{sub 2} showed insignificant microbial inactivation, but inactivation increased with increasing dopant concentration. Under fluorescent light illumination, no significant effect was observed for TiO{sub 2}. However, when TiO{sub 2} was doped with copper, inactivation increased with dopant concentration, reaching more than 90% (>3 wt% dopant). Enhanced microbial inactivation by TiO{sub 2} NPs was observed only under UV light. When TiO{sub 2} NPs were doped with copper, their inactivation potential was promoted and the UV-resistant cells were reduced by over 99%. In addition, the microbial inactivation potential of NPs was also crystal-phase-and size-dependent under all three light conditions. A lower ratio of anatase phase and smaller sizes of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} NPs resulted in decreased bacterial survival. The increased inactivation potential of doped TiO{sub 2} NPs is possibly due to both enhanced photocatalytic reactions and leached copper ions.

  18. Synthesis and photoluminescence of Ca-(Sn,Ti)-Si-O compounds

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Abe, Shunsuke; Yamane, Hisanori; Yoshida, Hisashi

    2010-01-01

    The phase relation of the compounds prepared in the CaO-SnO 2 -SiO 2 system at 1673 K and in the CaO-TiO 2 -SiO 2 system at 1573 K was investigated in order to explore new Ti 4+ -activated stannate phosphors. Solid solutions of Ca(Sn 1-x Ti x )SiO 5 and Ca 3 (Sn 1-y Ti y )Si 2 O 9 were synthesized at x = 0-1.0 and y = 0-0.10, respectively, and their crystal structures were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction. Photoluminescence of these solid solutions was observed in a broad range of a visible light wavelength region under ultraviolet (UV) light excitation. The peaks of the emission band of Ca(Sn 0.97 Ti 0.03 )SiO 5 and Ca 3 (Sn 0.925 Ti 0.075 )Si 2 O 9 were at 510 nm under excitation of 252 nm and at 534 nm under excitation of 258 nm, respectively. The absorption edges estimated by the diffuse reflectance spectra were at 300 nm (4.1 eV) for CaSnSiO 5 and at 270 nm (4.6 eV) for Ca 3 SnSi 2 O 9 , suggesting that the excitation levels in Ca(Sn 1-x Ti x )SiO 5 were above the band gap of the host, although the levels in Ca 3 (Sn 1-y Ti y )Si 2 O 9 were within the band gap and near the conduction band edge.

  19. Fabrication and characterization of laminated Ti-(TiB+La2O3/Ti composite

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yuanfei Han

    2015-10-01

    Full Text Available The incorporation of ceramic particulate reinforcements into titanium alloys can improve the specific strength and specific stiffness, while inevitably reduce the plasticity and ductility. In this study, in situ synthesized multilayer Ti-(TiB+La2O3/Ti composite was designed by learning from the microstructure of nature biological materials with excellent mechanical properties. The Ti-(TiB+La2O3/Ti composite with unique characteristic of laminated structure was prepared by combined powder metallurgy and hot rolling. The method has the synthesize advantages with in-situ reaction of Ti and LaB6 at high temperature and controllability of reinforcements size and constituent phases in composites. The result shows that the pores in the as sintered laminated structure composite completely disappeared after hot rolling at 1050 °C. The agglomerated reinforcement particles were well dispersed and distributed uniformly along the rolling direction. The thickness of pure Ti layer and (TiB+La2O3/Ti composite layer decreased from 1 mm to about 200 μm. Meanwhile, the grains size was refined obviously after rolling deformation. The room temperature tensile test indicates that the elongation of the laminated Ti-(TiB+La2O3/Ti composite improved from 13% to 17% in comparison with the uniform (TiB+La2O3/Ti composite, while the tensile strength had little change. It provides theoretical and experimental basis for fabricating the novel high performance laminated Ti-(TiB+La2O3/Ti composites.

  20. Mechanical properties of tungsten alloys with Y2O3 and titanium additions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aguirre, M.V.; Martin, A.; Pastor, J.Y.; LLorca, J.; Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R.

    2011-01-01

    In this research the mechanical behaviour of pure tungsten (W) and its alloys (2 wt.% Ti-0.47 wt.% Y 2 O 3 and 4 wt.% Ti-0.5 wt.% Y 2 O 3 ) is compared. These tungsten alloys, have been obtained by powder metallurgy. The yield strength, fracture toughness and elastic modulus have been studied in the temperature interval of 25 deg. C to 1000 deg. C. The results have shown that the addition of Ti substantially improves the bending strength and toughness of W, but it also dramatically increases the DBTT. On the other hand, the addition of 0.5% Y 2 O 3 , is enough to improve noticeably the oxidation behaviour at the higher temperatures. The grain size, fractography and microstructure are studied in these materials. Titanium is a good grain growth inhibitor and effective precursor of liquid phase in HIP. The simultaneous presence of Y 2 O 3 and Ti permits to obtain materials with low pores presence.

  1. Growth and size distribution of Au nanoparticles in annealed Au/TiO{sub 2} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Reymond-Laruinaz, S.; Saviot, L.; Potin, V. [Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Carnot de Bourgogne (ICB), UMR 6303 CNRS-Université de Bourgogne, 9 Av. A. Savary, BP 47 870, F-21078 Dijon Cedex (France); Lopes, C.; Vaz, F. [Centro de Física, Universidade do Minho, 4710-057 Braga (Portugal); Marco de Lucas, M.C., E-mail: delucas@u-bourgogne.fr [Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Carnot de Bourgogne (ICB), UMR 6303 CNRS-Université de Bourgogne, 9 Av. A. Savary, BP 47 870, F-21078 Dijon Cedex (France)

    2014-02-28

    Nanocomposites consisting of noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in TiO{sub 2} thin films are of great interest for applications in optoelectronics, photocatalysis and solar-cells for which the plasmonic properties of the metal NPs play a major role. This work investigates the first stages of the formation of gold NPs by thermal annealing of Au-doped TiO{sub 2} thin films grown by magnetron sputtering. A low concentration of gold in the films is considered (5 at.%) in order to study the first stages of the formation of the NPs. Raman spectroscopy is used to follow the crystallization of TiO{sub 2} when increasing the annealing temperature. In addition, low-frequency Raman scattering (LFRS) is used to investigate the formation of gold NPs and to determine their size. Resonant LFRS measurements obtained by using a laser wavelength matching the surface plasmon resonance of the metallic NPs significantly enhances the Raman peak intensity enabling to focus on the first stages of the NPs formation. A double size distribution is observed at T{sub a} = 800 °C calling for additional investigations by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM observations reveal an inhomogeneous in-depth size distribution of gold NPs. The annealed films are structured in two sublayers with bigger NPs at the bottom and smaller NPs at the top. At T{sub a} = 800 °C, a double size distribution is confirmed near the surface. A mechanism is proposed to explain the formation of the sublayers. The modification of the diffusion of gold atoms by stresses in the film near the substrate is assumed to be responsible for the observed two layers structure. - Highlights: • Gold-doped TiO{sub 2} thin films were grown by magnetron sputtering. • The first stages of the formation of Au nanoparticles after annealing are studied. • Au nanoparticles and crystallized TiO{sub 2} are observed above 400 °C. • The size distribution of the gold nanoparticles is complex and depth-dependent.

  2. Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} based breeder ceramics with Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3}, LiAlO{sub 2} and Li{sub X}La{sub Y}TiO{sub 3} additions, part II: Pebble properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kolb, M.H.H., E-mail: Matthias.kolb@kit.edu [Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Applied Materials, PO Box 3640, 76021, Karlsruhe (Germany); Knitter, R. [Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Applied Materials, PO Box 3640, 76021, Karlsruhe (Germany); Hoshino, T. [Breeding Functional Materials Development Group, Department of Blanket Systems Research, Rokkasho Fusion Institute, Fusion Energy Research and Development Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) (Japan)

    2017-02-15

    Highlights: • The mechanical strength of Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4}-based breeder pebbles can be improved by adding either LMT, LAO or LLTO as second phase. • The increase in strength is closely linked to a reduction of the open porosity of the pebbles. • All fabricated pebbles show a highly homogenous microstructure with mostly low closed porosity. • Adding LLTO, although it decomposes during sintering, greatly improves the strength of the pebbles. - Abstract: The pebble properties of novel two-phase Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} pebbles of 1 mm diameter with additions of Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3}, LiAlO{sub 2} or Li{sub x}La{sub y}TiO{sub 3} are evaluated in this work as a function of the second phase concentration and the microstructure of the pebbles. The characterization focused on the mechanical strength, microstructure and open as well as closed porosity. Therefore crush load tests, SEM analyses as well as helium pycnometry and optical image analysis were performed, respectively. This work shows that generally additions of a second phase to Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} considerably improve the mechanical strength. It also shows that the fabrication processes have to be well-controlled to achieve high mechanical strengths. When Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3} is added in different concentrations, the determinant for the crush load seems to be the open porosity of the pebbles. The strengthening effect of LiAlO{sub 2} compared to Li{sub 2}TiO{sub 3} is similar, while additions of Li{sub x}La{sub y}TiO{sub 3} increase the mechanical strength much more. Yet, Li{sub 4}SiO{sub 4} and Li{sub x}La{sub y}TiO{sub 3} react with each other to a number of different phases upon sintering. In general the pebble properties of all samples are favorable for use within a fusion breeder blanket.

  3. [Electronic and structural properties of individual nanometer-size supported metallic clusters]. Final performance report

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Reifenberger, R.

    1993-09-01

    This report summarizes the work performed under contract DOE-FCO2-84ER45162. During the past ten years, our study of electron emission from laser-illuminated field emission tips has taken on a broader scope by addressing problems of direct interest to those concerned with the unique physical and chemical properties of nanometer-size clusters. The work performed has demonstrated that much needed data can be obtained on individual nanometer-size clusters supported on a wide-variety of different substrates. The work was performed in collaboration with R.P. Andres in the School of Chemical Engineering at Purdue University. The Multiple Expansion Cluster Source developed by Andres and his students was essential for producing the nanometer-size clusters studied. The following report features a discussion of these results. This report provides a motivation for studying the properties of nanometer-size clusters and summarizes the results obtained.

  4. Size-controllable synthesis of nanosized-TiO2 anatase using porous Vycor glass as template

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mazali, I.O.; Filho, A.G. Souza; Viana, B.C.; Filho, J. Mendes; Alves, O.L.

    2006-01-01

    In this paper we report the synthesis and characterization of TiO 2 nanocrystal dispersed into a porous Vycor glass. We have obtained very small TiO 2 nanocrystals in the anatase form. The nanocrystal size is controlled via the mass increment only thus preventing the growth through the coalescence process. The nanocrystal size was monitored through transmission electron microscope and Raman scattering. The coalescence control is attributed due to the obtention of nanocrystals dispersed into the host and to the terminal bonds present in the porous which act as an anchor thus resulting in a low diffusion of the nanocrystals through the porous network

  5. Kinetic model for transformation from nano-sized amorphous $TiO_2$ to anatase

    OpenAIRE

    Madras, Giridhar; McCoy, Benjamin J

    2006-01-01

    We propose a kinetic model for the transformation of nano-sized amorphous $TiO_2$ to anatase with associated coarsening by coalescence. Based on population balance (distribution kinetics) equations for the size distributions, the model applies a first-order rate expression for transformation combined with Smoluchowski coalescence for the coarsening particles. Size distribution moments (number and mass of particles) lead to dynamic expressions for extent of reaction and average anatase particl...

  6. Local structure distortion induced by Ti dopants boosting the pseudocapacitance of RuO2-based supercapacitors

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, I.-Li; Wei, Yu-Chen; Lu, Kueih-Tzu; Chen, Tsan-Yao; Hu, Chi-Chang; Chen, Jin-Ming

    2015-09-01

    Binary oxides with atomic ratios of Ru/Ti = 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50 were fabricated using H2O2-oxidative precipitation with the assistance of a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) template, followed by a thermal treatment at 200 °C. The characteristics of electron structure and local structure extracted from X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses indicate that incorporation of Ti into the RuO2 lattice produces not only the local structural distortion of the RuO6 octahedra in (Ru-Ti)O2 with an increase in the central Ru-Ru distance but also a local crystallization of RuO2. Among the three binary oxides studied, (Ru70-Ti30)O2 exhibits a capacitance improvement of about 1.4-fold relative to the CTAB-modified RuO2, mainly due to the enhanced crystallinity of the distorted RuO6 structure rather than the surface area effect. Upon increasing the extent of Ti doping, the deteriorated supercapacitive performance of (Ru50-Ti50)O2 results from the formation of localized nano-clusters of TiO2 crystallites. These results provide insight into the important role of Ti doping in RuO2 that boosts the pseudocapacitive performance for RuO2-based supercapacitors. The present result is crucial for the design of new binary oxides for supercapacitor applications with extraordinary performance.Binary oxides with atomic ratios of Ru/Ti = 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50 were fabricated using H2O2-oxidative precipitation with the assistance of a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) template, followed by a thermal treatment at 200 °C. The characteristics of electron structure and local structure extracted from X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses indicate that incorporation of Ti into the RuO2 lattice produces not only the local structural distortion of the RuO6 octahedra in (Ru-Ti)O2 with an increase in the central Ru-Ru distance but also a local crystallization of RuO2. Among the three binary

  7. Electronic structure and size of TiO sub 2 nanoparticles of controlled size prepared by aerosol methods

    CERN Document Server

    Soriano, L; Sanchez-Agudo, M; Sanz, J M; Ahonen, P P; Kauppinen, E I; Palomares, F J; Bressler, P R

    2002-01-01

    A complete characterization of nanostructures has to deal both with electronic structure and dimensions. Here we present the characterization of TiO sub 2 nanoparticles of controlled size prepared by aerosol methods. The electronic structure of these nanoparticles was probed by x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), the particle size by atomic force microscopy (AFM). XAS spectra show that the particles crystallize in the anatase phase upon heating at 500 sup o C, whereas further annealing at 700 sup o C give crystallites of 70 % anatase and 30 % rutile phases. Raising the temperature to 900 sup o C results in a complete transformation of the particles to rutile. AFM images reveal that the mean size of the anatase particles formed upon heating at 500 sup o C is 30 nm, whereas for the rutile particles formed upon annealing at 900 sup o C 90 nm were found. The results obtained by these techniques agree with XRD data. (author)

  8. Microstructures and properties of TiN reinforced Co-based composite coatings modified with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} by laser cladding on Ti–6Al–4V alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Weng, Fei, E-mail: wengfeisdu@126.com [Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Ji' nan 250061 (China); Shandong University, Suzhou Institute, Suzhou 215123 (China); Yu, Huijun, E-mail: yhj2001@sdu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of High-efficiency and Clean Mechanical Manufacture (Ministry of Education), School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Ji' nan 250061 (China); Shandong University, Suzhou Institute, Suzhou 215123 (China); Chen, Chuanzhong, E-mail: czchen@sdu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Ji' nan 250061 (China); Shandong University, Suzhou Institute, Suzhou 215123 (China); Liu, Jianli, E-mail: jianli21s@163.com [Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Ji' nan 250061 (China); Shandong University, Suzhou Institute, Suzhou 215123 (China); Zhao, Longjie, E-mail: zhaoljsdu@sina.com [Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Ji' nan 250061 (China); Shandong University, Suzhou Institute, Suzhou 215123 (China)

    2015-11-25

    In this study, TiN reinforced composite coatings were fabricated on Ti–6Al–4V substrate by laser cladding with Co42 self-fluxing alloy, TiN and Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} mixed powders. Microstructures and wear resistance of the cladding coatings with and without Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} addition were investigated comparatively. Results showed that the coatings were mainly comprised of γ-Co/Ni, TiN, CoTi, CoTi{sub 2}, NiTi, TiC, Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3}, TiB, Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} and TiC{sub 0.3}N{sub 0.7} phases. The coatings showed metallurgical bonding free of pores and cracks with the substrate. Compared with the Ti–6Al–4V substrate, the microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings was enhanced by 3–4 times and 9.5–11.9 times, respectively. With 1.0 wt.% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} addition, the microstructure of the coating was refined significantly, and the microhardness and dry sliding wear resistance were enhanced further. The effects of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} were attributed to the residual Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and decomposed Y atoms. - Graphical abstract: The diagram illustration for the action mechanism of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: (a) dissolution of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and TiN, (b) re-formation of TiN and in situ formation of TiC, (c) growth of TiN, TiC and the distribution of Y atoms. - Highlights: • Coatings showing metallurgical bonding with the substrate were fabricated. • The effect of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} on the refinement of the microstructure is notable. • A kind of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} centered core–shell structure was picked out in the coating. • Microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings was enhanced significantly.

  9. Nanometer-sized emissions from municipal waste incinerators: A qualitative risk assessment

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Johnson, David R., E-mail: david.r.johnson@ghd.com

    2016-12-15

    Municipal waste incinerators (MWI) are beneficial alternatives to landfills for waste management. A recent constituent of concern in emissions from these facilities is incidental nanometer-sized particles (INP{sub MWI}), i.e., particles smaller than 1 micrometer in size that may deposit in the deepest parts of the lungs, cross into the bloodstream, and affect different regions of the body. With limited data, the public may fear INP{sub MWI} due to uncertainty, which may affect public acceptance, regulatory permitting, and the increased lowering of air quality standards. Despite limited data, a qualitative risk assessment paradigm can be applied to determine the relative risk due to INP{sub MWI} emissions. This review compiles existing data on nanometer-sized particle generation by MWIs, emissions control technologies used at MWIs, emission releases into the atmosphere, human population exposure, and adverse health effects of nanometer-sized particles to generate a qualitative risk assessment and identify data gaps. The qualitative risk assessment conservatively concludes that INP{sub MWI} pose a low to moderate risk to individuals, primarily due to the lack of relevant toxicological data on INP{sub MWI} mixtures in ambient particulate matter.

  10. Dispersion and Stabilization of Photocatalytic TiO2 Nanoparticles in Aqueous Suspension for Coatings Applications

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Siti Hajar Othman

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available To produce titanium dioxide (TiO2 nanoparticle coatings, it is desirable that the nanoparticles are dispersed into a liquid solution and remain stable for a certain period of time. Controlling the dispersion and aggregation of the nanoparticles is crucial to exploit the advantages of the nanometer-sized TiO2 particles. In this work, TiO2 nanoparticles were dispersed and stabilized in aqueous suspensions using two common dispersants which were polyacrylic acid (PAA and ammonium polymethacrylate (Darvan C. The effect of parameters such as ultrasonication amplitude and type and amount of dispersants on the dispersibility and stability of the TiO2 aqueous suspensions were examined. Rupture followed by erosion was determined to be the main break up mechanisms when ultrasonication was employed. The addition of dispersant was found to produce more dispersed and more stabilized aqueous suspension. 3 wt.% of PAA with average molecular weight (Mw of 2000 g/mol (PAA 2000 was determined to produce the best and most stable dispersion. The suspensions were then coated on quartz glass, whereby the photocatalytic activity of the coatings was studied via the degradation of formaldehyde gas under UV light. The coatings were demonstrated to be photocatalytically active.

  11. Formation and surface strengthening of nano-meter embedded phases during high energy Ti implanted and annealed steel

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Tonghe; Wu Yuguang; Cui Ping; Wang Ping

    1999-12-01

    Observation of transmission electron microscope indicated that the phase of FeTi 2 with 3.5-20 nm in diameter is embedded in high energy Ti implanted layer. It's average diameter is 8 nm. The nano-meter phases were embedded among dislocations and grain boundary in Ti implanted steel at 400 degree C. The wear resistance has been improved. The embedded structure can be changed obviously after annealing. The structure has been changed slightly after annealing at annealing temperature raging from 350 to 500 degree C, however, the hardness and wear resistance of implanted layer increased greatly. The maximum of hardness is obtained when the sample was annealed at 500 degree C for 20 min. It can be seen that the strengthening of implanted layer has enhanced by annealing indeed. The grain boundary and dislocations have disappeared; the diameter of nano-meter phases increased from 10 nm to 15 nm after annealing at temperature of 750 degree C and 1000 degree respectively. The average densities of nano-meter phases are 8.8 x 10 10 /cm 2 and 6.5 x 10 10 /cm 2 respectively for both of annealing temperature. The hardness decreased obviously when the annealing temperature is greater than 750 degree C

  12. AES, EELS and XPS characterization of Ti(C, N, O) films prepared by PLD using a Ti target in N2, CH4, O2 and CO as reactive gases

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Soto, G.

    2004-01-01

    Titanium-based films were grown on (1 0 0)-Si substrates by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method using a Ti target in reactive atmospheres. The films were grown in vacuum (Ti-film), O 2 (TiO x ), N 2 (TiN x ), CH 4 (TiC x ), CO (TiC x O y ), N 2 +CH 4 (TiC x N y ) and CO+N 2 (TiC x N y O z ). After depositions, every film is characterized in situ by Auger, electron-energy loss and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. For the binary compounds the stoichiometry is regulated without difficulty by gas pressure during ablation. However, for ternary and quaternary compounds there is a tendency to produce chemically inhomogeneous films. For example, the ablation of Ti in a N 2 +CH 4 environment results in a TiNC:C composite. In this case, the overabundance of nitrogen influences the segregation of carbon. In the other hand, the O 2 +CH 4 mixture was ineffectively to produce TiC x O y films, yielding mostly TiO 2 with traces of embedded carbon. By using CO as reactive gas the TiC x O y films were completed. Also, a mixture of CO with N 2 was tested to produce quaternary TiC x N y O z compounds. Based on these results, it is recommended that better control on film stoichiometry and chemical homogeneity can be achieved by using reactive gases with predetermined C:N:O ratios

  13. Study of the stability of the nanometer-sized oxides dispersed in ODS steels under ion irradiations

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lescoat, M.-L.

    2012-01-01

    Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) Ferritic-Martensitic (FM) alloys are expected to play an important role as cladding materials in Generation IV sodium fast reactors operating in extreme temperature (400-500 C) and irradiation conditions (up to 200 dpa). Since nano-oxides give ODS steels their high temperature strength, the stability of these particles is an important issue. The present study evaluates the radiation response of nano-oxides by the use of in-situ and ex-situ ion irradiations performed on both Fe18Cr1W0,4Ti +0,3 Y 2 O 3 and Fe18Cr1W0,4Ti + 0.3 MgO ODS steels. In particular, the results showed that Y-Ti-O nano-oxides are quite stable under very high irradiation dose, namely 219 dpa at 500 C, and that the oxide interfacial structures are likely playing an important role on the behavior under irradiation (oxide stability and point defect recombination. (author) [fr

  14. Nanometer, submicron and micron sized aluminum powder prepared by semi-solid mechanical stirring method with addition of ceramic particles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qin, X.H.; Jiang, D.L.; Dong, S.M.

    2004-01-01

    Composite powder, which is a mixture of Al/Al 2 O 3 composite particles and nanometer, submicron and micron sized aluminum powder, was prepared by semi-solid mechanical stirring method with addition of Al 2 O 3 ceramic particles. The ceramic particles have an average diameter of 80 μm and a volume fraction of 15% in the slurry. The methods used to measure the size distribution of particles greater than 50 μm and less than 50 μm were sieve analysis and photosedimentation, respectively. The surface morphology and transverse sections of the composite powder of different sizes were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM), optical microscope and auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The results indicate that the composite powder prepared in present work have a wide size distribution ranging from less than 50-900 μm, and the aluminum particles and Al/Al 2 O 3 composite particles are separated and isolated. The particles greater than 200 μm and less than 50 μm are almost pure aluminum powder. The rate of conversion of ingot aluminum into particles less than 1 μm containing nanometer and submicron sizes is 1.777 wt.% in this work. The aluminum powder of different sizes has different shape and surface morphology, quasi-spherical in shape with rough surface for aluminum particles of micron scale, irregular in shape for aluminum particles of submicron scale, and quite close to a globular or an excellent globular in shape for aluminum particles of nanometer size. On the other hand, the surface of ceramic particle was coated by aluminum particles with maximum thickness less than 10 μm containing nanometer and submicron sizes as a single layer. It is suggested that the surface of ceramic particles can provide more nucleation sites for solidification of liquid aluminum and the nucleation of liquid aluminum can take place readily, grow and adhere on the surface of ceramic particles, although it is poorly wetted by the liquid aluminum and the semi-solid slurry can

  15. Tunneling-Electron-Induced Light Emission from Single Gold Nanoclusters.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Arthur; Li, Shaowei; Czap, Gregory; Ho, W

    2016-09-14

    The coupling of tunneling electrons with the tip-nanocluster-substrate junction plasmon was investigated by monitoring light emission in a scanning tunneling microscope (STM). Gold atoms were evaporated onto the ∼5 Å thick Al2O3 thin film grown on the NiAl (110) surface where they formed nanoclusters 3-7 nm wide. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) of these nanoclusters revealed quantum-confined electronic states. Spatially resolved photon imaging showed localized emission hot spots. Size dependent study and light emission from nanocluster dimers further support the viewpoint that coupling of tunneling electrons to the junction plasmon is the main radiative mechanism. These results showed the potential of the STM to reveal the electronic and optical properties of nanoscale metallic systems in the confined geometry of the tunnel junction.

  16. Aggregate formation of eosin-Y adsorbed on nanocrystalline TiO2 films

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yaguchi, Kaori; Furube, Akihiro; Katoh, Ryuzi

    2012-11-01

    We have studied the adsorption of eosin-Y on nanocrystalline TiO2 films with two different solvents namely acetonitrile (ACN) and ethanol (EtOH). A Langmuir-type adsorption isotherm was observed with ACN. In contrast, a Freundlich-type adsorption isotherm was observed with EtOH, suggesting that EtOH molecules co-adsorbed on TiO2 surface. Absorption spectra of the dye adsorbed films clearly show aggregate formation at high concentrations of dye in the solutions. From the analysis of the spectra, we conclude that head-to-tail type aggregates are observed with ACN, whereas various types of aggregates, including H-type and head-to-tail type aggregates, are observed with EtOH.

  17. Size dependence of structural, magnetic, and electrical properties in corundum-type Ti2O3 nanoparticles showing insulator–metal transition

    OpenAIRE

    Yoshihiro Tsujimoto; Yoshitaka Matsushita; Shan Yu; Kazunari Yamaura; Tetsuo Uchikoshi

    2015-01-01

    Corundum-type Ti2O3 has been investigated over the last half century because it shows unusual insulator–metal (I-M) transition over a broad temperature range (420–550 K). In this work, we successfully synthesized Ti2O3 nanoparticles (20, 70, 300 nm in size) by the low-temperature reduction between precursors of rutile-type TiO2 and the reductant CaH2, in a non-topotactic manner. The reaction time required for obtaining the reduced phase increases with increasing the particle size. Synchrotron...

  18. Formation Mechanism and Dispersion of Pseudo-Tetragonal BaTiO3-PVP Nanoparticles from Different Titanium Precursors: TiCl4 and TiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jinhui Li

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available Nano-sized tetragonal BaTiO3 (BT particles that are well dispersed in solution are essential for the dielectric layer in multilayer ceramic capacitor technology. A hydrothermal process using TiCl4 and BaCl2, as source of Ti and Ba, respectively, or the precursor TiO2 as seed for the formation of BT, and poly(vinylpyrrolidone (PVP as a surfactant, was employed in this study to enhance both the dispersibility and tetragonality (c/a simultaneously in a single reaction process. The process parameters, i.e., the ratio of TiO2 substitution of TiCl4, the reaction time, and PVP content were systematically studied, and the growth mechanism and relation between the tetragonality and the particle size are discussed. Dynamic light scattering (DLS analysis was used to show that truncated pseudo-tetragonal BT-PVP particles with an average size of 100 nm, having a narrow size distribution and a coefficient of variation (CV as low as 20% and being mono-dispersed in water, were produced. The narrow particle size distribution is attributed to the ability of PVP to inhibit the growth of BT particles, and the high c/a of BT-PVP to heterogeneous particle growth using TiO2 seeds.

  19. Photogenerated cathode protection properties of nano-sized TiO2/WO3 coating

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhou Minjie; Zeng Zhenou; Zhong Li

    2009-01-01

    Nano-sized TiO 2 /WO 3 bilayer coatings were prepared on type 304 stainless steel substrate by sol-gel method. The performance of photo-electrochemical and photogenerated cathode protection of the coating was investigated by the electrochemical method. The results show that the bilayer coating with four TiO 2 layers and three WO 3 layers exhibits the highest photo-electrochemical efficiency and the best corrosion resistance property. Type 304 stainless steel with the coating can maintain cathode protection for 6 h in the dark after irradiation by UV illumination for 1 h. In addition, the mechanism of the photogenerated cathode protection for the bilayer coating was also explored.

  20. Uso de métodos químicos para obtener polvos cerámicos del sistema (Sn, TiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rodríguez-Páez, J E.

    2005-08-01

    Full Text Available The (Sn,TiO2 system has a great interest due to its technological applications such as gas sensor and varistor. Although the thermodynamic properties and the kinetics of spinoidal decomposition in this system have been extensively studied, the general properties and applications of SnO2 – TiO2 binary compositions have been not investigated yet in depth. On the other hand, little work has been done to optimize the synthesis methods to obtain (Sn,TiO2 ceramic powders, with pre – determinate physical and chemical characteristics. In this work the ceramic powders has been obtained by coprecipitation and polymeric precursor (Pechini methods. The different physical chemistry phenomena that occurred during the synthesis were discussed. The (Sn,TiO2 ceramic powders were characterized with X- ray diffraction (XRD, thermal analysis (DTA/ TG and scanning electron microscopy (SEM. The knowledge about of steps and variables of synthesis process acquired with development of this work, we permited to obtain (Sn, TiO2 nanometers particles to low temperatures: to 450°C for coprecipitation method and to 600°C for Pechini method. The spinodal decomposition that ocurr to 900°C was discussed also.El sistema (Sn,TiO2, puro o dopado, tiene gran interés por las potencialidades tecnológicas que presenta como sensor de gas y varistor. A pesar del amplio estudio realizado de este sistema binario, respecto a las propiedades termodinámicas y cinéticas de la descomposición espinoidal que en él se presenta, sus propiedades y sus posibles aplicaciones no se han abordado con profundidad. Por otro lado, se ha realizado muy poco trabajo para optimizar métodos de síntesis que permitan obtener polvos cerámicos de (Sn,TiO2, puro o dopado, con características físicas y químicas pre-determinadas. En este trabajo se realizó la síntesis de polvos cerámicos de este sistema utilizando los métodos de coprecipitación y precursor polimérico (Pechini y se discutieron

  1. The direct synthesis of mesoporous structured MnO2/TiO2 nanocomposite: a novel visible-light active photocatalyst with large pore size

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xue, Min; Huang, Li; Wang, Jian-Qiang; Wang, Ying; Gao, Ling; Zhu, Jian-hua; Zou, Zhi-Gang

    2008-05-01

    A series of visible-light-driven mesoporous structured MnO2/TiO2 nanocrystal photocatalysts have been synthesized through a modified sol-gel method, and the N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm confirms that the mesoporous materials possess large pore size (up to 9.2 nm) and a narrow pore size distribution. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analyses and complementary x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements reveal that the doping of the transition metal Mn inhibits the growth of TiO2 anatase nanocrystals and the Mn species are highly dispersed on the surface of TiO2. The ultraviolet (UV)-vis spectrum demonstrates the excellent adsorption properties of MnO2/TiO2 over the whole region of visible light, which enables this novel photocatalysis material to possess remarkable activity in the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light radiation. Moreover, a 'coating mechanism' based on the nucleation of titania nanocrystals along with the interaction between the dopant precursors and titania clusters has been suggested.

  2. The direct synthesis of mesoporous structured MnO2/TiO2 nanocomposite: a novel visible-light active photocatalyst with large pore size

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xue Min; Huang Li; Wang Jianqiang; Wang Ying; Zou Zhigang; Gao Ling; Zhu Jianhua

    2008-01-01

    A series of visible-light-driven mesoporous structured MnO 2 /TiO 2 nanocrystal photocatalysts have been synthesized through a modified sol-gel method, and the N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherm confirms that the mesoporous materials possess large pore size (up to 9.2 nm) and a narrow pore size distribution. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analyses and complementary x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements reveal that the doping of the transition metal Mn inhibits the growth of TiO 2 anatase nanocrystals and the Mn species are highly dispersed on the surface of TiO 2 . The ultraviolet (UV)-vis spectrum demonstrates the excellent adsorption properties of MnO 2 /TiO 2 over the whole region of visible light, which enables this novel photocatalysis material to possess remarkable activity in the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light radiation. Moreover, a 'coating mechanism' based on the nucleation of titania nanocrystals along with the interaction between the dopant precursors and titania clusters has been suggested

  3. Co-doping TiO{sub 2} with boron and/or yttrium elements: Effects on antimicrobial activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Yuzheng [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenyang University of Technology, Shenyang 110870 (China); Wu, Yusheng, E-mail: henanwys@sina.com [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenyang University of Technology, Shenyang 110870 (China); Yang, He; Xue, Xiangxin; Liu, Zhihua [Institute of Metallurgical Resources and Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819 (China)

    2016-09-15

    Highlights: • B-Y/TiO{sub 2} nano materials firstly applied to the fields of antibacterial materials. • Systems analysis the existence state of boron and yttrium ion in TiO{sub 2}. • Doping B and Y greatly strengthened the antibacterial activity of TiO{sub 2}. - Abstract: Pure TiO{sub 2}, boron and/or yttrium doped TiO{sub 2} nano-materials were synthesized by a sol–gel method and characterized by XRD, SEM, XPS and PL. XRD analysis indicates that, in the pure TiO{sub 2} and B single doped TiO{sub 2} (B-TiO{sub 2}) nano-materials calcinated at 700 °C, the presence of TiO{sub 2} is a mixture of anatase and rutile; in the Y single doped (Y-TiO{sub 2}), B and Y co-doped TiO{sub 2} nano-materials (B/Y-TiO{sub 2}), the presence of TiO{sub 2} is anatase. SEM image shows the prepared materials have a common round morphology and hexagonal plate morphology caused by the agglomeration of particles. Boron atoms are partially embedded into the TiO{sub 2} interstitial structure or incorporated into the TiO{sub 2} lattice through occupying the position of the oxygen atoms. The results of antimicrobial experiment show that B/Y-TiO{sub 2} material has a remarkable antimicrobial activity. Compared with the visible light irradiation, antimicrobial activity of B/Y-TiO{sub 2} in dark is significant poor.

  4. Size Tunable Synthesis of Highly Crystalline BaTiO3 Nanoparticles using Salt-Assisted Spray Pyrolysis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Itoh, Yoshifumi; Lenggoro, I. Wuled; Okuyama, Kikuo; Maedler, Lutz; Pratsinis, Sotiris E.

    2003-01-01

    Highly crystalline, dense BaTiO 3 nanoparticles in a size range from 30 to 360nm with a narrow size distribution (σ g = 1.2-1.4) were prepared at various synthesis temperatures using a salt-assisted spray pyrolysis (SASP) method without the need for post-annealing. The effect of synthesis temperature on particle size, crystallinity and surface morphology of the nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning/transmission electron microscopy. The nature of the crystalline structure was analyzed by Rietveld refinement and Raman spectroscopy. The particle size decreased with decreasing operation temperature. The crystal phase was transformed from tetragonal to cubic at a particles size of about 50nm at room temperature. SASP can be used to produce high weight fraction of tetragonal BaTiO 3 nanoparticles down to 64nm in a single step

  5. Preparation, Study and Modification of Nanometer-Scale Flat TiO2 Surfaces by Electrochemistry and AFM Techniques

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Dihn Thi, M. T.; Cleemann, Lars Nilausen; Welinder, Anne Christina

    In order to study local properties of surfaces, it is necessary to control their preparation mode to get reproducible and well characterized samples. The first part of this work concerns the preparation of TiO2 films on Ti substrates that fulfil these criteria. The TiO2 formed by anodisation of t...

  6. Efecto de la estequiometría y de la temperatura de cocción en el desarrollo de la fase Al2TiO5

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Baptista, J.

    2003-04-01

    Full Text Available Aluminum Titanate (Al2TiO5 due to its low termal expansion coefficient, low wettability and high refractoriness is a promissing refractory ceramic to be in contact with non ferrous metals, specially molten aluminum. Controlled amounts of CaO, SiO2, MgO and ZrO2 are normally added in order to avoid expontaneous decomposition, lower than 1300°C, into its constituint oxides. In this work through the adoption of a new approach, it was investigated the Al2TiO5 phase development and stabilization with respect to stoichiometry and firing temperature. It was found that an excess of Titania (TiO2 helps the development of a stable and purer Aluminum Titanate phase.El Titanato de Aluminio (Al2TiO5 debido a su bajo coeficiente de expansión térmica, elevada refractariedad y baja mojabilidad por metales no ferrosos fundidos, es un material prometedor en la industria del Aluminio para aplicaciones donde se exige contacto con el baño metálico. Aditivos como CaO, SiO2, MgO y ZrO2 son necesarios para evitar la descomposición espontánea del Al2TiO5 en sus óxidos constituyentes a temperaturas inferiores a 1300°C. En este trabajo, se ha investigado el efecto de la estequiometría y de la temperatura de sinterización en el desarrollo y estabilidad de la fase Al2TiO5. Se ha encontrado que un exceso de Óxido de Titanio (TiO2 es beneficioso en la producción de Al2TiO5 puro y estable.

  7. Eosin-Y and N3-Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on novel nanocoral TiO2: A comparative study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mali, Sawanta S.; Betty, C.A.; Bhosale, P.N.; Patil, P.S.

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► Synthesis of novel TiO 2 nanocorals by hydrothermal route. ► Comparative study of Eosin-Y and N3-Dyes. ► The efficiency of N3-Dye is 66% improved to that of Eosin-Y. ► The highest solar energy conversion efficiency 2.37% was observed for N3-Dye loaded DSSCs. - Abstract: Titanium oxide (TiO 2 ) nanocorals containing nanopolyps have been synthesized by a cost effective hydrothermal route directly on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) coated conducting glass substrates. The morphological features and physical properties of TiO 2 films were investigated by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy, room temperature photoluminescence spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The surface morphology revealed the formation of TiO 2 corals having nanosized (30–40 nm) polyps. Further, we have studied its dye sensitized solar cell performance by using Eosin-Y and N3-Dye. The results indicate that the photoconversion efficiency of N3-Dye is 66% compared to that of Eosin-Y. The highest solar energy conversion efficiency of 2.37% was observed for N3-Dye loaded DSSCs.

  8. Experiments of Nanometer Spot Size Monitor at FETB Using Laser Interferometry

    CERN Document Server

    Walz, D

    2003-01-01

    The nanometer spot size monitor based on the laser interferometry has been developed and installed in the final focus test beam (FFTB) line at SLAC. The beam experiments started in September 1993, the first fringe pattern from the monitor was observed in the beginning of April 1994, then the small vertical spot around 70 nm was observed in May 1994. The spot size monitor has been routinely used for tuning the beam optics in FFTB. Basic principle of this monitor has been well proved, and its high performance as a precise beam monitor in nanometer range has been demonstrated.

  9. Thermal infrared and microwave absorbing properties of SrTiO3/SrFe12O19/polyaniline nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hosseini, Seyed Hossein; Zamani, Parisa; Mousavi, S.Y.

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: We have developed a new perspective of applications and properties of conducting polymers. The combination of absorption ability prepared nanocomposites in the present of PANI display a great potential in organization of shielding structures into thermal IR and microwave. Further investigations using other conducting polymers to demonstrate their capability for advance thermal IR and microwave shielding devices is under way. The application of these samples may improve the IR thermographic detection, catalysis, sensors, magnetic data storage, electromagnetic resonance wave absorption, photonic crystals, and microelectronic devices and military aspects. - Highlights: • The SrTiO 3 /SrFe 12 O 19 /PANI exhibited electric and electromagnetic properties. • The SrTiO 3 /SrFe 12 O 19 /PANI has shielding structures into thermal IR and microwave. • Increasing weight ratios and thicknesses will increase thermal IR ability. • Increasing weight ratios and thicknesses will increase microwave absorption ability. - Abstract: Polyaniline (PANI) as a unique polymer that also has electromagnetic absorption used as the substrate. In this research, SrTiO 3 was synthesized as IR absorbent and core and then SrFe 12 O 19 as microwave absorbent was prepared on SrTiO 3 via co-precipitation method as the first shell. As the next step, PANI was coated on SrTiO 3 /SrFe 12 O 19 nanoparticles via in situ polymerization by multi core–shell structures (SrTiO 3 /SrFe 12 O 19 /PANI). Nanometer size and structures of samples were measured by TEM, XRD and FTIR. Morphology of nanocomposite was showed by SEM images. The magnetic and electric properties were also performed by VSM and four probe techniques. Thermal infrared (IR) absorption and microwave reflection loss of nanocomposites were investigated at 10–40 μm and 8–12 GHz, IR and microwave frequencies, respectively. The results showed that the SrTiO 3 /SrFe 12 O 19 /PANI nanocomposites have good compatible

  10. Definition of the size of nanoclusters of silver and palladium in carbon fiber

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Volobuev, V.S.; Bashmakov, I.A.; Lukashevich, S.M.; Tolkacheva, E.A.; Tikhonova, T.F.; Lukashevich, M.G.; Kaputskij, F.N.

    2008-01-01

    Size of palladium and silver nanoclusters is carbon matrix prepared by heart treatment of metal-polymer precursor has been determined by means of XR diffractions study. It was shown that the cluster size increases with increasing annealing temperature from 700 to 900 degree Celsius by factor two. No structuring of carbon matrix was observed under clusters forming. (authors)

  11. Size dependent hcp-to-fcc transition temperature in Co nanoclusters obtained by ion implantation in silica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mattei, G.; Maurizio, C.; Fernandez, C Julian de; Mazzoldi, P.; Battaglin, G.; Canton, P.; Cattaruzza, E.; Scian, C.

    2006-01-01

    In this work we present in situ investigations on the increase of the hcp-to-fcc transition temperature for Co with respect to the bulk value (420 deg. C) when nanoclusters are considered. Starting from Co:SiO 2 composites obtained by ion implantation with average Co cluster size of about 5 nm, a transition temperature between 800 deg. C and 900 deg. C is found upon thermal annealing in vacuum by in situ transmission electron microscopy. Preliminary results on electron irradiation to promote the transition at lower temperatures are presented

  12. Positron confinement in embedded lithium nanoclusters

    Science.gov (United States)

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

    2002-02-01

    Quantum confinement of positrons in nanoclusters offers the opportunity to obtain detailed information on the electronic structure of nanoclusters by application of positron annihilation spectroscopy techniques. In this work, positron confinement is investigated in lithium nanoclusters embedded in monocrystalline MgO. These nanoclusters were created by means of ion implantation and subsequent annealing. It was found from the results of Doppler broadening positron beam analysis that approximately 92% of the implanted positrons annihilate in lithium nanoclusters rather than in the embedding MgO, while the local fraction of lithium at the implantation depth is only 1.3 at. %. The results of two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation confirm the presence of crystalline bulk lithium. The confinement of positrons is ascribed to the difference in positron affinity between lithium and MgO. The nanocluster acts as a potential well for positrons, where the depth of the potential well is equal to the difference in the positron affinities of lithium and MgO. These affinities were calculated using the linear muffin-tin orbital atomic sphere approximation method. This yields a positronic potential step at the MgO||Li interface of 1.8 eV using the generalized gradient approximation and 2.8 eV using the insulator model.

  13. Caracterización estructural y electroquímica de una membrana compuesta de TiO2 y de su soporte poroso basado en arcillas naturales

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rodríguez-Castellón, E.

    2004-02-01

    Full Text Available The manufacture and characterisation of an inorganic composite membrane (MC consisting of a thin layer of TiO2 (atanase phasedeposited on a porous support (SP obtained from natural clay has been carried out. Chemical and structural characterisations have been mainly made by X ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electronic microphotographs. An electrochemical characterisation of both MC and SP membranes has also been carried out by measuring membrane potential and electrical impedance with the membranes in contact with NaCl solutions at different concentrations. The results allow an estimation of structural parameters for the TiO2 sub-layer and they also show the weak anionic character of this sublayer with a cationic permeselectivity around 10%.Se ha fabricado y caracterizado una membrana inorgánica compuesta (MC consistente en una capa delgada de TiO2 (fase atanasa sobre un soporte poroso (SP obtenido a partir de arcillas naturales. La caracterización química y estructural se ha realizado, principalmente, a partir de los resultados de XPS y de microscopía electrónica de barrido. También se ha realizado una caracterización electroquímica de ambas membranas (MC y SP en contacto con disoluciones de NaCl a distintas concentraciones mediante medidas de espectrocopía de impedancias y potencial de membrana. Los resultados han permitido estimar parámetros geométricos de la capa de TiO2 y poner de manifiesto un carácter débilmente aniónico, con una permeselectividad catiónica del 10%.

  14. High resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy characterization of a milled oxide dispersion strengthened steel powder

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Loyer-Prost, M., E-mail: marie.loyer-prost@cea.fr [DEN-Service de Recherches de Métallurgie Physique, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Merot, J.-S. [Laboratoire d’Etudes des Microstructures – UMR 104, CNRS/ONERA, BP72-29, Avenue de la Division Leclerc, 92 322, Châtillon (France); Ribis, J. [DEN-Service de Recherches de Métallurgie Appliquée, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Le Bouar, Y. [Laboratoire d’Etudes des Microstructures – UMR 104, CNRS/ONERA, BP72-29, Avenue de la Division Leclerc, 92 322, Châtillon (France); Chaffron, L. [DEN-Service de Recherches de Métallurgie Appliquée, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Legendre, F. [DEN-Service de la Corrosion et du Comportement des Matériaux dans leur Environnement, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette (France)

    2016-10-15

    Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) steels are promising materials for generation IV fuel claddings as their dense nano-oxide dispersion provides good creep and irradiation resistance. Even if they have been studied for years, the formation mechanism of these nano-oxides is still unclear. Here we report for the first time a High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy and Energy Filtered Transmission Electron Microscopy characterization of an ODS milled powder. It provides clear evidence of the presence of small crystalline nanoclusters (NCs) enriched in titanium directly after milling. Small NCs (<5 nm) have a crystalline structure and seem partly coherent with the matrix. They have an interplanar spacing close to the (011) {sub bcc} iron structure. They coexist with larger crystalline spherical precipitates of 15–20 nm in size. Their crystalline structure may be metastable as they are not consistent with any Y-Ti-O or Ti-O structure. Such detailed observations in the as-milled grain powder confirm a mechanism of Y, Ti, O dissolution in the ferritic matrix followed by a NC precipitation during the mechanical alloying process of ODS materials. - Highlights: • We observed an ODS ball-milled powder by high resolution transmission microscopy. • The ODS ball-milled powder exhibits a lamellar microstructure. • Small crystalline nanoclusters were detected in the milled ODS powder. • The nanoclusters in the ODS milled powder are enriched in titanium. • Larger NCs of 15–20 nm in size are, at least, partly coherent with the matrix.

  15. TiO2-TiO2 composite resistive humidity sensor: ethanol crosssensitivity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ghalamboran, Milad; Saedi, Yasin

    2016-01-01

    The fabrication method and characterization results of a TiO 2 -TiO 2 composite bead used for humidity sensing along with its negative cross-sensitivity to ethanol vapor are reported. The bead shaped resistive sample sensors are fabricated by the drop-casting of a TiO 2 slurry on two Pt wire segments. The dried bead is pre-fired at 750°C and subsequently impregnated with a Ti-based sol. The sample is ready for characterization after a thermal annealing at 600°C in air. Structurally, the bead is a composite of the micron-sized TiO 2 crystallites embedded in a matrix of nanometric TiO 2 particle aggregates. The performance of the beads as resistive humidity sensors is recorded at room temperature in standard humidity level chambers. Results evince the wide dynamic range of the sensors fabricated in the low relative humidity range. While the sensor conductance is not sensitive to ethanol vapor in dry air, in humid air, sensor's responses are negatively affected by the contaminant. (paper)

  16. Synthesis and photoactivity of the highly efficient Ag species/TiO2 nanoflakes photocatalysts

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu Yong; Hu Juncheng; Li Jinlin

    2011-01-01

    Research highlights: → Highly efficient Ag species-TiO 2 nanoflakes catalyst was prepared. → The variety and relative amount of Ag species in TiO 2 can be well tuned. → The enhanced photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the Ag species. - Abstract: Ag species/TiO 2 nanoflakes photocatalysts with different relative contents (Ag + , Ag 2+ , Ag 0 ) have been successfully synthesized by a simple template-free synthetic strategy. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra indicated that the dopant ions (Ag + or Ag 2+ ) were partly incorporated into the titanium dioxide nanoflakes. Meanwhile, part of the silver ions migrated to the surface after the subsequent calcination and aggregated into ultra-small metallic Ag nanoclusters (NCs) (1-2 nm), which are well dispersed on the surface of TiO 2 nanoflakes. The photocatalytic activities of the Ag species/TiO 2 materials obtained were evaluated by testing the photodegradation of the azo dye reactive brilliant X-3B (X-3B) under near UV irradiation. Interestingly, it was found that the maximum photocatalytic efficiency was observed when Ag species coexisted in three valence states (Ag + , Ag 2+ , Ag 0 NCs), which was higher than that of Degussa P25. The high photocatalytic activity of the Ag species/TiO 2 can be attributed to the synergy effect of the three Ag species.

  17. Microstructural evolution of Au/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite films: The influence of Au concentration and thermal annealing

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Borges, J., E-mail: joelborges@fisica.uminho.pt [Instituto Pedro Nunes, Laboratório de Ensaios, Desgaste e Materiais, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra (Portugal); SEG-CEMUC, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra (Portugal); Centro/Departamento de Física, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga (Portugal); Kubart, T.; Kumar, S.; Leifer, K. [Solid-State Electronics, Department of Engineering Sciences, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 534, Uppsala SE-751 21 (Sweden); Rodrigues, M.S. [Instituto Pedro Nunes, Laboratório de Ensaios, Desgaste e Materiais, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra (Portugal); Centro/Departamento de Física, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga (Portugal); Duarte, N.; Martins, B.; Dias, J.P. [Instituto Pedro Nunes, Laboratório de Ensaios, Desgaste e Materiais, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra (Portugal); Cavaleiro, A. [SEG-CEMUC, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra (Portugal); Vaz, F. [SEG-CEMUC, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra (Portugal); Centro/Departamento de Física, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga (Portugal)

    2015-04-01

    Nanocomposite thin films consisting of a dielectric matrix, such as titanium oxide (TiO{sub 2}), with embedded gold (Au) nanoparticles were prepared and will be analysed and discussed in detail in the present work. The evolution of morphological and structural features was studied for a wide range of Au concentrations and for annealing treatments in air, for temperatures ranging from 200 to 800 °C. Major findings revealed that for low Au atomic concentrations (at.%), there are only traces of clustering, and just for relatively high annealing temperatures, T ≥ 500 °C. Furthermore, the number of Au nanoparticles is extremely low, even for the highest annealing temperature, T = 800 °C. It is noteworthy that the TiO{sub 2} matrix also crystallizes in the anatase phase for annealing temperatures above 300 °C. For intermediate Au contents (5 at.% ≤ C{sub Au} ≤ 15 at.%), the formation of gold nanoclusters was much more evident, beginning at lower annealing temperatures (T ≥ 200 °C) with sizes ranging from 2 to 25 nm as the temperature increased. A change in the matrix crystallization from anatase to rutile was also observed in this intermediate range of compositions. For the highest Au concentrations (> 20 at.%), the films tended to form relatively larger clusters, with sizes above 20 nm (for T ≥ 400 °C). It is demonstrated that the structural and morphological characteristics of the films are strongly affected by the annealing temperature, as well as by the particular amounts, size and distribution of the Au nanoparticles dispersed in the TiO{sub 2} matrix. - Highlights: • Au:TiO{sub 2} films were produced by magnetron sputtering and post-deposition annealing. • The Au concentration in the films increases with the Au pellet area. • Annealing induced microstructural changes in the films. • The nanoparticle size evolution with temperature depends on the Au concentration.

  18. Nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} films containing sulfur and gold: Synthesis, characterization and application to immobilize and direct electrochemistry of cytochrome c

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rafiee-Pour, Hossain-Ali, E-mail: rafieepour@kashanu.ac.ir [Biotechnology Division, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Hamadanian, Masood [Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Kashan, Kashan , Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Koushali, Samaneh Katebi [Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2016-02-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Promoting efficiency of TiO{sub 2} in cyt c immobilization by metal and nonmetal doping. • Synthesis of Au/S-TiO{sub 2} as a novel and efficient for cyt c immobilization. • Investigating structural, chemical and morphological characteristics of prepared TiO{sub 2}, S-TiO{sub 2} and Au/S-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. • 4%Au/S-TiO{sub 2} showed high surface area, nanometer size, strong absorbance, high efficiency in cyt c immobilization. • Promoting immobilization efficiency by addition of a small amount of gold at the surface of TiO{sub 2} by photochemistry method. - Abstract: In this paper, nanoporous titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) film was used for cytochrome c (cyt c) immobilization as an electrode substrate for electrochemical redox activity of the adsorbed cyt c. The result of cyclic voltammetry exhibited a pair of well-defined and quasi-reversible peaks for direct electron transfer of cyt c (formal potential [E{sup 0}′ = (E{sub pa} + E{sub pc})/2] of 53 mV versus Ag/AgCl). In addition the effect of metal and nonmetal ions (Au, S) co-doping on the efficiency of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (prepared by combining sol–gel and photo-deposition methods) on the cyt c immobilization process was investigated. The results exhibited that the Au, S-co-doped TiO{sub 2} (Au/S-TiO{sub 2}) with a spheroidal shape demonstrates a smaller grain size than the pure TiO{sub 2}. Meanwhile, the UV–vis DRS of Au/S-TiO{sub 2} showed a considerable red shift to the visible region. As a result, it was found that 4% Au/0.1% S-TiO{sub 2} had the highest efficiency for cytochrome c immobilization. The results showed that the peak currents were higher after the annealing of the TiO{sub 2} film. This observation suggests that the use of TiO{sub 2} films may be advantageous for the development of nanoporous biosensors employing reductive electrochemistry.

  19. High pressure structural phase transitions of TiO2 nanomaterials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li Quan-Jun; Liu Bing-Bing

    2016-01-01

    Recently, the high pressure study on the TiO 2 nanomaterials has attracted considerable attention due to the typical crystal structure and the fascinating properties of TiO 2 with nanoscale sizes. In this paper, we briefly review the recent progress in the high pressure phase transitions of TiO 2 nanomaterials. We discuss the size effects and morphology effects on the high pressure phase transitions of TiO 2 nanomaterials with different particle sizes, morphologies, and microstructures. Several typical pressure-induced structural phase transitions in TiO 2 nanomaterials are presented, including size-dependent phase transition selectivity in nanoparticles, morphology-tuned phase transition in nanowires, nanosheets, and nanoporous materials, and pressure-induced amorphization (PIA) and polyamorphism in ultrafine nanoparticles and TiO 2 -B nanoribbons. Various TiO 2 nanostructural materials with high pressure structures are prepared successfully by high pressure treatment of the corresponding crystal nanomaterials, such as amorphous TiO 2 nanoribbons, α -PbO 2 -type TiO 2 nanowires, nanosheets, and nanoporous materials. These studies suggest that the high pressure phase transitions of TiO 2 nanomaterials depend on the nanosize, morphology, interface energy, and microstructure. The diversity of high pressure behaviors of TiO 2 nanomaterials provides a new insight into the properties of nanomaterials, and paves a way for preparing new nanomaterials with novel high pressure structures and properties for various applications. (topical review)

  20. Resistive switching and synaptic properties of fully atomic layer deposition grown TiN/HfO{sub 2}/TiN devices

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Matveyev, Yu.; Zenkevich, A. [Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Moscow Region (Russian Federation); NRNU “Moscow Engineering Physics Institute”, 115409 Moscow (Russian Federation); Egorov, K.; Markeev, A. [Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Moscow Region (Russian Federation)

    2015-01-28

    Recently proposed novel neural network hardware designs imply the use of memristors as electronic synapses in 3D cross-bar architecture. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is the most feasible technique to fabricate such arrays. In this work, we present the results of the detailed investigation of the gradual resistive switching (memristive) effect in nanometer thick fully ALD grown TiN/HfO{sub 2}/TiN stacks. The modelling of the I-V curves confirms interface limited trap-assisted-tunneling mechanism along the oxygen vacancies in HfO{sub 2} in all conduction states. The resistivity of the stack is found to critically depend upon the distance from the interface to the first trap in HfO{sub 2}. The memristive properties of ALD grown TiN/HfO{sub 2}/TiN devices are correlated with the demonstrated neuromorphic functionalities, such as long-term potentiation/depression and spike-timing dependent plasticity, thus indicating their potential as electronic synapses in neuromorphic hardware.

  1. Critical sizes and critical characteristics of nanoclusters, nanostructures and nanomaterials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Suzdalev, I.P.

    2005-01-01

    Full text: Critical sizes and characteristics of nanoclusters and nanostructures are introduced as the parameters of nanosystems and nanomaterials. The next critical characteristics are considered: atomic and electronic 'magic number', critical size of cluster nucleation, critical size of melting-freezing of cluster, critical size of quantum (laser) radiation, critical sizes for the single electron conductivity, critical energy and magnetic field for the magnetic tunneling, critical cluster sizes for the giant magnetic resistance, critical size of the first order magnetic phase transition. The critical characteristics are estimated by thermodynamic approaches, by Moessbauer spectroscopy, AFM, heat capacity, SQUID magnetometry and other technique, The influence of cluster-cluster interactions, cluster-matrix interactions and cluster defects on cluster atomic dynamics, cluster melting, cluster critical sizes, Curie or Neel points and the character of magnetic phase transitions were investigated. The applications of critical size and critical characteristic parameters for the nanomaterial characterization are considered

  2. Orientation-dependent chemistry and band-bending of Ti on polar ZnO surfaces.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Borghetti, Patrizia; Mouchaal, Younes; Dai, Zongbei; Cabailh, Gregory; Chenot, Stéphane; Lazzari, Rémi; Jupille, Jacques

    2017-04-19

    Orientation-dependent reactivity and band-bending are evidenced upon Ti deposition (1-10 Å) on polar ZnO(0001)-Zn and ZnO(0001[combining macron])-O surfaces. At the onset of the Ti deposition, a downward band-bending was observed on ZnO(0001[combining macron])-O while no change occurred on ZnO(0001)-Zn. Combining this with the photoemission analysis of the Ti 2p core level and Zn L 3 (L 2 )M 45 M 45 Auger transition, it is established that the Ti/ZnO reaction is of the form Ti + 2ZnOTiO 2 + 2Zn on ZnO(0001)-Zn and Ti + yZnOTiZn x O y + (y - x)Zn on ZnO(0001[combining macron])-O. Consistently, upon annealing thicker Ti adlayers, the metallic zinc is removed to leave ZnO(0001)-Zn surfaces covered with a TiO 2 -like phase and ZnO(0001[combining macron])-O surfaces covered with a defined (Ti, Zn, O) compound. Finally, a difference in the activation temperature between the O-terminated (500 K) and Zn-terminated (700 K) surfaces is observed, which is tentatively explained by different electric fields in the space charge layer at ZnO surfaces.

  3. Mechanochemically synthesized Al2O3-TiC nanocomposite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mohammad Sharifi, E.; Karimzadeh, F.; Enayati, M.H.

    2010-01-01

    Al 2 O 3 -TiC nanocomposite was synthesized by ball milling of aluminum, titanium oxide and graphite powder mixtures. Effect of the milling time and heat treatment temperatures were investigated. The structural evolution of powder particles after different milling times was studied by X-ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that after 40 h of ball milling the Al/TiO 2 /C reacted with a self-propagating combustion mode producing Al 2 O 3 -TiC nanocomposite. In final stage of milling, alumina and titanium carbide crystallite sizes were less than 10 nm. After annealing at 900 o C for 1 h, Al 2 O 3 and TiC crystallite sizes remained constant, however increasing annealing temperature to 1200 o C increased Al 2 O 3 and TiC crystallite size to 65 and 30 nm, respectively. No phase change was observed after annealing of the synthesized Al 2 O 3 -TiC powder.

  4. Impact of ultra-thin Al2O3-y layers on TiO2-x ReRAM switching characteristics

    Science.gov (United States)

    Trapatseli, Maria; Cortese, Simone; Serb, Alexander; Khiat, Ali; Prodromakis, Themistoklis

    2017-05-01

    Transition metal-oxide resistive random access memory devices have demonstrated excellent performance in switching speed, versatility of switching and low-power operation. However, this technology still faces challenges like poor cycling endurance, degradation due to high electroforming (EF) switching voltages and low yields. Approaches such as engineering of the active layer by doping or addition of thin oxide buffer layers have been often adopted to tackle these problems. Here, we have followed a strategy that combines the two; we have used ultra-thin Al2O3-y buffer layers incorporated between TiO2-x thin films taking into account both 3+/4+ oxidation states of Al/Ti cations. Our devices were tested by DC and pulsed voltage sweeping and in both cases demonstrated improved switching voltages. We believe that the Al2O3-y layers act as reservoirs of oxygen vacancies which are injected during EF, facilitate a filamentary switching mechanism and provide enhanced filament stability, as shown by the cycling endurance measurements.

  5. Effects of grain size on high temperature creep of fine grained, solution and dispersion hardened V-1.6Y-8W-0.8TiC

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Furuno, T. [Ehime Univerisity, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577 (Japan); Kurishita, H., E-mail: kurishi@imr.tohoku.ac.jp [International Research Center for Nuclear Materials Science, Institute for Materials Research (IMR), Tohoku University, Oarai, Ibaraki 311-1313 (Japan); Nagasaka, T.; Nishimura, A.; Muroga, T. [Fusion Engineering Research Center, National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS), Oroshi-cho 322-6, Tok, Gifu 292 (Japan); Sakamoto, T.; Kobayashi, S.; Nakai, K. [Department of Materials Science and Biotechnology, Ehime Univerisity, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577 (Japan); Matsuo, S.; Arakawa, H. [International Research Center for Nuclear Materials Science, Institute for Materials Research (IMR), Tohoku University, Oarai, Ibaraki 311-1313 (Japan)

    2011-10-01

    Creep resistance is the major concern of vanadium and its alloys for fusion reactor structural applications. In order to elucidate the effects of grain size on the creep behavior of solution and dispersion strengthened vanadium alloys, V-1.6Y-8W-0.8TiC specimens with fine grain sizes from 0.58 to 1.45 {mu}m were prepared by mechanical alloying and HIP without any plastic working and tested at 1073 K and 250 MPa in vacuum. It is shown that the creep resistance of V-1.6Y-8W-0.8TiC depends strongly on grain size and increases with increasing grain size: The creep life for the grain size of 1.45 {mu}m is almost one order longer than that of 0.58 {mu}m, and about two orders longer than that of V-4Cr-4Ti (NIFS-Heat 2) although the grain size of V-4Cr-4Ti is as large as 17.8 {mu}m. The observed creep behavior is discussed in terms of grain size effects on dislocation glide and grain boundary sliding.

  6. Caracterización eléctrica y microestructural de cerámicas densificadas de BaTiO3 obtenido por pechini

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rivera, E.

    2010-12-01

    Full Text Available The barium titanate BaTiO3 is a material of great technological interest due to their dielectric properties. The functionality of this mixed oxide is mainly determined by its structure. Different synthesis methods have been used to improve the electrical response of BaTiO3. In this work BaTiO3 powders were synthesized using the polymeric precursor method, Pechini, obtaining the compound at 650 ° C, with uniform nanometric particle size (~ 20nm. The nature of the synthesized powders was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC. The results indicate that the crystalline phase present in the sample treated at 650 ° C is cubic and at 1100 ° C is tetragonal, with a relation c/a ≈ 1.007. The samples sinterized at 1100 ° C showed a ferroelectric-paraelectric transition at a temperature of T . 123ºC. The ceramic powders of barium titanate tetragonal, pressed and densified, was electrical characterizing with curves current-voltage (I-V at different temperatures. Additionally, we measured the change in electrical resistance versus temperature (R-T and we tested the behavior thermistor (PTCR of the material for different pressures. Also the electric response of the material with the variation of the frequency, for different temperatures, was measured.El titanato de bario BaTiO3 es un compuesto de gran interés tecnológico debido a sus propiedades dieléctricas. La funcionalidad de este oxido mixto está determinada, principalmente, por su estructura. Diferentes métodos de síntesis se han utilizado para mejorar la respuesta eléctrica del BaTiO3. En el presente trabajo se sintetizaron polvos de BaTiO3 utilizando el método de precursor polimérico, Pechini, obteniéndose el compuesto a una temperatura de 650 °C, con un tamaño de partícula nanométrico (~20nm y uniforme. La naturaleza de los polvos sintetizados se analizo utilizando difracción de rayos X (DRX y calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC

  7. Obtaining of iron particles of nanometer size in a natural zeolite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xingu C, E. G.

    2013-01-01

    The zeolites are aluminosilicates with cavities that can act as molecular sieve. Their crystalline structure is formed by tetrahedrons that get together giving place to a three-dimensional net, in which each oxygen is shared by two silicon atoms, being this way part of the tecto silicate minerals, its external and internal areas reach the hundred square meters for gram, they are located in a natural way in a large part of earth crust and also exist in a synthetic way. In Mexico there are different locations of zeolitic material whose important component is the clinoptilolite. In this work the results of three zeolitic materials coming from San Luis Potosi are shown, the samples were milled and sieved for its initial characterization, to know its chemical composition, crystalline phases, morphology, topology and thermal behavior before and after its homo-ionization with sodium chloride, its use as support of iron particles of nanometer size. The description of the synthesis of iron particles of nanometer size is also presented, as well as the comparison with the particles of nanometer size synthesized without support after its characterization. The characterization techniques used during the experimental work were: Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Infrared spectroscopy, specific area by means of BET and thermogravimetry analysis. (Author)

  8. Electrostatic analysis of n-doped SrTiO3 metal-insulator-semiconductor systems

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kamerbeek, A. M.; Banerjee, T.; Hueting, R. J. E.

    2015-01-01

    Electron doped SrTiO 3 , a complex-oxide semiconductor, possesses novel electronic properties due to its strong temperature and electric-field dependent permittivity. Due to the high permittivity, metal/n-SrTiO 3 systems show reasonably strong rectification even when SrTiO 3 is degenerately doped. Our experiments show that the insertion of a sub nanometer layer of AlO x in between the metal and n-SrTiO 3 interface leads to a dramatic reduction of the Schottky barrier height (from around 0.90 V to 0.25 V). This reduces the interface resistivity by 4 orders of magnitude. The derived electrostatic analysis of the metal-insulator-semiconductor (n-SrTiO 3 ) system is consistent with this trend. When compared with a Si based MIS system, the change is much larger and mainly governed by the high permittivity of SrTiO 3 . The non-linear permittivity of n-SrTiO 3 leads to unconventional properties such as a temperature dependent surface potential non-existent for semiconductors with linear permittivity such as Si. This allows tuning of the interfacial band alignment, and consequently the Schottky barrier height, in a much more drastic way than in conventional semiconductors

  9. Reduced graphene oxide enwrapped pinecone-liked Ag3PO4/TiO2 composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability under visible light

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ma, Ni; Qiu, Yiwei; Zhang, Yichao; Liu, Hanyang; Yang, Yana; Wang, Jingwei; Li, Xiaoyun; Cui, Can

    2015-01-01

    Ag 3 PO 4 possesses high photocatalytic activity under visible light, but its application is limited by photogenerated charges recombination, photocorrosion as well as consumption of noble Ag. It is of great interesting to develop new Ag 3 PO 4 -based photocatalysts with high charges separation efficiency, good stability and low content of Ag. In this paper, we report a novel Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /reduced graphene oxide (Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO) photocatalyst. It exhibits advantages on both the microstructure and the charges separation. The microstructure shows that TiO 2 spheres of hundreds of nanometers in size are decorated with dense nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 to form pinecone-liked particles, which are enwrapped by rGO sheets. This novel structure effectively prevents aggregation of nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 , which not only suppresses the charges recombination in Ag 3 PO 4 but also significantly reduces the content of Ag. Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO also favors separation of photogenerated charges owing to its two pathways for charges transportation, i.e., the electrons in Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to rGO, while the holes in Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to TiO 2 . The dual-pathway for charges separation as well as the pinecone-liked Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 microstructure ultimately leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability of Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO. The photocatalytic performance varies with different contents of Ag 3 PO 4 in the composites, because low content of Ag 3 PO 4 induces weak light absorption while excess Ag 3 PO 4 results in serious charges recombination due to the aggregation of Ag 3 PO 4 nanoparticles. In this work, Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO with weight ratio of Ag 3 PO 4 against TiO 2 /rGO equals to 0.6 exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. The percentage of Ag in this composite is around 29 wt%, much lower than 77 wt% in pure Ag 3 PO 4 . - Highlights: • Nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 were decorated on TiO 2 particles. • Pinecone-liked Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2

  10. Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of TiO2/conjugated polymer complex nanoparticles

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    Shi Xiong Min; Fang Wang; Lei Feng; Yong Chun Tong; Zi Rong Yang

    2008-01-01

    A photocatalyst of nanometer TiO2/conjugated polymer complex was successfully synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic methods and photocatalytic experiments. The complex photocatalyst could be activated by absorbing both ultraviolet and visible light (λ=190-800nm). Methylene blue (MB) could be degraded more efficiently on the complex photocatalyst than on the TiO2 under natural light. The conjugated polymer played a promoting role in the photocatalytic degradation of MB. The calcination temperature had an important effect in degradation of dye and could be summarized as 260℃>300℃>340℃>220℃>180℃.

  11. Ratio dependence of the visible light photocatalytic efficiency for Zn{sub 2}Ti{sub 0.9}Cr{sub y}Fe{sub [0.1-y]}O{sub 4}: Cr/Fe (0.02 < y < 0.08) photocatalyst synthesized by using a solid state reaction method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Borse, P. H. [International Advanced Research Center for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials, Hyderabad (India); Cho, C. R. [Pusan National University, Miryang (Korea, Republic of); Lim, K. T. [Pukyong National University, Busan (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Y. J.; Bae, J. S.; Jeong, E. D.; Kim, H. G. [Korea Basic Science Institute, Busan (Korea, Republic of)

    2011-07-15

    We synthesized four different photocatalyst systems of Zn{sub 2}TiO{sub 4}, Zn{sub 2}Ti{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 4}, Zn{sub 2}Ti{sub 1-x}Cr{sub x}O{sub 4} (0 {<=} x < 0.8) and Zn{sub 2}Ti{sub 0.9}Cr{sub y}Fe{sub [0.1]-y}O{sub 4} (0.02 < y < 0.08) by using a solid state reaction method. For the first time, the UV-active photocatalyst Zn{sub 2}TiO{sub 4} was converted to a visible light active material by controlled doping/co-doping with Cr and Fe metal-ions at Ti substitutional sites, and investigated the structural, optical and photocatalytic water decomposition properties of that materials. The co-doping induces strong absorption bands (at {lambda} {approx} 480 nm and {lambda} {approx} 620 nm) within the Zn{sub 2}TiO{sub 4} band gap. The optimum system of Zn{sub 2}Ti{sub 0.9}Cr{sub 0.05}Fe{sub 0.05}O{sub 4} yielded maximum H{sub 2} generation. In contrast to the visible light inactivity of Fe- and Cr-doped Zn{sub 2}TiO{sub 4}, the H{sub 2} production from co-doped samples under visible light irradiation increased till the optimum 'y' value. Consequently, here exists an optimal co-dopant concentration for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production under visible light ({lambda} {>=} 420 nm).

  12. Synthesis of BaTiO3 nanoparticles from TiO2-coated BaCO3 particles derived using a wet-chemical method

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yuuki Mochizuki

    2014-03-01

    Full Text Available BaCO3 particles coated with amorphous TiO2 precursor are prepared by a wet chemical method to produce BaTiO3 nanoparticles at low temperatures. Subsequently, we investigate the formation behavior of BaTiO3 particles and the particle growth behavior when the precursor is subjected to heat treatment. The state of the amorphous TiO2 coating on the surface of BaCO3 particles depends on the concentration of NH4HCO3, and the optimum concentration is found to be in the range 0.5–1.0 M. Thermogravimetric curves of the BaCO3 particles coated with the TiO2 precursor, prepared from BaCO3 particles of various sizes, show BaTiO3 formation occurring mainly at 550–650 °C in the case of fine BaCO3 particles. However, as evidenced from the curves, the temperature of formation of BaTiO3 shifts to higher values with an increase in the size of the BaCO3 particles. The average particle size of single phase BaTiO3 at heat-treatment temperature of 650–900 °C is observed to be in the range 60–250 nm.

  13. Study of optical and electrical properties of water-soluble conjugated poly(3-hexylthiophene) on different grain-sized mesoporous TiO2 layers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Thalluri, Gopala Krishna V.V.; Bolsée, Jean-Christophe; Madapati, Saipriya; Vanderzande, Dirk; Manca, Jean V.

    2014-01-01

    Solid-state hybrid solar cells are promising candidates for future low-cost photovoltaic energy generation that are based on polymer/metal oxide donor/acceptor heterojunctions. However, a critical drawback of hybrid solar cells is the usage of toxic and environmental unfriendly organic solvents in the phase of preparation. In terms of environmental impact, “green” and safer materials are required towards processing of eco-friendly hybrid solar cells. In this work, during processing phase of eco-friendly hybrid solar cells, aqueous-soluble conjugated poly(3-hexylthiophene) material is used as photo-active and hole transporting layer and TiO 2 layer as electron accepting layer. Optical, topographical and morphological characterizations on different grain-sized TiO 2 layers with polymer films are studied. The influence of eco-friendly hybrid solar cell electrical properties in combination with different grain-sized TiO 2 layers measured under N 2 and ambient conditions are discussed. It is important to understand these properties for further optimizations. - Highlights: • Morphological properties of different grain-sized TiO 2 layers. • Optical properties with and without water-soluble poly(3-hexylthiophene) on TiO 2 layers. • Electrical measurements. • Eco-friendly hybrid solar cells

  14. Mechanical properties of tungsten alloys with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and titanium additions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aguirre, M.V., E-mail: mariavega.aguirre@upm.es [Departamento de Tecnologias Especiales Aplicadas a la Aeronautica, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, E.U.I.T. Aeronautica, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Martin, A.; Pastor, J.Y. [Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales-CISDEM, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid.E.T.S. Ingenieros de Caminos, 28040 Madrid (Spain); LLorca, J. [Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales-CISDEM, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid.E.T.S. Ingenieros de Caminos, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Instituto Madrileno de Estudios Avanzados en Materiales (Instituto IMDEA-Materiales), Ingenieros de Caminos, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganes (Spain)

    2011-10-01

    In this research the mechanical behaviour of pure tungsten (W) and its alloys (2 wt.% Ti-0.47 wt.% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 4 wt.% Ti-0.5 wt.% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}) is compared. These tungsten alloys, have been obtained by powder metallurgy. The yield strength, fracture toughness and elastic modulus have been studied in the temperature interval of 25 deg. C to 1000 deg. C. The results have shown that the addition of Ti substantially improves the bending strength and toughness of W, but it also dramatically increases the DBTT. On the other hand, the addition of 0.5% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}, is enough to improve noticeably the oxidation behaviour at the higher temperatures. The grain size, fractography and microstructure are studied in these materials. Titanium is a good grain growth inhibitor and effective precursor of liquid phase in HIP. The simultaneous presence of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Ti permits to obtain materials with low pores presence.

  15. Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters for Catalytic Application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jin, Rongchao [Carnegie Mellon Univ., Pittsburgh, PA (United States)

    2016-11-18

    The central goal of this project is to explore the catalytic application of atomically precise gold nanoclusters. By solving the total structures of ligand-protected nanoclusters, we aim to correlate the catalytic properties of metal nanoclusters with their atomic/electronic structures. Such correlation unravel some fundamental aspects of nanocatalysis, such as the nature of particle size effect, origin of catalytic selectivity, particle-support interactions, the identification of catalytically active centers, etc. The well-defined nanocluster catalysts mediate the knowledge gap between single crystal model catalysts and real-world conventional nanocatalysts. These nanoclusters also hold great promise in catalyzing certain types of reactions with extraordinarily high selectivity. These aims are in line with the overall goals of the catalytic science and technology of DOE and advance the BES mission “to support fundamental research to understand, predict, and ultimately control matter and energy at the level of electrons, atoms, and molecules”. Our group has successfully prepared different sized, robust gold nanoclusters protected by thiolates, such as Au25(SR)18, Au28(SR)20, Au38(SR)24, Au99(SR)42, Au144(SR)60, etc. Some of these nanoclusters have been crystallographically characterized through X-ray crystallography. These ultrasmall nanoclusters (< 2 nm diameter) exhibit discrete electronic structures due to quantum size effect, as opposed to quasicontinuous band structure of conventional metal nanoparticles or bulk metals. The available atomic structures (metal core plus surface ligands) of nanoclusters serve as the basis for structure-property correlations. We have investigated the unique catalytic properties of nanoclusters (i.e. not observed in conventional nanogold catalysts) and revealed the structure-selectivity relationships. Highlights of our

  16. Characterization of dispersion of a nano composites PP/TiO{sub 2} non modified; Caracterizacao da dispersao dos nanocompositos de PP/TiO{sub 2} nao modificados

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Soares, Igor L.; Tavares, Maria I.B.; Silva, Vanessa A. da; Legramanti, Cintia, E-mail: igorl@ima.ufrj.br [Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Instituto de Macromoleculas - IMA (Brazil); Luetkmeyer, Leandro [Universidades Federais do Mato Grosso - UFMT, Escritorio de Inovacao Tecnologica - EIT (Brazil)

    2011-07-01

    Polymeric nano composites are composite materials where an inorganic particle, which has a dimension in the nanometer range, is dispersed in a polymer matrix. Nano composites, using polypropylene (PP) as matrix polymer and titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) as filler, have great versatility in marketing applications, this factor is inherent in the PP and the inherent ability photo degraded TiO{sub 2} particles. This combination can lead to a widely used material and a degradation time after discharge reduced, there by becoming, a residue of low environmental impact. This study aimed to evaluate the dispersion and particle distribution of TiO{sub 2}, non modified, in PP matrix, using the process of preparation by melt extrusion pathway and characterization of the materials obtained: on the molecular dynamics, using low field NMR solid state, measures the relaxation time spin-network (T{sub 1}H); morphology using XRD technique, and thermal analysis technique with the TGA of pure PP and nano composites PP/TiO{sub 2}. (author)

  17. Chemically synthesized TiO2 and PANI/TiO2 thin films for ethanol sensing applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gawri, Isha; Ridhi, R.; Singh, K. P.; Tripathi, S. K.

    2018-02-01

    Ethanol sensing properties of chemically synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO2) and polyaniline/titanium dioxide nanocomposites (PANI/TiO2) had been performed at room temperature. In-situ oxidative polymerization process had been employed with aniline as a monomer in presence of anatase titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The prepared samples were structurally and morphologically characterized by x-ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared spectra, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy and field emission-scanning electron microscopy. The crystallinity of PANI/TiO2 nanocomposite was revealed by XRD and FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of chemical bonding between the polymer chains and metal oxide nanoparticles. HR-TEM micrographs depicted that TiO2 particles were embedded in polymer matrix, which provides an advantage over pure TiO2 nanoparticles in efficient adsorption of vapours. These images also revealed that the TiO2 nanoparticles were irregular in shape with size around 17 nm. FE-SEM studies revealed that in the porous structure of PANI/TiO2 film, the intercalation of TiO2 in PANI chains provides an advantage over pure TiO2 film for uniform interaction with ethanol vapors. The sensitivity values of prepared samples were examined towards ethanol vapours at room temperature. The PANI/TiO2 nanocomposite exhibited better sensing response and faster response-recovery examined at different ethanol concentrations ranging from 5 ppm to 20 ppm in comparison to pure TiO2 nanoparticles. The increase in vapour sensing of PANI/TiO2 sensing film as compared to pure TiO2 film had been explained in detail with the help of gas sensing mechanism of TiO2 and PANI/TiO2. This provides strong evidence that gas sensing properties of TiO2 had been considerably improved and enhanced with the addition of polymer matrix.

  18. Photocatalytic self-cleaning cotton fabrics with platinum (IV) chloride modified TiO{sub 2} and N-TiO{sub 2} coatings

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Long, Mingce, E-mail: long_mc@sjtu.edu.cn [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai, 200240 (China); Key Laboratory for Thin Film and Microfabrication of the Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai, 200240 (China); Zheng, Longhui; Tan, Beihui [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai, 200240 (China); Shu, Heping [Xiaoxi New Materials Science and Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., 655 Cangyuan Road, Shanghai, 200240 (China)

    2016-11-15

    Highlights: • Platinum (IV) chloride modified TiO{sub 2} and N-TiO{sub 2} nanosols are synthesized. • Pt-TiO{sub 2} coatings display enhanced performance in the degradation of MO and stains. • Surface attached PtCl{sub 6}{sup 2−} enable visible light activity of TiO{sub 2} coated cotton fabric. - Abstract: To enable photocatalytic self-cleaning cotton fabrics working under visible light irradiation, platinum (IV) chloride modified TiO{sub 2} (Pt-TiO{sub 2}) and N-TiO{sub 2} (Pt-N-TiO{sub 2}) nanosols are synthesized through a low temperature precipitation-peptization method. According to the characterizations of XRD, DRS and TEM, all nanoparticles are anatase nanocrystallites in the sizes of less than 10 nm, while N-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles have better crystallization and smaller sizes. However, the cotton fabrics functionalized with Pt-TiO{sub 2} display significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity for methyl orange degradation and coffee stain removal under both solar simulator and visible light irradiation, while the performance of that coatings of Pt-N-TiO{sub 2} is poor. Further XRF and XPS results indicate that surface species on N-TiO{sub 2} block the adsorption of PtCl{sub 6}{sup 2−} anions, whereas these anions strongly attach on the surface of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles, and accordingly enable functionalized cotton fabrics efficient visible light driven activities based on a mechanism of charge transfer from ligand to metal (CTLM) excitation.

  19. The effect of nanoparticles size on photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} photocatalysts

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zielińska-Jurek, Anna, E-mail: annjurek@pg.gda.pl [Department of Chemical Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Wei, Zhishun [Catalysis Research Center, Hokkaido University, N21, W10, 001-0021, Sapporo (Japan); Wysocka, Izabela [Department of Chemical Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Szweda, Piotr [Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Kowalska, Ewa [Catalysis Research Center, Hokkaido University, N21, W10, 001-0021, Sapporo (Japan)

    2015-10-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light for bimetallic Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} was observed. • Phenol was removed efficiently after 60 min irradiation under Vis. • Most active sample contains fine Pt (1–3 nm) on TiO{sub 2}. • Ag/TiO{sub 2}, Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} revealed antimicrobial activity. - Abstract: Ag-Pt-modified TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites were synthesized using the sol–gel method. Bimetallic modified TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles exhibited improved photocatalytic activity under visible-light irradiation, better than monometallic Ag/TiO{sub 2} and Pt/TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (NPs). All modified powders showed localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in visible region. The photocatalysts’ characteristics by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), nitrogen adsorption (BET method for specific surface area) showed that sample with the highest photocatalytic activity had anatase structure, about 93 m{sup 2}/g specific surface area, maximum plasmon absorption at ca. 420 nm and contained small NPs of silver of 6 nm and very fine platinum NPs of 3 nm. The photocatalytic activity was estimated by measuring the decomposition rate of phenol in 0.2 mM aqueous solution under Vis and UV/vis light irradiation. It was found that size of platinum was decisive for the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation, i.e., the smaller Pt NPs were, the higher was photocatalytic activity. While, antimicrobial activities, estimated for bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and pathogenic fungi belonging to Candida family, were only observed for photocatalysts containing silver, i.e., Ag/TiO{sub 2} and Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites.

  20. Red emitting phosphors of Eu3+ doped Na2Ln2Ti3O10 (Ln = Gd, Y) for white light emitting diodes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Niumiao; Guo, Chongfeng; Yin, Luqiao; Zhang, Jianhua; Wu, Mingmei

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Layered red phosphors Na 2 Ln 2 Ti 3 O 10 (Ln = Gd, Y):Eu 3+ were prepared. • The synthesis parameters of phosphors were optimized. • PL and thermal stability of the samples were investigated. • LED devices were also fabricated including the present red phosphor. - Abstract: A series of Eu 3+ doped Na 2 Ln 2 Ti 3 O 10 (Ln = Gd, Y) red-emitting phosphors for application in ultraviolet based light emitting diodes (LEDs) were successfully synthesized by a modified sol–gel method. Their structure and luminescent properties were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and emission (PL) spectra and absorption spectra, according to these results the optimal compositions and synthesis parameters were determined. In addition, the thermal stabilities of the phosphors were investigated according to the temperature-dependent PL spectra. The red and white-LEDs (W-LEDs) comprising the Na 2 Ln 2 Ti 3 O 10 :Eu 3+ (Ln = Gd, Y) red emitting phosphors were fabricated with a near-ultraviolet (n-UV) chip. In comparison with Na 2 Y 1.4 Eu 0.6 Ti 3 O 10 , the Na 2 Gd 0.6 Eu 1.4 Ti 3 O 10 phosphor offers higher brightness, quantum efficiency, and excellent thermal stability. W-LEDs comprising Na 2 Gd 0.6 Eu 1.4 Ti 3 O 10 showed bright white emission with a color rendering index (Ra) of 82, a color temperature of 2151 K, and Commission Internationale de I’Eclairage (CIE) color coordinates of (0.34, 0.37). The phosphor Na 2 Gd 0.6 Eu 1.4 Ti 3 O 10 is more suitable candidate for application in LEDs

  1. Electrochemical characteristics of porous TiO2 encapsulated silicon anode

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jeon, Bup Ju; Lee, Joong Kee

    2011-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Cycling performances of the TiO 2 coated silicon anode at different catalyst pH values. Display Omitted Highlights: → TiO 2 coated silicon was used as the anode material for lithium batteries. → TiO 2 layer acted as a buffer layer for reducing the volume expansion. → Pore size distribution of TiO 2 coated silicon influenced discharge capacity. → Higher capacity retention was exhibited at pH 10.7. - Abstract: TiO 2 coated silicon, which was prepared by the modified sol-gel method, was employed as the anode material for lithium secondary batteries and the relationship between the diffusivity and electrochemical characteristics was investigated. The results showed that the physical properties of the samples, such as their diffusivity and pore size distribution, enhanced the cycling efficiency of the TiO 2 coated silicon, probably due to the reduction of the side reactions, which may be closely related to the pore size distribution of the TiO 2 coating layer. The pore size of the coating layer plays an important role in retarding the lithium ion diffusion. In the experimental range studied herein, higher capacity retention was exhibited for the TiO 2 coated silicon prepared at pH 10.7.

  2. Highly crystallized nanometer-sized zeolite a with large Cs adsorption capability for the decontamination of water.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Torad, Nagy L; Naito, Masanobu; Tatami, Junichi; Endo, Akira; Leo, Sin-Yen; Ishihara, Shinsuke; Wu, Kevin C-W; Wakihara, Toru; Yamauchi, Yusuke

    2014-03-01

    Nanometer-sized zeolite A with a large cesium (Cs) uptake capability is prepared through a simple post-milling recrystallization method. This method is suitable for producing nanometer-sized zeolite in large scale, as additional organic compounds are not needed to control zeolite nucleation and crystal growth. Herein, we perform a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) study to evaluate the uptake ability of Cs ions by zeolite, to the best of our knowledge, for the first time. In comparison to micrometer-sized zeolite A, nanometer-sized zeolite A can rapidly accommodate a larger amount of Cs ions into the zeolite crystal structure, owing to its high external surface area. Nanometer-sized zeolite is a promising candidate for the removal of radioactive Cs ions from polluted water. Our QCM study on Cs adsorption uptake behavior provides the information of adsorption kinetics (e.g., adsorption amounts and rates). This technique is applicable to other zeolites, which will be highly valuable for further consideration of radioactive Cs removal in the future. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  3. Nanometer and molecular materials: the greatness of the very tiny; Materiales manometricos y moleculares: la grandeza de lo infimo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rincon, Marina [Centro de Investigacion en Energia (CIE) de la UNAM, Temixco, Morelos (Mexico)

    2010-07-01

    Some of the materials have been present in our lives for many years, and now appear with unique or improved properties by the fact that they can be manufactured in the nanometer scale; that is, a million times smaller than a millimeter and with geometries that include the nanodots, the nanotubes, the nanowires, to mention a few of them. The most popular is the titanium dioxide (Titania), known by many as the white pigment in paints, sunscreens, cosmetics and others for their null toxicity, low cost and high stability. Strictly speaking, these features are really applicable to the micrometric material (which is a thousand times larger than the nanometer) and it is still to be proven toxicity and stability of the nanometer materials; but it is a fact that the nanometer titania is very popular in a multitude of applications that have to do with catalysis, sensors, and energy conversion and storing. We will also deal with conductive polymers, which are molecular conjugated materials. [Spanish] Algunos de los materiales han estado presentes en nuestras vidas por muchos anos y ahora aparecen con propiedades unicas o mejoradas por el hecho de que se pueden fabricar en la escala de los nanometros; esto es, un millon de veces mas pequenos que un milimetro y con geometrias que comprenden los nanopuntos, los nanotubos, los nanoalambres, por mencionar algunas. El mas popular es el dioxido de titanio (titania), conocido por muchos como el pigmento blanco de las pinturas, filtros solares, cosmeticos y demas, por su nula toxicidad, bajo costo y gran estabilidad. Estrictamente hablando, estas caracteristicas son realmente aplicables al material micrometrico (que es mil veces mas grande que el nanometrico) y todavia esta por probarse la toxicidad y estabilidad de los nanomateriales; pero es un hecho que la titania nanometrica es muy popular en un sinfin de aplicaciones que tienen que ver con catalisis, sensores, y conversion y almacenamiento de energia. Hablaremos tambien de

  4. Characterization of dispersion of a nano composites PP/TiO2 non modified

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Soares, Igor L.; Tavares, Maria I.B.; Silva, Vanessa A. da; Legramanti, Cintia; Luetkmeyer, Leandro

    2011-01-01

    Polymeric nano composites are composite materials where an inorganic particle, which has a dimension in the nanometer range, is dispersed in a polymer matrix. Nano composites, using polypropylene (PP) as matrix polymer and titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) as filler, have great versatility in marketing applications, this factor is inherent in the PP and the inherent ability photo degraded TiO 2 particles. This combination can lead to a widely used material and a degradation time after discharge reduced, there by becoming, a residue of low environmental impact. This study aimed to evaluate the dispersion and particle distribution of TiO 2 , non modified, in PP matrix, using the process of preparation by melt extrusion pathway and characterization of the materials obtained: on the molecular dynamics, using low field NMR solid state, measures the relaxation time spin-network (T 1 H); morphology using XRD technique, and thermal analysis technique with the TGA of pure PP and nano composites PP/TiO 2 . (author)

  5. Two-dimensional thermoelectric Seebeck coefficient of SrTiO3-based superlattices

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ohta, Hiromichi

    2008-01-01

    This review provides the origin of the unusually large thermoelectric Seebeck coefficient vertical stroke S vertical stroke of a two-dimensional electron gas confined within a unit cell layer thickness (∝0.4 nm) of a SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 layer of artificial superlattices of SrTiO 3 /SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 [H. Ohta et al., Nature Mater. 6, 129 (2007)]. The vertical stroke S vertical stroke 2D values of the[(SrTiO 3 ) 17 /(SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 ) y ] 20 superlattice increase proportional to y -0.5 , and reach 290 μV K -1 (y=1) at room temperature, which is ∝5 times larger than that of the SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 bulk (vertical stroke S vertical stroke 3D =61 μVK -1 ), proving that the density of states in the ground state for SrTiO 3 increases in inverse proportion to y. The critical barrier thickness for quantum electron confinement is also clarified to be 6.25 nm (16 unit cells of SrTiO 3 ). Significant structural changes are not observed in the superlattice after annealing at 900 K in a vacuum. The value of vertical stroke S vertical stroke 2D of the superlattice gradually increases with temperature and reaches 450 μVK -1 at 900 K, which is ∝3 times larger than that of bulk SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 . These observations provide clear evidence that the [(SrTiO 3 ) 17 /(SrTi 0.8 Nb 0.2 O 3 ) 1 ] 20 superlattice is stable and exhibits a giant vertical stroke S vertical stroke even at high temperature. (copyright 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  6. Possibility of superradiance by magnetic nanoclusters

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yukalov, V I; Yukalova, E P

    2011-01-01

    The possibility of realizing spin superradiance by an assembly of magnetic nanoclusters is analyzed. The known obstacles for realizing such a coherent radiation by magnetic nanoclusters are their large magnetic anisotropy, strong dephasing dipole interactions, and an essential nonuniformity of their sizes. In order to give a persuasive conclusion, a microscopic theory is developed, providing an accurate description of nanocluster spin dynamics. It is shown that, despite the obstacles, it is feasible to organize such a setup that magnetic nanoclusters would produce strong superradiant emission

  7. Synthesis of hydrophobic gold nanoclusters: growth mechanism study, luminescence property and catalytic application

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Selvam, Tamil Selvi; Chi, Kai-Ming

    2011-01-01

    One-pot synthesis of well dispersed, size-controlled gold nanoparticles with the average size of 10–15 nm and luminescent gold nanoclusters with average size of 1.7–2.0 nm were successfully achieved by thermal decomposition of gold organometallic precursor CH 3 AuPPh 3 in the presence of thiol surfactants in o-xylene. Only difference between the preparations of two types of Au nanoparticles is the amount of thiol surfactant employed. The mechanistic study of formation of gold nanoparticles was carried out by analyzing the samples at different reaction time intervals and revealed that two-staged growth process was involved. The nanoclusters showed strong red emission with the maximum intensity at about 600 nm. The maximum room temperature photoluminescence quantum yield was measured as 1.2%. The catalytic ability of the Au nanoclusters to promote Suzuki–Miyaura coupling involving the C–C bond formation was also investigated.

  8. Elastic properties of amorphous T0.75Y0.75B14 (T   =  Sc, Ti, V, Y, Zr, Nb) and the effect of O incorporation on bonding, density and elasticity (T ′  =  Ti, Zr)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hunold, Oliver; Keuter, Philipp; Bliem, Pascal; Music, Denis; Wittmers, Friederike; Ravensburg, Anna L; Schneider, Jochen M; Primetzhofer, Daniel

    2017-01-01

    We have systematically studied the effect of transition metal valence electron concentration (VEC) of amorphous T 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 (a- T 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 , T   =  Sc, Ti, V, Y, Zr, Nb) on the elastic properties, bonding, density and electronic structure using ab initio molecular dynamics. As the transition metal VEC is increased in both periods, the bulk modulus increases linearly with molar- and mass density. This trend can be understood by a concomitant decrease in cohesive energy. T ′  =  Ti and Zr were selected to validate the predicted data experimentally. A-Ti 0.74 Y 0.80 B 14 and a-Zr 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 thin films were synthesized by high power pulsed magnetron sputtering. Chemical composition analysis revealed the presence of up to 5 at.% impurities, with O being the largest fraction. The measured Young’s modulus values for a-Ti 0.74 Y 0.80 B 14 (301  ±  8 GPa) and a-Zr 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 (306  ±  9 GPa) are more than 20% smaller than the predicted ones. The influence of O incorporation on the elastic properties for these selected systems was theoretically studied, exemplarily in a-Ti 0.75 Y 0.75 B 12.75 O 1.25 . Based on ab initio data, we suggest that a-Ti 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 exhibits a very dense B network, which is partly severed in a-Ti 0.75 Y 0.75 B 12.75 O 1.25 . Upon O incorporation, the average coordination number of B and the molar density decrease by 9% and 8%, respectively. Based on these data the more than 20% reduced Young’s modulus obtained experimentally for films containing impurities compared to the calculated Young’s modulus for a-Ti 0.75 Y 0.75 B 14 (without incorporated oxygen) can be rationalized. The presence of oxygen impurities disrupts the strong B network causing a concomitant decrease in molar density and Young’s modulus. Very good agreement between the measured and calculated Young’s modulus values is obtained if the presence of impurities is considered in the calculations. The

  9. Nanocrystals and Nanoclusters as Cocatalysts for Photocatalytic Water Splitting

    KAUST Repository

    Sinatra, Lutfan

    2016-12-04

    studied for the photocatalytic H2 production in order to explore the synergistic effect of the plasmonic resonance from the Au nanoparticles and pn-junction between Cu2O and TiO2. Additionally, the plasmonic effect of the Au films was also studied and utilized in order to improve the PWS. Secondly, the nanoscaling of cocatalysts was studied in order to improve the efficiency thereof and to reduce the cost of the cocatalyst materials. Moreover, it is sought to explore the quantum size effect on the properties of the cocatalyst and their effect on the photocatalytic reaction. Atomically precise Au and Ni nanoclusters were employed in these studies. Au nanoclusters were studied in relation to the cocatalysts in the photocatalytic water splitting, and Ni nanoclusters were studied in relation to the cocatalysts in the electrocatalytic water oxidation. The results of these studies will provide new insights in relation to the strategy used in order to develop efficient cocatalysts for the purpose of photocatalytic water splitting.

  10. Nanostructured Y2O3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Skandan, G.; Hahn, H.; Parker, J.C.

    1991-01-01

    It has been shown that a variety of nanostructured (n-) metal-oxide ceramics such as n-TiO 2 , n-ZrO 2 , n-Al 2 O 3 , n-ZnO and n-MgO can be produced using the inert gas condensation process. Amongst all the nanostructured oxides, the synthesis, microstructure, sintering, and mechanical properties of n-TiO 2 have been studied the most extensively. The gas condensation preparation of nanostructured metal-oxide ceramics involves evaporation of metal nanoparticles, collection and post- oxidation. The original synthesis studies of n-TiO 2 showed that in order to avoid formation of the many low oxidation state oxides in the Ti-O system, the post-oxidation had to be performed by rapidly exposing the Ti nanoparticles to pure oxygen gas. By doing so, the highest oxidation state and the most stable structure, rutile, was obtained. An undesired feature of this step is that the nanoparticles heat up to high temperatures for a brief period of time due to the exothermic nature of the oxidation. As a consequence, the particles with an average size of 12 nm tend to agglomerate into larger structures up to 50 nm. The agglomerated state of the powder is important since it determines the original density and pore size distribution after compaction, as well as the sintering characteristics and final microstructure of the bulk sample. As a consequence of the preparation procedure of n-TiO 2 and the resulting agglomeration, the pore size distribution of n-TiO 2 compacted at room temperature is very wide, with pore sizes ranging from 1 to 200 nm. Nevertheless, the n-TiO 2 sinters at temperatures several hundred degrees lower than conventional coarse grained ceramics. From the previous results on n- TiO 2 it is anticipated that better microstructures and properties can be achieved by reducing the agglomeration of nanostructured powders through a more controlled post- oxidation process

  11. Aspects of the SrO-CuO-TiO2 Ternary System Related to the Deposition of SrTiO3 and Copper-Doped SrTiO3 Thin-Film Buffer Layers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ayala, Alicia [Univ. of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM (United States)

    2004-12-20

    YBa2Cu3O27-δ (YBCO) coated conductors are promising materials for large-scale superconductivity applications. One version of a YBCO coated conductor is based on ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) of magnesium oxide (MgO) onto polycrystalline metal substrates. SrTiO3 (STO) is often deposited by physical vapor deposition (PVD) methods as a buffer layer between the YBCO and IBAD MgO due to its chemical stability and lattice mismatch of only ~1.5% with YBCO. In this work, some aspects of the stability of STO with respect to copper (Cu) and chemical solution deposition of STO on IBAD MgO templates were examined. Solubility limits of Cu in STO were established by processing Cu-doped STO powders by conventional bulk preparation techniques. The maximum solubility of Cu in STO was ~1% as determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Rietveld refinements of x-ray diffraction (XRD) data. XRD analysis, performed in collaboration with NIST, on powder compositions on the STO/SrCuO2 tie line did not identify any ternary phases. SrCu0.10T0.90Oy buffer layers were prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and CSD on IBAD MgO flexible metallic textured tapes. TEM analysis of a ~100 nm thick SrCu0.10Ti0.90Oy buffer layer deposited by PLD showed a smooth Cu-doped STO/MgO interface. A ~600 nm thick YBCO film, deposited onto the SrCu0.10Ti0.90Oy buffer by PLD, exhibited a Tc of 87 K and critical current density (Jc) of ~1 MA/cm2. STO and Cu-doped STO thin films by CSD were ~30 nm thick. The in plane alignment (FWHM) after deposition of the STO improved by ~1° while it degraded by ~2° with the SrCu0.05TiOy buffer. YBCO was deposited by PLD on the STO and SrCu0.05TiOy buffers. The in plane alignment (FWHM) of the YBCO with the STO buffer layer

  12. Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells Based on TiO2/AgInS2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pawar, Sachin A.; Jeong, Jae Pil; Patil, Dipali S.; More, Vivek M.; Lee, Rochelle S.; Shin, Jae Cheol; Choi, Won Jun

    2018-05-01

    Quantum dot heterojunctions with type-II band alignment can efficiently separate photogenerated electron-hole pairs and, hence, are useful for solar cell studies. In this study, a quantum dot sensitized solar cell (QDSSC) made of TiO2/AgInS2 is achieved to boost the photoconversion efficiency for the TiO2-based system by varying the AgInS2 layer's thickness. The TiO2 nanorods array film is prepared by using a simple hydrothermal technique. The formation of a AgInS2 QD-sensitized TiO2-nanorod photoelectrode is carried out by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The effect of the QD layer on the performance of the solar cell is studied by varying the SILAR cycles of the QD coating. The synthesized electrode materials are characterized by using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and solar cell performances. The results indicate that the nanocrystals have effectively covered the outer surfaces of the TiO2 nanorods. The interfacial structure of quantum dots (QDs)/TiO2 is also investigated, and the growth interface is verified. A careful comparison between TiO2/AgInS2 sensitized cells reveals that the trasfer of electrons and hole proceeds efficiently, the recombination is suppressed for the optimum thickness of the QD layer and light from the entire visible spectrum is utilised. Under AM 1.5G illumination, a high photocurrent of 1.36 mAcm-2 with an improved power conversion efficiency of 0.48% is obtained. The solar cell properties of our photoanodes suggest that the TiO2 nanorod array films co-sensitized by AgInS2 nanoclusters have potential applications in solar cells.

  13. Surface excess on MgO-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles; Segregacao superficial de MgO em nanoparticulas de TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gouvea, D.; Viana, B.H.; Miagava, J., E-mail: dgouvea@usp.br, E-mail: bhernardov@gmail.com, E-mail: joice.mgv@gmail.com [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), SP (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia Metalurgica e de Materiais. Lab. de Processos Ceramicos

    2016-10-15

    Anatase has been the subject of several recent investigations partly as consequence of its interesting catalytic properties. Additives such as MgO have been introduced to improve the performance of the photocatalytic TiO{sub 2}. However, the physical-chemistry of these oxides systems and their relationship with properties are poorly understood. In this work, nanoparticles of xMgO-(1-x)TiO{sub 2} (0≤ x≤ 0.05) were synthesized by the polymeric precursor method at 500 °C for 15 h. XRD results showed that only anatase phase was obtained and the crystallite size decreases with increased MgO concentration. Magnesia surface excess was calculated by washing powders with HNO{sub 3} and the soluble Mg ions concentration determined by chemical analysis. FTIR analysis confirms that the acid washing modified the particle surface. Therefore, it is proposed that the reduction of the crystallite size occurs due to segregation of MgO on TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles surfaces. (author)

  14. Influence of domain on grain size effects of the dielectric properties of BaTiO3 nanoceramics and nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fang Chao; Chen Liangyan; Zhou Dongxiang

    2013-01-01

    The dielectric property of BaTiO 3 nanoparticles and nanoceramics has been studied on the basis of Ginsburg-Landau-Devonshire thermodynamic theory. In this paper, considering nanodomains, Landau coefficients have been written as a function of grain size, and the dielectric constant of the material has been calculated at a variety of temperatures and grain size. The results indicate that with decreasing grain size, the dielectric peak decreases. The two lower dielectric peaks of the orthorhombic-rhombohedral phase and tetragonal-orthorhombic phase move to higher temperature, while cubic-tetragonal phase dielectric peak moves to lower temperature. The dielectric constant of BaTiO 3 ceramics decreases with decreasing grain size. The dielectric constant peak at room temperature is at the grain size which is larger than the critical grain size 17-30 nm. The calculated result is consistent with the experimental data.

  15. Ni/TiO2 composite electrocoatings

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kollia, C.

    2005-12-01

    Full Text Available Nickel composite coatings have been studied in order to provide increased properties on engineering materials surfaces, such as higher electrical conductivity, wear and corrosion resistance and to decrease the end product manufacturing cost by plating on cheap materials. Adding TiO2 particles in the bath during the deposition process produced composite coatings. This was tried on electrodeposition from a Watts bath by conventional DC conditions and by pulse plating. The surfaces were studied by SEM, by profilometry and by Vickers microhardness, and its structure by X-ray diffraction. The incorporation percentage of TiO2 particles in the metallic matrix was estimated by EDS analysis. Corrosion measurements of the deposits were taken by Tafel curves. The results obtained show that particle incorporation percentage is higher for the Ni/TiO2 electrodeposits produced by pulse current and the microhardness is significantly increased compared to the electrodeposits produced by DC.

    Los electrodepósitos compuestos de níquel confieren mejores propiedades a la superficies de los materiales utilizados en ingeniería, tales como conductividad eléctrica, desgaste y resistencia a la corrosión, y disminuyen el costo del producto manufacturado al utilizarse como recubrimiento de acabado sobre materiales base más económicos. La adición de partículas de TiO2 al baño durante la electrodeposicion da lugar a la formación de recubrimientos compuestos. La electrodeposicion se llevó cabo en un baño Watts en condiciones convencionales de corriente continua y por electrodepósito pulsante. Las superficies fueron estudiadas por SEM y microanálisis EDS; se midió su microrrugosidad y microdureza Vickers; y su estructura se analizó mediante Difracción de Rayos X. Las medidas de corrosión de los depósitos se realizaron a partir del trazado de curvas de Tafel. Los resultados muestran que el porcentaje de

  16. Determination of mercury and selenium in herbal medicines and hair by using a nanometer TiO2-coated quartz tube atomizer and hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Shun-Xing; Zheng, Feng-Ying; Cai, Shu-Jie; Cai, Tian-Shou

    2011-01-01

    The nanometer TiO 2 particle was coated onto the inner wall of a T-shaped quartz tube atomizer (QTA) and then was used as a new atomizer (NT-QTA) for the determination of Hg and Se by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HGAAS). After coating 67.4 mg TiO 2 on a quartz tube, the analytical performance of NT-QTA-HGAAS was compared to conventional QTA-HGAAS and it was improved as follows: (a) the linear range of the calibration curves was expanded from 10.0-80.0 ng mL -1 to 5.0-150.0 ng mL -1 for Hg, and from 10.0-70.0 ng mL -1 to 5.0-100.0 ng mL -1 for Se; (b) the characteristic concentration of was decreased from 2.8 ng mL -1 /1% to 1.1 ng mL -1 /1% for Hg and from 1.2 ng mL -1 /1% to 0.8 ng mL -1 /1% for Se; and (c) the interference from the coexistence of As on the determination of Hg and Se could be eliminated. The achieved technique was applied for the determination of Hg and Se in herbal medicines and hair.

  17. Thermally processed titanium oxides film on Si(0 0 1) surface studied with scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aoki, T.; Shudo, K.; Sato, K.; Ohno, S.; Tanaka, M.

    2010-01-01

    Thermal structural changes of TiO x films built on a Si(0 0 1) surface were investigated at the nanometer scale with scanning tunneling microscopy. Electronic properties of individual clusters were classified by means of scanning tunneling spectroscopy. The differential conductance (dI/dV) near the Fermi energy showed that nano-clusters were transformed from semiconducting Ti-silicates into metallic Ti-silicides after heating to 970 K. Peaks of normalized differential conductance (dI/dV/(I/V)) of the clusters shifted after heating to about 1070 K, indicating exclusion of oxygen from the clusters.

  18. Visible light water oxidation using a co-catalyst loaded anatase-structured Ti(1-(5x/4))Nb(x)O(2-y-δ)N(y) compound.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Breault, Tanya M; Brancho, James J; Guo, Ping; Bartlett, Bart M

    2013-08-19

    The photocatalytic activity of anatase-structured Ti(1-(5x/4))Nb(x)O(2-y-δ)N(y) (x = 0.25, y = 0.02; NbN-25) was examined for water oxidation under UV and visible light irradiation. The semiconductor was prepared by sol-gel processing followed by nitridation in flowing ammonia and exhibits an indirect optical gap of 2.2 eV. Ti(1-(5x/4))Nb(x)O(2-y-δ)N(y) was loaded with RuO2 by an impregnation technique, and optimized conditions reveal that 1 wt % RuO2 generates 16 μmol O2 from water with concomitant IO3(-) reduction after 3 h of illumination under simulated solar radiation at a flux of 600 mW/cm(2) illumination, which corresponds to 6-sun AM1.5G illumination (compared to no detectible O2 without the RuO2 cocatalyst). A series of cut-on filters shows that the catalyst-loaded semiconductor evolves O2 for λ ≤ 515 nm, and a gas-phase mass spectrometry isotope labeling experiment shows that irradiating an iodate solution in H2(18)O in the presence of 1 wt % RuO2 loaded on NbN-25 gives rise to catalytic water oxidation: both (36)O2 and (34)O2 are observed. It is unclear whether (16)O arises from IO3(-) or surface reconstruction on the photocatalyst, but ICP-AES analysis of the postirradiated solution shows no dissolved metal ions.

  19. Tailoring the magnetic properties of cobalt-ferrite nanoclusters

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vega, A. Estrada de la; Garza-Navarro, M. A., E-mail: marco.garzanr@uanl.edu.mx; Durán-Guerrero, J. G.; Moreno Cortez, I. E.; Lucio-Porto, R.; González-González, V. [Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica (Mexico)

    2016-01-15

    In this contribution, we report on the tuning of magnetic properties of cobalt-ferrite nanoclusters. The cobalt-ferrite nanoclusters were synthesized from a two-step approach that consists of the synthesis of cobalt-ferrite nanoparticles in organic media, followed by their dispersion into aqueous dissolution to form an oil-in-water emulsion. These emulsions were prepared at three different concentrations of the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), in order to control the size and clustering density of the nanoparticles in the nanoclusters. The synthesized samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and their related techniques, such as bright-field and Z-contrast imaging, electron diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry; as well as static magnetic measures. The experimental evidence indicates that the size, morphology, and nanoparticles clustering density in the nanoclusters is highly dependent of the cobalt-ferrite:CTAB molar ratio that is used in their synthesis. In addition, due to the clustering of the nanoparticles into the nanoclusters, their magnetic moments are blocked to relax cooperatively. Hence, the magnetic response of the nanoclusters can be tailored by controlling the size and nanoparticles clustering density.

  20. Comparison Study on the Microstructure of Nanocrystalline TiO2 in Different Ti-Si Binary Oxides

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    2007-01-01

    Three different Ti-Si oxide structuares, silica supported titania, silica coated titania and intimately mixed silicatitania, containing 10%-40% SiO2, were made by sol-gel process. The variations of microstructure parameters of nanocrystalline (nc) TiO2-anatase in the three kirds of binary oxides, including in-plane spacing d, cell constants (a0, CQ), cell volume V, cell axial ratio c0/a0 and crystal grain size, were comparatively investigated by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). It is found that the microstructure parameters vary remarkably with increasing SiO2 content and annealing temperature. Different structured Ti-Si binary oxides lead to different variation tendencies of microstructure parameters. The more SiO2 the binary oxide contains, the more lattice defects of nc TiO2-anatase appear; diffusion or migration of Si cations could be an important influential factor in the variations of microstructure. The grain size of nc TiO2 in the three kinds of binary oxides not only depends on SiO2 content and annealing temperature but also on the degree of lattice microstrain and distortion of nc TiO2-anatase. Both grain size and phase transformation of nc TiO2-anatase are effectively inhibited with increasing SiOa content.

  1. Particle-size effect on the rate of TiO2 carbonizing

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lekanova, T.L.; Ryabkov, Yu.I.; Sevbo, O.A.

    2003-01-01

    Dependence of recovery rate constant of titanium dioxide in TiO 2 -C system on the value of specific surface initial components at 1300 deg C was studied. It is shown that decrease in equivalent particle size of titanium dioxide and carbon particles in the range of 500-100 μm has a similar effect on increase in titanium dioxide recovery rate. Analysis of kinetic equations suggests diffusion character of titanium dioxide carbonizing at the values of initial components specific surface in excess of 100 m 2 /g [ru

  2. Iron/iron oxide core-shell nanoclusters for biomedical applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qiang You; Antony, Jiji; Sharma, Amit; Nutting, Joseph; Sikes, Daniel; Meyer, Daniel

    2006-01-01

    Biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles have been found promising in several biomedical applications for tagging, imaging, sensing and separation in recent years. Most magnetic particles or beads currently used in biomedical applications are based on ferromagnetic iron oxides with very low specific magnetic moments of about 20-30 emu/g. Here we report a new approach to synthesize monodispersed core-shell nanostructured clusters with high specific magnetic moments above 200 emu/g. Iron nanoclusters with monodispersive size of diameters from 2 nm to 100 nm are produced by our newly developed nanocluster source and go to a deposition chamber, where a chemical reaction starts, and the nanoclusters are coated with iron oxides. HRTEM Images show the coatings are very uniform and stable. The core-shell nanoclusters are superparamagnetic at room temperature for sizes less than 15 nm, and then become ferromagnetic when the cluster size increases. The specific magnetic moment of core-shell nanoclusters is size dependent, and increases rapidly from about 80 emu/g at the cluster size of around 3 nm to over 200 emu/g up to the size of 100 nm. The use of high magnetic moment nanoclusters for biomedical applications could dramatically enhance the contrast for MRI, reduce the concentration of magnetic particle needs for cell separation, or make drug delivery possible with much lower magnetic field gradients

  3. Solid State Formation Mechanism of Li4Ti5O12 from an Anatase TiO2 Source

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Shen, Yanbin; Søndergaard, Martin; Christensen, Mogens

    2014-01-01

    Solid state synthesis of Li4Ti5O12 anode material for Li ion batteries typically results in products containing rutile TiO2 and Li2TiO3 impurities, and subsequent high calcination temperatures lead to particle growth that reduces capacity and rate ability. Here, the formation and growth of Li4Ti5O......12 particles by a solid-state reaction using anatase TiO2 with various crystallite sizes and Li2CO3 is investigated by in situ high temperature powder X-ray diffraction (HT-PXRD) and thermal gravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The combined data provide insight into the origin...... crystallite sizes (∼50 nm, ∼30 nm, ∼20 nm, and amorphous) were explored, and decreasing crystallite sizes causes a reduced initial reaction temperature. Using anatase with a crystallite size of ∼20 nm resulted in phase pure Li4Ti5O12 at the lowest temperature (800 °C). PXRD and TG-DTA results also revealed...

  4. Experimental elaboration and analysis of dye-sensitized TiO2 solar cells (DSSC) dyed by natural dyes and conductive polymers

    Science.gov (United States)

    KałuŻyński, P.; Maciak, E.; Herzog, T.; Wójcik, M.

    2016-09-01

    In this paper we propose low cost and easy in development fully working dye-sensitized solar cell module made with use of a different sensitizing dyes (various anthocyanins and P3HT) for increasing the absorption spectrum, transparent conducting substrates (vaccum spattered chromium and gold), nanometer sized TiO2 film, iodide and methyl viologen dichloride based electrolyte, and a counter electrode (vaccum spattered platinum or carbon). Moreover, some of the different technologies and optimization manufacturing processes were elaborated for energy efficiency increase and were presented in this paper.

  5. 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

  6. Bonding of gold nanoclusters to oxygen vacancies on rutile TiO2(110)

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Lopez, Nuria; schaub, R.; Thostrup, P.

    2003-01-01

    Through an interplay between scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we show that bridging oxygen vacancies are the active nucleation sites for Au clusters on the rutile TiO2(110) surface. We find that a direct correlation exists between a decrease in...

  7. Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Alseadi, Anwar Abdulaziz

    With the increasing global energy consumption and diminishing fossil fuels, various renewable and sustainable energies have been harvested in past decades and related devices have been fabricated. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are the most efficient third-generation solar cells to harvest solar energy into electricity directly. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) based DSSCs were invented in 1988 and have attracted more and more attention since then because of low-cost and high efficiency. TiO2 nanoparticles are one kind of popular anode materials of DSSC because of stability, abundance, environment safety, non-toxicity, and excellent photovoltaic properties. In the project, TiO2 nanoparticles with different crystallographic sizes were produced by ball-milling. Physical properties of the produced TiO 2 nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, UV-visible spectroscopy, and Raman scattering. TiO2-based DSSCs were fabricated and their photovoltaic performances were tested. The effects of TiO2 layer thickness, crystallographic size, and microsphere fillings were investigated. The project enriched our understanding of TiO2-based DSSCs.

  8. Atomic investigation of alloying Cr, Ti, Y additions in a grain boundary of vanadium

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Pengbo, E-mail: zhangpb@dlmu.edu.cn [Department of Physics, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026 (China); Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion and Electron Beams, Dalian University of Technology, Ministry of Education, Dalian 116024 (China); Li, Xiaojie; Zhao, Jijun [Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion and Electron Beams, Dalian University of Technology, Ministry of Education, Dalian 116024 (China); Zheng, Pengfei; Chen, Jiming [Southwestern Institute of Physics, Chengdu 610041 (China)

    2016-01-15

    The effect of alloying additions (Cr, Ti and Y) in a vanadium (V) ∑3 (111) grain boundary (GB) is investigated by first-principles calculations. To determine site preference and segregation properties of Cr, Ti and Y in the GB and bulk, we calculate the formation energies and segregation energies for different interstitial and substitutional sites. Cr/Ti/Y atom prefers to segregate to the substitutional sites of the GB from bulk environment, whereas Cr segregation to GB is very weak. Based on the Rice and Wang's model, Cr acts as the GB cohesion, while Ti and Y are strong embrittlers. The analysis of atomic and electronic structures provides a reasonable expansion for the embrittlement behavior. Moreover, the effect of Cr, Ti and Y in the GB on solution of interstitial impurities C, N, O, H, and He are determined. The results show that Cr restrains solution of these impurities in the GB, while Ti tends to form Ti–N complex by absorbing N impurities and Y can absorbs O and He impurities. The present calculations are helpful for understanding the behavior of alloying Cr, Ti, Y additions at the grain boundary of vanadium.

  9. FACTORES QUE AFECTAN LA TEXTURA Y ESTRUCTURA DE Ti(R-MCM-41 FACTORES QUE AFECTAN LA TEXTURA Y ESTRUCTURA DE Ti(R-MCM-41

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J. Ramírez Solís

    2012-02-01

    Full Text Available Se ha estudiado el efecto que tienen el método de remoción del surfactante y el contenido de titanio sobre la estructura y propiedades texturales de los materiales mesoporosos Ti-MCM-41. Los sólidos sintetizados fueron caracterizados por fisisorción de N2, fluorescencia de rayos X (FRX, difracción de rayos X (DRX, microscopía electrónica de alta resolución (HREM, espectroscopía FT-Raman y de reflectancia difusa UV-vis. (DRS. Entre los dos métodos de remoción del surfactante estudiados, la aplicación de un disolvente polar (solución de H2SO4 0.05 M en etanol resultó ser más efectivo para remover el surfactante y disminuir la destrucción del material mesoporoso durante la calcinación. Las muestras tratadas con este método presentaron un mayor orden en el arreglo hexagonal de los poros (HREM, DRX y áreas superficiales más grandes. El efecto del aumento del contenido de TiO2 en los sólidos sintetizados se traduce en una disminución significativa de la intensidad del pico característico de MCM-41 (2Q = 2.2-2.5o y de las características texturales (SBET, volumen de poros, lo que indica que durante la síntesis no es posible incorporar más de 10 mol. % de TiO2 al MCM-41.Studied was the effect surfactant removal and titanium content have on the structure and textural properties of Ti-MCM-41 mesoporous materials. The synthesized solids were characterized by N2 adsorption, X-ray fluorescence (FRX, X-ray diffraction (DRX, electronic microscopy of high resolution(HREM, and FT-Raman and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS. Between the two methods of surfactant removal studied, the application of a polar solvent (solution of 0.05 M H2SO4 in ethanol was to be more effective in removing the surfactant and diminishing the destruction of mesoporous material during calcination. The samples treated by this method showed a more ordered hexagonal pore arrangement (HREM, XRD and larger surface area. The effect of an increase in TiO2

  10. NaLaTi_2O_6 nanosheet as a potential anode material for lithium ion batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Geng, Qiao; Cao, Liyun; Kong, Xingang; Xu, Zhanwei; Huang, Jianfeng; Li, Jiayin; Cheng, Yayi

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • NaLaTi_2O_6 nanosheet was achieved by a simple one-step hydrothermal method. • NaLaTi_2O_6 was reported for the first time as an anode material. • NaLaTi_2O_6 shown a high discharge capacity of about 180 mAh/g at 100 mA/g. - Abstract: NaLaTi_2O_6 nanosheet was achieved by one-step hydrothermal method and was reported for the first time as an anode material for lithium ion batteries. The phase structure and morphology analysis reveals that pure pervoskite NaLaTi_2O_6 possesses nanosheet morphology with thickness of about 20 nm and length of several hundred nanometers. The electrochemical performances demonstrate that NaLaTi_2O_6 has a good lithium ion insertion/extraction ability with a discharge capacity of about 180 mAh/g, which is slightly larger than Li_4Ti_5O_1_2 theoretical capacity (175 mAh/g). Even more, after 1000 charge-discharge cycles at 100 mA/g, it still maintains a discharge capacity of 165 mAh/g, suggesting that NaLaTi_2O_6 could be explored as a potential anode material for lithium ion batteries.

  11. Annealing effect on corrosion resistance of Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z} coatings

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pinzon, M. J.; Alfonsoa, J. E.; Olaya, J. J. [Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Grupo de Ciencia de Materiales y Superficies, Bogota AA 14490 (Colombia); Pineda Vargas, C. A., E-mail: jealfonsoo@unal.edu.co [iThemba LABS, Materials Research Department, PO Box 722, Somerset West 7129 (South Africa)

    2016-11-01

    Bismuth titanate (Bi-xTi{sub y}O{sub z}) has received widespread attention due to the fact that during recent times it has found important applications in strategic research fields such as optics and optoelectronic, and more recently studies have shown how their physicochemical properties may be harnessed in order to be able to use Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z}, as an anti corrosive coating. In this work bismuth titanate (Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z}) coatings were grown on titanium alloy (Ti6A14V) substrates, using RF magnetron sputtering at room temperature. The main objectives of the work were quantify the evolution of crystallographic phase formation, as a function of the annealing temperature, and establish the chemical composition in order to characterize the behaviour of the bismuth titanate coating as a protective coating of the corrosion. The morphology of the coating was observed via scanning electronic microscopy (Sem); the crystalline structure was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the chemical composition was analyzed by Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). The corrosion resistance of the coatings was studied by potentiodynamic polarization (Pp) test (Tafel extrapolation). Sem results showed that the surface roughness of the coatings changed when the temperature of annealing increased. Similar change occurred after Pp tests. The XRD analysis revealed a change in the coatings microstructure as a function of the annealing temperature, since they evolved from a completely amorphous phase to a polycrystalline phase. RBS results indicate that coatings growing at high temperature have a complex chemical composition. Finally, the electrochemical analysis showed that the corrosion resistance of the coating is much better in the amorphous phases of bismuth titanate than in the polycrystalline phases. (Author)

  12. Sol-gel synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles and photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange in aqueous TiO2 suspensions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yang Huaming; Zhang Ke; Shi Rongrong; Li Xianwei; Dong Xiaodan; Yu Yongmei

    2006-01-01

    Anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles of about 16 nm in crystal size have been successfully synthesized via a sol-gel method. Thermal treatment of the precursor at 500-600 deg. C results in the formation of different TiO 2 phase compositions. The samples were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Effects of the pH value of the solution, H 2 O 2 addition, TiO 2 phase composition and recycled TiO 2 on the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MeO) in TiO 2 suspensions under ultraviolet (UV) illumination were primarily investigated. The results indicate that a low pH value, proper amount of H 2 O 2 and pure anatase TiO 2 will facilitate the photocatalytic oxidation of the MeO solution. The photodegradation degree decreases with increasing the pH value of the solution and varies with different amounts of H 2 O 2 . Pure anatase TiO 2 shows better photocatalytic activity for MeO decolorization than biphase TiO 2 . The photocatalytic mechanism of the as-synthesized TiO 2 nanoparticles was discussed

  13. Estudio sobre el Gobierno y la Gestión de la T.I. en las empresas

    OpenAIRE

    Pérez Sallán, Patricia

    2016-01-01

    Estudio y recopilación de información sobre el Gobierno y la Gestión Corporativa y de TI de empresas españolas especializadas o no en el campo de las TI. Comparativa de sus métodos de Gobierno y Gestión TI, además de la Gestión de sus proyectos de trabajo (si fuera posible). Observar los resultados obtenidos para conocer la relación (nivel de implementación, perfil, satisfacción) de las empresas españolas con los marcos y estándares de Gobierno y Gestión TI actuales o las buenas prácticas que...

  14. Observation of nanometer-sized electro-active defects in insulating layers by fluorescence microscopy and electrochemistry.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Renault, Christophe; Marchuk, Kyle; Ahn, Hyun S; Titus, Eric J; Kim, Jiyeon; Willets, Katherine A; Bard, Allen J

    2015-06-02

    We report a method to study electro-active defects in passivated electrodes. This method couples fluorescence microscopy and electrochemistry to localize and size electro-active defects. The method was validated by comparison with a scanning probe technique, scanning electrochemical microscopy. We used our method for studying electro-active defects in thin TiO2 layers electrodeposited on 25 μm diameter Pt ultramicroelectrodes (UMEs). The permeability of the TiO2 layer was estimated by measuring the oxidation of ferrocenemethanol at the UME. Blocking of current ranging from 91.4 to 99.8% was achieved. Electro-active defects with an average radius ranging between 9 and 90 nm were observed in these TiO2 blocking layers. The distribution of electro-active defects over the TiO2 layer is highly inhomogeneous and the number of electro-active defect increases for lower degree of current blocking. The interest of the proposed technique is the possibility to quickly (less than 15 min) image samples as large as several hundreds of μm(2) while being able to detect electro-active defects of only a few tens of nm in radius.

  15. Electron microscopy study of microstructure of the oxide-dispersion-strengthed steel

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xing, H.; Sun, J.; Zhou, Z.J.

    2010-01-01

    The microstructure of the ODS ferritic-martensitic steel with chemical composition of Fe-12Cr-2W-0.5Ti-0.2V-0.2Si-0.13C-0.35Y 2 O 3 wt% fabricated by MA and HIP has been investigated by TEM. The emphasis is focused on the structure and chemical composition of the fine ODS particles and inclusions. The results showed that two types of complex ODS particles such as Y-Ti-O and Y-Si-O with nanometer size distribute homogeneously and incoherently in the matrix of the steel. Additionally, large (Ti,V)N inclusions were observed in the steel. The results of microstructural characterization are discussed to correlate with the processing and mechanical properties of the ODS steel. (author)

  16. Complex impedance study on nano-CeO2 coating TiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Mei; Wang Honglian; Wang Xidong; Li Wenchao

    2006-01-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles and cerium dioxide (CeO 2 ) nanoparticles coated titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles (CeO 2 -TiO 2 nanoparticles) have been successfully synthesized by sol-gel method. The complex impedance of the materials was investigated. The grain resistance, boundary resistance and activation energy of the nanoparticles were calculated according to Arrhenius equation. According to calculating results, the active capacity of pure TiO 2 nanoparticles has been improved because of nano-CeO 2 coating. An optimal CeO 2 content of 4.9 mol% was achieved. The high resolution electron microscopy images of CeO 2 -TiO 2 nanoparticles showed that TiO 2 nanoparticles, as a core, were covered by CeO 2 nanoparticles. The average size of CeO 2 coating TiO 2 nanoparticles was about 70 nm. Scanning electron microscopy observation indicted that CeO 2 nanoparticle coating improved the separation, insulation, and stability the CeO 2 -TiO 2 nanoparticles, which was benefit to the activity of materials

  17. Enhanced photocatalysts based on Ag-TiO2 and Ag-N-TiO2 nanoparticles for multifunctional leather surface coating

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gaidau Carmen

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The Ag deposition on TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-TiO2 NPs and N-TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-N-TiO2 NPs has been made by electrochemical methodology in view of improved antibacterial properties and enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The particle size in powder and in dispersion showed similar values and good stability in aqueous medium which made them suitable for use in leather surface covering for new multifunctional properties development. The diffuse reflectance spectra of Ag-TiO2 NPs, Ag-N-TiO2 NPs and TiO2 NPs have been investigated and correlated with their photocatalytic performances under UV and visible light against different silver concentrations. The leather surfaces treated with Ag-N-TiO2 NPs showed advanced self-cleaning properties under visible light exposure through the hydrophilic mechanism of organic soil decomposition. Moreover the bacterial sensitivity and proven fungitoxic properties of Ag-N-TiO2 NPs leads to the possibility of designing new multifunctional additives to extend the advanced applications for more durable and useable materials.

  18. Stability of Zn–Ni–TiO2 and Zn–TiO2 nanocomposite coatings in near-neutral sulphate solutions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gomes, A.; Almeida, I.; Frade, T.; Tavares, A. C.

    2012-01-01

    Zn–Ni–TiO 2 and Zn–TiO 2 nanocomposites were prepared by galvanostatic cathodic square wave deposition. X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy revealed that the occlusion of TiO 2 nanoparticles (spherical shaped with diameter between 19.5 and 24.2 nm) promotes the formation of the γ-Ni 5 Zn 21 phase, changes the preferred crystallographic orientation of Zn from (101) and (102) planes to (002), and decreases the particle size of the metallic matrices. The stability of the nanocomposites immersed in near-neutral 0.05 mold m −3 Na 2 SO 4 solution (pH 6.2) was investigated over 24 h. The initial open circuit potential for the Zn–Ni–TiO 2 and Zn–TiO 2 coatings were −1.32 and −1.51 V (vs. Hg/Hg 2 SO 4 ), respectively, and changed to −1.10 and –1.49 V (vs. Hg/Hg 2 SO 4 ) after 24 h of immersion. Data extracted from the steady state polarization curves demonstrated that the metal–TiO 2 nanocomposites have, with respect to the metal coatings, a higher corrosion potential in the case of the Zn–Ni alloy composite; a lower corrosion potential in the case of Zn-based nanocomposite albeit the predominant (002) crystallographic orientation; and a lower initial corrosion resistance due to the smaller grain size and higher porosity in the Zn–Ni–TiO 2 and Zn–TiO 2 nanocomposites. Morphological and chemical analyses showed that a thicker passive layer is formed on the surface of the Zn–Ni–TiO 2 and Zn–TiO 2 deposits. After 24 h of immersion in the sulphate solution, the Zn–Ni–TiO 2 coating has the highest corrosion stability due to the double-protective action created by the deposit’s surface enrichment in Ni plus the higher amount of corrosion products.

  19. Thermal infrared and microwave absorbing properties of SrTiO{sub 3}/SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}/polyaniline nanocomposites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hosseini, Seyed Hossein, E-mail: shhosseini@iiau.ac.ir [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Zamani, Parisa [Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Mousavi, S.Y. [Faculty of Passive Defense, Imam Hossein University, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2015-09-25

    Graphical abstract: We have developed a new perspective of applications and properties of conducting polymers. The combination of absorption ability prepared nanocomposites in the present of PANI display a great potential in organization of shielding structures into thermal IR and microwave. Further investigations using other conducting polymers to demonstrate their capability for advance thermal IR and microwave shielding devices is under way. The application of these samples may improve the IR thermographic detection, catalysis, sensors, magnetic data storage, electromagnetic resonance wave absorption, photonic crystals, and microelectronic devices and military aspects. - Highlights: • The SrTiO{sub 3}/SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}/PANI exhibited electric and electromagnetic properties. • The SrTiO{sub 3}/SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}/PANI has shielding structures into thermal IR and microwave. • Increasing weight ratios and thicknesses will increase thermal IR ability. • Increasing weight ratios and thicknesses will increase microwave absorption ability. - Abstract: Polyaniline (PANI) as a unique polymer that also has electromagnetic absorption used as the substrate. In this research, SrTiO{sub 3} was synthesized as IR absorbent and core and then SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} as microwave absorbent was prepared on SrTiO{sub 3} via co-precipitation method as the first shell. As the next step, PANI was coated on SrTiO{sub 3}/SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} nanoparticles via in situ polymerization by multi core–shell structures (SrTiO{sub 3}/SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}/PANI). Nanometer size and structures of samples were measured by TEM, XRD and FTIR. Morphology of nanocomposite was showed by SEM images. The magnetic and electric properties were also performed by VSM and four probe techniques. Thermal infrared (IR) absorption and microwave reflection loss of nanocomposites were investigated at 10–40 μm and 8–12 GHz, IR and microwave frequencies, respectively. The results showed that the SrTiO

  20. Toxicological aspects of photocatalytic degradation of selected xenobiotics with nano-sized Mn-doped TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ozmen, Murat, E-mail: murat.ozmen@inonu.edu.tr [Inonu University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Malatya (Turkey); Güngördü, Abbas [Inonu University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Malatya (Turkey); Erdemoglu, Sema [Inonu University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Malatya (Turkey); Ozmen, Nesrin [Inonu University, Faculty of Education, Department of Science Teaching Program, Malatya (Turkey); Asilturk, Meltem [Akdeniz University, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Antalya (Turkey)

    2015-08-15

    Highlights: • Undoped and Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized. • The photocatalytic efficiency of the photocatalysts was evaluated for BPA and ATZ. • Toxicity of photocatalysts and photocatalytic by-products were determined. • Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles did not cause significant lethality on X. laevis. • Degradation of BPA caused a significant reduction of lethal effects. - Abstract: The toxic effects of two selected xenobiotics, bisphenol A (BPA) and atrazine (ATZ), were evaluated after photocatalytic degradation using nano-sized, Mn-doped TiO{sub 2}. Undoped and Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–vis-diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), and BET surface area. The photocatalytic efficiency of the undoped and Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} was evaluated for BPA and ATZ. The toxicity of the synthesized photocatalysts and photocatalytic by-products of BPA and ATZ was determined using frog embryos and tadpoles, zebrafish embryos, and bioluminescent bacteria. Possible toxic effects were also evaluated using selected enzyme biomarkers. The results showed that Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles did not cause significant lethality in Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles, but nonfiltered samples caused lethality in zebrafish. Furthermore, Mn-doping of TiO{sub 2} increased the photocatalytic degradation capability of nanoparticles, and it successfully degraded BPA and AZT, but degradation of AZT caused an increase of the lethal effects on both tadpoles and fish embryos. Degradation of BPA caused a significant reduction of lethal effects, especially after 2–4 h of degradation. However, biochemical assays showed that both Mn-doped TiO{sub 2} and the degradation by-products caused a significant change of selected biomarkers on X. laevis tadpoles; thus, the ecological risks of Mn

  1. Synthesis of low loss, thermally stable CexY1-xTiTaO6 microwave ceramics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Padma Kumar, H.; John, Annamma; Vijayakumar, C.; Thomas, J.K.; Varma, Manoj Raama; Solomon, Sam

    2009-01-01

    Ce x Y 1-x TiTaO 6 ceramics were prepared through the solid-state ceramic route. The materials were sintered in the range 1520-1580 deg. C. The structure of the system was analyzed by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic methods. The cell parameters of solid solutions were calculated using the least square method. The microstructure was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric constant (ε r ), temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ f ) and the unloaded quality factor (Q u ) are measured in the microwave frequency region using cavity resonator method. The dielectric constant increases with higher concentrations of Ce in the solid solutions. Nearly zero temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ f ) was obtained for Ce 0.24 Y 0.76 TiTaO 6 . The samples are of high quality factor and are useful electronic materials for microwave applications

  2. The Size of Activating and Inhibitory Killer Ig-like Receptor Nanoclusters Is Controlled by the Transmembrane Sequence and Affects Signaling

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Anna Oszmiana

    2016-05-01

    Full Text Available Super-resolution microscopy has revealed that immune cell receptors are organized in nanoscale clusters at cell surfaces and immune synapses. However, mechanisms and functions for this nanoscale organization remain unclear. Here, we used super-resolution microscopy to compare the surface organization of paired killer Ig-like receptors (KIR, KIR2DL1 and KIR2DS1, on human primary natural killer cells and cell lines. Activating KIR2DS1 assembled in clusters two-fold larger than its inhibitory counterpart KIR2DL1. Site-directed mutagenesis established that the size of nanoclusters is controlled by transmembrane amino acid 233, a lysine in KIR2DS1. Super-resolution microscopy also revealed two ways in which the nanoscale clustering of KIR affects signaling. First, KIR2DS1 and DAP12 nanoclusters are juxtaposed in the resting cell state but coalesce upon receptor ligation. Second, quantitative super-resolution microscopy revealed that phosphorylation of the kinase ZAP-70 or phosphatase SHP-1 is favored in larger KIR nanoclusters. Thus, the size of KIR nanoclusters depends on the transmembrane sequence and affects downstream signaling.

  3. Estudio del perfil de defectos y de las propiedades eléctricas de BaTiO3 dopado con Nb y La

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Castro, M. S.

    2002-02-01

    ía estar asociado con un comportamiento aceptor del La al incorporarse en los sitios de Ti. Por otra parte, se ha verificado que la concentración de dopante también condiciona las propiedades eléctricas obtenidas. En efecto, en los dos sistemas estudiados se observó que para materiales dopados con una baja concentración de aditivo existe un comportamiento eléctrico tipo semiconductor a temperatura ambiente, con un efecto PTCR. Por el contrario, se ha verificado que altas concentraciones de aditivo producen un material con importantes características GBBL a temperatura ambiente y un comportamiento resistivo tipo NTCR al incrementarse la temperatura. En este caso, la reducción de un gran contenido de vacantes iónicas tipo VBa” y la existencia de una fase vítrea rodeando los granos originan un material altamente resistivo. Este fenómeno refuerza la hipótesis en la cual vacantes de bario actúan como centros aceptores en los bordes de grano de BaTiO3.

  4. Three-dimensional self-branching anatase TiO_2 nanorods with the improved carrier collection for SrTiO_3-based perovskite solar cells

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hu, Yajing; Wang, Chen; Tang, Ying; Huang, Lu; Fu, Jianxun; Shi, Weimin; Wang, Linjun; Yang, Weiguang

    2016-01-01

    The organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells based on ternary oxide SrTiO_3 shows a higher Voc, attributed to its slightly higher conduction band edge and better morphology of absorber material. However, its less efficient carrier collection and limited overall interfacial areas between the absorber material and the electron-transport layer (ETL), dramatically reducing the Jsc. Here, By adjusting the concentrations of the Ti(OBu)_4, we successfully prepared the three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO_2 nanorod/SrTiO_3 nanocomposites, and slightly tuned the particle size of SrTiO_3. With the incorporation of the three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO_2 nanorod, the Jsc of the device based on SrTiO_3 was highly boosted. The best performing solar cell we obtained exhibited a PCE of 9.99% with a Jsc of 19.48 mA/cm"2. The excellent performance could be ascribed to the improvement of charge carrier collection of SrTiO_3, better surface coverage and crystallinity of CH_3NH_3PbI_3, and enhanced light scattering ability caused by 3D self-branching anatase TiO_2 nanorods. - Highlights: • The three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO_2 nanorod/SrTiO_3 nanocomposites were prepared. • The particle sizes of SrTiO_3 can be slightly tuned. • The best performing solar cell we obtained exhibited a PCE of 9.99% with the Jsc of 19.48 mA/cm"2.

  5. XAFS Studies of Fe Doped PhTiO3 Nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shibata, Tomohiro; Chattopadhyay, Soma; Lin Bin; Palkar, V. R.

    2007-01-01

    Fe K and Ti K edge XAFS studies are reported on Fe doped PbTiO3 nanoparticles down to the 10 nm size. Fe forms Fe3+ ions and substitute for Ti4+ ions. For 18 nm nanoparticles, the Fe and Ti environment is found to be quite different. For PbFe0.5Ti0.5O3, locally the structure remains distorted from bulk to 10 nm size although the average structure changes

  6. Topotactic reduction and reoxidation of hexagonal RCu0.5Ti0.5O3 (R = Y, Eu-Lu) Phases

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jiang, Peng; Berthelot, Romain; Li, Jun; Sleight, A.W.; Subramanian, M.A.

    2013-01-01

    Highlights: ► Topotactic reduction of hexagonal RCu 0.5 Ti 0.5 O 3 phases is performed. ► TGA and magnetism indicate a formula of RCu 0.5 Ti 0.5 O 2.78 for the reduced phase. ► Topotactic reoxidation occurs on heating these phases to 400 °C in air. - Abstract: Hexagonal AMO 2 and AMO 3 phases have the same basic structure, and intermediate compositions for this structure have been prepared by topotactic oxidation of AMO 2 phases such as RCuO 2 , where R is a trivalent rare earth cation. We now find that such intermediate phases can also be prepared by topotactic reduction of hexagonal RCu 0.5 Ti 0.5 O 3 (R = Y, Tb-Lu) phases. Our TGA and magnetic susceptibility studies indicate a formula of RCu 0.5 Ti 0.5 O 2.78 for these reduced phases. Topotactic reoxidation occurs on heating these phases to 400 °C in air

  7. Novel protonated and hydrated n=1 Ruddlesden-Popper phases, HxNa1-xLaTiO4.yH2O, formed by ion-exchange/intercalation reaction

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nishimoto, Shunsuke; Matsuda, Motohide; Miyake, Michihiro

    2005-01-01

    New derivatives of layered perovskite compounds with H 3 O + ions, H + ions and water molecules in the interlayer, H x Na 1-x LaTiO 4 .yH 2 O, were successfully synthesized by an ion-exchange/intercalation reaction with dilute HCl solution, using an n=1 member of Ruddlesden-Popper phase, NaLaTiO 4 . Powder X-ray diffraction revealed that the layered structure changed from space group P4/nmm with a=3.776(1) and c=13.028(5)A to I4/mmm with a=3.7533(3) and c=28.103(4)A after the ion-exchange/intercalation reaction at pH 5. The change of space group indicates that the perovskite layers are transformed from staggered to an eclipsed configuration through the ion-exchange/intercalation reaction. Thermogravimetric analysis and high-temperature powder X-ray diffraction suggested the existence of the secondary hydrated phase by dehydrating H x Na 1-x LaTiO 4 .yH 2 O at 100 o C

  8. Oxygen Atom Exchange between Gaseous CO2 and TiO2 Nanoclusters

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Civiš, Svatopluk; Ferus, Martin; Zukalová, Markéta; Zukal, Arnošt; Kavan, Ladislav; Jordan, K. D.; Sorescu, D. C.

    2015-01-01

    Roč. 119, č. 7 (2015), s. 3605-3612 ISSN 1932-7447 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA13-07724S; GA ČR(CZ) GAP108/12/0814; GA MŠk(CZ) LD13060; GA MŠk LD14115 Grant - others:COST(XE) CM1104 Institutional support: RVO:61388955 Keywords : TiO2 * carbon dioxide * nanoparticles Subject RIV: CF - Physical ; Theoretical Chemistry Impact factor: 4.509, year: 2015

  9. Size dependence of structural, magnetic, and electrical properties in corundum-type Ti2O3 nanoparticles showing insulator–metal transition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yoshihiro Tsujimoto

    2015-09-01

    Full Text Available Corundum-type Ti2O3 has been investigated over the last half century because it shows unusual insulator–metal (I-M transition over a broad temperature range (420–550 K. In this work, we successfully synthesized Ti2O3 nanoparticles (20, 70, 300 nm in size by the low-temperature reduction between precursors of rutile-type TiO2 and the reductant CaH2, in a non-topotactic manner. The reaction time required for obtaining the reduced phase increases with increasing the particle size. Synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction and electron microscopy studies reveal that the symmetry of all the present samples remains the same as that of bulk samples. However, the particle-size reduction results in three important features compared with bulk samples as follows, (i color shift from dark brown to bluish black, (ii anisotropic volume contraction involving the shrinkage of Ti–Ti bonds in the ab plane and along the c axis, (iii reduction of the I-M transition temperature from 420 K to 350 K. These suggest that the a1g band broadening caused by the surface strain effects, which favors narrowing of the band gap, may play a critical role in the suppression of IM transition.

  10. Highly uniform bipolar resistive switching characteristics in TiO2/BaTiO3/TiO2 multilayer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ma, W. J.; Zhang, X. Y.; Wang, Ying; Zheng, Yue; Lin, S. P.; Luo, J. M.; Wang, B.; Li, Z. X.

    2013-01-01

    Nanoscale multilayer structure TiO 2 /BaTiO 3 /TiO 2 has been fabricated on Pt/Ti/SiO 2 /Si substrate by chemical solution deposition method. Highly uniform bipolar resistive switching (BRS) characteristics have been observed in Pt/TiO 2 /BaTiO 3 /TiO 2 /Pt cells. Analysis of the current-voltage relationship demonstrates that the space-charge-limited current conduction controlled by the localized oxygen vacancies should be important to the resistive switching behavior. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results indicated that oxygen vacancies in TiO 2 play a crucial role in the resistive switching phenomenon and the introduced TiO 2 /BaTiO 3 interfaces result in the high uniformity of bipolar resistive switching characteristics

  11. Characteristics of Sr0.92Y0.08Ti1-yNiyO3-δ anode and Ni-infiltrated Sr0.92Y0.08TiO3-δ anode using CH4 fuel in solid oxide fuel cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Park, Eun Kyoung; Lee, Soonil; Yun, Jeong Woo

    2018-01-01

    Strontium titanium oxide co-doped with yttrium and nickel (SrxY1-xTiyNi1-yO3-δ; hereafter, SYTN), was investigated as an alternative anode material for solid oxide fuel cells. To improve the ionic conductivity of the Sr0.92Y0.08TiO3-δ (SYT) anode, Ni2+ was substituted into the B-site (initially occupied by Ti4+), thereby forming oxygen vacancies. To analyze the effects of Ni-doping in the SYT anode, the electrochemical properties of the SYTN anode were compared with those of the Ni-infiltrated SYT(Ni@SYT) using H2 and CH4 as fuels. The electrochemical reactions at the SYTN anode in the presence of both H2 and CH4 were limited by relatively slow reactions, such as non-charged processes including oxygen surface exchange and solid surface diffusion. The high electrical conductivity and excellent catalytic activity of the Ni nanoparticles in the Ni@SYT anode led to improved cell performance. CH4 decomposition at the Ni@SYT anode occurred via thermal pyrolysis of CH4 rather than by steam methane reforming, resulting in carbon deposition. In comparison, the poor inherent catalytic activity for CH4 oxidation exhibited by the SYTN anode minimized carbon deposition on the anode surface.

  12. Effect of ion plating TiN on the oxidation of sputtered NiCrAlY-coated Ti3Al-Nb in air at 850-950 C

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Rizzo, F.C.; Zeng, C.; Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang; Wu, W.

    1998-01-01

    A single sputtered NiCrAlY coating and a complex coating of inner ion-plated TiN and outer sputtered NiCrAlY were prepared on the intermetallic compound Ti 3 Al-Nb. Their oxidation behavior was examined at 850, 900, and 950 C in air by thermal gravimetry combined with XRD, SEM, and EDAX. The results showed that Ti 3 Al-Nb followed approximately parabolic oxidation, forming an outer thin Al 2 O 3 -rich scale and an inner TiO 2 -rich layer doped with Nb at the three temperatures. The TiO 2 -rich layer doped with Nb dominated the oxidation reaction. The single NiCrAlY coating did not follow parabolic oxidation exactly at 850 and 950 C, but oxidized approximately in a parabolic manner, because the instantaneous parabolic constants changed slightly with time. Besides the Al 2 O 3 scale, TiO 2 formed from the coating surface at the coating-substrate interface. The deterioration of the coating accelerated with increasing temperature. The NiCrAlY-TiN coating showed two-stage parabolic oxidation at 850 and 900 C, and an approximate parabolic oxidation at 950 C. The TiN layer was effective as a barrier to inhibit coating-alloy interdiffusion

  13. Structural evolution and dielectric properties of (Ba{sub 1−x}Nd{sub x})(Ti{sub 1−y}Fe{sub y})O{sub 3} ceramics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Han, D.-D. [Research Center for Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022 (China); College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024 (China); Lu, D.-Y., E-mail: cninjp11232000@yahoo.com [Research Center for Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022 (China); Sun, X.-Y. [Research Center for Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022 (China)

    2013-11-05

    Highlights: •Structural evolution and dielectric properties of (Ba{sub 1−x}Nd{sub x})(Ti{sub 1−y}Fe{sub y})O{sub 3} were studied. •A cubic ceramic with x = y = 0.05 exhibits a high-k Y5V behavior (ε{sub RT}{sup ′} = 6790). •The T{sub m} in BNTF with x = 0.05 decreased linearly at a rate of −5 °C/mol% Fe ions. •Evolution in the 840 cm{sup −1} Raman band gives evidence for Nd{sup 3+}–Fe{sup 3+} complex formation. •Defect chemistry associated with structure evolution is discussed. -- Abstract: The influence of donor and acceptor co-doping on structure and dielectric properties of (Ba{sub 1−x}Nd{sub x})(Ti{sub 1−y}Fe{sub y})O{sub 3} (BNTF) (x = 0.05, y = 0.01–0.07; and x = 0–0.08, y = 0.05) ceramics was investigated with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), Raman spectroscopy, and dielectric measurements. When x < y, two types of Nd{sup 3+}–Fe{sup 3+} and Fe{sup 3+}–V{sub O}–Fe{sup 3+} defect complexes formed and could not coexist, leading to the mixed phases of cubic and hexagonal. A single-phase ceramic with a cubic or tetragonal structure formed for x ⩾ y and the dielectric-peak temperature (T{sub m}) in BNTF with x = 0.05 decreased linearly with increasing y at a rate of −5 °C/mol% Fe ions. A high-k Y5V behavior can be realized at x = y = 0.05 (i.e., C-N5F5). The same concentrations of Nd{sup 3+} and Fe{sup 3+} formed Nd{sup 3+}–Fe{sup 3+} complexes, which could effectively suppress the dielectric loss and silence the 840 cm{sup −1} band called “Raman charge effect” associated with Nd{sup 3+} donors. C-N5F5 exhibited a cubic structure, medium-sized grains (3.3 μm), low dielectric loss (<0.06), and high-k Y5V behavior (ε{sub RT}{sup ′} = 6790). Defect chemistry associated with structure evolution is discussed.

  14. Enhancing the photocatalytic activity of nanocrystalline TiO2 by co-doping with fluorine and yttrium

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Huarong; Miao, Guashuai; Ma, Xingping; Wang, Bei; Zheng, Haiwu

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • (F, Y)-codoped TiO 2 nanoparticles were prepared by a simple sol–gel method. • The highest photocatalytic activity (15 times of that over the pure TiO 2 ) was exhibited in the codoped TiO 2 with 0.05% Y doping level. • The Y doping induced oxygen vancancies played a duel role on the photocatalyic activity of the codoped TiO 2 . • The photocatalytic reactive oxygen species are critical to the photocatalytic degradation processes. - Abstract: Fluorine and yttrium codoped TiO 2 nanoparticles were prepared using a simple sol–gel method. The products were characterized with various spectroscopic and analytical techniques to determine their structural, morphological, optical absorption and photocatalytic properties. The results reveal that neither F nor Y doping causes obvious absorption edge shift in TiO 2 . Photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra present that the PL signal is enhanced, suggesting a decrease of photo-generated charge carrier separation efficiency, after the F or Y doping. The synergistic action by the F and Y doping leads to the highest photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue solution in the 0.05% (F, Y)-codoped sample (15 times of that over the pure TiO 2 ). With the increase of Y doping level, the photocatalytic performance in the codoped samples increases firstly and then decreases. The photocatalytic activity variations after the F and Y doping were interpreted by the formation of photocatalytic reactive oxygen species induced by the dopings

  15. Electrospun polystyrene fibres on TiO2 nanostructured film to ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    Electrochemical corrosion tests showed that the corrosion rate was substantially decreased by using a protective bilayer (PS/TiO2) from 33 to 0.39 mV/y for bare SS sample and from 0.01 to 0.003 mV/y for PS/TiO2/SS sample in 1 M salt and acidic solutions, respectively. The superhydrophobic protective layer forms an ...

  16. A promising tritium breeding material: Nanostructured 2Li2TiO3-Li4SiO4 biphasic ceramic pebbles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dang, Chen; Yang, Mao; Gong, Yichao; Feng, Lan; Wang, Hailiang; Shi, Yanli; Shi, Qiwu; Qi, Jianqi; Lu, Tiecheng

    2018-03-01

    As an advanced tritium breeder material for the fusion reactor blanket of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), Li2TiO3-Li4SiO4 biphasic ceramic has attracted widely attention due to its merits. In this paper, the uniform precursor powders were prepared by hydrothermal method, and nanostructured 2Li2TiO3-Li4SiO4 biphasic ceramic pebbles were fabricated by an indirect wet method at the first time. In addition, the composition dependence (x/y) of their microstructure characteristics and mechanical properties were investigated. The results indicated that the crush load of biphasic ceramic pebbles was better than that of single phase ceramic pebbles under identical conditions. The 2Li2TiO3-Li4SiO4 ceramic pebbles have good morphology, small grain size (90 nm), satisfactory crush load (37.8 N) and relative density (81.8 %T.D.), which could be a promising breeding material in the future fusion reactor.

  17. Size-dependent photodegradation of CdS particles deposited onto TiO2 mesoporous films by SILAR method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ahmed, Rasin; Will, Geoffrey; Bell, John; Wang Hongxia

    2012-01-01

    The particle size, size distribution and photostability of CdS nanoparticles incorporated onto mesoporous TiO 2 films by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, UV–Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). High-resolution TEM indicated that the synthesized CdS particles were hexagonal phase and the particle sizes were less than 5 nm for up to nine SILAR deposition cycles. Quantum size effect was found with the CdS-sensitized TiO 2 films prepared with up to nine SILAR cycles. The band gap of CdS nanoparticles decreased from 2.65 to 2.37 eV with the increase of the SILAR cycles from 1 to 11. The investigation of the stability of the CdS/TiO 2 films in air under illumination (440.6 μW/cm 2 ) showed that the photodegradation rate was up to 85 % per day for the sample prepared with three SILAR cycles. XPS analysis indicated that the photodegradation was due to the oxidation of CdS, leading to the transformation from sulphide to sulphate (CdSO 4 ). Furthermore, the degradation rate was strongly dependent upon the particle size of CdS. Smaller particles showed faster degradation rate. The size-dependent photo-induced oxidization was rationalized with the variation of size-dependent distribution of surface atoms of CdS particles. Molecular dynamics-based theoretical calculation has indicated that the surface sulphide anion of a large CdS particle such as CdS made with 11 cycles (CdS × 11, average particle size = 5.6 nm) accounts for 9.6 % of the material whereas this value is increased to 19.2 % for (CdS × 3)-based smaller particles (average particle size = 2.7 nm). The photostability of CdS nanoparticles was significantly enhanced when coated with ZnS particles deposited with four SILAR cycles. The growth mechanism of ZnS upon CdS nanoparticles was discussed.

  18. Foaming of aluminium with and without TiO2 addition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tan, S.; Ozturuk, T.

    2003-01-01

    A study was carried out into the formation of aluminium foams via powder processing route. Aluminum powder compacts both in pure form and AI-5%TiO 2 were foamed at temperatures ranging from 675 to 800 o C. Foaming agent TiH 2 was mixed with powders typically with 0.6 wt % in two different sizes. Experiments have shown that foaming in excess of 120 % is possible both with pure AI as well as in AI-TiO 2 . It is found that with coarse TiH 2 , with and without TiO 2 , Al expands more, implying that there may be a certain size below which particles may not participate in the foaming process. It is further found that with the use of high temperature there are internal reactions between foaming agent and aluminium as well as between TiO 2 and AI. This is with the result that with TiO 2 added system foaming becomes more temperature dependant than the pure AI. (Original)

  19. Synthesis of nanometer-sized fayalite and magnesium-iron(II) mixture olivines

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Qafoku, Odeta; Ilton, Eugene S.; Bowden, Mark E.; Kovarik, Libor; Zhang, Xin; Kukkadapu, Ravi K.; Engelhard, Mark H.; Thompson, Christopher J.; Schaef, Herbert T.; McGrail, Bernard Peter; Rosso, Kevin M.; Loring, John S.

    2018-04-01

    Olivines are divalent orthosilicates with important geologic, biological, and industrial significance and are typically comprised of mixtures of Mg2+ and Fe2+ ranging from forsterite (Mg2SiO4) to fayalite (Fe2SiO4). Investigating the role of Fe(II) in olivine reactivity requires the ability to synthesize olivines that are nanometer-sized, have different percentages of Mg2+ and Fe2+, and have good bulk and surface purity. This article demonstrates a new method for synthesizing nanosized fayalite and Mg-Fe mixture olivines. First, carbonaceous precursors are generated from sucrose, PVA, colloidal silica, Mg2+, and Fe3+. Second, these precursors are calcined in air to burn carbon and create mixtures of Fe(III)-oxides, forsterite, and SiO2. Finally, calcination in reducing CO-CO2 gas buffer leads to Fe(II)-rich olivines. XRD, Mössbauer, and IR analyses verify good bulk purity and composition. XPS indicates that surface iron is in its reduced Fe(II) form, and surface Si is consistent with olivine. SEM shows particle sizes predominately between 50 and 450 nm, and BET surface areas are 2.8-4.2 m2/g. STEM HAADF analysis demonstrates even distributions of Mg and Fe among the available M1 and M2 sites of the olivine crystals. These nanosized Fe(II)-rich olivines are suitable for laboratory studies with in situ probes that require mineral samples with high reactivity at short timescales.

  20. Magnetic Properties of Nanometer-sized Crystalline and Amorphous Particles

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Mørup, Steen; Bødker, Franz; Hansen, Mikkel Fougt

    1997-01-01

    Amorphous transition metal-metalloid alloy particles can be prepared by chemical preparation techniques. We discuss the preparation of transition metal-boron and iron-carbon particles and their magnetic properties. Nanometer-sized particles of both crystalline and amorphous magnetic materials...... are superparamagnetic at finite temperatures. The temperature dependence of the superparamagnetic relaxation time and the influence of inter-particle interactions is discussed. Finally, some examples of studies of surface magnetization of alpha-Fe particles are presented....

  1. Low temperature fabrication of perovskite solar cells with TiO2 nanoparticle layers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kanayama, Masato; Oku, Takeo; Suzuki, Atsushi; Yamada, Masahiro; Sakamoto, Hiroki; Minami, Satoshi; Kohno, Kazufumi

    2016-01-01

    TiO 2 /CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 -based photovoltaic devices were fabricated by a spin-coating method using a mixture solution. TiO 2 require high-temperature processing to achieve suitably high carrier mobility. TiO 2 electron transport layers and TiO 2 scaffold layers for the perovskite were fabricated from TiO 2 nanoparticles with different grain sizes. The photovoltaic properties and microstructures of solar cells were characterized. Nanoparticle sizes of these TiO 2 were 23 nm and 3 nm and the performance of solar cells was improved by combination of two TiO 2 nanoparticles

  2. Microstructure and tensile properties of oxide dispersion strengthened Fe–14Cr–0.3Y2O3 and Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y2O3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Auger, M.A.; Castro, V. de; Leguey, T.; Monge, M.A.; Muñoz, A.; Pareja, R.

    2013-01-01

    Two ODS ferritic steels with nominal compositions (wt.%): Fe–14Cr–0.3Y 2 O 3 and Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y 2 O 3 have been produced by mechanical alloying and consolidation by hot isostatic pressing. The microstructure and tensile properties of these materials after being forged and heat-treated at 1123 K have been investigated to clarify the interrelation between composition, microstructure and mechanical properties. The second-phase precipitates in these alloys have been analyzed by high-angle annular dark-field imaging in scanning TEM mode and electron diffraction. Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y 2 O 3 exhibits a duplex microstructure consisting of large recrystallized grains, as large as 1.5 μm, and unrecovered regions containing submicron equiaxed grains. In addition, three types of secondary phase particles have been found: large M 23 C 6 particles containing W and Cr, (Cr + Ti) rich spherical particles with diameters between 50 and 500 nm, and fine (Y + Ti) oxide particles with sizes below 30 nm. In contrast, Fe14CrY shows a uniform structure of equiaxed grains, with sizes in the range 0.5–3 μm, containing a fine dispersion of Y oxide particles ( 2 O 3 at temperatures up to 773 K, but the opposite appears to occur beyond this temperature

  3. Synthesis, characterization and catalytic properties of nanocrystaline Y2O3-coated TiO2 in the ethanol dehydration reaction

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fajardo, Humberto Vieira; Longo, Elson; Leite, Edson Roberto; Libanori, Rafael; Probst, Luiz Fernando Dias; Carreno, Neftali Lenin Villarreal

    2012-01-01

    In the present study, TiO 2 nano powder was partially coated with Y 2 O 3 precursors generated by a sol-gel modified route. The system of nanocoated particles formed an ultra thin structure on the TiO 2 surfaces. The modified nanoparticles were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Zeta potential and surface area through N 2 physisorption measurements. Bioethanol dehydration was used as a probe reaction to investigate the modifications on the nanoparticles surface. The process led to the obtainment of nanoparticles with important surface characteristics and catalytic behavior in the bioethanol dehydration reaction, with improved activity and particular selectivity in comparison to their non-coated analogs. The ethylene production was disfavored and selectivity toward acetaldehyde, hydrogen and ethane increased over modified nanoparticles. (author)

  4. Influence of domain on grain size effects of the dielectric properties of BaTiO{sub 3} nanoceramics and nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fang Chao, E-mail: yyohjh@sina.com [Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023 (China); Chen Liangyan [Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023 (China); Zhou Dongxiang [Department of Electronic Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City Hubei Province 430074 (China)

    2013-01-15

    The dielectric property of BaTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles and nanoceramics has been studied on the basis of Ginsburg-Landau-Devonshire thermodynamic theory. In this paper, considering nanodomains, Landau coefficients have been written as a function of grain size, and the dielectric constant of the material has been calculated at a variety of temperatures and grain size. The results indicate that with decreasing grain size, the dielectric peak decreases. The two lower dielectric peaks of the orthorhombic-rhombohedral phase and tetragonal-orthorhombic phase move to higher temperature, while cubic-tetragonal phase dielectric peak moves to lower temperature. The dielectric constant of BaTiO{sub 3} ceramics decreases with decreasing grain size. The dielectric constant peak at room temperature is at the grain size which is larger than the critical grain size 17-30 nm. The calculated result is consistent with the experimental data.

  5. Photocatalytic properties of porous TiO2/Ag thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chang, C.-C.; Chen, J.-Y.; Hsu, T.-L.; Lin, C.-K.; Chan, C.-C.

    2008-01-01

    In this study, nanocrystalline TiO 2 /Ag composite thin films were prepared by a sol-gel spin-coating technique. By introducing polystyrene (PS) spheres into the precursor solution, porous TiO 2 /Ag thin films were prepared after calcination at a temperature of 500 deg. C for 4 h. Three different sizes (50, 200, and 400 nm) of PS spheres were used to prepare porous TiO 2 films. The as-prepared TiO 2 and TiO 2 /Ag thin films were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and by scanning electron microscopy to reveal structural and morphological differences. In addition, the photocatalytic properties of these films were investigated by degrading methylene blue under UV irradiation. When PS spheres of different sizes were introduced after calcination, the as-prepared TiO 2 films exhibited different porous structures. XRD results showed that all TiO 2 /Ag films exhibited a major anatase phase. The photodegradation of porous TiO 2 thin films prepared with 200 nm PS spheres and doped with 1 mol% Ag exhibited the best photocatalytic efficiency where ∼ 100% methylene blue was decomposed within 8 h under UV exposure

  6. Enhanced pulsed magneto-motive ultrasound imaging using superparamagnetic nanoclusters

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mehrmohammadi, M; Qu, M; Emelianov, S Y; Yoon, K Y; Johnston, K P

    2011-01-01

    Recently, pulsed magneto-motive ultrasound (pMMUS) imaging augmented with ultra-small magnetic nanoparticles has been introduced as a tool capable of imaging events at molecular and cellular levels. The sensitivity of a pMMUS system depends on several parameters, including the size, geometry and magnetic properties of the nanoparticles. Under the same magnetic field, larger magnetic nanostructures experience a stronger magnetic force and produce larger displacement, thus improving the sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of pMMUS imaging. Unfortunately, large magnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles are typically ferromagnetic and thus are very difficult to stabilize against colloidal aggregation. In the current study we demonstrate improvement of pMMUS image quality by using large size superparamagnetic nanoclusters characterized by strong magnetization per particle. Water-soluble magnetic nanoclusters of two sizes (15 and 55 nm average size) were synthesized from 3 nm iron precursors in the presence of citrate capping ligand. The size distribution of synthesized nanoclusters and individual nanoparticles was characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Tissue mimicking phantoms containing single nanoparticles and two sizes of nanoclusters were imaged using a custom-built pMMUS imaging system. While the magnetic properties of citrate-coated nanoclusters are identical to those of superparamagnetic nanoparticles, the magneto-motive signal detected from nanoclusters is larger, i.e. the same magnetic field produced larger magnetically induced displacement. Therefore, our study demonstrates that clusters of superparamagnetic nanoparticles result in pMMUS images with higher contrast and SNR.

  7. A Nanometer Aerosol Size Analyzer (nASA) for Rapid Measurement of High-concentration Size Distributions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Han, H.-S.; Chen, D.-R.; Pui, David Y.H.; Anderson, Bruce E.

    2000-01-01

    We have developed a fast-response nanometer aerosol size analyzer (nASA) that is capable of scanning 30 size channels between 3 and 100 nm in a total time of 3 s. The analyzer includes a bipolar charger (Po 210 ), an extended-length nanometer differential mobility analyzer (Nano-DMA), and an electrometer (TSI 3068). This combination of components provides particle size spectra at a scan rate of 0.1 s per channel free of uncertainties caused by response-time-induced smearing. The nASA thus offers a fast response for aerosol size distribution measurements in high-concentration conditions and also eliminates the need for applying a de-smearing algorithm to resulting data. In addition, because of its thermodynamically stable means of particle detection, the nASA is useful for applications requiring measurements over a broad range of sample pressures and temperatures. Indeed, experimental transfer functions determined for the extended-length Nano-DMA using the tandem differential mobility analyzer (TDMA) technique indicate the nASA provides good size resolution at pressures as low as 200 Torr. Also, as was demonstrated in tests to characterize the soot emissions from the J85-GE engine of a T-38 aircraft, the broad dynamic concentration range of the nASA makes it particularly suitable for studies of combustion or particle formation processes. Further details of the nASA performance as well as results from calibrations, laboratory tests and field applications are presented below

  8. Influence of Pore Size on the Optical and Electrical Properties of Screen Printed TiO2 Thin Films

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dinfa Luka Domtau

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Influence of pore size on the optical and electrical properties of TiO2 thin films was studied. TiO2 thin films with different weight percentages (wt% of carbon black were deposited by screen printing method on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO coated on glass substrate. Carbon black decomposed on annealing and artificial pores were created in the films. All the films were 3.2 µm thick as measured by a surface profiler. UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometer was used to study transmittance and reflectance spectra of the films in the photon wavelength of 300–900 nm while absorbance was studied in the range of 350–900 nm. Band gaps and refractive index of the films were studied using the spectra. Reflectance, absorbance, and refractive index were found to increase with concentrations of carbon black. There was no significant variation in band gaps of films with change in carbon black concentrations. Transmittance reduced as the concentration of carbon black in TiO2 increased (i.e., increase in pore size. Currents and voltages (I-V characteristics of the films were measured by a 4-point probe. Resistivity (ρ and conductivity (σ of the films were computed from the I-V values. It was observed that resistivity increased with carbon black concentrations while conductivity decreased as the pore size of the films increased.

  9. Epitaxial patterning of nanometer-thick Y3Fe5O12 films with low magnetic damping.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Shaozhen; Zhang, Wei; Ding, Junjia; Pearson, John E; Novosad, Valentine; Hoffmann, Axel

    2016-01-07

    Magnetic insulators such as yttrium iron garnet, Y3Fe5O12, with extremely low magnetic damping have opened the door for low power spin-orbitronics due to their low energy dissipation and efficient spin current generation and transmission. We demonstrate here reliable and efficient epitaxial growth and nanopatterning of Y3Fe5O12 thin-film based nanostructures on insulating Gd3Ga5O12 substrates. In particular, our fabrication process is compatible with conventional sputtering and lift-off, and does not require aggressive ion milling which may be detrimental to the oxide thin films. Their structural and magnetic properties indicate good qualities, in particular low magnetic damping of both films and patterned structures. The dynamic magnetic properties of the nanostructures are systematically investigated as a function of the lateral dimension. By comparing with ferromagnetic nanowire structures, a distinct edge mode in addition to the main mode is identified by both experiments and simulations, which also exhibit cross-over with the main mode upon varying the width of the wires. The non-linear evolution of dynamic modes over nanostructural dimensions highlights the important role of size confinement to their material properties in magnetic devices where Y3Fe5O12 nanostructures serve as the key functional component.

  10. Magnetic properties of Aurivillius lanthanide-bismuth (LnFeO3nBi4Ti3O12 (n = 1,2 layered titanates

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tartaj, J.

    2008-06-01

    Full Text Available Bismuth titanates of Aurivillius layer-structure (BiFeO3nBi4Ti3O12, are of great technological interest because of their applications as non-volatile ferroelectric memories and high-temperature piezoelectric materials. The synthesis and crystallographic characterization of a new family of compounds (LnFeO3nBi4Ti3O12 was recently reported, in which the layers consist of LnFeO3 perovskites with a lanthanide Ln3+ substituting diamagnetic Bi3+. We report herein the magnetic properties of bulk samples, with Ln = Nd, Eu, Gd and Tb, and n = 1 and 2. Single-layer materials are paramagnetic, similar to non-substituted bismuth titanate Bi5FeTi3O15, and show crystal field effects due to the crystallographic environment of Eu3+ and Tb3+. Several anomalies are detected in the magnetization M(T of double-layer (LnFeO32Bi4Ti3O12 compounds, related to the strong magnetism of Tb and Gd, since they weakly appear for Nd and they are absent in the VanVleck Eu3+ ion and in the parent Bi6Fe2Ti3O18 compound.Los titanatos de hierro y bismuto con estructura laminar tipo Aurivillius, (BiFeO3nBi4Ti3O12, tienen un gran interés tecnológico debido a sus aplicaciones como memorias ferroeléctricas no volátiles y como piezoeléctrico cerámico de alta temperatura. La síntesis y la caracterización cristalina de una nueva familia de compuestos (LnFeO3nBi4Ti3O12 han sido recientemente reportadas, en la que el catión diamagnético Bi3+ ha sido sustituido por los paramagnéticos Ln3+ en los bloques de perovskita. Se estudian las propiedades magnéticas de muestras cerámicas en volumen con Ln = Nd, Eu, Gd y Tb, y n = 1 y 2. Los materiales con n=1 son paramagnéticos y similares al no sustituido Bi5FeTi3O15, y muestran efectos de campo cristalino debido al entorno cristalino de Eu3+ y Tb3+. Se han detectado algunas anomalías en la magnetización M(T de los compuestos n=2 (LnFeO32Bi4Ti3O12 que están relacionadas con el fuerte magnetismo de Tb y Gd, que aparecen d

  11. Effect of TiO{sub 2} nanoporous size on cell viability

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rodrigues, Elisa Marchezini; Weitzel, Ana Paula dos Reis; Rosario, Camila Jaques; Duarte, Larissa Mara Batista; Martins, Maximiliano Delany, E-mail: elisamarch@gmail.com [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

    2016-07-01

    Full text: Titanium play an important role in the manufacturing of dental implants. The oxide layer naturally formed on the surface of a titanium device provides biocompatible characteristics, which significantly supports the osseointegration process. It has been supported that a nanostructured TiO{sub 2} surface affects positively the adhesion and proliferation of osteoblasts [1]. A widely technique used for obtaining nanoporous titania is anodizing (or anodic oxidation), which is a non-spontaneous reaction induced by a source of electric current, typically using a solution containing HF [1]. TiO{sub 2} pore diameter can be well controlled in a broad range by adjusting the potentiostatic voltage. J. Park et al. have investigated the development of mesenchymal stem cells on a TiO{sub 2} nanoporous surface and reported a direct relation between the cellular responses with the pore diameter, in the range of 15 - 100 nm [2]. The objective of this work was to investigate deeply the influence of TiO{sub 2} pore diameter in cell viability. Titanium surfaces were anodized by using an electrochemical cell under constant agitation, controlled temperature, and different applied voltages in order to produce different pore diameter, in the nanosize range 15-100 nm. Then, cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion and viability were investigated in vitro [3]. Surface morphology and chemical composition of the surface treated Ti samples were investigated by SEM, EDS and XPS. The results confirmed the production of a uniform layer of nanoporous TiO{sub 2} with different average porous diameter. The details of sample preparation and the results of cell response tests are going to be presented. [1] S. Minagar et al., Acta Biomat. 8 (2012) 2875; M. Kulkarni et al., Nanotechnology 26 (2015) 062002. [2] J. Park et al., Nano Letters 7 (2007) 1686. [3] G. G. Genchi et al., RSC Adv. 6 (2016) 18502. (author)

  12. Synthesis of Nano-Ilmenite (FeTiO3) doped TiO2/Ti Electrode for Photoelectrocatalytic System

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hikmawati; Watoni, A. H.; Wibowo, D.; Maulidiyah; Nurdin, M.

    2017-11-01

    Ilmenite (FeTiO3) doped on Ti and TiO2/Ti electrodes were successfully prepared by using the sol-gel method. The structure, morphology, and optical properties of FeTiO3 are characterized by XRD, UV-Vis DRS, and SEM. The FeTiO3 and TiO2 greatly affect the photoelectrocatalysis performance characterized by Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV) and Cyclic Voltammetry (CV). The characterization result shows a band gap of FeTiO3 is 2.94 eV. XRD data showed that FeTiO3 formed at 2θ were 35.1° (110), 49.9° (024), and 61.2° (214). The morphology of FeTiO3/Ti and FeTiO3.TiO2/Ti using SEM shows that the formation of FeTiO3 thin layer signifies the Liquid Phase Deposition method effectively in the coating process. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) test showed that FeTiO3.TiO2/Ti electrode was highly oxidation responsive under visible light compared to the FeTiO3/Ti electrodes i.e. 7.87×10-4 A and 9.87×10-5 A. Degradation test of FeTiO3/Ti and FeTiO3.TiO2/Ti electrodes on titan yellow showed that the percentages of degradation with photoelectrocatalysis at 0.5 mg/L were 41% and 43%, respectively.

  13. Preparation and solar-light photocatalytic activity of TiO2 composites: TiO2/kaolin, TiO2/diatomite, and TiO2/zeolite

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Y.; Li, S. G.; Wang, J.; Li, Y.; Ma, C. H.; Zhang, L.

    2014-12-01

    Three TiO2 loaded composites, TiO2/kaolin, TiO2/diatomite, and TiO2/zeolite, were prepared in order to improve the solar-light photocatalytic activity of TiO2. The results showed that the photocatalytic activity could obviously be enhanced by loading appropriate amount of inorganic mineral materials. Meanwhile, TiO2 content, heat-treatment temperature and heat-treatment time on the photocatalytic activity were reviewed. Otherwise, the effect of solar light irradiation time and dye concentration on the photocatalytic degradation of Acid Red B was investigated. Furthermore, the degradation mechanism and adsorption process were also discussed.

  14. Photocatalytic H 2 production from water splitting under visible light irradiation using Eosin Y-sensitized mesoporous-assembled Pt/TiO 2 nanocrystal photocatalyst

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sreethawong, Thammanoon; Junbua, Chompoonuch; Chavadej, Sumaeth

    Sensitized photocatalytic production of hydrogen from water splitting is investigated under visible light irradiation over mesoporous-assembled titanium dioxide (TiO 2) nanocrystal photocatalysts, without and with Pt loading. The photocatalysts are synthesized by a sol-gel process with the aid of a structure-directing surfactant and are characterized by N 2 adsorption-desorption analysis, X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. The dependence of hydrogen production on the type of TiO 2 photocatalyst (synthesized mesoporous-assembled and commercial non-mesoporous-assembled TiO 2 without and with Pt loading), the calcination temperature of the synthesized photocatalyst, the sensitizer (Eosin Y) concentration, the electron donor (diethanolamine) concentration, the photocatalyst dosage and the initial solution pH is systematically studied. The results show that in the presence of the Eosin Y sensitizer, the Pt-loaded mesoporous-assembled TiO 2 synthesized by a single-step sol-gel process and calcined at 500 °C exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production from a 30 vol.% diethanolamine aqueous solution with dissolved 2 mM Eosin Y. Moreover, the optimum photocatalyst dosage and initial solution pH for the maximum photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production are 3.33 g dm -3 and 11.5, respectively.

  15. Hot corrosion performance of LVOF sprayed Al2O3–40% TiO2 ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    ficients of thermal expansions of the two. ... size 40 mesh just prior to deposition of the coating. Al2O3–. 40% TiO2 ... the laboratory Kanthal wire tube furnace, which was cali- ... formation of TiO2, Al2O3 and Al2Ti7O15 phases in the coat- ing.

  16. A thick hierarchical rutile TiO2 nanomaterial with multilayered structure

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhu, Shengli; Xie, Guoqiang; Yang, Xianjin; Cui, Zhenduo

    2013-01-01

    Highlights: ► We synthesized a new rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial with a hierarchical nanostructure. ► The nano architecture structure consist of nanorods and nanoflower arrays. ► The rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial is thick in size (several 10 μm). ► The TiO 2 nanomaterials present a multilayer structure. - Abstract: In the present paper, we synthesized a new type of rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial with a hierarchical nanostructure using a novel method, which combined dealloying process with chemical synthesis. The structure characters were examined using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial is thick in size (several 10 μm). The hierarchical structure of the rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial consists of large quantities nanorods and nanoflower arrays. The nanoflowers consist of serveral nanopetals with diameter of 100–200 nm. The cross section of TiO 2 nanomaterials presents a multilayer structure with the layer thickness of about 3–5 μm. The rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial has high specific surface area. The formation mechanism of the rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial was discussed according to the experimental results. The rutile TiO 2 nanomaterial has potential applications in catalysis, photocatalysis and solar cells

  17. Enhanced energy storage and pyroelectric properties of highly (100)-oriented (Pb1-x-yLaxCay)Ti1-x/4O3 thin films derived at low temperature

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhu, Hanfei; Ma, Hongfang; Zhao, Yuyao

    2018-05-01

    Highly (100)-oriented (Pb1-x-yLaxCay)Ti1-x/4O3 (x = 0.15, y = 0.05; x = 0.1, y = 0.1; x = 0.05, y = 0.15) thin films were deposited on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates at a low temperature of 450 °C via a sol-gel route. It was found that all the (Pb1-x-yLaxCay)Ti1-x/4O3 thin films could be completely crystallized and the content of La/Ca showed a significant effect on the electrical properties of films. Among the three films, the (Pb1-x-yLaxCay)Ti1-x/4O3 (x = 0.1, y = 0.1) thin film exhibited the enhanced overall electrical properties, such as a low dielectric loss (tan ⁡ δ energy density (Wre ∼ 15 J/cm3), as well as a large pyroelectric coefficient (p ∼ 190 μC/m2K) and figure of merit (Fd‧∼ 77 μC /m2K). The findings suggest that the fabricated thin films with a good (100) orientation can be an attractive candidate for applications in Si-based energy storage and pyroelectric devices.

  18. Stability of Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} and Zn-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite coatings in near-neutral sulphate solutions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gomes, A., E-mail: aboavida@fc.ul.pt; Almeida, I.; Frade, T. [CCMM, Departamento Quimica e Bioquimica da Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade de Lisboa (Portugal); Tavares, A. C. [Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Energie Materiaux et Telecommunications (INRS-EMT) (Canada)

    2012-02-15

    Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} and Zn-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites were prepared by galvanostatic cathodic square wave deposition. X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy revealed that the occlusion of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (spherical shaped with diameter between 19.5 and 24.2 nm) promotes the formation of the {gamma}-Ni{sub 5}Zn{sub 21} phase, changes the preferred crystallographic orientation of Zn from (101) and (102) planes to (002), and decreases the particle size of the metallic matrices. The stability of the nanocomposites immersed in near-neutral 0.05 mold m{sup -3} Na{sub 2}SO{sub 4} solution (pH 6.2) was investigated over 24 h. The initial open circuit potential for the Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} and Zn-TiO{sub 2} coatings were -1.32 and -1.51 V (vs. Hg/Hg{sub 2}SO{sub 4}), respectively, and changed to -1.10 and -1.49 V (vs. Hg/Hg{sub 2}SO{sub 4}) after 24 h of immersion. Data extracted from the steady state polarization curves demonstrated that the metal-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites have, with respect to the metal coatings, a higher corrosion potential in the case of the Zn-Ni alloy composite; a lower corrosion potential in the case of Zn-based nanocomposite albeit the predominant (002) crystallographic orientation; and a lower initial corrosion resistance due to the smaller grain size and higher porosity in the Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} and Zn-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites. Morphological and chemical analyses showed that a thicker passive layer is formed on the surface of the Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} and Zn-TiO{sub 2} deposits. After 24 h of immersion in the sulphate solution, the Zn-Ni-TiO{sub 2} coating has the highest corrosion stability due to the double-protective action created by the deposit's surface enrichment in Ni plus the higher amount of corrosion products.

  19. Study of the visible light activity of Pt and Au-TiO2 photocatalysts in organic pollutants degradation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jairo Antonio Cubillos-Lobo

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Los fotocatalizadores Pt-TiO2 y Au-TiO2 se prepararon por fotodeposición del metal noble sobre el TiO2 sulfatado. Se encontró que las propiedades ópticas, el estado de oxidación y el tamaño de partícula de las especies metálicas (Pt o Au juegan un papel fundamental en la actividad fotocatalítica del TiO2 bajo luz visible. La actividad fotocatalítica del TiO2 en la degradación de fenol y naranja de metilo aumentó significativamente a través de los tratamientos de sulfatación y metalización de este óxido. La más alta velocidad de degradación bajo luz UV-Visible y visible, se alcanzó usando el fotocatalizador Pt-S-TiO2; esto se debe principalmente a la modificación de las propiedades ópticas del TiO2 inducidas por la platinización, también a la buena distribución y al pequeño tamaño de las partículas de Pt. Se encontró, además, que este catalizador presenta una buena estabilidad después de dos ciclos de reacción en la degradación de fenol bajo luz UV-Visible. El fotocatalizador Pt-S-TiO2 fue activo también bajo luz solar directa y bajo las condiciones medioambientales de la ciudad de Tunja (Boyacá, Colombia.

  20. Experimental measurements of U60 nanocluster stability in aqueous solution

    Science.gov (United States)

    Flynn, Shannon L.; Szymanowski, Jennifer E. S.; Gao, Yunyi; Liu, Tianbo; Burns, Peter C.; Fein, Jeremy B.

    2015-05-01

    In this study, the aqueous behavior of isolated U60 nanoclusters (K16Li25[UO2(O2)OH]60)-19 was studied under several pH conditions and nanocluster concentrations to determine if the nanoclusters exhibit solid phase buffering behavior or if they exhibit behavior more like aqueous complexes. U60 is a cage cluster consisting of 60 (UO2)(O2)2(OH)2 uranyl polyhedral which share OH and O2 groups with their neighboring uranyl polyhedral, resulting in negatively charged cage clusters whose charge is at least partially offset by K+ and Li+ in the aqueous phase. Batch experiments to monitor nanocluster stability were conducted for 16 days at pH 7.5, 8.0 and 8.5 at nanocluster suspension concentrations of 1.4, 2.8 and 6.0 g/L. The aqueous concentrations of U, Li, and K, determined after 10 kDa molecular weight filtration, achieved steady-state with the nanoclusters within 24 h. The steady-state aqueous U, Li, and K concentrations were independent of solution pH, however they increased with increasing nanocluster concentration, indicating that the nanoclusters do not buffer the aqueous activities as a bulk solid phase would, but exhibit behavior that is more characteristic of dissolved aqueous complexes. The ion activity product (I.A.P.) value was calculated using two approaches: (1) treating the nanoclusters as a solid phase with an activity of one, and (2) treating the nanoclusters as aqueous complexes with a non-unit activity equal to their concentration in solution. The I.A.P. values that were calculated with non-unit activity for the nanoclusters exhibited significantly less variation as a function of nanocluster concentration compared to the I.A.P. values calculated with a nanocluster activity of one. The results yield a calculated log dissociation constant for the U60 nanoclusters of 9.2 + 0.2/-0.3 (1σ). Our findings provide a better understanding of the thermodynamic stability and behavior of U60 nanoclusters in aqueous systems, and can be used to estimate the

  1. Synthesis, characterization and catalytic properties of nanocrystaline Y2O3-coated TiO2 in the ethanol dehydration reaction

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Humberto Vieira Fajardo

    2012-04-01

    Full Text Available In the present study, TiO2 nanopowder was partially coated with Y2O3 precursors generated by a sol-gel modified route. The system of nanocoated particles formed an ultra thin structure on the TiO2 surfaces. The modified nanoparticles were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM, X-ray diffraction (XRD analysis, Zeta potential and surface area through N2 fisisorption measurements. Bioethanol dehydration was used as a probe reaction to investigate the modifications on the nanoparticles surface. The process led to the obtainment of nanoparticles with important surface characteristics and catalytic behavior in the bioethanol dehydration reaction, with improved activity and particular selectivity in comparison to their non-coated analogs. The ethylene production was disfavored and selectivity toward acetaldehyde, hydrogen and ethane increased over modified nanoparticles.

  2. Mechanism of the superior mechanical strength of nanometer-sized metal single crystals revealed

    KAUST Repository

    Afify, N. D.; Salem, H. G.; Yavari, A.; El Sayed, Tamer S.

    2013-01-01

    Clear understanding of the superior mechanical strength of nanometer-sized metal single crystals is required to derive advanced mechanical components retaining such superiority. Although high quality studies have been reported on nano

  3. Determination of mercury and selenium in herbal medicines and hair by using a nanometer TiO{sub 2}-coated quartz tube atomizer and hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Shun-Xing, E-mail: lishunxing@fjzs.edu.cn [Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Zhangzhou Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000 (China); Fujian Province University Key Laboratory of Analytical Science (Zhangzhou Normal University), Zhangzhou 363000 (China); Zheng, Feng-Ying [Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Zhangzhou Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000 (China); Fujian Province University Key Laboratory of Analytical Science (Zhangzhou Normal University), Zhangzhou 363000 (China); Cai, Shu-Jie; Cai, Tian-Shou [Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Zhangzhou Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000 (China)

    2011-05-15

    The nanometer TiO{sub 2} particle was coated onto the inner wall of a T-shaped quartz tube atomizer (QTA) and then was used as a new atomizer (NT-QTA) for the determination of Hg and Se by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HGAAS). After coating 67.4 mg TiO{sub 2} on a quartz tube, the analytical performance of NT-QTA-HGAAS was compared to conventional QTA-HGAAS and it was improved as follows: (a) the linear range of the calibration curves was expanded from 10.0-80.0 ng mL{sup -1} to 5.0-150.0 ng mL{sup -1} for Hg, and from 10.0-70.0 ng mL{sup -1} to 5.0-100.0 ng mL{sup -1} for Se; (b) the characteristic concentration of was decreased from 2.8 ng mL{sup -1}/1% to 1.1 ng mL{sup -1}/1% for Hg and from 1.2 ng mL{sup -1}/1% to 0.8 ng mL{sup -1}/1% for Se; and (c) the interference from the coexistence of As on the determination of Hg and Se could be eliminated. The achieved technique was applied for the determination of Hg and Se in herbal medicines and hair.

  4. Size-dependent photodegradation of CdS particles deposited onto TiO{sub 2} mesoporous films by SILAR method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ahmed, Rasin; Will, Geoffrey; Bell, John; Wang Hongxia, E-mail: hx.wang@qut.edu.au [Queensland University of Technology, School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering (Australia)

    2012-09-15

    The particle size, size distribution and photostability of CdS nanoparticles incorporated onto mesoporous TiO{sub 2} films by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). High-resolution TEM indicated that the synthesized CdS particles were hexagonal phase and the particle sizes were less than 5 nm for up to nine SILAR deposition cycles. Quantum size effect was found with the CdS-sensitized TiO{sub 2} films prepared with up to nine SILAR cycles. The band gap of CdS nanoparticles decreased from 2.65 to 2.37 eV with the increase of the SILAR cycles from 1 to 11. The investigation of the stability of the CdS/TiO{sub 2} films in air under illumination (440.6 {mu}W/cm{sup 2}) showed that the photodegradation rate was up to 85 % per day for the sample prepared with three SILAR cycles. XPS analysis indicated that the photodegradation was due to the oxidation of CdS, leading to the transformation from sulphide to sulphate (CdSO{sub 4}). Furthermore, the degradation rate was strongly dependent upon the particle size of CdS. Smaller particles showed faster degradation rate. The size-dependent photo-induced oxidization was rationalized with the variation of size-dependent distribution of surface atoms of CdS particles. Molecular dynamics-based theoretical calculation has indicated that the surface sulphide anion of a large CdS particle such as CdS made with 11 cycles (CdS Multiplication-Sign 11, average particle size = 5.6 nm) accounts for 9.6 % of the material whereas this value is increased to 19.2 % for (CdS Multiplication-Sign 3)-based smaller particles (average particle size = 2.7 nm). The photostability of CdS nanoparticles was significantly enhanced when coated with ZnS particles deposited with four SILAR cycles. The growth mechanism of ZnS upon CdS nanoparticles was discussed.

  5. Glassy and Metastable Crystalline BaTi2O5 by Containerless Processing

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yoda, Shinichi; Kentei Yu, Yu; Kumar, Vijaya; Kameko, Masashi

    metastable a-and b-BaTi2 O5 are constructed with non-centrosymmetric geometry TiO5 polyhedra, which provides higher potential for yielding high dielectric constants, pyroelectric and nonlinear op-tical properties than that of normal 4-or 6-coordinate Ti-O polyhedra. In addition, all lanthanide elements can be doped into the unusual glassy BaTi2 O5 structure to open up new possibilities for creating new bulk glasses, metastable phases and nano-crystalline ceramics with peculiar electronic and optical properties, such as giant permittivity and strong upconversion luminescence. References [1] Y. Akishige, K. Fukano, and H. Shigematsu, Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. p2, 42, L946 (2003). [2] J. Yu, Y. Arai, T. Masaki, T. Ishikawa, S. Yoda, S. Kohara, H. Taniguchi, M. Itoh, and Y. Kuroiwa, Chem. Matter. 18 p.2169 (2006) [3] J. Yu, S. Kohara, S. Nozawa, K. Itoh, S. Miyoshi, Y. Arai, A. Masuno, H. Taniguchi, M. Itoh, M. Takata, T. Fukunaga, S. Koshihara, Y. Kuroiwa, and S. Yoda, Chem. Matter. 21, p259 (2009).

  6. Microstructure development of in situ porous TiO/Cu composites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qin, Q.D.; Huang, B.W.; Li, W.; Shao, F.

    2016-01-01

    An in situ porous TiO/Cu composite is successfully prepared using powder metallurgy by the reaction of Ti_2CO and Cu powder. Ti_2CO powder is produced by the carbothermic reduction of titanium dioxide (TiO_2) at 1000 °C. Morphological examination of the composite shows that the porosity of composites lies in the range between 10.2% and 35.2%. As the volume fraction of TiO increases, the size of TiO becomes more fine. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fracture morphology indicates that TiO particles and the Cu matrix are connected by a Cu–Ti phase. - Highlights: • An porous TiO/Cu composite is successfully prepared by powder metallurgy technology. • The porosity of composites lies in the range between 10.2% and 35.2%. • The TiO particles and the Cu matrix are connected by a Cu-Ti phase.

  7. TiO2 and SiC nanostructured films, organized CNT structures

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    sized nanostructured TiO2 films through hydrolysis of titanium tetra-isopropoxide. (TTIP) [9 ... structured TiO2 as a photocatalyst is as follows [15]:. TiO2(ns) ... The deposited films were easily detached from the silica tube and subjected to. SEM.

  8. 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.

  9. Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} modified TiO{sub 2} nanosheets enhanced the photocatalytic removal of 4-chlorophenol and Cr (VI) in sun light

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Xiaona; Wu, Pei [Department of Physics and Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro-and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Liu, Min [State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Research Institute, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310007 (China); Lu, Dingze [Department of Physics and Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro-and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Ming, Junlan [State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Research Institute, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310007 (China); Li, Chunhe; Ding, Junqian; Yan, Qiuyang [Department of Physics and Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro-and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Fang, Pengfei, E-mail: fangpf@whu.edu.cn [Department of Physics and Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro-and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China)

    2017-07-15

    Highlights: • Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}@TNSswithsynergisticphotocatalyticactivitywerepreparedbyone-potmethod. • Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} loading resulted in the structure evolution of TNSs and content increment of Ti{sup 3+} ions. • Modification on TNSs led to an obvious red shift of the optical absorption edge. • Appropriate amount of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} can effectively improve the separation efficiency of the h{sup +}/e{sup −} pairs. - Abstract: Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} modified TiO{sub 2} nanosheets (Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}@TNSs), capable of exhibiting sun light, were synthesized through one pot/hydrothermal method using Y (NO{sub 3}){sub 3} as precursor. Multiple techniques were applied to investigate the structures, morphologies, optical and electronic properties and photocatalytic performance of the as-prepared samples. The Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}@TNSs, with thickness of approximately 3–4 nm, large surface area of 240–350 m{sup 2}/g, were full of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles highly dispersed on the surface. The introduction of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} influenced the crystallinity and the structure evolution of TNSs, besides, improved the light absorption ability. The surface photo-current and fluorescence spectral studies revealed that the photo-generated charge carrier separation efficiency could be improved by an appropriate modification. The degradation activity of this sun-light-induced photocatalytic has enhanced apparently on 4-Chlorophenol and K{sub 2}Cr{sub 2}O{sub 7} solution, the degradation efficiency of 4-Chlorophenol reached 5.69 times than that of P25, and the maximum TOC removal obtained after 120 min was 67.6%, indicating that most organic compounds were released from the solution. The enhancement in the photocatalytic activity was attributed to the synergetic effect of the Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and TNSs, which led to a fast separation and slow recombination of photo-induced electron-hole pairs. Consequently, the high efficiency in the experiments showed a promising application of

  10. Three-dimensional self-branching anatase TiO{sub 2} nanorods with the improved carrier collection for SrTiO{sub 3}-based perovskite solar cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hu, Yajing; Wang, Chen; Tang, Ying; Huang, Lu [Department of Electronic Information Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Fu, Jianxun [Key Laboratory of Modern Metallurgy and Materials Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200072 (China); Shi, Weimin; Wang, Linjun [Department of Electronic Information Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Yang, Weiguang, E-mail: wgyang@shu.edu.cn [Department of Electronic Information Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China)

    2016-09-15

    The organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells based on ternary oxide SrTiO{sub 3} shows a higher Voc, attributed to its slightly higher conduction band edge and better morphology of absorber material. However, its less efficient carrier collection and limited overall interfacial areas between the absorber material and the electron-transport layer (ETL), dramatically reducing the Jsc. Here, By adjusting the concentrations of the Ti(OBu){sub 4}, we successfully prepared the three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO{sub 2} nanorod/SrTiO{sub 3} nanocomposites, and slightly tuned the particle size of SrTiO{sub 3}. With the incorporation of the three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO{sub 2} nanorod, the Jsc of the device based on SrTiO{sub 3} was highly boosted. The best performing solar cell we obtained exhibited a PCE of 9.99% with a Jsc of 19.48 mA/cm{sup 2}. The excellent performance could be ascribed to the improvement of charge carrier collection of SrTiO{sub 3}, better surface coverage and crystallinity of CH{sub 3}NH{sub 3}PbI{sub 3}, and enhanced light scattering ability caused by 3D self-branching anatase TiO{sub 2} nanorods. - Highlights: • The three-dimensional (3D) self-branching anatase TiO{sub 2} nanorod/SrTiO{sub 3} nanocomposites were prepared. • The particle sizes of SrTiO{sub 3} can be slightly tuned. • The best performing solar cell we obtained exhibited a PCE of 9.99% with the Jsc of 19.48 mA/cm{sup 2}.

  11. Synthesis of Si, N co-Doped Nano-Sized TiO2 with High Thermal Stability and Photocatalytic Activity by Mechanochemical Method

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Peisan Wang

    2018-05-01

    Full Text Available Τhe photocatalytic activity in the range of visible light wavelengths and the thermal stability of the structure were significantly enhanced in Si, N co-doped nano-sized TiO2, and synthesized through high-energy mechanical milling of TiO2 and SiO2 powders, which was followed by calcination at 600 °C in an ammonia atmosphere. High-energy mechanical milling had a pronounced effect on the mixing and the reaction between the starting powders and greatly favored the transformation of the resultant powder mixture into an amorphous phase that contained a large number of evenly-dispersed nanocrystalline TiO2 particles as anatase seeds. The experimental results suggest that the elements were homogeneously dispersed at an atomic level in this amorphous phase. After calcination, most of the amorphous phase was crystallized, which resulted in a unique nano-sized crystalline-core/disordered-shell morphology. This novel experimental process is simple, template-free, and provides features of high reproducibility in large-scale industrial production.

  12. Reduced graphene oxide enwrapped pinecone-liked Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2} composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability under visible light

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ma, Ni; Qiu, Yiwei; Zhang, Yichao; Liu, Hanyang; Yang, Yana; Wang, Jingwei; Li, Xiaoyun; Cui, Can, E-mail: cancui@zstu.edu.cn

    2015-11-05

    Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} possesses high photocatalytic activity under visible light, but its application is limited by photogenerated charges recombination, photocorrosion as well as consumption of noble Ag. It is of great interesting to develop new Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}-based photocatalysts with high charges separation efficiency, good stability and low content of Ag. In this paper, we report a novel Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/reduced graphene oxide (Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO) photocatalyst. It exhibits advantages on both the microstructure and the charges separation. The microstructure shows that TiO{sub 2} spheres of hundreds of nanometers in size are decorated with dense nano-sized Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} to form pinecone-liked particles, which are enwrapped by rGO sheets. This novel structure effectively prevents aggregation of nano-sized Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}, which not only suppresses the charges recombination in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} but also significantly reduces the content of Ag. Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO also favors separation of photogenerated charges owing to its two pathways for charges transportation, i.e., the electrons in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} can be transferred to rGO, while the holes in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} can be transferred to TiO{sub 2}. The dual-pathway for charges separation as well as the pinecone-liked Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2} microstructure ultimately leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO. The photocatalytic performance varies with different contents of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} in the composites, because low content of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} induces weak light absorption while excess Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} results in serious charges recombination due to the aggregation of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} nanoparticles. In this work, Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO with weight ratio of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} against TiO{sub 2}/rGO equals to 0.6 exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. The percentage of Ag in

  13. XAFS atomistic insight of the oxygen gettering in Ti/HfO 2 based OxRRAM

    Science.gov (United States)

    Viennet, R.; Roussel, H.; Rapenne, L.; Deschanvres, J. L.; Renevier, H.; Jousseaume, V.; Jalaguier, E.; Proietti, M. G.

    2018-05-01

    Hafnia-based resistive memories technology has come to maturation and acceded to the market of nonvolatile memories. Nevertheless, the physical mechanisms involved in resistive switching are not yet fully understood and the numerous ab initio simulations studies have few many atomic-scale experimental counterparts. In this study we investigate the oxygen migration mechanism from an amorphous HfO2 layer to the Ti cap layer at a local scale before and after a thermal treatment. X-ray absorption spectroscopy at the Ti K edge and Hf LIII edge has been performed on samples as-deposited and annealed in Ar at 400 ∘C to mimic the back-end-of-line thermal budget (BEOL) of CMOS technology. The short-range Ti and Hf environments have been determined, showing that annealing promotes the migration of O from HfO2 to Ti, the amount of which is quantified. This provokes an expansion and an increase of atomic disorder in the Ti lattice. The nature of the oxygen gettering mechanism by the Ti metal is understood by comparing samples with increasing Ti-capping thickness. We show that the Ti getter effect has to be activated by thermal treatment and that the O diffusion takes place in a region of a few nanometers close to the Ti /HfO2 interface. Therefore, the thermal budget history and the Ti cap-layer thickness determine the oxygen vacancy content in the HfO2 layer, which in turn controls the electrical properties, especially the forming operation.

  14. {Fe6O2}-Based Assembly of a Tetradecanuclear Iron Nanocluster

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Svetlana G. Baca

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available The tetradecanuclear FeIII pivalate nanocluster [Fe14O10(OH4(Piv18], comprising a new type of metal oxide framework, has been solvothermally synthesized from a hexanuclear iron pivalate precursor in dichlormethane/acetonitrile solution. Magnetic measurements indicate the presence of very strong antiferromagnetic interactions in the cluster core.

  15. Systematic study of photoluminescence upon band gap excitation in perovskite-type titanates R 1/2Na1/2TiO3:Pr (R=La, Gd, Lu, and Y)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Inaguma, Yoshiyuki; Tsuchiya, Takeshi; Katsumata, Tetsuhiro

    2007-01-01

    Pr 3+ -doped perovskites R 1/2 Na 1/2 TiO 3 :Pr (R=La, Gd, Lu, and Y) were synthesized, and their structures, optical absorption and luminescent properties were investigated, and the relationship between structures and optical properties are discussed. Optical band gap of R 1/2 Na 1/2 TiO 3 increases in the order R=La, Gd, Y, and Lu, which is primarily due to a decrease in band width accompanied by a decrease in Ti-O-Ti bond angle. Intense red emission assigned to f-f transition of Pr 3+ from the excited 1 D 2 level to the ground 3 H 4 state upon the band gap photo-excitation (UV) was observed for all compounds. The wavelength of emission peaks was red-shifted in the order R=La, Gd, Y, and Lu, which originates from the increase in crystal field splitting of Pr 3+ . This is attributed to the decrease in inter-atomic distances of Pr-O together with the inter-atomic distances (R, Na)-O, i.e., increase in covalency between Pr and O. The results indicate that the luminescent properties in R 1/2 Na 1/2 TiO 3 :Pr are governed by the relative energy level between the ground and excited state of 4f 2 for Pr 3+ , and the conduction and valence band, which is primarily dependent on the structure, e.g., the tilt of TiO 6 octahedra and the Pr-Ti inter-atomic distance and the site symmetry of Pr ion. - Graphical abstract: The red intense emission assigned to f-f transition of Pr 3+ from the excited 1 D 2 level to the ground 3 H 4 state upon the band gap photo-excitation (UV) was observed upon the band gap photo-excitation in perovskites R 1/2 Na 1/2 TiO 3 :Pr(R=La, Gd, Lu, and Y). It was found that the systematic changes in their luminescent properties are strongly dependent on the structure

  16. Orientación de láminas delgadas de (Pb, CaTiO3

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mendiola, J.

    1999-06-01

    Full Text Available Calcium modified PbTiO3 thin films have been prepared on platinized Si, MgO and SrTiO3 substrates. The films were deposited from a sol-gel solution with a concentration of 0.3 M and with a 10% excess of PbO. Two deposits of this solution on the substrates were made by spin-coating, crystallizing each of them by a Rapid Thermal Processing. The resulting films present a single (Pb,CaTiO3 perovskite phase. All the films are textured, but the films deposited on MgO and SrTiO3 show a preferred orientation in the polar direction of the perovskite. As a result of this orientation, pyroelectric coefficients were measured, without any poling, for the films on MgO and SrTiO3. Pyroelectric measurements indicate the application of these films in infrarred sensors.Se han preparado láminas delgadas de PbTiO3 modificado con calcio sobre substratos de Si, MgO y SrTiO3 electrodados con Pt. Las películas se depositaron a partir de una solución sintetizada por sol-gel, con concentración 0.3 M y con un 10 % en exceso de PbO. En cada lámina se hicieron dos depósitos de la solución sobre el substrato mediante la técnica de “spin-coating”, cristalizando cada uno de ellos con un tratamiento térmico rápido. Todas las láminas resultantes presentaban como única fase cristalina la perovskita de (Pb,CaTiO3. Las láminas presentaron una cierta textura, observándose una orientación preferente en la dirección polar en el caso de las películas depositas sobre MgO y SrTiO3. Como resultado de esta orientación, se midieron coeficientes piroeléctricos, sin polarización previa, en las láminas sobre MgO y SrTiO3. Las medidas piroeléctricas de estos materiales evidencian su utilidad en dispositivos para sensores de infrarrojo.

  17. Formation of multilayer-Eosin Y-sensitized TiO{sub 2} via Fe{sup 3+} coupling for efficient visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yuexiang; Guo, Miaomiao; Peng, Shaoqin [Department of Chemistry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031 (China); Lu, Gongxuan; Li, Shuben [State Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000 (China)

    2009-07-15

    An efficient visible-light active photocatalyst of multilayer-Eosin Y-sensitized TiO{sub 2} is prepared through linkage of Fe{sup 3+} between not only TiO{sub 2} and Eosin Y but also different Eosin Y molecules to form three-dimensional polymeric dye structure. The multilayer-dye-sensitized photocatalyst is found to have high light harvesting efficiency and photocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation ({lambda} > 420 nm). On the optimum conditions (1:1 initial molar ratio of Eosin Y to Fe(NO{sub 3}){sub 3}, initial 10 x 10{sup -3} M Eosin Y, and 1.0 wt% Pt deposited by in situ photoreduction), its maximal apparent quantum yield for hydrogen evolution is 19.1% from aqueous triethanolamine solution (TEOA aq). The present study highlights linking between dye molecules via metal ions as a general way to develop efficient visible-light photocatalyst. (author)

  18. Low temperature fabrication of perovskite solar cells with TiO{sub 2} nanoparticle layers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kanayama, Masato; Oku, Takeo, E-mail: oku@mat.usp.ac.jp; Suzuki, Atsushi [Department of Materials Science, The University of Shiga Prefecture, 2500 Hassaka, Hikone, Shiga 522-8533 (Japan); Yamada, Masahiro; Sakamoto, Hiroki [Energy Technology Laboratories, Osaka Gas Co., Ltd., Osaka 554-0051 (Japan); Minami, Satoshi; Kohno, Kazufumi [Frontier Materials Laboratories, Osaka Gas Chemicals Co., Ltd., Osaka 554-0051 (Japan)

    2016-02-01

    TiO{sub 2}/CH{sub 3}NH{sub 3}PbI{sub 3}-based photovoltaic devices were fabricated by a spin-coating method using a mixture solution. TiO{sub 2} require high-temperature processing to achieve suitably high carrier mobility. TiO{sub 2} electron transport layers and TiO{sub 2} scaffold layers for the perovskite were fabricated from TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles with different grain sizes. The photovoltaic properties and microstructures of solar cells were characterized. Nanoparticle sizes of these TiO{sub 2} were 23 nm and 3 nm and the performance of solar cells was improved by combination of two TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles.

  19. Eosin-Y sensitized core-shell TiO2-ZnO nano-structured photoanodes for dye-sensitized solar cell applications.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Manikandan, V S; Palai, Akshaya K; Mohanty, Smita; Nayak, Sanjay K

    2018-06-01

    In the current investigation, TiO 2 and TiO 2 -ZnO (core-shell) spherical nanoparticles were synthesized by simple combined hydrolysis and refluxing method. A TiO 2 core nanomaterial on the shell material of ZnO was synthesized by utilizing variable ratios of ZnO. The structural characterization of TiO 2 -ZnO core/shell nanoparticles were done by XRD analysis. The spherical structured morphology of the TiO 2 -ZnO has been confirmed through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies. The UV-visible spectra of TiO 2 -ZnO nanostructures were also compared with the pristine TiO 2 to investigate the shift of wavelength. The TiO 2 -ZnO core/shell nanoparticles at the interface efficiently collect the photogenarated electrons from ZnO and also ZnO act a barrier for reduced charge recombination of electrolyte and dye-nanoparticles interface. This combination improved the light absorption which induced the charge transfer ability and dye loading capacity of core-shell nanoparticles. An enhancement in the short circuit current (J sc ) from 1.67 mA/cm 2 to 2.1 mA/cm 2 has been observed for TiO 2 -ZnObased photoanode (with platinum free counter electrode), promises an improvement in the energy conversion efficiency by 57% in comparison with that of the DSSCs based on the pristine TiO 2 . Henceforth, TiO 2 -ZnO photoelectrode in ZnO will effectively act as barrier at the interface of TiO 2 -ZnO and TiO 2 , ensuring the potential for DSSC application. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Potential Fluctuations at Low Temperatures in Mesoscopic-Scale SmTiO3/SrTiO3/SmTiO3 Quantum Well Structures.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hardy, Will J; Isaac, Brandon; Marshall, Patrick; Mikheev, Evgeny; Zhou, Panpan; Stemmer, Susanne; Natelson, Douglas

    2017-04-25

    Heterointerfaces of SrTiO 3 with other transition metal oxides make up an intriguing family of systems with a bounty of coexisting and competing physical orders. Some examples, such as LaAlO 3 /SrTiO 3 , support a high carrier density electron gas at the interface whose electronic properties are determined by a combination of lattice distortions, spin-orbit coupling, defects, and various regimes of magnetic and charge ordering. Here, we study electronic transport in mesoscale devices made with heterostructures of SrTiO 3 sandwiched between layers of SmTiO 3 , in which the transport properties can be tuned from a regime of Fermi-liquid like resistivity (ρ ∝ T 2 ) to a non-Fermi liquid (ρ ∝ T 5/3 ) by controlling the SrTiO 3 thickness. In mesoscale devices at low temperatures, we find unexpected voltage fluctuations that grow in magnitude as T is decreased below 20 K, are suppressed with increasing contact electrode size, and are independent of the drive current and contact spacing distance. Magnetoresistance fluctuations are also observed, which are reminiscent of universal conductance fluctuations but not entirely consistent with their conventional properties. Candidate explanations are considered, and a mechanism is suggested based on mesoscopic temporal fluctuations of the Seebeck coefficient. An improved understanding of charge transport in these model systems, especially their quantum coherent properties, may lead to insights into the nature of transport in strongly correlated materials that deviate from Fermi liquid theory.

  1. Investigating the solubility and cytocompatibility of CaO-Na2 O-SiO2 /TiO2 bioactive glasses.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wren, Anthony W; Coughlan, Aisling; Smith, Courtney M; Hudson, Sarah P; Laffir, Fathima R; Towler, Mark R

    2015-02-01

    This study aims to investigate the solubility of a series of titanium (TiO2 )-containing bioactive glasses and their subsequent effect on cell viability. Five glasses were synthesized in the composition range SiO2 -Na2 O-CaO with 5 mol % of increments TiO2 substituted for SiO2 . Glass solubility was investigated with respect to (1) exposed surface area, (2) particle size, (3) incubation time, and (4) compositional effects. Ion release profiles showed that sodium (Na(+) ) presented high release rates after 1 day and were unchanged between 7 and 14 days. Calcium (Ca(2+) ) release presented a significant change at each time period and was also composition dependent, where a reduction in Ca(2+) release is observed with an increase in TiO2 concentration. Silica (Si(4+) ) release did not present any clear trends while no titanium (Ti(4+) ) was released. Cell numbers were found to increase up to 44%, compared to the growing control population, with a reduction in particle size and with the inclusion of TiO2 in the glass composition. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  2. Surface mediated assembly of small, metastable gold nanoclusters

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pettibone, John M.; Osborn, William A.; Rykaczewski, Konrad; Talin, A. Alec; Bonevich, John E.; Hudgens, Jeffrey W.; Allendorf, Mark D.

    2013-06-01

    The unique properties of metallic nanoclusters are attractive for numerous commercial and industrial applications but are generally less stable than nanocrystals. Thus, developing methodologies for stabilizing nanoclusters and retaining their enhanced functionality is of great interest. We report the assembly of PPh3-protected Au9 clusters from a heterogeneous mixture into films consisting of sub 3 nm nanocluster assemblies. The depositing nanoclusters are metastable in solution, but the resulting nanocluster assemblies are stabilized indefinitely in air or fresh solvent. The films exhibit distinct structure from Au nanoparticles observed by X-ray diffraction, and film dissolution data support the preservation of small nanoclusters. UV-Vis spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron microscopy are used to elucidate information regarding the nanocluster formation and assembly mechanism. Preferential deposition of nanocluster assemblies can be achieved on multiple substrates, including polymer, Cr, Si, SiO2, SiNx, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Unlike other vapor phase coating processes, nanocluster assembly on the MIL-68(In) MOF crystal is capable of preferentially coating the external surface and stabilizing the crystal structure in hydrothermal conditions, which should enhance their storage, separation and delivery capabilities.The unique properties of metallic nanoclusters are attractive for numerous commercial and industrial applications but are generally less stable than nanocrystals. Thus, developing methodologies for stabilizing nanoclusters and retaining their enhanced functionality is of great interest. We report the assembly of PPh3-protected Au9 clusters from a heterogeneous mixture into films consisting of sub 3 nm nanocluster assemblies. The depositing nanoclusters are metastable in solution, but the resulting nanocluster assemblies are stabilized indefinitely in air or fresh solvent. The

  3. An in-situ real-time optical fiber sensor based on surface plasmon resonance for monitoring the growth of TiO2 thin films.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tsao, Yu-Chia; Tsai, Woo-Hu; Shih, Wen-Ching; Wu, Mu-Shiang

    2013-07-23

    An optical fiber sensor based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is proposed for monitoring the thickness of deposited nano-thin films. A side-polished multimode SPR optical fiber sensor with an 850 nm-LD is used as the transducing element for real-time monitoring of the deposited TiO2 thin films. The SPR optical fiber sensor was installed in the TiO2 sputtering system in order to measure the thickness of the deposited sample during TiO2 deposition. The SPR response declined in real-time in relation to the growth of the thickness of the TiO2 thin film. Our results show the same trend of the SPR response in real-time and in spectra taken before and after deposition. The SPR transmitted intensity changes by approximately 18.76% corresponding to 50 nm of deposited TiO2 thin film. We have shown that optical fiber sensors utilizing SPR have the potential for real-time monitoring of the SPR technology of nanometer film thickness. The compact size of the SPR fiber sensor enables it to be positioned inside the deposition chamber, and it could thus measure the film thickness directly in real-time. This technology also has potential application for monitoring the deposition of other materials. Moreover, in-situ real-time SPR optical fiber sensor technology is in inexpensive, disposable technique that has anti-interference properties, and the potential to enable on-line monitoring and monitoring of organic coatings.

  4. Self-organized TiO{sub 2} nanotubes in mixed organic-inorganic electrolytes and their photoelectrochemical performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lai Yuekun [State Key Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, and Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798 (Singapore); Zhuang Huifang; Sun Lan [State Key Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, and Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Chen Zhong [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798 (Singapore); Lin Changjian [State Key Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, and Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China)], E-mail: cjlin@xmu.edu.cn

    2009-11-01

    The formation of self-organized TiO{sub 2} nanotube array films by electrochemical anodizing titanium foils was investigated in a developed organic-inorganic mixed electrolyte. It was found that the structure and morphology of the TiO{sub 2} nanotube layer were greatly dependent upon the electrolyte composition, anodizing potential and time. Under the optimized electrolyte composition and electrochemical conditions, a controllable, well-ordered TiO{sub 2} nanotube array layer could be fabricated in a short time. The diameters of the as-prepared TiO{sub 2} nanotubes could be adjusted from 20 to 150 nm, and the thickness could be adjusted from a few hundred nanometers to several micrometers. The photoresponse and the photocatalytic activity of the highly ordered TiO{sub 2} nanotube array films were also examined. The nanotube array film with a thickness of about 2.5 {mu}m had the highest incident photon to photocurrent conversion efficiency (IPCE) (34.3%) at the 350 nm wavelength, and had better charge transfer ability under UV light illumination. The photocatalytic experimental results indicated that the 450 deg. C annealing samples have the highest photodegradation efficiency for methyl orange pollutant.

  5. Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Anatase TiO2 Nanorods Prepared by Hydrothermal Method

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ming-Jer Jeng

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available The hydrothermal method provides an effective reaction environment for the synthesis of nanocrystalline materials with high purity and well-controlled crystallinity. In this work, we started with various sizes of commercial TiO2 powders and used the hydrothermal method to prepare TiO2 thin films. We found that the synthesized TiO2 nanorods were thin and long when smaller TiO2 particles were used, while larger TiO2 particles produced thicker and shorter nanorods. We also found that TiO2 films prepared by TiO2 nanorods exhibited larger surface roughness than those prepared by the commercial TiO2 particles. It was found that a pure anatase phase of TiO2 nanorods can be obtained from the hydrothermal method. The dye-sensitized solar cells fabricated with TiO2 nanorods exhibited a higher solar efficiency than those fabricated with commercial TiO2 nanoparticles directly. Further, triple-layer structures of TiO2 thin films with different particle sizes were investigated to improve the solar efficiency.

  6. Microstructure development of in situ porous TiO/Cu composites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Qin, Q.D., E-mail: 58124812@qq.com [Department of Materials & Metallurgy Engineering, Guizhou Institute of Technology, No.1 Caiguan Road, Guiyang 550003 (China); 2011 Special Functional Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Guizhou Province, No.1 Caiguan Road, Guiyang 550003 (China); Huang, B.W. [Department of Materials & Metallurgy Engineering, Guizhou Institute of Technology, No.1 Caiguan Road, Guiyang 550003 (China); 2011 Special Functional Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Guizhou Province, No.1 Caiguan Road, Guiyang 550003 (China); Li, W. [Department of Materials Engineering, Zhengzhou Technology College, No. 81 Zhengshang Road, Zhengzhou, 450051 (China); Shao, F. [2011 Special Functional Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Guizhou Province, No.1 Caiguan Road, Guiyang 550003 (China)

    2016-07-05

    An in situ porous TiO/Cu composite is successfully prepared using powder metallurgy by the reaction of Ti{sub 2}CO and Cu powder. Ti{sub 2}CO powder is produced by the carbothermic reduction of titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) at 1000 °C. Morphological examination of the composite shows that the porosity of composites lies in the range between 10.2% and 35.2%. As the volume fraction of TiO increases, the size of TiO becomes more fine. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fracture morphology indicates that TiO particles and the Cu matrix are connected by a Cu–Ti phase. - Highlights: • An porous TiO/Cu composite is successfully prepared by powder metallurgy technology. • The porosity of composites lies in the range between 10.2% and 35.2%. • The TiO particles and the Cu matrix are connected by a Cu-Ti phase.

  7. Fabrication of mesoporus TiO_2 from TiOSO_4 from leached ilmenite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wahyuningsih S; Ramelan AH; Rinawati L; Munifa RMI; Saputri LNMZ; Hanif QA; Pranata HP; Ismoyo YA

    2016-01-01

    The fabrication of mesoporous TiO_2 from TiOSO_4 precursor through roasted process, leaching, and homogeneous hydrolysis of ilmenite had been done. Analysis of X-ray Diffraction (XRD) showed the characteristics of ilmenite, hematite and rutile. After roasting the mineral ilmenite with the addition of Na_2S at a temperature of 800°C the XRD characterization showed peaks characteristic for hematite, TiO_2 anatase, TiO_2 rutile, Na_2SO_4, NaFeS_2, and NaFeO_2. Leaching processes of roasted ilmenite which maintained with an addition of strong acid H_2SO_4 6; 7.2; 9; 12, and 18 N were obtained TiOSO_4 filtrate. The results indicated that the more concentration of H_2SO_4 the more solubility of ilmenite, where optimum solubility was achieved when H_2SO_4 concentration was 12 N. The fabrication of mesoporous TiO_2 from TiOSO_4 was conducted with homogeneous hydrolysis method used urea and surfactant template F-127. XRD characterization results indicated the dominant peak of TiO_2 anatase. Crystallite size of 3.2 nm was obtained and the results of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that the presence of urea and surfactant be able to arrange porosity. (author)

  8. Nano/micro Sr{sub 2}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 18} crystallites: Size dependent structural, second harmonic and piezoelectric properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tukaram, Shet; Bhimireddi, Rajasekhar; Varma, K.B.R., E-mail: kbrvarma@mrc.iisc.ernet.in

    2016-09-15

    Graphical abstract: Synthesis of Sr{sub 2}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 18} nano/micro crystallites and their size dependent non-linear optical and piezoelectric responses. - Highlights: • Nano/microcrystallites of Sr{sub 2}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 18} were synthesized via sol-gel route. • Crystallite size dependent structural and physical properties were studied. • SHG intensity (1.4 times that of KDP powder) from these crystallites was recorded. • PFM studies on isolated crystallite of 480 nm exhibited d{sub 33} as high as 27 pm/V. • Single domain nature of the crystallites below 160 nm was observed. - Abstract: Strontium bismuth titanate (Sr{sub 2}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 18}) powders comprising crystallites of average sizes in the range of 94–1400 nm were prepared via citrate-assisted sol-gel route. With an increase in the average crystallite size there was a change in the lattice parameters and shift in the Raman vibration modes. Second harmonic signal (532 nm) intensity of the Sr{sub 2}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 18} powders increased with the increase in the average crystallite size and the maximum intensity obtained in the reflection mode was 1.4 times as high as that of the powdered KH{sub 2}PO{sub 4}. Piezo Force Microscopic analyses carried out on isolated crystallite of size 74 nm, established a single domain nature with the coercive field as high as 347 kV/cm. There was a systematic increase in the d{sub 33} value with an increase in the size of the isolated crystallites and a high piezoelectric coefficient of ∼27 pm/V was obtained from an isolated crystallite of size 480 nm.

  9. Photocatalysis and characterization of the gel-derived TiO{sub 2} and P-TiO{sub 2} transparent thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yu, Hsuan-Fu, E-mail: hfyu@mail.tku.edu.tw [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Ceramic Materials Laboratory, Tamkang University, Taipei 25137, Taiwan (China); Energy and Opto-Electronic Materials Research Center, Tamkang University, Taipei 25137, Taiwan (China); Wang, Chang-Wen [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Ceramic Materials Laboratory, Tamkang University, Taipei 25137, Taiwan (China)

    2011-07-29

    The gel-derived TiO{sub 2} and P-TiO{sub 2} transparent films coated on fused-SiO{sub 2} substrates were prepared using a spin-coating technique. Effects of phosphorus dopants and calcination temperature on crystal structure, crystallite size, microstructure, light transmittance and photocatalytic activity of the films were investigated. By introducing P atoms to Ti-O framework, the growth of anatase crystallites was hindered and the crystal structure of anatase-TiO{sub 2} could withstand temperature up to 900 deg. C. The photocatalytic activities of the prepared films were characterized using the characteristic time constant ({tau}) for the photocatalytic reaction. The titania film with a smaller {tau} value possesses a higher photocatalytic ability. After exposing to 365-nm UV light for 12 h, the P-TiO{sub 2} films calcined between 600 deg. C and 900 deg. C can photocatalytically decomposed {>=} 84 mol% of the methylene blue in water with corresponding {tau} {<=} 7.1 h, which were better than the pure TiO{sub 2} films prepared at the same calcination temperature.

  10. The influence of TiO2 particle size and conductivity of the CuCrO2 ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    38

    Keywords: Solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells, Sol-Gel method, TiO2 nanoparticle, .... at 2.0 by dropwise addition of 0.1 M hydrochloric acid with vigorous stirring. The ... The TiO2 pastes were prepared by Pechini-type sol-gel method [26, 27].

  11. Size effect of primary Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} additions on the characteristics of the nanostructured ferritic ODS alloys: Comparing as-milled and as-milled/annealed alloys using S/TEM

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saber, Mostafa, E-mail: msaber@ncsu.edu; Xu, Weizong; Li, Lulu; Zhu, Yuntian; Koch, Carl C.; Scattergood, Ronald O.

    2014-09-15

    The need for providing S/TEM evidence to clarify the mechanisms of nano-scale precipitate formation was the motivation of this investigation. In this study, an Fe–14Cr–0.4Ti alloy was ball-milled with different amounts of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} content up to 10 wt.%, and then annealed at temperatures up to 1100 °C. Micron-size Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles were substituted for the nano-size counterpart to elucidate the mechanism of oxide precipitate formation. The S/TEM studies revealed that the microstructure of the alloy with 10 wt.% yttria contained amorphous undissolved Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} after ball milling, while a small part of the initial oxide particles were dissolved into the solid solution. Consequently, when the amount of yttria was reduced to 1 wt.%, the amorphous phase of the yttria vanished and the whole content of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} was dissolved into the BCC solid solution. Defect analysis of precipitates on the annealed samples via S/TEM and micro-hardness studies revealed that the use of micron-size primary oxide particles can produce nano-size precipitates, stable up to temperatures as high as 1100 °C, and uniformly distributed throughout the microstructure. This study indicates that the use of high energy ball milling along with micron-size primary oxide particles can lead to nanostructured ferritic ODS alloys without the use of nano-size primary oxide additions.

  12. Effect of Core-Shell Ag@TiO2 Volume Ratio on Characteristics of TiO2-Based DSSCs

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ho Chang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available This paper aims to develop photoanode material required by dye-sensitized solar cells. The material prepared is in the form of Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites. This material is used to replace the titanium oxide powder commonly used in general DSSCs. The prepared Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites are mixed with Degussa P25 TiO2 in different proportions. Triton X-100 is added and polyethylene glycol (PEG at 20 wt% is used as a polymer additive. This study tests the particle size and material properties of Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites and measures the photoelectric conversion efficiency and IPCE of DSSCs. Experimental results show that the DSSC prepared by Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites can achieve a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 3.67%. When Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites are mixed with P25 nanoparticles in specific proportions, and when the thickness of the photoelectrode thin film is 28 μm, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can reach 6.06%, with a fill factor of 0.52, open-circuit voltage of 0.64V, and short-circuit density of 18.22 mAcm−2. Compared to the DSSC prepared by P25 TiO2 only, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can be raised by 38% under the proposed approach.

  13. Sputtering characteristics, crystal structures, and transparent conductive properties of TiO{sub x}N{sub y} films deposited on {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}(0 0 0 1) and glass substrates

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Akazawa, Housei, E-mail: akazawa.housei@lab.ntt.co.jp [NTT Microsystem Integration Laboratories, 3-1 Morinosato Wakamiya, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0198 (Japan)

    2012-12-15

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Reactive sputtering of TiO{sub x}N{sub y} films was achieved under metal-mode conditions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Partially substituting O in TiO{sub 2} with N formed anatase rather than rutile. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x} on Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}(0 0 0 1) was more transparent and conductive than on glass substrate. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nb{sup 5+} ions could be doped as donors in TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x} anatase crystals. - Abstract: Adding N{sub 2} gas during reactive sputtering of a Ti target prevented the target surface from being severely poisoned by oxygen atoms and sustained a high deposition rate for titanium oxynitride films under metal-mode-like sputtering conditions. With progress in the degree of oxidization, films deposited onto a glass substrate varied from TiO{sub 1-x}N{sub x} having a face-centered cubic (fcc) structure to TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x} having an anatase structure. Titanium oxynitride films deposited on an Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}(0 0 0 1) substrate were epitaxial with major orientations toward the (1 1 1) and (2 0 0) directions for fcc-TiO{sub 1-x}N{sub x} and (1 1 2) for anatase-TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x}. Intermediately oxidized films between TiO{sub 1-x}N{sub x} and TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x} were amorphous on the glass substrate but crystallized into a Magneli phase, Ti{sub n}O(N){sub 2n-1}, on the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}(0 0 0 1) substrate. Partially substituting oxygen in TiO{sub 2} with nitrogen as well as continuously irradiating the growing film surface with a Xe plasma stream preferentially formed anatase rather than rutile. However, the occupation of anion sites with enough oxygen rather than nitrogen was the required condition for anatase crystals to form. The transparent conductive properties of epitaxial TiO{sub 2-x}N{sub x} films on Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}(0 0 0 1) were superior to those of microcrystalline films on the glass substrate. Since resistivity and optical transmittance of TiO

  14. Ajuste teórico de las curvas PTCR de BaTiO3 dopado con niobio

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Castro, M. S.

    2002-02-01

    Full Text Available In this work, a theoretical fitting to the experimental PTCR effect in slightly Nb-doped BaTiO3 from the Heywang-Jonker model is simulated. Besides, a qualitative approach was used to evaluate the GBBL characteristics of strongly Nb - doped BaTiO3. In both cases, a link between the electrical properties and the defect profile developed in these based - BaTiO3 ceramics was established. From the results, good agreement between experimental and calculated results was obtained for the PTCR ceramics. Asmall increment in Nb2O5 concentration leads to an increasing in the concentration of occupied acceptor states, the energy of the surface state and also the barrier height. In these cases, microstructural observations shown an important grain growth with average grain size between 10 and 100μm. EPR results clearly indicate low concentration of cationic vacancies for these materials. This phenomenon is associated to a charge-compensation mechanism in slightly-doped BaTiO3, that result in a semiconducting behaviour. On the other hand, the electrical behaviour of strongly–doped BaTiO3 moves away from the PTCR effect, and the material becomes insulating with noticeable GBBL characteristics. In this case, microstructural observations along defect structure analysis encourage the hypothesis in which barium vacancies act as acceptor at grain boundaries and play and important role in restricting grain growth of Nb2O5-BaTiO3 ceramics.En este trabajo se determinó la influencia de la concentración de Nb2O5 sobre el comportamiento PTCR de cerámicos basados en BaTiO3. Por otra parte, se estudió el impacto de una gran concentración del dopante sobre el comportamiento GBBL del BaTiO3. En ambos casos, se estableció una relación entre las propiedades eléctricas observadas y la estructura de defectos iónicos desarrollada. La aplicación del modelo de Heywang-Jonker permite el ajuste teórico de las curvas de resistividad – temperatura de los cerámicos PTCR

  15. XRD analysis of undoped and Fe doped TiO2 nanoparticles by Williamson Hall method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bharti, Bandna; Barman, P. B.; Kumar, Rajesh

    2015-01-01

    Undoped and Fe doped titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles were synthesized by sol-gel method at room temperature. The synthesized samples were annealed at 500°C. For structural analysis, the prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The crystallite size of TiO 2 and Fe doped TiO 2 nanoparticles were calculated by Scherer’s formula, and was found to be 15 nm and 11 nm, respectively. Reduction in crystallite size of TiO 2 with Fe doping was observed. The anatase phase of Fe-doped TiO 2 nanoparticles was also confirmed by X-ray diffraction. By using Williamson-Hall method, lattice strain and crystallite size were also calculated. Williamson–Hall plot indicates the presence of compressive strain for TiO 2 and tensile strain for Fe-TiO 2 nanoparticles annealed at 500°C

  16. On stoichiometry and intermixing at the spinel/perovskite interface in CoFe2O4/BaTiO3 thin films.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tileli, Vasiliki; Duchamp, Martial; Axelsson, Anna-Karin; Valant, Matjaz; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E; Alford, Neil McN

    2015-01-07

    The performance of complex oxide heterostructures depends primarily on the interfacial coupling of the two component structures. This interface character inherently varies with the synthesis method and conditions used since even small composition variations can alter the electronic, ferroelectric, or magnetic functional properties of the system. The focus of this article is placed on the interface character of a pulsed laser deposited CoFe2O4/BaTiO3 thin film. Using a range of state-of-the-art transmission electron microscopy methodologies, the roles of substrate morphology, interface stoichiometry, and cation intermixing are determined on the atomic level. The results reveal a surprisingly uneven BaTiO3 substrate surface formed after the film deposition and Fe atom incorporation in the top few monolayers inside the unit cell of the BaTiO3 crystal. Towards the CoFe2O4 side, a disordered region extending several nanometers from the interface was revealed and both Ba and Ti from the substrate were found to diffuse into the spinel layer. The analysis also shows that within this somehow incompatible composite interface, a different phase is formed corresponding to the compound Ba2Fe3Ti5O15, which belongs to the ilmenite crystal structure of FeTiO3 type. The results suggest a chemical activity between these two oxides, which could lead to the synthesis of complex engineered interfaces.

  17. Crystal structure mediates mode of cell death in TiO2 nanotoxicity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Braydich-Stolle, Laura K.; Schaeublin, Nicole M.; Murdock, Richard C.; Jiang, Jingkun; Biswas, Pratim; Schlager, John J.; Hussain, Saber M.

    2009-01-01

    Certain properties that nanoparticles possess differentiate them from their bulk counterparts, and these characteristics must be evaluated prior to nanoparticle studies and include: size, shape, dispersion, physical and chemical properties, surface area, and surface chemistry. Early nanotoxicity studies evaluating TiO 2 have yielded conflicting data which identify either size or crystal structure as the mediating property for nano-TiO 2 toxicity. However, it is important to note that none of these studies examined size with the crystal structure composition controlled for or examined crystal structure while controlling the nanoparticle size. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of size and crystal structure in TiO 2 nanotoxicity while controlling for as many other nanoproperties as possible using the HEL-30 mouse keratinocyte cell line as a model for dermal exposure. In the size-dependent studies, all the nanoparticles are 100% anatase, and aggregate sizes were determined in order to take into account the effect of agglomeration on size-dependent toxicity. In addition, varying crystal structures were assessed while the size of the nanoparticles was controlled. We were able to identify that both size and crystal structure contribute to cytotoxicity and that the mechanism of cell death varies based on crystal structure. The 100% anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles, regardless of size, induced cell necrosis, while the rutile TiO 2 nanoparticles initiated apoptosis through formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

  18. Crystallite size variation of TiO{sub 2} samples depending time heat treatment; Variacao do tamanho de cristalito de amostras de TiO{sub 2} em funcao do tempo de tratamento termico

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Galante, A.G.M.; Paula, F.R. de; Montanhera, M.A.; Pereira, E.A., E-mail: amandagmgalante@gmail.com [Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP (Brazil). Departamento de Fisica e Quimica; Spada, E.R. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), Ilha Solteira, SP (Brazil). Instituto de Fisica

    2016-07-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) is an oxide semiconductor that may be found in mixed phase or in distinct phases: brookite, anatase and rutile. In this work was carried out the study of the residence time influence at a given temperature in the TiO{sub 2} powder physical properties. After the powder synthesis, the samples were divided and heat treated at 650 °C with a ramp up to 3 °C/min and a residence time ranging from 0 to 20 hours and subsequently characterized by x-ray diffraction. Analyzing the obtained diffraction patterns, it was observed that, from 5-hour residence time, began the two-distinct phase coexistence: anatase and rutile. It also calculated the average crystallite size of each sample. The results showed an increase in average crystallite size with increasing residence time of the heat treatment. (author)

  19. Self-organization of nanocluster δ-layers at ion-beam-mixed Si-SiO2 interfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Roentzsch, L.

    2003-11-01

    This diploma thesis presents experimental evidence of a theoretical concept which predicts the self-organization of δ-layers of silicon nanoclusters in the buried oxide of a MOS-like structure. This approach of ''bottom-up'' structuring might be of eminent importance in view of future semiconductor memory devices. Unconventionally, a 15 nm thin SiO 2 layer, which is enclosed by a 50 nm poly-Si capping layer and the Si substrate, is irradiated with Si + ions. Ion impact drives the system to a state far from thermodynamic equilibrium, i.e. the local composition of the target is modified to a degree unattainable in common processes. A region of SiO x (x 2 matrix at a distance of ∼3 nm from the Si substrate. The physical mechanisms of ion mixing of the two Si-SiO 2 interfaces and subsequent phase separation, which result in the desired sample structure, are elucidated from the viewpoint of computer simulations. In addition, experimental evidence is presented based on various methods, including TEM, RBS, and SIMS. A novel method of Si nanocluster decoration is of particular importance which applies Ge as contrast enhancing element in TEM studies of tiny Si nanoclusters. (orig.)

  20. Comportamiento plástico a alta temperatura de Al2O3 codopado con CuO y TiO2 fabricado por reacción

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Domínguez-Rodríguez, A.

    2003-08-01

    Full Text Available The high temperature plastic behavior of reaction-bonded alumina doped with equimolar amounts of copper and titanium oxides (CuO and TiO2, respectively has been studied by means of creep and stress relaxation tests in air. Deformation results have been correlated with microstructural observations and X-ray diffraction studies in order to deduce the mechanism responsible for the deformation. This material exhibits plasticity at temperatures as low as 950ºC in contrast with other aluminas. At temperatures near 1000ºC a linear relation between the strain rate and the stress has been detected (a stress exponent n equal to 1 but both above and below this temperature higher values of n have been observed.Se ha estudiado el comportamiento plástico a alta temperatura de alúmina codopada con cantidades equimolares de óxidos de cobre (CuO y titanio (TiO2 fabricada por reacción mediante el empleo de ensayos de fluencia y de relajación de tensiones en atmósfera de aire. Los resultados de los ensayos de deformación plástica han sido correlacionados con observaciones microestructurales y difracción de rayos X con vistas a deducir el mecanismo responsable del proceso de deformación. Este material presenta comportamiento plástico a temperaturas tan bajas como 950ºC en contraste con otras aluminas. A temperaturas alrededor de 1000ºC se ha observado una relación lineal entre la velocidad de deformación y la tensión (exponente de tensión igual a uno mientras que a temperaturas por encima y por debajo de este valor el exponente de tensión toma valores más elevados.

  1. Nanosystems in Ceramic Oxides Created by Means of Ion Implantation

    OpenAIRE

    Van Huis, M.A.

    2003-01-01

    The material properties of nanometer-sized clusters are dependent on the cluster size. Changing the cluster dimensions induces structural phase transformations, metal-insulator transitions, non-linear optical properties and widening of the band gap of semiconductors. In this work, nanoclusters are created by ion implantation followed by thermal annealing. The ceramic oxides MgO and Al2O3 are used as embedding materials because of their stability and optical transparency. All clusters were cre...

  2. Electronic structure and orientation relationship of Li nanoclusters embedded in MgO studied by depth-selective positron annihilation two-dimensional angular correlation

    Science.gov (United States)

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

    2002-08-01

    Quantum-confined positrons are sensitive probes for determining the electronic structure of nanoclusters embedded in materials. In this work, a depth-selective positron annihilation 2D-ACAR (two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation) method is used to determine the electronic structure of Li nanoclusters formed by implantation of 1016-cm-2 30-keV 6Li ions in MgO (100) and (110) crystals and by subsequent annealing at 950 K. Owing to the difference between the positron affinities of lithium and MgO, the Li nanoclusters act as quantum dots for positrons. 2D-ACAR distributions for different projections reveal a semicoherent fitting of the embedded metallic Li nanoclusters to the host MgO lattice. Ab initio Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker calculations of the momentum density show that the anisotropies of the experimental distributions are consistent with an fcc crystal structure of the Li nanoclusters. The observed reduction of the width of the experimental 2D-ACAR distribution is attributed to positron trapping in vacancies associated with Li clusters. This work proposes a method for studying the electronic structure of metallic quantum dots embedded in an insulating material.

  3. Microstructure and tensile properties of oxide dispersion strengthened Fe–14Cr–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Auger, M.A., E-mail: mauger@fis.uc3m.es [Departamento de Física, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganés (Spain); Castro, V. de; Leguey, T.; Monge, M.A.; Muñoz, A.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Física, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganés (Spain)

    2013-11-15

    Two ODS ferritic steels with nominal compositions (wt.%): Fe–14Cr–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} have been produced by mechanical alloying and consolidation by hot isostatic pressing. The microstructure and tensile properties of these materials after being forged and heat-treated at 1123 K have been investigated to clarify the interrelation between composition, microstructure and mechanical properties. The second-phase precipitates in these alloys have been analyzed by high-angle annular dark-field imaging in scanning TEM mode and electron diffraction. Fe–14Cr–2W–0.3Ti–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibits a duplex microstructure consisting of large recrystallized grains, as large as 1.5 μm, and unrecovered regions containing submicron equiaxed grains. In addition, three types of secondary phase particles have been found: large M{sub 23}C{sub 6} particles containing W and Cr, (Cr + Ti) rich spherical particles with diameters between 50 and 500 nm, and fine (Y + Ti) oxide particles with sizes below 30 nm. In contrast, Fe14CrY shows a uniform structure of equiaxed grains, with sizes in the range 0.5–3 μm, containing a fine dispersion of Y oxide particles (<30 nm) homogeneously distributed inside the grains, as well as large carbide and oxide particles. Tensile tests performed over the temperature range 273–973 K have revealed that the alloy containing W and Ti has lower yield and tensile strengths than Fe–14Cr–0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} at temperatures up to 773 K, but the opposite appears to occur beyond this temperature.

  4. Resistive switching in TiO{sub 2} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yang, Lin

    2011-10-26

    , which implying a Cu and Ag filament formation. With the help of conductive atomic force microspectroscopy the local conductivity of the initial TiO{sub 2} thin films and the TiO{sub 2} in ON state after removing the top Cu electrode are investigated. The results from both cases confirm the local filaments formation in nanometer scale under the proper electrical voltages contributing to the observed switching behaviors. The time of flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy analysis shows the interdiffusion of Cu into the TiO{sub 2} layer. Therefore the resistive switching in the TiO{sub 2} with Cu electrodes could involve the electrochemical metallization process which forms and dissolves the Cu filament with respect to the applied voltage. (orig.)

  5. Direct observation and analysis of yolk-shell materials using low-voltage high-resolution scanning electron microscopy: Nanometal-particles encapsulated in metal-oxide, carbon, and polymer

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Asahina, Shunsuke; Suga, Mitsuo; Takahashi, Hideyuki [JEOL Ltd., SM Business Unit, Tokyo (Japan); Young Jeong, Hu [Graduate School of EEWS, WCU/BK21+, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701 (Korea, Republic of); Galeano, Carolina; Schüth, Ferdi [Department of Heterogeneous Catalysis, Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Mülheim (Germany); Terasaki, Osamu, E-mail: terasaki@mmk.su.se, E-mail: terasaki@kaist.ac.kr [Graduate School of EEWS, WCU/BK21+, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701 (Korea, Republic of); Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Berzelii Centre EXSELENT on Porous Materials, Stockholm University, SE-10691 Stockholm (Sweden)

    2014-11-01

    Nanometal particles show characteristic features in chemical and physical properties depending on their sizes and shapes. For keeping and further enhancing their features, the particles should be protected from coalescence or degradation. One approach is to encapsulate the nanometal particles inside pores with chemically inert or functional materials, such as carbon, polymer, and metal oxides, which contain mesopores to allow permeation of only chemicals not the nanometal particles. Recently developed low-voltage high-resolution scanning electron microscopy was applied to the study of structural, chemical, and electron state of both nanometal particles and encapsulating materials in yolk-shell materials of Au@C, Ru/Pt@C, Au@TiO{sub 2}, and Pt@Polymer. Progresses in the following categories were shown for the yolk-shell materials: (i) resolution of topographic image contrast by secondary electrons, of atomic-number contrast by back-scattered electrons, and of elemental mapping by X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy; (ii) sample preparation for observing internal structures; and (iii) X-ray spectroscopy such as soft X-ray emission spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy was also used for characterization of Au@C.

  6. Storage of Hydrogen in the Ti-Zr System; Almacenamiento de hidrogeno en el sistema Ti-Zr

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Salmones, J.; Zeifert, B. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, ESIQIE, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: jose_salmones@yahoo.com.mx; Ortega-Aviles, M. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Contreras-Larios, J. L. [Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Garibay-Febles, V. [Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

    2009-09-15

    This research was conducted to contribute to the study of hydrogen storage systems, synthesizing and characterizing two Ti-Zr based systems: I) titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) + zirconium acetylacetonate (C{sub 20}H{sub 28}O{sub 8}Zr) and II) titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) + zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl{sub 4}). Both systems were prepared using mechanical grinding under the same conditions, with a composition of 50% Ti and Zr weights and grinding times of 2, 5, 7, 15, 30 and 70 hours. The samples were evaluated with hydrogen absorption tests and characterized with BET, DRX and MET. The results of hydrogen storage for one absorption-desorption cycle, at ambient temperature and pressure, showed that the samples from system I absorbed the greatest amount of hydrogen, but did not desorb them, while samples from system II liberated the hydrogen absorbed in them. The increase in temperature from mechanical grinding is directly associated with changes in the adsorption capacity of hydrogen, the size of the particle and formation of new components, as shows by BET measurements, XRD diffractograms and MET micrographs. The formation of Ti and Zr oxide nanoparticles in the samples in series II were associated with the desorption capacity of hydrogen. [Spanish] Esta investigacion se realizo para contribuir al estudio de sistemas para almacenamiento de hidrogeno, sintetizando y caracterizando dos sistemas base Ti-Zr: I) dioxido de titanio (TiO{sub 2}) + acetilacetonato de zirconio (C{sub 20}H{sub 28}O{sub 8}Zr) y II) dioxido de titanio (TiO{sub 2}) + tetracloruro de zirconio (ZrCl{sub 4}). Ambos sistemas se prepararon por molienda mecanica a las mismas condiciones, con composicion de 50% en peso de Ti y Zr y tiempos de molienda de 2, 5, 7, 15, 30 y 70 hrs. Las muestras fueron evaluadas mediante pruebas de absorcion de hidrogeno y caracterizadas por BET, DRX y MET. Los resultados de almacenamiento de hidrogeno para un ciclo de absorcion-desorcion, a presion y temperatura ambientes

  7. Characterization and Comparison of Photocatalytic Activity Silver Ion doped on TiO2(TiO2/Ag+) and Silver Ion doped on Black TiO2(Black TiO2/Ag+)

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Jin Yi; Sim, Ho Hyung; Song, Sinae; Noh, Yeoung Ah; Lee, Hong Woon; Taik Kim, Hee

    2018-03-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the representative ceramic materials containing photocatalyst, optic and antibacterial activity. The hydroxyl radical in TiO2 applies to the intensive oxidizing agent, hence TiO2 is suitable to use photocatalytic materials. Black TiO2was prepared through reduction of amorphous TiO2 conducting under H2 which leads to color changes. Its black color is proven that absorbs 100% light across the whole-visible light, drawing enhancement of photocatalytic property. In this study, we aimed to compare the photocatalytic activity of silver ion doped on TiO2(TiO2/Ag+) and silver ion doped on black TiO2(black TiO2/Ag+) under visible light range. TiO2/Ag+ was fabricated following steps. 1) TiO2 was synthesized by a sol-gel method from Titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP). 2) Then AgNO3 was added during an aging process step for silver ion doping on the surface of TiO2. Moreover, Black TiO2/Ag+ was obtained same as TiO2/Ag+ except for calcination under H2. The samples were characterized X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible reflectance (UV-vis DRS), and Methylene Blue degradation test. XRD analysis confirmed morphology of TiO2. The band gap of black TiO2/Ag+ was confirmed (2.6 eV) through UV-vis DRS, which was lower than TiO2/Ag+ (2.9 eV). The photocatalytic effect was conducted by methylene blue degradation test. It demonstrated that black TiO2/Ag+ had a photocatalytic effect under UV light also visible light.

  8. Optical properties of multicomponent antimony-silver nanoclusters formed in silica by sequential ion implantation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zuhr, R.A.

    1995-11-01

    The linear and nonlinear optical properties of nanometer dimension metal colloids embedded in a dielectric depend explicitly on the electronic structure of the metal nanoclusters. The ability to control the electronic structure of the nanoclusters may make it possible to tailor the optical properties for enhanced performance. By sequential implantation of different metal ion species multi-component nanoclusters can be formed with significantly different optical properties than single element metal nanoclusters. The authors report the formation of multi-component Sb/Ag nanoclusters in silica by sequential implantation of Sb and Ag. Samples were implanted with relative ratios of Sb to Ag of 1:1 and 3:1. A second set of samples was made by single element implantations of Ag and Sb at the same energies and doses used to make the sequentially implanted samples. All samples were characterized using RBS and both linear and nonlinear optical measurements. The presence of both ions significantly modifies the optical properties of the composites compared to the single element nanocluster glass composites. In the sequentially implanted samples the optical density is lower, and the strong surface plasmon resonance absorption observed in the Ag implanted samples is not present. At the same time the nonlinear response of the these samples is larger than for the samples implanted with Sb alone, suggesting that the addition of Ag can increase the nonlinear response of the Sb particles formed. The results are consistent with the formation of multi-component Sb/Ag colloids

  9. Fabrication of TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin film electrodes for Li-ion micro-batteries by pulsed laser deposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Daramalla, V. [Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bengalore 560012 (India); Penki, Tirupathi Rao; Munichandraiah, N. [Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bengalore 560012 (India); Krupanidhi, S.B., E-mail: sbk@mrc.iisc.ernet.in [Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bengalore 560012 (India)

    2016-11-15

    Graphical abstract: The TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin film electrodes as anode material in Li-ion rechargeable micro-batteries are successfully demonstrated. The pulsed laser deposited TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin film electrode delivers high discharge specific capacity of 143 μAh μm{sup −1} cm{sup −2} at 50 μA cm{sup −2} current density, with 92% coulombic efficiency. The thin films are very stable in crystal structure, with good fast reversible reaction at average Li-insertion voltage 1.65 V. - Highlights: • TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin films fabricated by pulsed laser deposition. • TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} as anode thin films demonstrated successfully. • High discharge specific capacity with 92% coulombic efficiency. • Excellent crystal stability and good reversible reaction. - Abstract: Pulsed laser deposited TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin films are demonstrated as anode materials in rechargeable Li-ion micro-batteries. The monoclinic and chemically pure TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} films in different morphologies were successfully deposited at 750 °C. The single phase formation was confirmed by grazing incident X-ray diffraction, micro-Raman spectroscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The oxygen partial pressure during the deposition significantly influenced the properties of TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} films. The TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin films exhibited excellent stability with fast kinetics reversible reaction. The TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} films showed initial discharge specific capacity of 176, 143 μAh μm{sup −1} cm{sup −2} at 30, 50 μA cm{sup −2} current densities respectively with 92% coulombic efficiency in a non-aqueous electrolyte consisting of Li{sup +} ions. The high discharge specific capacity of TiNb{sub 2}O{sub 7} thin films may be attributed to nanometer grain size with high roughness which offers high surface area for Li-diffusion during charge and discharge

  10. Electric Properties of Pb(Sb1/2Nb1/2)O3 PbTiO3 PbZrO3 Ceramics

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kawamura, Yasushi; Ohuchi, Hiromu

    1994-09-01

    Solid-solution ceramics of ternary system xPb(Sb1/2Nb1/2)O3 yPbTiO3 zPbZrO3 were prepared by the solid-state reaction of powder materials. Ceramic, electric, dielectric and piezoelectric properties and crystal structures of the system were studied. Sintering of the system xPb(Sb1/2Nb1/2)O3 yPbTiO3 zPbZrO3 is much easier than that of each end composition, and well-sintered high-density ceramics were obtained for the compositions near the morphotropic transformation. Piezoelectric ceramics with high relative dielectric constants, high radial coupling coefficient and low resonant resistance were obtained for the composition near the morphotropic transformation. The composition Pb(Sb1/2Nb1/2)0.075Ti0.45Zr0.475O3 showed the highest dielectric constant (ɛr=1690), and the composition Pb(Sb1/2Nb1/2)0.05Ti0.45Zr0.5O3 showed the highest radial coupling coefficient (kp=64%).

  11. Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Anatase and Rutile TiO2 Thin Films on CHO-K1 Cells in Vitro

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Blanca Cervantes

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available Cytotoxicity of titanium dioxide (TiO2 thin films on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1 cells was evaluated after 24, 48 and 72 h of culture. The TiO2 thin films were deposited using direct current magnetron sputtering. These films were post-deposition annealed at different temperatures (300, 500 and 800 °C toward the anatase to rutile phase transformation. The root-mean-square (RMS surface roughness of TiO2 films went from 2.8 to 8.08 nm when the annealing temperature was increased from 300 to 800 °C. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM results showed that the TiO2 films’ thickness values fell within the nanometer range (290–310 nm. Based on the results of the tetrazolium dye and trypan blue assays, we found that TiO2 thin films showed no cytotoxicity after the aforementioned culture times at which cell viability was greater than 98%. Independently of the annealing temperature of the TiO2 thin films, the number of CHO-K1 cells on the control substrate and on all TiO2 thin films was greater after 48 or 72 h than it was after 24 h; the highest cell survival rate was observed in TiO2 films annealed at 800 °C. These results indicate that TiO2 thin films do not affect mitochondrial function and proliferation of CHO-K1 cells, and back up the use of TiO2 thin films in biomedical science.

  12. Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Anatase and Rutile TiO2 Thin Films on CHO-K1 Cells in Vitro

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cervantes, Blanca; López-Huerta, Francisco; Vega, Rosario; Hernández-Torres, Julián; García-González, Leandro; Salceda, Emilio; Herrera-May, Agustín L.; Soto, Enrique

    2016-01-01

    Cytotoxicity of titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin films on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells was evaluated after 24, 48 and 72 h of culture. The TiO2 thin films were deposited using direct current magnetron sputtering. These films were post-deposition annealed at different temperatures (300, 500 and 800 °C) toward the anatase to rutile phase transformation. The root-mean-square (RMS) surface roughness of TiO2 films went from 2.8 to 8.08 nm when the annealing temperature was increased from 300 to 800 °C. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) results showed that the TiO2 films’ thickness values fell within the nanometer range (290–310 nm). Based on the results of the tetrazolium dye and trypan blue assays, we found that TiO2 thin films showed no cytotoxicity after the aforementioned culture times at which cell viability was greater than 98%. Independently of the annealing temperature of the TiO2 thin films, the number of CHO-K1 cells on the control substrate and on all TiO2 thin films was greater after 48 or 72 h than it was after 24 h; the highest cell survival rate was observed in TiO2 films annealed at 800 °C. These results indicate that TiO2 thin films do not affect mitochondrial function and proliferation of CHO-K1 cells, and back up the use of TiO2 thin films in biomedical science. PMID:28773740

  13. Effect of Al2O3 and TiO2 nanoparticles on aquatic organisms

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gosteva, I; Morgalev, Yu; Morgaleva, T; Morgalev, S

    2015-01-01

    Environmental toxicity of aqueous disperse systems of nanoparticles of binary compounds of titanium dioxides (with particle size Δ 50 =5 nm, Δ 50 =50 nm, Δ 50 =90 nm), aluminum oxide alpha-forms (Δ 50 =7 nm and Δ 50 =70 nm) and macro forms (TiO 2 Δ 50 =350 nm, Al 2 O 3 A 50 =4000 nm) were studied using biological testing methods. The bioassay was performed using a set of test organisms representing the major trophic levels. We found the dependence of the toxic effect concentration degree of nTiO 2 and nAl 2 O 3 on the fluorescence of the bacterial biosensor 'Ekolyum', the chemotactic response of ciliates Paramecium caudatum, the growth of unicellular algae Chlorella vulgaris Beijer and mortality of entomostracans Daphnia magna Straus. We revealed the selective dependence of nTiO 2 and nAl 2 O 3 toxicity on the size, concentration and chemical nature of nanoparticles. The minimal concentration causing an organism's response on nTiO 2 and nAl 2 O 3 effect depends on the type of the test- organism and the test reaction under study. We specified L(E)C 50 and acute toxicity categories for all the studied nanoparticles. We determined that nTiO 2 (Δ 50 =5 nm) belong to the category «Acute toxicity 1», nTiO 2 (A 50 =90 nm) and nAl 2 O 3 (Δ 50 =70 nm) – to the category «Acute toxicity 2», nAl 2 O 3 (Δ 50 =7 nm) – to the category «Acute toxicity 3». No acute toxicity was registered for nTiO 2 (Δ 50 =50 nm) and macro form TiO 2 . (paper)

  14. Effect of AL2O3 and TiO2 nanoparticles on aquatic organisms

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gosteva, I.; Morgalev, Yu; Morgaleva, T.; Morgalev, S.

    2015-11-01

    Environmental toxicity of aqueous disperse systems of nanoparticles of binary compounds of titanium dioxides (with particle size Δ50=5 nm, Δ50=50 nm, Δ50=90 nm), aluminum oxide alpha-forms (Δ50=7 nm and Δ50=70 nm) and macro forms (TiO2 Δ50=350 nm, Al2O3 A50=4000 nm) were studied using biological testing methods. The bioassay was performed using a set of test organisms representing the major trophic levels. We found the dependence of the toxic effect concentration degree of nTiO2 and nAl2O3 on the fluorescence of the bacterial biosensor "Ekolyum", the chemotactic response of ciliates Paramecium caudatum, the growth of unicellular algae Chlorella vulgaris Beijer and mortality of entomostracans Daphnia magna Straus. We revealed the selective dependence of nTiO2 and nAl2O3 toxicity on the size, concentration and chemical nature of nanoparticles. The minimal concentration causing an organism's response on nTiO2 and nAl2O3 effect depends on the type of the test- organism and the test reaction under study. We specified L(E)C50 and acute toxicity categories for all the studied nanoparticles. We determined that nTiO2 (Δ50=5 nm) belong to the category «Acute toxicity 1», nTiO2 (A50=90 nm) and nAl2O3 (Δ50=70 nm) - to the category «Acute toxicity 2», nAl2O3 (Δ50=7 nm) - to the category «Acute toxicity 3». No acute toxicity was registered for nTiO2 (Δ50=50 nm) and macro form TiO2.

  15. Preparation of an orthodontic bracket coated with an nitrogen-doped TiO(2-x)N(y) thin film and examination of its antimicrobial performance.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cao, Baocheng; Wang, Yuhua; Li, Na; Liu, Bin; Zhang, Yingjie

    2013-01-01

    A bracket coated with a nitrogen-doped (N-doped) TiO(2-x)N(y) thin film was prepared using the RF magnetron sputtering method. The physicochemical properties of the thin film were measured using X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, while the antimicrobial activity of the bracket against common oral pathogenic microbes was assessed on the basis of colony counts. The rate of antimicrobial activity of the bracket coated with nano-TiO(2-x)N(y) thin film against Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Actinomyces viscous, and Candida albicans was 95.19%, 91.00%, 69.44%, and 98.86%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy showed that fewer microbes adhered to the surface of this newly designed bracket than to the surface of the normal edgewise bracket. The brackets coated with the N-doped TiO(2-x)N(y) thin film showed high antimicrobial and bacterial adhesive properties against normal oral pathogenic bacterial through visible light, which is effective in prevention of enamel demineralization and gingivitis in orthodontic patients.

  16. Improved conversion efficiency of dye sensitized solar cell using Zn doped TiO_2-ZrO_2 nanocomposite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tomar, Laxmi J.; Bhatt, Piyush J.; Desai, Rahul K.; Chakrabarty, B. S.; Panchal, C. J.

    2016-01-01

    TiO_2-ZrO_2 and Zn doped TiO_2-ZrO_2 nanocomposites were prepared by hydrothermal method for dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. The structural and optical properties were investigated by X –ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-Visible spectroscopy respectively. XRD results revealed the formation of material in nano size. The average crystallite size is 22.32 nm, 17.41 nm and 6.31 nm for TiO_2, TiO_2-ZrO_2 and Zn doped TiO_2-ZrO_2 nanocomposites respectively. The optical bandgap varies from 2.04 eV to 3.75 eV. Dye sensitized solar cells were fabricated using the prepared material. Pomegranate juice was used as a sensitizer and graphite coated conducting glass plate was used as counter electrode. The I – V characteristics were recorded to measure photo response of DSSC. Photovoltaic parameter like open circuit voltage, power conversion efficiency, and fill factor were evaluated for fabricated solar cell. The power conversion efficiency of DSSC fabricated with TiO_2, TiO_2-ZrO_2 and Zn doped TiO_2-ZrO_2 nanocomposites were found 0.71%, 1.97% and 4.58% respectively.

  17. Improved conversion efficiency of dye sensitized solar cell using Zn doped TiO2-ZrO2 nanocomposite

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tomar, Laxmi J.; Bhatt, Piyush J.; Desai, Rahul K.; Chakrabarty, B. S.; Panchal, C. J.

    2016-05-01

    TiO2-ZrO2 and Zn doped TiO2-ZrO2 nanocomposites were prepared by hydrothermal method for dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. The structural and optical properties were investigated by X -ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-Visible spectroscopy respectively. XRD results revealed the formation of material in nano size. The average crystallite size is 22.32 nm, 17.41 nm and 6.31 nm for TiO2, TiO2-ZrO2 and Zn doped TiO2-ZrO2 nanocomposites respectively. The optical bandgap varies from 2.04 eV to 3.75 eV. Dye sensitized solar cells were fabricated using the prepared material. Pomegranate juice was used as a sensitizer and graphite coated conducting glass plate was used as counter electrode. The I - V characteristics were recorded to measure photo response of DSSC. Photovoltaic parameter like open circuit voltage, power conversion efficiency, and fill factor were evaluated for fabricated solar cell. The power conversion efficiency of DSSC fabricated with TiO2, TiO2-ZrO2 and Zn doped TiO2-ZrO2 nanocomposites were found 0.71%, 1.97% and 4.58% respectively.

  18. Fabrication and characterization of Ba sub x Sr sub 1 sub - sub x TiO sub 3 /YBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub x /SrTiO sub 3 structure

    CERN Document Server

    Choi, J; Park, S Y; Lee Jae Sik; No, K; Sung, T H; Park, Y

    2002-01-01

    Ba sub x Sr sub 1 sub - sub x TiO sub 3 (BST)/YBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub x (YBCO)/SrTiO sub 3 (STO) structures were deposited, and the microstructure, orientation and electrical characteristics were investigated. (00l) oriented YBCO thin films were deposited on STO substrates using pulsed laser deposition, and (h00) oriented BST thin films were deposited on YBCO/STO substrates using electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma assisted metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). A new phase was formed at the interface between YBCO and BST films and was speculated to be (Ba sub x Y sub 1 sub - sub x)(Ti sub y Y sub 1 sub - sub y)O sub 3. Ba-rich BST films showed a higher dielectric loss than Sr-rich BST films did, which indicates that Sr-rich BST films are more suited for application to microwave devices. The dielectric loss of the films was reduced as temperature decreased, which may be due to the conductivity change of YBCO film and the formation of a conduction path rather than a dielectric property change ...

  19. Effect of thermal annealing on resistance switching characteristics of Pt/ZrO2/TiN stacks

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kim, Jonggi; Lee, Kyumin; Kim, Yonjae; Na, Heedo; Ko, Dae-Hong; Sohn, Hyunchul; Lee, Sunghoon

    2013-01-01

    In this study, the effect of thermal annealing on both the physical properties and the resistive switching properties of ZrO 2 films deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) method were investigated for its potential application to non-volatile memory devices. The ZrO 2 films in the Pt/ZrO 2 /TiN structure exhibited unipolar and bipolar resistance switching behaviors depending on the nature of the bias applied to Pt top electrodes for the electro-forming process. For unipolar switching, the resistance of the high resistance state (HRS) was reduced with increasing annealing temperature, accompanied with the increase of metallic Zr in the annealed ZrO 2 films. In contrast, the HRS resistance in the bipolar switching was increased while the low resistance state (LRS) resistance was decreased with increasing annealing temperature, producing a greater change in resistance. SIMS and EDX showed that the thickness of interfacial TiO x N y layer between the ZrO 2 and the TiN bottom electrode was enlarged with annealing. The enlarged TiO x N y layer was expected to produce the reduction of LRS resistance with the increase of HRS resistance in the bipolar resistance switching. - Highlights: • Effect of thermal annealing on resistive switching of ZrO 2 was investigated. • Both unipolar and bipolar switching were shown in the Pt/ZrO 2 /TiN stack. • TiO x N y interface layer was enlarged with increasing annealing temperature. • TiO x N y interface plays an important role in resistive switching properties

  20. Optical characterization in Pb(Zr{sub 1-x} Ti{sub x}){sub 1-y} Nb{sub y} O{sub 3} ferroelectric ceramic system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Durruthy-Rodriguez, M.D. [Instituto de Cibernetica, Matematica y Fisica, CITMA, Departamento de Fisica Aplicada, La Habana (Cuba); CINVESTAV-Unidad Queretaro, IPN, Santiago de Queretaro, Queretaro (Mexico); Costa-Marrero, J.; Hernandez-Garcia, M. [Instituto de Cibernetica, Matematica y Fisica, CITMA, Departamento de Fisica Aplicada, La Habana (Cuba); Calderon-Pinar, F. [Universidad de La Habana, Laboratorio de Magnetismo, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnologia de Materiales, La Habana (Cuba); Malfatti, Celia [Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Metalurgia, Escola de Engenharia, Porto Alegre, RS (Brazil); Yanez-Limon, J.M. [CINVESTAV-Unidad Queretaro, IPN, Santiago de Queretaro, Queretaro (Mexico)

    2011-05-15

    In this work, visible photoluminescence was observed at room temperature in a sintered Pb(Zr{sub 1-x}Ti{sub x}){sub 1-y}Nb{sub y}O{sub 3} perovskite-type structure system, doped with Nb using the next excitation bands 325, 373 and 457 nm. The intensity and energy of such emissions have been studied by changing the Nb concentration (0<y<0.01) and the Ti content (x), with x=0.20,0.40,0.53,0.60 and 0.80, on both sides of the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) zone. The principal bands become visible at energies of 1.73, 2.56 and 3.35 eV. The results reveal the role of the Nb{sup 5+} ion substitutions by Zr{sup 4+} or Ti{sup 4+} ions and the symmetry presented in the rhombohedral or tetragonal side of the MPB. Raman spectra which are similar for compositions: 20/80, 40/60 and 53/47 (tetragonal phases) show nine bands, centered around 137, 194, 269, 331, 434, 550, 612, 712 and 750 cm{sup -1}. The spectra for samples 60/40 and 80/20, rhombohedral phase, show significant differences, only six bands appear, centered around 124, 209, 234, 330, 549 and 682 cm{sup -1}. In addition, optical absorption spectroscopy, structural and micro-structural measurements were carried out by using Uv-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques, respectively. The experimental results of band gap energy, e.g., in our samples are in accordance with the findings by J. Baedi et al. in the calculations of band structure, energy gap and density of states for different phases of Pb(Zr{sub 1-x} Ti{sub x})O{sub 3} using density functional theory (DFT). (orig.)

  1. Photocatalytic properties and selective antimicrobial activity of TiO2(Eu)/CuO nanocomposite

    Science.gov (United States)

    Michal, Robert; Dworniczek, Ewa; Caplovicova, Maria; Monfort, Olivier; Lianos, Panagiotis; Caplovic, Lubomir; Plesch, Gustav

    2016-05-01

    TiO2(Eu)/CuO nanocomposites were prepared by precipitation method. The anatase nanocrystallites with a size of 26 nm exhibited well crystallized and characteristical dipyramidal morphology and {1 0 1} and {0 0 1} faceting. Transmission electron microscopy photographs with atomic resolution showed that the Eu(III) dopants were bounded on surface of titania. In the composites, the CuO nanocrystals exhibiting a monoclinic tenorite structure with a size in the range from 2 to 5 nm were grafted to the surface of titania. The influence of copper(II) oxide led to distinct selectivity in the photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of the investigated TiO2(Eu)/CuO nanocomposites. While the presence of CuO nanocrystals strongly increased the photocatalytic production of hydrogen by ethanol reforming, it decreased the activity in photoinduced total mineralization of phenol comparing with non-modified TiO2(Eu). In investigated TiO2(Eu)/CuO powders, the photoinduced antimicrobial activity against membranes of Enterococcus species was influenced by the selective binding of CuO to the surface of the microorganism leading to distinct selectivity in their action. The activity against Enterococcus faecalis was higher than against Enterococcus faecium.

  2. Formation of textured microstructure by mist deposition of TiO2 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qin, Gang; Watanabe, Akira

    2013-01-01

    Unique and various textured TiO 2 films have been easily fabricated by mist deposition method on silicon and glass substrates with mild preparation conditions. Two kinds of TiO 2 nanoparticle with different shape, size, and crystal form were used as starting material, which resulted in a simple preparation process under low temperature and ordinary pressure. It was easy to control the thickness, morphology, and roughness of textured TiO 2 film by adjusting the mist deposition conditions such as deposition time, temperature, and the shape and size of nanoparticles. The optical properties of textured TiO 2 films before and after spin coating of Ag nanoparticles were investigated. The angular dependence of the reflectance was obviously reduced by textured TiO 2 surface and such effect was enhanced by Ag nanoparticles coating. A broad plasmon band of Ag grains was observed in the absorption spectrum of the textured Ag nanoparticle-coated TiO 2 film

  3. Structure and Properties of La2O3-TiO2 Nanocomposite Films for Biomedical Applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Lin; Sun, Zhi-Hua; Yu, Feng-Mei; Chen, Hong-Bin

    2011-01-01

    The hemocompatibility of La2O3-doped TiO2 films with different concentration prepared by radio frequency (RF) sputtering was studied. The microstructures and blood compatibility of TiO2 films were investigated by scan electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV-visible optical absorption spectroscopy, respectively. With the increasing of the La2O3 concentrations, the TiO2 films become smooth, and the grain size becomes smaller. Meanwhile, the band gap of the samples increases from 2.85 to 3.3 eV with increasing of the La2O3 content in TiO2 films from 0 to 3.64%. La2O3-doped TiO2 films exhibit n-type semiconductor properties due to the existence of Ti2+ and Ti3+. The mechanism of hemocompatibility of TiO2 film doped with La2O3 was analyzed and discussed. PMID:22162671

  4. Structural, electronic and vibrational properties of small Ga{sub x}N{sub y} (x+y = 2-5) nanoclusters: a B3LYP-DFT study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yadav, P S; Yadav, R K; Agrawal, B K [Physics Department, Allahabad University, Allahabad-211002 (India)

    2007-02-21

    An ab initio study of the stability, structural and electronic properties has been made for 49 gallium nitride nanoclusters, Ga{sub x}N{sub y} (x+y = 2-5). Among the various configurations corresponding to a fixed x+y = n value, the configuration possessing the maximum value of binding energy (BE) is named as the most stable structure. The vibrational and optical properties have been investigated only for the most stable structures. A B3LYP-DFT/6-311G(3df) method has been employed to optimize the geometries of the nanoclusters fully. The binding energies (BEs), highest-occupied and lowest-unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) gaps and the bond lengths have been obtained for all the clusters. We have considered the zero-point energy (ZPE) corrections ignored by the earlier workers. The adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials (IPs) and electron affinities (EAs), charge on atoms, dipole moments, vibrational frequencies, infrared intensities (IR Int.), relative infrared intensities (Rel. IR Int.) and Raman scattering activities have been investigated for the most stable structures. The configurations containing the N atoms in majority are seen to be the most stable structures. The strong N-N bond has an important role in stabilizing the clusters. For clusters containing one Ga atom and all the others as N atoms, the BE increases monotonically with the number of the N atoms. The HOMO-LUMO gap and IP fluctuate with the cluster size n, having larger values for the clusters containing odd number of N atoms. On the other hand, the EA decreases with the cluster size up to n = 3, and shows slow fluctuations thereafter for the larger clusters. In general, the adiabatic IP (EA) is smaller (greater) than the vertical IP (EA) because of the lower energies of the most stable ground state of the cationic (anionic) clusters. The optical absorption spectrum or electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) is unique for every cluster, and may be used to characterize a specific cluster

  5. [Study of relationship between powder-size gradation and mechanical properties of Zirconia toughened glass infiltrated nanometer-ceramic composite powder].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chai, Feng; Xu, Ling; Liao, Yun-mao; Chao, Yong-lie

    2003-07-01

    The fabrication of all-ceramic dental restorations is challenged by ceramics' relatively low flexural strength and intrinsic poor resistance to fracture. This paper aimed at investigating the relationships between powder-size gradation and mechanical properties of Zirconia toughened glass infiltrated nanometer-ceramic composite (Al(2)O(3)-nZrO(2)). Al(2)O(3)-nZrO(2) ceramics powder (W) was processed by combination methods of chemical co-precipitation and ball milling with addition of different powder-sized ZrO(2). Field-emission scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the particle size distribution and characterize the particle morphology of powders. The matrix compacts were made by slip-casting technique and sintered to 1,450 degrees C and flexural strength and the fracture toughness of them were measured. 1. The particle distribution of Al(2)O(3)-nZrO(2) ceramics powder ranges from 0.02 - 3.5 micro m and among them the superfine particles almost accounted for 20%. 2. The ceramic matrix samples with addition of nZrO(2) (W) showed much higher flexural strength (115.434 +/- 5.319) MPa and fracture toughness (2.04 +/- 0.10) MPa m(1/2) than those of pure Al(2)O(3) ceramics (62.763 +/- 7.220 MPa; 1.16 +/- 0.02 MPa m(1/2)). The particle size of additive ZrO(2) may impose influences on mechanical properties of Al(2)O(3)-nZrO(2) ceramics matrix. Good homogeneity and reasonable powder-size gradation of ceramic powder can improve the mechanical properties of material.

  6. Effect of TiCl4 treatment on the refractive index of nanoporous TiO2 films

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lee, Jeeyoung; Lee, Myeongkyu

    2015-12-01

    We investigate the effect of TiCl4 treatment on the refractive index of a nanoporous TiO2 film. A nanoparticulate TiO2 film prepared on a glass substrate was immersed in a TiCl4 aqueous solution. The subsequent reaction of TiCl4 with H2O produces TiO2 and thus modifies the density and the refractive index of the film. With increasing TiCl4 concentration, the refractive index initially increased and then declined after being maximized (n = 2.02 at 633 nm) at 0.08 M concentration. A refractive index change as large as 0.45 could be obtained with the TiCl4 treatment, making it possible to achieve diffraction efficiency exceeding 80% in a diffraction grating-embedded TiO2 film. For high TiCl4 concentrations of 0.32 M and 0.64 M, the refractive index remained nearly unchanged. This was attributed to the limited permeability of high-viscosity TiCl4 solutions into the nanoporous films. The measured pore size distributions were in good agreement with the results of a diffraction analysis and refractive index measurement.

  7. Fabrication of Metal Nanoparticle Arrays in the ZrO2(Y, HfO2(Y, and GeOx Films by Magnetron Sputtering

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Oleg Gorshkov

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available The single sheet arrays of Au nanoparticles (NPs embedded into the ZrO2(Y, HfO2(Y, and GeOx (x≈2 films have been fabricated by the alternating deposition of the nanometer-thick dielectric and metal films using Magnetron Sputtering followed by annealing. The structure and optical properties of the NP arrays have been studied, subject to the fabrication technology parameters. The possibility of fabricating dense single sheet Au NP arrays in the matrices listed above with controlled NP sizes (within 1 to 3 nm and surface density has been demonstrated. A red shift of the plasmonic optical absorption peak in the optical transmission spectra of the nanocomposite films (in the wavelength band of 500 to 650 nm has been observed. The effect was attributed to the excitation of the collective surface plasmon-polaritons in the dense Au NP arrays. The nanocomposite films fabricated in the present study can find various applications in nanoelectronics (e.g., single electronics, nonvolatile memory devices, integrated optics, and plasmonics.

  8. Recubrimientos protectores de TiN y AIN: comportamiento frente a temperatura

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Auger, M. A.

    2006-04-01

    Full Text Available The use of ceramic materials like titanium and aluminium nitrides have experienced a great improvement in the last years due to the variety of applications they show. The use as protective coatings on industrial tools is one important application with very favorable results for the moment, as it is the use as coating molds used for different elements fabrication. One of the mostly often used techniques to deposit protective coatings is the sputtering technique, which has been used in this work. In the present study we have analysed structural and mechanical properties of TiN and AlN thin films, using X-Ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, nanoindentation and pin-on-disk techniques. Thermal treatments have been applied on the mentioned films, applying three different temperature values: 750oC, 850oC y 950oC. Changes in their properties before and after the treatments have been observed. TiN layers show a thermal resistance around 750oC. The thermal resistance for AlN layers is around 850oC, being also observed an improvement in their properties when applying 850ºC of thermal treatment.

    La utilización de materiales cerámicos como el nitruro de titanio o de aluminio ha experimentado una gran popularización en los últimos años gracias a su gran variedad de aplicaciones. Una importante aplicación que cuenta hasta el momento con resultados muy favorables es la de su uso como recubrimientos protectores de herramientas industriales, así como de moldes empleados en la fabricación de diferentes elementos. Una de las técnicas más utilizadas en la obtención de recubrimientos protectores es la técnica de sputtering, utilizada en este trabajo. En el presente estudio se han analizado las propiedades estructurales y mecánicas de láminas delgadas de TiN y AlN mediante las técnicas de difracción de rayos X, microscopía electrónica de barrido, nanoindentación y pin-on-disk. Dichas capas han sido sometidas a un tratamiento t

  9. 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.

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

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

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

    2007-01-01

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

  11. Positron annihilation 2D-ACAR study of semi-coherent Li nanoclusters in MgO(1 0 0) and MgO(1 1 0)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

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

    2002-01-01

    Depth selective positron annihilation two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation (2D-ACAR) is used to determine the electronic structure of Li nanoclusters formed by implantation of 10 16 cm -2 6 Li ions (with an energy of 30 keV) in MgO(1 0 0) and (1 1 0) crystals, and subsequently annealed at 950 K. The 2D-ACAR spectra of Li-implanted MgO obtained with 4 keV positrons reveal the semi-coherent ordering state of the embedded metallic Li nanoclusters. The results agree with ab initio Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker calculations

  12. Positron annihilation 2D-ACAR study of semi-coherent Li nanoclusters in MgO(1 0 0) and MgO(1 1 0)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Falub, C.V. E-mail: c.falub@iri.tudelft.nl; Mijnarends, P.E.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Huis, M.A. van; Veen, A. van; Schut, H

    2002-05-01

    Depth selective positron annihilation two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation (2D-ACAR) is used to determine the electronic structure of Li nanoclusters formed by implantation of 10{sup 16} cm{sup -2} {sup 6}Li ions (with an energy of 30 keV) in MgO(1 0 0) and (1 1 0) crystals, and subsequently annealed at 950 K. The 2D-ACAR spectra of Li-implanted MgO obtained with 4 keV positrons reveal the semi-coherent ordering state of the embedded metallic Li nanoclusters. The results agree with ab initio Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker calculations.

  13. Positron annihilation 2D-ACAR study of semi-coherent Li nanoclusters in MgO( 1 0 0 ) and MgO( 1 1 0 )

    Science.gov (United States)

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

    2002-05-01

    Depth selective positron annihilation two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation (2D-ACAR) is used to determine the electronic structure of Li nanoclusters formed by implantation of 10 16 cm -26Li ions (with an energy of 30 keV) in MgO(1 0 0) and (1 1 0) crystals, and subsequently annealed at 950 K. The 2D-ACAR spectra of Li-implanted MgO obtained with 4 keV positrons reveal the semi-coherent ordering state of the embedded metallic Li nanoclusters. The results agree with ab initio Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker calculations.

  14. Red emitting phosphors of Eu{sup 3+} doped Na{sub 2}Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} (Ln = Gd, Y) for white light emitting diodes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Niumiao [National Key Laboratory of Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials Culture Base in Shaanxi Province, National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Institute of Photonics & Photon-Technology, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Guo, Chongfeng, E-mail: guocf@nwu.edu.cn [National Key Laboratory of Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials Culture Base in Shaanxi Province, National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Institute of Photonics & Photon-Technology, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Yin, Luqiao; Zhang, Jianhua [Key Laboratory of Advanced Display and System Applications (Shanghai University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200072 (China); Wu, Mingmei, E-mail: ceswmm@mail.sysu.edu.cn [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275 (China)

    2015-06-25

    Highlights: • Layered red phosphors Na{sub 2}Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} (Ln = Gd, Y):Eu{sup 3+} were prepared. • The synthesis parameters of phosphors were optimized. • PL and thermal stability of the samples were investigated. • LED devices were also fabricated including the present red phosphor. - Abstract: A series of Eu{sup 3+} doped Na{sub 2}Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} (Ln = Gd, Y) red-emitting phosphors for application in ultraviolet based light emitting diodes (LEDs) were successfully synthesized by a modified sol–gel method. Their structure and luminescent properties were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and emission (PL) spectra and absorption spectra, according to these results the optimal compositions and synthesis parameters were determined. In addition, the thermal stabilities of the phosphors were investigated according to the temperature-dependent PL spectra. The red and white-LEDs (W-LEDs) comprising the Na{sub 2}Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10}:Eu{sup 3+} (Ln = Gd, Y) red emitting phosphors were fabricated with a near-ultraviolet (n-UV) chip. In comparison with Na{sub 2}Y{sub 1.4}Eu{sub 0.6}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10}, the Na{sub 2}Gd{sub 0.6}Eu{sub 1.4}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} phosphor offers higher brightness, quantum efficiency, and excellent thermal stability. W-LEDs comprising Na{sub 2}Gd{sub 0.6}Eu{sub 1.4}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} showed bright white emission with a color rendering index (Ra) of 82, a color temperature of 2151 K, and Commission Internationale de I’Eclairage (CIE) color coordinates of (0.34, 0.37). The phosphor Na{sub 2}Gd{sub 0.6}Eu{sub 1.4}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 10} is more suitable candidate for application in LEDs.

  15. Electrochemical Characterization of TiO 2 Blocking Layers for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

    KAUST Repository

    Kavan, Ladislav

    2014-07-31

    Thin compact layers of TiO2 are grown by thermal oxidation of Ti, by spray pyrolysis, by electrochemical deposition, and by atomic layer deposition. These layers are used in dye-sensitized solar cells to prevent recombination of electrons from the substrate (FTO or Ti) with the hole-conducting medium at this interface. The quality of blocking is evaluated electrochemically by methylviologen, ferro/ferricyanide, and spiro-OMeTAD as the model redox probes. Two types of pinholes in the blocking layers are classified, and their effective area is quantified. Frequency-independent Mott-Schottky plots are fitted from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Certain films of the thicknesses of several nanometers allow distinguishing the depletion layer formation both in the TiO2 film and in the FTO substrate underneath the titania film. The excellent blocking function of thermally oxidized Ti, electrodeposited film (60 nm), and atomic-layer-deposited films (>6 nm) is documented by the relative pinhole area of less than 1%. However, the blocking behavior of electrodeposited and atomic-layer-deposited films is strongly reduced upon calcination at 500 °C. The blocking function of spray-pyrolyzed films is less good but also less sensitive to calcination. The thermally oxidized Ti is well blocking and insensitive to calcination. © 2014 American Chemical Society.

  16. Síntesis y caracterización de fotocatalizadores basados en TiO2 : estudios de la degradación de los herbicidas ácido 2,4-Diclorofenoxiacético y bentazona mediante fotocatálisis heterogénea a escala de laboratorio y planta piloto solar

    OpenAIRE

    Seck, Elhadji Idrissa

    2012-01-01

    Programa de doctorado: Ingeniería ambiental y desalinización [ES] La presente tesis doctoral, que se encuadra dentro del proyecto europeo CLEAN WATER, se orienta al desarrollo de materiales basados en TiO2 y la evaluación de su aplicabilidad en el tratamiento fotocatalítico de aguas contaminadas por los herbicidas ácido 2,4-D y bentazona. Con ese objetivo global, se han realizado los siguientes estudios: 1) Sínteis y caracterización de fotocatalizadoes basados en TiO2 por el método sol-gel...

  17. The Effect of Process Parameters on the Synthesis of Ti and TiO2 Nanoparticles Producted by Electromagnetic Levitational Gas Condensation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maryam Moazeni

    2012-10-01

    Full Text Available The nanoparticles of Ti and TiO2 have attracted extensive research interest because of their diverse applications in, for instance, catalysis, energy conversion, pigment and cosmetic manufacturing and biomedical engineering. Through this project, a one-step bulk synthesis method of electromagnetic levitational gas condensation (ELGC was utilized for the synthesis of monodispersed and crystalline Ti and TiO2 nanoparticles. Within the process, the Ti vapours ascending from the high temperature levitated droplet were condensed by an argon gas stream under atmospheric pressure. The TiO2 nanoparticles were produced by simultaneous injection of argon and oxygen into the reactor. The effects of flow rate of the condensing and oxidizing gases on the size and the size distribution of the nanoparticles were investigated. The particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM, X-ray diffraction (XRD and image analysis. The process parameters for the synthesis of the crystalline Ti and TiO2 nanoparticles were determined.

  18. Crystal structure mediates mode of cell death in TiO{sub 2} nanotoxicity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Braydich-Stolle, Laura K.; Schaeublin, Nicole M.; Murdock, Richard C. [Wright-Patterson AFB, Applied Biotechnology Branch, Human Effectiveness Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory (United States); Jiang, Jingkun; Biswas, Pratim [Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering (United States); Schlager, John J.; Hussain, Saber M., E-mail: Saber.Hussain@wpafb.af.mi [Wright-Patterson AFB, Applied Biotechnology Branch, Human Effectiveness Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory (United States)

    2009-08-15

    Certain properties that nanoparticles possess differentiate them from their bulk counterparts, and these characteristics must be evaluated prior to nanoparticle studies and include: size, shape, dispersion, physical and chemical properties, surface area, and surface chemistry. Early nanotoxicity studies evaluating TiO{sub 2} have yielded conflicting data which identify either size or crystal structure as the mediating property for nano-TiO{sub 2} toxicity. However, it is important to note that none of these studies examined size with the crystal structure composition controlled for or examined crystal structure while controlling the nanoparticle size. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of size and crystal structure in TiO{sub 2} nanotoxicity while controlling for as many other nanoproperties as possible using the HEL-30 mouse keratinocyte cell line as a model for dermal exposure. In the size-dependent studies, all the nanoparticles are 100% anatase, and aggregate sizes were determined in order to take into account the effect of agglomeration on size-dependent toxicity. In addition, varying crystal structures were assessed while the size of the nanoparticles was controlled. We were able to identify that both size and crystal structure contribute to cytotoxicity and that the mechanism of cell death varies based on crystal structure. The 100% anatase TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles, regardless of size, induced cell necrosis, while the rutile TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles initiated apoptosis through formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

  19. Preparation of brookite TiO2 nanoparticles with small sizes and the improved photovoltaic performance of brookite-based dye-sensitized solar cells.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xu, Jinlei; Wu, Shufang; Jin, Jingpeng; Peng, Tianyou

    2016-11-10

    Brookite TiO 2 nanoparticles with small sizes (hereafter denoted as BTP particles) were synthesized through the hydrothermal treatment of TiCl 4 solution with Pb(NO 3 ) 2 as an additive. The obtained BTP particles have a large specific surface area (∼122.2 m 2 g -1 ) and relatively uniform particle sizes (∼10 nm) with the coexistence of a small quantity of nanorods with a length of ∼100 nm. When used as a photoanode material for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), the BTP particles show a much higher dye-loading content than the brookite TiO 2 quasi nanocubes (denoted as BTN particles) with a mean size of ∼50 nm and a specific surface area of ∼34.2 m 2 g -1 that were prepared through a similar hydrothermal process but without the addition of Pb(NO 3 ) 2 . The fabricated BTP film-based solar cell with an optimized film thickness gives a conversion efficiency up to 6.36% with a 74% improvement when compared to the BTN film-based one (3.65%) under AM 1.5G one sun irradiation, while the corresponding bilayer brookite-based solar cell by using brookite TiO 2 submicrometer particles as an overlayer of the BTP film displays a significantly enhanced efficiency of 7.64%. Both of them exceed the current record (5.97%) for the conversion efficiency of pure brookite-based DSSCs reported in the literature. The present results not only demonstrate a really simple synthesis of brookite TiO 2 nanoparticles with both high phase purity and a large surface area, but also offer an efficient approach to improve the photovoltaic performance of brookite-based solar cells by offsetting brookite's inherent shortages such as lower dye-loading and poor conductivity as compared to anatase.

  20. Changes in local surface structure and Sr depletion in Fe-implanted SrTiO{sub 3} (001)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lobacheva, O., E-mail: olobache@gmail.com [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7 (Canada); Yiu, Y.M. [Department of Chemistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7 (Canada); Chen, N. [Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X4 (Canada); Sham, T.K.; Goncharova, L.V. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7 (Canada); Department of Chemistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7 (Canada)

    2017-01-30

    Highlights: • Fe ion implantation of SrTiO{sub 3} and post-implantation results in formation of Sr{sub 1-y}Ti{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x+y}O{sub 3-δ} phase. • In Sr{sub 1-y}Ti{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x+y}O{sub 3-δ} phase, Fe assumes Fe{sup 3+} oxidation state in the bulk and Fe{sup 2+} oxidation state in the near surface area. • FEFF9 calculations indicate that Fe ions can substitute both Ti and Sr sites. • Formation of Sr{sub 1-y}Ti{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x+y}O{sub 3-δ} phase is accompanied by Sr depletion in the near surface region. - Abstract: Local surface structure of single crystal strontium titanate SrTiO{sub 3} (001) samples implanted with Fe in the range of concentrations between 2 × 10{sup 14} to 2 × 10{sup 16} Fe/cm{sup 2} at 30 keV has been investigated. In order to facilitate Fe substitution (doping), implanted samples were annealed in oxygen at 350 °C. Sr depletion was observed from the near-surface layers impacted by the ion-implantation process, as revealed by Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray Absorption Near Edge Spectroscopy (XANES), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Hydrocarbon contaminations on the surface may contribute to the mechanisms of Sr depletion, which have important implications for Sr(Ti{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x})O{sub 3-δ} materials in gas sensing applications.

  1. Synthesis and characterization of CeO2-TiO2-Pr6O11 solid solutions for environmentally benign nontoxic red pigments

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    George, Giable; Rao, Padala Prabhakar; Reddy, Mundlapudi Lakshmipathi

    2006-01-01

    New inorganic pigments Ce 1-(x+y) Ti x Pr y O 2 (x ranges from 0.05 to 0.195 and y ranges from 0.005 to 0.15) based on CeO 2 -TiO 2 -Pr 6 O 11 solid solutions have been synthesized by solid-state route with a goal of preparing environmentally secure red colorants. Characterizations using XRD, UV-vis spectroscopy and CIE 1976 color coordinates assessment reveals the formation of pigments displaying colors ranging from brick red to dark brown. The coloring mechanism is based on the introduction of additional electronic level of energy in the cerianite forbidden band from the unpaired 4f electron of lanthanide ion. (author)

  2. Hierarchical self-assembly of magnetic nanoclusters for theranostics: Tunable size, enhanced magnetic resonance imagability, and controlled and targeted drug delivery.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nguyen, Dai Hai; Lee, Jung Seok; Choi, Jong Hoon; Park, Kyung Min; Lee, Yunki; Park, Ki Dong

    2016-04-15

    Nanoparticle-based imaging and therapy are of interest for theranostic nanomedicine. In particular, superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted much attention in cancer imaging, diagnostics, and treatment because of their superior imagability and biocompatibility (approved by the Food and Drug Administration). Here, we developed SPIO nanoparticles (NPs) that self-assembled into magnetic nanoclusters (SAMNs) in aqueous environments as a theranostic nano-system. To generate multi-functional SPIO NPs, we covalently conjugated β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to SPIO NPs using metal-adhesive dopamine groups. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and paclitaxel (PTX) were hosted in the β-CD cavity through high affinity complexation. The core-shell structure of the magnetic nanoclusters was elucidated based on the condensed SPIO core and a PEG shell using electron microscopy and the composition was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Our results indicate that nanocluster size could be readily controlled by changing the SPIO/PEG ratio in the assemblies. Interestingly, we observed a significant enhancement in magnetic resonance contrast due to the large cluster size and dense iron oxide core. In addition, tethering a tumor-targeting peptide to the SAMNs enhanced their uptake into tumor cells. PTX was efficiently loaded into β-CDs and released in a controlled manner when exposed to competitive guest molecules. These results strongly indicate that the SAMNs developed in this study possess great potential for application in image-guided cancer chemotherapy. In this study, we developed multi-functional SPIO NPs that self-assembled into magnetic nanoclusters (SAMNs) in aqueous conditions as a theranostic nano-system. The beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was immobilized on the surfaces of SPIO NPs and RGD-conjugated polyethylene glycol (PEG) and paclitaxel (PTX) were hosted in the β-CD cavity through high affinity complexation. We found that nanocluster size could be

  3. Yttrium-substituted nanocrystalline TiO 2 photoanodes for perovskite based heterojunction solar cells

    KAUST Repository

    Qin, Peng; Domanski, Anna L.; Chandiran, Aravind Kumar; Berger, Rü diger; Butt, Hans-Jü rgen; Dar, M. Ibrahim; Moehl, Thomas; Tetreault, Nicolas; Gao, Peng; Ahmad, Shahzada; Nazeeruddin, Mohammad K.; Grä tzel, Michael

    2014-01-01

    We report the use of Y3+-substituted TiO2 (0.5%Y-TiO2) in solid-state mesoscopic solar cells, consisting of CH3NH3PbI3 as the light harvester and spiro-OMeTAD as the hole transport material. A power conversion efficiency of 11.2% under simulated AM 1.5 full sun illumination was measured. A 15% improvement in the short-circuit current density was obtained compared with pure TiO2, due to the effect of Y3+ on the dimensions of perovskite nanoparticles formed on the semiconductor surface, showing that the surface modification of the semiconductor is an effective way to improve the light harvesters' morphology and electron transfer properties in the solid-state mesoscopic solar cells. © 2013 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

  4. Yttrium-substituted nanocrystalline TiO 2 photoanodes for perovskite based heterojunction solar cells

    KAUST Repository

    Qin, Peng

    2014-01-01

    We report the use of Y3+-substituted TiO2 (0.5%Y-TiO2) in solid-state mesoscopic solar cells, consisting of CH3NH3PbI3 as the light harvester and spiro-OMeTAD as the hole transport material. A power conversion efficiency of 11.2% under simulated AM 1.5 full sun illumination was measured. A 15% improvement in the short-circuit current density was obtained compared with pure TiO2, due to the effect of Y3+ on the dimensions of perovskite nanoparticles formed on the semiconductor surface, showing that the surface modification of the semiconductor is an effective way to improve the light harvesters\\' morphology and electron transfer properties in the solid-state mesoscopic solar cells. © 2013 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

  5. Promotion of Phenol Photodecomposition over TiO2 Using Au, Pd, and AuPd Nanoparticles

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Su, Ren; Tiruvalam, Ramchandra; He, Qian

    2012-01-01

    Noble metal nanoparticles (Au, Pd, AuPd alloys) with a narrow size distribution supported on nanocrystalline TiO2 (M/TiO2) have been synthesized via a sol-immobilization route. The effect of metal identity and size on the photocatalytic performance of M/TiO2 has been systematically investigated u...

  6. Photocatalytic H{sub 2} production from water splitting under visible light irradiation using Eosin Y-sensitized mesoporous-assembled Pt/TiO{sub 2} nanocrystal photocatalyst

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sreethawong, Thammanoon; Chavadej, Sumaeth [The Petroleum and Petrochemical College, Chulalongkorn University, Soi Chula 12, Phyathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 (Thailand); Center for Petroleum, Petrochemicals, and Advanced Materials, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330 (Thailand); Junbua, Chompoonuch [The Petroleum and Petrochemical College, Chulalongkorn University, Soi Chula 12, Phyathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 (Thailand)

    2009-05-15

    Sensitized photocatalytic production of hydrogen from water splitting is investigated under visible light irradiation over mesoporous-assembled titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) nanocrystal photocatalysts, without and with Pt loading. The photocatalysts are synthesized by a sol-gel process with the aid of a structure-directing surfactant and are characterized by N{sub 2} adsorption-desorption analysis, X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. The dependence of hydrogen production on the type of TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst (synthesized mesoporous-assembled and commercial non-mesoporous-assembled TiO{sub 2} without and with Pt loading), the calcination temperature of the synthesized photocatalyst, the sensitizer (Eosin Y) concentration, the electron donor (diethanolamine) concentration, the photocatalyst dosage and the initial solution pH is systematically studied. The results show that in the presence of the Eosin Y sensitizer, the Pt-loaded mesoporous-assembled TiO{sub 2} synthesized by a single-step sol-gel process and calcined at 500 C exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production from a 30 vol.% diethanolamine aqueous solution with dissolved 2 mM Eosin Y. Moreover, the optimum photocatalyst dosage and initial solution pH for the maximum photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production are 3.33 g dm{sup -3} and 11.5, respectively. (author)

  7. Suppressing the Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2 Nanoparticles by Extremely Thin Al2O3 Films Grown by Gas-Phase Deposition at Ambient Conditions

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jing Guo

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available This work investigated the suppression of photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide (TiO2 pigment powders by extremely thin aluminum oxide (Al2O3 films deposited via an atomic-layer-deposition-type process using trimethylaluminum (TMA and H2O as precursors. The deposition was performed on multiple grams of TiO2 powder at room temperature and atmospheric pressure in a fluidized bed reactor, resulting in the growth of uniform and conformal Al2O3 films with thickness control at sub-nanometer level. The as-deposited Al2O3 films exhibited excellent photocatalytic suppression ability. Accordingly, an Al2O3 layer with a thickness of 1 nm could efficiently suppress the photocatalytic activities of rutile, anatase, and P25 TiO2 nanoparticles without affecting their bulk optical properties. In addition, the influence of high-temperature annealing on the properties of the Al2O3 layers was investigated, revealing the possibility of achieving porous Al2O3 layers. Our approach demonstrated a fast, efficient, and simple route to coating Al2O3 films on TiO2 pigment powders at the multigram scale, and showed great potential for large-scale production development.

  8. Factors affecting color strength of printing on film-coated tablets by UV laser irradiation: TiO2 particle size, crystal structure, or concentration in the film, and the irradiated UV laser power.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hosokawa, Akihiro; Kato, Yoshiteru

    2011-08-01

    The purpose of this article is to study factors affecting color strength of printing on film-coated tablets by ultraviolet (UV) laser irradiation: particle size, crystal structure, or concentration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) in film, and irradiated UV laser power. Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose films containing 4.0% of TiO2, of which BET particle sizes were ranging from 126.1 to 219.8 nm, were irradiated 3.14W of UV laser at a wavelength 355 nm to study effects of TiO2 particle size and crystal structure on the printing. The films containing TiO2 concentration ranging from 1.0 to 7.7% were irradiated 3.14 or 5.39W of the UV laser to study effect of TiO2 concentration on the printing. The film containing 4.0% of TiO2, was irradiated the UV laser up to 6.42W to study effect of the UV laser power on the printing. The color strength of the printed films was estimated by a spectrophotometer as total color difference (dE). Particle size, crystal structure, and concentration of TiO2 in the films did not affect the printing. In the relationship between the irradiated UV laser power and dE, there found an inflection point (1.6W). When the UV laser power was below 1.6W, the films were not printed. When it was beyond the point, total color difference increased linearly in proportion with the irradiated laser power. The color strength of the printing on film was not changed by TiO2 particle size, crystal structure, and concentration, but could be controlled by regulating the irradiated UV laser power beyond the inflection point.

  9. Au Sub-Nanoclusters on TiO2 toward Highly Efficient and Selective Electrocatalyst for N2 Conversion to NH3 at Ambient Conditions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shi, Miao-Miao; Bao, Di; Wulan, Ba-Ri; Li, Yong-He; Zhang, Yue-Fei; Yan, Jun-Min; Jiang, Qing

    2017-05-01

    As the NN bond in N 2 is one of the strongest bonds in chemistry, the fixation of N 2 to ammonia is a kinetically complex and energetically challenging reaction and, up to now, its synthesis is still heavily relying on energy and capital intensive Haber-Bosch process (150-350 atm, 350-550 °C), wherein the input of H 2 and energy are largely derived from fossil fuels and thus result in large amount of CO 2 emission. In this paper, it is demonstrated that by using Au sub-nanoclusters (≈0.5 nm ) embedded on TiO 2 (Au loading is 1.542 wt%), the electrocatalytic N 2 reduction reaction (NRR) is indeed possible at ambient condition. Unexpectedly, NRR with very high and stable production yield (NH 3 : 21.4 µg h -1 mg -1 cat. , Faradaic efficiency: 8.11%) and good selectivity is achieved at -0.2 V versus RHE, which is much higher than that of the best results for N 2 fixation under ambient conditions, and even comparable to the yield and activation energy under high temperatures and/or pressures. As isolated precious metal active centers dispersed onto oxide supports provide a well-defined system, the special structure of atomic Au cluster would promote other important reactions besides NRR for water splitting, fuel cells, and other electrochemical devices. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  10. The effect of B-site substitution on structural transformation and ionic conductivity in Ho2(ZryTi1−y)2O7

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shafique, Muhammad; Kennedy, Brenden J.; Iqbal, Yaseen; Ubic, Rick

    2016-01-01

    Compounds in the pyrochlore system Ho 2 (Zr y Ti 1−y ) 2 O 7 exhibit an order-disorder transition from pyrochlore to a defect-fluorite type structure. Compositions in this system were prepared via mechanical milling, followed by a two-step sintering process. Structural characterization was carried out via Rietveld refinements using neutron powder diffraction data, supported by X-ray diffraction to determine the phase and location of the pyrochlore-fluorite transformation. Unit-cell parameters were determined for the whole series using Rietveld refinements as well as the Nelson–Riley function. The neutron refinement results confirmed that the cation disorder was independent of the anion Frenkel disorder. The relation between the x-parameter in the oxygen 48f position and anion Frenkel disorder was found to be linear for the pyrochlore structure. The ionic conductivity studies were undertaken via AC impedance analysis to determine the electronic behaviour and its relation to the structural change in the temperature range 300°C–700 °C. The trends in ionic conductivity and activation energy were explained structurally via neutron powder diffraction and X-ray diffraction data. The pyrochlore-fluorite boundary composition (at y = 0.5) exhibited the lowest activation energy and highest ionic conductivity. - Highlights: • Ho 2 (Zr y Ti 1-y ) 2 O 7 structure changed from ordered pyrochlore to defect-fluorite at y = 0.6. • Ho 2 (Zr 0.5 Ti 0.5 ) 2 O 7 exhibited high ionic conductivity and low activation energy. • Doping improved stability in ionic conductivity behaviour at lower temperature.

  11. Comparative study of nano-sized particles CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} effects on superconducting properties of Y-123 and Y-358

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Slimani, Y.; Hannachi, E.; Ben Salem, M.K.; Hamrita, A. [Laboratory of Physics of Materials-Structures and Properties, Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021 Zarzouna (Tunisia); Varilci, A. [Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Physics, Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14280 Bolu (Turkey); Dachraoui, W. [CINaM-CNRS, Luminy Campus, 13288 Marseille (France); Ben Salem, M., E-mail: salemwiem2005@yahoo.fr [Laboratory of Physics of Materials-Structures and Properties, Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021 Zarzouna (Tunisia); Ben Azzouz, F. [Laboratory of Physics of Materials-Structures and Properties, Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, 7021 Zarzouna (Tunisia); College of Sciences-Girls, Department of Physics, University of Dammam (Saudi Arabia)

    2014-10-01

    The effects of nano-sized CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles (10 nm) addition on the structural and the normal state resistivity of YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7} (noted Y-123) and Y{sub 3}Ba{sub 5}Cu{sub 8}O{sub 18} (noted Y-358) polycrystalline were systematically studied. Samples were synthesized in oxygen atmosphere using a standard solid state reaction technique by adding CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} up to 2 wt%. Phases, microstructure and superconductivity have been systematically investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electrical measurements ρ(T). XRD results reveal that the lattice parameters change for both Y-123 and Y-358 phases. SEM observations reveal that the grain size is reduced with increasing the content of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. The measurements for the resistivity dependence of temperature show that the depression in superconducting temperature is more pronounced for CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} addition in Y-358 compound than in Y-123 one. These results may be attributed to the existence of much more disorder due to a greater number of Cu sites to be substituted by Fe and Co in Y-358 compared to Y-123.

  12. Structural and vibrational investigations of Nb-doped TiO2 thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Uyanga, E.; Gibaud, A.; Daniel, P.; Sangaa, D.; Sevjidsuren, G.; Altantsog, P.; Beuvier, T.; Lee, Chih Hao; Balagurov, A.M.

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • We studied the evolutions of structure for TiO 2 thin film as changes with Nb doping and temperatures. • Up to 800 °C, the grain size of Nb 0.1 Ti 0.9 O 2 is smaller than for pure TiO 2 because doped Nb hinders the growth of the TiO 2 grains. • There was no formation of the rutile phase at high temperature. • Nb doped TiO 2 films have high electron densities at 400–700 °C. • Nb dope extends the absorbance spectra of TiO 2 which leads to the band gap reduce. - Abstract: Acid-catalyzed sol–gel and spin-coating methods were used to prepare Nb-doped TiO 2 thin film. In this work, we studied the effect of niobium doping on the structure, surface, and absorption properties of TiO 2 by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray reflectometry (XRR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman, and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy at various annealing temperatures. EDX spectra show that the Nb:Ti atomic ratios of the niobium-doped titania films are in good agreement with the nominal values (5 and 10%). XPS results suggest that charge compensation is achieved by the formation of Ti vacancies. Specific niobium phases are not observed, thus confirming that niobium is well incorporated into the titania crystal lattice. Thin films are amorphous at room temperature and the formation of anatase phase appeared at an annealing temperature close to 400 °C. The rutile phase was not observed even at 900 °C (XRD and Raman spectroscopy). Grain sizes and electron densities increased when the temperature was raised. Nb-doped films have higher electron densities and lower grain sizes due to niobium doping. Grain size inhibition can be explained by lattice stress induced by the incorporation of larger Nb 5+ ions into the lattice. The band gap energy of indirect transition of the TiO 2 thin films was calculated to be about 3.03 eV. After niobium doping, it decreased to 2.40 eV

  13. Genotoxic and cytotoxic activity of green synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Koca, Fatih Doğan; Duman, Fatih

    2018-03-01

    Nowadays, nanomaterials that are smaller than 100 nm in size are very attractive owing to their enhanced physicochemical properties. Although they have been used widely for industrial applications, their toxicity still remains a problem. This article is a new record of the synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) by a Mentha aquatica leaf extract and determination of its toxicity to rat marrow mesenchymal stem cells. In this study, we aimed to determine the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of biologically synthetized TiO2 NPs. The characteristic peak of the nanomaterial was observed at 354 nm. The mean size of the nanomaterial was measured to be 69 nm from SEM images. According to zeta analysis, the surface charge of the nanomaterial was - 37.6 mV. The crystalline structure of the nanomaterial was determined using XRD analysis. It was concluded that the obtained nanomaterial was TiO2 The results of the FT-IR analysis showed that the functional groups that were found in the plant extract could play an important role in the formation and stabilization of TiO2 NPs. The effective size of the TiO2 NPs was found to be 304 nm using DLS analysis. The TGA analysis results showed that the total mass loss was 4% at 900 °C. According to DNA cleavage analysis results, TiO2 NPs cause damage to the plasmid pBR322 DNA in a concentration-dependant matter. It has been noted that TiO2 NPs lead to decreased cell viability during increased time and concentration of applications on rat marrow mesenchymal stem cells. It has also been determined that bulk TiO2 causes a greater reduction in the stem cell viability compared to the biosynthesized NPs. The obtained results could be useful for further application and toxicity studies.

  14. The synthesis of aqueous-dispersible anatase TiO2 nanoplatelets

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shan Guobin; Demopoulos, George P

    2010-01-01

    Aqueous well-dispersed and phase-pure anatase TiO 2 truncated octahedron nanoplatelets (NPLs) were prepared via controlled hydrolysis of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl 4 ) in ethylene glycol at 240 deg. C. Two shapes, square and hexagon, were observed by microscopy, exactly corresponding to the truncated octahedron NPLs. Ethylene glycol was found to produce water in situ that reacts with TiCl 4 to produce TiO 2 and HCl-the latter promoting TiO 2 colloid peptization. TiO 2 truncated octahedron NPLs are formed under the stabilizing action of ethylene glycol thermolysis derivatives, such as aldehydes. Crystal growth of the TiO 2 NPLs was affected by the reaction temperature that determines the water production rate and HCl-assisted peptization. TGA and FT-IR results showed ∼1.2% ethylene glycol thermolysis derivatives are attached to the surface of the TiO 2 NPLs, which prevents their agglomeration, hence making them easily dispersible in aqueous media. HR-TEM and SAED results showed that the TiO 2 NPLs are well crystallized and that the SAED patterns of the single TiO 2 NPL changes with its size and shape. XRD patterns showed that the TiO 2 NPLs are phase-pure anatase and the percentage of the {101} plane in the TiO 2 NPLs to be only 18%-a structural feature that renders the TiO 2 NPLs with enhanced UV absorption and reactivity properties.

  15. TiO2 (NanoParticles Extracted from Sugar-Coated Confectionery

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Martina Lorenzetti

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available As the debate about TiO2 food additive safety is still open, the present study focuses on the extraction and characterisation of TiO2 (nanoparticles added as a whitening agent to confectionary products, that is, chewing gum pellets. The aim was to (1 determine the colloidal properties of suspensions mutually containing TiO2 and all other chewing gum ingredients in biologically relevant media (preingestion conditions; (2 characterise the TiO2 (nanoparticles extracted from the chewing gum coating (after ingestion; and (3 verify their potential photocatalysis. The particle size distribution, in agreement with the zeta potential results, indicated that a small but significant portion of the particle population retained mean dimensions close to the nanosize range, even in conditions of moderate stability, and in presence of all other ingredients. The dispersibility was enhanced by proteins (i.e., albumin, which acted as surfactants and reduced particle size. The particle extraction methods involved conventional techniques and no harmful chemicals. The presence of TiO2 particles embedded in the sugar-based coating was confirmed, including 17–30% fraction in the nanorange (<100 nm. The decomposition of organics under UV irradiation proved the photocatalytic activity of the extracted (nanoparticles. Surprisingly, photocatalysis occurred even in presence of an amorphous SiO2 layer surrounding the TiO2 particles.

  16. Wet routes of high purity BaTiO3 nanopowders

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Liqiu; Liu Liang; Xue Dongfeng; Kang Hongmin; Liu Changhou

    2007-01-01

    High purity BaTiO 3 nanopowders were prepared in wet routes through stearic acid gel (SAG) and acetic acid gel (AAG) techniques, respectively. BaTiO 3 samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The present results indicate that both methods have a similar reaction process during calcination, while BaTiO 3 crystallites were initially formed at 550 deg. C by SAG and 800 deg. C by AAG. Both methods could produce BaTiO 3 powders with a cubic perovskite structure, while they had different grain size distributions within 25-50 nm for SAG and 50-80 nm for AAG. BaTiO 3 samples prepared by SAG had a lower agglomeration than those by AAG. SAG has shown many distinctive advantages in the preparation of high purity BaTiO 3 nanopowders, without Ba and Ti losses and hazardous wastes

  17. Photocatalytic Decolorization Study of Methyl Orange by TiO2–Chitosan Nanocomposites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Imelda Fajriati

    2014-10-01

    Full Text Available The photocatalytic decolorization of methyl orange (MO by TiO2-chitosan nanocomposite has been studied. This study was started by synthesizing TiO2-chitosan nanocomposites using sol-gel method with various concentrations of Titanium(IV isopropoxide (TTIP as the TiO2 precursor. The structure, surface morphology, thermal and optical property of TiO2-chitosan nanocomposite were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, fourier transform infra red (FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA, and diffuse reflectance ultra violet (DRUV spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2-chitosan nanocomposite was evaluated by photocatalytic decolorization of methyl orange as a model pollutant. The results indicate that the particle size of TiO2 increases with increasing ofthe concentration of TTIP, in which TiO2 with smallest particle size exhibit the highest photocatalytic activity. The highest photocatalytic decolorization was obtained at 5 h of contact time, initial concentration of MO at 20 ppm and at solution pH of 4. Using these conditions, over 90% of MO was able to be decolorized using 0.02 g of TiO2-chitosan nanocomposite under UV light irradiation. The TiO2-chitosan nanocomposite could be reused, which meant that the TiO2-chitosan nanocomposites can be developed as an effective and economical photocatalyst to decolorize or treat dye in wastewater.

  18. Comportamiento dieléctrico de compuestos epoxi/aluminio/BaTiO3

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Castro, M. S.

    2009-06-01

    Full Text Available In order to improve the dielectric behaviour of epoxi/BaTiO3, in this work the influence of micrometric aluminum metal flakes (Al, on the dielectric properties of epoxy / BaTiO3 composites was studied. Epoxy resin, Al and BaTiO3 were mixed using an ultrasonic mixer and composites were deposited onto glass substrates by dipping technique. Obtained materials presented good dielectric properties at room temperature, and relaxation process appeared due to the resin behaviour. Obtained results were compared with those reported in literature for similar systems.Con el objetivo de mejorar el comportamiento dieléctrico de los compuestos epoxi/BaTiO3, en este trabajo se estudió la influencia de partículas metálicas de aluminio (Al, con forma de escamas y tamaño micrométrico, sobre las propiedades dieléctricas de sistemas epoxi / BaTiO3. El material compuesto fue obtenido por la técnica de inmersión o “dipping”. La mezcla de los componentes fue llevado a cabo en mezclador ultrasónica y la deposición se realizó sobre sustratos de vidrio. Los materiales obtenidos presentaron buenas propiedades dieléctricas a temperatura ambiente, sin alcanzar el límite de percolación, y los fenómenos de relajación fueron generados por los dominios de la resina. Los valores obtenidos fueron comparados con los reportados en la bibliografía para sistemas similares.

  19. Topotactic reduction and reoxidation of hexagonal RCu{sub 0.5}Ti{sub 0.5}O{sub 3} (R = Y, Eu-Lu) Phases

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jiang, Peng, E-mail: jiangp@onid.orst.edu [Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4003 (United States); Berthelot, Romain, E-mail: berthelot.rom@gmail.com [Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4003 (United States); Li, Jun, E-mail: jli100@yahoo.com [Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4003 (United States); Sleight, A.W., E-mail: arthur.sleight@oregonstate.edu [Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4003 (United States); Subramanian, M.A., E-mail: mas.subramanian@oregonstate.edu [Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4003 (United States)

    2013-06-01

    Highlights: ► Topotactic reduction of hexagonal RCu{sub 0.5}Ti{sub 0.5}O{sub 3} phases is performed. ► TGA and magnetism indicate a formula of RCu{sub 0.5}Ti{sub 0.5}O{sub 2.78} for the reduced phase. ► Topotactic reoxidation occurs on heating these phases to 400 °C in air. - Abstract: Hexagonal AMO{sub 2} and AMO{sub 3} phases have the same basic structure, and intermediate compositions for this structure have been prepared by topotactic oxidation of AMO{sub 2} phases such as RCuO{sub 2}, where R is a trivalent rare earth cation. We now find that such intermediate phases can also be prepared by topotactic reduction of hexagonal RCu{sub 0.5}Ti{sub 0.5}O{sub 3} (R = Y, Tb-Lu) phases. Our TGA and magnetic susceptibility studies indicate a formula of RCu{sub 0.5}Ti{sub 0.5}O{sub 2.78} for these reduced phases. Topotactic reoxidation occurs on heating these phases to 400 °C in air.

  20. Size effects of polycrystalline lanthanum modified Bi4Ti3O12 thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Simoes, A.Z.; Riccardi, C.S.; Cavalcante, L.S.; Gonzalez, A.H.M.; Longo, E.; Varela, J.A.

    2008-01-01

    The film thickness dependence on the ferroelectric properties of lanthanum modified bismuth titanate Bi 3.25 La 0.75 Ti 3 O 12 was investigated. Films with thicknesses ranging from 230 to 404 nm were grown on platinum-coated silicon substrates by the polymeric precursor method. The internal strain is strongly influenced by the film thickness. The morphology of the film changes as the number of layers increases indicating a thickness dependent grain size. The leakage current, remanent polarization and drive voltage were also affected by the film thickness

  1. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of an additive element in metal oxide nanometer film using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xiu, Junshan; Liu, Shiming; Sun, Meiling; Dong, Lili

    2018-01-20

    The photoelectric performance of metal ion-doped TiO 2 film will be improved with the changing of the compositions and concentrations of additive elements. In this work, the TiO 2 films doped with different Sn concentrations were obtained with the hydrothermal method. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the Sn element in TiO 2 film was achieved with laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with the calibration curves plotted accordingly. The photoelectric characteristics of TiO 2 films doped with different Sn content were observed with UV visible absorption spectra and J-V curves. All results showed that Sn doping could improve the optical absorption to be red-shifted and advance the photoelectric properties of the TiO 2 films. We had obtained that when the concentration of Sn doping in TiO 2 films was 11.89  mmol/L, which was calculated by the LIBS calibration curves, the current density of the film was the largest, which indicated the best photoelectric performance. It indicated that LIBS was a potential and feasible measured method, which was applied to qualitative and quantitative analysis of the additive element in metal oxide nanometer film.

  2. Reversible Size Control of Silver Nanoclusters via Ligand-exchange

    KAUST Repository

    Bootharaju, Megalamane Siddaramappa

    2015-05-21

    The properties of atomically monodisperse noble metal nanoclusters (NCs) are intricately intertwined with their precise molecular formula. The vast majority of size-specific NC syntheses start from the reduction of the metal salt and thiol ligand mixture. Only in gold was it recently shown that ligand-exchange could induce the growth of NCs from one atomically precise species to another; a process of yet unknown reversibility. Here, we present a process for the ligand-exchange-induced growth of atomically precise silver NCs, in a biphasic liquid-liquid system, which is particularly of interest because of its complete reversibility and ability to occur at room temperature. We explore this phenomenon in-depth using Ag35(SG)18 [SG= glutathionate] and Ag44(4-FTP)30 [4-FTP= 4-fluorothiophenol] as model systems. We show that the ligand-exchange conversion of Ag35(SG)18 into Ag44(4-FTP)30 is rapid (< 5 min) and direct, while the reverse process proceeds slowly through intermediate cluster sizes. We adapt a recently developed theory of reverse Ostwald ripening to model the NCs’ interconvertibility. The model’s predictions are in good agreement with the experimental observations, and they highlight the importance of small changes in the ligand-metal binding energy in determining the final equilibrium NC size. Based on the insight provided by this model, we demonstrated experimentally that by varying the choice of ligands, ligand-exchange can be used to obtain different sized NCs. The findings in this work establish ligand-exchange as a versatile tool for tuning cluster sizes.

  3. Reversible Size Control of Silver Nanoclusters via Ligand-exchange

    KAUST Repository

    Bootharaju, Megalamane Siddaramappa; Burlakov, Victor M.; Besong, Tabot M.D.; Joshi, Chakra Prasad; AbdulHalim, L; Black, David; Whetten, Robert; Goriely, Alain; Bakr, Osman

    2015-01-01

    The properties of atomically monodisperse noble metal nanoclusters (NCs) are intricately intertwined with their precise molecular formula. The vast majority of size-specific NC syntheses start from the reduction of the metal salt and thiol ligand mixture. Only in gold was it recently shown that ligand-exchange could induce the growth of NCs from one atomically precise species to another; a process of yet unknown reversibility. Here, we present a process for the ligand-exchange-induced growth of atomically precise silver NCs, in a biphasic liquid-liquid system, which is particularly of interest because of its complete reversibility and ability to occur at room temperature. We explore this phenomenon in-depth using Ag35(SG)18 [SG= glutathionate] and Ag44(4-FTP)30 [4-FTP= 4-fluorothiophenol] as model systems. We show that the ligand-exchange conversion of Ag35(SG)18 into Ag44(4-FTP)30 is rapid (< 5 min) and direct, while the reverse process proceeds slowly through intermediate cluster sizes. We adapt a recently developed theory of reverse Ostwald ripening to model the NCs’ interconvertibility. The model’s predictions are in good agreement with the experimental observations, and they highlight the importance of small changes in the ligand-metal binding energy in determining the final equilibrium NC size. Based on the insight provided by this model, we demonstrated experimentally that by varying the choice of ligands, ligand-exchange can be used to obtain different sized NCs. The findings in this work establish ligand-exchange as a versatile tool for tuning cluster sizes.

  4. Structure characterization of Ni/NiO and Ti/TiO2 interfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lamine, Brahim

    1983-01-01

    This research thesis reports the structure characterization of Ni-NiO and Ti-TiO 2 interfaces through an in-situ investigation of thin blade oxidation, of oxide germination and growth, and through a determination of mutual metal/oxide orientation relationships. Thin films of TiO 2 have also been characterized and the study of the influence of vacuum annealing on TiO 2 layer structure and morphology has been attempted. The examination of metal-oxide interface reveals a duplex structure of NiO and TiO 2 layers, and a preferential grain boundary oxidation of the underlying metal [fr

  5. Charge transfer between biogenic jarosite derived Fe3+and TiO2 enhances visible light photocatalytic activity of TiO2.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chowdhury, Mahabubur; Shoko, Sipiwe; Cummings, Fransciuos; Fester, Veruscha; Ojumu, Tunde Victor

    2017-04-01

    In this work, we have shown that mining waste derived Fe 3+ can be used to enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 . This will allow us to harness a waste product from the mines, and utilize it to enhance TiO 2 photocatalytic waste water treatment efficiency. An organic linker mediated route was utilized to create a composite of TiO 2 and biogenic jarosite. Evidence of FeOTi bonding in the TiO 2 /jarosite composite was apparent from the FTIR, EFTEM, EELS and ELNEFS analysis. The as prepared material showed enhanced photocatalytic activity compared to pristine TiO 2 , biogenic jarosite and mechanically mixed sample of jarosite and TiO 2 under both simulated and natural solar irradiation. The prepared material can reduce the electrical energy consumption by 4 times compared to pristine P25 for degradation of organic pollutant in water. The material also showed good recyclability. Results obtained from sedimentation experiments showed that the larger sized jarosite material provided the surface to TiO 2 nanoparticles, which increases the settling rate of the materials. This allowed simple and efficient recovery of the catalyst from the reaction system after completion of photocatalysis. Enhanced photocatalytic activity of the composite material was due to effective charge transfer between TiO 2 and jarosite derived Fe 3+ as was shown from the EELS and ELNEFS. Generation of OH was supported by photoluminesence (PL) experiments. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  6. Electron microscopy and positron annihilation study of CdSe nanoclusters embedded in MgO

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    van Huis, M.A.; van Veen, A.; Schut, H.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Kooi, B.J.; de Hosson, J.T.M.

    CdSe nanoclusters are created in MgO by means of co-implantation of 280 keV, 1 x 10(16) Cd ions cm(-2) and 210 keV, 1 x 10(16) Se ions cm(-2) in single crystals of MgO(001) and subsequent thermal annealing at a temperature of 1300 K, The structural properties and the orientation relationship between

  7. Electrochemical characterization of V{sub x}Nb{sub y}C{sub z}/Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z} coatings produced through thermo-reactive diffusion and the sputtering technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Castro H, S. A.; Alfonso, J. E.; Olaya, J. J., E-mail: jealfonso@unal.edu.co [Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Departamento de Fisica, Grupo de Ciencia de Materiales y Superficies, AA-14490 Bogota (Colombia)

    2016-11-01

    We present and experimental study of the structural evolution of a bilayer V{sub x}Nb{sub y}C{sub z}/Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z} coating produced via thermo-reactive diffusion (TRD) and the RF sputtering process on D-2 steel substrate. The TRD treatments were carried out in a molten mixture consisting of borax, ferro-niobium, ferro-vanadium, and aluminum, at 1313 K for 3 hours, using a resistance-heating furnace. Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z} coatings were deposited using RF magnetron sputtering on TRD coatings, in order to carry out a study of the corrosion behavior of this compound. The crystallographic structure of the coatings was determined via X-ray diffraction, the corrosion resistance was analyzed through the potentiodynamic polarization test (Tafel Extrapolation) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis (EIS). X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the ternary coating (VNbC{sub 2}) was preferentially oriented along the [200] direction with a cubic-centered face structure, and the Bi{sub x}Ti{sub y}O{sub z} coatings were amorphous. The electrochemical studies showed that the resistance corrosion of the coatings increased with respect to the bare substrate, and that polarization resistance in the bilayer coatings increased with respect to the ternary coatings, suggesting that the titanate has anti corrosive barrier effects. (Author)

  8. Synthesis, characterization and catalytic properties of nanocrystaline Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}-coated TiO{sub 2} in the ethanol dehydration reaction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fajardo, Humberto Vieira [Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP), MG (Brazil). Departamento de Quimica; Longo, Elson [Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP (Brazil). Departamento de Fisico-Quimica; Leite, Edson Roberto; Libanori, Rafael [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil). Departamento de Quimica; Probst, Luiz Fernando Dias [Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianopolis, SC (Brazil). Departamento de Quimica; Carreno, Neftali Lenin Villarreal [Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), RS (Brazil). Departamento de Quimica Analitica e Inorganica

    2012-03-15

    In the present study, TiO{sub 2} nano powder was partially coated with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} precursors generated by a sol-gel modified route. The system of nanocoated particles formed an ultra thin structure on the TiO{sub 2} surfaces. The modified nanoparticles were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Zeta potential and surface area through N{sub 2} physisorption measurements. Bioethanol dehydration was used as a probe reaction to investigate the modifications on the nanoparticles surface. The process led to the obtainment of nanoparticles with important surface characteristics and catalytic behavior in the bioethanol dehydration reaction, with improved activity and particular selectivity in comparison to their non-coated analogs. The ethylene production was disfavored and selectivity toward acetaldehyde, hydrogen and ethane increased over modified nanoparticles. (author)

  9. Electrochemical activity of Li{sub 2}FeTiO{sub 4} and Li{sub 2}MnTiO{sub 4} as potential active materials for Li ion batteries: A comparison with Li{sub 2}NiTiO{sub 4}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kuezma, Mirjana; Dominko, Robert; Bele, Marjan; Jamnik, Janko [National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana (Slovenia); Meden, Anton [Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana (Slovenia); Makovec, Darko [Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana (Slovenia); Gaberscek, Miran [National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana (Slovenia); Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana (Slovenia)

    2009-04-01

    We demonstrate, for the first time, a considerable electrochemical activity of two members of lithium transition element titanates: Li{sub 2}FeTiO{sub 4} and Li{sub 2}MnTiO{sub 4}. Both materials consist of 10-20 nm particles embedded in a conductive carbon coating. We show that not the coating but the small particle size is decisive for materials' activity. Li{sub 2}FeTiO{sub 4} shows a stable reversible capacity of up to 123 mA hg{sup -1} at C/20 and 60 C which is 83% of the theoretical value for exchange of 1 electron (148 mA hg{sup -1}). Li{sub 2}MnTiO{sub 4} could only be prepared in a nanosized form that contained about 30% of impurities. The capacity of the whole material (including impurities) is comparable to that of Li{sub 2}FeTiO{sub 4} but the cycling stability is much poorer. In contrast to the Fe and Mn analogues, the third member of the titanate family, Li{sub 2}NiTiO{sub 4}, shows a good electrochemistry even when the particle size is much larger (about 100 nm). During initial cycles at C/10 and 60 C, exchange of more than 1 electron per compound formula has been observed. The cycling stability at high temperatures, however, is poor. (author)

  10. Role of phonon scattering by elastic strain field in thermoelectric Sr1−xYxTiO3−δ

    KAUST Repository

    Bhattacharya, S.

    2014-06-12

    Perovskite-type SrTiO3-δ ceramics are multifunctional materials with significant potential as n-type thermoelectric (TE) materials. The electronic and thermal transport properties of spark plasma sintered polycrystalline Sr1-xYxTiO3-δ (x=0.05, 0.075, 0.1) ceramics are systematically investigated from (15-800) K. The Sr0.9Y0.1TiO3-δ simultaneously exhibits a large Seebeck coefficient, α>-80μV/K and moderately high electrical resistivity, ρ∼0.8mΩ-cm at a carrier concentration of ∼1021cm-3 at 300K resulting in a high TE power factor defined herein as (α2σT)∼0.84W/m-K at 760K. Despite the similar atomic masses of Sr (87.6g/mol) and Y (88.9g/mol), the lattice thermal conductivity (κL) of Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ is significantly reduced with increased Y-doping, owing to the smaller ionic radii of Y3+ (∼1.23Å, coordination number 12) compared to Sr2+ (∼1.44Å, coordination number 12) ions. In order to understand the thermal conductivity reduction mechanism, the κL in the Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ series are phenomenologically modeled with a modified Callaway\\'s equation from 30-600K. Phonon scattering by elastic strain field due to ionic radii mismatch is found to be the prominent scattering mechanism in reducing κL of these materials. In addition, the effect of Y-doping on the elastic moduli of Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ (x=0, 0.1) is investigated using resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, which exhibits an anomaly in x=0.1 in the temperature range 300-600K. As a result, the phonon mean free path is found to be further reduced in the Sr0.9Y0.1TiO3-δ compared to that of SrTiO3-δ, resulting in a considerably low thermal conductivity κ∼2.7W/m-K at 760K. Finally, we report a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT)∼0.3 at 760K in the Sr0.9Y 0.1TiO3-δ, the highest ZT value reported in the Y-doped SrTiO3 ceramics thus far. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.

  11. Role of phonon scattering by elastic strain field in thermoelectric Sr1−xYxTiO3−δ

    KAUST Repository

    Bhattacharya, S.; Mehdizadeh Dehkordi, A.; Tennakoon, S.; Adebisi, R.; Gladden, J. R.; Darroudi, T.; Alshareef, Husam N.; Tritt, T. M.

    2014-01-01

    Perovskite-type SrTiO3-δ ceramics are multifunctional materials with significant potential as n-type thermoelectric (TE) materials. The electronic and thermal transport properties of spark plasma sintered polycrystalline Sr1-xYxTiO3-δ (x=0.05, 0.075, 0.1) ceramics are systematically investigated from (15-800) K. The Sr0.9Y0.1TiO3-δ simultaneously exhibits a large Seebeck coefficient, α>-80μV/K and moderately high electrical resistivity, ρ∼0.8mΩ-cm at a carrier concentration of ∼1021cm-3 at 300K resulting in a high TE power factor defined herein as (α2σT)∼0.84W/m-K at 760K. Despite the similar atomic masses of Sr (87.6g/mol) and Y (88.9g/mol), the lattice thermal conductivity (κL) of Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ is significantly reduced with increased Y-doping, owing to the smaller ionic radii of Y3+ (∼1.23Å, coordination number 12) compared to Sr2+ (∼1.44Å, coordination number 12) ions. In order to understand the thermal conductivity reduction mechanism, the κL in the Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ series are phenomenologically modeled with a modified Callaway's equation from 30-600K. Phonon scattering by elastic strain field due to ionic radii mismatch is found to be the prominent scattering mechanism in reducing κL of these materials. In addition, the effect of Y-doping on the elastic moduli of Sr1-xY xTiO3-δ (x=0, 0.1) is investigated using resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, which exhibits an anomaly in x=0.1 in the temperature range 300-600K. As a result, the phonon mean free path is found to be further reduced in the Sr0.9Y0.1TiO3-δ compared to that of SrTiO3-δ, resulting in a considerably low thermal conductivity κ∼2.7W/m-K at 760K. Finally, we report a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT)∼0.3 at 760K in the Sr0.9Y 0.1TiO3-δ, the highest ZT value reported in the Y-doped SrTiO3 ceramics thus far. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.

  12. Photodegradation properties and optics of Ag/TiO{sub 2} films; Propiedades de fotodegradacion y opticas de peliculas Ag/TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tirado G, S. [IPN, Escuela Superior de Fisica y Matematicas, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico); Valenzuela Z, M. A., E-mail: tirado@esfm.ipn.mx [IPN, Escuela Superior de Ingenieria Quimica e Industrias Extractivas, Laboratorio de Catalisis y Materiales, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico)

    2016-10-15

    In the thin semiconductor films of Ag/TiO{sub 2} the topographic properties were recorded by atomic force microscopy and the main parameters of roughness were determined; the optical properties were also recorded when determining their transmittance degree, their refractive indexes, their thickness and the bandwidth of the semiconductor Eg, both for pure TiO{sub 2} films and the modified Ag/TiO{sub 2} films with various layers of the Ag catalyst. The Ag/TiO{sub 2} films that were grown by sol-gel and repeated immersion, chemical technique that has been used in the development of thin film technology, were carried out in photo catalysis, when are used in photo degradation of methyl orange at an aqueous concentration of 14 ppm, once they are characterized with several techniques required to be able to explain the possible photo catalytic reactions at the solid-aqueous interface, when irradiated with UV; with the possible application in water treatment. The photoluminescence spectra of the prepared Ag/TiO{sub 2} samples are reported, which resulted in a green emission, characteristic of the visible, in addition to emissions in the UV range. (Author)

  13. Estudio dieléctrico de cerámicas de textura y microestructura controladas con composiciones (SrBi2Nb2O91-x(Bi3TiNbO9x

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pardo, L.

    2002-02-01

    Full Text Available Ceramics of composition (SrBi2Nb2O91-x(Bi3TiNbO9x with x = 0.35, 0.65 and 1.00 and Aurivillius type structure have been prepared by natural sintering and hot pressing. Amorphous precursors were obtained by mechanochemical activation of stoichiometric mixtures of oxides and carbonates, which allows using moderate processing temperatures. These materials are interesting for their use as high temperature piezoelectrics. Dielectric characterisation allows to know the temperature at what takes place the ferro-paraelectric transition, which limits the working temperature of the material. It also gives information on how the electric properties, especially the d. c. conductivity, affect the polarizability of the ceramics. The properties relation with the microstructure and the texture is studied. In this work, dielectric studies of these materials have been made, in the frequency interval from 100 Hz to 5 MHz and in the temperature range from 200 ºC up to the ferroparaelectric transition temperatures (>900 ºC for Bi3TiNbO9.Se han preparado cerámicas de la solución sólida (SrBi2Nb2O91-x(Bi3TiNbO9x con x = 0.35, 0.65 y 1.00 y estructura tipo Aurivillius obtenidas por sinterización natural y por prensado en caliente. Se parte de precursores amorfos obtenidos por activación mecanoquímica de una mezcla estequiométrica de óxidos y carbonatos, lo que permite utilizar temperaturas moderadas de procesado. Estos materiales son interesantes por su posible uso como piezoeléctricos de alta temperatura. La caracterización dieléctrica permite establecer a qué temperatura se encuentra la transición ferro-paraeléctrica que limita la temperatura de uso del material y como afectan las propiedades eléctricas, especialmente la conductividad d. c., a la polarizabilidad de las cerámicas, así como su relación con su microestructura y textura. En este trabajo se ha realizado el estudio dieléctrico de estos materiales en el intervalo de frecuencias de 100

  14. Efecto del gas utilizado en el tratamiento térmico y la impurificación con Eu en las propiedades estructurales de nanofibras de TiO2 depositadas por electrohilado

    OpenAIRE

    Cruz-González, N.; Fernández Muñoz, J.L.; Zapata-Torres, M.; García-Hipólito, M.

    2013-01-01

    En este trabajo estudiamos la influencia de la atmósfera utilizada en el tratamiento térmico; así como la impurificación con Europio, en la transformación estructural de nanofibras de TiO2 crecidas por la técnica de electrohilado. Las muestras de TiO2 fueron tratadas térmicamente en atmósferas de Nitrógeno y Aire. Las muestras de TiO2:Eu fueron tratadas térmicamente en una atmosfera de aire. La morfología fue estudiada por Microscopia Electrónica de Barrido (SEM por sus siglas en ingles); y s...

  15. DFT Studies of Adsorption of Cu7-atom Nanoclusters on TiO2 Surfaces and Application to Methanol Steam Reforming Reactions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Taft, Michael J., Sr.

    Alcohol conversion to hydrogen, via steam reforming, is an alternative energy process that is promising for the future of clean energy economies. With advancements in fuel cell technologies, on-board hydrogen reforming could leverage already existing automotive designs and fuel infrastructure. The design of catalytic materials with tunable properties requires a level of insight that has yet to be achieved experimentally. The central objective of this project is to develop a working model of metal-oxide surface mediated copper clusters, since such catalytic beds have a wide-range of applications. More specifically, we investigate the catalytic framework of this process with theoretical models of the active metal (Cu) and metal­oxide support (TiO2). We employ a Density Functional Theory (DFT)-Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) approach for the quantum level electronic structure calculations of Cu, TiO2 and CH3OH. Additionally, we have generated anatase (A(001), A(101)) and rutile (R(100), R(110)) surface morphologies and 7­atom copper cluster complexes with those planes. To examine the possible influence of TiO2 on the adsorption properties of our active metal, Cu7, we have carried out adsorption studies with CH3OH. Our final data and observations predict that the Cu7 cluster adopts a symmetric pentagonal bipyramidal geometry with D5h symmetry. We find that the anatase morphology has a greater overall stability than rutile. The adsorption strength of the Cu7 cluster has been predicted in this study to be according to the following order: A(001) > A(101)> R(110). Indeed, the R(100) surface appears to be an unfavorable surface for metal cluster binding. Our data indicates that copper cluster stabilization on the metal-oxide surface depends on the nature of the crystal face. Again, we studied the adsorption properties of methanol on nascent Cu7 cluster, Cu7-TiO 2 complex and on pure TiO2-surface in A(001) polymorphic form. The calculations revealed that methanol

  16. Cluster synthesis of monodisperse rutile-TiO2 nanoparticles and dielectric TiO2-vinylidene fluoride oligomer nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Balasubramanian, Balamurugan; Kraemer, Kristin L; Valloppilly, Shah R; Ducharme, Stephen; Sellmyer, David J

    2011-01-01

    The embedding of oxide nanoparticles in polymer matrices produces a greatly enhanced dielectric response by combining the high dielectric strength and low loss of suitable host polymers with the high electric polarizability of nanoparticles. The fabrication of oxide-polymer nanocomposites with well-controlled distributions of nanoparticles is, however, challenging due to the thermodynamic and kinetic barriers between the polymer matrix and nanoparticle fillers. In the present study, monodisperse TiO 2 nanoparticles having an average particle size of 14.4 nm and predominant rutile phase were produced using a cluster-deposition technique without high-temperature thermal annealing and subsequently coated with uniform vinylidene fluoride oligomer (VDFO) molecules using a thermal evaporation source, prior to deposition as TiO 2 -VDFO nanocomposite films on suitable substrates. The molecular coatings on TiO 2 nanoparticles serve two purposes, namely to prevent the TiO 2 nanoparticles from contacting each other and to couple the nanoparticle polarization to the matrix. Parallel-plate capacitors made of TiO 2 -VDFO nanocomposite film as the dielectric exhibit minimum dielectric dispersion and low dielectric loss. Dielectric measurements also show an enhanced effective dielectric constant in TiO 2 -VDFO nanocomposites as compared to that of pure VDFO. This study demonstrates for the first time a unique electroactive particle coating in the form of a ferroelectric VDFO that has high-temperature stability as compared to conventionally used polymers for fabricating dielectric oxide-polymer nanocomposites.

  17. 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.

  18. Consolidation of nanometer-sized aluminum single crystals: Microstructure and defects evolutions

    KAUST Repository

    Afify, N. D.

    2014-04-01

    Deriving bulk materials with ultra-high mechanical strength from nanometer-sized single metalic crystals depends on the consolidation procedure. We present an accurate molecular dynamics study to quantify microstructure responses to consolidation. Aluminum single crystals with an average size up to 10.7 nm were hydrostatically compressed at temperatures up to 900 K and pressures up to 5 GPa. The consolidated material developed an average grain size that grew exponentially with the consolidation temperature, with a growth rate dependent on the starting average grain size and the consolidation pressure. The evolution of the microstructure was accompanied by a significant reduction in the concentration of defects. The ratio of vacancies to dislocation cores decreased with the average grain size and then increased after reaching a critical average grain size. The deformation mechanisms of poly-crystalline metals can be better understood in the light of the current findings. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Consolidation of nanometer-sized aluminum single crystals: Microstructure and defects evolutions

    KAUST Repository

    Afify, N. D.; Salem, H. G.; Yavari, A.; El Sayed, Tamer S.

    2014-01-01

    Deriving bulk materials with ultra-high mechanical strength from nanometer-sized single metalic crystals depends on the consolidation procedure. We present an accurate molecular dynamics study to quantify microstructure responses to consolidation. Aluminum single crystals with an average size up to 10.7 nm were hydrostatically compressed at temperatures up to 900 K and pressures up to 5 GPa. The consolidated material developed an average grain size that grew exponentially with the consolidation temperature, with a growth rate dependent on the starting average grain size and the consolidation pressure. The evolution of the microstructure was accompanied by a significant reduction in the concentration of defects. The ratio of vacancies to dislocation cores decreased with the average grain size and then increased after reaching a critical average grain size. The deformation mechanisms of poly-crystalline metals can be better understood in the light of the current findings. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Photodegradation of rhodamine B and methyl orange over one-dimensional TiO2 catalysts under simulated solar irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Guo Changsheng; Xu Jian; He Yan; Zhang Yuan; Wang Yuqiu

    2011-01-01

    In this paper, two one-dimensional (1D) TiO 2 nanostructures, nanotube and nanowire were synthesized by a hydrothermal method using Degussa P25 TiO 2 as a precursor. The synthesized anatase TiO 2 nanotubes with the diameters of 10-20 nm and length of several hundred nanometers were formed from P25 and NaOH with the hydrothermal treatment temperature at 150 deg. C, and anatase TiO 2 nanowires with the diameters of 10-40 nm and length up to several micrometers were prepared at 180 deg. C. The photocatalytic activity of the two nanostructures was evaluated by degrading rhodamine B (RhB) and methyl orange (MO) in aqueous solutions under simulated solar light irradiation. The results suggested that the TiO 2 nanocatalysts displayed higher degradation activity compared to P25. For RhB, 98.9% and 91.9% of RhB were removed by nanotubes and nanowires, respectively after 60 min irradiation in comparison to the 81.8% removal by P25. Similar trend was observed for MO, with the removal percentage of 95.6%, 88.3% and 74.9%, respectively by TiO 2 nanotubes, nanowires and P25. Meanwhile, RhB and MO showed different photodegradation rates in nanotubes and nanowires suspensions, probably due to the morphology and crystal structure of the TiO 2 nanocatalysts which play important roles in the degradation activity of the catalysts.

  1. Synthesis of nano-TiO2 photocatalysts with tunable Fe doping concentration from Ti-bearing tailings

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sui, Yulei; Liu, Qingxia; Jiang, Tao; Guo, Yufeng

    2018-01-01

    In this work, highly pure nano-TiO2 photocatalysts with varying Fe doping concentration were successfully synthesized from low-cost Ti-bearing tailings by an acidolysis-hydrothermal route. The effects of H2SO4 concentration, leaching temperature, acid/tailings ratio and leaching time on the recovery of TiO2 from the tailings were investigated. Synthesized samples were characterized by XRD, TEM, EDS, XPS, and UV-vis spectroscopy. The results showed that the material prepared is characteristic anatase with the average size of 20 nm and the Fe doping concentration in the synthesized nano-TiO2 is tunable. The photocatalytic activity of synthesized nano-TiO2 photocatalyst was also evaluated by the photodegradation of Rhodamine B under visible light and UV light irradiation. Our study demonstrates a low-cost approach to synthesize highly efficient and visible light responsive catalysts.

  2. Nanometer-size surface modification produced by single, low energy, highly charged ions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Stockli, M.P.

    1994-01-01

    Atomically flat surfaces of insulators have been bombarded with low energy, highly charged ions to search for nanometer-size surface modifications. It is expected that the high electron deficiency of highly charged ions will capture and/or remove many of the insulator's localized electrons when impacting on an insulating surface. The resulting local electron deficiency is expected to locally disintegrate the insulator through a open-quotes Coulomb explosionclose quotes forming nanometer-size craters. Xe ions with charge states between 10+ and 45+ and kinetic energies between 0 and 10 keV/q were obtained from the KSU-CRYEBIS, a CRYogenic Electron Beam Ion Source and directed onto various insulating materials. Mica was favored as target material as atomically flat surfaces can be obtained reliably through cleaving. However, the authors observations with an atomic force microscope have shown that mica tends to defoliate locally rather than disintegrate, most likely due to the small binding forces between adjacent layers. So far the authors measurements indicate that each ion produces one blister if the charge state is sufficiently high. The blistering does not seem to depend very much on the kinetic energy of the ions

  3. pH-Induced transformation of ligated Au25 to brighter Au23 nanoclusters.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Waszkielewicz, Magdalena; Olesiak-Banska, Joanna; Comby-Zerbino, Clothilde; Bertorelle, Franck; Dagany, Xavier; Bansal, Ashu K; Sajjad, Muhammad T; Samuel, Ifor D W; Sanader, Zeljka; Rozycka, Miroslawa; Wojtas, Magdalena; Matczyszyn, Katarzyna; Bonacic-Koutecky, Vlasta; Antoine, Rodolphe; Ozyhar, Andrzej; Samoc, Marek

    2018-05-01

    Thiolate-protected gold nanoclusters have recently attracted considerable attention due to their size-dependent luminescence characterized by a long lifetime and large Stokes shift. However, the optimization of nanocluster properties such as the luminescence quantum yield is still a challenge. We report here the transformation of Au25Capt18 (Capt labels captopril) nanoclusters occurring at low pH and yielding a product with a much increased luminescence quantum yield which we have identified as Au23Capt17. We applied a simple method of treatment with HCl to accomplish this transformation and we characterized the absorption and emission of the newly created ligated nanoclusters as well as their morphology. Based on DFT calculations we show which Au nanocluster size transformations can lead to highly luminescent species such as Au23Capt17.

  4. Exchange bias in reduced dimensions: cobalt nanocluster arrays underthe influence of nanometer thin MnPt capping layers

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Sessi, V.; Hertenberger, S.; Zhang, J.; Schmitz, D.; Gsell, S.; Schreck, M.; Morel, R.; Brenac, A.; Honolka, Jan; Kern, K.

    2014-01-01

    Roč. 113, č. 12 (2014), "123903-1"-"123903-10" ISSN 0021-8979 Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : antiferromagnetism * cobalt * nanoclusters * quenching * superparamagnetism Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 2.183, year: 2014

  5. Improved dielectric properties and grain boundary response in neodymium-doped Y_2_/_3Cu_3Ti_4O_1_2 ceramics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liang, Pengfei; Yang, Zupei; Chao, Xiaolian

    2016-01-01

    Rare earth element neodymium was adopted to refine grain and in turn increase the volume of grain boundary of Y_2_/_3Cu_3Ti_4O_1_2 ceramics, which could strongly increase the resistance of grain boundary. Proper amount of Nd substitution in Y_2_/_3_−_xNd_xCu_3Ti_4O_1_2 ceramics could significantly depress the low-frequency dielectric loss. When the doping level is 0.06 and 0.09, the samples exhibited a relatively low dielectric loss (below 0.050 between 0.3 and 50 kHz) and high dielectric constant above 11000 over a wide frequency range from 40 Hz to 100 kHz. Based on the ε′-T plots, dielectric relaxation intensity was substantially weakened by Nd doping so that the temperature stability of dielectric constant was improved obviously. The correlations between low-frequency dielectric loss and the resistance of grain boundary were revealed. After Nd doping, the activation energies for the conduction behavior in grain boundaries were significantly enhanced, and the activation energies for the dielectric relaxation process in grain boundaries were slightly influenced. - Highlights: • Significant decrease in dielectric loss of Y_2_/_3_−_xNd_xCu_3Ti_4O_1_2 ceramics was realized. • The enhanced grain boundary density is responsible for the lowered dielectric loss. • Nd doping could improve the temperature stability of dielectric constant. • Oxygen vacancies contribute to conduction and relaxation process of grain boundaries.

  6. A Comparative XAFS Study of Gold-thiolate Nanoparticles and Nanoclusters

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chevrier, D M; Chatt, A; Zhang, P; Sham, T K

    2013-01-01

    Tiopronin-capped gold nanoparticles and gold nanoclusters of sizes 3.0 and 1.5 nm, respectively, were investigated with XAFS at the gold L 3 -edge. The specific EXAFS fitting procedure is discussed for obtaining reliable fit parameters for each system. The difficulties and challenges faced when analysing EXAFS data for gold nanoparticles and nanoclusters are also mentioned. Fitting results for gold nanoparticles reveal a small amount of surface Au-thiolate interactions with a large Au-Au metal core. For gold nanoclusters, only a one-shell fit was obtainable. Instead of Au-Au metal core, long-range interactions are expected for gold nanoclusters. Tiopronin-capped gold nanoclusters are proposed to be polymeric in nature, which helps explain the observed red luminescence.

  7. Diseño e implementación de una infraestructura para computación en la nube y servicios TI

    OpenAIRE

    Ramírez Vicente, Francisco José

    2016-01-01

    El trabajo final de grado presentado ofrece una introducción a la instalación, configuración y optimización de una infraestructura profesional básica, basada en máquinas virtuales, totalmente escalable, capaz de albergar diferentes entornos (todo tipo de clientes y/o empresas) aislados entre ellos (si es necesario), y a su vez, ofrecer todo tipo de servicios TI y cloud computing. El treball final de grau presentat ofereix una introducció a la instal·lació, configuració i optimització d'una...

  8. Diclofenac degradation by heterogeneous photocatalysis with Fe3O4/Ti x O y /activated carbon fiber composite synthesized by ultrasound irradiation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Moreno-Valencia, E. I.; Paredes-Carrera, S. P.; Sánchez-Ochoa, J. C.; Flores-Valle, S. O.; Avendaño-Gómez, J. R.

    2017-11-01

    In this work, a photocatalytic system to degrade diclofenac was developed using a composite Fe3O4/Ti x O y on an activated carbon fiber. Diclofenac is widely used as an anti-inflammatory compound worldwide and it is constantly being added as waste in the environment (Heberer 2002 J. Hydrol. 266 175-89), exceeding the permissible maximum concentration in the wastewater (GEO-3 2002 Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Medio Ambiente; Golet et al 2003 Environ. Sci. Technol. 37 3243-9 Oviedo et al 2010 Environ. Toxicol. Pharmacol. 29 9-43 Le-Minh et al 2010 Water Res. 44 4295-323 Legrini et al 1993 Chem. Rev. 1093 671-98). The composite was synthesized by sol-gel technique with and without ultrasound irradiation (Singh and Nakate 2014 J. Nanopart. 2014 326747). The solids were deposited by ultrasound irradiation on active carbon fiber in order to optimize the diclofenac degradation. The solids were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen physisorption (BET), and scanning electron microscopy with EDS microanalysis (SEM-EDS). The crystal size was calculated with the Debye-Scherrer equation, and the band gap values by the diffuse reflectance method. The evaluation process was studied by UV-vis spectroscopy (Rizzoa et al 2009 Water Res. 43 979-88). It was found that in this synthesis method (ultrasound), textural properties such as porosity, specific surface area and morphology depend on the ultrasound irradiation. The proposed system, Fe3O4/titanium oxide hydrate showed better degradation profile than TiO2 anatase phase; the increase of diclofenac degradation was attributed to the textural properties of the composite, it avoids the filtering process since the separation can be achieved by magnetizing and/or decantation.

  9. High temperature phase transition of Tm2Ti2O7

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shlyakhtina, A.V.; Shcherbakova, L.G.; Knot'ko, A.V.; Larina, L.L.; Borichev, S.A.

    2004-01-01

    A high temperature phase transition type order-disorder is investigated in Tm 2 Ti 2 O 7 at t>1600 Deg C. It is shown that this transformation is irreversible. Ion conductivity of synthesized at 1670 Deg C nanocrystalline Tm 2 Ti 2 O 7 constitutes 2x10 -3 S/cm at 740 Deg C and remains constant after heat treatment at 860 Deg C for 240 h in the air. It is revealed that the conductivity of specimens (grain size of 20-30 nm) on the basis of Tm 2 Ti 2 O 7 high temperature modification with a structure of disordered pyrochlore is independent of grain size [ru

  10. Direct observation and analysis of york-shell materials using low-voltage high-resolution scanning electron microscopy: Nanometal-particles encapsulated in metal-oxide, carbon, and polymer

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shunsuke Asahina

    2014-11-01

    Full Text Available Nanometal particles show characteristic features in chemical and physical properties depending on their sizes and shapes. For keeping and further enhancing their features, the particles should be protected from coalescence or degradation. One approach is to encapsulate the nanometal particles inside pores with chemically inert or functional materials, such as carbon, polymer, and metal oxides, which contain mesopores to allow permeation of only chemicals not the nanometal particles. Recently developed low-voltage high-resolution scanning electron microscopy was applied to the study of structural, chemical, and electron state of both nanometal particles and encapsulating materials in york-shell materials of Au@C, Ru/Pt@C, Au@TiO2, and Pt@Polymer. Progresses in the following categories were shown for the york-shell materials: (i resolution of topographic image contrast by secondary electrons, of atomic-number contrast by back-scattered electrons, and of elemental mapping by X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy; (ii sample preparation for observing internal structures; and (iii X-ray spectroscopy such as soft X-ray emission spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy was also used for characterization of Au@C.

  11. Effect of Sr/Ti Ratio on the Photocatalytic Properties of SrTiO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sulaeman, U; Yin, S; Sato, T

    2011-01-01

    Since strontium titanate is a wide gap semiconductor, it requires UV light to generate the photocatalytic activities. Modification of strontium titanate to show photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation is the essential work to efficiently utilize the sun light energy for environmental application. It is expected that the synthesis of SrTiO 3 with variation of Sr/Ti atomic ratio could induce the defect crystals having unique photocatalytic properties. The SrTiO 3 with various Sr/Ti atomic ratios were synthesized by microwave-assisted solvothermal reaction of SrCl 2 .6H 2 O and Ti(OC 3 H 7 ) 4 in KOH aqueous solutions with different atomic ratios of Sr/Ti. The products were characterized by TG-DTA, XRD and DRS. The photocatalytic activity was determined by DeNO x ability using LED lamps with the wavelengths of 627 nm (red), 530 nm (green), 445 nm (blue) and 390 nm (UV). The nanoparticles of perovskite type SrTiO 3 with the particle size of 30-40 nm were successfully synthesized. The visible light responsive photocatalytic activity was generated by adding excess amount of Sr. The photocatalytic activity in visible light could be enhanced by an increase in the Sr/Ti atomic ratio up to 1.25, indicating that the visible light responsive photocatalytic activity is due to the generation of new band gap between the conduction band and valence band of SrTiO 3 by the formation of oxygen vacancy.

  12. Synthesis of the lithium metatitanate, Li2TiO3, by the modified combustion method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cruz, D.; Bulbulian, S.; Pfeiffer, H.

    2005-01-01

    A modified combustion method to obtain Li 2 TiO 3 it was used, a compound to be used in fusion reactors like tritium generator material. To obtain Li 2 TiO 3 were proven different molar ratios of lithium hydroxide (LiOH), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ) and urea (CO(NH 2 ) 2 ), as well as different heating temperatures (550, 650 and 750 C). The characterization of the products it was carried out using X-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy and Thermal gravimetric analysis. The sample prepared with a molar ratio Li: Ti: urea = 2.75: 1: 3 was the one that presented as only product the Li 2 TiO 3 . The particle size and the morphology found in the Li 2 TiO 3 , showed similar particle size and morphology to the TiO 2 used as precursor. (Author)

  13. Pt, Co–Pt and Fe–Pt alloy nanoclusters encapsulated in virus capsids

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Okuda, M; Eloi, J-C; Jones, S E Ward; Schwarzacher, W; Verwegen, M; Cornelissen, J J L M

    2016-01-01

    Nanostructured Pt-based alloys show great promise, not only for catalysis but also in medical and magnetic applications. To extend the properties of this class of materials, we have developed a means of synthesizing Pt and Pt-based alloy nanoclusters in the capsid of a virus. Pure Pt and Pt-alloy nanoclusters are formed through the chemical reduction of [PtCl 4 ] − by NaBH 4 with/without additional metal ions (Co or Fe). The opening and closing of the ion channels in the virus capsid were controlled by changing the pH and ionic strength of the solution. The size of the nanoclusters is limited to 18 nm by the internal diameter of the capsid. Their magnetic properties suggest potential applications in hyperthermia for the Co–Pt and Fe–Pt magnetic alloy nanoclusters. This study introduces a new way to fabricate size-restricted nanoclusters using virus capsid. (paper)

  14. Phase transformations during HLnTiO{sub 4} (Ln=La, Nd) thermolysis and photocatalytic activity of obtained compounds

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Silyukov, Oleg I., E-mail: olegsilyukov@yandex.ru; Abdulaeva, Liliia D.; Burovikhina, Alena A.; Rodionov, Ivan A.; Zvereva, Irina A.

    2015-03-15

    Layered HLnTiO{sub 4} (Ln=La, Nd) compounds belonging to Ruddlesden–Popper phases were found to form partially hydrated compounds Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}·xH{sub 2}O during thermal dehydration as well as defect oxides Ln{sub 2}□Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} as final products. Further heating of metastable defect Ln{sub 2}□Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} substances leads to the formation of pyrochlore-type oxides Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} {sub (p)}, with subsequent transformation under higher temperatures to stable layered 110-type perovskites Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}. The occurring structure transformations lead to an increase of photocatalytic activity in the order of HLnTiO{sub 4}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}·yH{sub 2}OTi{sub 2}O{sub 7}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} {sub (p)}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} in the reaction of hydrogen evolution from aqueous isopropanol solution. - Graphical abstract: Layered HLnTiO{sub 4} (Ln=La, Nd) compounds form partially hydrated Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}·xH{sub 2}O compounds during thermal dehydration, further heating results to the formation to defect oxides Ln{sub 2}□Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}, pyrochlor-type oxides Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} {sub (p)}, with subsequent transformation to layered 110-type perovskites Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}. Structure transformations lead to an increase of photocatalytic activity in the order of HLnTiO{sub 4}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}·yH{sub 2}OTi{sub 2}O{sub 7}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7} {sub (p)}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}. - Highlights: • We studied dehydration and further thermolysis of HLnTiO{sub 4} (Ln=La, Nd) compounds. • XRD, STA and solid state IR studies were carried out. • A new series of metastable Ln{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 7}·yH{sub 2}O compounds was obtained. • We examined the photocatalytic activity of all obtained compounds. The hydrogen evolution rate increased in the course of the structure changes during thermolysis.

  15. Influence of different TiO2 blocking films on the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Chenxi; Luo, Yudan; Chen, Xiaohong; Ou-Yang, Wei; Chen, Yiwei; Sun, Zhuo; Huang, Sumei

    2016-12-01

    Organolead trihalide perovskite materials have been successfully used as light absorbers in efficient photovoltaic (PV) cells. Cell structures based on mesoscopic metal oxides and planar heterojunctions have already demonstrated very impressive and brisk advances, holding great potential to grow into a mature PV technology. High power conversion efficiency (PCE) values have been obtained from the mesoscopic configuration in which a few hundred nano-meter thick mesoporous scaffold (e.g. TiO2 or Al2O3) infiltrated by perovskite absorber was sandwiched between the electron and hole transport layers. A uniform and compact hole-blocking layer is necessary for high efficient perovskite-based thin film solar cells. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of TiO2 compact layer using various methods and its effects on the PV performance of perovskite solar cells. TiO2 compact layer was prepared by a sol-gel method based on titanium isopropoxide and HCl, spin-coating of titanium diisopropoxide bis (acetylacetonate), screen-printing of Dyesol's bocking layer titania paste, and a chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique via hydrolysis of TiCl4, respectively. The morphological and micro-structural properties of the formed compact TiO2 layers were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The analyses of devices performance characteristics showed that surface morphologies of TiO2 compact films played a critical role in affecting the efficiencies. The nanocrystalline TiO2 film deposited via the CBD route acts as the most efficient hole-blocking layer and achieves the best performance in perovskite solar cells. The CBD-based TiO2 compact and dense layer offers a small series resistance and a large recombination resistance inside the device, and makes it possible to achieve a high power conversion efficiency of 12.80%.

  16. 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

  17. Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of Mo-Doped TiO2 Nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ji-guo Huang

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available The undoped and Mo-doped TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by sol-gel method. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, diffuse reflectance UV-visible absorption spectra (UV-vis DRS, X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under irradiation of a 500 W xenon lamp and natural solar light outdoor. Effects of calcination temperatures and Mo doping amounts on crystal phase, crystallite size, lattice distortion, and optical properties were investigated. The results showed that most of Mo6+ took the place of Ti4+ in the crystal lattice of TiO2, which inhibited the growth of crystallite size, suppressed the transformation from anatase to rutile, and led to lattice distortion of TiO2. Mo doping narrowed the band gap (from 3.05 eV of TiO2 to 2.73 eV of TiMo0.02O and efficiently increased the optical absorption in visible region. Mo doping was shown to be an efficient method for degradation of methylene blue under visible light, especially under solar light. When the calcination temperature was 550°C and the Mo doping amount was 2.0%, the Mo-doped TiO2 sample exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity.

  18. Structural and electrical characteristics of ZrO2-TiO2 thin films by sol-gel method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hsu, Cheng-Hsing; Tseng, Ching-Fang; Lai, Chun-Hung; Tung, Hsin-Han; Lin, Shih-Yao

    2010-01-01

    In this paper, we investigated electrical properties and microstructures of ZrTiO 4 (ZrO 2 -TiO 2 ) thin films prepared by the sol-gel method on ITO substrates at different annealing temperatures. All films exhibited ZrTiO 4 (1 1 1) and (1 0 1) orientations perpendicular to the substrate surface, and the grain size increased with increase in the annealing temperature. A low leakage current density of 2.06 x 10 -6 A/cm 2 was obtained for the prepared films. Considering the primary memory switching behavior of ZrTiO 4 , ReRAM based on ZrTiO 4 shows promise for future nonvolatile memory applications.

  19. Nanometer size wear debris generated from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene in vivo

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Lapčíková, Monika; Šlouf, Miroslav; Dybal, Jiří; Zolotarevova, E.; Entlicher, G.; Pokorný, D.; Gallo, J.; Sosna, A.

    2009-01-01

    Roč. 266, 1-2 (2009), s. 349-355 ISSN 0043-1648 R&D Projects: GA MŠk 2B06096 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z40500505 Keywords : ultra high molecular weight polyethylene * nanometer size wear debris * morphology of wear particles Subject RIV: CD - Macromolecular Chemistry Impact factor: 1.771, year: 2009

  20. Microstructure and dielectric parameters of epitaxial SrRuO3/BaTiO3/SrRuO3 heterostructures

    Science.gov (United States)

    Boikov, Yu. A.; Claeson, T.

    2001-05-01

    Epitaxial films of ferroelectric barium titanate are desirable in a number of applications but their properties are inferior to those of bulk material. Relations between microstructure and dielectric properties may give better understanding of limitations. Trilayer heterostructures SrRuO3/BaTiO3/SrRuO3 were grown by laser ablation on (100)LaAlO3 and (100)MgO substrates. The BaTiO3 layer was granular in structure. When grown on (100)SrRuO3/(100)LaAlO3, it was preferentially a-axis oriented due to tensile mechanical stress. Using (100)MgO as a substrate, on the other hand, produced a mixture of about equal value of a-axis and c-axis oriented grains of BaTiO3. The dielectric permittivity, ɛ, of the BaTiO3 layer was almost twice as large, at T>200 K and f=100 kHz, for the LaAlO3 substrate as compared to the MgO one. Its maximum value (ɛ/ɛ0≈6200) depended on temperature of growth, grain size, and electric field and compares well with optimal values commonly used for ceramic material. The maximum in the ɛ(T) shifted from about 370 to 320 K when the grain size in the BaTiO3 film decreased from 100 to 40 nm. At T300 K, hysteresis loops in polarization versus electric field were roughly symmetric. The BaTiO3 films grown on (100)SrRuO3/(100)MgO exhibit the largest remnant polarizations and coercive fields in the temperature range 100-380 K.

  1. Ab initio calculations of PbTiO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} (001) heterostructures

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Eglitis, R.I.; Piskunov, S.; Zhukovskii, Yu.F. [Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, 8 Kengaraga Str., 1063 Riga (Latvia)

    2016-12-15

    We performed ab initio calculations for the PbTiO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} (001) heterostructures. For both PbO and TiO{sub 2}-terminations of the PbTiO{sub 3} (001) thin film, augmented on the SrTiO{sub 3} (001) substrate, the magnitudes of atomic relaxations Δz increases as a function of the number of augmented monolayers. For both terminations of the augmented PbTiO{sub 3} (001) nanothin film, all upper, third and fifth monolayers are displaced inwards (Δz is negative), whereas all second, fourth and sixth monolayers are displaced outwards (Δz is positive). The B3PW calculated PbTiO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} (001) heterostructure band gaps, independently from the number of augmented layers, are always smaller than the PbTiO{sub 3} and SrTiO{sub 3} bulk band gaps. For both PbO and TiO{sub 2}-terminated PbTiO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3}(001) heterostructures, their band gaps are reduced due to the increased number of PbTiO{sub 3} (001) monolayers. The band gaps of PbO-terminated augmented PbTiO{sub 3} (001) films are always larger than those for TiO{sub 2}-terminated PbTiO{sub 3} (001) thin films. The only exception is the case of 7-layer PbO-terminated and 8-layer TiO{sub 2}-terminated augmented PbTiO{sub 3} (001) thin films, where their band gaps both are equal to 2.99 eV. For each monolayer of the SrTiO{sub 3} (001) substrate, charge magnitudes always are more than several times larger, than for each monolayer in the augmented PbTiO{sub 3} (001) thin film. (copyright 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  2. Desempeño de insertos de WC recubiertos con nanomulticapas de [TiN/TiAlN]n en el mecanizado del acero endurecido AISI 4340

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luis Henry Moreno

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available En el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados de la resistencia al desgaste de insertos de carburo de tungsteno (WC sin recubrir y recubiertos con multinanocapas de [TiN/TiAlN]n con un espesor total promedio del recubrimiento de 4 ¿m, así como de insertos recubiertos con monocapas comerciales de TiCN-Al2O3-TiN (TINAL. Se realizaron ensayos de vida útil, análisis de temperatura en la zona de corte, mediciones de rugosidad superfi cial sobre la pieza y sobre los insertos en la superfi cie de ataque, análisis de huella de contacto entre viruta-insertos y análisis de composición química (EDS. Los ensayos se realizaron sobre piezas de acero AISI 4340 utilizando régimen de corte de acabado y aplicando altas velocidades de corte (HSC. Los resultados de mecanizado de acero, para un recorrido de 8.000 metros con diferentes insertos de carburo de tungsteno (WC, sin recubrimiento y recubiertos presentaron valores de desgaste de 0,117 mm y 0,138 mm; en relación a los insertos recubiertos con 300 y 200 bicapas de TiN/TiAlN, respectivamente. De igual manera, los insertos recubiertos con TINAL exhibieron valores de desgaste de 0,174 mm. Además, los valores de temperatura en la zona de corte y para una velocidad de corte de 176,6 m/mim fueron de 522,6 oC para los recubrimientos con 300 bicapas, de 721,4 oC para aquellos con 200 bicapas, y de 1.327,6 oC para los insertos recubiertos con TINAL. La disminución de la temperatura en la zona de corte, relacionada con un menor coefi ciente de fricción y una menor fuerza de corte, contribuyeron al alargamiento de la vida útil de los insertos.

  3. HIDROGENACIÓN DE CROTONALDEHÍDO SOBRE CATALIZADORES Ir/TiO2-SiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    HUGO ROJAS

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available Se estudió la hidrogenación de crotonaldehído en fase líquida, sobre catalizadores Ir/TiO2-SiO2; este aldehído es altamente contaminante y proviene de fuentes tan diversas como humo de tabaco, gases de escape de motores de gasolina o diesel y humo de combustión de madera [1]. El objetivo principal de esta investigación fue la obtención del alcohol insaturado (crotil alcohol. A partir de los estudios realizados logró demostrarse que un aumento en el contenido de TiO2, lo mismo que la reducción de los catalizadores a altas temperaturas favorece parámetros como selectividad hacia el producto de interés, actividad catalítica y en general se logró mejorar de manera notable los niveles de conversión. El comportamiento observado se atribuyó principalmente a la fuerte influencia del efecto SMSI (Strong Metal Support Interaction, presente a altas temperaturas en óxidos parcialmente reducibles.

  4. Piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties of lead-free (1-x)(Na{sub 1−y}K{sub y})(Nb{sub 1−z}Sb{sub z})O{sub 3}-xBaTiO{sub 3} solid solution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sasikumar, S., E-mail: sasikuhan@gmail.com [Research Centre and Post Graduate Department of Physics, The Madura College, Madurai 625 011, Tamil Nadu (India); Saravanan, R. [Research Centre and Post Graduate Department of Physics, The Madura College, Madurai 625 011, Tamil Nadu (India); Aravinth, K. [SSN Research Center, SSN College of Engineering, Kalavakkam 603 110, Tamil Nadu (India)

    2017-05-01

    The solid solutions of lead-free (1-x)(Na{sub 1-y}K{sub y})(Nb{sub 1-z}Sb{sub z})O{sub 3}-xBaTiO{sub 3} (with x=0.1, 0.2; y=0.03, 0.05; z=0.05, 0.1) (abbreviated as (1-x)NKNS-xBT) ceramics have been synthesized using conventional solid-state reaction method. The results of X-ray diffraction analysis show that all the grown specimens of NKNS display typical perovskite structure. With BaTiO{sub 3} (BT) addition, a structural phase transition from tetragonal to cubic structure has been observed. The structural parameters of (1-x)NKNS-xBT powders were determined by profile refinements based on the analysis of X-ray powder diffraction. The charge density distributions of the prepared samples have been investigated by observed structure factors to understand the chemical bonding nature of (1-x)NKNS-xBT powders. The optical absorption of the ceramics has been investigated using UV–visible spectrophotometer. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) measurements were performed to study the surface morphology of the prepared solid solutions. The elemental compositions of the (1-x)NKNS-xBT samples were analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDS) spectrometer. The dielectric constant versus temperature plots of the solid solutions exhibit ferroelectric to paraelectric phase transition, which is dependent on the BaTiO{sub 3} content. The ferroelectric nature of the samples has been determined through polarization and electric field hysteresis measurements.

  5. Influence of TiO2 particle size and conductivity of the CuCrO2 ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    2017-11-28

    Nov 28, 2017 ... Solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells; sol–gel method; TiO2 nanoparticle; CuCrO2 nanoparticles; electrical ... The purpose of this work is construction and optimization .... can be attributed to the electron transport mechanism.

  6. Photocatalytic performance of nano-photocatalyst from TiO{sub 2} and Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} by mechanochemical synthesis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ghorai, Tanmay K., E-mail: tanmay_ghorai@yahoo.co.in [Department of Chemistry, West Bengal State University, Barasat, North 24 Pgs, Kolkata 700126 (India); Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302 (India); Chakraborty, Mukut [Department of Chemistry, West Bengal State University, Barasat, North 24 Pgs, Kolkata 700126 (India); Pramanik, Panchanan [Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302 (India)

    2011-08-11

    Graphical abstract: Nano-particles of homogeneous solution between TiO{sub 2} and Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (up to 5 mol%) have been prepared by mechanochemical milling. The results show that the alloy of TiO{sub 2} with 5 mol% of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (YFT1) exhibit photocatalytic activity 3-5 times higher than that of P25 TiO{sub 2} for oxidation of various dyes (RB, MO, TB and BG) under visible light irradiation. The average particle size and crystallite size of YFT1 were found to be 30 {+-} 5 nm and 12 nm measured from TEM and XRD. Optical adsorption edge is found to be 2.26 eV. Tentative schematic diagram of reaction mechanism of YFT/RFT photocatalysts under visible light irradiation. Highlights: > Synthesis of nano-sized homogeneous solid solution between Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} with high photocatalytic activity for oxidative degradation of different dyes was successfully obtained through mechanochemical synthesis. XRD data shows the formation of solid solution having anatase structure with no free Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} up to 5 mol% of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} catalyst have crystallite size about 12-13 nm measured from XRD and particle size about 30 {+-} 5 nm measured from TEM. FT-IR of all Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} prepared catalysts is similar to pure TiO{sub 2}. The maximum solubility of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} in TiO{sub 2} is 5 mol% of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} irrespective of source and this composition has highest photocatalytic activity that is 3-5 times higher than P25 TiO{sub 2} for the oxidation of different dyes. We also observed that the rate of degradation of Rhodamine B is faster among all the four dyes under prepared catalyst and visible light. - Abstract: Nano-particles of homogeneous solid solution between TiO{sub 2} and Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (up to 10 mol%) have been prepared by mechanochemical milling of TiO{sub 2} and yellow Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/red Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/precipitated Fe (OH){sub 3} using a planetary ball mill. Such novel solid

  7. New roots to formation of nanostructures on glass surface through anodic oxidation of sputtered aluminum

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Satoru Inoue, Song-Zhu Chu, Kenji Wada, Di Li and Hajime Haneda

    2003-01-01

    Full Text Available New processes for the preparation of nanostructure on glass surfaces have been developed through anodic oxidation of sputtered aluminum. Aluminum thin film sputtered on a tin doped indium oxide (ITO thin film on a glass surface was converted into alumina by anodic oxidation. The anodic alumina gave nanometer size pore array standing vertically on the glass surface. Kinds of acids used in the anodic oxidation changed the pore size drastically. The employment of phosphoric acid solution gave several tens nanometer size pores. Oxalic acid cases produced a few tens nanometer size pores and sulfuric acid solution provided a few nanometer size pores. The number of pores in a unit area could be changed with varying the applied voltage in the anodization and the pore sizes could be increased by phosphoric acid etching. The specimen consisting of a glass substrate with the alumina nanostructures on the surface could transmit UV and visible light. An etched specimen was dipped in a TiO2 sol solution, resulting in the impregnation of TiO2 sol into the pores of alumina layer. The TiO2 sol was heated at ~400 °C for 2 h, converting into anatase phase TiO2. The specimens possessing TiO2 film on the pore wall were transparent to the light in UV–Visible region. The electro deposition technique was applied to the introduction of Ni metal into pores, giving Ni nanorod array on the glass surface. The removal of the barrier layer alumina at the bottom of the pores was necessary to attain smooth electro deposition of Ni. The photo catalytic function of the specimens possessing TiO2 nanotube array was investigated in the decomposition of acetaldehyde gas under the irradiation of UV light, showing that the rate of the decomposition was quite large.

  8. The comparison of photocatalytic activity of synthesized TiO2 and ZrO2 nanosize onto wool fibers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Moafi, Hadi Fallah; Shojaie, Abdollah Fallah; Zanjanchi, Mohammad Ali

    2010-01-01

    TiO 2 and ZrO 2 nanocrystals were successfully synthesized and deposited onto wool fibers using the sol-gel technique at low temperature. The photocatalytic activities of TiO 2 -coated and ZrO 2 -coated wool fibers were measured by studying photodegradation of methylene blue and eosin yellowish dyes. The initial and the treated samples were characterized by several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and X-ray diffraction. The TEM study shows dispersed particles with 10-30 nm in size for TiO 2 -coated and 20-40 nm in size for ZrO 2 -coated samples on the fiber surface. Comparison of the photocatalytic activity of the coated samples reveals superiority of TiO 2 modified sample with respect to that of ZrO 2 for degradation of both dyes. Our observations indicate that by applying this technique to the fabrics, self-cleaning materials could be designed for practical application.

  9. Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of Ce-doped TiO2 and TiO2 nanotubes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Arruda, L.B.; Pereira, E.A.; Paula, F.R.; Lisboa Filho, P.N.

    2016-01-01

    Full text: One-dimensional nanostructures have been intensively studied, from the point of view of their synthesis and mechanisms of formation, as well as their applications in photonics, solar energy conversion, environmental and photocatalysis, since their properties due high surface area, electrical conductivity and light dispersion effects. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been demonstrated to be an effective multifunctional material especially when the particle size is less than 50 nm exhibit photoinduced activities that originate from the semiconductor band gap. TiO2 is semiconductor more used in photocatalysis, for this reason various properties have been thoroughly investigated in order to show that the photocatalytic activity and TiO2 reaction mechanism are influenced by structure, defects and impurities, surface morphology. and interfaces in addition to the concentration of dopants, such as rare-earth elements. Cerium ions, for example, vary between Ce4+ and Ce3 + oxidation state making the cerium oxide appear as CeO2 and Ce2O3 under oxidation and reduction conditions. These different electronic structures of Ce3+ (4f15d0) and Ce4+ (4f05d0) provide different catalytic and optical properties at the TiO2. In this work, samples of Ce-doped TiO2 and TiO2 were synthesized by alkali route, and its photocatalytic activity analyzed in order to create a relationship between the response obtained and the structure and morphology of each sample. Alkali route consists in submitting TiO2 (anatase) powder directly in medium of the NaOH (10M) and maintained at 120°C/20 hours by a glycerin bath with subsequent washed with water and HCl (0.1M) until reaching the desired pH. The synthesized samples were then studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The photocatalytic decomposition of rhodamine B (Rh.B) it was performed under UV irradiation and visible light in air. For the obtained

  10. Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of Ce-doped TiO2 and TiO2 nanotubes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Arruda, L.B.; Pereira, E.A.; Paula, F.R.; Lisboa Filho, P.N. [Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), SP (Brazil)

    2016-07-01

    Full text: One-dimensional nanostructures have been intensively studied, from the point of view of their synthesis and mechanisms of formation, as well as their applications in photonics, solar energy conversion, environmental and photocatalysis, since their properties due high surface area, electrical conductivity and light dispersion effects. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been demonstrated to be an effective multifunctional material especially when the particle size is less than 50 nm exhibit photoinduced activities that originate from the semiconductor band gap. TiO2 is semiconductor more used in photocatalysis, for this reason various properties have been thoroughly investigated in order to show that the photocatalytic activity and TiO2 reaction mechanism are influenced by structure, defects and impurities, surface morphology. and interfaces in addition to the concentration of dopants, such as rare-earth elements. Cerium ions, for example, vary between Ce4+ and Ce3 + oxidation state making the cerium oxide appear as CeO2 and Ce2O3 under oxidation and reduction conditions. These different electronic structures of Ce3+ (4f15d0) and Ce4+ (4f05d0) provide different catalytic and optical properties at the TiO2. In this work, samples of Ce-doped TiO2 and TiO2 were synthesized by alkali route, and its photocatalytic activity analyzed in order to create a relationship between the response obtained and the structure and morphology of each sample. Alkali route consists in submitting TiO2 (anatase) powder directly in medium of the NaOH (10M) and maintained at 120°C/20 hours by a glycerin bath with subsequent washed with water and HCl (0.1M) until reaching the desired pH. The synthesized samples were then studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The photocatalytic decomposition of rhodamine B (Rh.B) it was performed under UV irradiation and visible light in air. For the obtained

  11. Improved conversion efficiency of dye sensitized solar cell using Zn doped TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} nanocomposite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tomar, Laxmi J., E-mail: laxmi-tomar86@yahoo.com; Bhatt, Piyush J.; Desai, Rahul K.; Chakrabarty, B. S.; Panchal, C. J. [Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, The M. S. University of Baroda, Vadodara, India-390003 (India)

    2016-05-23

    TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} and Zn doped TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} nanocomposites were prepared by hydrothermal method for dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. The structural and optical properties were investigated by X –ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-Visible spectroscopy respectively. XRD results revealed the formation of material in nano size. The average crystallite size is 22.32 nm, 17.41 nm and 6.31 nm for TiO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} and Zn doped TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} nanocomposites respectively. The optical bandgap varies from 2.04 eV to 3.75 eV. Dye sensitized solar cells were fabricated using the prepared material. Pomegranate juice was used as a sensitizer and graphite coated conducting glass plate was used as counter electrode. The I – V characteristics were recorded to measure photo response of DSSC. Photovoltaic parameter like open circuit voltage, power conversion efficiency, and fill factor were evaluated for fabricated solar cell. The power conversion efficiency of DSSC fabricated with TiO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} and Zn doped TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} nanocomposites were found 0.71%, 1.97% and 4.58% respectively.

  12. Oxygen-storage behavior and local structure in Ti-substituted YMnO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Levin, I., E-mail: igor.levin@nist.gov [National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 (United States); Krayzman, V.; Vanderah, T.A. [National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 (United States); Tomczyk, M. [Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Wu, H. [National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 (United States); Tucker, M.G. [Spallation Neutron Source, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN (United States); Playford, H.Y. [ISIS Facility, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, Oxford (United Kingdom); Woicik, J.C.; Dennis, C.L. [National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 (United States); Vilarinho, P.M. [Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal)

    2017-02-15

    Hexagonal manganates RMnO{sub 3} (R=Y, Ho, Dy) have been recently shown to exhibit oxygen-storage capacities promising for three-way catalysts, air-separation, and related technologies. Here, we demonstrate that Ti substitution for Mn can be used to chemically tune the oxygen-breathing properties of these materials towards practical applications. Specifically, Y(Mn{sub 1−x}Ti{sub x})O{sub 3} solid solutions exhibit facile oxygen absorption/desorption via reversible Ti{sup 3+}↔Ti{sup 4+} and Mn{sup 3+}↔Mn{sup 4+} reactions already in ambient air at ≈400 °C and ≈250 °C, respectively. On cooling, the oxidation of both cations is accompanied by oxygen uptake yielding a formula YMn{sup 3+}{sub 1−x-y}Mn{sup 4+}{sub y}Ti{sup 4+}{sub x}O{sub 3+δ}. The presence of Ti promotes the oxidation of Mn{sup 3+} to Mn{sup 4+}, which is almost negligible for YMnO{sub 3} in air, thereby increasing the uptake of oxygen beyond that required for a given Ti{sup 4+} concentration. The reversibility of the redox reactions is limited by sluggish kinetics; however, the oxidation process continues, if slowly, even at room temperature. The extra oxygen atoms are accommodated by the large interstices within a triangular lattice formed by the [MnO{sub 5}] trigonal bipyramids. According to bond distances from Rietveld refinements using the neutron diffraction data, the YMnO{sub 3} structure features under-bonded Mn and even more severely under-bonded oxygen atoms that form the trigonal bases of the [MnO{sub 5}] bipyramids. The tensile bond strain around the 5-fold coordinated Mn site and the strong preference of Ti{sup 4+}(and Mn{sup 4+}) for higher coordination numbers likely provide driving forces for the oxidation reaction. Reverse Monte Carlo refinements of the local atomic displacements using neutron total scattering revealed how the excess oxygen atoms are accommodated in the structure by correlated local displacements of the host atoms. Large displacements of the under

  13. Effect of deposition temperature of TiO2 on the piezoelectric property of PbTiO3 film grown by PbO gas phase reaction sputtering

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kim, Jiyoon; Kim, Yunseok; Park, Moonkyu; No, Kwangsoo; Hong, Seungbum; Buehlmann, Simon; Kim, Yong Kwan

    2010-01-01

    A 17 nm thick PbTiO 3 (PTO) films were fabricated via PbO gas phase reaction with TiO 2 starting layer in a sputtering chamber. The influence of deposition temperature of TiO 2 on the piezoelectric properties of PTO thin films was investigated. The remnant piezoresponse of PTO films nonlinearly increased as a function of TiO 2 deposition temperature, which is correlated with the increase in average grain diameter of PTO film. As grain size increases, the restriction on remnant piezoresponse imposed by the grain boundary via coupling between local strain and polarization becomes less pronounced, which results in the increase in remnant piezoresponse. Furthermore, we found that the vertical shift in piezoresponse hysteresis loops is closely related to the residual stress state. A strong correlation between the negative vertical shift and the residual tensile stress reveals that residual stress on the resulting PTO film contributed to the asymmetric piezoelectric property.

  14. The effect of microemulsion composition on the morphology of Pd nanoparticles deposited at the surface of TiO{sub 2} and photoactivity of Pd-TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Długokęcka, Marta [Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Łuczak, Justyna, E-mail: justyna.luczak@pg.gda.pl [Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Polkowska, Żaneta [Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Zaleska-Medynska, Adriana, E-mail: adriana.zaleska@ug.edu.pl [Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, ul. Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdansk (Poland)

    2017-05-31

    Highlights: • Pd was deposited on TiO{sub 2} surface via microemulsion route (water-to-cyclohexane system). • Reaction parameters influencing the size distribution of Pd nanoparticles was investigated. • Photocatalytic activity was maximized at average droplet size of 2.83 ± 0.18 nm. • Superoxide radical was the dominant oxidizing species in the phenol degradation. - Abstract: A series of microemulsion (ME) system, constituted by different water to surfactant molar ratios (W{sub o}) and oil to surfactant mass ratios (S), have been applied for Pd-TiO{sub 2} preparation. The effect of ME properties on the morphology of Pd nanoparticles formed at TiO{sub 2} surface and an effect of Pd size and distribution on the surface and photocatalytic properties of Pd-TiO{sub 2} were investigated. Microemulsion systems were characterized by means of viscosity, density, dynamic light scattering as well as surface tension measurements to find a correlation between the conditions of Pd nanoparticles formation, their morphology and photocatalyst features. The photocatalysts were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV–vis diffuse-reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), BET surface area and elemental analysis. The photocatalytic properties of Pd-modified TiO{sub 2} particles were studied in a model reaction of phenol photodegradation under Vis irradiation, as well as active species involved in the photocatalytic reaction were determined. Microemulsion composition was found to be a crucial parameter in determining the features of the TiO{sub 2}-based photocatalysts covered by metallic nanoparticles. The highest photocatalytic activity under Vis radiation was observed for the Pd-TiO{sub 2} sample (average diameter 2.4 nm) obtained using 0.1 mol% Pd in the ME system containing 1.5 wt% of water and 82.8 wt% of cyclohexane with average droplet size of 2.83 ± 0.18 nm. In this regard, synthesis of such metal-semiconductor composites

  15. Thermoelectric Properties in the TiO2/SnO2 System

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dynys, F.; Sayir, A.; Sehirlioglu, A.; Berger, M.

    2009-01-01

    Nanotechnology has provided a new interest in thermoelectric technology. A thermodynamically driven process is one approach in achieving nanostructures in bulk materials. TiO2/SnO2 system exhibits a large spinodal region with exceptional stable phase separated microstructures up to 1400 C. Fabricated TiO2/SnO2 nanocomposites exhibit n-type behavior with Seebeck coefficients greater than -300 .V/K. Composites exhibit good thermal conductance in the range of 7 to 1 W/mK. Dopant additions have not achieved high electrical conductivity (<1000 S/m). Formation of oxygen deficient composites, TixSn1-xO2-y, can change the electrical conductivity by four orders of magnitude. Achieving higher thermoelectric ZT by oxygen deficiency is being explored. Seebeck coeffcient, thermal conductivity, electrical conductance and microstructure will be discussed in relation to composition and doping.

  16. Photocatalytic properties and selective antimicrobial activity of TiO2(Eu)/CuO nanocomposite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Michal, Robert; Dworniczek, Ewa; Caplovicova, Maria; Monfort, Olivier; Lianos, Panagiotis; Caplovic, Lubomir; Plesch, Gustav

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Nanocomposites composed of Eu-doped anatase grafted with CuO. • Increase in photocatalytic hydrogen production due to CuO acting as electrons sink. • CuO in composites decreasing the photoinduced total mineralization of phenol. • Selective photoinduced antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus species. - Abstract: TiO 2 (Eu)/CuO nanocomposites were prepared by precipitation method. The anatase nanocrystallites with a size of 26 nm exhibited well crystallized and characteristical dipyramidal morphology and {1 0 1} and {0 0 1} faceting. Transmission electron microscopy photographs with atomic resolution showed that the Eu(III) dopants were bounded on surface of titania. In the composites, the CuO nanocrystals exhibiting a monoclinic tenorite structure with a size in the range from 2 to 5 nm were grafted to the surface of titania. The influence of copper(II) oxide led to distinct selectivity in the photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of the investigated TiO 2 (Eu)/CuO nanocomposites. While the presence of CuO nanocrystals strongly increased the photocatalytic production of hydrogen by ethanol reforming, it decreased the activity in photoinduced total mineralization of phenol comparing with non-modified TiO 2 (Eu). In investigated TiO 2 (Eu)/CuO powders, the photoinduced antimicrobial activity against membranes of Enterococcus species was influenced by the selective binding of CuO to the surface of the microorganism leading to distinct selectivity in their action. The activity against Enterococcus faecalis was higher than against Enterococcus faecium.

  17. Rietveld refinement of KLaTiO4 from X-ray powder data

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Bai-Chuan Zhu

    2011-04-01

    Full Text Available Potassium lanthanum titanate(IV, KLaTiO4, has been synthesized by conventional solid-state reaction. It crystallizes isotypically with the NaLnTiO4 (Ln = La, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Y and Lu family. Five of the six atoms in the asymmetric unit (one K, one La, one Ti and two O atoms are situated on sites with 4mm symmetry, whereas one O atom has 2mm. site symmetry. The crystal structure can be described as being composed of single layers of distorted corner-sharing TiO6 octahedra extending parallel to (001. The layers are alternately separated by K+ and La3+ cations along [001]. The coordination number of both K+ and La3+ cations is nine, resulting in distorted KO9 and LaO9 polyhedra.

  18. Ab initio R1 mechanism of photostimulated oxygen isotope exchange reaction on a defect TiO{sub 2} surface: The case of terminal oxygen atom exchange

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kevorkyants, Ruslan, E-mail: ruslan.kevorkyants@gmail.com; Sboev, Mikhail N.; Chizhov, Yuri V.

    2017-05-01

    Highlights: • DFT R1 mechanism of photostimulated oxygen isotope exchange between {sup 16}O{sup 18}O and terminal oxygen atom of a defect surface of nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} is proposed. • The mechanism involves four adsorption intermediates and five transition states. • Activation energy of the reaction is 0.24 eV. • G-tensors of O{sub 3}{sup −} intermediates match EPR data on O{sub 2} adsorbed on UV-irradiated TiO{sub 2} surface. - Abstract: Based on density functional theory we propose R1 mechanism of photostimulated oxygen isotope exchange (POIEx) reaction between {sup 16}O{sup 18}O and terminal oxygen atom of a defect TiO{sub 2} surface, which is modeled by amorphous Ti{sub 8}O{sub 16} nanocluster in excited S{sup 1} electronic state. The proposed mechanism involves four adsorption intermediates and five transition states. The computed activation energy of the POIEx equals 0.24 eV. The computed g-tensors of the predicted ozonide O{sub 3}{sup −} chemisorption species match well EPR data on O{sub 2} adsorption on UV-irradiated nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2}. This match serves a mean of justification of the proposed R1 mechanism of the POIEx reaction. In addition, it is found that the proposed R1 POIEx reaction’s mechanism differs from R1 mechanism of thermo-assisted OIEx reaction on a surface of supported vanadium oxide catalyst VO{sub x}/TiO{sub 2} reported earlier.

  19. Effect of TiN-ZrO{sub 2} intermediate layer on the microstructure and magnetic properties of FePt and FePt-SiO{sub 2}-C thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dong, K.F., E-mail: dongkf1981@163.com; Mo, W.Q.; Jin, F.; Song, J.L.

    2017-06-15

    Highlights: • The TiN-ZrO{sub 2} consisted of solid solution of Ti(Zr)ON segregated by amorphous ZrO{sub 2}. • With doping ZrO{sub 2} into TiN layer, grain size of FePt films significantly decreased. • By introducing TiN-ZrO{sub 2}/TiN combined layer, the magnetic properties were improved. - Abstract: The microstructures and magnetic properties of FePt based thin films grown on TiN-ZrO{sub 2} and TiN-ZrO{sub 2}/TiN intermediate layers were systematically investigated. The TiN-ZrO{sub 2} intermediate layer was granular consisting of grains of solid solution of Ti(Zr)ON segregated by amorphous ZrO{sub 2}. It was found with doping ZrO{sub 2} into TiN intermediate layer, grain size of FePt-SiO{sub 2}-C films significantly decreased. Simultaneously, the isolation was obviously improved and grain size distribution became more uniform. However, the magnetic properties of the FePt-SiO{sub 2}-C films grown on TiN-ZrO{sub 2} intermediate layers were slowly deteriorated, which was due to the disturbance of the epitaxial growth of FePt by amorphous ZrO{sub 2} in TiN-ZrO{sub 2} intermediate layer. In order to improve the TiN-ZrO{sub 2} (0 0 2) texture and the crystallinity of TiN-ZrO{sub 2}, TiN-ZrO{sub 2}/TiN combined intermediate layer was introduced. And the magnetic properties were improved, simultaneously, achieving the benefit of grain size reduction. For the FePt 4 nm-SiO{sub 2} 40 vol%-C 20 vol% film grown on TiN/TiN-ZrO{sub 2} 30 vol% combined intermediate layer, well isolated FePt (0 0 1) granular films with coercivity higher than 17.6 kOe and an average size as small as 6.5 nm were achieved.

  20. Nanometer scale materials - characterization and fabrication

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Murday, J.S.; Colton, R.J.; Rath, B.B.

    1993-01-01

    Materials and solid state scientists have made excellent progress in understanding material behavior in length scales from microns to meters. Below a micron, the lack of analytical prowess has been a deterrent. At the atomic scale, chemistry and atomic/molecular physics have also contributed significant understanding of matter. The maturity of these three communities, materials, solid state physics, atomic/molecular physics/chemistry, coupled with the development of analytical capability for nanometer-sized structures, promises to broaden our grasp of materials behavior into the last realm of unexplored size scales-nanometer. The motivation for this effort is driven both by the expectation of novel properties as well as by the potential solution to long standing technological issues. Critical scale lengths for many material properties fall in the nanometer range, examples include superconductor coherence lengths, electron inelastic mean free paths, electron wavelengths in solids, critical lengths for dislocation generation. Structures of nanometer size will undoubtedly show behavior unexpected from experience at the larger and smaller scales. Many technological problems such as adhesion, friction, corrosion, elasticity and fracture are believed to depend critically on nanometer scale phenomena. The millennia-old efforts to improve materials behavior have undoubtedly been slowed by our inability to 'observe' in this size range. (orig.)