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Sample records for sub-50 nm particles

  1. Size-resolved fluxes of sub-100-nm particles over forests

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Pryor, Sara; Barthelmie, Rebecca Jane; Spaulding, A.M.

    2009-01-01

    Dry deposition of atmospheric particles is critically dependent on particle size and plays a key role in dictating the mass and number distributions of atmospheric particles. However, modeling dry deposition is constrained by a lack of understanding of controlling dependencies and accurate size......-resolved observations. We present size-resolved particle number fluxes for sub-100-nm particle diameters (Dp) over a deciduous forest derived using eddy covariance applied to data from a fast mobility particle sizer. The size-resolved particle number fluxes in 18 diameters between 8 and 100 nm were collected during...... leaf-on and are statistically robust. Particle deposition velocities normalized by friction velocity (v d +) are approximately four times smaller than comparable values for coniferous forests reported elsewhere. Comparison of the data with output from a new one-dimensional mechanistic particle...

  2. Nucleation and growth of sub-3 nm particles in the polluted urban atmosphere of a megacity in China

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    H. Yu

    2016-03-01

    Full Text Available Particle size distribution down to 1.4 nm was measured in the urban atmosphere of Nanjing, China, in spring, summer, and winter during 2014–2015. Sub-3 nm particle event, which is equivalent to nucleation event, occurred on 42 out of total 90 observation days, but new particles could grow to cloud condensation nuclei (CCN-active sizes on only 9 days. In summer, infrequent nucleation was limited by both unfavorable meteorological conditions (high temperature and relative humidity – RH and reduced anthropogenic precursor availability due to strict emission control measures during the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing. The limiting factors for nucleation in winter and spring were meteorological conditions (radiation, temperature, and RH and condensation sink, but for the further growth of sub-3 nm particles to CCN-active sizes, anthropogenic precursors again became limiting factors. Nucleation events were strong in the polluted urban atmosphere. Initial J1.4 at the onset and peak J1.4 at the noontime could be up to 2.1 × 102 and 2.5 × 103 cm−3 s−1, respectively, during the eight nucleation events selected from different seasons. Time-dependent J1.4 usually showed good linear correlations with a sulfuric acid proxy for every single event (R2 = 0.56–0.86, excluding a day with significant nocturnal nucleation, but the correlation among all eight events deteriorated (R2 =  0.17 due to temperature or season change. We observed that new particle growth rate (GR did not increase monotonically with particle size, but had a local maximum up to 25 nm h−1 between 1 and 3 nm. The existence of local maxima GR in sub-3 nm size range, though sensitive to measurement uncertainties, gives new insight into cluster dynamics in polluted environments. In this study such growth rate behavior was interpreted as the solvation effect of organic activating vapor in newly formed inorganic nuclei.

  3. Study on the oxidation and reduction of tungsten surface for sub-50 nm patterning process

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Jong Kyu; Nam, Seok Woo; Cho, Sung Il; Jhon, Myung S.; Min, Kyung Suk; Kim, Chan Kyu; Jung, Ho Bum; Yeom, Geun Young [Memory Division Semiconductor Business, Samsung Electronics, San No. 16 Banwol-Ri, Taean-Eup, Hwasung-City, Gyeonggi-Do 449-711, South Korea and Department of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 440-746 (Korea, Republic of); Memory Division Semiconductor Business, Samsung Electronics, San No. 16 Banwol-Ri, Taean-Eup, Hwasung-City, Gyeonggi-Do 449-711 (Korea, Republic of); Department of Chemical Engineering and Data Storage Systems Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 (United States); Department of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 440-746 (Korea, Republic of)

    2012-11-15

    The oxidation characteristics of tungsten line pattern during the carbon-based mask-layer removal process using oxygen plasmas have been investigated for sub-50 nm patterning processes, in addition to the reduction characteristics of the WO{sub x} layer formed on the tungsten line surface using hydrogen plasmas. The surface oxidation of tungsten lines during the mask layer removal process could be minimized by using low-temperature (300 K) plasma processing for the removal of the carbon-based material. Using this technique, the thickness of WO{sub x} on the tungsten line could be decreased to 25% compared to results from high-temperature processing. The WO{sub x} layer could also be completely removed at a low temperature of 300 K using a hydrogen plasma by supplying bias power to the tungsten substrate to provide a activation energy for the reduction. When this oxidation and reduction technique was applied to actual 40-nm-CD device processing, the complete removal of WO{sub x} formed on the sidewall of tungsten line could be observed.

  4. Generation of MoS{sub 2} quantum dots by laser ablation of MoS{sub 2} particles in suspension and their photocatalytic activity for H{sub 2} generation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Baldoví, Herme G.; Latorre-Sánchez, Marcos; Esteve-Adell, Iván [Universitat Politècnica de València, Instituto Universitario de Tecnología Química CSIC-UPV and Departamento de Química (Spain); Khan, Anish; Asiri, Abdullah M. [King Abdulaziz University, Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials Research (Saudi Arabia); Kosa, Samia A. [King Abdulaziz University, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science (Saudi Arabia); Garcia, Hermenegildo, E-mail: hgarcia@qim.upv.es [Universitat Politècnica de València, Instituto Universitario de Tecnología Química CSIC-UPV and Departamento de Química (Spain)

    2016-08-15

    MoS{sub 2} quantum dots (QDs) have been obtained in colloidal suspensions by 532 nm laser ablation (7 ns fwhp/pulse, 50 mJ/pulse) of commercial MoS{sub 2} particles in acetonitrile. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images show a lateral size distribution from 5 to 20 nm, but a more homogeneous particle size of 20 nm can be obtained by silica gel chromatography purification in acetonitrile. MoS{sub 2} QDs obtained by laser ablation are constituted by 3–6 MoS{sub 2} layers (1.8–4 nm thickness) and exhibit photoluminescence whose λ{sub PL} varies from 430 to 530 nm depending on the excitation wavelength. As predicted by theory, the confinement effect and the larger periphery in MoS{sub 2} QDs increasing the bandgap and having catalytically active edges are reflected in an enhancement of the photocatalytic activity for H{sub 2} generation upon UV–Vis irradiation using CH{sub 3}OH as sacrificial electron donor due to the increase in the reduction potential of conduction band electrons and the electron transfer kinetics.

  5. Optical properties change in Te diffused As{sub 50}Se{sub 50} chalcogenide thin film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Naik, Ramakanta; Behera, M.; Panda, R.; Mishra, N. C. [Department of Physics, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, 751004, Odisha (India)

    2016-05-23

    In the present report, we present the effect of Te diffusion into As{sub 50}Se{sub 50} thin film which changes the optical properties. The Te/As{sub 50}Se{sub 50} film was irradiated by a laser beam of 532 nm to study the diffusion mechanism due to photo induced effect. The As{sub 50}Se{sub 50}, Te/As{sub 50}Se{sub 50} films show a completely amorphous nature from X-ray diffraction study. A non direct transition was found for these films on the basis of optical transmission data carried out by Fourier Transform infrared Spectroscopy. The optical bandgap is found to be decreased with Te deposition and photo darkening phenomena is observed for the diffused film. The change in the optical constants are well supported by the corresponding change in different types of bonds which are being studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

  6. Flat super-oscillatory lens for heat-assisted magnetic recording with sub-50 nm resolution.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yuan, Guanghui; Rogers, Edward T F; Roy, Tapashree; Shen, Zexiang; Zheludev, Nikolay I

    2014-03-24

    Heat-assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) is a future roadmap technology to overcome the superparamagnetic limit in high density magnetic recording. Existing HAMR schemes depend on a simultaneous magnetic stimulation and light-induced local heating of the information carrier. To achieve high-density recorded data, near-field plasmonic transducers have been proposed as light concentrators. Here we suggest and investigate in detail an alternative approach exploiting a far-field focusing device that can focus light into sub-50 nm hot-spots in the magnetic recording layer using a laser source operating at 473 nm. It is based on a recently introduced super-oscillatory flat lens improved with the use of solid immersion, giving an effective numerical aperture as high as 4.17. The proposed solution is robust and easy to integrate with the magnetic recording head thus offering a competitive advantage over plasmonic technology.

  7. Magnetic spin configuration in Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fenske, J.; Lott, D.; Schreyer, A. [GKSS Research Centre (Germany); Mankey, G.J. [University of Alabama, MINT Center (United States); Schmidt, W.; Schmalzl, K. [Juelich Research Centre (Germany); Tartakowskaya, E. [Institute for Magnetism, National Ukrainian Accademy of Science (Ukraine)

    2010-07-01

    FePt-based alloys are typically the material of choice for magnetic information storage media. The high magnetic moment of Fe gives a large magnetization and the large atomic number of Pt results in a high magnetic anisotropy. This combination enables the written bits to be smaller than ever before. One way to control the magnetic properties in these materials is through the introduction of a third element into the crystal matrix e.g. Rh. When Rh is added to replace Pt in the equiatomic alloy, new magnetic phases emerge. Bulk samples of Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} studied by magnetization measurements refer to three different phase transitions with increasing temperature: (I) An antiferromagnetic (AF)-paramagnetic (PM) transition for 30nm Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} films with different Rh concentrations. These films were examined by neutron diffraction in dependence of temperature and magnetic field. By the use of polarized and unpolarized neutron diffraction we could develop a detailed model of the magnetic spin structure in these thin films.

  8. Perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of non-epitaxial hexagonal Co{sub 50}Pt{sub 50} thin films prepared at room temperature

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yuan, F.T., E-mail: ftyuan@gmail.com [iSentek Ltd., Advanced Sensor Laboratory, New Taipei City 22101, Taiwan (China); Chang, H.W., E-mail: wei0208@gmail.com [Department of Applied Physics, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan (China); Lee, P.Y.; Chang, C.Y. [Department of Applied Physics, Tunghai University, Taichung 40704, Taiwan (China); Chi, C.C. [Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan (China); Ouyang, H., E-mail: houyang@mx.nthu.edu.tw [Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan (China)

    2015-04-15

    Highlights: • In this paper, we propose a non-epitaxially grown PMA thin film of disorder hexagonal Co{sub 50}Pt{sub 50} which can satisfy all the requirements at once. • Although the preparation temperature is at room temperature and no post annealing is required, the film also shows good thermal stability up to 400 °C. • Moreover, the easy-controlling single layer deposition process of the film largely enhances the feasibility of practical production. • Significant PMA is achieved in a wide range of film thickness from 2 nm to 20 nm, which expands the usage form a GMR or TMR magnetic junctions to perpendicular spin polarizer for spin current related engineering. • The presented results may open new opportunities for advanced spintronic devices. - Abstract: Non-epitaxially induced perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) of Co{sub 50}Pt{sub 50} thin films at room temperature (RT) is reported. The CoPt film having a disordered hcp structure shows a magnetocrystalline anisotropy (K{sub u}{sup RT}) of 1–2 × 10{sup 6} erg/cm{sup 3} in a wide range of layer thickness from 2 to 20 nm. K{sub u}{sup RT} of about 1 × 10{sup 6} erg/cm{sup 3} can be preserved after a 400 °C-thermal cycle in the 5-nm-thick sample. Moderate PMA, large thickness range, simple preparation process, low formation temperature but good thermal stability make presented hcp CoPt become a remarkable option for advanced spintronic devices.

  9. Influence of composition on optical and dispersion parameters of thermally evaporated non-crystalline Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hassanien, A.S., E-mail: a.s.hassanien@gmail.com [Engineering Mathematics and Physics Dept., Faculty of Engineering (Shoubra), Benha University (Egypt); Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Humanities in Ad-Dawadmi, Shaqra University, 11911 (Saudi Arabia); Akl, Alaa A. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Humanities in Ad-Dawadmi, Shaqra University, 11911 (Saudi Arabia)

    2015-11-05

    Non-crystalline thin films of chalcogenide Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} system (30 ≤ x ≤ 50) were obtained by thermal evaporation technique onto a pre-cleaned glass substrate at a vacuum of 8.2 × 10{sup −4} Pa. The deposition rate and film thickness were kept constant at about 8 nm/s and 200 nm, respectively. Amorphous/crystalline nature and chemical composition of films have been checked using X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Optical properties of thin films were investigated and studied using the corrected transmittance, T(λ) and corrected reflectance, R(λ) measurements. Obtained data reveal that, the indirect optical energy gap (E{sub g}) was decreased from 2.21 to 1.57 eV. On the contrary, Urbach energy (band tail width), E{sub U} was found to be increased from 0.29 to 0.45 eV. This behavior is believed to be associated with the increase of Se-content instead of S-content in the thin films of Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} system. Chemical bond approach model, CBA was used to analyze the obtained values of E{sub g} and E{sub U}. Optical density, skin depth, extinction coefficient, refractive index and optical conductivity of chalcogenide CdSSe thin films were discussed as functions of Se-content. Using Wemple-DiDomenico single oscillator model, the refractive index dispersion and energy parameters and their dependence on Se content were studied. - Highlights: • Amorphous thin films of thickness 200 nm of Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} (30 ≤ x ≤ 50) have prepared. • Optical properties, indirect optical energy gap and band tail width were studied. • Chemical bond approach, CBA was used to analyze the obtained values of E{sub g} and E{sub U}. • New data of dispersion refractive index parameters were investigated and discussed.

  10. Fresnel zone-plate based X-ray microscopy in Zernike phase contrast with sub-50 nm resolution at NSRL

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen Jie; Li Wenjie; Tian Jinping; Liu Longhua; Xiong Ying; Liu Gang; Wu Ziyu; Tian Yangchao; Liu Yijin; Yue Zhengbo; Yu Hanqing; Wang Chunru

    2009-01-01

    A transmission X-ray microscope using Fresnel zone-plates (FZPs) has been installed at U7A beamline of National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (NSRL). The objective FZP with 45 nm outermost zone width delivers a sub-50 nm resolution. A gold phase ring with 2.5 μm thickness and 4 μm width was placed at the focal plane of the objective FZP at 8 keV to produce a negative Zernike phase contrast. A series of samples were used to test the performance of the Zernike phase contrast X-ray microscopy.

  11. Fresnel zone-plate based X-ray microscopy in Zernike phase contrast with sub-50 nm resolution at NSRL

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen Jie; Li Wenjie; Tian Jinping; Liu Longhua; Xiong Ying; Liu Gang; Wu Ziyu; Tian Yangchao [National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (China); Liu Yijin [School of Physics (China); Yue Zhengbo; Yu Hanqing [Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, School of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei Anhui 230029 (China); Wang Chunru, E-mail: ychtian@ustc.edu.c [Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 10060 (China)

    2009-09-01

    A transmission X-ray microscope using Fresnel zone-plates (FZPs) has been installed at U7A beamline of National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (NSRL). The objective FZP with 45 nm outermost zone width delivers a sub-50 nm resolution. A gold phase ring with 2.5 {mu}m thickness and 4 {mu}m width was placed at the focal plane of the objective FZP at 8 keV to produce a negative Zernike phase contrast. A series of samples were used to test the performance of the Zernike phase contrast X-ray microscopy.

  12. Thickness dependent structural, magnetic and magneto-transport properties of epitaxial Nd{sub 0.50}Sr{sub 0.50}MnO{sub 3} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kumar, Pawan, E-mail: p.kumar@krmangalam.edu.in [School of Basic and Applied Sciences, K. R. Mangalam University, Sohna Road, Gurgaon, Haryana 122103 (India); Singh, Hari Krishna, E-mail: hks65@nplindia.org [CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K. S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India)

    2016-05-06

    We report the thickness-dependent structural, magnetic and magneto-transport properties in epitaxial Nd{sub 0.50}Sr{sub 0.50}MnO{sub 3} thin films (10 to 300nm) prepared by DC magnetron sputtering technique on single crystalline (001) oriented substrate LaAlO{sub 3}. X-ray diffraction pattern reveals the epitaxial growth of all the films and the out-of-plane lattice parameter of films were found to increase with thickness. As thickness of the film increases the paramagnetic insulator (PMI) to ferromagnetic metal (FMM) transition temperature (T{sub C}), charge ordered transition temperature (T{sub CO}) and magnetic moment were found to increase with a strong bifurcation in ZFC-FC magnetization. The asymmetry in the coercivity seen in field dependent magnetization loops (M-H loops) suggests the presence of exchange bias (EB) effect. While temperature dependent resistivity of films show the semiconducting nature for thickness 10-200nm in temperature range from 5-300K, the film of thickness 300nm shows the insulator to metal transition with transition temperature (T{sub IM}) at 175K. Temperature dependent low field magnetoresistance (LFMR) measured at 4kOe found to decrease with thickness and for high field magnetoresistance (HFMR) at 40kOe and 60kOe also show similar dependence and a crossover at intermediate temperature range in the magnitude of MR between 10nm and 200nm films at constant field. Colossal increase in magnetoresistance observed for 10nm film at low temperature.

  13. Positively charged TiO{sub 2} particles in non-polar system for electrophoretic display

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chang, Young Seon

    2005-02-15

    Electrophoretic display uses a technique called electrophoresis to represent images and letters electronically with electronic ink. Although it has good characteristics such as wide viewing angle, high contrast ratio and extremely low power consumption, there are still several issues to be resolved to improve its performances. Higher mobility and stability of the ink particles are the most important issues among them. In this study, TiO{sub 2} particles coated with acrylamide were found to be effective ink particles that satisfy higher mobility and stability. The TiO{sub 2} particles coated with 5∼40% acrylamide were prepared by dispersion polymerization using monomers of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and acrylamide. The TiO{sub 2} particles coated with acrylamide were dispersed in isopar-G with sorbitan esters such as span 20, span 80 and span 85. The size of the TiO{sub 2} particles were changed from 200±150 nm to 350∼500 nm by the coating process. The morphology of coated particles was observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). From the TGA results, the weight fraction of TiO{sub 2} and polymer in coated particle were calculated. From the zeta potential measurement, it was shown that as acrylamide concentration was increased from 5% to 30%, zeta potential of the coated TiO{sub 2} particles was increased from 50mV to about 230mV. The zeta potential of the coated TiO{sub 2} particles with 40% acrylamide was decreased to 50mV. As a stabilizer, span 85 was the most effective surfactant to improve stability of the TiO{sub 2} particles coated with acrylamide among used surfactants in this study. Span 85 showed best stability in the storage test with TiO{sub 2} particles coated with 10% acrylamide. The mobility of TiO{sub 2} particles coated with acrylamide with span 85 in dye solution (Oil Blue-N dissolved in isopar-G) were measured by ITO cell test. The mobility of TiO{sub 2} particles coated with 10∼30

  14. Structural, morphological and luminescence properties of nanocrystalline up-converting Y{sub 1.89}Yb{sub 0.1}Er{sub 0.01}O{sub 3} phosphor particles synthesized through aerosol route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lojpur, V.; Mancic, L. [Institute of Technical Sciences of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, K. Mihailova 35/IV, 11000 Belgrade (Serbia); Rabanal, M.E. [University Carlos III of Madrid, Avd. Universidad 30, 28911 Leganes, Madrid (Spain); Dramicanin, M.D. [Vinca Institute of Nuclear Science, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, Belgrade (Serbia); Tan, Z.; Hashishin, T.; Ohara, S. [JWRI, Osaka University, 11-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 (Japan); Milosevic, O., E-mail: olivera.milosevic@itn.sanu.ac.rs [Institute of Technical Sciences of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, K. Mihailova 35/IV, 11000 Belgrade (Serbia)

    2013-12-15

    Highlights: •The Y{sub 1.89}Yb{sub 0.1}Er{sub 0.01}O{sub 3} phosphor particles are synthesized via aerosol route. •We report influence of process parameters on the particle structure and morphology. •Spherical, submicronic size and nano-crystalline particle morphology are confirmed. •The particles show improved luminescence properties and decay time. •Synthesized powders exhibit the temperature dependant up-conversion emission. -- Abstract: Nanocrystalline up-converting Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+}, Er{sup 3+} phosphor particles were processed in a dispersed system-aerosol, generated ultrasonically at 1.3 MHz from common nitrate precursor solution having fixed ytterbium-to-erbium concentration ratio. The appropriate process parameters: residence time 21 s, carrier gas (air) flow rate 1.6 dm{sup 3}/min, synthesis temperature 900 °C, led to the formation of un-agglomerated spherical nanostructured secondary particles, having mean particle size of approx 450 nm, composed of primary nanoscaled (20 nm) subunits. In order to reach targeting phase crystallinity, the as-prepared particles were additionally annealed at 1100 °C in air for 12, 24 and 48 h, respectively. Particle structure, morphology and purity were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning electron microscopy (FESEM/SEM), analytical and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM/HRTEM) in combination with energy dispersive X-ray analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). All samples crystallized in a cubic bixbyte-structure, space group Ia-3. The crystallite size changed with annealing time from 30 nm in as-prepared sample to 135 nm in sample annealed for 48 h, respectively. Emission spectra were assigned to the following trivalent erbium f–f electronic transitions: {sup 2}H{sub 9/2} → {sup 4}I{sub 15/2} (blue: 407–420 nm), ({sup 2}H{sub 11/2}, {sup 4}S{sub 3/2}) → {sup 4}I{sub 15/2} (green: 510–590 nm), and {sup 4}F{sub 9/2} → {sup 4}I{sub 15

  15. Synthesis of sub-10 nm VO{sub 2} nanoparticles films with plasma-treated glass slides by aqueous sol–gel method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lan, Shi-Di [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, 43, Sec. 4, Keelung Rd, Taipei 106, Taiwan, ROC (China); Cheng, Chih-Chia [Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan (China); Huang, Chi-Hsien [Department of Materials Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, 84 Gungjuan Road, Taishan Dist., New Taipei City 24301, Taiwan (China); Chen, Jem-Kun, E-mail: jkchen@mail.ntust.edu.tw [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, 43, Sec. 4, Keelung Rd, Taipei 106, Taiwan, ROC (China)

    2015-12-01

    Highlights: • Sub-10 nm VO{sub 2} nanoparticles (VNPs) are synthesized on a plasma-treated glass. • Glass slides generate negative charges sites after plasma treatment to attract VO{sub 2}{sup +}. • Doping tungsten with 1 wt% in VNPs did not change particle size significantly. • The particle size of VNP can be tuned by the density of negative charge sites. • Sub-10 nm structured VO{sub 2} particle films exhibited high visible transmittance. - Abstract: This paper describes an aqueous sol–gel synthesis of thermochromic thin films consisted of vanadium dioxide nanoparticles (VNPs) on glass slides. The glass slides were treated by argon/oxygen plasma to generate dispersedly negative charge sites on the surface to attract VO{sub 2}{sup +} from a sol–gel solution. After heat treatment in a low-pressure carbon monoxide/carbon dioxide (CO/CO{sub 2}) atmosphere, the VNPs could be generated in sub-10 nm of particle size on the surface. Various levels of doping were achieved by adding small quantities of a water-soluble tungsten compound to the sol; however, the particle size increased slightly with the tungsten doping levels. The change in electrical conductivity with temperature for VNP films were measured and compared to VO{sub 2} crystalline films. VNP films exhibited the lower transition temperature of the semiconductor to metal phase change; at a doping level of 4 wt% the transition temperature was measured at 32.2 ± 1.2 and 24.1 ± 1.2 °C for the VO{sub 2} and VNP films, respectively. The VNP films showed excellent visible transparency and a large change in transmittance at near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths before and after the metal–insulator phase transition (MIT). The current method is a landmark in the development of nanostructured material toward applications in energy-saving smart windows.

  16. Performance of diethylene glycol-based particle counters in the sub-3 nm size range

    CERN Document Server

    Wimmer, D; Franchin, A; Kangasluoma, J; Kreissl, F; Kürten, A; Kupc, A; Metzger, A; Mikkilä, J; Petäjä, J; Riccobono, F; Vanhanen, J; Kulmala, M; Curtius, J

    2013-01-01

    When studying new particle formation, the uncertainty in determining the "true" nucleation rate is considerably reduced when using condensation particle counters (CPCs) capable of measuring concentrations of aerosol particles at sizes close to or even at the critical cluster size (1–2 nm). Recently, CPCs able to reliably detect particles below 2 nm in size and even close to 1 nm became available. Using these instruments, the corrections needed for calculating nucleation rates are substantially reduced compared to scaling the observed formation rate to the nucleation rate at the critical cluster size. However, this improved instrumentation requires a careful characterization of their cut-off size and the shape of the detection efficiency curve because relatively small shifts in the cut-off size can translate into larger relative errors when measuring particles close to the cut-off size. Here we describe the development of two continuous-flow CPCs using diethylene glycol (DEG) as the working fluid. The desig...

  17. Magnetic properties and configuration of Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50*x}Rh{sub x} films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fenske, Jochen; Lott, Dieter; Schreyer, Andreas [Helmholt-Zentrum, Geesthacht (Germany); Schmidt, Wolfgang; Schmalzl, Karin [IFF Forschungszentrum, Juelich (Germany); JCNS at ILL (France); Mankey, Gary J. [MINT Center, University of Alabama (United States); Klose, Frank [Ansto, Bragg Institute (Australia); Tartakowskaya, Helena [Institute for Magnetism, National Accademy of Scinece (Ukraine)

    2011-07-01

    Ordered FePt alloys with L1{sub 0} structure are known as materials with FM order and a high magnetic moment of Fe providing a large magnetization. The large atomic number of Pt on the other hand results in a high magnetic anisotropy. If grown in thin films, the high anisotropy often results in perpendicular magnetization which is the preferred orientation for current magnetic recording media. One way to control the magnetic properties in these materials is through the introduction of a third element into the crystal matrix e.g. Rh. When Rh is added to replace Pt in the equiatomic alloy, new magnetic phases emerge. Here we present neutron diffraction studies on the magnetic properties of different 200nm thick Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50*x}Rh{sub x} films in dependence of the temperature and external magnetic fields. Additional resonant x-ray measurements on the Fe and Pt absorption edges provide additional information about the magnetic moments on these sites.

  18. Particles on surfaces of laser ablated Y{sub 1}Ba{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-{delta}} films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zheng, X.Y.; Zhu, S. [Tennessee Univ., Knoxville, TN (United States); Lowndes, D.H.; Warmack, R.J. [Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)

    1993-09-01

    Pulsed laser deposition of Y{sub 1}Ba{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-{delta}} films grown at heater temperature of 720 and 800 C on SrTiO{sub 3} and MgO substrates with thickness ranging from a nominal 5 unit cells to 200 nm were studied by STM and SEM. Size and density of particles present in the films were found to depend on film thickness, growth temperature and substrate. STM images indicate a correlation between film growth mode and particle density: the onset of big particles comes after the growth mode changes from layer-like to island growth.

  19. Sub-10 nm low current resistive switching behavior in hafnium oxide stack

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hou, Y., E-mail: houyi@pku.edu.cn, E-mail: lfliu@pku.edu.cn [Institute of Microelectronics, Peking University, 100871 Beijing (China); IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Heverlee (Belgium); Department of Physics and Astronomy, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001 Heverlee (Belgium); Celano, U.; Xu, Z.; Vandervorst, W. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Heverlee (Belgium); Department of Physics and Astronomy, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001 Heverlee (Belgium); Goux, L.; Fantini, A.; Degraeve, R.; Youssef, A.; Jurczak, M. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Heverlee (Belgium); Liu, L., E-mail: houyi@pku.edu.cn, E-mail: lfliu@pku.edu.cn; Cheng, Y.; Kang, J. [Institute of Microelectronics, Peking University, 100871 Beijing (China)

    2016-03-21

    In this letter, a tip-induced cell relying on the conductive atomic force microscope is proposed. It is verified as a referable replica of an integrated resistive random access memory (RRAM) device. On the basis of this cell, the functionality of sub-10 nm resistive switching is confirmed in hafnium oxide stack. Moreover, the low current switching behavior in the sub-10 nm dimension is found to be more pronounced than that of a 50 × 50nm{sup 2} device. It shows better ON/OFF ratio and low leakage current. The enhanced memory performance is ascribed to a change in the shape of the conductive filament as the device dimensions are reduced to sub-10 nm. Therefore, device downscaling provides a promising approach for the resistance optimization that benefits the RRAM array design.

  20. Ultralow-Power Electronic Trapping of Nanoparticles with Sub-10 nm Gold Nanogap Electrodes.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Barik, Avijit; Chen, Xiaoshu; Oh, Sang-Hyun

    2016-10-12

    We demonstrate nanogap electrodes for rapid, parallel, and ultralow-power trapping of nanoparticles. Our device pushes the limit of dielectrophoresis by shrinking the separation between gold electrodes to sub-10 nm, thereby creating strong trapping forces at biases as low as the 100 mV ranges. Using high-throughput atomic layer lithography, we manufacture sub-10 nm gaps between 0.8 mm long gold electrodes and pattern them into individually addressable parallel electronic traps. Unlike pointlike junctions made by electron-beam lithography or larger micron-gap electrodes that are used for conventional dielectrophoresis, our sub-10 nm gold nanogap electrodes provide strong trapping forces over a mm-scale trapping zone. Importantly, our technology solves the key challenges associated with traditional dielectrophoresis experiments, such as high voltages that cause heat generation, bubble formation, and unwanted electrochemical reactions. The strongly enhanced fields around the nanogap induce particle-transport speed exceeding 10 μm/s and enable the trapping of 30 nm polystyrene nanoparticles using an ultralow bias of 200 mV. We also demonstrate rapid electronic trapping of quantum dots and nanodiamond particles on arrays of parallel traps. Our sub-10 nm gold nanogap electrodes can be combined with plasmonic sensors or nanophotonic circuitry, and their low-power electronic operation can potentially enable high-density integration on a chip as well as portable biosensing.

  1. Investigations of mussel-inspired polydopamine deposition on WC and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles: The influence of particle size and material

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mondin, Giovanni, E-mail: giovanni.mondin@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Haft, Marcel, E-mail: m.haft@ifw-dresden.de [Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research (IFW) Dresden, Institute for Solid State Research, Helmholtzstr. 20, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Wisser, Florian M., E-mail: florian.wisser@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Leifert, Annika, E-mail: annika.leifert@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Mohamed-Noriega, Nasser, E-mail: nasser.mohamed-noriega@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Dörfler, Susanne, E-mail: susanne.doerfler@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Hampel, Silke, E-mail: s.hampel@ifw-dresden.de [Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research (IFW) Dresden, Institute for Solid State Research, Helmholtzstr. 20, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Grothe, Julia, E-mail: stefan.kaskel@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany); Kaskel, Stefan, E-mail: julia.grothe@chemie.tu-dresden.de [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Dresden University of Technology, Bergstrasse 66, 01069 Dresden (Germany)

    2014-12-15

    Polydopamine, formed by oxidation of dopamine, is a bioinspired polymer developed for multifunctional coatings by Lee et al. in 2007 by drawing inspiration from the adhesive proteins found in mussels. Due to their high versatility and substrate-independence, polydopamine coatings are gaining considerable attention in a plethora of research fields, particularly in the coating of particles, but systematic investigations of the polydopamine coating process are lacking in the literature. In this study, we explore by TEM and thermogravimetric analysis the polydopamine coating process on alumina microparticles, tungsten carbide microparticles and tungsten carbide nanoparticles. By choosing two substrates with similar size but different material (Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and WC), as well as two substrates of the same material but different size (WC micro- and nanoparticles) we investigate the effects of both substrate material and substrate size, in order to gain some insights into the polydopamine particle coating process. As opposed to what is generally assumed in the literature, we found that the polydopamine coating thicknesses on particles, as well as the thickness growing trend, depend on the particles size and material. In particular, after 24 h of polymerization time the polydopamine coatings reached a thickness of 65 ± 10 nm in the case of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} microparticles, 18 ± 4 nm in the case of WC microparticles and 33 ± 6 nm in the case of WC nanoparticles. - Highlights: • The coating of different particles with polydopamine was systematically investigated. • Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} microparticles and WC microparticles and nanoparticles were investigated. • The thickness of the polydopamine coating depends on the particle size. • The thickness of the polydopamine coating depends on the particle material.

  2. AFM visualization of sub-50nm polyplex disposition to the nuclear pore complex without compromising the integrity of the nuclear envelope

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Andersen, Helene; Parhamifar, Ladan; Hunter, A Christy

    2016-01-01

    that were microinjected into the oocytes of Xenopus laevis, as an example of a non-dividing cell, is exclusive to the nuclear pore complex (NPC). AFM images show NPCs clogged only with sub-50nm polyplexes. This mode of disposition neither altered the morphology/integrity of the nuclear membrane nor the NPC...

  3. Response of Cloud Condensation Nuclei (> 50 nm) to changes in ion-nucleation

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Svensmark, Henrik; Enghoff, Martin B.; Pedersen, Jens Olaf Pepke

    2012-01-01

    In experiments where ultraviolet light produces aerosols from trace amounts of ozone, sulphur dioxide, and water vapour, the number of additional small particles produced by ionization by gamma sources all grow up to diameters larger than 50 nm, appropriate for cloud condensation nuclei. This res......In experiments where ultraviolet light produces aerosols from trace amounts of ozone, sulphur dioxide, and water vapour, the number of additional small particles produced by ionization by gamma sources all grow up to diameters larger than 50 nm, appropriate for cloud condensation nuclei...... finding points to a process not included in current theoretical models, possibly an ion-induced formation of sulphuric acid in small clusters....

  4. Experimental characterization of the COndensation PArticle counting System for high altitude aircraft-borne application

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    S. Borrmann

    2009-06-01

    Full Text Available A characterization of the ultra-fine aerosol particle counter COPAS (COndensation PArticle counting System for operation on board the Russian high altitude research aircraft M-55 Geophysika is presented. The COPAS instrument consists of an aerosol inlet and two dual-channel continuous flow Condensation Particle Counters (CPCs operated with the chlorofluorocarbon FC-43. It operates at pressures between 400 and 50 hPa for aerosol detection in the particle diameter (d<sub>p> range from 6 nm up to 1 μm. The aerosol inlet, designed for the M-55, is characterized with respect to aspiration, transmission, and transport losses. The experimental characterization of counting efficiencies of three CPCs yields d<sub>p50sub> (50% detection particle diameter of 6 nm, 11 nm, and 15 nm at temperature differences (ΔT between saturator and condenser of 17°C, 30°C, and 33°C, respectively. Non-volatile particles are quantified with a fourth CPC, with d<sub>p50sub>=11 nm. It includes an aerosol heating line (250°C to evaporate H<sub>2sub>SO>4sub>-H>2sub>O particles of 11 nm<dp><200 nm at pressures between 70 and 300 hPa. An instrumental in-flight inter-comparison of the different COPAS CPCs yields correlation coefficients of 0.996 and 0.985. The particle emission index for the M-55 in the range of 1.4–8.4×1016 kg−1 fuel burned has been estimated based on measurements of the Geophysika's own exhaust.

  5. Highly (002) textured large grain bcc Cr{sub 80}Mn{sub 20} seed layer on Cr{sub 50}Ti{sub 50} amorphous layer for FePt-C granular film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jeon, Seong-Jae, E-mail: jsjigst@ecei.tohoku.ac.jp; Saito, Shin [Department of Electronic Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-05 Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579 (Japan); Hinata, Shintaro [Department of Electronic Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-05 Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579 (Japan); Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Research Fellow (PD), 5-3-1, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083 (Japan); Takahashi, Migaku [New Industry Creation Hatchery Center, Tohoku University, 6-6-10 Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579 (Japan)

    2015-05-07

    Effect of bcc Cr{sub 80}Mn{sub 20} seed layer and Cr{sub 50}Ti{sub 50} amorphous texture inducing layer on the heteroepitaxy system in FePt-C granular film was studied by introducing a new concept of the layered structure. The concept suggested that the large grain seed layer in which the crystallographic texture was initially formed on an amorphous layer in the layered structure can reduce the angular distribution of (002) c-axis crystal orientation in the FePt-C granular film owing to heteroepitaxial growth. Structure analysis by X-ray diffraction revealed that (1) when the substrate heating temperature was elevated from 300 °C to 500 °C, grain size in the seed layer increased from 9.8 nm to 11.6 nm, and then decreased with further increasing the substrate temperature. The reduction of the grain size over 500 °C corresponds to the crystallization of the amorphous texture inducing layer, (2) when the grain size increased from 9.8 nm to 11.6 nm, the angular distribution of the (002) orientation in the seed layer dramatically decreased from 13.7° to 4.1°. It was shown that the large grain seed layer increased the perpendicular hysteresis in FePt-C granular film.

  6. Neutron powder diffraction analysis of (Tm{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} and (Lu{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Martinelli, A., E-mail: alberto.martinelli@spin.cnr.it [SPIN-CNR, C.so Perrone 24, 16152 Genova (Italy); Ferretti, M. [SPIN-CNR, C.so Perrone 24, 16152 Genova (Italy); Universita degli Studi di Genova, Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, Via Dodecaneso 31, 16146 Genova (Italy); Cimberle, M.R. [IMEM-CNR, Via Dodecaneso 33, 16146, Genova (Italy); Ritter, C. [Institute Laue-Langevin, 6 rue Jules Horowitz, 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France)

    2012-12-15

    The crystal and magnetic structures of (Tm{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} and (Lu{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} have been investigated between 5 K and 300 K by means of high resolution neutron powder diffraction followed by Rietveld refinement and dc magnetic measurements. During cooling orbital ordering at the Mn sub-lattice takes place at T{sub OO}{approx}280 K in both compounds, inducing an orthorhombic to monoclinic phase transition. As the temperature is further decreased an antiferromagnetic CE-type structure occurs in both compounds at T{sub N}{approx}105 K. The comparison with other (Ln{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} compounds reveals that at room temperature the average Jahn-Teller distortion increases sharply with the decrease of the ionic radius for lanthanides heavier than Sm. The ordered magnetic moment progressively decreases as the lanthanide ionic radius decreases on account of the decreased values of the Mn-O-Mn bond angles. - Graphical abstract: Rietveld refinement plot for (Tm{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} obtained from neutron powder diffraction data collected at 5 K; the inset shows the CE-type spin ordering taking place at the Mn sub-lattice. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The crystal and magnetic structures of (Tm{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} and (Lu{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} were analyzed by neutron powder diffraction. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Orbital ordering takes place below T{sub OO}{approx}280 K in both compounds. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer An antiferromagnetic CE-type structure occurs in both compounds below T{sub N}{approx}105 K. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer A Comparison with other (Ln{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50})MnO{sub 3} compounds is reported.

  7. Laboratory observations of temperature and humidity dependencies of nucleation and growth rates of sub-3 nm particles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Huan; Dai, Liang; Zhao, Yi; Kanawade, Vijay P.; Tripathi, Sachchida N.; Ge, Xinlei; Chen, Mindong; Lee, Shan-Hu

    2017-02-01

    Temperature and relative humidity (RH) are the most important thermodynamic parameters in aerosol formation, yet laboratory studies of nucleation and growth dependencies on temperature and RH are lacking. Here we report the experimentally observed temperature and RH dependences of sulfuric acid aerosol nucleation and growth. Experiments were performed in a flow tube in the temperature range from 248 to 313 K, RH from 0.8% to 79%, and relative acidity (RA) of sulfuric acid from 6 × 10-5 to 0.38 (2 × 107-109 cm-3). The impurity levels of base compounds were determined to be NH3 nucleation at fixed sulfuric acid concentration but impede nucleation when RA is fixed. It is also shown that binary nucleation of sulfuric acid and water is negligible in planetary boundary layer temperature and sulfuric acid ranges. An empirical algorithm was derived to correlate the nucleation rate with RA, RH, and temperature together. Collision-limited condensation of free-sulfuric acid molecules fails to predict the observed growth rate in the sub-3 nm size range, as well as its dependence on temperature and RH. This suggests that evaporation, sulfuric acid hydration, and possible involvement of other ternary molecules should be considered for the sub-3 nm particle growth.

  8. Oleate-based hydrothermal preparation of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles, and their magnetic properties with respect to particle size and surface coating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Repko, Anton, E-mail: anton@a-repko.sk [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Hlavova 2030/8, 128 43 Prague 2 (Czech Republic); Vejpravová, Jana, E-mail: vejpravo@fzu.cz [Department of Magnetic Nanosystems, Institute of Physics AS CR, v.v.i., Na Slovance 2, 182 21 Prague 8 (Czech Republic); Vacková, Taťana [Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Heyrovsky Sq. 2, 162 06 Prague 6 (Czech Republic); Zákutná, Dominika [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Hlavova 2030/8, 128 43 Prague 2 (Czech Republic); Nižňanský, Daniel, E-mail: daniel.niznansky@natur.cuni.cz [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Hlavova 2030/8, 128 43 Prague 2 (Czech Republic)

    2015-09-15

    We present a facile and high-yield synthesis of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles by hydrothermal hydrolysis of Co–Fe oleate in the presence of pentanol/octanol/toluene and water at 180 or 220 °C. The particle size (6–10 nm) was controlled by the composition of the organic solvent and temperature. Magnetic properties were then investigated with respect to the particle size and surface modification with citric acid or titanium dioxide (leading to hydrophilic particles). The as-prepared hydrophobic nanoparticles (coated by oleic acid) had a minimum inter-particle distance of 2.5 nm. Their apparent blocking temperature (estimated as a maximum of the zero-field-cooled magnetization) was 180 K, 280 K and 330 K for the particles with size of 6, 9 and 10.5 nm, respectively. Replacement of oleic acid on the surface by citric acid decreased inter-particle distance to less than 1 nm, and increased blocking temperature by ca. 10 K. On the other hand, coating with titanium dioxide, supported by nitrilotri(methylphosphonic acid), caused increase of the particle spacing, and lowering of the blocking temperature by ca. 20 K. The CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}@TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were sufficiently stable in water, methanol and ethanol. The particles were also investigated by Mössbauer spectroscopy and alternating-current (AC) susceptibility measurements, and their analysis with Vögel–Fulcher and power law. Effect of different particle coating and dipolar interactions on the magnetic properties is discussed. - Highlights: • CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were prepared by facile hydrothermal method from Co–Fe oleate. • Blocking temperature (T{sub B}) is 180–330 K for 6–10.5 nm oleate-coated particles. • The apparent T{sub B} changes with oleic acid, citrate or TiO{sub 2} coating.

  9. Influence of defects on sub-Å optical linewidths in Eu{sup 3+}: Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Oliveira Lima, Karmel de [PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech – CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 75005 Paris (France); Rocha Gonçalves, Rogéria [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil (Brazil); Giaume, Domitille [PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech – CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 75005 Paris (France); Ferrier, Alban, E-mail: alban.ferrier@chimie-paristech.fr [PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech – CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 75005 Paris (France); Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, 75005 Paris (France); Goldner, Philippe, E-mail: philippe.goldner@chimie-paristech.fr [PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech – CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 75005 Paris (France)

    2015-12-15

    Rare earth doped nanocrystals have been recently suggested as useful materials for applications in quantum information processing. To reach optical properties closer to bulk crystals ones, it is still necessary to reduce the defects that can arise in nanoscale structures. Here, we probe the defects level by monitoring the inhomogeneous broadening of the {sup 7}F{sub 0}→{sup 5}D{sub 0} transition in particles of 0.3% at% Eu{sup 3+}:Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}. We find that lines as narrow as 14 GHz (0.015 nm), a value comparable to single crystals, can be obtained in 150 nm particles calcinated at 1200 °C. The additional broadening observed for particles calcinated at lower temperature is attributed to defects inside crystallites and not to surface effects. A linear correlation is also observed between optical and Raman linewidths, suggesting that both processes are sensitive to the same defects. {sup 5}D{sub 0} excited state lifetimes are well described by a model based on an effective refractive index and we conclude that the defects causing the inhomogeneous broadening have no effect on the excited state population.

  10. Magnetic fluid with high dispersion and heating performance using nano-sized Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} platelets

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kishimoto, Mikio, E-mail: kishimoto.mikio.gb@u.tsukuba.ac.jp [Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573 (Japan); Miyamoto, Ryoichi; Oda, Tatsuya [Department of Surgery, Division of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573 (Japan); Yanagihara, Hideto [Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573 (Japan); Ohkohchi, Nobuhiro [Department of Surgery, Division of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573 (Japan); Kita, Eiji [Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573 (Japan)

    2016-01-15

    Magnetic fluid with high dispersion and heating performance was developed using 30 to 50 nm platelet Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles. This fluid was prepared by mechanical dispersion in ethyl alcohol with a silane coupling agent, bonding with polyethylene glycol (PEG), and removal of aggregates formed by precipitation. The peak diameter of the resulting Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles, measured by dynamic light scattering, was approximately 150 nm. The fluid exhibited a 300 W/g specific loss power (measured at 114 kHz by a 50.9 kA/m magnetic field). Distribution of the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles in tissues was observed by intravenously administrating the fluid in mice. The Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles passed through the lungs, and were uniformly distributed throughout the liver and spleen. High dispersion and high heating performance were simultaneously achieved in the magnetic fluid using platelet Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles surface modified with PEG. - Highlights: • Magnetic fluid with high dispersion and heating performance using Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles. • Fluid prepared by mechanical dispersion, bonding with polyethylene glycol. • TEM observation and measurements of particle size distribution and specific loss power of fluid. • Observation of distribution of particles in mice tissues intravenously administrated fluid.

  11. Sub-50 nm patterning of functional oxides by soft lithographic edge printing

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    George, A.; ten Elshof, Johan E.

    2012-01-01

    We report a fast, versatile and reproducible method to make arbitrary nanoscale patterns of functional metal oxides by edge transfer printing of aqueous metal-loaded water-soluble polyacrylic acid (PAA) solutions on silicon. Patterns of ZnO, CuO, NiO and Fe2O3 with lateral dimensions below 50 nm

  12. Dust Explosion Characteristics of Agglomerated 35 nm and 100 nm Aluminum Particles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hong-Chun Wu

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available In the experiment, nanoparticles of 35 nm Al and 100 nm Al powders, respectively, formed particles with average sizes of 161 nm and 167 nm in agglomeration. The characteristics of dust cloud explosions with the two powder sizes, 35 nm and 100 nm, revealed considerable differences, as shown here: (dp/dtmax-35 nm = 1254 bar/s, (dp/dtmax-100 nm = 1105 bar/s; Pmax-35 nm = 7.5 bar, Pmax-100 nm = 12.3 bar, and MEC-35 nm = 40 g/m3, MEC-100 nm = 50 g/m3. The reason of Pmax-35 nm value is smaller than Pmax-100 nm may be due to agglomeration. From an analysis of the explosive residue, the study found that nanoparticles of 35 nm Al powder became filamentous strands after an explosion, where most of 100 nm Al nanoparticles maintained a spherical structure, This may be because the initial melting temperature of 35 nm Al is 435.71°C, while that for 100 nm Al is 523.58°C, higher by 87.87°C. This study discovered that explosive property between the 35 nm Al and 100 nm Al powders after agglomeration were different.

  13. Evidence of magnetic dipolar interaction in micrometric powders of the Fe{sub 50}Mn{sub 10}Al{sub 40} system: Melted alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Perez Alcazar, G.A., E-mail: gpgeperez@gmail.com [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360, Cali (Colombia); Unidad Asociada ICMM-IMA, Apdo. 155, 28230 Las Rozas, Madrid (Spain); Zamora, L.E. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360, Cali (Colombia); Unidad Asociada ICMM-IMA, Apdo. 155, 28230 Las Rozas, Madrid (Spain); Tabares, J.A.; Piamba, J.F. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360, Cali (Colombia); Gonzalez, J.M. [Unidad Asociada ICMM-IMA, Apdo. 155, 28230 Las Rozas, Madrid (Spain); Greneche, J.M. [LUNAM, Universite du Maine, Institut des Molecules et Materiaux du Mans, UMR CNRS 6283, 72085 Le Mans Cedex 9 (France); Martinez, A. [Instituto de Magnetismo Aplicado, P.O. Box 155, 28230 Las Rozas (Spain); Romero, J.J. [Instituto de Ceramica y Vidrio, CSIC, C/Kelsen 5, 28049, Madrid (Spain); Marco, J.F. [Instituto de Quimica Fisica Rocasolano, CSIC, C/Serrano 119, 28006 Madrid (Spain)

    2013-02-15

    Powders of melted disordered Fe{sub 50}Mn{sub 10}Al{sub 40} alloy were separated at different mean particle sizes as well as magnetically and structurally characterized. All the samples are BCC and show the same nanostructure. Particles larger than 250 {mu}m showed a lamellar shape compared to smaller particles, which exhibited a more regular form. All the samples are ferromagnetic at room temperature and showed reentrant spin-glass (RSG) and superparamagnetic (SP)-like behaviors between 30 and 60 K and 265 and > 280 K, respectively, as a function of frequency and particle size. The freezing temperature increases with increasing particle size while the blocking one decreases with particle size. The origin of these magnetic phenomena relies in the internal disordered character of samples and the competitive interaction of Fe and Mn atoms. The increase of their critical freezing temperature with increasing mean particle size is due to the increase of the magnetic dipolar interaction between the magnetic moment of each particle with the field produced by the other magnetic moments of their surrounding particles. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The effect of particle size in microsized powders of Fe{sub 50}Mn{sub 10}Al{sub 40} melted disordered alloy is studied. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Dipolar magnetic interaction between particles exists and this changes with the particle size. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer For all the particle sizes the reentrant spin- glass and the superparamagnetic-like phases exist. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer RSG and SP critical temperatures increase with increasing the dipolar magnetic interaction (the mean particle size).

  14. Fabrication of BaTiO{sub 3}/Ni composite particles and their electro-magneto responsive properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lu, Yaping [Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710119 (China); School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119 (China); Gao, Lingxiang, E-mail: gaolx@snnu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710119 (China); School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119 (China); Wang, Lijuan [Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710119 (China); School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119 (China); Xie, Zunyuan, E-mail: zyxie123@snnu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710119 (China); School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119 (China); Gao, Meixiang [Yulin Vocational and Technical College, Yulin 719000 (China); Zhang, Weiqiang [Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710119 (China); School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119 (China)

    2017-07-15

    Graphical abstract: The spherical BaTiO{sub 3}/Ni particles with excellent structure were made by one-step method through fixing the metal Ni(0) reduced by a specific reducing agent (N{sub 2}H{sub 4}·H{sub 2}O) on the surface of the BaTiO{sub 3} particles with grain diameter of ∼500 nm. BaTiO{sub 3}/Ni particle has double responses of electric and magnetic field simultaneously. Consequentially, coating magnetic metal on BT particle is proposed an effective method to prepare novel electro-magneto responsive particles and one basis of electro-magneto responsive elastomers. - Highlights: • The BaTiO{sub 3}/Ni composite particles were fabricated. • The content of Ni(0) in nickel sheath is 70.2%. • The BaTiO{sub 3}/Ni particles have double responses of electric and magnetic field. - Abstract: BaTiO{sub 3} (BT)/Ni composite particles were made by one-step method through agglomerating the metal Ni(0) nanoparticles reduced by a specific reducing agent (N{sub 2}H{sub 4}·H{sub 2}O) on the surface of BT sphere with diameter of ∼500 nm. The BT/Ni composite particles were characterized by the means of scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). In BT/Ni particles, pure BT spherical particle was coated with Ni nanoparticles agglomerated on its surface. The average thickness of the Ni sheath was ∼30 nm and the content of Ni(0) and Ni (II) in the sheath were 70.2% and 29.8%, respectively. The responsive effects of BT/Ni particles filled in hydrogel elastomer were investigated by the viscoelastic properties. The results indicate that the BT/Ni particles exhibit electro and magneto coordinated responsive properties (E = 1 kV/mm, H = 0.1 T/mm), which is superior to BT particles with individual electro response.

  15. Particle morphology and magnetic properties of Ba{sub 0.5}Sr{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19} powder calcined conventionally and by microwave heating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kanagesan, S., E-mail: kanagu1980@gmail.com [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor (Malaysia); Hashim, M. [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor (Malaysia); Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor (Malaysia); Jesurani, S. [Department of Physics, Jeyaraj Annapackium College for Women, Periyakulam 625601, Tamil Nadu (India); Kalaivani, T. [Center for material science and Nano Devices, Department of Physics, SRM University, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu (India); Ismail, I.; Shafie, M.S.E. [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor (Malaysia)

    2012-12-05

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Synthesis of Ba{sub 0.5}Sr{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19} by sol-gel technique. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Crystallization temperature is reduced to 900 Degree-Sign C due to the addition of D-Fructose. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Results of conventional and microwave calcined samples are reported. - Abstract: Barium strontium hexaferrite (Ba{sub 0.5}Sr{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19}-BSF) has been prepared by sol-gel process involving use of D-Fructose as a fuel. The prepared precursor was calcined in two different calcinations techniques conventional and microwave furnace. X-ray powder diffraction studies confirmed the formation of single phase Ba{sub 0.5}Sr{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19}. HR-SEM results show the morphology of the particles is hexagonal structures in platelet form. The average particle size of conventionally calcined BSF powder is 100-250 nm and that of microwave calcined powder is 30-100 nm. The broad hysteresis loop reveals that powder is well crystallized and exhibits hard magnetic properties.

  16. Magnetic hardening of Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} by rotary swaging

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gröb, T., E-mail: t.groeb@phm.tu-darmstadt.de [Division Physical Metallurgy, Alarich-Weiß-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Wießner, L. [Institute for Production Engineering and Forming Machines, Otto-Berndt-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Bruder, E. [Division Physical Metallurgy, Alarich-Weiß-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Faske, T.; Donner, W. [Divison Structure Research, Alarich-Weiß-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Groche, P. [Institute for Production Engineering and Forming Machines, Otto-Berndt-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Müller, C. [Division Physical Metallurgy, Alarich-Weiß-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany)

    2017-04-15

    Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} was subjected to incremental forming by rotary swaging with the aim of tailoring the coercivity by changing the microstructure. The challenging part of a deformation of Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} is an ordering phase present at room temperature, leading to low formability. To increase the formability of the alloy the presence of the ordering phase was supressed by two different concepts. The first concept consists of a heat treatment above the phase transition followed by rapid cooling and deformation at room temperature. The second concept was rotary swaging at temperatures above the phase transition temperature. A comparison in terms of resulting microstructure and magnetic properties shows that both concepts have a potential for tailoring the coercivity of Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50}. - Highlights: • Magnetic hardening of Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} was achieved by rotary swaging with two different concepts. • The influences of the microstructural changes during the rotary swaging process have been linked to magnetic hardening. • Increase in coercivity for Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} by rotary swaging at elevated temperature is limited by the dynamic restoration. • Coercivity of Fe{sub 50}Co{sub 50} can be tailored by the induced plastic strain.

  17. Effect of ZrB{sub 2} particles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of hybrid (ZrB{sub 2} + Al{sub 3}Zr)/AA5052 insitu composites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gautam, Gaurav, E-mail: gauravgautamm1988@gmail.com; Mohan, Anita, E-mail: amohan.app@iitbhu.ac.in

    2015-11-15

    Present study outlines the effect of ZrB{sub 2} particles variation on the morphology and mechanical properties of (ZrB{sub 2}+Al{sub 3}Zr)/AA5052Al alloy composites. Composites with varying amount of ZrB{sub 2} particles have been produced by direct melt reaction (DMR) technique. These composites have been characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) to confirm the presence of ZrB{sub 2} and Al{sub 3}Zr particles. Optical microscopy (OM) and scanning-electron microscopy (SEM) have been used to understand the morphology. To see the effect of ZrB{sub 2} variation on mechanical properties, hardness and tensile properties have been evaluated. The XRD and EDS results confirm the successful formation of ZrB{sub 2} particles in matrix of AA5052Al alloy. SEM and TEM studies exhibit that ZrB{sub 2} particles are mostly in hexagonal and some rectangular shape while Al{sub 3}Zr particles are in polyhedron and rectangular shapes. Most of ZrB{sub 2} particles are within a size range of 10–190 nm. Interface region is free of any impurity. OM studies show grain refinement of AA5052Al alloy matrix with formation of second phase ZrB{sub 2} particles. Tensile results indicate that the UTS and YS improve up to 3 vol.% of ZrB{sub 2} but beyond this composition a decreasing trend is observed. The strength coefficient increases with increase in ZrB{sub 2} particles up to 3 vol.% in the Al{sub 3}Zr/Al alloy composites, whereas strain hardening decreases. While beyond 3 vol.% ZrB{sub 2} particles in the Al{sub 3}Zr/Al alloy composite, opposite trend is observed in strength coefficient and strain hardening. Percentage elongation also improves with 1vol.% ZrB{sub 2}, but further addition of ZrB{sub 2} shows an adverse effect. However, a continuous increasing trend has been observed in bulk hardness. Fracture studies show facets of Al{sub 3}Zr particles and dimples of matrix, but with inclusion of ZrB{sub 2} dimple size decreases. Increase in ZrB{sub

  18. Achieving sub-50nm controlled diameter of aperiodic Si nanowire arrays by ultrasonic catalyst removal for photonic applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chaliyawala, Harsh A.; Purohit, Zeel; Khanna, Sakshum; Ray, Abhijit; Pati, Ranjan K.; Mukhopadhyay, Indrajit

    2018-05-01

    We report an alternative approach to fabricate the vertically aligned aperiodic Si nanowire arrays by controlling the diameter of the Ag nanoparticles and tuneable ultrasonic removal. The process begins by sputtering the Ag thin film (t=5 nm) on the Si/SiO2 substrates. Followed by Ag thin film, annealed for various temperature (T=300°C, 400°C, 500°C and 600°C) to selectively achieve a high density, well-spaced and diameter controlled Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the Si/SiO2 substrates. The sacrificial layer of AgNPs size indicates the controlled diameter of the Si nanowire arrays. Image J analysis for various annealed samples gives an indication of the high density, uniformity and equal distribution of closely packed AgNPs. Furthermore, the AgNPs covered with Au/Pd mesh (5 nm) as a template, was removed by ultrasonication in the etchant solution for several times in different intervals of preparation. The conventional and facile metal assisted electroless etching approach was finally employed to fabricate the vertically aperiodic sub-50 nm SiNWAs, can be applicable to various nanoscale opto-electronic applications.

  19. Studies on dielectric properties, opto-electrical parameters and electronic polarizability of thermally evaporated amorphous Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hassanien, Ahmed Saeed, E-mail: a.s.hassanien@gmail.com [Engineering Mathematics and Physics Department, Faculty of Engineering (Shoubra), Benha University (Egypt); Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Humanities in Ad-Dawadmi, Shaqra University, 11911 (Saudi Arabia)

    2016-06-25

    The objective of this work is to study the influence of the addition of more Se on dielectric properties, opto-electrical parameters and electronic polarizability of amorphous chalcogenide Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} thin films (30 ≤ x ≤ 50 at%). Thin films of thickness 200 nm were synthesized by vacuum deposition at ≈8.2 × 10{sup −4} Pa. Both refractive index and extinction coefficient were used to obtain all the studied parameters. The high frequency dielectric constant, real and imaginary parts of dielectric constant were discussed. Drude theory was applied to investigate opto-electrical parameters, like optical carrier concentration, optical mobility and optical resistivity. Moreover, other parameters were investigated and studied, e.g. Drude parameters, volume and surface energy loss functions, dielectric loss factor, dielectric relaxation time, complex optical conductivity and electronic polarizability as well as optical electronegativity and third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility. Values of electronic polarizability and nonlinear optical susceptibility were found to be decreased while optical electronegativity increased as Se-content was increased. Increment of Se-content in amorphous Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} thin films has also led to minimize the energy losses when electromagnetic waves propagate through films as well as optical conductivity and the speed of light increased. The other studied properties and parameters of Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} films were found to be strongly dependent upon Se-content. - Highlights: • Thermally evaporated amorphous Cd{sub 50}S{sub 50−x}Se{sub x} (30 ≤ x ≤ 50) thin films were deposited. • Refractive index and absorption index were used to determine almost all properties. • Dielectric properties, Drude parameters and electronic polarizability were studied. • Addition of more Se to CdSSe matrix led to improve the opto-electrical properties. • New data were obtained and

  20. Synthesis and characterization particles of Ba{sub 0,50}Sr{sub 0,50}Co{sub 0,80}Fe{sub 0,20}O{sub 3} obtained by the citrate-EDTA technique; Sintese e caracterizacao de particulados de Ba{sub 0,50}Sr{sub 0,50}Co{sub 0,80}Fe{sub 0,20}O{sub 3} obtidos pela tecnica dos citratos-EDTA

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bonturim, E; Vargas, R A; Andreoli, M; Seo, E S.M., [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (CCTM/IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Centro de Ciencia e Tecnologia de Materiais

    2010-07-01

    The Ba{sub (1-x)}Sr{sub (x)}Co{sub (1-y)}Fe{sub (y)}O{sub (3)} (BSCF) has been studied as a cathode material for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell, due to its better ion and electron conduction. This work aims to study the synthesis of the compound obtained from the citrate-EDTA technique. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated the formation of the compound above 800 deg C. The materials calcined at temperatures of 700, 800 and 900 deg C for 5 h showed cubic pseudo-perovskite structure, according to the literature. By analysis of X-ray fluorescence were obtained powders with nominal chemical composition in the temperature range studied. The micrographs obtained by SEM and particle size distribution analysis showed the formation of particle with diameters below 1 micron. (author)

  1. Structural and Mössbauer studies of nanocrystalline Mn{sup 4+}-doped Li{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2.5}O{sub 4} particles prepared by mechanical milling

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Widatallah, H. M., E-mail: hishammw@squ.edu.om; Al-Mabsali, F. N.; Al-Hajri, F. S. [Sultan Qaboos University, Physics Department, College of Science (Oman); Khalifa, N. O. [University of Khartoum, Physics Department, Faculty of Science (Sudan); Gismelseed, A. M.; Al-Rawas, A. D.; Elzain, M.; Yousif, A. [Sultan Qaboos University, Physics Department, College of Science (Oman)

    2016-12-15

    The structure and magnetic properties of spinel-related Mn{sup 4+}-doped Li{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2.5}O{sub 4} nanocrystalline particles of the composition Li{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2.25}Mn{sub 0.1875}O{sub 4}, prepared by milling a pristine sample for different times, were investigated. The average crystallite and particle size, respectively, decreased form ∼40 nm to ∼10 nm and ∼2.5 μm to ∼10 nm with increasing milling time from 0 h to 70 h. Rietveld refinement of the XRD data of the non-milled sample show the Mn{sup 4+} dopant ions to substitute for Fe{sup 3+} at the octahedral B-sites of the spinel-related structure. The Mössbauer spectra of the milled ferrites indicate that more particles turn superparamagnetic with increasing milling time. The Mössbauer data collected at 78 K suggest that while in the non-milled sample the Mn{sup 4+} ions substitute for Fe{sup 3+} at the octahedral B-sites, this is reversed as milling proceeds with doped Mn{sup 4+} ions, balancing Fe{sup 3+} vacancies and possibly Li{sup +} ions progressively migrate to the tetrahedral A-sites. This is supported by the slight increase observed in the magnetization of the milled samples relative to that of the non-milled one. The magnetic data suggest that in addition to the increasing superparamagentic component of the milled particles, thermal spin reversal and/or spin canting effects are possible at the surface layers of the nanoparticles.

  2. XPS, TEM and SAD investigations of nanosized Co{sub x}B{sub y}H{sub z} particles obtained by two different borohydride methods

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Krastev, V. [Bulgarian Acad. of Sci., Sofia (Bulgaria). Inst. of General and Inorg. Chem.; Stoycheva, M. [Central Laboratory of Electrochemical Power Sources, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113 (Bulgaria); Lefterova, E. [Central Laboratory of Electrochemical Power Sources, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113 (Bulgaria); Dragieva, I. [Central Laboratory of Electrochemical Power Sources, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113 (Bulgaria); Stoynov, Z. [Central Laboratory of Electrochemical Power Sources, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113 (Bulgaria)

    1996-07-01

    The nanosized Co{sub x}B{sub y}H{sub z} particles synthesised by the ``tea`` and ``antigravity`` methods using a borohydride reduction process have been subjected to structure and composition studies by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected area diffraction (SAD). The amounts of the elements Co, B, O{sub 2}, H{sub 2} and C as mean volume values, and surface values for the as-prepared particles, as well as after Ar{sup +} etching to a depth of about 15 nm and 30 nm from the initial particle surface, are determined. About 1.5 atoms of cobalt per atom of boron correspond to samples obtained by the ``antigravity`` method. The binding energy (BE) of 1s electrons of boron atoms has only one value. These particles are angular and are in the typical nanocrystalline state. In the case of samples prepared by the ``tea`` method, two atoms of cobalt per atom of boron are found. The presence of two kinds of BE (B{sup I} and B{sup II}) of 1s electrons of boron atoms in the particles obtained by the ``tea`` method is observed and almost equal amounts of these two states are established in the spectrum. The particles` shape and structure are typical of the amorphous state. The fact that there is one peak when the ``antigravity`` method is applied, in contrast to the two peaks with the ``tea`` method indicates the presence of a metal amorphous state in the latter case. (orig.)

  3. 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.

  4. Influence of particle sizes on the electronic behavior of Zn{sub x}Co{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinels (x = 0.2, 0.3)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Viñas, R. [Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Álvarez-Serrano, I., E-mail: ias@quim.ucm.es [Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid (Spain); López, M.L.; Pico, C.; Veiga, M.L. [Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Mompeán, F.; García-Hernández, M. [Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales, CSIC, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, 3, 28049 Madrid (Spain)

    2014-07-15

    Graphical abstract: Relaxor ferroelectric behavior and superparamagnetism in nanoparticles of Zn{sub x}Co{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} obtained in supercritical water. - Highlights: • Title ferrites were prepared by hydrothermal techniques (sub and supercritical). • In supercritical (SCW) conditions highly monodispersive samples were obtained. • All samples are semiconductors; n-type or p-type response depends on the composition. • Superparamagnetic and relaxor ferroelectric response coexist in SCW samples. - Abstract: The effect of composition and particle size on the electrical and magnetic behavior of Zn{sub x}Co{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinels (x = 0.2 and 0.3) has been studied. Powdered samples of these ferrites have been synthetized by the liquid mix technique and hydrothermal method (in sub and supercritical conditions), leading to average particle sizes of ca. 50 and 10 nm, respectively. They have been characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, Thermogravimetric analysis, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and impedance and magnetic measurements. Permittivity values up to ca. 500 were registered at 375 K, which remained almost constant at moderate frequencies, between 10{sup 3} and 10{sup 6} Hz. Stabilization of polarization phenomena is very sensitive to grain size and composition. Dielectric behavior evolves to a relaxor ferroelectric response when grain size becomes nanometric and, particularly, when the sample shows high monodispersion. The conduction mechanism and type of majority charge carriers have been established from Seebeck measurements. The x = 0.3 sample, prepared in supercritical water for the first time, exhibits homogeneous particle size distribution, superparamagnetic behavior and Curie temperature lower than those corresponding to similar microsized samples. The electronic response of the ferrites obtained in supercritical conditions is interpreted considering the possible short scale polarization of nanodomains.

  5. Acute and Cumulative Effects of Unmodified 50-nm Nano-ZnO on Mice.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kong, Tao; Zhang, Shu-Hui; Zhang, Ji-Liang; Hao, Xue-Qin; Yang, Fan; Zhang, Cai; Yang, Zi-Jun; Zhang, Meng-Yu; Wang, Jie

    2018-01-02

    Nanometer zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) is widely used in diverse industrial and agricultural fields. Due to the extensive contact humans have with these particles, it is crucial to understand the potential effects that nano-ZnO have on human health. Currently, information related to the toxicity and mechanisms of nano-ZnO is limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate acute and cumulative toxic effects of 50-nm unmodified ZnO in mice. This investigation will seek to establish median lethal dose (LD50), a cumulative coefficient, and target organs. The acute and cumulative toxicity was investigated by Karber's method and via a dose-increasing method, respectively. During the experiment, clinical signs, mortality, body weights, hematology, serum biochemistry, gross pathology, organ weight, and histopathology were examined. The LD50 was 5177-mg/kg·bw; the 95% confidence limits for the LD50 were 5116-5238-mg/kg·bw. It could be concluded that the liver, kidney, lung, and gastrointestinal tract were target organs for the 50-nm nano-ZnO acute oral treatment. The cumulative coefficient (K) was 1.9 which indicated that the cumulative toxicity was apparent. The results also indicated that the liver, kidney, lung, and pancrea were target organs for 50-nm nano-ZnO cumulative oral exposure and might be target organs for subchronic and chronic toxicity of oral administered 50-nm ZnO.

  6. Heat treatment and thickness-dependent electrical study of Se{sub 50}Te{sub 20}S{sub 30} thin film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Abd-Elrahman, M.I.; Hafiz, M.M.; Qasem, Ammar; Abdel-Rahim, M.A. [Assiut University, Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut (Egypt)

    2016-08-15

    Chalcogenide Se{sub 50}Te{sub 20}S{sub 30} thin film of different thickness was deposited using thermal evaporation technique. The thermogram of the chalcogenide bulk Se{sub 50}Te{sub 20}S{sub 30} was obtained using a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) with heating rate of 7.5 K/min. The glass transition temperature T{sub g}, crystallization temperature T{sub c} and peak crystallization temperature T{sub p} were identified. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination indicates the amorphous nature of the as-deposited film and polycrystalline structure of the thermal annealed ones. The dark electrical resistivity (ρ) measurements were taken in temperature range (300-500 K) and thickness range (200-450 nm). Analysis of the electrical resistivity results revealed two types of conduction mechanisms: conduction due to extended states in the temperature range (T > T{sub c}) and variable range hopping in the temperature range (T < T{sub c}). The effect of the heat treatment and thickness on the density of localized states at the Fermi level N(E{sub F}) and hopping parameters were studied. (orig.)

  7. Superparamagnetism and spin-glass like state for the MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-particles synthesized by the thermal decomposition method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gao Ruorui [Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Zhang Yue, E-mail: yue-zhang@mail.hust.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Department of Electric Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China); Yu Wei [Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Xiong Rui [Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062 (China); Shi Jing [Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072 (China); Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062 (China); International Center for Material Physics, Shen Yang 110015 (China)

    2012-08-15

    MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-particles with an average size of about 7 nm were synthesized by the thermal decomposition method. Based on the magnetic hysteresis loops measured at different temperatures the temperature-dependent saturation magnetization (M{sub S}) and coercivity (H{sub C}) are determined. It is shown that above 20 K the temperature-dependence of the M{sub S} and H{sub C} indicates the magnetic behaviors in the single-domain nano-particles, while below 20 K, the change of the M{sub S} and H{sub C} indicates the freezing of the spin-glass like state on the surfaces. By measuring the magnetization-temperature (M-T) curves under the zero-field-cooling (ZFC) and field-cooling procedures at different applied fields, superparamagnetism behavior is also studied. Even though in the ZFC M-T curves peaks can be observed below 160 K, superparamagnetism does not appear until the temperature goes above 300 K, which is related with the strong inter-particle interaction. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-particles with size of 7 nm were prepared. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The surface spin-glass like state is frozen below 20 K. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The peaks in ZFC magnetization-temperature curves are observed below 160 K. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The inter-particle interaction inhibits the superparamagnetism at room temperature.

  8. Surface modification of submicronic TiO{sub 2} particles prepared by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis for visible light absorption

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dugandzic, Ivan M. [Institute of Technical Sciences of SASA (Serbia); Jovanovic, Dragana J. [University of Belgrade, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences (Serbia); Mancic, Lidija T. [Institute of Technical Sciences of SASA (Serbia); Zheng, Nan; Ahrenkiel, Scott P. [South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (United States); Milosevic, Olivera B. [Institute of Technical Sciences of SASA (Serbia); Saponjic, Zoran V.; Nedeljkovic, Jovan M., E-mail: jovned@vinca.rs [University of Belgrade, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences (Serbia)

    2012-10-15

    Spherical, submicronic TiO{sub 2} assemblage with high specific surface area and controllable phase composition was prepared in the process of ultrasonic spray drying/pyrolysis in a wide temperature range (150-800 Degree-Sign C) by using as a precursor aqueous colloidal solution consisting of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (4.5 nm). Submicronic, soft and grained spherical TiO{sub 2} particles (d = 370-500 nm) comprising clustered nanocrystals (<10 nm) were obtained at low processing temperature, while particle densification, intensive growth of the clustered primary units and anatase-to-rutile transformation ({approx}30 wt%) were observed at the higher temperatures. Detailed structural and morphological characterisation were performed by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning and field emission electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and laser particle size analysis. Moreover, the surface modification of TiO{sub 2} particles through the formation of charge-transfer (CT) complex was achieved with different ligands: ascorbic acid, dopamine, catechol, 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene, and anthrarobin. Optical properties of the surface-modified TiO{sub 2} particles were studied by using diffuse reflection spectroscopy. The binding structure between the surface titanium atoms and different ligands was determined by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The formation of CT complexes induced significant red shift of optical absorption in comparison to unmodified TiO{sub 2} particles.

  9. Bactericidal effect of blue LED light irradiated TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles on fish pathogen in seawater

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cheng, T.C. [Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan (China); Yao, K.S. [Department of Horticulture, National Taitung Junior College, Taiwan (China); Yeh, N. [Mingdao University, Taiwan (China); Chang, C.I. [Aquaculture Division, Fisheries Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Taiwan (China); Hsu, H.C. [Department of Life Science, Mingdao University, Taiwan (China); Gonzalez, F. [Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan (China); Chang, C.Y., E-mail: cyc1136@yahoo.com.tw [Center of General Education, National Taitung Junior College, Taiwan (China)

    2011-05-31

    This study uses blue LED light ({lambda}{sub max} = 475 nm) activated TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles to evaluate the particles' photocatalytic activity efficiency and bactericidal effects in seawater of variable salinities. Different TiO{sub 2} to Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} mole ratios have been synthesized using sol-gel method. The synthesized particles contain mainly anatase TiO{sub 2}, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} and FeTiO{sub 3}. The study has identified TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}'s bactericidal effect to marine fish pathogen (Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida BCRC17065) in seawater. The SEM photo reveals the surface destruction in bacteria incubated with blue LED irradiated TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}. The result of this study indicates that 1) TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} acquires photocatalytic activities in both the freshwater and the seawater via blue LED irradiation, 2) higher photocatalytic activities appear in solutions of higher TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} mole ratio, and 3) photocatalytic activity decreases as salinity increases. These results suggest that the energy saving blue LED light is a feasible light source to activate TiO{sub 2}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} photocatalytic activities in both freshwater and seawater.

  10. Production and characterization of submicron hematite (α−Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) particles by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kırcı, Burak; Ebin, Burçak; Gürmen, Sebahattin [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Istanbul Technical University Istanbul (Turkey)

    2013-12-16

    The ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) method has been used to prepare submicron hematite (α−Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) particles using two different industrial pickling solutions of iron chloride (41 g/L FeCl{sub 2} and 54 g/L FeCl{sub 3}) Particles were obtained by thermal decomposition of generated aerosols from precursor solutions using 1.7 MHz ultrasonic atomizer. Reaction temperature was set up at 800 °C and aerosol droplets were carried into the heated zone by 0.7 L/min air flow rate. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) studies were used to determine the crystal structure and crystallite size of the particles. Results indicate that patterns correspond to hematite phase with rhombohedral crystal structure (space group: R3c). The crystallite sizes of particles prepared from FeCl{sub 2} and FeCl{sub 3} solutions that were calculated from Scherrer equation are 59 and 33 nm, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) investigations give detailed information about particle size, morphology and composition. SEM micrographs show that hematite nanoparticles aggregate and formed spherical secondary particles in submicron range.

  11. Nanoscale morphology of Ni{sub 50}Ti{sub 45}Cu{sub 5} nanoglass

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Śniadecki, Z., E-mail: sniadecki@ifmpan.poznan.pl [Institute of Molecular Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Smoluchowskiego 17, 60-179 Poznań (Poland); Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Wang, D. [Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Karlsruhe Nano Micro Facility, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Ivanisenko, Yu. [Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Chakravadhanula, V.S.K. [Karlsruhe Nano Micro Facility, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Helmholtz Institute Ulm, Helmholtzstraße 11, 89081, Ulm (Germany); Joint Research Laboratory Nanomaterials (KIT-TUD), Institute of Materials Science, TU Darmstadt, Jovanka-Bontschits-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Kübel, C. [Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Karlsruhe Nano Micro Facility, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Hahn, H. [Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (Germany); Joint Research Laboratory Nanomaterials (KIT-TUD), Institute of Materials Science, TU Darmstadt, Jovanka-Bontschits-Str. 2, 64287 Darmstadt (Germany); Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Herbert Gleiter Institute of Nanoscience, Building 340, Nanjing, Jiangsu 2 10094 (China); and others

    2016-03-15

    Nanoglasses are noncrystalline solids with a granular nano-/microstructure. In contrast to their nanocrystalline analogs, typically constituted of grains and grain boundaries, nanoglasses consist of glassy regions with a structure corresponding to melt-quenched glasses and amorphous interfaces characterized by a reduced density. Their unique properties can be controlled by modifying size and chemical composition of the granular and interfacial regions. Ni{sub 50}Ti{sub 45}Cu{sub 5} amorphous films were obtained by magnetron sputtering and analyzed to determine their nanoscale morphology and the formation mechanisms. The nanoglasses were noted to have a hierarchical nano-columnar structure with the smallest Ni-rich (Ni:Ti ratio of ca. 5:3) amorphous columns with diameters of about 8 nm and Ti-rich glassy interfacial regions with a substantially lower density. The results were obtained utilizing X-ray diffraction and different microscopic methods, e.g., atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. A detailed analysis indicates the complexity of the formation mechanisms of topologically and chemically distinguishable structural units with curvature driven surface diffusion, surface mobility, self-shadowing and internal stresses as the most important parameters. Common and simple synthesis method and the possibility for easy modification of the morphology and, consequently, the physical properties offer an opportunity for intensive studies of this new class of materials, opening the way towards possible applications. - Highlights: • Ni{sub 50}Ti{sub 45}Cu{sub 5} thin film nanoglasses were synthesized by magnetron sputtering. • Ti amorphous interfacial phase with reduced density is observed. • Stabilization of interfaces by specific local thermodynamic conditions.

  12. Suppression of roll-off characteristics of organic light-emitting diodes by narrowing current injection/transport area to 50nm

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hayashi, Kyohei, E-mail: k-hayashi@bioorg.rcast.u-tokyo.ac.jp; Inoue, Munetomo; Yoshida, Kou [Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics Research (OPERA), Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); Nakanotani, Hajime [Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics Research (OPERA), Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); JST, ERATO, Adachi Molecular Exciton Engineering Project, c/o OPERA, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); Innovative Organic Device Laboratory, Institute of Systems, Information Technologies and Nanotechnologies (ISIT), 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); Mikhnenko, Oleksandr; Nguyen, Thuc-Quyen, E-mail: quyen@chem.ucsb.edu, E-mail: adachi@cstf.kyushu-u.ac.jp [Center for Polymers and Organic Solids, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106-9510 (United States); Adachi, Chihaya, E-mail: quyen@chem.ucsb.edu, E-mail: adachi@cstf.kyushu-u.ac.jp [Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics Research (OPERA), Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); JST, ERATO, Adachi Molecular Exciton Engineering Project, c/o OPERA, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); Innovative Organic Device Laboratory, Institute of Systems, Information Technologies and Nanotechnologies (ISIT), 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan); International Institute for Carbon Neutral Energy Research (WPI-I2CNER), Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi, Fukuoka 819-0395 (Japan)

    2015-03-02

    Using e-beam nanolithography, the current injection/transport area in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) was confined into a narrow linear structure with a minimum width of 50nm. This caused suppression of Joule heating and partial separation of polarons and excitons, so the charge density where the electroluminescent efficiency decays to the half of the initial value (J{sub 0}) was significantly improved. A device with a narrow current injection width of 50nm exhibited a J{sub 0} that was almost two orders of magnitude higher compared with that of the unpatterned OLED.

  13. 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.

  14. Effect of amorphous Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50} on hydriding and dehydriding behavior of Mg{sub 2}Ni alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Guzman, D., E-mail: danny.guzman@uda.cl [Departamento de Ingenieria en Metalurgia, Facultad de Ingenieria, Universidad de Atacama y Centro Regional de Investigacion y Desarrollo Sustentable de Atacama (CRIDESAT), Av. Copayapu 485, Copiapo (Chile); Ordonez, S. [Departamento de Ingenieria Metalurgica, Facultad de Ingenieria, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Av. Lib. Bernardo O' Higgins 3363, Santiago (Chile); Fernandez, J.F.; Sanchez, C. [Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco 28049, Madrid (Spain); Serafini, D. [Departamento de Fisica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Santiago de Chile and Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Materials, CIMAT, Av. Lib. Bernardo O' Higgins 3363, Santiago (Chile); Rojas, P.A. [Escuela de Ingenieria Mecanica, Facultad de Ingenieria, Av. Los Carrera 01567, Quilpue, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso, PUCV (Chile); Aguilar, C. [Departamento de Ingenieria Metalurgica y Materiales, Universidad Tecnica Federico Santa Maria, Av. Espana 1680, Valparaiso (Chile); Tapia, P. [Departamento de Ingenieria en Metalurgia, Facultad de Ingenieria, Universidad de Atacama, Av. Copayapu 485, Copiapo (Chile)

    2011-04-15

    Composite Mg{sub 2}Ni (25 wt.%) amorphous Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50} was prepared by mechanical milling starting with nanocrystalline Mg{sub 2}Ni and amorphous Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50} powders, by using a SPEX 8000 D mill. The morphological and microstructural characterization of the powders was performed via scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The hydriding characterization of the composite was performed via a solid gas reaction method in a Sievert's-type apparatus at 363 K under an initial hydrogen pressure of 2 MPa. The dehydriding behavior was studied by differential thermogravimetry. On the basis of the results, it is possible to conclude that amorphous Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50} improved the hydriding and dehydriding kinetics of Mg{sub 2}Ni alloy upon cycling. A tentative rationalization of experimental observations is proposed. - Research Highlights: {yields} First study of the hydriding behavior of composite Mg{sub 2}Ni (25 wt.%) amorphous Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50}. {yields} Microstructural characterization of composite material using XRD and SEM was obtained. {yields} An improved effect of Mg{sub 50}Ni{sub 50} on the Mg{sub 2}Ni hydriding behavior was verified. {yields} The apparent activation energy for the hydrogen desorption of composite was obtained.

  15. Particle size effect on magnetic and transport properties of La/sub 0.7/Ca/sub 0.3/MnO/sub 3/ nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qaseem, S.; Mumtaz, A.; Hasanain, S.K.; Maaz, K.

    2010-01-01

    La/sub 0.7/Ca/sub 0.3/MnO/sub 3/ nanoparticles have been synthesized by modified citrate route with particle sizes of 20, 26 and 32 +- 3 nm respectively. The structural characterization has been performed by XRD and TEM analyses while magnetic characterization has been performed by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). This work presents the study of size effects on magnetic and electrical properties of Ca-doped CMR nanoparticles (La/sub 0.7/Ca/sub 0.3.MnO/sub 3/). Different particle sizes have been prepared by a wet chemical route. Magnetic characterization reveals that magnetization increases with the increase in the particle size and the magnetic transition temperature for larger particles is the same as in the bulk (258K). The ferromagnetic and resistive transitions are however broad compared to the case of bulk presumably due to the role of the surface. The metal-insulator transition temperature is found to be at 158K while the resistivity shows anomalous low temperature behavior with an upturn at low temperatures presu due to coulomb blockade effects. Furthermore, the field dependence of the resistivity displays nonmonotonic behavior and is explained in terms of the field assisted tunneling between grains. (author)

  16. Plasmonic nanoparticle lithography: Fast resist-free laser technique for large-scale sub-50 nm hole array fabrication

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pan, Zhenying; Yu, Ye Feng; Valuckas, Vytautas; Yap, Sherry L. K.; Vienne, Guillaume G.; Kuznetsov, Arseniy I.

    2018-05-01

    Cheap large-scale fabrication of ordered nanostructures is important for multiple applications in photonics and biomedicine including optical filters, solar cells, plasmonic biosensors, and DNA sequencing. Existing methods are either expensive or have strict limitations on the feature size and fabrication complexity. Here, we present a laser-based technique, plasmonic nanoparticle lithography, which is capable of rapid fabrication of large-scale arrays of sub-50 nm holes on various substrates. It is based on near-field enhancement and melting induced under ordered arrays of plasmonic nanoparticles, which are brought into contact or in close proximity to a desired material and acting as optical near-field lenses. The nanoparticles are arranged in ordered patterns on a flexible substrate and can be attached and removed from the patterned sample surface. At optimized laser fluence, the nanohole patterning process does not create any observable changes to the nanoparticles and they have been applied multiple times as reusable near-field masks. This resist-free nanolithography technique provides a simple and cheap solution for large-scale nanofabrication.

  17. Preparation and characterization of sub-20 nm Cu{sub X}@Ag{sub 1} core-shell nanoparticles by changing concentration of silver precursor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chee, Sang-Soo; Lee, Jong-Hyun, E-mail: pljh@snut.ac.kr

    2017-01-01

    Ultrafine Ag-coated Cu (Cu@Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) less than 20 nm in diameter were prepared. After synthesizing ultrafine Cu NPs using a solvothermal method to serve as the core particles, Cu@Ag NPs were fabricated with different initial Ag precursor concentrations, resulting in different thicknesses, densities, and uniformities of Ag shells. The average thickness and density of the Ag shell increased with increasing initial Ag precursor concentration in a Cu:Ag atomic ratio from 6:1 to 1:1. However, excessive Ag precursor concentrations induced homogeneous nucleation and growth of surplus fine pure NPs. Ag dewetting behavior and Cu oxidation in the Cu{sub 4}@Ag{sub 1} NPs were observed, they occurred during heating at 200 and 250 °C, respectively. The electrical resistivities of sintered Cu{sub 4}@Ag{sub 1} films decreased with increasing temperature from 200 to 240 °C. The resistivity after washing the OA and sintering for 60 min at 240 °C in air was measured to be 4.96 × 10{sup −3} Ω cm. The film was sintered in nitrogen using the ink containing non-washed Cu{sub 4}@Ag{sub 1} NPs indicated the lower resistivity of 2.70 × 10{sup −3} Ω cm owing to the non-oxidation atmosphere, although the chemically capped oleylamine in the core-shell NPs hindered the sintering behavior. - Highlights: • Ultrafine Ag-coated Cu nanoparticles less than 20 nm in diameter were fabricated. • Different Ag precursor concentrations influenced thickness and density of Ag shell. • Excessive Ag precursor concentrations induced formation of surplus fine pure NPs. • Ag dewetting behavior and Cu oxidation in Cu{sub 4}@Ag{sub 1} nanoparticles were observed. • Electrical resistivities of sintered Cu{sub 4}@Ag{sub 1} films were 2.70–4.96 × 10{sup −3} Ω cm.

  18. Hierarchically structured carbon-coated SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} microparticles with enhanced lithium storage performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chai, Xiaohan; Shi, Chunsheng [School of Materials Science and Engineering and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composites and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); Liu, Enzuo [School of Materials Science and Engineering and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composites and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tianjin 300072 (China); Li, Jiajun [School of Materials Science and Engineering and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composites and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); Zhao, Naiqin [School of Materials Science and Engineering and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composites and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tianjin 300072 (China); Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); He, Chunnian, E-mail: cnhe08@tju.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composites and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China); Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tianjin 300072 (China); Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 (China)

    2016-01-15

    Graphical abstract: Hierarchically structured SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C microparticles for lithium-ion battery anode are developed by a facile and scalable strategy. - Highlights: • Hierarchically structured SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C micrometer-sized particles were synthesized. • The SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C micrometer-sized particles deliver high reversible lithium storage capacity. • The wrapped carbon layer can buffer the volume expansion of SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}. - Abstract: A facile and scalable strategy was developed to fabricate SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C micrometer-sized particles as a good lithium-ion battery anode. The obtained materials were constructed by aggregated nanoclusters (100–200 nm) consisting of SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C nanospheres (20 ∼ 30 nm), in which SnO{sub 2} and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles (5 ∼ 8 nm) were homogeneously embedded in a percolating carbonaceous network with an average thickness of about 3 nm. SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C microparticles were synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal process followed by annealing under Ar and subsequent chemical vapor transformation (CVT) under vacuum. The peculiar strategy allows to obtain hierarchical structure of micrometer-sized particles including nanospheres, nanoclusters and micro-scale particles, and the combination of SnO{sub 2} and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} could promote the synergistic effects to enhance the reversible capacity as well as the structural stability. Meanwhile, the carbon layer, homogeneously covering the nanoparticles does not only accommodate the volume change of active materials to maintain the structural integrity but also forms a conductive network throughout the whole micro-sized structure during charge/discharge processes. As a result, the electrode of SnO{sub 2}-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C microparticles exhibits good rate performance (1056 mAh g{sup −1} at 0.1 C, 734 mAh g{sup −1} at 0.2 C, 449 mAh g{sup −1} at 0.5 C, 212

  19. Hygroscopicity and chemical composition of Antarctic sub-micrometre aerosol particles and observations of new particle formation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    E. Asmi

    2010-05-01

    Full Text Available The Antarctic near-coastal sub-micrometre aerosol particle features in summer were characterised based on measured data on aerosol hygroscopicity, size distributions, volatility and chemical ion and organic carbon mass concentrations. Hysplit model was used to calculate the history of the air masses to predict the particle origin. Additional measurements of meteorological parameters were utilised. The hygroscopic properties of particles mostly resembled those of marine aerosols. The measurements took place at 130 km from the Southern Ocean, which was the most significant factor affecting the particle properties. This is explained by the lack of additional sources on the continent of Antarctica. The Southern Ocean was thus a likely source of the particles and nucleating and condensing vapours. The particles were very hygroscopic (HGF 1.75 at 90 nm and very volatile. Most of the sub-100 nm particle volume volatilised below 100 °C. Based on chemical data, particle hygroscopic and volatile properties were explained by a large fraction of non-neutralised sulphuric acid together with organic material. The hygroscopic growth factors assessed from chemical data were similar to measured. Hygroscopicity was higher in dry continental air masses compared with the moist marine air masses. This was explained by the aging of the marine organic species and lower methanesulphonic acid volume fraction together with the changes in the inorganic aerosol chemistry as the aerosol had travelled long time over the continental Antarctica. Special focus was directed in detailed examination of the observed new particle formation events. Indications of the preference of negative over positive ions in nucleation could be detected. However, in a detailed case study, the neutral particles dominated the particle formation process. Freshly nucleated particles had the smallest hygroscopic growth factors, which increased subsequent to particle aging.

  20. The effect of diameter ratio between transducers and reactor in sonication-assisted synthesis of Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Manaf, A., E-mail: azwar@ui.ac.id; Fahmi, Agam Aidil [Department of Physics, FMIPA, Universitas Indonesia, Kampus UI Depok (Indonesia); Yustanti, Erlina [Department of Physics, FMIPA, Universitas Indonesia, Kampus UI Depok (Indonesia); Department of Metallurgy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sultan AgengTirtayasa Jl. Jenderal Sudirman KM 03 Cilegon-Banten 65134 (Indonesia)

    2016-04-19

    This paper describes the particle size characterization of mechanically alloyed Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3} prepared with the aid of a high-power ultrasonic destruction. Analytical-grade BaCO{sub 3}, TiO{sub 2} and SrCO{sub 3} with a purity greater than 99 wt.% were used as precursors for Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3}. The mechanically powders were respectively sintered at 1200 °C for 3 hours to form crystalline powders. This work is aimed at studying the effect of diameter ratio between reactor and transducer of a high power sonicator on the Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3} nanoparticles formation. The presence of a single phase of the two materials was confirmed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The concentration of the particles in demineralized water was 3.0 g / 100 mL which become the object of 3 hours ultrasonic destruction subjected to the application of transducer in which the ratio between the diameter of the reactor and the transducer (D/d) was fixed at 1.4, 1.6 and 1.8 respectively. It was found that the mean particle size before the ultrasonic destruction was 538 nm for Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and 480 nm for Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3}. With D/d of 1.8, the mean particle size of the two materials was found to decrease drastically to 38 nm and 24 nm, respectively. These mean particle sizes were respectively comparable with that of the crystallite size of the particles derived using the Whole Powder Pattern Modelling (WPPM) from which the mean crystallite size of 22 nm for Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and 14 nm for Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3} were obtained. It is then confirmed single nanocrystallite Ba{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}TiO{sub 3} and Ba{sub 0.3}Sr{sub 0.7}TiO{sub 3} particles were already achieved. We can conclude that the ultrasonic destruction to mechanically milled crystalline particles would be one

  1. Size dependent magnetic and magneto-optical properties of Ni{sub 0.2}Zn{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Oksana A., E-mail: log85@mail.ru [Department of Applied Physics, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China); Siberian Federal University, Krasnoyarsk 660041 (Russian Federation); Lin, Chun-Rong, E-mail: crlin@mail.nptu.edu.tw [Department of Applied Physics, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China); Chen, Hung-Yi; Hsu, Hua-Shu [Department of Applied Physics, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China); Shih, Kun-Yauh [Department of Applied Chemistry, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China); Edelman, Irina S. [L.V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk 660036 (Russian Federation); Wu, Kai-Wun; Tseng, Yaw-Teng [Department of Applied Physics, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China); Ovchinnikov, Sergey G. [Siberian Federal University, Krasnoyarsk 660041 (Russian Federation); L.V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk 660036 (Russian Federation); Lee, Jiann-Shing [Department of Applied Physics, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90003, Taiwan (China)

    2016-06-15

    Ni{sub 0.2}Zn{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinel nanoparticles have been synthesized by combustion method. Average particles size varies from 15.5 to 50.0 nm depending on annealing temperature. Correlations between particles size and magnetic and magneto-optical properties are investigated. Magnetization dependences on temperature and external magnetic field correspond to the sum of paramagnetic and superparamagnetic response. Critical size of single-domain transition is found to be 15.9 nm. Magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) studies of nickel zinc spinel are presented here for the first time. The features in magnetic circular dichroism spectrum are assigned to the one-ion d–d transitions in Fe{sup 3+} and Ni{sup 2+} ions, as well to the intersublattice and intervalence charge transfer transitions. The MCD spectrum rearrangement was revealed with the change of the nanoparticles size. - Highlights: • Ni{sub 0.2}Zn{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were synthesized by combustion method. • Structure and magnetic properties are studied. • Magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) of nickel zinc spinel was measured for the first time. • The MCD spectrum rearrangement was revealed with the change of the nanoparticles size.

  2. Hygroscopic growth of sub-micrometer and one-micrometer aerosol particles measured during ACE-Asia

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. Massling

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available Hygroscopic properties of aerosol particles in the sub-micrometer and one-micrometer size ranges were measured during the ACE-Asia study (Aerosol Characterization Experiment-Asia in spring 2001. The measurements took place off the coasts of Japan, Korea, and China. All instruments contributing to this study were deployed in a container on the forward deck of the NOAA Research Vessel Ronald H. Brown. Air masses with primarily marine influence and air masses from the Asian continent affected by both anthropogenic sources and by the transport of desert dust aerosol were encountered during the cruise.

    Results showed very different hygroscopic behavior in the sub-micrometer size range compared to the one-micrometer size range. In general, for all continentally influenced air masses, the one-micrometer particle population was characterized by two different particle groups – a nearly hydrophobic fraction with growth factors around 1.0 representative of dust particles and a sea salt fraction with hygroscopic growth factors around 2.0. The number fraction of dust particles was generally about 60% independent of long-range air mass origin.

    For sub-micrometer particles, a dominant, more hygroscopic particle fraction with growth factors between 1.5 and 1.9 (depending on dry particle size consistent with ammonium sulfate or non-neutralized sulfates as major component was always found. In marine air masses and for larger sizes within the sub-micrometer range (Dp=250 and 350 nm, a sea salt fraction with growth factors between 2.0 and 2.1 was also observed. For all other air masses, the more hygroscopic particle fraction in the sub-micrometer size range was mostly accompanied by a less hygroscopic particle fraction with growth factors between 1.20 and 1.55 depending on both the continental sources and the dry particle size. Number fractions of this particle group varied between 4 and 39% depending on dry particle size and air mass

  3. Synthesis and characterization of metastable, 20 nm-sized Pna2{sub 1}-LiCoPO{sub 4} nanospheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ludwig, Jennifer [Technical University of Munich, Department of Chemistry, Synthesis and Characterization of Innovative Materials, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching (Germany); Nordlund, Dennis [Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, 2575 Sand Hill Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025 (United States); Doeff, Marca M. [Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Environmental Energy Technologies Division, 1 Cyclotron Rd, Berkeley, CA 94720 (United States); Nilges, Tom, E-mail: tom.nilges@lrz.tum.de [Technical University of Munich, Department of Chemistry, Synthesis and Characterization of Innovative Materials, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching (Germany)

    2017-04-15

    The majority of research activities on LiCoPO{sub 4} are focused on the phospho-olivine (space group Pnma), which is a promising high-voltage cathode material for Li-ion batteries. In contrast, comparably little is known about its metastable Pna2{sub 1} modification. Herein, we present a comprehensive study on the structure–property relationships of 15–20 nm Pna2{sub 1}-LiCoPO{sub 4} nanospheres prepared by a simple microwave-assisted solvothermal process. Unlike previous reports, the results indicate that the compound is non-stoichiometric and shows cation-mixing with Co ions on the Li sites, which provides an explanation for the poor electrochemical performance. Co L{sub 2,3}-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopic data confirm the local tetrahedral symmetry of Co{sup 2+}. Comprehensive studies on the thermal stability using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and in situ powder X-ray diffraction show an exothermic phase transition to olivine Pnma-LiCoPO{sub 4} at 527 °C. The influence of the atmosphere and the particle size on the thermal stability is also investigated. - Graphical abstract: Blue nano-sized Pna2{sub 1}-LiCoPO{sub 4,} featuring tetrahedrally-coordinated Co{sup 2+}, was synthesized in a rapid one-step microwave-assisted solvothermal process. The phase relation between this metastable and the stable polymorph was analyzed and electrochemical properties are discussed. - Highlights: • Preparation of uniform 15–20 nm nanospheres of metastable Pna2{sub 1}-LiCoPO{sub 4} polymorph. • Structure redetermination shows cation-mixing (Co blocking Li sites). • In situ investigation of phase transformation to olivine Pnma-LiCoPO{sub 4} at 527 °C. • Pna2{sub 1}-LiCoPO{sub 4} reemerges as a stable high-temperature phase above 800 °C. • X-ray absorption spectroscopy confirms local tetrahedral symmetry (T{sub d} Co{sup 2+}).

  4. Synthesis of magnetic Fe sub 3 O sub 4 particles covered with a modifiable phospholipid coat

    CERN Document Server

    Cuyper, M D; Lueken, H; Hodenius, M

    2003-01-01

    This work reports the synthesis of iron oxide cores by coprecipitation of Fe sup 2 sup + and Fe sup 3 sup + ions with NaHCO sub 3 or NH sub 3. Depending on the experimental conditions, particles of two different sizes (13 or 130 nm diameter) were produced. X-ray diffractometry revealed Fe sub 3 O sub 4 (magnetite) to be the main constituent. The smaller particles, which, in contrast to the larger ones, are superparamagnetic, were stabilized with a phospholipid bilayer consisting of a 9:1 molar ratio of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol, thereby creating so-called magnetoliposomes. In a subsequent step, poly(ethylene glycol)-(PEG-) derivatized dipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine was introduced into the lipid envelope by incubating the magnetoliposomes with pre-formed sonicated vesicles containing the PEGylated lipid. The mechanism by which lipid transfer occurred was determined from the kinetic profiles. The relevance of these observations to a wide range of biomedical applicat...

  5. Magnetic relaxation phenomena and inter-particle interactions in nanosized gamma-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 systems

    CERN Document Server

    Predoi, D; Tronc, E; Nogues, M; Russo, U; Principi, G; Filoti, G

    2003-01-01

    Samples of gamma-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 nano-particles with a mean size of 4.0(3) nm and with different hydration and surfactant degrees were prepared by sol-gel methods. Morphology and structural data were obtained by transmission electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction, whereas the surface effects and hyperfine interactions were analysed mainly by Moessbauer spectroscopy. The relative number of surface iron positions was found to be proportional to the amount of OH sup - and SO sub 4 sup 2 sup - groups on the particle surface, which in turn is strictly dependent on the preparation conditions. Strong relaxation processes versus temperature were evidenced in the analysed systems. New criteria for the evaluation of the blocking temperature via Moessbauer measurements are proposed. The results are in good agreement with blocking temperatures obtained by magnetic measurements. Moreover, it was shown that the inter-particle magnetic interactions decrease with the number of iron surface states.

  6. Layer structured Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} particles as a visible-light-driven photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lu, Yuting; Chen, Luyang; Huang, Yanlin [College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123 (China); Chen, Cuili; Kim, Sun Il [Department of Physics and Interdisciplinary Program of Biomedical, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 608-737 (Korea, Republic of); Seo, Hyo Jin, E-mail: hjseo@pknu.ac.kr [Department of Physics and Interdisciplinary Program of Biomedical, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 608-737 (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-03-15

    Highlights: • Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} nanoparticles were developed by Pechini method. • The nanoparticles show high absorption in UV–vis wavelength region. • Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} has high activity in the MB dye degradation under visible light. • Hexagonal layers with heavily distorted NiO{sub 6} were superiority for photocatalysis. - Abstract: A new visible-light-driven photocatalyst of Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} particle was prepared by the modified Pechini method. The crystal structure was measured by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the structural refinement. The sample was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV–vis absorption spectrum measurements. The average size of Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} particle is about 180 nm. Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} particle have an efficient optical absorption in the UV–visible light wavelength region with a direct allowed electronic transition of 2.06 eV. The effective photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye was demonstrated, which benefits from the special crystal structure of Na{sub 2}Ni(MoO{sub 4}){sub 2} particle. This crystal lattice has two infinite chains formed by (Ni,Na)O{sub 6} and MoO{sub 4} polyhedra standing in lines alone with the inner wall of the hexagonal tunnels. This results in the efficient optical absorption and provides more chances for electron–hole separations, which can further react with dye molecules to oxidize the dye pollutant into non-toxic products.

  7. Sub-50-nm self-assembled nanotextures for enhanced broadband antireflection in silicon solar cells.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Rahman, Atikur; Ashraf, Ahsan; Xin, Huolin; Tong, Xiao; Sutter, Peter; Eisaman, Matthew D; Black, Charles T

    2015-01-21

    Materials providing broadband light antireflection have applications as highly transparent window coatings, military camouflage, and coatings for efficiently coupling light into solar cells and out of light-emitting diodes. In this work, densely packed silicon nanotextures with feature sizes smaller than 50nm enhance the broadband antireflection compared with that predicted by their geometry alone. A significant fraction of the nanotexture volume comprises a surface layer whose optical properties differ substantially from those of the bulk, providing the key to improved performance. The nanotexture reflectivity is quantitatively well-modelled after accounting for both its profile and changes in refractive index at the surface. We employ block copolymer self-assembly for precise and tunable nanotexture design in the range of ~10-70 nm across macroscopic solar cell areas. Implementing this efficient antireflection approach in crystalline silicon solar cells significantly betters the performance gain compared with an optimized, planar antireflection coating.

  8. Synthesis of sub-10 nm VO2 nanoparticles films with plasma-treated glass slides by aqueous sol–gel method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lan, Shi-Di; Cheng, Chih-Chia; Huang, Chi-Hsien; Chen, Jem-Kun

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Sub-10 nm VO 2 nanoparticles (VNPs) are synthesized on a plasma-treated glass. • Glass slides generate negative charges sites after plasma treatment to attract VO 2 + . • Doping tungsten with 1 wt% in VNPs did not change particle size significantly. • The particle size of VNP can be tuned by the density of negative charge sites. • Sub-10 nm structured VO 2 particle films exhibited high visible transmittance. - Abstract: This paper describes an aqueous sol–gel synthesis of thermochromic thin films consisted of vanadium dioxide nanoparticles (VNPs) on glass slides. The glass slides were treated by argon/oxygen plasma to generate dispersedly negative charge sites on the surface to attract VO 2 + from a sol–gel solution. After heat treatment in a low-pressure carbon monoxide/carbon dioxide (CO/CO 2 ) atmosphere, the VNPs could be generated in sub-10 nm of particle size on the surface. Various levels of doping were achieved by adding small quantities of a water-soluble tungsten compound to the sol; however, the particle size increased slightly with the tungsten doping levels. The change in electrical conductivity with temperature for VNP films were measured and compared to VO 2 crystalline films. VNP films exhibited the lower transition temperature of the semiconductor to metal phase change; at a doping level of 4 wt% the transition temperature was measured at 32.2 ± 1.2 and 24.1 ± 1.2 °C for the VO 2 and VNP films, respectively. The VNP films showed excellent visible transparency and a large change in transmittance at near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths before and after the metal–insulator phase transition (MIT). The current method is a landmark in the development of nanostructured material toward applications in energy-saving smart windows.

  9. Radon decay products and 10-1100 nm aerosol particles in Postojna Cave

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bezek, M.; Gregorič, A.; Vaupotič, J.

    2013-03-01

    At the lowest point along the tourist route in Postojna Cave, the activity concentration of radon (222Rn) decay products and the number concentration and size distribution of aerosol particles in the size range of 10-1100 nm were monitored, with the focus on the unattached fraction (fun) of radon decay products (RnDPs), a key parameter in radon dosimetry. The total number concentration of aerosols during visits in summer was lower (700 cm-3) than in winter (2800 cm-3), and was dominated by 50 nm particles (related to the attached RnDPs) in winter. This explains the higher fun values in summer (0.75) and the lower winter measurement (0.04) and, consequently, DCFD values of 43.6 and 13.1 mSv WLM-1 respectively for the calculated dose conversion factors. The difference is caused by an enhanced inflow of fresh outside air, driven in winter by the higher air temperature in the cave compared to outside, resulting in the introduction of outside aerosol particles into the cave.

  10. Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu{sup 3+}, Tb{sup 3+} spherical particles based anti-reflection and wavelength conversion bi-functional films: Synthesis and application to solar cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Miao, Hui [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Ji, Ruonan [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Hu, Xiaoyun, E-mail: hxy3275@nwu.edu.cn [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Han, Linzi; Hao, Yuanyuan; Sun, Qian [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Zhang, Dekai [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Fan, Jun [School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); Bai, Jintao [School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); National Photoelectric Technology and Functional Materials & Application of Science and Technology International Cooperation Base, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069 (China); and others

    2015-04-25

    Highlights: • Eu{sup 3+} and Tb{sup 3+} co-doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles were successfully prepared. The as prepared particles can convert UV region photos to visible photons between 460 nm and 640 nm, which just matched the spectral response of most solar cells. • Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} is not only a good photoluminescence host material, but also it has high corrosion resistivity, thermal stability, and transparency from violet to infrared light. Cooperated with SiO{sub 2} sols, it could realize a better anti-reflection property. • As a proof-of-concept application, the as prepared bi-functional films could effectively improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency by 0.23% compared to pure SiO{sub 2} AR coating film and 0.55% compared to glass. - Abstract: In this study, Eu{sup 3+} and Tb{sup 3+} co-doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles were prepared via the simple, cost-effective urea homogeneous precipitation method without additives. The chosen particles were added in the SiO{sub 2} sols to get anti-reflection (AR) and wavelength conversion bi-functional films. Careful investigations were carried out to find the optimum preparation conditions and proper morphology. SEM images showed that the particle sizes reduced as metal ion/urea ratio decreased. Additionally, the extracted particles turned from sphere to lamellar type when the deionized water, which was used as solvent, reduced to a certain extent. The mechanisms of the morphology formation and diversification were proposed as well. The as prepared materials can convert UV region photos to visible photons between 460 nm and 640 nm, which just matched the spectral response of most solar cells. The spherical sample showed better luminescence performance than the one with lamellar morphology. In addition, the optical transmittance spectra indicated that the films adding spherical particles had better anti-reflective performance, and the best adding amount was 0.08 g. Finally, As a proof-of-concept application

  11. Effect of calcination temperature on the H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition activity of nano-crystalline Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} prepared by combustion method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Makhlouf, M.Th. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516 Assiut (Egypt); Abu-Zied, B.M., E-mail: babuzied@aun.edu.eg [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516 Assiut (Egypt); Mansoure, T.H. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516 Assiut (Egypt)

    2013-06-01

    Cobalt oxide nano-particles were prepared by combustion method using urea as a combustion fuel. The effects of calcination temperature, 350–1000 °C, on the physicochemical, surface and catalytic properties of the prepared Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nano-particles were studied. The products were characterized by thermal analyses (TGA and DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Textural features of the obtained catalysts were investigated using nitrogen adsorption at −196 °C. X-ray diffraction confirmed that the resulting oxide was pure single-crystalline Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nano-particles. Transmission electron microscopy indicating that, the crystallite size of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nano-crystals was in the range of 8–34 nm. The catalytic activities of prepared nano-crystalline Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} catalysts were tested for H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition at 35–50 °C temperature range. Experimental results revealed that, the catalytic decomposition of H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decreases with increasing the calcination temperature. This was correlated with the observed particle size increase accompanying the calcination temperature rise.

  12. Synthesis, surface modification/decoration of luminescent–magnetic core/shell nanomaterials, based on the lanthanide doped fluorides (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/SiO{sub 2}/NH{sub 2}/PAA/LnF{sub 3})

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Runowski, Marcin; Lis, Stefan, E-mail: blis@amu.edu.pl

    2016-02-15

    The synthesized magnetite nanoparticles (10–15 nm) were successfully coated with amine modified silica nanoshell, which led to the formation of core/shell type nanostructures (30–50 nm). The as-prepared nanoparticles were surface modified with polyacrylic acid (PAA) via electrostatic interactions of –NH{sub 2} and –COOH groups. Afterwards, the surface PAA molecules acted as complexing agents of the introduced lanthanide (Ln{sup 3+}) ions. Subsequently, the as-prepared nanostructures were surface decorated with luminescent LnF{sub 3} nanoparticles, forming Eu{sup 3+} or Tb{sup 3+} doped Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/SiO{sub 2}/NH{sub 2}/PAA/LnF{sub 3} nanomaterials (50–100 nm). The obtained luminescent–magnetic products exhibited simultaneously bright red or green emission under UV lamp irradiation (λ{sub ex}=254 nm), and a response for the applied magnetic field (strong magnet attracts the colloidal particles, dispersed in aqueous medium). After the synthesis, properties of the nanomaterials were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and spectrofluorometry (analysis of excitation/emission spectra and luminescence decay curves). Such advanced nanomaterials can be potentially used in multimodal imaging, targeted therapies and as multifunctional contrast agents, novel luminescent–magnetic tracers, protection of documents, etc. - Highlights: • Luminescent–magnetic nanomaterials Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/SiO{sub 2}/NH{sub 2}/PAA/LnF{sub 3} were synthesized. • Core/shell nanostructures were obtained by surface modification of nanoparticles. • Luminescent lanthanide fluoride nanoparticles doped with Eu{sup 3+} and Tb{sup 3+} ions. • Multifunctional core/shell nanostructures exhibited red or green emission. • Nanomaterials formed stable aqueous colloids.

  13. Sub-10-nm Graphene Nanoribbons with Tunable Surface Functionalities for Lithium-ion Batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Yan-Sheng; Ao, Xiang; Liao, Jia-Liang; Jiang, Jianjun; Wang, Chundong; Chiang, Wei-Hung

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: •A green and scalable method to produce sub-10-nm GNR is present. •The surface functionality of sub-10-nm GNR is critical for the LIB properties. •The sub-10-nm GNR showed superior LIB capacity of 490.4 mAh g −1 after 100 cycles. -- Abstract: A systematic study to reveal the relationship between the surface oxygen-containing functionalities of sub-10-nm GNRs and their electrochemical properties for lithium-ion batteries has been presented. Sub-10-nm GNRs with controlled oxygen-containing groups were synthesized by a green and scalable intercalation-assisted unzipping SWCNTs. Detailed materials characterizations including TEM, XRD, Raman and XPS indicate that KNO 3 could be an effective intercalation agent to facilitate the SWCNT unzipping by reducing the strong Van der Waals force attraction of bundled SWCNT. The levels of surface functionalities of sub-10-nm GNR were tuned by carefully controlling the KMnO 4 concentration during the unzipping process. The electrochemical analysis suggests that the as-produced sub-10-nm GNR with 31.4 atomic percent (atom %) oxygen-containing functional groups showed the highest capacity of 490.4 mAh g −1 after 100 cycles. This work proposed that sub-10-nm GNRs with appropriate oxygen-functional groups can be a promising electrode material for high performance lithium-ion batteries.

  14. Evaluation of Microflow Digital Imaging Particle Analysis for Sub-Visible Particles Formulated with an Opaque Vaccine Adjuvant.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Grant E Frahm

    Full Text Available Microflow digital imaging (MDI has become a widely accepted method for assessing sub-visible particles in pharmaceutical formulations however, to date; no data have been presented on the utility of this methodology when formulations include opaque vaccine adjuvants. This study evaluates the ability of MDI to assess sub-visible particles under these conditions. A Fluid Imaging Technologies Inc. FlowCAM® instrument was used to assess a number of sub-visible particle types in solution with increasing concentrations of AddaVax™, a nanoscale squalene-based adjuvant. With the objective (10X used and the limitations of the sensor resolution, the instrument was incapable of distinguishing between sub-visible particles and AddaVax™ droplets at particle sizes less than 5 μm. The instrument was capable of imaging all particle types assessed (polystyrene beads, borosilicate glass, cellulose, polyethylene protein aggregate mimics, and lysozyme protein aggregates at sizes greater than 5 μm in concentrations of AddaVax™ up to 50% (vol:vol. Reduced edge gradients and a decrease in measured particle sizes were noted as adjuvant concentrations increased. No significant changes in particle counts were observed for polystyrene particle standards and lysozyme protein aggregates, however significant reductions in particle counts were observed for borosilicate (80% of original and cellulose (92% of original particles. This reduction in particle counts may be due to the opaque adjuvant masking translucent particles present in borosilicate and cellulose samples. Although the results suggest that the utility of MDI for assessing sub-visible particles in high concentrations of adjuvant may be highly dependent on particle morphology, we believe that further investigation of this methodology to assess sub-visible particles in challenging formulations is warranted.

  15. Sources of sub-micrometre particles near a major international airport

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Masiol

    2017-10-01

    Full Text Available The international airport of Heathrow is a major source of nitrogen oxides, but its contribution to the levels of sub-micrometre particles is unknown and is the objective of this study. Two sampling campaigns were carried out during warm and cold seasons at a site close to the airfield (1.2 km. Size spectra were largely dominated by ultrafine particles: nucleation particles ( < 30 nm were found to be  ∼ 10 times higher than those commonly measured in urban background environments of London. Five clusters and six factors were identified by applying k means cluster analysis and positive matrix factorisation (PMF, respectively, to particle number size distributions; their interpretation was based on their modal structures, wind directionality, diurnal patterns, road and airport traffic volumes, and on the relationship with weather and other air pollutants. Airport emissions, fresh and aged road traffic, urban accumulation mode, and two secondary sources were then identified and apportioned. The fingerprint of Heathrow has a characteristic modal structure peaking at  < 20 nm and accounts for 30–35 % of total particles in both the seasons. Other main contributors are fresh (24–36 % and aged (16–21 % road traffic emissions and urban accumulation from London (around 10 %. Secondary sources accounted for less than 6 % in number concentrations but for more than 50 % in volume concentration. The analysis of a strong regional nucleation event showed that both the cluster categorisation and PMF contributions were affected during the first 6 h of the event. In 2016, the UK government provisionally approved the construction of a third runway; therefore the direct and indirect impact of Heathrow on local air quality is expected to increase unless mitigation strategies are applied successfully.

  16. Preparation and Loading with Rifampicin of Sub-50nm Poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate Nanoparticles by Semicontinuous Heterophase Polymerization

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    H. Saade

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available We report the preparation of poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate (PECA nanoparticles by semicontinuous heterophase polymerization carried out at monomer starved conditions at three monomer addition rates. Particles in the nanometer range were obtained, the size of which diminishes with decreasing monomer addition rate as shown by the fact that particles with mean diameters of ca. 42 and 30 nm were obtained at the faster and intermediate dosing rates, respectively, whereas two populations of particles, one of 15.5 and the other of 36 nm in mean diameters, were produced at the slower dosing rate. The obtained molecular weights were from 2,200 to 3,500 g/mol, depending on the addition rate, which are typical of the anionic polymerizations of cyanoacrylates in aqueous dispersions at low pHs. The rifampicin (RIF loading into the nanoparticles was successful since the entire drug added was incorporated. The drug release study carried out at pH of 7.2 indicated a faster release from the free RIF at intermediate and larger release times as expected since, in the nanoparticles, first the drug has to diffuse through the nanoparticle structure. The comparison of several drug release models indicates that the RIF release from PECA nanoparticles follows that of Higuchi.

  17. Fabrication of magnetic and fluorescent chitin and dibutyrylchitin sub-micron particles by oil-in-water emulsification.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Blanco-Fernandez, Barbara; Chakravarty, Shatadru; Nkansah, Michael K; Shapiro, Erik M

    2016-11-01

    Chitin is a carbohydrate polymer with unique pharmacological and immunological properties, however, because of its unwieldy chemistry, the synthesis of discreet sized sub-micron particles has not been well reported. This work describes a facile and flexible method to fabricate biocompatible chitin and dibutyrylchitin sub-micron particles. This technique is based on an oil-in-water emulsification/evaporation method and involves the hydrophobization of chitin by the addition of labile butyryl groups onto chitin, disrupting intermolecular hydrogen bonds and enabling solubility in the organic solvent used as the oil phase during fabrication. The subsequent removal of butyryl groups post-fabrication through alkaline saponification regenerates native chitin while keeping particles morphology intact. Examples of encapsulation of hydrophobic dyes and nanocrystals are demonstrated, specifically using iron oxide nanocrystals and coumarin 6. The prepared particles had diameters between 300-400nm for dibutyrylchitin and 500-600nm for chitin and were highly cytocompatible. Moreover, they were able to encapsulate high amounts of iron oxide nanocrystals and were able to label mammalian cells. We describe a technique to prepare sub-micron particles of highly acetylated chitin (>90%) and dibutyrylchitin and demonstrate their utility as carriers for imaging. Chitin is a polysaccharide capable of stimulating the immune system, a property that depends on the acetamide groups, but its insolubility limits its use. No method for sub-micron particle preparation with highly acetylated chitins have been published. The only approach for the preparation of sub-micron particles uses low acetylation chitins. Dibutyrylchitin, a soluble chitin derivative, was used to prepare particles by oil in water emulsification. Butyryl groups were then removed, forming chitin particles. These particles could be suitable for encapsulation of hydrophobic payloads for drug delivery and cell imaging, as well as

  18. Effects of 20–100 nm particles on liquid clouds in the clean summertime Arctic

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    W. R. Leaitch

    2016-09-01

    Full Text Available Observations addressing effects of aerosol particles on summertime Arctic clouds are limited. An airborne study, carried out during July 2014 from Resolute Bay, Nunavut, Canada, as part of the Canadian NETCARE project, provides a comprehensive in situ look into some effects of aerosol particles on liquid clouds in the clean environment of the Arctic summer. Median cloud droplet number concentrations (CDNC from 62 cloud samples are 10 cm−3 for low-altitude cloud (clouds topped below 200 m and 101 cm−3 for higher-altitude cloud (clouds based above 200 m. The lower activation size of aerosol particles is  ≤  50nm diameter in about 40 % of the cases. Particles as small as 20 nm activated in the higher-altitude clouds consistent with higher supersaturations (S for those clouds inferred from comparison of the CDNC with cloud condensation nucleus (CCN measurements. Over 60 % of the low-altitude cloud samples fall into the CCN-limited regime of Mauritsen et al. (2011, within which increases in CDNC may increase liquid water and warm the surface. These first observations of that CCN-limited regime indicate a positive association of the liquid water content (LWC and CDNC, but no association of either the CDNC or LWC with aerosol variations. Above the Mauritsen limit, where aerosol indirect cooling may result, changes in particles with diameters from 20 to 100 nm exert a relatively strong influence on the CDNC. Within this exceedingly clean environment, as defined by low carbon monoxide and low concentrations of larger particles, the background CDNC are estimated to range between 16 and 160 cm−3, where higher values are due to activation of particles  ≤  50nm that likely derive from natural sources. These observations offer the first wide-ranging reference for the aerosol cloud albedo effect in the summertime Arctic.

  19. Effect of annealing on particle size, microstructure and gas sensing properties of Mn substituted CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kumar, E. Ranjith, E-mail: ranjueaswar@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Dr. NGP Institute of Technology, Coimbatore 641048, Tamil Nadu (India); Kamzin, A.S. [Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 194021 (Russian Federation); Janani, K. [Department of Physics, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (India)

    2016-11-01

    Microstructure, morphological and gas sensor studies of Mn substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles synthesized by a simple evaporation method and auto- combustion method. The influence of heat treatment on phase and particle size of spinel ferrite nanoparticles were determined by X-ray diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy. The XRD study reveals that the lattice constant and crystallite size of the samples increases with the increase of annealing temperature. Last one was confirmed by Mossbauer data. The lowest size of particles of MnCoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (~3 nm) is obtained by auto combustion method. The spherical shaped nanoparticles are recorded by TEM. Furthermore, conductance response of Mn–Co ferrite nanomaterial was measured by exposing the material to reducing gas like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) which showed a sensor response of ~0.19 at an optimum operating temperature of 250 °C. - Highlights: • ~3 nm sized particles were prepared by auto combustion method. • Mossbauer study was analyzed for different annealed samples. • The size of the particles increased with increasing annealing temperature.

  20. Microwave properties of sphere-, flake-, and disc-shaped BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} nanoparticle inks for high-frequency applications on printed electronics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Myllymäki, S. [Microelectronics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu 90014 (Finland); Maček Kržmanc, M. [Josef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana (Slovenia); Sloma, M. [Institute of Electronic Materials Technology (ITME) Department of Silicon Technology, 133 Wolczynska Street, 01-919 Warsaw (Poland); Juuti, J.; Nelo, M.; Teirikangas, M. [Microelectronics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu 90014 (Finland); Jakubowska, M. [Institute of Electronic Materials Technology (ITME) Department of Silicon Technology, 133 Wolczynska Street, 01-919 Warsaw (Poland); Suvorov, D. [Josef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana (Slovenia); Jantunen, H. [Microelectronics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu 90014 (Finland)

    2016-12-01

    Spherical (diameter 50–200 nm), flake- (diameter 40–200 nm), and disc-shaped (diameter 10–20 nm) BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} nanoparticles were synthesized with a wet chemical method, and their permittivity, electric loss tangent, permeability, and magnetic loss tangent were measured in the 0.045–10 GHz range. The materials were prepared using a solution of 12% PMMA resin in a butyldiglycol solvent for 10–50 wt% filling content. Microstrip transmission-line perturbation was used to measure complex permeability and the split post dielectric resonator method was employed to measure dielectric properties. The frequency dependence of the permeability and permittivity spectra of the composites was affected by their shape and filling fraction. The composites made with spherical particles had higher permeability values (1.4–1.75) at 1 GHz than the composites made with flake (1.25–1.6) or disc particles (1.1–1.3), but the spherical particles caused more losses. The flake particle composite provided permeability and magnetic loss characteristics at both 1 GHz and 7 GHz superior to those of the sphere particle composite in low-loss RF applications. The magnetic loss tangent of PMMA/BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} was 0.2–0.3 at 1 GHz, being lower than that of state-of-the-art PANI/BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} composites. The sphere composite inks showed permeability values less than 1 at 1–4 GHz ferromagnetic resonance (FMR); they could be used as a tunable material in microwave applications. The sphere and flake composite inks also had sufficient printing quality for the screen-printing fabrication method.

  1. Low temperature study of micrometric powder of melted Fe{sub 50}Mn{sub 10}Al{sub 40} alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zamora, Ligia E. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360 Cali (Colombia); Perez Alcazar, G.A., E-mail: gpgeperez@gmail.com [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360 Cali (Colombia); Tabares, J.A. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad del Valle, A. A. 25360 Cali (Colombia); Romero, J.J. [Instituto de Ceramica y Vidrio, CSIC, C/Kelsen 5, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Martinez, A. [Instituto de Magnetismo Aplicado, P.O. Box 155, Las Rozas, 28230 Madrid (Spain); Gonzalez, J.M. [Unidad Asociada ICMM-IMA, c/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz 3, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Palomares, F.J. [Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid, CSIC, C/Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz, 28049 Cantoblanco, Madrid (Spain); Marco, J.F. [Instituto de Quimica-Fisica Rocasolano, CSIC, c/Serrano 119, 28006 Madrid (Spain)

    2012-06-15

    Melted Fe{sub 50}Mn{sub 10}Al{sub 40} alloy powder with particle size less than 40 {mu}m was characterized at room temperature by XRD, SEM and XPS; and at low temperatures by Moessbauer spectrometry, ac susceptibility, and magnetization analysis. The results show that the sample is BCC ferromagnetic but with a big contribution of paramagnetic sites, and presents super-paramagnetic and re-entrant spin-glass phases with critical temperatures of 265 and 35 K, respectively. The presence of the different phases detected is due to the disordered character of the sample and the competitive magnetic interactions. The obtained values of the saturation magnetization and the coercive field as a function of temperature present a behavior which indicates a ferromagnetic phase. However, the behavior of the FC curve and that of the coercive field as a function of temperature suggest that the dipolar magnetic interaction between particles contributes to the internal magnetic field in the same way as was reported for nanoparticulate powders.

  2. Response of cloud condensation nuclei (>50 nm) to changes in ion-nucleation

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Svensmark, Henrik; Enghoff, Martin Andreas Bødker; Pedersen, Jens Olaf Pepke

    2013-01-01

    In experiments where ultraviolet light produces aerosols from trace amounts of ozone, sulfur dioxide, and water vapor, the relative increase in aerosols produced by ionization by gamma sources is constant from nucleation to diameters larger than 50 nm, appropriate for cloud condensation nuclei....... This result contradicts both ion-free control experiments and also theoretical models that predict a decline in the response at larger particle sizes. This unpredicted experimental finding points to a process not included in current theoretical models, possibly an ion-induced formation of sulfuric acid...

  3. Sub-50 nm metrology on extreme ultra violet chemically amplified resist—A systematic assessment

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Maas, D. J.; Herfst, R.; Veldhoven, E. van; Fliervoet, T.; Meessen, J.; Vaenkatesan, V.; Sadeghian, H.

    2015-01-01

    With lithographic patterning dimensions decreasing well below 50 nm, it is of high importance to understand metrology at such small scales. This paper presents results obtained from dense arrays of contact holes (CHs) with various Critical Dimension (CD) between 15 and 50 nm, as patterned in a chemically amplified resist using an ASML EUV scanner and measured at ASML and TNO. To determine the differences between various (local) CD metrology techniques, we conducted an experiment using optical scatterometry, CD-Scanning Electron Microscopy (CD-SEM), Helium ion Microscopy (HIM), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). CD-SEM requires advanced beam scan strategies to mitigate sample charging; the other tools did not need that. We discuss the observed main similarities and differences between the various techniques. To this end, we assessed the spatial frequency content in the raw images for SEM, HIM, and AFM. HIM and AFM resolve the highest spatial frequencies, which are attributed to the more localized probe-sample interaction for these techniques. Furthermore, the SEM, HIM, and AFM waveforms are analyzed in detail. All techniques show good mutual correlation, albeit the reported CD values systematically differ significantly. HIM systematically reports a 25% higher CD uniformity number than CD-SEM for the same arrays of CHs, probably because HIM has a higher resolution than the CD-SEM used in this assessment. A significant speed boost for HIM and AFM is required before these techniques are to serve the demanding industrial metrology applications like optical critical dimension and CD-SEM do nowadays

  4. Preparation of ultrafine iron particles by chemical vapor deposition of Fe(CO) sub 5. Fe(CO) sub 5 wo gebryo to suru kiso kagaku hanno ni yoru tetsuchobiryushi no seisei

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sawada, Y; Kageyama, Y. (Mitsubishi Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)): Iwata, M. (Nagoya University, Nagoya (Japan). Faculty of Engineering)

    1991-11-10

    An ultrafine iron particle preparing process was developed, which wses gaseous phase pyrolysis in magnetic field of iron pentacarbonyl, Fe(CO){sub 5}, based on the fact that Fe(CO){sub 5} has peculiar characters that its boiling point is as low as 103{degree}C, and starts decomposing in a low temperature zone of 100{degree}C or lower. Vaporizing and introducing into a reactor an fe(CO){sub 5}, andPyrolyzing it at 200-600{degree}C while being diluted with nitrogen and applied with a magnetic field produced uitrafine iron particles of a necklace-like chain comprisinh primary particles having diameter of 15 to 25 nm with 10 to 40 of them linked in a straight chain. It was found that the specific surface area is 30-50 m{sup 2}/g, with the diameter converted from the specific surface area being relatively close to the average diameter obtained from TEM photograph, and that the particle has few pores. Magnetically the iron powder has a coercivity of 123-131 KA/m and a specific saturation magnetization of 120-140 Am{sup 2}/kg, and is expected to be applied as a high density magnetic recording medium. 5 refs.,8 figs., 3 tabs.

  5. Tapping mode SPM local oxidation nanolithography with sub-10 nm resolution

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nishimura, S; Ogino, T; Shirakashi, J; Takemura, Y

    2008-01-01

    Tapping mode SPM local oxidation nanolithography with sub-10 nm resolution is investigated by optimizing the applied bias voltage (V), scanning speed (S) and the oscillation amplitude of the cantilever (A). We fabricated Si oxide wires with an average width of 9.8 nm (V = 17.5 V, S 250 nm/s, A = 292 nm). In SPM local oxidation with tapping mode operation, it is possible to decrease the size of the water meniscus by enhancing the oscillation amplitude of cantilever. Hence, it seems that the water meniscus with sub-10 nm dimensions could be formed by precisely optimizing the oxidation conditions. Moreover, we quantitatively explain the size (width and height) of Si oxide wires with a model based on the oxidation ratio, which is defined as the oxidation time divided by the period of the cantilever oscillation. The model allows us to understand the mechanism of local oxidation in tapping mode operation with amplitude modulation. The results imply that the sub-10 nm resolution could be achieved using tapping mode SPM local oxidation technique with the optimization of the cantilever dynamics

  6. Effect of In substitution on structural, dielectric and magnetic properties of CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Manikandan, V., E-mail: manikandan570@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 13 (India); Vanitha, A. [Department of Physics, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 13 (India); Ranjith Kumar, E., E-mail: ranjueaswar@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Dr. NGP Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 48 (India); Chandrasekaran, J. [Department of Physics, Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 20 (India)

    2017-06-15

    Highlights: • Peak shift is due to smaller ionic radius of Cu than In element. • Particle size is increased and also lattice constant increased and then decreased with respect to sintering temperature. • The average particle size is estimated in the range of 30–50 nm. - Abstract: Cu ferrite and In substituted Cu ferrite has been successfully synthesized (In{sub x}Cu{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}; x = 0.0, 0.2) at pH 11 and sintered at 300 °C, 600 °C, 900 °C. From the XRD analysis, the ferrite phase is confirmed and particle size varied from 28 to 37 nm owing to sintering temperature. TEM microstructure confirms that samples having polycrystalline nature because of superimposition of bright spots. FT-IR spectra exhibit general behaviour of ferrite. The significant change of dielectric constant has been noticed from dielectric measurement while substitution of In element. The room temperature magnetic measurements demonstrate a solid impact of sintering temperature and In substitution on saturation magnetization and coercivity.

  7. Radon decay products and 10–1100 nm aerosol particles in Postojna Cave

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Bezek

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available At the lowest point along the tourist route in Postojna Cave, the activity concentration of radon (222Rn decay products and the number concentration and size distribution of aerosol particles in the size range of 10–1100 nm were monitored, with the focus on the unattached fraction (fun of radon decay products (RnDPs, a key parameter in radon dosimetry. The total number concentration of aerosols during visits in summer was lower (700 cm−3 than in winter (2800 cm−3, and was dominated by 50 nm particles (related to the attached RnDPs in winter. This explains the higher fun values in summer (0.75 and the lower winter measurement (0.04 and, consequently, DCFD values of 43.6 and 13.1 mSv WLM−1 respectively for the calculated dose conversion factors. The difference is caused by an enhanced inflow of fresh outside air, driven in winter by the higher air temperature in the cave compared to outside, resulting in the introduction of outside aerosol particles into the cave.

  8. Size distributions of non-volatile particle residuals (Dp<800 nm at a rural site in Germany and relation to air mass origin

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    T. Tuch

    2007-11-01

    Full Text Available Atmospheric aerosol particle size distributions at a continental background site in Eastern Germany were examined for a one-year period. Particles were classified using a twin differential mobility particle sizer in a size range between 3 and 800 nm. As a novelty, every second measurement of this experiment involved the removal of volatile chemical compounds in a thermodenuder at 300°C. This concept allowed to quantify the number size distribution of non-volatile particle cores – primarily associated with elemental carbon, and to compare this to the original non-conditioned size distribution. As a byproduct of the volatility analysis, new particles originating from nucleation inside the thermodenuder can be observed, however, overwhelmingly at diameters below 6 nm. Within the measurement uncertainty, every particle down to particle sizes of 15 nm is concluded to contain a non-volatile core. The volume fraction of non-volatile particulate matter (non-conditioned diameter < 800 nm varied between 10 and 30% and was largely consistent with the experimentally determined mass fraction of elemental carbon. The average size of the non-volatile particle cores was estimated as a function of original non-conditioned size using a summation method, which showed that larger particles (>200 nm contained more non-volatile compounds than smaller particles (<50 nm, thus indicating a significantly different chemical composition. Two alternative air mass classification schemes based on either, synoptic chart analysis (Berliner Wetterkarte or back trajectories showed that the volume and number fraction of non-volatile cores depended less on air mass than the total particle number concentration. In all air masses, the non-volatile size distributions showed a more and a less volatile ("soot" mode, the latter being located at about 50 nm. During unstable conditions and in maritime air masses, smaller values were observed compared to stable or continental conditions

  9. Advanced Characterization: 3D chemistry and structure at sub-nm resolution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kotula, Paul Gabriel [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Rye, Michael J. [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)

    2014-10-01

    This work has started the process of extending nanometer-scale comprehensive microanalysis to the 3rd dimension by combining full x-ray spectral imaging with previously developed computed tomography techniques whereby we acquire a series of spectral images for a large number of projections of the same specimen in the transmission electron microscope and then analyze the composite computed tomographic spectral image data prior to application of existing tomographic reconstruction software. We have demonstrated a needle-shaped specimen geometry (shape/size and preparation method) by focused ion beam preparation and acquisition and analysis of a complete tomographic spectral image on a test material consisting of fine-grained Ni with sub-10 nm alumina particles.

  10. Reduction under hydrogen of ferrite MFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (M: Fe, Co, Ni) nanoparticles obtained by hydrolysis in polyol medium: A novel route to elaborate CoFe{sub 2}, Fe and Ni{sub 3}Fe nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ballot, N.; Schoenstein, F.; Mercone, S.; Chauveau, T.; Brinza, O. [Laboratoire des Sciences des Procedes et des Materiaux, CNRS, LSPM - UPR 3407, Universite Paris 13, PRES Sorbonne-Paris-Cite, 99 Avenue J.-B. Clement, 93430 Villetaneuse (France); Jouini, N., E-mail: jouini@univ-paris13.fr [Laboratoire des Sciences des Procedes et des Materiaux, CNRS, LSPM - UPR 3407, Universite Paris 13, PRES Sorbonne-Paris-Cite, 99 Avenue J.-B. Clement, 93430 Villetaneuse (France)

    2012-09-25

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Spinels nano-particles MFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (M: Co, Fe or Ni) are obtained by hydrolysis in polyol medium. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Gentle reduction under hydrogen flow of spinel nano-particles yields metal and alloy nanoparticles. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer TEM and X-ray analysis show that CoFe{sub 2}, Fe and Ni{sub 3}Fe nano-particles are monocrystalline particles with size less than 160 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Iron with size of 150 nm presents ferromagnetic behavior. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer CoFe{sub 2} alloy with size of 55 nm could be considered as a superparamagnetic material. - Abstract: A novel method to process metal and various alloy particles of nanometric size is described. The first step consists in the elaboration of MFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (M: Fe, Ni or Co) spinel nanoparticles in polyol medium via hydrolysis and the second one in gently reducing these latter under hydrogen at 300 Degree-Sign C. X-ray diffraction analysis shows that pure Fe and CoFe{sub 2} alloy are well obtained by reducing Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} and CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}, respectively. This is not the case when we try to reduce NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. A mixture of Fe and Ni{sub 3}Fe is observed. TEM analysis reveals that the size of metal particles stays within the range of a few tenths of nm up to 150 nm, while the precursors (MFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) never exceed 5 nm. Our results show that the formation of metal particles occurs via two main steps: (i) reduction of the spinel oxide nanoparticles into metal ones and (ii) aggregation of the latter, leading to larger metal nanoparticles. Magnetic measurements indicate that the as-obtained metallic materials have good magnetic properties mainly affected by the sizes of the nanoparticles and the purity of the reduced phases.

  11. Nano ZrO{sub 2} particles in nanocrystalline Fe–14Cr–1.5Zr alloy powders

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xu, W.Z.; Li, L.L.; Saber, M.; Koch, C.C.; Zhu, Y.T., E-mail: ytzhu@ncsu.edu; Scattergood, R.O.

    2014-09-15

    Here we report on the formation of nano ZrO{sub 2} particles in Fe–14Cr–1.5Zr alloy powders synthesized by mechanical alloying. The nano ZrO{sub 2} particles were found uniformly dispersed in the ferritic matrix powders with an average size of about 3.7 nm, which rendered the alloy powders so stable that it retained nanocrystalline structure after annealing at 900 °C for 1 h. The ZrO{sub 2} nanoparticles have a tetragonal crystal structure and the following orientation relationship with the matrix: (0 0 2){sub ZrO2}//(0 0 2){sub Matrix} and [0 1 0]{sub ZrO2}//[1 2 0]{sub Matrix}. The size and dispersion of the ZrO{sub 2} particles are comparable to those of Y–Ti–O enriched oxides reported in irradiation-resistant ODS alloys. This suggests a potential application of the new alloy powders for nuclear energy applications.

  12. Synthesis of MSnO{sub 3} (M = Ba, Sr) nanoparticles by reverse micelle method and particle size distribution analysis by whole powder pattern modeling

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ahmed, Jahangeer; Blakely, Colin K.; Bruno, Shaun R. [Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 (United States); Poltavets, Viktor V., E-mail: poltavets@chemistry.msu.edu [Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 (United States)

    2012-09-15

    Highlights: ► BaSnO{sub 3} and SrSnO{sub 3} nanoparticles synthesized using the reverse micelle method. ► Particle size and size distribution studied by whole powder pattern modeling. ► Nanoparticles are of optimal size for investigation in dye-sensitized solar cells. -- Abstract: Light-to-electricity conversion efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells critically depends not only on the dye molecule, semiconducting material and redox shuttle selection but also on the particle size and particle size distribution of the semiconducting photoanode. In this study, nanocrystalline BaSnO{sub 3} and SrSnO{sub 3} particles have been synthesized using the microemulsion method. Particle size distribution was studied by whole powder pattern modeling which confirmed narrow particle size distribution with an average size of 18.4 ± 8.3 nm for SrSnO{sub 3} and 15.8 ± 4.2 nm for BaSnO{sub 3}. These values are in close agreement with results of transmission electron microscopy. The prepared materials have optimal microstructure for successive investigation in dye-sensitized solar cells.

  13. Toward Rapid Unattended X-ray Tomography of Large Planar Samples at 50-nm Resolution

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Rudati, J.; Tkachuk, A.; Gelb, J.; Hsu, G.; Feng, Y.; Pastrick, R.; Lyon, A.; Trapp, D.; Beetz, T.; Chen, S.; Hornberger, B.; Seshadri, S.; Kamath, S.; Zeng, X.; Feser, M.; Yun, W.; Pianetta, P.; Andrews, J.; Brennan, S.; Chu, Y. S.

    2009-01-01

    X-ray tomography at sub-50 nm resolution of small areas (∼15 μmx15 μm) are routinely performed with both laboratory and synchrotron sources. Optics and detectors for laboratory systems have been optimized to approach the theoretical efficiency limit. Limited by the availability of relatively low-brightness laboratory X-ray sources, exposure times for 3-D data sets at 50 nm resolution are still many hours up to a full day. However, for bright synchrotron sources, the use of these optimized imaging systems results in extremely short exposure times, approaching live-camera speeds at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago in the US These speeds make it possible to acquire a full tomographic dataset at 50 nm resolution in less than a minute of true X-ray exposure time. However, limits in the control and positioning system lead to large overhead that results in typical exposure times of ∼15 min currently.We present our work on the reduction and elimination of system overhead and toward complete automation of the data acquisition process. The enhancements underway are primarily to boost the scanning rate, sample positioning speed, and illumination homogeneity to performance levels necessary for unattended tomography of large areas (many mm 2 in size). We present first results on this ongoing project.

  14. Dielectric properties of Zr doped CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} synthesized by sol-gel route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jesurani, S. [Department of Physics, Jeyaraj Annapackium College for Women, Periyakulam 625 601, Tamil Nadu (India); Center for Material Science and Nano Devices, Department of Physics, SRM University, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu (India); Kanagesan, S., E-mail: kanagu1980@gmail.com [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor (Malaysia); Hashim, M. [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor (Malaysia); Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor (Malaysia); Ismail, I. [Materials Synthesis and Characterization Laboratory (MSCL), Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor (Malaysia)

    2013-02-25

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Zr doped CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} samples have been synthesized using sol-gel process. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The particle size of the powder ranges from 47 to 85 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Less sintering at 1040 Degree-Sign C results in high density and high dielectric constant. - Abstract: Zr substituted CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4-x}Zr{sub x}O{sub 12} (CCTZO) with x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.10, 0.20 and 0.50 mol% were prepared by sol-gel route from the metal nitrate solutions, Titanium isoproxide, and zirconium oxy chloride. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of a single phase material in the samples calcinated at 800 Degree-Sign C for 3 h. The crystal structure did not change on doping with zirconium and it remained cubic in all the four studied compositions. The permittivity and dielectric loss of 0.1 mol% Zr doped CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} were improved for K Almost-Equal-To 6020 and tan {delta} Almost-Equal-To 0.52 at 1 kHz after the sample had been sintered at 1040 Degree-Sign C for 4 h. AFM studies showed that the particle size of the CCTZO powder ranged from 47 to 85 nm. FE-SEM micrographs of the CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4-x}Zr{sub x}O{sub 12} samples showed that the grain size was in the range of 250 nm to 5 {mu}m for these samples. EDX studies showed the presence of calcium, copper, titanium, oxygen and zirconium. Remarkably, the dielectric constant increased and dielectric loss had lower values compared to the undoped CCTO.

  15. 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.

  16. Electron microscopy characterization of mechanically alloyed and hot consolidates Cu-Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub> particles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    López, M.

    2005-08-01

    Full Text Available Mechanically alloyed copper-ceramic composites have been obtained with the purpose of studying their use as copper-based material for electrical equipment. For high-temperature applications, dispersion-strengthened copper alloys are attractive due to their excellent combination of thermal and electrical conductivity, mechanical strength retention and microstructural stability. In this work, powder mixtures of pure copper with 2 vol % Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub>, milled during 4, 6, 10, 12 and 15 h in a high-energy planetary balls mill under argon atmosphere, were consolidated by hot isostatic pressing, applying a pressure of 100 MPa at 1073 K for two hours, to obtain materials with a fine microstructure. The Cu-Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub> alloys were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM, electron microprobe (EPMA and transmission electron microscopy (TEM. Mechanical properties and electrical conductivity were also studied. The average tensile strength and electrical conductivity were found to be 500 MPa and 50 % IACS, respectively. The Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub> ceramics show good stability during hot consolidation. Contributing to a further strengthening of the alloy during the hot consolidation, uniformly-distributed Fe-carbide particles of nanometric size precipitated in the copper matrix. Fe-Cr oxycarbides formed in the interphase between Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub> particles and the copper matrix cause the low ductility of Cu-Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub> alloys. Said particles are attributed to impurities/contamination generated from the milling process.

    Se obtuvieron aleaciones compuestas de Cu-Cr<sub>3sub>C>2sub>, aleadas mecánicamente, para estudiar futuras aplicaciones en componentes eléctricos. A altas temperaturas, las aleaciones de base cobre reforzadas por dispersión, son atractivas por su excelente conductividad térmica y eléctrica, propiedades mecánicas y estabilidad microstructural. En este estudio

  17. A Statistical Analysis of Laser Ablated Ba(Sub 0.50)Sr(Sub 0.50)TiO(Sub 3)/LaAlO(Sub 3) Films for Microwave Applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Romanofsky, R. R.; Varaljay, N. C.; Alterovitz, S. A.; Miranda, F. A.; Mueller, C. M.; VanKeuls, F. W.; Kim, J.; Harshavardhan, K. S.

    2002-01-01

    The NASA Glenn Research Center is constructing a 616 element scanning phased array antenna using thin film Ba(sub x)Sr(sub 1-x)TiO(sub 3) based phase shifters. A critical milestone is the production of 616 identical phase shifters at 19 GHz with [asymptotically equal to]4 dB insertion loss and at least 337.5 deg phase shift with 3 percent bandwidth. It is well known that there is a direct relationship between dielectric tuning and loss due to the Kramers-Kronig relationship and that film crystallinity and strain, affected by the substrate template, play an important role. Ba(sub 0.50)Sr(sub 0.50)TiO (sub 3) films, nominally 400 nm thick, were deposited on 48 0.25 mm thick, 5 cm diameter LaAlO(sub 3) wafers. Although previous results suggested that Mn-doped films on MgO were intrinsically superior in terms of phase shift per unit loss, for this application phase shift per unit length was more important. The composition was selected as a compromise between tuning and loss for room temperature operation (e.g. crystallinity progressively degrades for Ba concentrations in excess of 30 percent). As a prelude to fabricating the array, it was necessary to process, screen, and inventory a large number of samples. Variable angle ellipsometry was used to characterize refractive index and film thickness across each wafer. Microstructural properties of the thin films were characterized using high resolution X-ray diffractometry. Finally, prototype phase shifters and resonators were patterned on each wafer and RE probed to measure tuning as a function of dc bias voltage as well as peak (0 field) permittivity and unloaded Q. The relationship among film quality and uniformity and performance is analyzed. This work presents the first statistically relevant study of film quality and microwave performance and represents a milestone towards commercialization of thin ferroelectric films for microwave applications.

  18. Enhanced dielectric properties of thin Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} films grown on 65 nm SiO{sub 2}/Si

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kolkovsky, Vl.; Kurth, E.; Kunath, C. [IPMS Fraunhofer, Dresden, Maria-Reiche Str. 2, 01109 Dresden (Germany)

    2016-12-15

    The structural and electrical properties of Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5}/65 nm SiO{sub 2} structures with different thicknesses of Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} varying in the range of 0-260 nm are investigated. We find that the stack structures grown by the magnetron sputtering technique and annealed at 1220 K in O and Ar atmosphere show one of the highest dielectric constant of Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5}(about 64) among those previously reported in the literature. The structure of the annealed polycrystalline Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} films is orthorhombic, as obtained from X-ray diffraction measurements and we do not observe any preferential orientation of the annealed films. The Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} films contain positively charged defects which become mobile at around 400 K and they are tentatively correlated with the oxygen vacancies. The leakage current in the stack structures is a factor of 20 higher compared to that in thin layers with 65 nm SiO{sub 2}. The conduction mechanism in the stack structures can be described by the Fowler-Nordheim model with a barrier height that decreases slightly (<10%) as a function of the thickness of the films. (copyright 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  19. Lattice strain estimation for CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano particles using Williamson-Hall analysis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aly, Kamal A., E-mail: kamalaly2001@gmail.com [Physics Department, Faculty of Science & Arts, Khulais, University of Jeddah, Jiddah (Saudi Arabia); Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut (Egypt); Khalil, N.M. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science & Arts, Khulais, University of Jeddah, Jiddah (Saudi Arabia); Refractories, Ceramics and Building Materials Department, National Research Centre, 12311 Cairo (Egypt); Algamal, Yousif [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science & Arts, Khulais, University of Jeddah, Jiddah (Saudi Arabia); Saleem, Qaid M.A. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science & Arts, Khulais, University of Jeddah, Jiddah (Saudi Arabia); Chemistry Department, Faculty of Education, Aden University, Sabwa (Yemen)

    2016-08-15

    CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were prepared via coprecipitation technique through mixing 1:1 M ratio of cobalt nitrate and aluminium nitrate solutions at pH 10. CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} crystalline phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) result reveals that the particles of CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} fired at 900 °C were relatively small (21 nm) and uniform. Increased temperature to 1200 °C gives rise to blocky particles and changes in the powders shape, that because of agglomeration came from the calcination of CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}. Furthermore, the particle size increase with increasing the calcinated temperature. The crystalline sizes were evaluated by using X-ray peak broadening analysis suggested by Williamson-Hall (W-H) analysis. It was successfully applied for lattice strain and to calculate mechanical stress and energy density values using different three models namely uniform deformation model (UDM), uniform deformation stress model (UDSM) and uniform deformation energy density model (UDEDM). Also, the root mean square strain was determined. These models gave a different strain values which suggested an isotropic nature of the nanoparticles. Besides, the obtained results W-H analysis are in good agreement with that deduced from SEM analysis and Scherrer's formula. - Highlights: • CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were prepared via coprecipitation technique. • CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were characterized by SEM and XRD. • the lattice size and strain were investigated according to W-H analysis. • The latic size were investigated by W-H analysis, SEM and Sherrar's method. • The root mean square strain was determined.

  20. Co{sub 100−x}Fe{sub x} magnetic thick films prepared by electrodeposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aguirre, M. del C., E-mail: carmenaguirre@famaf.unc.edu.ar [Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola-Conicet-Facultad de Matemática, Astronomía y Física, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, 5000 Córdoba (Argentina); Farías, E. [Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, 5000 Córdoba (Argentina); Abraham, J.; Urreta, S.E. [Facultad de Matemática, Astronomía y Física, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, 5000 Córdoba (Argentina)

    2015-04-05

    morphology, Co and Co-rich layers are compact, with large (100–300 nm) agglomerates of quite equiaxed, densely packed particles (average 50 nm); as the iron content increases above 15 at.%, faceted particles 100 nm in size are observed. All the electrodeposited layers are soft ferromagnetic at room temperature, with an in plane easy axis; coercive fields/forces between 10 mT and 71 mT are measured at 300 K.

  1. Sub-30 nm patterning of molecular resists based on crosslinking through tip based oxidation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lorenzoni, Matteo; Wagner, Daniel; Neuber, Christian; Schmidt, Hans-Werner; Perez-Murano, Francesc

    2018-06-01

    Oxidation Scanning Probe Lithography (o-SPL) is an established method employed for device patterning at the nanometer scale. It represents a feasible and inexpensive alternative to standard lithographic techniques such as electron beam lithography (EBL) and nanoimprint lithography (NIL). In this work we applied non-contact o-SPL to an engineered class of molecular resists in order to obtain crosslinking by electrochemical driven oxidation. By patterning and developing various resist formulas we were able to obtain a reliable negative tone resist behavior based on local oxidation. Under optimal conditions, directly written patterns can routinely reach sub-30 nm lateral resolution, while the final developed features result wider, approaching 50 nm width.

  2. Water uptake by biomass burning aerosol at sub- and supersaturated conditions: closure studies and implications for the role of organics

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    U. Dusek

    2011-09-01

    Full Text Available We investigate the CCN activity of freshly emitted biomass burning particles and their hygroscopic growth at a relative humidity (RH of 85%. The particles were produced in the Mainz combustion laboratory by controlled burning of various wood types. The water uptake at sub- and supersaturations is parameterized by the hygroscopicity parameter, κ (c.f. Petters and Kreidenweis, 2007. For the wood burns, κ is low, generally around 0.06. The main emphasis of this study is a comparison of κ derived from measurements at sub- and supersaturated conditions (κ<sub>G> and κ<sub>CCN>, in order to see whether the water uptake at 85% RH can predict the CCN properties of the biomass burning particles. Differences in κ<sub>G>and κ<sub>CCN> can arise through solution non-idealities, the presence of slightly soluble or surface active compounds, or non-spherical particle shape. We find that κ<sub>G> and κ<sub>CCN> agree within experimental uncertainties (of around 30% for particle sizes of 100 and 150 nm; only for 50 nm particles is κ<sub>CCN> larger than κ<sub>G> by a factor of 2. The magnitude of this difference and its dependence on particle size is consistent with the presence of surface active organic compounds. These compounds mainly facilitate the CCN activation of small particles, which form the most concentrated solution droplets at the point of activation. The 50 nm particles, however, are only activated at supersaturations higher than 1% and are therefore of minor importance as CCN in ambient clouds. By comparison with the actual chemical composition of the biomass burning particles, we estimate that the hygroscopicity of the water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC fraction can be represented by a κ<sub>WSOC> value of approximately 0.2. The effective hygroscopicity of a typical wood burning particle can therefore be represented by a linear mixture of an inorganic component with κ ≅ 0.6, a WSOC

  3. Statistical analysis and parameterization of the hygroscopic growth of the sub-micrometer urban background aerosol in Beijing

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Yu; Wu, Zhijun; Ma, Nan; Wu, Yusheng; Zeng, Limin; Zhao, Chunsheng; Wiedensohler, Alfred

    2018-02-01

    The take-up of water of aerosol particles plays an important role in heavy haze formation over North China Plain, since it is related with particle mass concentration, visibility degradation, and particle chemistry. In the present study, we investigated the size-resolved hygroscopic growth factor (HGF) of sub-micrometer aerosol particles (smaller than 350 nm) on a basis of 9-month Hygroscopicity-Tandem Differential Mobility Analyzer measurement in the urban background atmosphere of Beijing. The mean hygroscopicity parameter (κ) values derived from averaging over the entire sampling period for particles of 50 nm, 75 nm, 100 nm, 150 nm, 250 nm, and 350 nm in diameters were 0.14 ± 0.07, 0.17 ± 0.05, 0.18 ± 0.06, 0.20 ± 0.07, 0.21 ± 0.09, and 0.23 ± 0.12, respectively, indicating the dominance of organics in the sub-micrometer urban aerosols. In the spring, summer, and autumn, the number fraction of hydrophilic particles increased with increasing particle size, resulting in an increasing trend of overall particle hygroscopicity with enhanced particle size. Differently, the overall mean κ values peaked in the range of 75-150 nm and decreased for particles larger than 150 nm in diameter during wintertime. Such size-dependency of κ in winter was related to the strong primary particle emissions from coal combustion during domestic heating period. The number fraction of hydrophobic particles such as freshly emitted soot decreased with increasing PM2.5 mass concentration, indicating aged and internal mixed particles were dominant in the severe particulate matter pollution. Parameterization schemes of the HGF as a function of relative humidity (RH) and particle size between 50 and 350 nm were determined for different seasons and pollution levels. The HGFs calculated from the parameterizations agree well with the measured HGFs at 20-90% RH. The parameterizations can be applied to determine the hygroscopic growth of aerosol particles at ambient conditions for the area

  4. Practical Considerations for Detection and Characterization of Sub-Micron Particles in Protein Solutions by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gruia, Flaviu; Parupudi, Arun; Polozova, Alla

    2015-01-01

    Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) is an emerging analytical technique developed for detection, sizing, and counting of sub-micron particles in liquid media. Its feasibility for use in biopharmaceutical development was evaluated with particle standards and recombinant protein solutions. Measurements of aqueous suspensions of NIST-traceable polystyrene particle standards showed accurate particle concentration detection between 2 × 10(7) and 5 × 10(9) particles/mL. Sizing was accurate for particle standards up to 200 nm. Smaller than nominal value sizes were detected by NTA for the 300-900 nm particles. Measurements of protein solutions showed that NTA performance is solution-specific. Reduced sensitivity, especially in opalescent solutions, was observed. Measurements in such solutions may require sample dilution; however, common sample manipulations, such as dilution and filtration, may result in particle formation. Dilution and filtration case studies are presented to further illustrate such behavior. To benchmark general performance, NTA was compared against asymmetric flow field flow fractionation coupled with multi-angle light scattering (aF4-MALS) and dynamic light scattering, which are other techniques for sub-micron particles. Data shows that all three methods have limitations and may not work equally well under certain conditions. Nevertheless, the ability of NTA to directly detect and count sub-micron particles is a feature not matched by aF4-MALS or dynamic light scattering. Thorough characterization of particulate matter present in protein therapeutics is limited by the lack of analytical methods for particles in the sub-micron size range. Emerging techniques are being developed to bridge this analytical gap. In this study, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis is evaluated as a potential tool for biologics development. Our results indicate that method performance is molecule-specific and may not work as well under all solution conditions, especially when

  5. Influence of clay particles on Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles transport and retention through limestone porous media: measurements and mechanisms

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bayat, Ali Esfandyari, E-mail: ali.esfandiari.bayat@gmail.com; Junin, Radzuan [Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Department of Petroleum Engineering, Faculty of Petroleum and Renewable Energy Engineering (Malaysia); Mohsin, Rahmat [Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM-MPRC Institute for Oil and Gas, N29A, Lengkuk Suria (Malaysia); Hokmabadi, Mehrdad [Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Department of Petroleum Engineering, Faculty of Petroleum and Renewable Energy Engineering (Malaysia); Shamshirband, Shahaboddin [University of Malaya, Department of Computer System and Information Technology, Faculty of Computer System and Information Technology (Malaysia)

    2015-05-15

    Utilization of nanoparticles (NPs) for a broad range of applications has caused considerable quantities of these materials to be released into the environment. Issues of how and where the NPs are distributed into the subsurface aquatic environments are questions for those in environmental engineering. This study investigated the influence of three abundant clay minerals namely kaolinite, montmorillonite, and illite in the subsurface natural aquatic systems on the transport and retention of aluminum oxide (Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, 40 nm) and titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}, 10–30 nm) NPs through saturated limestone porous media. The clay concentrations in porous media were set at 2 and 4 vol% of the holder capacity. Breakthrough curves in the columns outlets were measured using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer. It was found that the maximum NPs recoveries were obtained when there was no clay particle in the porous medium. On the other hand, increase in concentration of clay particles has resulted in the NPs recoveries being significantly declined. Due to fibrous structure of illite, it was found to be more effective for NPs retention in comparison to montmorillonite and kaolinite. Overall, the position of clay particles in the porous media pores and their morphologies were found to be two main reasons for increase of NPs retention in porous media.

  6. Resolving three-dimensional shape of sub-50nm wide lines with nanometer-scale sensitivity using conventional optical microscopes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Attota, Ravikiran; Dixson, Ronald G.

    2014-01-01

    We experimentally demonstrate that the three-dimensional (3-D) shape variations of nanometer-scale objects can be resolved and measured with sub-nanometer scale sensitivity using conventional optical microscopes by analyzing 4-D optical data using the through-focus scanning optical microscopy (TSOM) method. These initial results show that TSOM-determined cross-sectional (3-D) shape differences of 30 nm–40 nm wide lines agree well with critical-dimension atomic force microscope measurements. The TSOM method showed a linewidth uncertainty of 1.22 nm (k = 2). Complex optical simulations are not needed for analysis using the TSOM method, making the process simple, economical, fast, and ideally suited for high volume nanomanufacturing process monitoring.

  7. Preparation, microstructure and magnetic properties of Sm(Co,Hf){sub 7}/Co nanocomposite particles by polyol method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bu, Shao-Jing; Duan, Xiu-Li; Han, Xu-Hao; Sun, Ji-Bing, E-mail: hbgdsjb@126.com; Chi, Xiang; Cui, Chun-Xiang

    2017-02-01

    Hard/soft Sm-Co/Co nanocomposite particles were prepared by reducing CoCl{sub 2}·6H{sub 2}O in the solution containing ball-milled Sm(Co, Hf){sub 7} particles by a simple polyol method with ethylene glycol as the solvent. Phase composition, microstructure and magnetic properties of the particles were analyzed by XRD, TEM (HRTEM) and VSM, respectively. It has been found that Sm-Co/Co core/shell structure is formed in which the Co shell is 3–5 nm in thickness and mainly exists in hcp-Co phase. At the same time, fcc-Co tends to nucleate and grow independently between Sm-Co particles. The formation mechanism of Sm-Co/Co composite particles is discussed and corresponding model is established. Sm-Co/Co composite particles perform obvious remanence enhancement effects especially after being heated at 450 °C for 15 min.

  8. Structural and magnetic properties of Mn{sub 50}Fe{sub 50−x}Sn{sub x} (x=10, 15 and 20) alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ghosh, Tanmoy [LCMP, S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata 700106 (India); Agarwal, Sandeep [Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia 721657 (India); Mukhopadhyay, P.K., E-mail: pkm@bose.res.in [LCMP, S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata 700106 (India)

    2016-11-15

    In this work we report measurements and comparisons of the structural, magnetic and transport properties of a series of Mn{sub 50}Fe{sub 50−x}Sn{sub x} alloys (x=10, 15 and 20). We found that while the lower Sn composition sample stabilized in β-Mn-type crystallographic phase, the higher Sn composition alloys contained both β-Mn-type as well as Mn{sub 3}Sn-type hexagonal DO{sub 19} phases. Through d.c. and a.c. magnetic property measurements we have established the existence of a ferromagnetic transition near room temperature followed by a spin reorientation at lower temperature in the Mn{sub 3}Sn-type crystallographic phase of the alloys. Our resistivity study also revealed an interesting behavior with negative temperature coefficient (TCR) in these alloys. - Highlights: • Mn{sub 50}Fe{sub 50-x}Sn{sub x} alloys were studied over a limited concentration range. • Lower Sn alloys behaved similar to ß-Mn alloys both structurally and magnetically. • Higher Sn alloys showed magnetic transitions similar to Mn{sub 3}Sn and Fe{sub 3}Sn. • Resistivity showed bad metallic behavior with negetive temperature coefficient.

  9. Ferromagnetic resonance study of Fe{sub 50}Ag{sub 50} granular film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sarmiento, G. [Dpto. Electricicidad y Electronica, Universidad del Pais Vasco (UPV/EHU), Apdo. 644, 48080 Bilbao (Spain)]. E-mail: websamug@lg.ehu.es; Fdez-Gubieda, M.L. [Dpto. Electricicidad y Electronica, Universidad del Pais Vasco (UPV/EHU), Apdo. 644, 48080 Bilbao (Spain); Siruguri, V. [Dpto. Electricicidad y Electronica, Universidad del Pais Vasco (UPV/EHU), Apdo. 644, 48080 Bilbao (Spain); UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, R-5 Shed, BARC Campus, Mumbai 400085 (India); Lezama, L. [Dpto. Quimica Inorganica (UPV/EHU), Apdo. 644, 48080, Bilbao (Spain); Orue, I. [Servicios Generales de Investigacion (SGIKER), Vicerrectorado de Investigacion (UPV/EHU) (Spain)

    2007-09-15

    Fe{sub 50}Ag{sub 50} granular film, produced by the pulsed laser deposition technique, has been studied using ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) at temperatures ranging from 4 to 300K. Three different resonance modes are well observed in the whole temperature range. We have also studied the angular evolution of the resonance peaks at three different temperatures T=150, 250, 300K. The thermal and the angular evolution of the three resonance fields has been interpreted on the basis of the existence of different magnetic coupling between the Fe nanoparticles and a weakly magnetized interface.

  10. Sub-10 nm colloidal lithography for circuit-integrated spin-photo-electronic devices

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Adrian Iovan

    2012-12-01

    Full Text Available Patterning of materials at sub-10 nm dimensions is at the forefront of nanotechnology and employs techniques of various complexity, efficiency, areal scale, and cost. Colloid-based patterning is known to be capable of producing individual sub-10 nm objects. However, ordered, large-area nano-arrays, fully integrated into photonic or electronic devices have remained a challenging task. In this work, we extend the practice of colloidal lithography to producing large-area sub-10 nm point-contact arrays and demonstrate their circuit integration into spin-photo-electronic devices. The reported nanofabrication method should have broad application areas in nanotechnology as it allows ballistic-injection devices, even for metallic materials with relatively short characteristic relaxation lengths.

  11. Exposure assessment and heart rate variability monitoring in workers handling titanium dioxide particles: a pilot study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ichihara, Sahoko [Mie University, Graduate School of Regional Innovation Studies (Japan); Li, Weihua [WHO Collaborating Centre for Research in Human Reproduction, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research (China); Omura, Seiichi [Tokyo Institute of Technology (Japan); Fujitani, Yuji [National Institute for Environmental Studies (Japan); Liu, Ying; Wang, Qiangyi [WHO Collaborating Centre for Research in Human Reproduction, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research (China); Hiraku, Yusuke [Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Environmental and Molecular Medicine (Japan); Hisanaga, Naomi [Aichi Gakusen University, Faculty of Human Science and Design (Japan); Wakai, Kenji [Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Preventive Medicine (Japan); Ding, Xuncheng [WHO Collaborating Centre for Research in Human Reproduction, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research (China); Kobayashi, Takahiro, E-mail: takakoba@airies.or.jp [Association for International Research Initiatives for Environmental Studies (Japan); Ichihara, Gaku, E-mail: gak@rs.tus.ac.jp [Tokyo University of Science, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Japan)

    2016-03-15

    Titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) particles are used for surface coating and in a variety of products such as inks, fibers, food, and cosmetics. The present study investigated possible respiratory and cardiovascular effects of TiO{sub 2} particles in workers exposed to this particle at high concentration in a factory in China. The diameter of particles collected on filters was measured by scanning electron microscopy. Real-time size-dependent particle number concentration was monitored in the nostrils of four workers using condensation particle counter and optical particle counter. Electrocardiogram was recorded using Holter monitors for the same four workers to record heart rate variability. Sixteen workers underwent assessment of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Mass-based individual exposure levels were also measured with personal cascade impactors. The primary particle diameter ranged from 46 to 562 nm. Analysis of covariance of the pooled data of the four workers showed that number of particles with a diameter <300 nm was associated positively with total number of N–N and negatively with total number of increase or decrease in successive RR intervals greater than 50 ms (RR50+/−) or percentage of RR 50+/− that were parameters of parasympathetic function. The total mass concentration was 9.58–30.8 mg/m{sup 3} during work, but significantly less before work (0.36 mg/m{sup 3}). The clear abnormality in respiratory function was not observed in sixteen workers who had worked for 10 months to 13 years in the factory. The study showed that exposure to particles with a diameter <300 nm might affect HRV in workers handling TiO{sub 2} particles. The results highlight the need to investigate the possible impact of exposure to nano-scaled particles on the autonomic nervous system.

  12. Particle size, spin wave and surface effects on magnetic properties of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aslibeiki, B., E-mail: b.aslibeiki@tabrizu.ac.ir [Department of Physics, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471 (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Varvaro, G.; Peddis, D. [Istituto di Struttura della Materia, National Research Council, Monterotondo Scalo, Roma 00015 (Italy); Kameli, P. [Department of Physics, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111 (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2017-01-15

    Magnesium ferrite, MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}, nanoparticles with a mean diameter varying from ∼6 to ∼17 nm were successfully synthesized using a simple thermal decomposition method at different annealing temperatures ranging in between 400 and 600 °C. Pure spinel ferrite nanoparticles were obtained at temperatures lower than 500 °C, while the presence of hematite (α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) impurities was observed at higher temperatures. Single-phase samples show a superparamagnetic behavior at 300 K, the saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) becoming larger with the increase of particles size. The temperature dependence of M{sub s} was explained in terms of surface spin-canting as well as spin wave excitations in the core. Using a modified Bloch law, [M{sub s}(T)=M{sub s}(0)(1−βT{sup α})], we observed a size dependent behavior of the Bloch constant β and the exponent α, whose values increase and decrease, respectively, as the particle size reduces. - Highlights: • MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were synthesized using a thermal decomposition method. • Pure ferrite nanoparticles were obtained at temperatures lower than 500 °C. • Samples show a superparamagnetic behavior at room temperatures. • Spin wave excitations were studied using a modified Bloch law.

  13. Preparation of nano-sized {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} from oil shale ash

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    An, Baichao; Wang, Wenying; Ji, Guijuan; Gan, Shucai; Gao, Guimei; Xu, Jijing; Li, Guanghuan [College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130026 (China)

    2010-01-15

    Oil shale ash (OSA), the residue of oil shale semi-coke roasting, was used as a raw material to synthesize nano-sized {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Ultrasonic oscillation pretreatment followed by azeotropic distillation was employed for reducing the particle size of {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The structural characterization at molecular and nanometer scales was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The interaction between alumina and n-butanol was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The results revealed that the crystalline phase of alumina nanoparticles was regular and the well dispersed alumina nanoparticles had a diameter of 50-80 nm. In addition, the significant factors including injection rate of carbon oxide (CO{sub 2}), ultrasonic oscillations, azeotropic distillation and surfactant were investigated with respect to their effects on the size of the alumina particles. (author)

  14. Highly dispersed spherical Bi{sub 3.25}La{sub 0.75}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 12} nanocrystals via topotactic crystallization of aggregation-free gel particles from an effective inverse miniemulsion sol–gel approach

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Aijun; Zeng, Yanwei, E-mail: zengyw-njut@126.com, E-mail: stephen-zeng@njtech.edu.cn, E-mail: stephen-zeng@163.com; Han, Longxiang; Ding, Chuan; Cao, Liangliang; Li, Rongjie [Nanjing Tech University, State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering (China)

    2015-09-15

    Aggregation-free spherical lanthanum-doped bismuth titanate (Bi{sub 3.25}La{sub 0.75}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 12}, BLT) gel particles with an average size of about 150 nm were successfully obtained from an inverse miniemulsion sol–gel process, with Span-80 acting as surfactant, n-butanol as co-surfactant, cyclohexane as continuous phase, and submicro-droplets of aqueous solution containing Bi{sup 3+}, La{sup 3+} and Ti{sup 4+} ions as dispersed phase, and then topotactically transformed into highly dispersed spherical BLT nanocrystals after an in situ crystallization at 600 °C for 8 h. It has been found that the BLT gel particles can be obtained via a moderate sol–gel reaction inside the miniemulsion droplets at 65 °C, but their morphology and aggregation degree are strongly affected by the relative amounts of Span-80 and n-butanol. The perfect spherical BLT gel particles with no aggregation can be achieved only under the condition of 3 wt% n-butanol relative to the mass of cyclohexane, with excessive amount of n-butanol leading to the formation of ill-gelled particles with irregular shapes, while insufficient addition of n-butanol resulting in terrible aggregation of gel particles. To understand the formation of aggregation-free spherical BLT gel particles, a tentative mechanism is proposed and discussed, which reveals that a well-coordinated oil–water interfacial film made up of Span-80 and n-butanol molecules and the appropriately enhanced evaporation of water from such interfaces should be responsible for the formation of aggregation-free spherical BLT gel particles. Graphical Abstract: Aggregation-free spherical BLT (Bi{sub 3.25}La{sub 0.75}Ti{sub 3}O{sub 12}) gel particles can be prepared from an effective inverse miniemulsion sol–gel process, and subsequently topotactically transformed into spherical BLT nanocrystals through an in situ crystallization.

  15. Preparation and characterization of Ba{sub 0.2}Sr{sub 0.2}La{sub 0.6}MnO{sub 3} nanoparticles and investigation of size & shape effect on microwave absorption

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Peymanfar, Reza; Javanshir, Shahrzad, E-mail: shjavan@iust.ac.ir

    2017-06-15

    Highlights: • Hydrothermal synthesis of Ba{sub 0.2}Sr{sub 0.2}La{sub 0.6}MnO{sub 3} performed in the presence of PMMA. • Shape and size-controlled synthesis of NPs over the range 15–50 Nm was explored. • Investigation of shape and size effect of NPs on microwave absorption properties. - Abstract: In this paper, the design and characterization of a radar absorbing material (RAM) was investigated at microwave frequency. Ba{sub 0.2}Sr{sub 0.2}La{sub 0.6}MnO{sub 3} magnetic nanoparticles was synthesized thru a facile hydrothermal method in the presence of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and the possibility of shape and size-controlled synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) over the range 15–50 Nm was also explored. Afterward, the effect of shape and size of the synthesized Ba{sub 0.2}Sr{sub 0.2}La{sub 0.6}MnO{sub 3} NPs on microwave absorption properties was investigated in KU-band. The crystal structures and morphology of as-synthesized nanoparticles were characterized and confirmed by FESEM, XRD, VSM, FTIR analysis. The RAM samples were prepared by dispersion of magnetic NPs in silicone rubber in an ultrasonic bath. The maximum reflection loss (RL) values NPs were 12.04 dB at 14.82 GHz and a broad absorption band (over 1.22 GHz) with RL values <−10 dB are obtained and the maximum reflection loss (RL) values of decrease and shaped NPs were 22.36 dB at 14.78 GHz and a broad absorption band (over 2.67 GHz) with RL values <−10 dB are obtained. The results indicated that the particle size and shape play a major role on the absorption properties of the composites in the 12.4–18 GHz frequency range. It is observed that microwave absorption properties increased with the decrease in average particle size of NPs.

  16. Investigation of the polyvinyl alcohol stabilization mechanism and adsorption properties on the surface of ternary mixed nanooxide AST 50 (Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}–SiO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2})

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wiśniewska, Małgorzata; Ostolska, Iwona, E-mail: i-ostolska@wp.pl; Szewczuk-Karpisz, Katarzyna; Chibowski, Stanisław [Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Department of Radiochemistry and Colloids Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry (Poland); Terpiłowski, Konrad [Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Department of Physical Chemistry – Interfacial Phenomena, Faculty of Chemistry (Poland); Gun’ko, Vladimir Moiseevich; Zarko, Vladimir Iljich [National Academy of Sciences in Ukraine, Institute of Surface Chemistry (Ukraine)

    2015-01-15

    A new adsorbent consisting of fumed, mixed alumina, silica, and titania in various proportions (AST 50) was investigated. The studied material was prepared by chemical vapor deposition method. The diameter of AST 50 primary particles was equal to about 51 nm which denotes that it can be classified as a nanomaterial. In the presented paper, the adsorption properties of polyvinyl alcohol on the ternary oxide were investigated. The polymer macromolecules were characterized by two different molecular weights and degree of hydrolysis. The polymer adsorption reaches the maximum at pH 3 and decreases with the solution pH rise. The reduction of the adsorbed PVA macromolecules is related to the electrostatic repulsion forces occurring in the studied system. The AST 50 point of zero charge (pH{sub pzc}) obtained from the potentiometric titration is equal to 4.7. Due to the nonionic character of the analyzed macromolecular compound, the polymer attendance has an insignificant effect on the AST 50 surface charge density. In the case of the adsorbent particles zeta potential, the obtained dependencies are different in the absence and presence of PVA. The shift of the slipping plane and displacement of the counter-ions from Stern layer by the adsorbed polymer chains have the greatest effect on the ζ potential value. The stability measurements indicate that the AST 50 suspensions in the presence of the background electrolyte at pH 3 and 6 are unstable. In turn, in an alkaline medium the mixed oxide suspensions exhibit the highest durability, which is a result of a large number of the negative charges on the AST 50 surface. The addition of PVA 100 significantly improves the suspension stability at pH 3 and 6; at higher pH value, the polymer presence does not influence the system durability. It is related to the steric and electrosteric stabilization of the colloidal particles by the adsorbed polyvinyl alcohol macromolecules.

  17. Investigations of percutaneous uptake of ultrafine TiO{sub 2} particles at the high energy ion nanoprobe LIPSION

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Menzel, F. E-mail: fmenzel@physik.uni-leipzig.de; Reinert, T.; Vogt, J.; Butz, T

    2004-06-01

    Micronised TiO{sub 2} particles with a diameter of about 15 nm are used in sunscreens as physical UV filter. Due to the small particle size it may be supposed that TiO{sub 2} particles can pass through the uppermost horny skin layer (stratum corneum) via intercellular channels and penetrate into deeper vital skin layers. Accumulations of TiO{sub 2} particles in the skin can decrease the threshold for allergies of the immune system or cause allergic reactions directly. Spatially resolved ion beam analysis (PIXE, RBS, STIM and secondary electron imaging) was carried out on freeze-dried cross-sections of biopsies of pig skin, on which four different formulations containing TiO{sub 2} particles were applied. The investigations were carried out at the high energy ion nanoprobe LIPSION in Leipzig with a 2.25 MeV proton beam, which was focused to a diameter of 1 {mu}m. The analysis concentrated on the penetration depth and on pathways of the TiO{sub 2} particles into the skin. In these measurements a penetration of TiO{sub 2} particles through the s. corneum into the underlying stratum granulosum via intercellular space was found. Hair follicles do not seem to be important penetration pathways because no TiO{sub 2} was detected inside. The TiO{sub 2} particle concentration in the stratum spinosum was below the minimum detection limit of about 1 particle/{mu}m{sup 2}. These findings show the importance of coating the TiO{sub 2} particles in order to prevent damage of RNA and DNA of skin cells by photocatalytic reactions of the penetrated particles caused by absorption of UV light.

  18. EXAFS analysis of cations distribution in structure of Co{sub 1−x}Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles obtained by hydrothermal method in aloe vera extract solution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wongpratat, Unchista [Materials Science and Nanotechnology Program, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Maensiri, Santi [School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University, Nakhonratchasima 30000 (Thailand); Swatsitang, Ekaphan, E-mail: ekaphan@kku.ac.th [Materials Science and Nanotechnology Program, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Integrated Nanotechnology Research Center, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 Thailand (Thailand)

    2016-09-01

    Graphical abstract: It is obvious from the M–H curves at room temperature of Co{sub 1−x}Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.0) nanoparticles that partially substitution of the lower Bohr magneton (2 μ{sub B}) and smaller atomic radii (0.55 Å at A site, 0.69 Å at B site) of Ni{sup 2+} ions on the higher Bohr magneton (3 μ{sub B}) and larger atomic radii (0.58 Å at A site, 0.74 Å at B site) of Co{sup 2+} ions can increase the saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) of sample with x = 0.75 to approximately 1.4 times of sample with x = 0, due to the increase of the aspect ratio (surface to volume) of nanoparticles, as a result of particle size decreasing from 37.03 to 12.63 nm. In addition to this, the ferrimagnetic behavior of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} has been changed to superparamagnetic behavior with the dramatic decrease of the coercivity from 1365.60 to 63.15 Oe. - Highlights: • Magnetic behavior of Co{sub 1−x}Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} NPs depends on Ni content and size of NPs. • Distribution of Co{sup 2+} and Ni{sup 2+} ions in the structure results in the increase of M{sub s}. • Superparamagnetic behavior is observed with increasing of the aspect ratio. • M{sub s} is increased by a factor 1.4 to a value of 57.57 emu/g in Co{sub 0.25}Ni{sub 0.75}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. • H{sub c} is decreased by a factor 20 to a value of 63.15 Oe in Co{sub 0.25}Ni{sub 0.75}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. - Abstract: Effect of cations distribution upon EXAFS analysis on magnetic properties of Co{sub 1−x}Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.0) nanoparticles prepared by the hydrothermal method in aloe vera extract solution were studied. XRD analysis confirmed a pure phase of cubic spinel ferrite of all samples. Changes in lattice parameter and particle size depended on the Ni content with partial substitution and site distributions of Co{sup 2+}, Ni{sup 2+} ions of different ionic radii at both tetrahedral and octahedral sites in the

  19. Capture and alignment of phi29 viral particles in sub-40 nanometer porous alumina membranes.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Moon, Jeong-Mi; Akin, Demir; Xuan, Yi; Ye, Peide D; Guo, Peixuan; Bashir, Rashid

    2009-02-01

    Bacteriophage phi29 virus nanoparticles and its associated DNA packaging nanomotor can provide for novel possibilities towards the development of hybrid bio-nano structures. Towards the goal of interfacing the phi29 viruses and nanomotors with artificial micro and nanostructures, we fabricated nanoporous Anodic Aluminum Oxide (AAO) membranes with pore size of 70 nm and shrunk the pores to sub 40 nm diameter using atomic layer deposition (ALD) of Aluminum Oxide. We were able to capture and align particles in the anodized nanopores using two methods. Firstly, a functionalization and polishing process to chemically attach the particles in the inner surface of the pores was developed. Secondly, centrifugation of the particles was utilized to align them in the pores of the nanoporous membranes. In addition, when a mixture of empty capsids and packaged particles was centrifuged at specific speeds, it was found that the empty capsids deform and pass through 40 nm diameter pores whereas the particles packaged with DNA were mainly retained at the top surface of the nanoporous membranes. Fluorescence microscopy was used to verify the selective filtration of empty capsids through the nanoporous membranes.

  20. Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Dy{sup 3+}/Li{sup +} phosphors synthesized by spray

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Balderas X, R.; Carmona T, S.; Falcony, C., E-mail: scarmonat81@gmail.com [IPN, Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados, Apdo. Postal 14-740, 07000 Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico)

    2017-11-01

    Dysprosium and lithium-activated yttrium oxide phosphor was synthesized at 1100 degrees Celsius by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (Usp) using Di water as solvent and metal chlorides as precursors. The characteristic emission peak of Dy{sup 3+} due to the transitions {sup 4}F{sub 9/2} to {sup 6}H{sub 15/2} at 483 nm, {sup 4}F{sub 9/2} to {sup 6}H{sub 13/2} at 573 nm, {sup 4}F{sub 9/2} to {sup 6}H{sub 11/2} at 667 nm and {sup 4}F{sub 9/2} to {sup 6}H{sub 9/2} at 766 nm were observed. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy measurements were carried out to understand surface morphological features and the particle size of the phosphor. The uniformity of phase of Dy{sup 3+} - Li{sup +} doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} phosphors was checked by X-ray diffraction technique. The phosphors form clusters that were found to be ∼ 1 μm in size, however, particles that form these clusters have sizes between 40 and 120 nm. (Author)

  1. Sub-10-nm suspended nano-web formation by direct laser writing

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Sihao; Yu, Ye; Liu, Hailong; Lim, Kevin T. P.; Madurai Srinivasan, Bharathi; Zhang, Yong Wei; Yang, Joel K. W.

    2018-06-01

    A diffraction-limited three-dimensional (3D) direct laser writing (DLW) system based on two-photon polymerization can routinely pattern structures at the 100 nm length scale. Several schemes have been developed to improve the patterning resolution of 3D DLW but often require customized resist formulations or multi-wavelength exposures. Here, we introduce a scheme to produce suspended nano-webs with feature sizes below 10 nm in IP-Dip resist using sub-threshold exposure conditions in a commercial DLW system. The narrowest suspended lines (nano-webs) measured 7 nm in width. Larger ∼20 nm nano-webs were patterned with ∼80% yield at increased laser powers. In addition, closely spaced nano-gaps with a center-to-center distance of 33 nm were produced by patterning vertically displaced suspended lines followed by metal deposition and liftoff. We provide hypotheses and present preliminary results for a mechanism involving the initiation of a percolative path and a strain-induced narrowing in the nano-web formation. Our approach allows selective features to be patterned with dimensions comparable to the sub-10 nm patterning capability of electron-beam lithography (EBL).

  2. Large-scale lithography for sub-500nm features

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pelzer, R L; Steininger, T; Belier, Benoit; Julie, Gwenaelle

    2006-01-01

    The interest in micro- and nanotechnologies has grown rapidly in the last years. The applications are versatile and different techniques found its way into several research domains as optics, electronics, magnetism, fluidics, etc. In all of these fields integration of more and more functions on steadily decreasing device dimensions lead to an increase in structural density and feature size. Expensive and slow processes utilizing projection steppers or e-beam direct writer equipment are used to fabricate nm features today. A high throughput and cost effective method adapted on a standard mask aligner will be demonstrated, making features of below 300nm available on wafer-level. We will demonstrate results of 4 different resists exposed on a DUV proximity aligner and plasma etched for optical and biological applications in the sub-300nm range

  3. Large-scale lithography for sub-500nm features

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pelzer, R L [Technology group, EV Group, DI Erich Thallner Str. 1, A-4780 Schaerding (Austria); Steininger, T [Technology group, EV Group, DI Erich Thallner Str. 1, A-4780 Schaerding (Austria); Belier, Benoit [CNRS, Institut d' Electronique Fondamentale, Universite Paris-Sud Bat 220, F- 91405 Orsay Cedex (France); Julie, Gwenaelle [CNRS, Institut d' Electronique Fondamentale, Universite Paris-Sud Bat 220, F- 91405 Orsay Cedex (France)

    2006-04-01

    The interest in micro- and nanotechnologies has grown rapidly in the last years. The applications are versatile and different techniques found its way into several research domains as optics, electronics, magnetism, fluidics, etc. In all of these fields integration of more and more functions on steadily decreasing device dimensions lead to an increase in structural density and feature size. Expensive and slow processes utilizing projection steppers or e-beam direct writer equipment are used to fabricate nm features today. A high throughput and cost effective method adapted on a standard mask aligner will be demonstrated, making features of below 300nm available on wafer-level. We will demonstrate results of 4 different resists exposed on a DUV proximity aligner and plasma etched for optical and biological applications in the sub-300nm range.

  4. High-pressure high-temperature stability of hcp-Ir<sub>xOs>1-xsub> (x = 0.50 and 0.55) alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yusenko, Kirill V.; Bykova, Elena; Bykov, Maxim; Gromilov, Sergey A.; Kurnosov, Alexander V.; Prescher, Clemens; Prakapenka, Vitali B.; Crichton, Wilson A.; Hanfland, Michael; Margadonna, Serena; Dubrovinsky, Leonid S.

    2016-12-23

    Hcp-Ir<sub>0.55sub>Os>0.45sub> and hcp-Ir<sub>0.50sub>Os>0.50sub> alloys were synthesised by thermal decomposition of single-source precursors in hydrogen atmosphere. Both alloys correspond to a miscibility gap in the Ir–Os binary phase diagram and therefore are metastable at ambient conditions. An in situ powder X-ray diffraction has been used for a monitoring a formation of hcp-Ir0.55Os0.45 alloy from (NH<sub>4sub>)>2sub>[Ir>0.55sub>Os>0.45sub>Cl>6sub>] precursor. A crystalline intermediate compound and nanodimentional metallic particles with a large concentration of defects has been found as key intermediates in the thermal decomposition process in hydrogen flow. High-temperature stability of titled hcp-structured alloys has been investigated upon compression up to 11 GPa using a multi-anvil press and up to 80 GPa using laser-heated diamond-anvil cells to obtain a phase separation into fcc + hcp mixture. Compressibility curves at room temperature as well as thermal expansion at ambient pressure and under compression up to 80 GPa were collected to obtain thermal expansion coefficients and bulk moduli. hcp-Ir<sub>0.55sub>Os>0.45sub> alloy shows bulk moduli B0 = 395 GPa. Thermal expansion coefficients were estimated as α = 1.6·10-5 K-1 at ambient pressure and α = 0.3·10-5 K-1 at 80 GPa. Obtained high-pressure high-temperature data allowed us to construct the first model for pressure-dependent Ir–Os phase diagram.

  5. Preparation of spherical and cubic Fe{sub 55}Co{sub 45} microstructures for studying the role of particle morphology in magnetorheological suspensions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Arief, Injamamul; Mukhopadhyay, P.K., E-mail: pkm@bose.res.in

    2014-06-01

    Cubic and spherical Fe{sub 55}Co{sub 45} alloyed microstructures were synthesized by borohydride reduction from aqueous solutions of metallic precursors, using stabilizers and polymer. Monosodium citrate, sodium acetate and PEG 6000 were utilized as electrostatic stabilizers and polymeric surface modifier. Suitable reaction conditions were maintained for synthesis of predominantly larger particles (0.7 µm to 1.2 µm), that facilitates use in magnetorheological fluids. Surface morphological studies by scanning electron microscopy revealed well shaped cubic and spherical geometry for the citrate and polymer-stabilized Fe{sub 55}Co{sub 45} alloys, while the alloy compositions remained nearly the same for both. X-ray diffractions of the as-prepared and annealed samples under various temperatures showed high degree of crystallinity with increasing temperatures. Studies of D.C. magnetization of the systems reveal that the particles have a core–shell structure, with inner magnetic core having a diameter around 30 nm with a log-normal distribution. Magnetorheological studies were performed with 8 vol% suspensions of as-synthesized particles dispersed in silicone oil (viscosity 30 mPa s at 25 °C) under different magnetic fields. Detailed studies of the magnetorheological properties were studied on these systems for practical use.

  6. Size-dependent properties of YBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 6 sub + sub x nanopowder

    CERN Document Server

    Paturi, P; Huhtinen, H; Huhtala, V P; Laiho, R

    2003-01-01

    YBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 6 sub + sub x nanopowder, prepared by the citrate sol-gel method, is segregated by sedimentation in ethanol into three size groups with average particle heights of 0.7, 1.6 and 2.3 nm. The structural properties and composition of the powders, investigated by x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy and EPR-spectroscopy, show no clear differences, except the size. According to investigations by magnetometry and by non-resonant microwave absorption the as-prepared powder contains weak links which, however, disappear during the segregation. The magnetic susceptibility of the samples decreases with the decreasing particle size, in agreement with the susceptibility values calculated from the London equations for cylindrical particles smaller than the London penetration depth. In all three size groups the critical temperature of superconductivity is 92 K.

  7. Preparation of sub 3 nm copper nanoparticles by microwave irradiation in the presence of triethylene tetramin

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tseng, Po-Hao; Wang, Yen-Zen; Hsieh, Tar-Hwa; Ho, Ko-Shan; Tsai, Cheng-Hsien; Chen, Kuan-Ting

    2018-02-01

    The preparation of sub 3 nm copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) in ethylene glycol (EG) using triethylene tetramine (TETA) as chelating and reducing agents via a rapid microwave (MW) irradiation is reported. The sub 3 nm CuNPs after MW irradiation are clearly seen from the electronic micrographs. The firm chelation of Cu2+ by TETA is illustrated by the dark blue color of Cu2+/TETA/EG solution and the redox reaction is confirmed by the appearance of red color of the mixtures. The optimal mole ratio of TETA/Cu 2+ is found to be 2.5/1 for preparing sub 3 nm CuNPs under the MW irradiation, operated at 800 W for 1 min. The plasmonic absorption λ max demonstrated in UV-vis spectra are found to close to 200 nm for sub 3 nm CuNPs, comparing to 500 ˜ 600 nm for regular, larger CuNPs. The extremely low Tm around 30 °C and the fusion/recrystallization sequence of sub 3 nm CuNPs can be directly measured by their differential scanning calorimetry thermograms.

  8. Hydrothermal synthesis and tunable luminescent properties of Sr{sub 2-x}Dy {sub x}CeO{sub 4} rod-like phosphors derived from co-precipitation precursors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    He Xianghong [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Teachers' University of Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China) and Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Precious Metal Chemistry and Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China)]. E-mail: hexh@jstu.edu.cn; Li Weihua [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Teachers' University of Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China); Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Precious Metal Chemistry and Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China); Zhou Quanfa [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Teachers' University of Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China); Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Precious Metal Chemistry and Technology, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213001 (China)

    2006-09-25

    Uniform rod-like Sr{sub 2-x}Dy {sub x}CeO{sub 4} nano-phosphors with orthorhombic structure were prepared via a hydrothermal method, in the absence of any surfactant or template. The structure, morphology, particle size, and tunable luminescence properties of the samples were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence spectrum, respectively. The as-prepared phase-pure Sr{sub 2-x}Dy {sub x}CeO{sub 4} nanorods had the length of 50-150 nm and width of 80 nm. The Dy{sup 3+} ions emission in Sr{sub 2-x}Dy {sub x}CeO{sub 4} could be effectively excited through the energy absorbed by Sr{sub 2}CeO{sub 4} host. The tunable photoluminescence has been observed from Sr{sub 2}CeO{sub 4} doped with Dy{sup 3+} ions. Emission color of Sr{sub 2-x}Dy {sub x}CeO{sub 4} phosphor could be regulated from blue-white to white to yellow by adjusting the Dy{sup 3+} doping content in Sr{sub 2}CeO{sub 4} host, which originated from energy transfer between two different emission centers.

  9. Determining the size and concentration dependence of gold nanoparticles in vitro cytotoxicity (IC{sub 50}) test using WST-1 assay

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rosli, Nur Shafawati binti; Rahman, Azhar Abdul [School of Physics, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang (Malaysia); Aziz, Azlan Abdul [School of Physics, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang (Malaysia); Nano-Biotechnology Research and Innovation (NanoBRI), Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang (Malaysia); Shamsuddin, Shaharum [Nano-Biotechnology Research and Innovation (NanoBRI), Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang (Malaysia); School of Health Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan (Malaysia)

    2015-04-24

    Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) received a great deal of attention for biomedical applications, especially in diagnostic imaging and therapeutics. Even though AuNPs have potential benefits in biomedical applications, the impact of AuNPs on human and environmental health still remains unclear. The use of AuNPs which is a high-atomic-number materials, provide advantages in terms of radiation dose enhancement. However, before this can become a clinical reality, cytotoxicity of the AuNPs has to be carefully evaluated. Cytotoxicity test is a rapid, standardized test that is very sensitive to determine whether the nanoparticles produced are harmful or benign on cellular components. In this work the size and concentration dependence of AuNPs cytotoxicity in breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) are tested by using WST-1 assay. The sizes of AuNPs tested were 13 nm, 50 nm, and 70 nm. The cells were seeded in the 96-well plate and were treated with different concentrations of AuNPs by serial dilution for each size of AuNPs. The high concentration of AuNPs exhibit lower cell viability compared to low concentration of AuNPs. We quantified the toxicity of AuNPs in MCF-7 cell lines by determining the IC{sub 50} values in WST-1 assays. The IC{sub 50} values (inhibitory concentrations that effected 50% growth inhibition) of 50 nm AuNPs is lower than 13 nm and 70 nm AuNPs. Mean that, 50nm AuNPs are more toxic to the MCF-7 cells compared to smaller and larger sizes AuNPs. The presented results clearly indicate that the cytotoxicity of AuNPs depend not only on the concentration, but also the size of the nanoparticles.

  10. Laser ablation of ceramic Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} at 193 nm and 248 nm: The importance of single-photon ionization processes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pelaez, R. J.; Afonso, C. N. [Laser Processing Group, Instituto de Optica, CSIC, Serrano 121, Madrid 28006 (Spain); Bator, M.; Lippert, T. [General Energy Research Department, Paul Scherrer Institut, CH-5232 Villigen PSI (Switzerland)

    2013-06-14

    The aim of this work is to demonstrate that single-photon photoionization processes make a significant difference in the expansion and temperature of the plasma produced by laser ablation of ceramic Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in vacuum as well as to show their consequences in the kinetic energy distribution of the species that eventually will impact on the film properties produced by pulsed laser deposition. This work compares results obtained by mass spectrometry and optical spectroscopy on the composition and features of the plasma produced by laser ablation at 193 nm and 248 nm, i.e., photon energies that are, respectively, above and below the ionization potential of Al, and for fluences between threshold for visible plasma and up to Almost-Equal-To 2 times higher. The results show that the ionic composition and excitation of the plasma as well as the ion kinetic energies are much higher at 193 nm than at 248 nm and, in the latter case, the population of excited ions is even negligible. The comparison of Maxwell-Boltzmann temperature, electron temperatures, and densities of the plasmas produced with the two laser wavelengths suggests that the expansion of the plasma produced at 248 nm is dominated by a single population. Instead, the one produced at 193 nm is consistent with the existence of two populations of cold and hot species, the latter associated to Al{sup +} ions that travel at the forefront and produced by single photon ionization as well as Al neutrals and double ionized ions produced by electron-ion impact. The results also show that the most energetic Al neutrals in the plasma produced at the two studied wavelengths are in the ground state.

  11. Solid-state synthesis of Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} for high power lithium ion battery applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Han, Seung-Woo [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 712-749 (Korea, Republic of); Ryu, Ji Heon [Graduate School of Knowledge-Based Technology and Energy, Korea Polytechnic University, Siheung 429-793 (Korea, Republic of); Jeong, Joayoung [Cell Precedence Development Group, Samsung SDI, Yongin 446-577 (Korea, Republic of); Yoon, Dang-Hyok, E-mail: dhyoon@ynu.ac.kr [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 712-749 (Korea, Republic of)

    2013-09-05

    Highlights: •High energy milling using 0.30 and 0.45 mm beads for Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} synthesis. •Synthesis of 162 nm-sized pure Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} by solid-state reaction. •Spray drying using fine starting materials to confer paste tackiness. •High capacity of 174 mAh/g and adequate rate properties for high power LIBs applications. -- Abstract: Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} was synthesized by a solid-state reaction between Li{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and anatase TiO{sub 2} for applications to high power lithium ion batteries. The starting materials underwent 6 h of high energy milling using ZrO{sub 2} beads with two different sizes, 0.30 and 0.45 mm. The smaller ZrO{sub 2} beads resulted in finer starting materials. Spray drying was also performed on the 0.30 mm beads-treated particles to enhance the screen printability of a paste containing this powder. The finer starting materials showed a pure 162 nm-sized Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} due to the decreased diffusion length for a solid-state reaction, whereas the 0.45 mm beads-treated starting materials resulted in a 242 nm-sized Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} phase containing 2 wt.% of rutile TiO{sub 2} that had transformed from the anatase phase during heat treatment at 800 °C for 3 h. The finer Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} showed higher charge capacity and better charge/discharge rates than the coarser particles, which highlights the importance of the primary particle size on the electrochemical properties of Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} for high power applications. The fine Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} particles had a discharge capacity of 174 mAh/g at 0.1 C and capacity retention of 80% at 10.0 C.

  12. Sub-micron particle number size distribution characteristics at two urban locations in Leicester

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hama, Sarkawt M. L.; Cordell, Rebecca L.; Kos, Gerard P. A.; Weijers, E. P.; Monks, Paul S.

    2017-09-01

    The particle number size distribution (PNSD) of atmospheric particles not only provides information about sources and atmospheric processing of particles, but also plays an important role in determining regional lung dose. Owing to the importance of PNSD in understanding particulate pollution two short-term campaigns (March-June 2014) measurements of sub-micron PNSD were conducted at two urban background locations in Leicester, UK. At the first site, Leicester Automatic Urban Rural Network (AURN), the mean number concentrations of nucleation, Aitken, accumulation modes, the total particles, equivalent black carbon (eBC) mass concentrations were 2002, 3258, 1576, 6837 # cm-3, 1.7 μg m-3, respectively, and at the second site, Brookfield (BF), were 1455, 2407, 874, 4737 # cm-3, 0.77 μg m-3, respectively. The total particle number was dominated by the nucleation and Aitken modes, with both consisting of 77%, and 81% of total number concentrations at AURN and BF sites, respectively. This behaviour could be attributed to primary emissions (traffic) of ultrafine particles and the temporal evolution of mixing layer. The size distribution at the AURN site shows bimodal distribution at 22 nm with a minor peak at 70 nm. The size distribution at BF site, however, exhibits unimodal distribution at 35 nm. This study has for the first time investigated the effect of Easter holiday on PNSD in UK. The temporal variation of PNSD demonstrated a good degree of correlation with traffic-related pollutants (NOX, and eBC at both sites). The meteorological conditions, also had an impact on the PNSD and eBC at both sites. During the measurement period, the frequency of NPF events was calculated to be 13.3%, and 22.2% at AURN and BF sites, respectively. The average value of formation and growth rates of nucleation mode particles were 1.3, and 1.17 cm-3 s-1 and 7.42, and 5.3 nm h-1 at AURN, and BF sites, respectively. It can suggested that aerosol particles in Leicester originate mainly

  13. Sub 20nm particle inspection on EUV mask blanks

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Bussink, P.G.W.; Volatier, J.B.; Walle, P. van der; Fritz, E.C.; Donck, J.C.J. van der

    2016-01-01

    The Rapid Nano is a particle inspection system developed by TNO for the qualification of EUV reticle handling equipment. The detection principle of this system is dark-field microscopy. The performance of the system has been improved via model-based design. Through our model of the scattering

  14. Magnetic rotational hysteresis study on spherical 85-160 nm Fe3O4 particles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schmidbauer, E.

    1988-05-01

    Rotational hysteresis losses Wr were determined as a function of magnetic field H for dispensed spherical Fe3O4 particles of mean grain sizes 85 nm, 127 nm and 162 nm between 78 K and 294 K. The observed Wr-H curves are compared with theoretical curves for single domain particles. The analysed particles reveal centers of high magnetic anisotropy. Such centers can be of importance during the generation of a thermoremanent magnetization, as they may be the origin of enhanced magnetic stability.

  15. Magneto-structural transformations in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37.5}Sn{sub 12.5−x}In{sub x} Heusler powders

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Maziarz, Wojciech; Wójcik, Anna; Czaja, Paweł [Instituite of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Str, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Żywczak, Antoni [AGH University of Science and Technology, Academic Centre for Materials and Nanotechnology, Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Jan Dutkiewicz [Instituite of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Str, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Hawełek, Łukasz [Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals, ul. Sowinskiego 5, 44-100 Gliwice (Poland); Cesari, Eduard [Department de Física, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, Palma de Mallorca E-07122 (Spain)

    2016-08-15

    The effect of ball milling and subsequently annealing of melt spun ribbons on magneto-structural transformations in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37.5}Sn{sub 12.5−x}In{sub x} (x=0, 2, 4, 6) ribbons is presented. Short time vibration milling allows to obtain chemically homogenous powders of angular particle shapes and size within 10–50 μm. Milling does not change the characteristic temperatures of martensitic transformation in comparison to the melt spun ribbons. The effect of In substitution for Sn on martensitic transformation has a complex mechanism, associated with electron density change. Substitution of Sn by In in both milled and annealed powders leads to decrease of Curie temperature of austenite and increase of martensitic transformation temperature, stabilizing martensitic phase. The coexistence of magnetic transformation of austenite and martensitic transformation at low magnetic field was observed. The intermartensitic transformation of 4O martensite to L1{sub 0} martensite was observed during cooling at low magnetic field and this was confirmed by TEM microstructure observations. The annealing process of as-milled powders leads to the change of their martensitic structure due to relaxation of internal stresses associated with anisotropic columnar grain microstructure formed during melt spinning process. The level of stresses introduced during milling of ribbons has no significant influence on martensitic transformation. The annealing process of as milled powders leads to enhancement of their magnetic properties, decrease of Curie temperature of austenite, and marginal change of temperature of martenisitic transformation. - Highlights: • Vibration milling of ribbons allows to obtain angular powders of size 10–50 μm. • Vibration milling improves chemical homogeneity of alloys. • Indium addition changes the magneto-structural transformations in Ni–Mn–Sn–In alloys. • Complex character of magneto-structural transformations is visible. • Multistep

  16. Evaluation of the urea content in the synthesis by combustion reaction of the NiAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} catalysts; Avaliacao do teor de ureia na sintese por reacao de combustao do catalisador NiAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Leal, E.; Sousa, J.-P.L.M.L.; Costa, A.C.F.M.; Gama, L. [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), PB (Brazil). Unidade Academica de Engenharia de Materiais; Argolo, F. [Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, BA (Brazil). Inst. de Quimica; Sasaki, J.M. [Universidade Federal do Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, CE (Brazil). Dept. de Fisica

    2009-07-01

    The aim of this work is to evaluate the influence of the urea fuel in the structure and morphology of the NiAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} prepared by combustion reaction. The powders were prepared according to the propellants and explosives theory, using urea in the stoichiometric composition, with 10% of excess and deficiency of this fuel. The samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR, particle size distribution and textural analysis by nitrogen adsorption (BET/BJH). The DRX results showed the presence of NiAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} as major phase and traces of NiO for all the samples. Also show crystallites size between 13 and 21 nm. All the samples showed large agglomerates size distribution, with D{sub 50%} between 18.6 and 20.4 {mu}m, and morphology with irregular plates shape. The increase of the urea content caused an increase in the particle size and a reduction in the surface area, from 270 to 52 m{sup 2}/g. (author)

  17. Ternary scandium-rich indides Sc{sub 50}T{sub 13}In{sub 3} and Sc{sub 50}Rh{sub 13}In{sub 3}O{sub y} (T = Rh, Ir; y {approx} 8) - synthesis and crystal structure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zaremba, R.; Poettgen, R. [Inst. fuer Anorganische und Analytische Chemie, Univ. Muenster (Germany)

    2007-12-15

    New intermetallic compounds Sc{sub 50}Rh{sub 13.3}In{sub 2.7} and Sc{sub 50}Ir{sub 13.6}In{sub 2.4} and the suboxides Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13}In{sub 3.8}O{sub 8.8} and Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13.7}In{sub 2.8}O{sub 8.0} were synthesized from the elements or with Sc{sub 2}O{sub 3} as an oxygen source, respectively, in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber of an induction furnace. They crystallize with a new cubic structure type, space group F m anti 3, a = 1772.5(6) pm, wR2 = 0.032, 1111 F{sup 2} values, 34 variables for Sc{sub 50}Rh{sub 13.3}In{sub 2.7}, a = 1766.5(6) pm, wR2 = 0.041, 745 F{sup 2} values, 34 variables for Sc{sub 50}Ir{sub 13.6}In{sub 2.4}, a = 1764.4(2) pm, wR2 = 0.044, 640 F{sup 2} values, 41 variables for Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13}In{sub 3.8}O{sub 8.8}, and a = 1761.5(6) pm, wR2 = 0.054, 740 F{sup 2} values, 42 variables for Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13.7}In{sub 2.8}O{sub 8.0}. The main structural motifs are rhodium-centered indium cubes in an fcc like arrangement in which the octahedral and tetrahedral voids are filled by In2Sc{sub 12} and In1Sc{sub 12} icosahedra, respectively, resembling a Li{sub 3}Bi-like structure. The Rh1 (Ir1) and Sc4 atoms lie between these polyhedral units. The oxygen atoms partially fill Sc{sub 6} octahedra in Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13}In{sub 3.8}O{sub 8.8} and Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13.7}In{sub 2.8}O{sub 8.0} with Sc-O distances of 214 - 230 pm. These octahedra are condensed via common edges and faces, encapsulating the In2Sc{sub 12} icosahedra. Due to the high scandium content one observes strong Sc-Sc bonding with Sc-Sc distances ranging from 303 to 362 pm in Sc{sub 49.2}Rh{sub 13}In{sub 3.8}O{sub 8.8}. The shortest distances occur for Sc-Rh (267 - 295 pm). The crystal chemical relationship with the Li{sub 3}Bi-related suboxide Ti{sub 12}Sn{sub 3}O{sub 10} is discussed. (orig.)

  18. Investigation of the magnetic phase transition in thin Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} films by neutron diffraction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fenske, Jochen; Lott, Dieter; Schreyer, Andreas [GKSS Research Centre, Geesthacht (Germany); Mankey, Gary J. [MINT Center, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL (United States); Schmidt, Wolfgang; Schmalzl, Karin [JCNS, Juelich (Germany)

    2008-07-01

    In the last years perpendicular recording plays a major role in the development of novel magnetic data storage. Here, materials with high anisotropy are used which delivers good thermal stability. However in order to write the bits a high magnetic field is necessary. By the use of soft underlayers the write field can be significant reduced. Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} is a promising candidate for such an underlayer. Magnetization measurements of the bulk samples for x=10 refer to a antiferromagnetic (AF)/ferromagnetic (FM) phase transition at about 150 K when heated. Additional magnetostriction measurements indicate that the phase transition could also be induced by applying a magnetic field. The FM state lowers the high anisotropy and therefore the high write field. The AF state helps to stabilize the recording media via exchange interaction. For technical applications the use of thin films are essential to save space and costs for the next generation of magnetic storage devices. Here we present results on several thin Fe{sub 50}Pt{sub 50-x}Rh{sub x} films with different concentration of Rh. The films were examined by polarized and unpolarized neutron diffraction in dependence of temperature and magnetic field.

  19. Superhydrophobic and transparent coatings prepared by self-assembly of dual-sized silica particles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xu, Qian-Feng; Wang, Jian-Nong

    2010-06-01

    Superhydrophobic and transparent coatings have been prepared by self-assembly of dual-sized silica particles from a mixed dispersion. The desirable micro/nano hierarchical structure for superhydrophobicity is constructed simply by adjusting the size and ratio of the dual-sized particles without organic/inorganic templates. The transparency of the prepared coatings is also researched, and the light scattering can be reduced by lowering the ratio of big sub-micro particles while the superhydrophobicity maintains unchanged. When nano particles with a diameter of 50 nm and sub-micro particles with a diameter of 350 nm are assembled, a superhydrophobic property with a water contact angle of 161° is achieved. Additionally, the coated glass is also very transparent. The highest transmittance of the coated glass can reach 85%. Compared to traditional colloid self-assembly approach, which often involves dozens of steps of layer-by-layer processing and organic/inorganic templates, the present approach is much simpler and has advantages for large-scale coating.

  20. Laser ablation of nanoscale particles with 193 nm light

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Choi, J H; Lucas, D; Koshland, C P

    2007-01-01

    Laser interaction with nanoscale particles is distinct and different from laser-bulk material interaction, where a hot plasma is normally created. Here, we review our studies on 193 nm laser ablation of various nanoscale particles including NaCl, soot, polystyrene, and gold. The 20 ns laser beam with fluences up to 0.3 J/cm 2 irradiates nanoparticles in a gas stream at laser repetition rates from 10 to 100 Hz. The particle size distributions before and after irradiation are measured with a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS), and particle morphology is examined with electron microscopy. All the nanomaterials studied exhibit a similar disintegration pattern and similar particle formation characteristics. No broadband emission associated with particle heating or optical breakdown is observed. The nanoparticles formed after irradiation have a smaller mean diameter and an order of magnitude higher number concentration with a more spherical shape compared to the original particles. We use the photon-atom ratio (PAR) to interpret the laser-particle interaction energetics

  1. Influence of spark plasma sintering parameters on the mechanical properties of Cu{sub 50}Zr{sub 45}Al{sub 5} bulk metallic glass obtained using metallic glass powder

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cardinal, S. [Université de Lyon, CNRS (France); INSA-Lyon, MATEIS UMR5510, F-69621 Villeurbanne (France); Pelletier, J.M., E-mail: jean-marc.pelletier@insa-lyon.fr [Université de Lyon, CNRS (France); INSA-Lyon, MATEIS UMR5510, F-69621 Villeurbanne (France); Qiao, J.C. [School of Mechanics, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072 (China); Bonnefont, G. [Université de Lyon, CNRS (France); INSA-Lyon, MATEIS UMR5510, F-69621 Villeurbanne (France); Xie, G. [Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai (Japan)

    2016-11-20

    Gas atomized Cu{sub 50}Zr{sub 45}Al{sub 5} amorphous powder was densified by spark plasma sintering, in order to obtain bulk metallic glasses with larger size than that obtained by the conventional casting strategy. The influence of different parameters was investigated: sintering temperature, isothermal holding time as well as size of the specimens. After optimization of the processing parameters, dense and amorphous specimens were elaborated with a diameter up to 30 mm. Thermal stability and mechanical properties of consolidated samples are similar to those of Cu{sub 50}Zr{sub 45} Al{sub 5} cast alloy. A hardness of 535 HV and a compressive strength of 1600 MPa have been obtained. Fractographic investigation indicated an intergranular rupture mode which leads to lower toughness compared to as the cast material, but for these samples the size is limited to 3 mm. However an increase in applied pressure (from 90 MPa to 1 GPa) induces a significant improvement in bonding between powder particles.

  2. Megasonic cleaning strategy for sub-10nm photomasks

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hsu, Jyh-Wei; Samayoa, Martin; Dress, Peter; Dietze, Uwe; Ma, Ai-Jay; Lin, Chia-Shih; Lai, Rick; Chang, Peter; Tuo, Laurent

    2016-10-01

    One of the main challenges in photomask cleaning is balancing particle removal efficiency (PRE) with pattern damage control. To overcome this challenge, a high frequency megasonic cleaning strategy is implemented. Apart from megasonic frequency and power, photomask surface conditioning also influences cleaning performance. With improved wettability, cleanliness is enhanced while pattern damage risk is simultaneously reduced. Therefore, a particle removal process based on higher megasonic frequencies, combined with proper surface pre-treatment, provides improved cleanliness without the unintended side effects of pattern damage, thus supporting the extension of megasonic cleaning technology into 10nm half pitch (hp) device node and beyond.

  3. Size-effect in layered ferrielectric CuInP<sub>2sub>S>6sub>

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chyasnavichyus, Marius [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences; Susner, Michael A. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). Materials Science and Technology Division; Ievlev, Anton V. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences; Eliseev, Eugene A. [National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU), Kiev (Ukraine). Inst. for Problems of Materials Science; Kalinin, Sergei V. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences; Balke, Nina [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences; Morozovska, Anna N. [National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU), Kiev (Ukraine). Inst. of Physics; McGuire, Michael A. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). Materials Science and Technology Division; Maksymovych, Petro [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences

    2016-10-24

    In this paper, we report on polarization switching properties of thin flakes of van der Waals ferrielectric CuInP<sub>2sub>S>6sub>. We observe mesoscale polarization domains, ferroelectric switching, and the Curie temperature above 299 K down to a thickness of ~50 nm. However, the electromechanical response is progressively suppressed below 50 nm, and vanishes at room temperature at a thickness of ~10 nm. Though larger than a single layer, 10 nm is still a very small value compared to the expectations for an intrinsic ferroelectric semiconductor. We therefore propose a model for a doped surface layer that screens spontaneous polarization in this material. The charges in the screening layer may also participate in secondary chemical reactions, which may explain domain pinning observed in thermal cycling of the flakes above the Curie temperature. At the same time, ferroelectric switching is intertwined with ionic diffusion, resulting in erratic and damaging switching at room temperature. Finally, owing to much stronger temperature dependence of ionic diffusion, the two phenomena can be decoupled allowing more reliable switching to be obtained at low temperatures.

  4. A high performance hydrogen sulfide gas sensor based on porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} operates at room-temperature

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Huang, Yanwu; Chen, Weimei; Zhang, Shouchao; Kuang, Zhong; Ao, Dongyi [School of Physical Electronics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054 (China); Alkurd, Nooraldeen Rafat; Zhou, Weilie [Advanced Materials Research Institute, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70148 (United States); Liu, Wei [School of Physical Electronics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054 (China); Shen, Wenzhong [Institute of Coal Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Taiyuan, 030001 (China); Li, Zhijie, E-mail: zhijieli@uestc.edu.cn [School of Physical Electronics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054 (China)

    2015-10-01

    Highlights: • Novel porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. • The sensor based on porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibits high sensitivity towards H{sub 2}S gas. • The detection limit towards H{sub 2}S gas was as low as 50 ppb at room temperature. • The sensor exhibits excellent selectivity against other toxic and noxious gases. - Abstract: Porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles were synthesized by simple annealing of β-FeOOH precursor derived from a facile hydrothermal route, the structures and morphologies of the as-prepared product were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the average crystallite size of the obtained porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} was 34 nm and exits numerous irregularly distributed pores with a diameter varying from 2 nm to 10 nm on the particle surface. The gas-sensing properties of the sensor based on porous α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles were investigated, and the result showed that the sensor exhibited a high performance in hydrogen sulfide (H{sub 2}S) detection at room temperature. The highest sensitivity reached 38.4 for 100 ppm H{sub 2}S, and the detection limit was as low as 50 ppb. In addition, the response of the sensor towards other gases including C{sub 2}H{sub 5}OH, CO, H{sub 2} and NH{sub 3} indicates the sensor has an excellent selectivity to detection H{sub 2}S gas. Finally, the sensing mechanism of the sensor towards H{sub 2}S was also discussed.

  5. Low field magnetoresistance effects in fine particles of La sub 0 sub . sub 6 sub 7 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 3 sub 3 MnO sub 3 perovskites

    CERN Document Server

    Rivas, J; Fondado, A; Rivadulla, F; López-Quintela, M A

    2000-01-01

    In this work magnetic and magnetotransport experimental data in well-characterized small particles of La sub 0 sub . sub 6 sub 7 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 3 sub 3 MnO sub 3 are presented. Grain size reduction leads to a larger resistivity and a decrease in metal-insulator transition temperature. Intrinsic colossal magnetoresistance (CMR) is destroyed while intergranular one is promoted to larger values. This low field MR can be explained taking into account magnetization data through spin-polarized tunneling model, which ensures an acceptable first-order fit between both magnitudes. Finally, low-temperature resistivity upturn present in small particle size samples can be understood in terms of an electrostatic barrier between grains.

  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. Photodissociation of C{sub 3}H{sub 5}Br and C{sub 4}H{sub 7}Br at 234 nm

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Hyun Kook; Paul, Dababrata; Hong, Ki Ryong; Cho, Ha Na; Kim, Tae Kyu [Pusan National University, Busan (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Kyoung Seok [Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

    2012-01-15

    The photodissociation dynamics of cyclopropyl bromide (C-3H{sub 5}Br) and cyclobutyl bromide (C{sub 4}H{sub 7}Br) at 234 nm was investigated. A two-dimensional photofragment ion-imaging technique coupled with a [2+1] resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization scheme was utilized to obtain speed and angular distributions of the nascent Br({sup 2}P{sub 3/2}) and Br*({sup 2}P{sub 1/2}) atoms. The recoil anisotropies for the Br and Br* channels were measured to be βBr = 0.92 ± 0.03 and βBr* = 1.52 ± 0.04 for C{sub 3}H{sub 5}Br and βBr = 1.10 ± 0.03 and βBr* = 1.49 ± 0.05 for C{sub 4}H{sub 7}Br. The relative quantum yield for Br was found to be ΦBr = 0.13 ± 0.03 and for C{sub 3}H{sub 5}Br and C{sub 4}H{sub 7}Br, respectively. The soft radical limit of the impulsive model adequately modeled the related energy partitioning. The nonadiabatic transition probability from the 3A' and 4A' potential energy surfaces was estimated and discussed.

  8. 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)

  9. Interaction of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles with the marine microalga Nitzschia closterium: Growth inhibition, oxidative stress and internalization

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xia, Bin, E-mail: xiabin@ysfri.ac.cn; Chen, Bijuan; Sun, Xuemei; Qu, Keming; Ma, Feifei; Du, Meirong

    2015-03-01

    The toxicity of TiO{sub 2} engineered nanoparticles (NPs) to the marine microalga Nitzschia closterium was investigated by examining growth inhibition, oxidative stress and uptake. The results indicated that the toxicity of TiO{sub 2} particles to algal cells significantly increased with decreasing nominal particle size, which was evidenced by the 96 EC{sub 50} values of 88.78, 118.80 and 179.05 mg/L for 21 nm, 60 nm and 400 nm TiO{sub 2} particles, respectively. The growth rate was significantly inhibited when the alga was exposed to 5 mg/L TiO{sub 2} NPs (21 nm). Measurements of antioxidant enzyme activities showed that superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities were first induced and subsequently inhibited following exposure to 5 mg/L TiO{sub 2} NPs. The depletion of antioxidant enzymes with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reactive oxygen species (ROS) posed a hazard to membrane integrity. A combination of flow cytometry analysis, transmission electron microscopy and Ti content measurement indicated that TiO{sub 2} NPs were internalized in N. closterium cells. The level of extracellular ROS, which was induced by TiO{sub 2} NPs under visible light, was negligible when compared with the intracellular ROS level (accounting for less than 6.0% of the total ROS level). These findings suggest that elevated TiO{sub 2} nanotoxicity in marine environments is related to increased ROS levels caused by internalization of TiO{sub 2} NPs. - Highlights: • Inhibition of marine microalgae by TiO{sub 2} NPs and bulk particles was evaluated. • Aggregation of TiO{sub 2} NPs and bulk particles was observed in marine algal test medium. • TiO{sub 2} NPs induced damage to algal cell membranes as detected by flow cytometry. • Increased TiO{sub 2} nanotoxicity to algal cells was caused by internalization of NPs.

  10. Chemical vapour deposition of freestanding sub-60 nm graphene gyroids

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cebo, Tomasz; Aria, Adrianus I.; Dolan, James A.; Weatherup, Robert S.; Nakanishi, Kenichi; Kidambi, Piran R.; Divitini, Giorgio; Ducati, Caterina; Steiner, Ullrich; Hofmann, Stephan

    2017-12-01

    The direct chemical vapour deposition of freestanding graphene gyroids with controlled sub-60 nm unit cell sizes is demonstrated. Three-dimensional (3D) nickel templates were fabricated through electrodeposition into a selectively voided triblock terpolymer. The high temperature instability of sub-micron unit cell structures was effectively addressed through the early introduction of the carbon precursor, which stabilizes the metallized gyroidal templates. The as-grown graphene gyroids are self-supporting and can be transferred onto a variety of substrates. Furthermore, they represent the smallest free standing periodic graphene 3D structures yet produced with a pore size of tens of nm, as analysed by electron microscopy and optical spectroscopy. We discuss generality of our methodology for the synthesis of other types of nanoscale, 3D graphene assemblies, and the transferability of this approach to other 2D materials.

  11. Influence of atomic ordering on sigma phase precipitation of the Fe{sub 50}Cr{sub 50} alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vélez, G.Y., E-mail: g.y.velezcastillo@gmail.com [Universidad del Valle, Departamento de Física, A.A. 25360 Cali (Colombia); Instituto de Física, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, avenida Manuel Nava 6, zona universitaria, 78290 San Luis Potosí, SLP México (Mexico); Pérez Alcázar, G.A. [Universidad del Valle, Departamento de Física, A.A. 25360 Cali (Colombia)

    2015-09-25

    Highlights: • σ-FeCr phase can be delayed when α-FeCr phase is ordered. • The formation of σ phase is favored by concentration gradients of α phase. • We determine the iron occupation number of the five sites of σ-Fe{sub 50}Cr{sub 50}. - Abstract: In this work we report a study of the kinetic of the formation of the σ-Fe{sub 50}Cr{sub 50} alloy which is obtained by heat treatment of α-FeCr samples with different atomic ordering. Two α-FeCr alloys were obtained, one by mechanical alloying and the other by arc-melting. Both alloys were heated at 925 K for 170 h and then quenched into ice water. Before heat treatment both alloys exhibit α-FeCr disordered structure with greater ferromagnetic behavior in the alloy obtained by mechanical alloying due to its higher atomic disorder. The sigma phase precipitation is influenced by the atomic ordering of the bcc samples: in the alloy obtained by mechanical alloying, the bcc phase is completely transformed into the σ phase; in the alloy obtained by melted the α–σ transformation is partial.

  12. Scalability of Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions to Sub-100 nm Dimensions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Abuwasib, Mohammad

    The ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) is an emerging low-power device that has potential application as a non-volatile memory and logic element in beyond-CMOS circuits. As a beyond- CMOS device, it is necessary to investigate the device scaling limit of FTJs to sub-50 nm dimensions. In addition to the fabrication of scaled FTJs, the integration challenges and CMOS compatibility of the device needs to be addressed. FTJ device performance including ON/OFF ratio, memory retention time, switching endurance, write /read speed and power dissipation need to be characterized for benchmarking of this emerging device, compared to its charge-based counterparts such as DRAM, NAND/NOR flash, as well as to other emerging memory devices. In this dissertation, a detailed investigation of scaling of BaTiO3 (BTO) based FTJs was performed, from full-scale integration to electrical characterization. Two types of FTJs with La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO) and SrRuO3 (SRO) bottom electrodes were investigated in this work namely; Co/BTO/LSMO and Co/BTO/SRO. A CMOS compatible fabrication process for integration of Co/BTO/LSMO FTJ devices ( 3x3 microm 2) was demonstrated for the first time using standard photolithography and self-aligned RIE technique. The fabricated FTJ device showed switching behavior, however, degradation of the LSMO contact was observed during the fabrication process. A detailed investigation of the contact properties of bottom electrode materials (LSMO, SRO) for BTO-based FTJs was performed. The process and thermal stability of different contact overlayers (Ti, Pt) was explained to understand the nature of the ohmic contacts for metal to SRO and LSMO layers. Noble metals-to-SRO was found to form the most stable contacts for FTJs. Based on this study, a systematic scalability study of Co/BTO/SRO FTJs was carried out from micron ( 3x3 microm2) to submicron ( 200x200 nm2) dimensions. Positive UP Negative Down (PUND) measurement confirms the ferroelectric properties of the BTO

  13. Synthesis and properties of Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/polyaniline nanocomposites as negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang Qiufen [School of Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi' an 710129 (China); School of Physics and Chemistry, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo 454000 (China); Huang Ying, E-mail: yingh@nwpu.edu.cn [School of Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi' an 710129 (China); Miao Juan [School of Physics and Chemistry, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo 454000 (China); Zhao Yang; Wang Yan [School of Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi' an 710129 (China)

    2012-10-01

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/polyaniline nanocomposite (40-50 nm) was synthesized by micro emulsion polymerization. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI exhibits lower initial irreversible capacities than Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Its capacity retains 569.2 mAh g{sup -1} after 50 cycles. - Abstract: The nanocomposites Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/polyaniline (Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI) have been synthesized by a micro emulsion polymerization method. The structure, morphology and electrochemical properties of the as-prepared materials are characterized by XRD, FTIR, Raman, XPS, TGA, TEM and electrochemical measurements. Results show that Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI nanocomposites are composed of uniform and blocky nano-sized particles (40-50 nm) with clear lattice fringes. Electrochemical measurement suggests that Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI exhibits better cycling properties and lower initial irreversible capacities than Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3} as negative electrodes materials for lithium-ion batteries. At a current density of 60 mA g{sup -1} in the voltage about 0.05-2.0 V, the initial irreversible capacity of Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI is 563 mAh g{sup -1} while it is 687.5 mAh g{sup -1} to Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}. The capacity retained of Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI (569.2 mAh g{sup -1}) is higher than that of Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3} (510.2 mAh g{sup -1}) after 50 cycles. The PANI in the Li{sub 2}SnO{sub 3}/PANI nanocomposites can buffer the released stress caused by the drastic volume variation during the alloying/de-alloying process of Li-Sn.

  14. Microstrucural characterization of gas atomized Fe{sub 73.5}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}Nb{sub 3}Cu{sub 1} and Fe{sub 97}Si{sub 3} alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Garcia-Escorial, A., E-mail: age@cenim.csic.es [CENIM-CSIC, Avda. Gregorio del Amo, 8, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Lieblich, M. [CENIM-CSIC, Avda. Gregorio del Amo, 8, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Lopez, M.; Marin, P. [Instituto de Magnetismo Aplicado, P.O. Box 155, 28230 Madrid (Spain)

    2011-06-15

    Research highlights: > Two FeSi-base alloys as precursors for small dimension soft magnets. > Small particles rapidly solidified by gas atomisation. > Increase effective magnetic anisotropy constant by alloying segregation. > Magnetic hardenning due to volume decrease. - Abstract: Powder particles of Fe{sub 73.5}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}Nb{sub 3}Cu{sub 1} and Fe{sub 97}Si{sub 3} soft magnetic alloys have been prepared by gas atomization. The gas atomized powder was microstructurally characterized and the dependence of coercivity with the composition and powder particle size investigated. As-atomized powder particles of both compositions were constituted by a bcc {alpha}-Fe (Si) solid solution. The Fe{sub 73.5}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}Nb{sub 3}Cu{sub 1} powder particles presented a grain microstructure with dendrite structure, which dendrite arms were enriched in Nb. The coercivity increased as the particle size decreased, with a minimum coercivity, of 5 Oe, measured in the Fe{sub 97}Si{sub 3} alloy in the range of 50-100 {mu}m powder particle size. The coercive fields were quite higher in the Fe{sub 73.5}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}Nb{sub 3}Cu{sub 1} than in the Fe{sub 97}Si{sub 3} powder, due to the Nb addition, which produced a phase segregation that leads to a noticeable magnetic hardening.

  15. Degradation and mineralization of organic UV absorber compound 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid (PBSA) using UV-254 nm/H{sub 2}O{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Abdelraheem, Wael H.M. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag 82524 (Egypt); Environmental Engineering and Science Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0012 (United States); He, Xuexiang; Duan, Xiaodi [Environmental Engineering and Science Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0012 (United States); NIREAS-International Water Research Center, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678 (Cyprus); Dionysiou, Dionysios D., E-mail: dionysios.d.dionysiou@uc.edu [Environmental Engineering and Science Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0012 (United States); NIREAS-International Water Research Center, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678 (Cyprus)

    2015-01-23

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • UV-254 nm/H{sub 2}O{sub 2} AOP was utilized for the degradation and mineralization of PBSA and BSA. • Promotion of k{sub obs} with [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0} ≤ 4 mM and inhibition at higher [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0} were observed. • The S and N were released and monitored as SO{sub 4}{sup 2−} and NH{sub 4}{sup +}, respectively. • Br{sup −} inhibited both the degradation and mineralization much more significantly than Cl{sup −}. • There was an increase in [NH{sub 4}{sup +}] at higher [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0} and its further destruction at higher UV fluence. - Abstract: Various studies have revealed the non-biodegradable and endocrine disrupting properties of sulfonated organic UV absorbers, directing people's attention toward their risks on ecological and human health and hence their removal from water. In this study, UV-254 nm/H{sub 2}O{sub 2} advanced oxidation process (AOP) was investigated for degrading a model UV absorber compound 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid (PBSA) and a structurally similar compound 1H-benzimidazole-2-sulfonic acid (BSA), with a specific focus on their mineralization. At 4.0 mM [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0}, a complete removal of 40.0 μM parent PBSA and 25% decrease in TOC were achieved with 190 min of UV irradiation; SO{sub 4}{sup 2−} was formed and reached its maximum level while the release of nitrogen as NH{sub 4}{sup +} was much lower (around 50%) at 190 min. Sulfate removal was strongly enhanced by increasing [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0} in the range of 0–4.0 mM, with slight inhibition in 4.0–12.0 mM. Faster and earlier ammonia formation was observed at higher [H{sub 2}O{sub 2}]{sub 0}. The presence of Br{sup −} slowed down the degradation and mineralization of both compounds while a negligible effect on the degradation was observed in the presence of Cl{sup −}. Our study provides important technical and fundamental results on the HO{sup ·} based degradation and

  16. Li{sub 2}MnSiO{sub 4} as a potential Li-battery cathode material

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dominko, R.; Bele, M.; Gaberscek, M.; Jamnik, J. [National Institute of Chemistry, P.O.B. 660, SI-1001 Ljubljana (Slovenia); Kokalj, A. [Institute Jozef Stefan, Jamova 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana (Slovenia)

    2007-12-06

    Recently we synthesized and preliminary characterized a new material for potential use in Li-battery cathodes: Li{sub 2}MnSiO{sub 4}. Although its theoretical capacity is about 330 mAh g{sup -1}, the actual measurements showed a much smaller value (about 120 mAh g{sup -1}). One of the reasons for the poor performance could be the poor electronic conductivity (<10{sup -14} S cm{sup -1} at RT) causing a huge polarization during charge-discharge. However, in the present paper we show that reducing the particle size down to the range of 20-50 nm and additional particle embedment into a carbon phase does not significantly improve the electrochemistry of Li{sub 2}MnSiO{sub 4}. Observations of structural changes during the first charge shows a complete loss of peaks when reaching the nominal composition of ca. Li{sub 1}MnSiO{sub 4}. The peaks are not recovered during subsequent cycling. It is supposed that extraction of Li causes significant structural changes so that the resulting material is only able to reversibly exchange a limited amount of Li. (author)

  17. Exchange coupling behavior in bimagnetic CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} nanocomposite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Leite, G.C.P. [Instituto de Fisica, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiaba-MT (Brazil); Chagas, E.F., E-mail: efchagas@fisica.ufmt.br [Instituto de Fisica, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiaba-MT (Brazil); Pereira, R.; Prado, R.J. [Instituto de Fisica, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiaba-MT (Brazil); Terezo, A.J. [Departamento de Quimica, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiaba-MT (Brazil); Alzamora, M.; Baggio-Saitovitch, E. [Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Fisicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150 Urca, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

    2012-09-15

    In this work we report a study of the magnetic behavior of ferrimagnetic oxide CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} and ferrimagnetic oxide/ferromagnetic metal CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} nanocomposite. The latter compound is a good system to study hard ferrimagnet/soft ferromagnet exchange coupled. Two steps were followed to synthesize the bimagnetic CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} nanocomposite: (i) first, preparation of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles using a simple hydrothermal method, and (ii) second, reduction reaction of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles using activated charcoal in inert atmosphere and high temperature. The phase structures, particle sizes, morphology, and magnetic properties of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were investigated by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Mossbauer spectroscopy (MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) with applied field up to 3.0 kOe at room temperature and 50 K. The mean diameter of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles is about 16 nm. Mossbauer spectra revealed two sites for Fe{sup 3+}. One site is related to Fe in an octahedral coordination and the other one to the Fe{sup 3+} in a tetrahedral coordination, as expected for a spinel crystal structure of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. TEM measurements of nanocomposite showed the formation of a thin shell of CoFe{sub 2} on the cobalt ferrite and indicate that the nanoparticles increase to about 100 nm. The magnetization of the nanocomposite showed a hysteresis loop that is characteristic of exchange coupled systems. A maximum energy product (BH){sub max} of 1.22 MGOe was achieved at room temperature for CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} nanocomposites, which is about 115% higher than the value obtained for CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} precursor. The exchange coupling interaction and the enhancement of product (BH){sub max} in nanocomposite CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} are discussed. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/CoFe{sub 2} nanocomposite

  18. Synthesis and characterization of rod-like ZnO decorated with γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles monolayer

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Balti, Imen, E-mail: imenbalti12@yahoo.fr [Unité de Recherche 99/UR12-30, Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Université de Carthage, 7021 Jarzouna (Tunisia); Laboratoire des Sciences des Procédés et Matériaux, LSPM, CNRS, UPR 3407, Université Paris XIII, 99 Avenue J.B. Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse (France); Smiri, Laila Samia [Unité de Recherche 99/UR12-30, Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Université de Carthage, 7021 Jarzouna (Tunisia); Rabu, Pierre [Département de Chimie des Matériaux Inorganiques, IPCMS, UMR 7504, CNRS–UDS, 23, rue du Loess, BP 43, Strasbourg Cedex 2 (France); Gautron, Eric [Institut des Matériaux Jean Rouxel (IMN)-UMR 6502, Université de Nantes, CNRS, 2 rue de la Houssinière, BP 32229, 44322 Nantes Cedex 3 (France); Viana, Bruno [LCMCP, Chimie-Paristech, UPMC, Collège de France, UMR CNRS 7574, 11 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris (France); Jouini, Noureddine [Laboratoire des Sciences des Procédés et Matériaux, LSPM, CNRS, UPR 3407, Université Paris XIII, 99 Avenue J.B. Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse (France)

    2014-02-15

    Highlights: ► Rod-like ZnO decorated with γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles have been prepared using forced hydrolysis in polyol medium. ► The system presents excellent UV photoluminescence properties along with superparamagnetic behavior. -- Abstract: Decorated rod-like ZnO particles with γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles monolayer (ZnO@γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) were prepared via a simple route using forced hydrolysis of metal acetates in a polyol medium. The phases and purity of the as-prepared particles were established by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the ZnO particles present a typical rod-like morphology with ∼80 nm diameter and ∼200–400 nm length. These nanorods are decorated with well-organized γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} spherical nanoparticles showing a narrow size distribution around 5 nm. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the bare ZnO particles show predominant UV-excitonic and weak visible emission. The latter vanishes after covering the surface with the γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles suggesting an effect on the oxygen stoichiometry at the surface of the ZnO nanorods. The decorated nanoparticles exhibit magnetic response to an external magnetic field at room temperature and a superparamagnetic character with very low blocking temperature likely related to the organisation of γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles as monolayer.

  19. The effect of doped zinc on the structural properties of nano-crystalline (Se{sub 0.8}Te{sub 0.2}){sub 100-x}Zn{sub x}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kumar, Arun, E-mail: arunkumar82@pu.ac.in [Department of Physics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, INDIA-160014. (India); Guru Nanak National College, Doraha, Panjab, INDIA-141421. (India); Singh, Harkawal; Gill, P. S. [Sri Guru Gobind Singh College, Sector-26, Chandigarh, INDIA-160026. (India); Goyal, Navdeep, E-mail: n.goyal@pu.ac.in [Department of Physics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, INDIA-160014. (India)

    2016-05-06

    The effect of metallic zinc (Zn) on the structural properties of (Se{sub 0.8}Te{sub 0.2}){sub 1-X}Zn{sub X} (x=0, 2, 6, 8, 10) samples analyzed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The presence of sharp peaks in XRD patterns confirmed the crystalline nature of the samples and is indexed in orthorhombic crystal structure. XRD studies predicts that the average particle size of all the samples are about 46.29 nm, which is less than 100 nm and hence have strong tendency of agglomeration. Williamson-Hall plot method was used to evaluate the lattice strain. The dislocation density and no. of unit cells of the samples were calculated which show the inverse relation with each other. Morphology index derived from FWHM of XRD data explains the direct relationship with the particle size.

  20. Impact of ignition temperature on particle size and magnetic properties of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles prepared by self-propagated MILD combustion technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kaliyamoorthy, Venkatesan; Rajan Babu, D., E-mail: drajanbabu@vit.ac.in; Saminathan, Madeswaran

    2016-11-15

    We prepared nanocrystalline CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} by changing its ignition temperatures, using moderate and intense low-oxygen dilution (MILD) combustion technique. The effect of ignition temperature on the particle size and its magnetic behavior was investigated by HR-TEM and VSM respectively. We observed a vast change in the structural behavior and the magnetic properties of the prepared samples. X-ray diffraction studies revealed that the resultant samples had single phase with different grain sizes from 23±5 nm to 16±5 nm, which was understood by observing the growth of the grains through heat released from the combustion reaction. FE-SEM analysis showed high porosity with heterogeneous distribution of the pore size based on the adiabatic temperature and EPMA analysis, which confirmed the elemental compositions of the prepared samples. The saturation magnetization values measured at room temperature, employing vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) decreased gradually from 50 to 34 emu/g when the ignition temperature was increased from 243 °C to 400 °C. Some of Fe ions on the B sites moved periodically to the A sites because of quenching treatment. The presence of Fe{sup 2+} ions in the existing ferrite structure ruled the magnetic behavior of the sample, as confirmed by the Mössbauer analysis. - Highlights: • CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} magnetic nanoparticles were prepared by MILD combustion technique. • Structural behavior and magnetic properties were changed by ignition temperature. • Formation of ferrite complex was confirmed by using FT-IR spectroscopy. • FE-SEM image confirmed the combustion nature by exhibiting the pores and voids. • The cationic distributions were investigated by the Mössbauer analysis.

  1. The role of the interface on the magnetic behaviour of granular Fe{sub 50}Ag{sub 50} film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fdez-Gubieda, M.L. [Dpto. Electricidad y Electronica. Universidad del Pais Vasco Apdo 644. 48080 Bilbao (Spain)]. E-mail: malu@we.lc.ehu.es; Sarmiento, G. [Dpto. Electricidad y Electronica. Universidad del Pais Vasco Apdo 644. 48080 Bilbao (Spain); Fernandez Barquin, L. [CITIMAC, Universidad de Cantabria, Avda. de los Castros s/n, 39005 Santander (Spain); Orue, I. [SGIKER, Servicios Generales de medidas magneticas, Universidad del Pais Vasco (Spain)

    2007-03-15

    The magnetic behaviour of a Fe{sub 50}Ag{sub 50} granular thin film has been studied by means of AC and DC magnetic measurements. Exchange coupling between magnetic nanoparticles appears at T=<200K decreasing the coercive field of the sample. Additionally, an exchange bias is observed at low temperature related to the existence of a spin disordered interface around the nanoparticles.

  2. Synthesis of Mg(OH)<sub>2sub>, MgO, and Mg nanoparticles using laser ablation of magnesium in water and solvents

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Phuoc, Tran X. [National Energy Technology Lab. (NETL), Pittsburgh, PA, (United States); Howard, Bret. H. [National Energy Technology Lab. (NETL), Pittsburgh, PA, (United States); Martello, Donald V. [National Energy Technology Lab. (NETL), Pittsburgh, PA, (United States); Soong, Yee [National Energy Technology Lab. (NETL), Pittsburgh, PA, (United States); Chyu, Minking K. [Univ. of Pittsburgh, PA (United States)

    2008-11-01

    Laser ablation of magnesium in deionized water (DW), solutions of DW and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) with different concentrations, acetone and 2-propanol has been conducted. The results showed that ablation in acetone and 2-propanol yielded MgO and Mg nanocrystallites as isolated particles and agglomerated chains probably intermixed with organic residues resulting from the alteration/decomposition of the solvents under the high-energy conditions. Brucite-like Mg(OH)<sub>2sub> particles were mainly produced by laser ablation of Mg in either DW or DW-SDS solutions. Ablation in DW yielded particles of fiber-like shapes having a diameter of about 5-10nm and length-as long as 150 nm. Materials produced in DW-SDS solutions were composed of various size and shape particles. Some had rough surfaces with irregular shapes. Small particles were about 20-30 nm and larger particles were about 120 nm. Particles with rodlike, triangular, and plate-like shapes were also observed.

  3. XRD and HRTEM characterization of mechanosynthesized Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C cermet

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bandyopadhyay, S. [Department of Physics, The University of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal (India); Dutta, H. [Department of Physics, Vivekananda College, Burdwan 713103, West Bengal (India); Pradhan, S.K., E-mail: skp_bu@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, The University of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal (India)

    2013-12-25

    Highlights: •Cubic Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C is formed after 50 min of milling of α-Ti, W and graphite powders. •Nanocrystalline Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C with particle size ∼11 nm is obtained after 8 h milling. •Average particle size of Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C from XRD analysis and HRTEM is very close. •Formation of Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C is hindered as compared with TiC. -- Abstract: Elemental powder mixture of titanium, tungsten and graphite is milled by high energy planetary ball mill at a fixed ball to powder mass ratio (BPMR) for different duration to produce nanosized particles of Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C hard metal. Microstructure characterization in terms of lattice imperfections and phase quantification of ball-milled samples has been done primarily by analyzing the XRD pattern and employing Rietveld method of structure and microstructure refinement. After 8 h of ball-milling full formation of Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C is noticed without any contamination of other phase or milling media. TEM study of 8 h ball-milled sample gives direct supportive evidence of structural and microstructural evaluation by XRD pattern analysis. A comparative study of microstructural changes between TiC and Ti{sub 0.9}W{sub 0.1}C helps to understand the effect of addition of W as solute in Ti–C metal matrix.

  4. Microstructural characterization and compression properties of TiC{sub 0.61}/Cu(Al) composite synthesized from Cu and Ti{sub 3}AlC{sub 2} powders

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Huang, Zhenying, E-mail: zhyhuang@bjtu.edu.cn [Institute of Material Science and Engineering, School of Mechanical and Electronic Control Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044 (China); Institut PPRIME, Département de Physique et Mécanique des Matériaux, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ENSMA, UPR 3346, SP2MI, Téléport 2 Boulevard Marie et Pierre Curie, BP 30179, F86962 Futuroscope Chasseneuil Cedex (France); Bonneville, Joel [Institut PPRIME, Département de Physique et Mécanique des Matériaux, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ENSMA, UPR 3346, SP2MI, Téléport 2 Boulevard Marie et Pierre Curie, BP 30179, F86962 Futuroscope Chasseneuil Cedex (France); Zhai, Hongxiang [Institute of Material Science and Engineering, School of Mechanical and Electronic Control Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044 (China); Gauthier-Brunet, Veronique [Institut PPRIME, Département de Physique et Mécanique des Matériaux, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ENSMA, UPR 3346, SP2MI, Téléport 2 Boulevard Marie et Pierre Curie, BP 30179, F86962 Futuroscope Chasseneuil Cedex (France); and others

    2014-07-25

    Highlights: • Submicro-layered TiC{sub 0.61}/Cu(Al) nanocomposite. • MAX phase. • High yield stress. • Deformation mechanism. - Abstract: A new submicro-layered TiC{sub 0.61}/Cu(Al) composite has been prepared by hot-pressing a mixture of 50 vol.% Ti{sub 3}AlC{sub 2} and 50 vol.% Cu powders at 1150 °C and 30 MPa. It is shown that the initial reinforcement Ti{sub 3}AlC{sub 2} particles have, after synthesis, an unusual microstructure, which consists of submicron-thick layers of TiC{sub 0.61} and Cu(Al) alloy. Both the width of the TiC{sub 0.61} and Cu(Al) layers are ∼150 nm. Thus, the Ti{sub 3}AlC{sub 2} particles are decomposed into the TiC{sub 0.61} phase, while the additional Al atoms provided by Ti{sub 3}AlC{sub 2} diffuse into the molten Cu matrix at high temperature. Compression tests were performed at constant strain rate in the temperature range 20–800 °C. The new designed TiC{sub 0.61}/Cu(Al) composite has both a high yield stress, σ{sub 0.2} measured at 0.2% strain offset, and a high ultimate compressive strength, σ{sub UCS}, which is attributed to strong interface bonding between TiC{sub 0.61} and Cu(Al) phase. For instance, at 20 and 200 °C, σ{sub 0.2} is 770 MPa and 700 MPa, while σ{sub UCS} is 1.18 GPa and 1 GPa, respectively. Plastic deformation takes place in the Cu(Al) matrix. Wavy slip lines are observed indicating that cross-slip could be the dominant deformation mechanism.

  5. Optical and magnetic properties of La{sub 1−x}Ga{sub x}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles synthesized by polymerization complex method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hunpratub, Sitchai [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Udon Thani Rajabhat University, Udon Thani 41000 (Thailand); Karaphun, Attaphol [Nanotec-KKU Center of Excellence on Advanced Nanomaterials for Energy Production and Storage, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Phokha, Sumalin [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Udon Thani Rajabhat University, Udon Thani 41000 (Thailand); Swatsitang, Ekaphan, E-mail: ekaphan@kku.ac.th [Integrated Nanotechnology Research Center, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Nanotec-KKU Center of Excellence on Advanced Nanomaterials for Energy Production and Storage, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand)

    2016-09-01

    Graphical abstract: This figure shows the hysteresis loops of LaFeO{sub 3} and La{sub 0.6}Ga{sub 0.4}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles with corresponding TEM images. Undoped sample exhibits antiferromagnetic behavior, whereas doped sample becomes ferromagnetic material. Particle sizes estimated by TEM are decreased from 70.2 ± 4.5 to 21.4 ± 8.5 nm with increasing Ga content. The decrease of particle size causes the disordering spins at the surface of particle which can induce a net magnetic moment and significantly enhance the magnetization (M), coercive field (H{sub c}) and remanent magnetization (M{sub r}). - Highlights: • Ga-doped LaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles prepared by polymerization complex were studied. • Lattice, crystallite and particle size of sample decrease with increasing Ga content. • Decreasing of the lattice can distort the structure and enhance magnetic properties. • Optical band gaps of LaGaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles are also decreased. • RT-FM of LaGaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticle is due to the disordering spins at surface particle. - Abstract: La{sub 1−x}Ga{sub x}FeO{sub 3} (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4) nanoparticles were synthesized by polymerization complex method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results reveal a pure orthorhombic phase structure. Increasing of Ga content, resulting in the decrease of average crystallite sizes calculated by XRD from 58.4 ± 5.9 to 13.4 ± 4.3 nm and the average particle sizes estimated by transmission electron microscope (TEM) images from 70.2 ± 4.5 to 21.4 ± 8.5 nm. The optical band gaps determined by UV–vis spectra showed a redshift from 2.145 to 1.954 eV that originates from surface effect caused by Ga substitution. The magnetic properties were investigated using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The room temperature hysteresis loops of La{sub 1–x}Ga{sub x}FeO{sub 3} nanopowders indicate the antiferromagnetic behavior of pure sample and all doped samples of ferromagnetic behavior with the enhancement of

  6. Simultaneous coastal measurements of ozone deposition fluxes and iodine-mediated particle emission fluxes with subsequent CCN formation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J. D. Whitehead

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available Here we present the first observations of simultaneous ozone deposition fluxes and ultrafine particle emission fluxes over an extensive infra-littoral zone. Fluxes were measured by the eddy covariance technique at the Station Biologique de Roscoff, on the coast of Brittany, north-west France. This site overlooks a very wide (3 km littoral zone controlled by very deep tides (9.6 m exposing extensive macroalgae beds available for significant iodine mediated photochemical production of ultrafine particles. The aspect at the Station Biologique de Roscoff provides an extensive and relatively flat, uniform fetch within which micrometeorological techniques may be utilized to study links between ozone deposition to macroalgae (and sea water and ultrafine particle production.

    Ozone deposition to seawater at high tide was significantly slower (v<sub>d[O>3sub>]=0.302±0.095 mm s−1 than low tidal deposition. A statistically significant difference in the deposition velocities to macroalgae at low tide was observed between night time (v<sub>d[O>3sub>]=1.00±0.10 mm s−1 and daytime (v<sub>d[O>3sub>]=2.05±0.16 mm s−1 when ultrafine particle formation results in apparent particle emission. Very high emission fluxes of ultrafine particles were observed during daytime periods at low tides ranging from 50 000 particles cm−2 s−1 to greater than 200 000 particles cm−2 s−1 during some of the lowest tides. These emission fluxes exhibited a significant relationship with particle number concentrations comparable with previous observations at another location. Apparent particle growth rates were estimated to be in the range 17–150 nm h−1 for particles in the size range 3–10 nm. Under certain conditions, particle growth may be inferred to continue to greater than 120 nm over tens

  7. Neutron powder diffraction investigation on the crystal and magnetic structure of (Ho{sub 0.50+x}Ca{sub 0.50-x})(Mn{sub 1-x}Cr{sub x})O{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Martinelli, A; Ferretti, M [SPIN-CNR, Corso Perrone 24, 16152 Genova (Italy); Castellano, C [Dipartimento di Chimica Strutturale e Stereochimica Inorganica, Universita degli Studi di Milano, Via C Venezian 21, 20133 Milano (Italy); Cimberle, M R; Masini, R [IMEM-CNR, Via Dodecaneso 33, 16146 Genova (Italy); Ritter, C, E-mail: alberto.martinelli@spin.cnr.it [Institute Laue-Langevin, 6 rue Jules Horowitz, 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France)

    2011-10-19

    The crystal and magnetic structure of (Ho{sub 0.50+x}Ca{sub 0.50-x})(Mn{sub 1-x}Cr{sub x})O{sub 3} (x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03) has been investigated between 5 and 300 K by means of neutron powder diffraction followed by Rietveld refinement and dc magnetic measurements. During cooling an orthorhombic to monoclinic phase transition occurs on account of the charge and orbital ordering taking place in the Mn sub-lattice; at low temperature phase separation takes place and the main monoclinic phase coexists with a secondary orthorhombic phase, whose amount slightly increases with the increase of Cr content. Cr{sup 3+} is not involved in orbital ordering or superexchange interactions. The charge and magnetic ordering are decoupled: the Mn moments order according to a CE-type structure in all samples. (paper)

  8. Investigation of structural and magnetic properties of Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano powders prepared by self combustion method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sudheesh, V.D.; Nehra, J.; Vinesh, A. [Department of Physics, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan (India); Sebastian, V. [Department of Physics, Nirmalagiri College, Kuthuparamba 670701, Kerala (India); Lakshmi, N., E-mail: nambakkat@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan (India); Dutta, Dimple P. [Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India); Reddy, V.R. [UGC-DAE CSR, University Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore 452001, M.P. (India); Venugopalan, K. [Department of Physics, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan (India); Gupta, Ajay [UGC-DAE CSR, University Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore 452001, M.P. (India)

    2013-02-15

    Graphical abstract: Display Omitted Highlights: ► Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} prepared by self combustion with uniform/nonuniform heating. ► Characterized using TEM, XRD, in-field Mössbauer and DC magnetometry. ► Leads to bimodal (S1) and very narrow size distribution (S2) type nano samples. ► S1 has magnetic properties of bulk Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. ► Although very even sized, S2 large magnetic anisotropy distribution. -- Abstract: Nano powders of Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} have been synthesized by the self-combustion method at a relatively low temperature of 473 K under conditions of non-uniform and uniform heating. Rietveld fitting of X-ray diffractograms confirm the formation of the pure spinel phase in both samples. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that the sample prepared under non-uniform heating has a bimodal particle size distribution (average values 16 nm and 6 nm) while the one prepared under uniform heating has a very narrow particle size distribution (average size 4 nm). Low temperature, in-field Mössbauer spectroscopic studies clearly show surface spin contributions. The hyperfine fields and Curie temperature of the non-uniformly heated sample are in good agreement with those reported for the corresponding bulk samples. Despite having a very narrow particle size distribution, the uniformly heated sample has a large anisotropy distribution which is evident in the broad transition visible in the temperature dependent magnetization curve. It is also corroborated by the fact that the experimental magnetization curve at room temperature requires two Langevin functions for satisfactory reproduction.

  9. Aerosol fluxes and particle growth above managed grassland

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    E. Nemitz

    2009-08-01

    Full Text Available Particle deposition velocities (11–3000 nm diameter measured above grassland by eddy covariance during the EU GRAMINAE experiment in June 2000 averaged 0.24 and 0.03 mm s−1 to long (0.75 m and short (0.07 m grass, respectively. After fertilisation with 108 kg N ha−1 as calcium ammonium nitrate, sustained apparent upward fluxes of particles were observed. Analysis of concentrations and fluxes of potential precursor gases, including NH<sub>3sub>, HNO<sub>3sub>, HCl and selected VOCs, shows that condensation of HNO<sub>3sub> and NH<sub>3sub> on the surface of existing particles is responsible for this effect. A novel approach is developed to derive particle growth rates at the field scale, from a combination of measurements of vertical fluxes and particle size-distributions. For the first 9 days after fertilization, growth rates of 11 nm particles of 7.04 nm hr−1 and 1.68 nm hr−1 were derived for day and night-time conditions, respectively. This implies total NH<sub>4sub>NO>3sub> production rates of 1.11 and 0.44 μg m−3 h−1, respectively. The effect translates into a small error in measured ammonia fluxes (0.06% day, 0.56% night and a large error in NH<sub>4sub>+ and NO<sub>3sub> aerosol fluxes of 3.6% and 10%, respectively. By converting rapidly exchanged NH<sub>3sub> and HNO<sub>3sub> into slowly depositing NH<sub>4sub>NO>3sub>, the reaction modifies the total N budget, though this effect is small (<1% for the 10 days following fertilization, as NH<sub>3sub> emission dominates the net flux. It is estimated that 3.8% of the fertilizer N was volatilised as NH<sub>3sub>, of which 0.05% re-condensed to form NH<sub>4sub>NO>3sub> particles within the lowest 2 m of the surface layer. This surface induced process would at least scale up to a global NH<sub>4sub>NO>3sub> formation of ca. 0.21 kt N yr

  10. Microwave synthesis of α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles and their lithium storage properties: A comparative study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mondal, Anjon Kumar, E-mail: anjonmondal@yahoo.com; Chen, Shuangqiang; Su, Dawei; Kretschmer, Katja; Liu, Hao; Wang, Guoxiu, E-mail: Guoxiu.Wang@uts.edu.au

    2015-11-05

    This work introduces a simple microwave method for the preparation of α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles with two different sizes. Both the materials were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller methods. The lithium storage properties were evaluated and compared in terms of their reversible capacity, rate capability and cycling performance. Interestingly, the electrode made of large particles (200–300 nm) show the reversible capacity of 1012 mA h g{sup −1}, better rate capability and excellent cycling stability than those of the small particles (20–30 nm). The poor electrochemical performances of small particles can be ascribed to their agglomeration during repeated charging and discharge process. The agglomeration of small particles may substantially decrease the surface area, which results in the lack of sufficient electro active sites for electrochemical reaction. - Highlights: • A microwave method was employed to prepare α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles with two different sizes. • Larger particles of α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} showed the reversible capacity of 1012 mA h g{sup −1}. • Compared to small particles larger particles presented excellent cycling stability. • Larger particles exhibited high rate capability.

  11. A Novel Synthetic Route for Green-emitting Zn{sub 2-x}Mn{sub x}SiO{sub 4} Phosphor using Colloidal Silica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kang, Seong Gu [Hoseo University, Asan (Korea, Republic of); Park, Jung Chul [Silla University, Busan (Korea, Republic of)

    2010-11-15

    We have synthesized Mn-doped Zn{sub 2}SiO{sub 4} phosphors by solgel method using colloidal silica. The adsorption characteristics of the citric acid molecules onto the silica surfaces enables us to use colloidal silica as a Si-source instead of TEOS which is generally utilized for the fine particle synthesis of the silicate based compounds. At a very low temperature (800 .deg. C), we could obtain the single phase of Zn{sub 2}SiO{sub 4}, which is remarkable compared to that of the solid state reaction (about 1300 .deg. C). The mean size of particles prepared at 800 .deg. C, 900 .deg. C, and 1000 .deg. C is 100 nm, 200 nm, and 400 nm, respectively. The PL intensity of Zn{sub 1.92}Mn{sub 0.08}SiO{sub 4} prepared at different temperature between 800 .deg. C and 1200 .deg. C, increases as the synthetic temperature rises up. Moreover, the PL intensity of Zn{sub 1.92}Mn{sub 0.08}SiO{sub 4} prepared at 1200 .deg. C is remarkable compared to that of the commercial Zn{sub 2}SiO{sub 4} : Mn (Kasei company, Japan). The PL intensity for Zn{sub 1.92}Mn{sub 0.08}SiO{sub 4} as a function of colloidal silica content, do not induces a considerable change in PL intensity, but a considerable modification in the morphology of particles. It might be said that colloidal silica is a promising chemical as a Si-source for the synthesis of fine particle of silicate compounds, instead of TEOS. The Mn{sup 2+}-doped Zn{sub 2}SiO{sub 4} phosphor has been used as a luminescent material for lamp and plasma panel display because of its high-luminescent efficiency and chemical stability. The emission of the Zn{sub 2-x}Mn{sub x}SiO{sub 4} at 520 nm is attributed to d-level spin-forbidden transition for Mn(II). According to the earlier literatures, the photoluminescence (PL) process of Zn{sub 2-x}Mn{sub x}SiO{sub 4} phosphors has been characterized by the transition of 3d{sup 5} electrons in the manganese ion acting as an activation center in the willemite structure. In particular, the transition

  12. On the mechanisms of titanium particle reactions in O{sub 2}/N{sub 2} and O{sub 2}/Ar atmospheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Andrzejak, Timothy A.; Shafirovich, Evgeny; Varma, Arvind [School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN (United States)

    2009-02-15

    Combustion of titanium particles in air may potentially be used for the in situ synthesis of nanoscale TiO{sub 2} particles, which can photocatalytically degrade chemical and biological air pollutants. The knowledge of Ti particle reactions in O{sub 2}-containing atmospheres is required to develop this method. In the present work, large ({proportional_to}3 mm) single Ti particles were heated by a laser in O{sub 2}/N{sub 2} and O{sub 2}/Ar environments. High-speed digital video recording, thermocouple measurements and quenching at different stages of the process were used for diagnostics. Analysis of the obtained temperature-time curves and quenched particles does not show a significant influence of nitrogen on the oxidation of solid Ti. In all experiments, noticeable surface oxidation started at temperatures between {proportional_to}850 and {proportional_to}950 C, leading to a sharp temperature rise at {proportional_to}1400 C. During prolonged heating at the Ti melting point (1670 C), a liquid TiO{sub 2} bead formed and, after an induction period, ejected fragments. It was shown that this phenomenon may result from an excess of oxygen in the liquid bead. Fragment ejection in O{sub 2}/N{sub 2} atmospheres was more intense than in O{sub 2}/Ar, indicating that N{sub 2} accelerates the oxidation of liquid Ti. (Abstract Copyright [2009], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

  13. Nano-grain SnO{sub 2} electrodes for high conversion efficiency SnO{sub 2}-DSSC

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Jung-Hoon; Shin, Yu-Ju [Department of Chemistry, the Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do 422-743 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Nam-Gyu [School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 440-746 (Korea, Republic of)

    2011-01-15

    The nano-grain ZnO/SnO{sub 2} composite electrode was prepared by adding 5 w% of the 200-250 nm ZnO particles to the 5 nm SnO{sub 2} colloid in the presence of hydroxypropylcellulose (M.W.=80,000). The nano-grain SnO{sub 2} electrode was obtained by removing the ZnO particles from the composite electrode using acetic acid. The FE-SEM micrographs revealed that both electrodes consisted of interconnected nano-grains that were ca. 800 nm in size, and the large pores between the grains furnished the wide electrolyte diffusion channels within the electrodes. The photovoltaic properties of the nano-grain electrodes were investigated by measuring the I-V behaviors, the IPCE spectra and the ac-impedance spectra. The nano-grain electrodes exhibited remarkably improved conversion efficiencies of 3.96% for the composite and 2.98% for the SnO{sub 2} electrode compared to the value of 1.66% for the usual nano-particle SnO{sub 2} electrode. The improvement conversion efficiencies were mainly attributed to the formation of nano-grains, which facilitated the electron diffusion within the grains. The improved electrolyte diffusion as well as the light-scattering effects enhanced the photovoltaic performance of the SnO{sub 2} electrode. (author)

  14. Nanostructure investigation of magnetic nanomaterial Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.3}Cu{sub 0.2}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} synthesized by sol-gel method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pransisco, Prengki, E-mail: prengkipransisco@gmail.com [Department of Fundamental and Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Bandar Seri Iskandar, 31750 Tronoh, Perak (Malaysia); Badan Lingkungan Hidup Derah Kabupaten Empat Lawang South of Sumatera (Indonesia); Shafie, Afza, E-mail: afza@petronas.com.my; Guan, Beh Hoe, E-mail: beh.hoeguan@petronas.com.my [Department of Fundamental and Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Bandar Seri Iskandar, 31750 Tronoh, Perak (Malaysia)

    2015-07-22

    Magnetic nanomaterial Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.3}Cu{sub 0.2}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} was successfully prepared by using sol-gel method. Heat treatment on material is always giving defect on properties of material. This paper investigates the effect of heat treatment on nanostructure of magnetic nanomaterial Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.3}Cu{sub 0.2}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. According to thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) that after 600°C there is no more weight loss detected and it was decided as minimum calcination temperature. Intensity, crystallite size, structure, lattice parameter and d-spacing of the material were investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD). High resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) was used to examine nanostructure, nanosize, shape and distribution particle of magnetic material Ni{sub 0.5}Zn{sub 0.3}Cu{sub 0.2}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} and variable pressure field emission scanning electron microscope (VP-FESEM) was used to investigate the surface morphology and topography of the material. The XRD result shows single-phase cubic spinel structure with average crystallite size in the range of 25.6-95.9 nm, the value of the intensity of the material was increased with increasing temperature, and followed by lattice parameter was increased with increasing calcination temperature, value of d-spacing was relatively decreased with accompanied increasing temperature. From HRTEM result the distribution of particles was tend to be agglomerates with particle size of 7.8-17.68 nm. VP-FESEM result shows that grain size of the material increases with increasing calcination temperature and the surface morphology shows that the material is in hexagonal shape and it was also proved by mapping result which showing the presence each of constituents inside the compound.

  15. Scintillation characteristics of nonstoichiometric phases formed in MF sub 2 -GdF sub 3 -CeF sub 3 systems Part III. Dense Gd sub 1 sub - sub x sub - sub y M sub x Ce sub y F sub 3 sub - sub x tysonite-related crystals (M=Ca, Sr)

    CERN Document Server

    Kobayashi, M; Sobolev, B P; Zhmurova, Z I; Krivandina, E A; Nikl, M

    1999-01-01

    We evaluated the scintillation characteristics and the radiation hardness of Gd sub 1 sub - sub x Ca sub x F sub 3 sub - sub x and Gd sub 1 sub - sub x Sr sub x F sub 3 sub - sub x tysonite-type solid solutions (close to 6.6 g/cm sup 3 in density) doped with Ce which were grown from the congruent melt. As the Ce concentration increased, the Ce sup 3 sup + emission at 345 nm increased to a level comparable with the Gd sup 3 sup + emission at 310 nm. Both emissions, however, were slow with the decay constant in the order of ms. The radiation hardness, which was roughly 10 sup 4 rad, tends to degrade as the wavelength decreases and/or the Ce concentration increases. Both spontaneous recovery and UV annealing of the radiation damages were significant. The intensity of the gamma-ray excited luminescence, integrated over time, was as large as 50% of that in BaF sub 2 (12% of that in CdWO sub 4). When the Ce concentration is nil or only small, the yellow-green luminescence for UV excitation was as intense as in CdWO...

  16. Bacteria-assisted preparation of nano α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} red pigment powders from waste ferrous sulfate

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Xiang; Wang, Chuankai; Zeng, Yu; Li, Panyu; Xie, Tonghui; Zhang, Yongkui, E-mail: zhangyongkui@scu.edu.cn

    2016-11-05

    Highlights: • A route to prepare nano α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} red pigment from waste ferrous sulfate is proposed. • Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is introduced for accelerating iron oxidation. • The particle size of synthetic α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} is ranged from 22 nm to 86 nm. • The prepared nano α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} red pigment fulfills ISO 1248-2006. - Abstract: Massive ferrous sulfate with excess sulfuric acid is produced in titanium dioxide industry each year, ending up stockpiled or in landfills as solid waste, which is hazardous to environment and in urgent demand to be recycled. In this study, waste ferrous sulfate was used as a second raw material to synthesize nano α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} red pigment powders with a bacteria-assisted oxidation process by Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. The synthesis route, mainly consisting of bio-oxidation, precipitation and calcination, was investigated by means of titration, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to obtain optimum conditions. Under the optimum conditions, nano α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} red pigment powders contained 98.24 wt.% of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} were successfully prepared, with a morphology of spheroidal and particle size ranged from 22 nm to 86 nm and averaged at 45 nm. Moreover, the resulting product fulfilled ISO 1248-2006, the standards of iron oxide pigments.

  17. Directed self-assembly of poly(styrene)-block-poly(acrylic acid) copolymers for sub-20nm pitch patterning

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cheng, Jing; Lawson, Richard A.; Yeh, Wei-Ming; Jarnagin, Nathan D.; Peters, Andrew; Tolbert, Laren M.; Henderson, Clifford L.

    2012-03-01

    Directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymers is a promising technology for extending the patterning capability of current lithographic exposure tools. For example, production of sub-40 nm pitch features using 193nm exposure technologies is conceivably possible using DSA methods without relying on time consuming, challenging, and expensive multiple patterning schemes. Significant recent work has focused on demonstration of the ability to produce large areas of regular grating structures with low numbers of defects using self-assembly of poly(styrene)-b-poly(methyl methacrylate) copolymers (PS-b-PMMA). While these recent results are promising and have shown the ability to print pitches approaching 20 nm using DSA, the ability to advance to even smaller pitches will be dependent upon the ability to develop new block copolymers with higher χ values and the associated alignment and block removal processes required to achieve successful DSA with these new materials. This paper reports on work focused on identifying higher χ block copolymers and their associated DSA processes for sub-20 nm pitch patterning. In this work, DSA using polystyrene-b-polyacid materials has been explored. Specifically, it is shown that poly(styrene)-b-poly(acrylic acid) copolymers (PS-b-PAA) is one promising material for achieving substantially smaller pitch patterns than those possible with PS-b-PMMA while still utilizing simple hydrocarbon polymers. In fact, it is anticipated that much of the learning that has been done with the PS-b-PMMA system, such as development of highly selective plasma etch block removal procedures, can be directly leveraged or transferred to the PS-b-PAA system. Acetone vapor annealing of PS-b-PAA (Mw=16,000 g/mol with 50:50 mole ratio of PS:PAA) and its self-assembly into a lamellar morphology is demonstrated to generate a pattern pitch size (L0) of 21 nm. The χ value for PS-b-PAA was estimated from fingerprint pattern pitch data to be approximately 0.18 which

  18. Magneto-optical and catalytic properties of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag magnetic nanocomposite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Amir, Md., E-mail: mdamir01031001@gmail.com [Department of Chemistry, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey); Bio & Nanotechnology Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University, 34452 Beyazıt/Fatih-İstanbul (Turkey); Güner, S. [Department of Physics, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey); Yıldız, A. [Department of Textile Engineering, Namık Kemal University, 59860 Çorlu-Tekirdağ, Turkey (Turkey); Baykal, A. [Department of Chemistry, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey)

    2017-01-01

    Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag magnetic nanocomposites (MNCs) were successfully synthesized by the simple reflux method for the removal of azo dyes from the industrial aqueous media. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs exhibited high catalytic activity to reduce MB within 20 min from the waste water. The obtained materials were characterized by the means of different techniques. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the single-phase of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} spinel structure. SEM and TEM analysis indicated that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs were nanoparticles like structure with small agglomeration. TG result showed that the products contained 9% of HA. The characteristic peaks of HA at 1601 cm{sup −1} and 1703 cm{sup −1} was observed by the means of FT-IR spectra of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs. The hysteresis (σ–H) curves revealed Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs exhibit a typical superparamagnetic characteristic with a saturation magnetization of 59.11 emu/g and measured magnetic moment is 2.45 µ{sub B}. The average magnetic particle dimension (D{sub mag}) is 13.25 nm. In accordance, the average crystallite and particle dimensions were obtained as 11.50 nm and 13.10 nm from XRD and TEM measurements, respectively. Magnetocrystalline anisotropy was offered as uniaxial and calculated effective anisotropy constant (K{sub eff}) is 2.96×10{sup 5} Erg/g. The blocking temperature was estimated as 522 K. The size-dependent saturation magnetization suggests the existence of a magnetically dead layer as 0.793 nm for Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs. The UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Kubelka–Munk theory were applied to determine the optical properties of powder samples. The direct optical energy band gap (E{sub g}) values were estimated from Tauc plots between 1.62 eV and 2.12 eV. - Graphical abstract: An illustration for the fabrication of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs. - Highlights: • The reduction of azo dye such Methylene Blue was instantly completed with

  19. Reversible Exsolution of Nanometric Fe<sub>2sub>O>3 sub> Particles in BaFe<sub>2-xsub>(PO>4sub>)>2sub> (0 ≤ x ≤ 2/3):The Logic of Vacancy Ordering in Novel Metal-Depleted Two-Dimensional Lattices

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Alcover, Ignacio Blazquez; David, Rénald; Daviero-Minaud, Sylvie; Filimonov, Dmitry; Huvé, Marielle; Roussel, Pascal; Kabbour, Houria; Mentré, Olivier [CNRS-UMR

    2015-08-12

    We show here that the exsolution of Fe2+ ions out of two-dimensional (2D) honeycomb layers of BaFe<sub>2sub>(PO>4sub>)>2 sub>into iron-deficient BaFe<sub>2–xsub>(PO>4sub>)>2sub> phases and nanometric α-Fe<sub>2sub>O>3sub> (typically 50 nm diameter at the grain surface) is efficient and reversible until x = 2/3 in mild oxidizing/reducing conditions. It corresponds to the renewable conversion of 12 wt % of the initial mass into iron oxide. After analyzing single crystal X-ray diffraction data of intermediate members x = 2/7, x = 1/3, x = 1/2 and the ultimate Fe-depleted x = 2/3 term, we then observed a systematic full ordering between Fe ions and vacancies (V<sub>Fe>) that denote unprecedented easy in-plane metal diffusion driven by the Fe2+/Fe3+ redox. Besides the discovery of a diversity of original depleted triangular <sub>∞>{Fe2/3+<sub>2–xsub>O>6sub>} topologies, we propose a unified model correlating the x Fe-removal and the experimental Fe/V<sub>Fe> ordering into periodic one-dimensional motifs paving the layers, gaining insights into predictive crystahemistry of complex low dimensional oxides. When we increased the x values it led to a progressive change of the materials from 2D ferromagnets (Fe2+) to 2D ferrimagnets (Fe2/3+) to antiferromagnets for x = 2/3 (Fe3+).

  20. Synthesis and study of bifunctional core–shell nanostructures based on ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Babayevska, Nataliya, E-mail: natbab@amu.edu.pl; Nowaczyk, Grzegorz; Jarek, Marcin; Załęski, Karol; Jurga, Stefan

    2016-07-05

    Bifunctional nanostructures based on ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) with controlled Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} shell thicknesses were obtained by simple low-temperature methods (sol–gel technique and seed deposition method). The morphology, nanostructure, phase and chemical composition as well as luminescent and magnetic properties of the obtained core–shell nanostructures were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, optical spectroscopy, and SQUID magnetometer. As-obtained ZnO NPs are highly monodispersed and crystalline with mean particles size distribution of about 7 nm. Modification of the ZnO NPs surface by Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} shell leads to an increase of the ZnO particles size up to 80–160 nm and the formation the Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} shell with size of 2–4 nm. The dependence of the phase composition, luminescent and magnetic properties on Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} content are also discussed. - Highlights: • The bifunctional ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures were obtained by sol–gel technique. • ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} have intensive luminescence in the visible range under 325 nm excitation. • Gd{sup 3+} content allows to control paramagnetic properties of the ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3}. • ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures are potential objects for application in medicine.

  1. Preparation and drug-loading properties of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/Poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) magnetic polymer nanocomposites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lu, Wensheng [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230039 (China); Coordination Chemistry Institute, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Chaohu University, Chaohu 238000 (China); Shen, Yuhua, E-mail: s_yuhua@163.com [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230039 (China); Xie, Anjian [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230039 (China); Zhang, Weiqiang [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230039 (China); Coordination Chemistry Institute, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Chaohu University, Chaohu 238000 (China)

    2013-11-15

    Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) magnetic polymer nanocomposites were synthesized by the dispersion polymerization method using styrene as hard monomer, acrylic acid as functional monomer, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles modified with oleic acid as core, and poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) as shell. Drug-loading properties of magnetic polymer nanocomposites with curcumin as a model drug were also studied. The results indicated that magnetic polymer nanocomposites with monodisperse were obtained, the particle size distribution was 50–120 nm, and the average size was about 100 nm. The contents of poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles in magnetic polymer nanocomposites were 74% and 24.7%, respectively. The drug-loading capacity and entrapment efficiency were 2.5% and 44.4%, respectively. The saturation magnetization of magnetic polymer nanocomposites at 300 K was 20.2 emu/g without coercivity and remanence. The as-prepared magnetic polymer nanocomposites have not only lots of functional carboxyl groups but also stronger magnetic response, which might have potential applications in drug carrier and targeted drug release.

  2. X-ray tomography studies on porosity and particle size distribution in cast in-situ Al-Cu-TiB{sub 2} semi-solid forged composites

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mathew, James; Mandal, Animesh [School of Minerals, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar (India); Warnett, Jason; Williams, Mark A. [WMG, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL (United Kingdom); Chakraborty, Madhusudan [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (India); Srirangam, Prakash, E-mail: p.srirangam@warwick.ac.uk [WMG, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL (United Kingdom)

    2016-08-15

    X-ray computed tomography (XCT) was used to characterise the internal microstructure and clustering behaviour of TiB{sub 2} particles in in-situ processed Al-Cu metal matrix composites prepared by casting method. Forging was used in semi-solid state to reduce the porosity and to uniformly disperse TiB{sub 2} particles in the composite. Quantification of porosity and clustering of TiB{sub 2} particles was evaluated for different forging reductions (30% and 50% reductions) and compared with an as-cast sample using XCT. Results show that the porosity content was decreased by about 40% due to semi-solid forging as compared to the as-cast condition. Further, XCT results show that the 30% forging reduction resulted in greater uniformity in distribution of TiB{sub 2} particles within the composite compared to as-cast and the 50% forge reduction in semi-solid state. These results show that the application of forging in semi-solid state enhances particle distribution and reduces porosity formation in cast in-situ Al-Cu-TiB{sub 2} metal matrix composites. - Highlights: •XCT was used to visualise 3D internal structure of Al-Cu-TiB{sub 2} MMCs. •Al-Cu-TiB{sub 2} MMC was prepared by casting using flux assisted synthesis method. •TiB{sub 2} particles and porosity size distribution were evaluated. •Results show that forging in semi-solid condition decreases the porosity content and improve the particle dispersion in MMCs.

  3. Control of the Shell Thickness of TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} Particles and Its Surface Functionalization

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ahn, Junho; Jung, Sung Ho; Lee, Ji Ha; Kwon, Kiyoung; Jung, Jong Hwa [Gyeongsang National Univ., Jinju (Korea, Republic of)

    2013-11-15

    TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} yolk/core shell particles were obtained by a sol-gel polymerization. The shell thickness of TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} can successfully be controlled by sol-gel reaction times. The anatase structure of TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} was more stable than that of TiO{sub 2} particles calcinated at higher temperature. Moreover, acrylate-functionalized TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} particles were also successfully synthesized using the TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} particles as building blocks by copolymerization of trimethoxysilyl groups of MPA with the existing hydroxyl groups on the surface of TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} particles. Furthermore, TEM, EDX, and FTIR studies confirmed that MPA had been successfully grafted to the surface of TiO{sub 2} SiO{sub 2} particles. Finally, we believe that the present results showing the development of surface functionalized particles can be very useful in the fields of various functional applications, and could be extended to more sophisticated hybrid materials.The fabrication of functional hollow particles is of great scientific and technological interest for purposes of applications ranging from drug delivery, coatings, photonic devices, and nanoscale reaction vessels. Various methods, including approaches such as spray drying, emulsion templating techniques, and self-assembly processes, have been described for the preparation of hollow spheres out of latex, metal, and inorganic materials.

  4. Effect of STI stress on leakage and V{sub ccmin} of a sub-65 nm node low-power SRAM

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, T-H; Fang, Y-K; Chiang, Y-T; Chiu, H Y; Chen, M-S [VLSI technology Lab., Institute of Microelectronics, EE Department, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1 University Road, Tainan, Taiwan, 701 (China); Cheng, Osbert [Central R and D Division, United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), No. 3, Li-Hsin Rd II, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan 300 (China)], E-mail: ykfang@eembox.ee.ncku.edu.tw

    2008-10-07

    In the paper, for the first time, the effects of shallow trench isolation (STI) stress enhanced boron diffusion on band-to-band (BTBT) leakage and V{sub ccmin} of a 65 nm node low-power SRAM are investigated in detail. High temperature oxidation in the STI process induces an elastic stress to enhance the diffusion of boron dopants, thus leading to a significant increase in BTBT on the STI edge sidewall. The enhanced boron diffusion is more serious for a shorter and/or narrower device, thus worsening the mismatch of the threshold voltage and V{sub ccmin} of the devices in a 65 nm node SRAM cell significantly.

  5. Validation of a particle tracking analysis method for the size determination of nano- and microparticles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kestens, Vikram; Bozatzidis, Vassili; De Temmerman, Pieter-Jan; Ramaye, Yannic; Roebben, Gert

    2017-08-01

    Particle tracking analysis (PTA) is an emerging technique suitable for size analysis of particles with external dimensions in the nano- and sub-micrometre scale range. Only limited attempts have so far been made to investigate and quantify the performance of the PTA method for particle size analysis. This article presents the results of a validation study during which selected colloidal silica and polystyrene latex reference materials with particle sizes in the range of 20 nm to 200 nm were analysed with NS500 and LM10-HSBF NanoSight instruments and video analysis software NTA 2.3 and NTA 3.0. Key performance characteristics such as working range, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, sensitivity, robustness, precision and trueness were examined according to recommendations proposed by EURACHEM. A model for measurement uncertainty estimation following the principles described in ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 was used for quantifying random and systematic variations. For nominal 50 nm and 100 nm polystyrene and a nominal 80 nm silica reference materials, the relative expanded measurement uncertainties for the three measurands of interest, being the mode, median and arithmetic mean of the number-weighted particle size distribution, varied from about 10% to 12%. For the nominal 50 nm polystyrene material, the relative expanded uncertainty of the arithmetic mean of the particle size distributions increased up to 18% which was due to the presence of agglomerates. Data analysis was performed with software NTA 2.3 and NTA 3.0. The latter showed to be superior in terms of sensitivity and resolution.

  6. Synthesis, microstructure and magnetic properties of Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3}@SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} soft magnetic composite core

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Jian, E-mail: snove418562@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Fan, Xi’an, E-mail: groupfxa@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Wu, Zhaoyang, E-mail: wustwuzhaoyang@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Li, Guangqiang [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China)

    2015-11-15

    Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3}@SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} soft magnetic composite core have been synthesized via a modified stöber method combined with following high temperature sintering process. Most of conductive Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3} particles could be uniformly coated by insulating SiO{sub 2} using the modified stöber method. The Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3}@SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles exhibited good soft magnetic properties with low coercivity and high saturation magnetization. The reaction 4Al+3SiO{sub 2}=2α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}+3Si took place during the sintering process. As a result the new Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite was formed. The Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite core displayed more excellent soft magnetic properties, better frequency stability at high frequencies, much higher electrical resistivity and lower core loss than the pure Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3} core. The method of introducing insulating layers surrounding magnetic particles provides a promising route to develop new and high compact soft magnetic materials with good magnetic and electric properties. - Graphical abstract: In Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite, Fe{sub 3}Si phases are separated by Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} layers and the eddy currents are confined in Fe{sub 3}Si phases, thus increasing resistivity and reducing core loss. - Highlights: • Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3}@SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} cores were prepared. • Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3} particles could be uniformly coated by nano-sized SiO{sub 2} clusters. • Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3}@SiO{sub 2} particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} cores showed good soft magnetic properties. • Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} had lower core loss and better frequency stability than Fe{sub 3}Si{sub 0.7}Al{sub 0.3} cores.

  7. Characterization of nano-crystalline ZrO{sub 2} synthesized via reactive plasma processing

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jayakumar, S., E-mail: sjayakumar.physics@gmail.com [Research and Development Centre, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 014 (India); Ananthapadmanabhan, P.V. [Laser and Plasma Technology Division, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai 400 085 (India); Perumal, K. [Department of Physics, Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore 641 020 India (India); Thiyagarajan, T.K. [Laser and Plasma Technology Division, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai 400 085 (India); Mishra, S.C. [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engg, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769 008 (India); Su, L.T.; Tok, A.I.Y.; Guo, J. [School of Materials Science and Engg, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639 798 (Singapore)

    2011-07-25

    Highlights: > Direct conversion of micron-sized zirconium hydride powder to nanocrystalline ZrO{sub 2} powder. > The experimental approach uses reactive plasma processing technique. > The product has been characterized by various analytical tools to support the findings. - Abstract: Nano-crystalline ZrO{sub 2} powder has been synthesized via reactive plasma processing. The synthesized ZrO{sub 2} powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FTIR spectroscopy. The synthesized powder consists of a mixture of tetragonal and monoclinic phases of zirconia. Average crystallite size calculated from the XRD pattern shows that particles with crystallite size 20 nm or less than 20 nm are in tetragonal phase, whereas particles greater than 20 nm are in the monoclinic phase. TEM results show that particles have spherical morphology with maximum percentage of particles distributed in a narrow size from about 15 nm to 30 nm.

  8. 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.

  9. Ion transport in sub-5-nm graphene nanopores

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Suk, Myung E.; Aluru, N. R.

    2014-01-01

    Graphene nanopore is a promising device for single molecule sensing, including DNA bases, as its single atom thickness provides high spatial resolution. To attain high sensitivity, the size of the molecule should be comparable to the pore diameter. However, when the pore diameter approaches the size of the molecule, ion properties and dynamics may deviate from the bulk values and continuum analysis may not be accurate. In this paper, we investigate the static and dynamic properties of ions with and without an external voltage drop in sub-5-nm graphene nanopores using molecular dynamics simulations. Ion concentration in graphene nanopores sharply drops from the bulk concentration when the pore radius is smaller than 0.9 nm. Ion mobility in the pore is also smaller than bulk ion mobility due to the layered liquid structure in the pore-axial direction. Our results show that a continuum analysis can be appropriate when the pore radius is larger than 0.9 nm if pore conductivity is properly defined. Since many applications of graphene nanopores, such as DNA and protein sensing, involve ion transport, the results presented here will be useful not only in understanding the behavior of ion transport but also in designing bio-molecular sensors

  10. Extinction, emission, and scattering spectroscopy of 5-50 nm citrate-coated gold nanoparticles: An argument for curvature effects on aggregation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Esfahani, Milad Rabbani; Pallem, Vasanta L.; Stretz, Holly A.; Wells, Martha J. M.

    2017-03-01

    The interaction of macromolecules with gold nanoparticles (GNPs) is of interest in the emerging field of biomedical and environmental detection devices. However, the physicochemical properties, including spectra, of GNPs in aqueous solution in the absence of metal-macromolecular interactions must first be considered before their activity in biological and environmental systems can be understood. The specific objective of this research was to experimentally illuminate the role of nanoparticle core size on the spectral (simultaneous consideration of extinction, emission, and scattering) versus aggregation behaviors of citrate-coated GNPs (CT-GNPs). It is difficult to find in the literature systematic simultaneous presentation of scattering, emission, and extinction spectra, including the UV range, and thus the present work will aid those who would use such particles for spectroscopic related separations or sensors. The spectroscopic behavior of CT-GNPs with different core sizes (5, 10, 30, and 50 nm) was studied in ultra-pure water at pH 6.0-6.5 employing UV-visible extinction, excitation-emission matrix (EEM), resonance Rayleigh scattering, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) spectroscopies. The CT-GNP-5 and CT-GNP-10 samples aggregated, absorbed light, and emitted light. In contrast, the CT-GNP-30 and CT-GNP-50 samples did not aggregate and did not emit light, but scattered light intensely. Multimodal peaks were observed in the intensity-based DLS spectra of CT-GNP-5 and CT-GNP-10 samples. Monomodal peaks in the volume-based DLS spectra overestimated particle diameters by 60% and 30% for the CT-GNP-5 and CT-GNP-10 samples, respectively, but underestimated diameters by 10% and 4% for the CT-GNP-30 and CT-GNP-50 samples. The volume-based DLS spectra indicated that dimer and trimer aggregates contributed most to the overall volume of particles in the 5- and 10-nm CT-GNPs, whereas the CT-GNP-30 and CT-GNP-50 samples did not aggregate. Here, we discuss the potential

  11. Particle characteristics and reduction behavior of synthetic magnetite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ramadan, Wegdan [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21511 (Egypt); Zaki, Mohamed I., E-mail: mizaki@link.net [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia 61519 (Egypt); Fouad, Nasr E.; Mekhemer, Gamal A.H. [Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia 61519 (Egypt)

    2014-04-15

    Two samples (S1 and S2) of magnetite were synthesized, using two different methods, and characterized by means of X-ray powder diffractometry, infrared and Mössbauer spectroscopy, N{sub 2} sorptiometry and electron microscopy. Particles of sample-S1 were found to be loosely agglomerated, micro-sized spheroids (200–350 nm) composed almost solely of highly aggregated (fused) crystallites (size averaged at 35 nm) of cubic-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}. In contrast, particles of sample-S2 were strongly agglomerated, nano-sized spheroids (25–30 nm) composed of slightly aggregated crystallites (size averaged at 11 nm) of cubic-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} and noncrystalline domains made-up of FeO(OH) species. Temperature-programed reduction (TPR) profiles obtained for the two samples were similar in monitoring two peaks at >450 °C assignable to a two-step reduction of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} (→FeO→Fe), but different in monitoring a peak at<450 °C only for the reduction of FeO(OH) (→Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}) contained in sample-S2. However, curve fitting analysis of the TPR profiles and molecular stoichiometry calculations based on amounts of hydrogen consumed revealed that the two-step reduction of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} is not straightforward. That is by resolving two consecutive pathways for each step and, hence, nonstoichiometric intermediate products whose composition was found to be critically controlled by the composition of the reducing gas atmosphere (5 or 80% H{sub 2}/N{sub 2}) and characteristics of the starting sample particles (chemical and phase composition, and, but to lesser extents, the agglomeration and average size). - Highlights: • Nano or micro, pure Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles are H{sub 2}-reduced in two steps (→FeO→Fe) at >450 °C. • FeO(OH)-impure particles exhibit a third reduction step (FeO(OH)→Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}) at <450 °C. • FeO disproportion and related autocatalytic effects complicate the reduction course. • Consequently, each of the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4

  12. Freeze drying synthesis of Li{sub 3}MnO{sub 4} cathode material for Li-ion batteries: A physico-electrochemical study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Surace, Yuri; Simões, Mário; Karvonen, Lassi; Yoon, Songhak; Pokrant, Simone [Laboratory Materials for Energy Conversion, EMPA – Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf (Switzerland); Weidenkaff, Anke, E-mail: weidenkaff@imw.uni-stuttgart.de [Materials Chemistry, Institute for Materials Science, University of Stuttgart, Heisenbergstrasse 3, DE-70569 Stuttgart (Germany)

    2015-09-25

    Highlights: • Facilitated synthesis of Li{sub 3}MnO{sub 4} with a smaller thermal budget via freeze drying. • Electrochemical activity enhanced by micro- and nanostructure modifications. • Capacity increase of 30% at 1st discharge versus standard synthesis process. - Abstract: Li{sub 3}MnO{sub 4}, a lithium rich phase containing manganese (V), is a promising cathode material for Li-ion batteries due to its very high theoretical capacity (698 A h kg{sup −1}). Li{sub 3}MnO{sub 4} was synthesized from freeze dried precursors at 398 K. Combined structural, morphological and chemical characterization by XRD, TGA, SEM, TEM and XPS revealed improvements in the micro- and nanostructure in comparison to the material synthesized by a standard solid state chemistry route. The average particle size decreased from 10 μm to 3.5 μm and the average crystallite size from close to 100 nm to around 30 nm. These modifications enhanced the capacity (23% at 10 A kg{sup −1} and up to 31% at 50 A kg{sup −1} with a maximum discharge capacity of 290 A h kg{sup −1}) and the rate capability.

  13. 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.

  14. Surface passivation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} via atomic layer deposition in a rotating fluidized bed reactor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Duan, Chen-Long; Deng, Zhang; Cao, Kun [State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074 (China); Yin, Hong-Feng [Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315201 (China); Shan, Bin [State Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Die and Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074 (China); Chen, Rong, E-mail: rongchen@mail.hust.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, School of Optical and Electronic Information, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430074 (China)

    2016-07-15

    Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}) nanoparticles have shown great promise in many magnetic-related applications such as magnetic resonance imaging, hyperthermia treatment, and targeted drug delivery. Nevertheless, these nanoparticles are vulnerable to oxidation and magnetization loss under ambient conditions, and passivation is usually required for practical applications. In this work, a home-built rotating fluidized bed (RFB) atomic layer deposition (ALD) reactor was employed to form dense and uniform nanoscale Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} passivation layers on Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. The RFB reactor facilitated the precursor diffusion in the particle bed and intensified the dynamic dismantling of soft agglomerates, exposing every surface reactive site to precursor gases. With the aid of in situ mass spectroscopy, it was found that a thicker fluidization bed formed by larger amount of particles increased the residence time of precursors. The prolonged residence time allowed more thorough interactions between the particle surfaces and the precursor gas, resulting in an improvement of the precursor utilization from 78% to nearly 100%, even under a high precursor feeding rate. Uniform passivation layers around the magnetic cores were demonstrated by both transmission electron microscopy and the statistical analysis of Al mass concentrations. Individual particles were coated instead of the soft agglomerates, as was validated by the specific surface area analysis and particle size distribution. The results of thermogravimetric analysis suggested that 5 nm-thick ultrathin Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} coatings could effectively protect the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles from oxidation. The x-ray diffraction patterns also showed that the magnetic core crystallinity of such passivated nanoparticles could be well preserved under accelerated oxidation conditions. The precise thickness control via ALD maintained the saturation magnetization at 66.7 emu/g with a 5 nm-thick Al{sub

  15. Low temperature synthesis of Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} nanorods and their photoluminescence

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tsai, Meng-Yen [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan (China); Instrument Technology Research Center, National Applied Research Laboratories, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan (China); Huang, Sheng-Hsin [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan (China); Perng, Tsong-Pyng, E-mail: tpperng@mx.nthu.edu.tw [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan (China); Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Chungli 320, Taiwan (China)

    2013-04-15

    Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} nanorods were synthesized using a simple reflux method. The product with 0.05 M Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} is an aggregation of short nanorods with the diameter ranging from 30 to 50 nm. If the Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} molarity was increased, the nanorods became longer and aggregated as bundles. An intense white-bluish photoluminescence (PL) was observed from these nanorods, and the PL band can be dissolved into four Gaussian peaks that are associated with the native defects. Since the PL intensity of the nanorods is comparable to that of sintered particles, this reflux method provides a time- and energy-efficient route to prepare Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} phosphor. -- Highlights: ► Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} nanorods were prepared by a simple refluxing method at low temperature without any surfactants. ► The morphologies and crystal structures of Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} growth were studied from beginning to the end (0 min to 3 h). ► The photoluminescence of Zn{sub 2}GeO{sub 4} synthesized by different methods was studied.

  16. Digestive ripening facilitated atomic diffusion at nanosize regime: Case of AuIn{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}In intermetallic nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Arora, Neha [Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012 (India); Jagirdar, Balaji R., E-mail: jagirdar@ipc.iisc.ernet.in [Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012 (India); Klabunde, Kenneth J. [Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506 (United States)

    2014-10-15

    Highlights: • A digestive ripening facilitated interatomic diffusion process is presented. • Nearly monodisperse AuIn{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}In intermetallic nanoparticles were synthesized. • Optimization of reaction temperature facilitates interatomic transfer. • Presence of excess ligand plays a crucial role in the digestive ripening process. - Abstract: Monodisperse colloidal gold–indium (AuIn{sub 2}) intermetallic nanoparticles have been synthesized from Au and In colloids using the digestive ripening process. Formation of the intermetallic proceeds via digestive ripening facilitated atomic diffusion of Au and In atoms from the Au and In nanoparticles followed simultaneously by their growth in the solution. Optimization of the reaction temperature was found to be crucial for the formation of AuIn{sub 2} intermetallic from gold and indium nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of nearly monodisperse nanoparticles of Au and AuIn{sub 2} with particle size distribution of 3.7 ± 1.0 nm and 5.0 ± 1.6 nm, respectively. UV–visible spectral studies brought out the absence of SPR band in pure AuIn{sub 2} intermetallic nanoparticles. Optical study and electron microscopy, in combination with powder X-ray diffraction established phase pure AuIn{sub 2} intermetallic nanoparticles unambiguously. The potential of such an unprecedented approach has been further exploited in the synthesis of Ag{sub 3}In intermetallic nanoparticles with the dimension of less than 10 nm.

  17. Influence of crystallite size on the magnetic properties of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Upadhyay, Sneha [Dept of Applied Science, Symbiosis Institute of Technology, SIU, Lavale, Mulshi, Pune 412 115 (India); Parekh, Kinnari [K C Patel R & D Center, Charotar University of Science & Technology, Changa 388421 (India); Pandey, Brajesh, E-mail: bpandey@gmail.com [Dept of Applied Science, Symbiosis Institute of Technology, SIU, Lavale, Mulshi, Pune 412 115 (India)

    2016-09-05

    Structural and magnetic properties of chemically synthesized magnetite nanoparticles have been studied using X-ray diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer. Magnetically the synthesized nanoparticles are ranging from superparamagnetic to multi domain state. Average crystallite size of the synthesized magnetite nanoparticles were determined using X-ray line broadening and are found to be in the range of 9–53 nm. On the other hand, the TEM images show that the size is ranging between 7.9 and 200 nm with the transition from spherical superparamagnetic particles to faceted cubic multi domain particles. Magnetic parameters of the samples show a strong dependence on average crystallite size. The ratio of coercive field at 20 K to that at 300 K (H{sub c} (20 K)/H{sub c} (300 K)) increased sharply with decrease in crystallite size. A critical crystallite diameter of order 36 nm may be inferred as boundary between single domain to multi domain transition. Zero-field-cooled (ZFC) and field-cooled (FC) measurements at 10 Oe field validate the same for smallest and largest size samples, confirming that the anisotropy energy is greater than thermal energy upto 300 K temperature. For 9 nm sample broad ZFC curve with overlapping of FC curve is observed just at 300 K, indicating the effect of strong dipolar field in superparamagnetic system. - Graphical abstract: We present our study on magnetite nanoparticles. We observed that the synthesized nanoparticles behave like single domain particles in the range of 14 nm–36 nm. They show superparamagnetic properties if particles are smaller than 14 nm and multi-domain properties when the particles are bigger than 36 nm. - Highlights: • Magnetite nanoparticles have been synthesized using chemical precipitation method. • Smaller magnetite particles below 14 nm in size are in super-paramagnetic state. • Bigger particles show multi-domain character. • Magnetite in the size range 14–36 is

  18. Influence of physical properties and chemical composition of sample on formation of aerosol particles generated by nanosecond laser ablation at 213 nm

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hola, Marketa, E-mail: mhola@sci.muni.c [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, 611 37 Brno (Czech Republic); Konecna, Veronika [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, 611 37 Brno (Czech Republic); Mikuska, Pavel [Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic v.v.i., Veveri 97, 602 00 Brno (Czech Republic); Kaiser, Jozef [Institute of Physical Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Brno University of Technology, Technicka 2896/2, 616 69 Brno (Czech Republic); Kanicky, Viktor [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, 611 37 Brno (Czech Republic)

    2010-01-15

    The influence of sample properties and composition on the size and concentration of aerosol particles generated by nanosecond Nd:YAG laser ablation at 213 nm was investigated for three sets of different materials, each containing five specimens with a similar matrix (Co-cemented carbides with a variable content of W and Co, steel samples with minor differences in elemental content and silica glasses with various colors). The concentration of ablated particles (particle number concentration, PNC) was measured in two size ranges (10-250 nm and 0.25-17 mum) using an optical aerosol spectrometer. The shapes and volumes of the ablation craters were obtained by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and by an optical profilometer, respectively. Additionally, the structure of the laser-generated particles was studied after their collection on a filter using SEM. The results of particle concentration measurements showed a significant dominance of particles smaller than 250 nm in comparison with larger particles, irrespective of the kind of material. Even if the number of particles larger than 0.25 mum is negligible (up to 0.1%), the volume of large particles that left the ablation cell can reach 50% of the whole particle volume depending on the material. Study of the ablation craters and the laser-generated particles showed a various number of particles produced by different ablation mechanisms (particle splashing or condensation), but the similar character of released particles for all materials was observed by SEM after particle collection on the membrane filter. The created aerosol always consisted of two main structures - spherical particles with diameters from tenths to units of micrometers originally ejected from the molten surface layer and mum-sized 'fibres' composed of primary agglomerates with diameters in the range between tens and hundreds of nanometers. The shape and structure of ablation craters were in good agreement with particle concentration

  19. Gap-mode-assisted light-induced switching of sub-wavelength magnetic domains

    Science.gov (United States)

    Scheunert, G.; McCarron, R.; Kullock, R.; Cohen, S. R.; Rechav, K.; Kaplan-Ashiri, I.; Bitton, O.; Hecht, B.; Oron, D.

    2018-04-01

    Creating sub-micron hotspots for applications such as heat-assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) is a challenging task. The most common approach relies on a surface-plasmon resonator (SPR), whose design dictates the size of the hotspot to always be larger than its critical dimension. Here, we present an approach which circumvents known geometrical restrictions by resorting to electric field confinement via excitation of a gap-mode (GM) between a comparatively large Gold (Au) nano-sphere (radius of 100 nm) and the magnetic medium in a grazing-incidence configuration. Operating a λ=785 nm laser, sub-200 nm hot spots have been generated and successfully used for GM-assisted magnetic switching on commercial CoCrPt perpendicular magnetic recording media at laser powers and pulse durations comparable to SPR-based HAMR. Lumerical electric field modelling confirmed that operating in the near-infrared regime presents a suitable working point where most of the light's energy is deposited in the magnetic layer, rather than in the nano-particle. Further, modelling is used for predicting the limits of our method which, in theory, can yield sub-30 nm hotspots for Au nano-sphere radii of 25-50 nm for efficient heating of FePt recording media with a gap of 5 nm.

  20. Encapsulation of aluminum phosphate nanoparticles (AiPO{sub 4}) functionalized with 3-mercapto-propyl trimethoxy-silane (MPTMS) by mini emulsion polymerization; Encapsulacao de nanoparticulas de fosfato de aluminio (AiPO{sub 4}) funcionalizadas com trimetoxsilano propil metacrilato (MPTMS) vip polimerizacao em miniemulsao

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Costa, Leticia A. da; Machado, Ricardo A.F.; Araujo, Pedro H.H. de; Sayer, Claudia, E-mail: leticia@enq.ufsc.br [Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina - UFSC, Florianopolis, SC (Brazil); Sudol, Edward D.; El-Aasser, Mohamed S. [Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pensilvania (United States)

    2011-07-01

    This work aims the use of the mini emulsion polymerization process for the attainment of a copolymer latex made of styrene butyl {eta}-acrylate (50/50) in the presence of 3 wt.% of AlPO{sub 4} with the surface chemically modified with 3-Mercapto-Propyl trimethoxy-Silane (MPTMS) in three different concentrations (5, 10 and 20 wt.% based on AlPO{sub 4}). The confirmation of the AlPO{sub 4} functionalization was made by FTIR. The encapsulation efficiency was analyzed through the density gradient column, energy dispersive X-ray and transmission electron microscopy and the average particles size and its distribution by capillary hydrodynamic fractionation. Results had shown that it was possible to encapsulate the AlPO{sub 4} and that the sample functionalized with 20 wt% of MPTMS resulted in a latex with greater density and a weight average particle size of (Dw) 116 nm. (author)

  1. Thermal stability and microstructure characterization of MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles synthesized by reverse microemulsion method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fu, Ping; Lu, Wenzhong; Lei, Wen, E-mail: lwz@mail.hust.edu.cn [Department of Electronic Science and Technology, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology - HUST, Wuhan (China); Wu, Ke; Xu, Yong [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology - WIT, Wuhan (China); Wu, Jiamin [Key Lab of Functional Materials for Electronic Information(B) MOE, HuaZhong University of Science and Technology - HUST, Wuhan (China)

    2013-11-01

    Magnesium aluminate (MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}) spinel nanoparticles were synthesized by reverse microemulsion process in cyclohexane by using two kinds of surfactants, n-amyl alcohol as cosurfactant and mixture of aluminic/magnesic salt aqueous solution as basic reagents. The effects of surfactant types and titration methods on the morphologies and sizes of the MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, TGA-DTA, XRD, HR-TEM and FT-IR. TEM images show that the particles prepared by forward titration method with SPAN-80/Triton X-100 compound emulsifier have uniform spherical shape and good monodispersity with an average size of 9.5 nm. However, the average size of the particles prepared by reverse-titration method was about 10 nm and some particles have irregular plate like appearance. The products prepared with NP-40 surfactant and forward-titration method were agglomerated with an average size of 13 nm. TGA and XRD results show that the reverse microemulsion method has dramatically lowered the calcination temperature of MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} with a degree of 700 Degree-Sign C, and the precursor can transform to single spinel phase at 900 Degree-Sign C. (author)

  2. Synthesis of sub-5 nm Co-doped SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles and their structural, microstructural, optical and photocatalytic properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Entradas, T.; Cabrita, J.F. [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and CQB, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal); Dalui, S. [Department of Physics and ICEMS, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal); Nunes, M.R. [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and CQB, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal); Monteiro, O.C., E-mail: ocmonteiro@fc.ul.pt [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and CQB, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal); Silvestre, A.J., E-mail: asilvestre@deq.isel.ipl.pt [Department of Physics and ICEMS, Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa – ISEL, R. Conselheiro Emídio Navarro 1, 1959-007 Lisboa (Portugal)

    2014-10-15

    A swift chemical route to synthesize Co-doped SnO{sub 2} nanopowders is described. Pure and highly stable Sn{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) crystalline nanoparticles were synthesized, with mean grain sizes <5 nm and the dopant element homogeneously distributed in the SnO{sub 2} matrix. The UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra of the Sn{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} samples reveal red shifts, the optical bandgap energies decreasing with increasing Co concentration. The samples' Urbach energies were calculated and correlated with their bandgap energies. The photocatalytic activity of the Sn{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} samples was investigated for the 4-hydroxylbenzoic acid (4-HBA) degradation process. A complete photodegradation of a 10 ppm 4-HBA solution was achieved using 0.02% (w/w) of Sn{sub 0.95}Co{sub 0.05}O{sub 2−δ} nanoparticles in 60 min of irradiation. - Highlights: • Synthesis of homogeneous sub-5 nm Sn{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) nanoparticles. • Samples' optical bandgap energies decrease with increasing Co concentration. • Samples' Urbach energies are calculated and correlated with their bandgap energies. • Sn{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} powders are photocatalysts for 4-hydroxylbenzoic acid degradation. • The best 4-HBA photocatalyst is the sample with composition Sn{sub 0.95}Co{sub 0.05}O{sub 2−δ}.

  3. Printed sub-100 nm polymer-derived ceramic structures.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Duong, Binh; Gangopadhyay, Palash; Brent, Josh; Seraphin, Supapan; Loutfy, Raouf O; Peyghambarian, Nasser; Thomas, Jayan

    2013-05-01

    We proposed an unconventional fabrication technique called spin-on nanoprinting (SNAP) to generate and transfer sub-100 nm preceramic polymer patterns onto flexible and rigid substrates. The dimensions of printed nanostructures are almost the same as those of the mold, since the ceramic precursor used is a liquid. The printed patterns can be used as a replica for printing second-generation structures using other polymeric materials or they can be further converted to desirable ceramic structures, which are very attractive for high-temperature and harsh environment applications. SNAP is an inexpensive parallel process and requires no special equipment for operation.

  4. Photodissociation of van der Waals clusters of isoprene with oxygen, C{sub 5}H{sub 8}-O{sub 2}, in the wavelength range 213-277 nm

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vidma, Konstantin V.; Frederix, Pim W. J. M.; Parker, David H. [Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 ED Nijmegen (Netherlands); Baklanov, Alexey V. [Institute of Chemical Kinetics and Combustion, Institutskaja Street 3, Novosibirsk 630090 (Russian Federation) and Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova street 2, Novosibirsk 630090 (Russian Federation)

    2012-08-07

    The speed and angular distribution of O atoms arising from the photofragmentation of C{sub 5}H{sub 8}-O{sub 2}, the isoprene-oxygen van der Waals complex, in the wavelength region of 213-277 nm has been studied with the use of a two-color dissociation-probe method and the velocity map imaging technique. Dramatic enhancement in the O atoms photo-generation cross section in comparison with the photodissociation of individual O{sub 2} molecules has been observed. Velocity map images of these 'enhanced' O atoms consisted of five channels, different in their kinetic energy, angular distribution, and wavelength dependence. Three channels are deduced to be due to the one-quantum excitation of the C{sub 5}H{sub 8}-O{sub 2} complex into the perturbed Herzberg III state ({sup 3}{Delta}{sub u}) of O{sub 2}. This excitation results in the prompt dissociation of the complex giving rise to products C{sub 5}H{sub 8}+O+O when the energy of exciting quantum is higher than the complex photodissociation threshold, which is found to be 41740 {+-} 200 cm{sup -1} (239.6{+-}1.2 nm). This last threshold corresponds to the photodissociation giving rise to an unexcited isoprene molecule. The second channel, with threshold shifted to the blue by 1480 {+-} 280 cm{sup -1}, corresponds to dissociation with formation of rovibrationally excited isoprene. A third channel was observed at wavelengths up to 243 nm with excitation below the upper photodissociation threshold. This channel is attributed to dissociation with the formation of a bound O atom C{sub 5}H{sub 8}-O{sub 2}+hv{yields} C{sub 5}H{sub 8}-O{sub 2}({sup 3}{Delta}{sub u}) {yields} C{sub 5}H{sub 8}O + O and/or to dissociation of O{sub 2} with borrowing of the lacking energy from incompletely cooled complex internal degrees of freedom C{sub 5}H{sub 8}{sup *}-O{sub 2}+hv{yields} C{sub 5}H{sub 8}{sup *}-O{sub 2}({sup 3}{Delta}{sub u}) {yields} C{sub 5}H{sub 8}+ O + O. The kinetic energy of the O atoms arising in two other

  5. One-step synthesis Fe{sub 3}N surface-modified Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with excellent lithium storage ability

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yabin [College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123 (China); Institute of Chemical Power Sources, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006 (China); Yan, Yuerong [Department of Science and Technology, Jiaozuo Teachers College, Jiaozuo 454000 (China); Ming, Hai, E-mail: lunaticmh@163.com [College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123 (China); Institute of Chemical Power Sources, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006 (China); Zheng, Junwei, E-mail: jwzheng@suda.edu.cn [College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123 (China); Institute of Chemical Power Sources, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006 (China)

    2014-06-01

    The Fe{sub 3}N modified Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with an excellent performance in lithium-ion batteries were prepared via a one-step and an efficient method. The layer of Fe{sub 3}N could significantly decrease the variation of volume and enhance the conductivity of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} simultaneously during the reaction of lithium ions in the charge-discharge process. There are two main advantages of this material: (1) their size distribution, ranging from 100 to 500 nm and (2) the fact that these particles are connected with each other by the Fe{sub 3}N layer. These two features allow such material to exhibit a high reversible capacity of 739 and 620 mA h g{sup −1} after each 60 cycles at the current density of 50 and 200 mA g{sup −1}, respectively. More importantly, since its introduction, this new concept of coating metal oxides with a layer of metal nitride to form core-shell structured metal oxide@metal nitride can be widely applied in the fields of catalysis, electrochemistry, energy, environmental and materials science with improved performance.

  6. Static and dynamic magnetic properties of CoPt{sub 3}. Nanoparticles in comparison with bulk matter; Statische und dynamische magnetische Eigenschaften von CoPt{sub 3}. Nanopartikel im Vergleich zum Volumenmaterial

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Raeder, C.

    2006-09-22

    In this work the structural and magnetic characteristics of CoPt{sub 3}-particles are examined. In particular the determination of the g-factor is of interest as well as the damping behavior of the magnetization vector under influence of a microwave radiation. Moreover the magnetic anisotropy energy density of individual particles is covered by the presented thesis. The particles exist in the chemically disordered phase. They are monocrystalline and monodisperse with a mean diameter of d=4.04 nm and a width of the size distribution of {sigma}=0.15, as determined by transmission electron microscopy. Moreover the particles are embedded into a polymer with high dilution (0.08 vol%). To compare the results for the particles CoPt{sub 3} films and bulk-material are prepared and examined with the same procedure. X-ray diffraction (XRD) shows that all three sample systems are an alloy and do not appear as cobalt clusters embedded in platinum. The lattice constant of the particles is increased by 0.5% in comparison to the bulk material (a{sub NP}=0.388{+-}0.003 nm). The evaluation of the peak widths of the XRD experiments exhibit a crystalline size of 95.5{+-}6.5 nm of the films and 48.5{+-}6.5 nm of the bulk material. The evaluation of the relative intensities of (111)- and (200)-peaks points the fact that both the film and the particles preferentially grow in the (111)-direction. The films are polycrystalline in the film-plane. From magnetic resonance measurements the g-factor and the damping constant {alpha} is extracted. The measurement shows that both the g-factor (about 2%) and the damping-constant {alpha} (about 125%) is increased in comparison to the film, and/or bulk material. For the films M{sub eff} is determined from angle-dependent resonance-field measurements. From the temperature dependence of the resonance field the magnetic anisotropy is determined. Because of the fact that the measurements could be done only to a minimum of 50 K the value of the anisotropy

  7. Magnetic BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} nanofiber filter for effective separation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles and removal of arsenic

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Byun, Jeehye; Patel, Hasmukh A.; Yavuz, Cafer T., E-mail: yavuz@kaist.ac.kr [Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Graduate School of EEWS (Korea, Republic of)

    2014-12-15

    Magnetic nanoparticles are promising in applications where magnetic separation is intended, although material losses via leaching mechanisms are often inevitable. Magnetic separations with widely available permanent magnets can effectively trap particles, leading to a complete removal of used or waste particles. In this report, we first demonstrate the synthesis of the thinnest (112.7 ± 16.4 nm) and most magnetic (71.96 emu g{sup −1}) barium hexaferrite (BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}, BHF—fridge magnet) via an organic solvent-free electrospinning procedure. When the fibers are then packed into a column, they clearly remove 12 nm magnetite (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}) nanoparticles quantitatively. The same BHF cartridge also removes more than 99.9 % As-treated magnetite nanoparticles at capacities up to 70 times of its weight. As a result, one liter of 150 μg L{sup −1} As-contaminated water can be purified rapidly at a material cost of less than 2 US cents.

  8. Comparative Study by MS and XRD of Fe{sub 50}Al{sub 50} Alloys Produced by Mechanical Alloying, Using Different Ball Mills

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rojas Martinez, Y., E-mail: yarojas@ut.edu.co [University of Tolima, Department of Physics (Colombia); Perez Alcazar, G. A. [University of Valle, Department of Physics (Colombia); Bustos Rodriguez, H.; Oyola Lozano, D., E-mail: doyolalozano@yahoo.com.mx [University of Tolima, Department of Physics (Colombia)

    2005-02-15

    In this work we report a comparative study of the magnetic and structural properties of Fe{sub 50}Al{sub 50} alloys produced by mechanical alloying using two different planetary ball mills with the same ball mass to powder mass relation. The Fe{sub 50}Al{sub 50} sample milled during 48 h using the Fritsch planetary ball mill pulverisette 5 and balls of 20 mm, presents only a bcc alloy phase with a majority of paramagnetic sites, whereas that sample milled during the same time using the Fritsch planetary ball mill pulverisette 7 with balls of 15 mm, presents a bcc alloy phase with paramagnetic site (doublet) and a majority of ferromagnetic sites which include pure Fe. However for 72 h of milling this sample presents a bcc paramagnetic phase, very similar to that prepared with the first system during 48 h. These results show that the conditions used in the first ball mill equipment make more efficient the milling process.

  9. Electrodeposition of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} layer from solution of Fe{sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 3} with addition ethylene glycol

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dahlan, Dahyunir, E-mail: dahyunir@yahoo.com; Asrar, Allan [Department of Physics, Andalas University, Limau Manih Padang 25163, West Sumatera (Indonesia)

    2016-03-11

    The electrodeposition of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} layer from the solution Fe{sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 3} with the addition of ethylene glycol on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrate has been performed. The electrodeposition was carried out using a voltage of 5 volts for 120 seconds, with and without the addition of 2% wt ethylene glycol. Significant effects of temperature on the resulting the samples is observed when they are heated at 400 °C. Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) shows that all samples produce a layer of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} with particle size less than 50 nanometers. The addition of ethylene glycol and the heating of the sample causes a shrinkage in particle size. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization shows that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} layer resulting from the process of electrodeposition of Fe{sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 3} without ethylene glycol, independent of whether the sample is heated or not, is uneven and buildup. Layer produced by the addition of ethylene glycol without heating produces spherical particles. On contrary, when the layer is heated the spherical particles transform to irregularly-shaped particles with smaller size.

  10. RapidNano: towards 20nm Particle Detection on EUV Mask Blanks

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Donck, J.C.J. van der; Bussink, P.G.W.; Fritz, E.C.; Walle, P. van der

    2016-01-01

    Cleanliness is a prerequisite for obtaining economically feasible yield levels in the semiconductor industry. For the next generation of lithographic equipment, EUV lithography, the size of yield-loss inducing particles for the masks will be smaller than 20 nm. Consequently, equipment for handling

  11. Synthesis, structure, and luminescence properties of In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7}/SnO{sub 2} core-shell nanowires

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Park, Sunghoon; An, Soyeon; Jin, Changhyun; Lee, Chongmu [Inha University, Incheon (Korea, Republic of)

    2012-09-15

    In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7}/SnO{sub 2} core-shell nanowires were synthesized by using a two-step process: thermal evaporation of a mixture of In and Ge powders and atomic layer deposition of SnO{sub 2}. The core-shell nanowires were characterized using by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7} cores in these core-shell nanowires varied from 50 to 100 nanometers in diameter and up to a few hundreds of micrometers in length, and the SnO{sub 2} shell layer thickness ranged from 5 to 15 nm. Photoluminescence measurements showed that the In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7} nanowires had a weak broad violet emission band centered at approximately 405 nm. In contrast, the In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7}/SnO{sub 2} core-shell nanowires had a taller blue-violet emission peak at approximately 440 nm. The optimum shell layer thickness of the In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7}/SnO{sub 2} core-shell nanowires for the highest PL intensity was found to be 15 nm. Our results also showed that the intensity of the blue-violet emission was increased further by thermal annealing in an Ar atmosphere. The origins of the change on and the enhancement of the luminescence of the In{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 7} nanowires by SnO{sub 2} coating and annealing are discussed.

  12. Synthesis and characterization of water-soluble SiO{sub 1.5}/TiO{sub 2} hybrid nanoparticles by hydrolytic co-condensation of triethoxysilane containing hydroxyl groups

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mori, Hideharu [Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa 992-8510 (Japan)], E-mail: h.mori@yz.yamagata-u.ac.jp; Miyamura, Yasushi [Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa 992-8510 (Japan); Endo, Takeshi [Molecular Engineering Institute, Kinki University, Iizuka, Fukuoka 820-8555 (Japan)

    2009-05-15

    Novel R-SiO{sub 1.5}/TiO{sub 2} hybrid nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrolytic co-condensation of titanium alkoxides (Ti(OR'){sub 4}, R' = ethyl, isopropyl, and butyl) with a triethoxysilane precursor, R-Si(OCH{sub 2}CH{sub 3}){sub 3}, R = -CH{sub 2}CH{sub 2}CH{sub 2}N(CH{sub 2}CH{sub 2}COOCH{sub 2}CH{sub 2}OH){sub 2}, derived from 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate. Co-condensation of a titanium alkoxide with the triethoxysilane precursor was investigated at different feed ratios, suggesting that water-soluble nanoparticles were obtained only at less than 30% of Ti(OEt){sub 4} molar ratio in the feed. In contrast, the co-condensation of titanium tetraisopropoxide, Ti(O{sup i}Pr){sub 4}, with the triethoxysilane precursor in the presence of acetylacetone proceeded as a homogeneous system until 70% of Ti(O{sup i}Pr){sub 4} molar ratio to afford water-soluble organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles containing titania-silica mixed oxides, as confirmed by NMR, FT-IR, elemental and ICP analyses. Scanning force microscopy (SFM) measurements of the product prepared at Ti(O{sup i}Pr){sub 4}/triethoxysilane = 50/50 mol% with acetylacetone indicated the formation of the nanoparticles having relatively narrow size distribution with average particle diameter less than 2.0 nm without aggregation. The refractive index of the hybrid nanoparticle was 1.571. The isolated nanoparticles distributed homogeneously were visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the size of the hybrid nanoparticle (1.9 nm) was determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD)

  13. Phase transformations in the rapidly solidified Ti{sub 40}Zr{sub 20}Hf{sub 20}Pd{sub 20} alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, N. [Division of Engineering Materials, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China); Yao Kefu [Division of Engineering Materials, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China)], E-mail: kfyao@tsinghua.edu.cn; Louzguine-Luzgin, D.V. [Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Katahira 2-1-1, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8577 (Japan); Qiu Shengbao [Division of Engineering Materials, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China); Ranganathan, S. [Department of Metallurgy, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012 (India); Inoue, A. [Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Katahira 2-1-1, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8577 (Japan)

    2007-10-15

    We report that an approximant phase was initially obtained in amorphous Ti{sub 40}Zr{sub 20}Hf{sub 20}Pd{sub 20} alloy. In the initial stage of the devitrification process, the approximant phase transforms into an icosahedral (I) phase with a high thermal stability while the cF96 Zr{sub 2}Ni-type (space group Fd3-bar m with a=1.25nm and 96 atoms cell{sup -1}) particles precipitate from the amorphous matrix. Eventually the I phase grows to several hundred nanometers when annealed at about 1000K and then transforms into the Zr{sub 2}Ni-type phase with an endothermic reaction.

  14. Hydrothermally synthesised Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles as catalyst precursors for the CVD production of graphitic nanofibres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Edwards, H K [School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Evans, E [School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); McCaldin, S [School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Blood, P [School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Gregory, D H [School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Poliakoff, M [School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Lester, E [School of Chemical Engineering and Mining Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Walker, G S [School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom); Brown, P D [School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD (United Kingdom)

    2006-02-22

    Graphitic nanofibres (GNFs) have been grown by chemical vapour deposition at 500 deg. C and 700 deg. C, using 6 nm and 20 nm particles of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} produced by supercritical water hydrothermal synthesis (scWHS). The morphologies of catalyst and GNFs have been examined using the combined techniques of conventional transmission electron microscopy, high resolution electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction and powder X-ray diffraction. GNF production varied from well ordered nanofibres with an average diameter of 100 nm, to very large, disordered fibres with diameters ranging from 500 nm to {approx}2 {mu}m. Larger fibres were found to have a compound structure composed of discreet domains of graphite and multiwall nanotubes. 20 nm particles produced by scWHS were associated with significant increases in the yield of GNFs as compared with traditional catalyst precipitation routes.

  15. Growth behavior of LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles formed by solid-state reactions in air and water vapor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kozawa, Takahiro, E-mail: t-kozawa@jwri.osaka-u.ac.jp [Joining and Welding Research Institute, Osaka University, 11–1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 (Japan); Yanagisawa, Kazumichi [Research Laboratory of Hydrothermal Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kochi University, 2–5-1 Akebono-cho, Kochi 780-8520 (Japan); Murakami, Takeshi; Naito, Makio [Joining and Welding Research Institute, Osaka University, 11–1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 (Japan)

    2016-11-15

    Morphology control of particles formed during conventional solid-state reactions without any additives is a challenging task. Here, we propose a new strategy to control the morphology of LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles based on water vapor-induced growth of particles during solid-state reactions. We have investigated the synthesis and microstructural evolution of LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles in air and water vapor atmospheres as model reactions; LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} is used as a low-cost cathode material for lithium-ion batteries. By using spherical MnCO{sub 3} precursor impregnated with LiOH, LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} spheres with a hollow structure were obtained in air, while angulated particles with micrometer sizes were formed in water vapor. The pore structure of the particles synthesized in water vapor was found to be affected at temperatures below 700 °C. We also show that the solid-state reaction in water vapor is a simple and valuable method for the large-scale production of particles, where the shape, size, and microstructure can be controlled. - Graphical abstract: This study has demonstrated a new strategy towards achieving morphology control without the use of additives during conventional solid-state reactions by exploiting water vapor-induced particle growth. - Highlights: • A new strategy to control the morphology of LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles is proposed. • Water vapor-induced particle growth is exploited in solid-state reactions. • The microstructural evolution of LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles is investigated. • The shape, size and microstructure can be controlled by solid-state reactions.

  16. Synthesis and photoluminescent properties of Sr{sub (1−x)}Si{sub 2}O{sub 2}N{sub 2}: xEu{sup 2+} phosphor prepared by polymer metal complex method for WLEDs applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hassan, Dhia A., E-mail: dhia_hassan@yahoo.com [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Department of Chemistry, College of Education for Pure Science, University of Basrah, Basrah 61004 (Iraq); Xu, Jian; Chen, Yibin; Li, Langkai [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Zeng, Renjie, E-mail: rjzeng@xmu.edu.cn [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Fujian Key Lab of Advanced Special Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China)

    2016-07-15

    Highlights: • SrSi{sub 2}O{sub 2}N{sub 2}: Eu{sup 2+} phosphor was prepared by polymer metal complex (pechini method). • The annealing time was decreased from 6 h in solid state method to 3 h. • The particles are crystalline and dispersed well with average size 6.5 μm. - Abstract: Green emitting Sr{sub (1−x)}Si{sub 2}O{sub 2}N{sub 2}: xEu{sup 2+} (x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08 and 0.1) phosphors were synthesized by polymer metal complex or pechini method. The XRD results confirm the formation of a pure phase at 1400 °C for 3 h. The SEM and particles size results indicate that the prepared phosphor consists of a polyhedral crystalline shape with well dispersed and the average particle size around 6.5 μm. The maximum PL intensity was found at 0.04% Eu{sup 2+} with a wide emission band between 460 and 640 nm and a green emission peak at 531.4 nm. The external quantum efficiency of 0.04% Eu{sup 2+} sample was 43.13%. The results indicate that pechini method is an alternative way and close in efficiency to the solid state method to prepare SrSi{sub 2}O{sub 2}N{sub 2} phosphor with higher homogeneity and more uniform size distribution for near UV and blue region applications for white light emitting diodes WLEDs.

  17. Phase formation, morphology and magnetic properties of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles synthesized by hydrothermal technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nonkumwong, Jeeranan [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand); Ananta, Supon [Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand); Jantaratana, Pongsakorn [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 11900 (Thailand); Phumying, Santi; Maensiri, Santi [Advanced Materials Physics Laboratory (Amp.), School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000 (Thailand); Srisombat, Laongnuan, E-mail: slaongnuan@yahoo.com [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand)

    2015-05-01

    In the present work, the processing conditions for obtaining monodispersed magnesium ferrite (MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) nanoparticles with the desired morphology and relatively high saturation magnetization via hydrothermal technique were developed. For the first time, the effects of base type and reaction conditions (i.e. temperature and time) on phase formation, morphology and magnetic properties of the obtained products were determined by using a combination of XRD, TEM/EDX and VSM techniques. It is seen that the saturation magnetization of the particles can be increased by employing lower reaction temperature and/or shorter reaction time, while narrow size distribution of the particles can be maintained. In addition, it was found that pure phase of superparamagnetic MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with the smallest size of about 65 nm was obtained by using CH{sub 3}COONa as a base at 180 °C for 14 h. - Highlights: • Preparation of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles by hydrothermal method. • Effects of base and reaction conditions on formation and morphology MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles. • Producing the 65 nm MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with superparamagnetic property.

  18. Synthesis, characterization and hemolysis studies of Zn{sub (1−x)}Ca{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites synthesized by sol-gel for hyperthermia treatment applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jasso-Terán, Rosario Argentina, E-mail: arg.jasso@gmail.com; Cortés-Hernández, Dora Alicia; Sánchez-Fuentes, Héctor Javier; Reyes-Rodríguez, Pamela Yajaira; León-Prado, Laura Elena de; Escobedo-Bocardo, José Concepción; Almanza-Robles, José Manuel

    2017-04-01

    The synthesis of Zn{sub (1−x)}Ca{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles, x=0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.0, was performed by sol-gel method followed by a heat treatment at 400 °C for 30 min. These ferrites showed nanometric sizes and nearly superparamagnetic behavior. The Zn{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} and CaFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites presented a size within the range of 12–14 nm and appropriate heating ability for hyperthermia applications. Hemolysis testing demonstrated that Zn{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite was not cytotoxic when using 10 mg of ferrite/mL of solution. According to the results obtained, Zn{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} is a potential material for cancer treatment by magnetic hyperthermia therapy. - Highlights: • The synthesis of Zn{sub (1−x)}Ca{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites was performed by sol-gel method. • CaFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} and Zn{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.}50Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites showed heating ability. • The Zn{sub 0.50}Ca{sub 0.50}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite demonstrated to be no hemolytic.

  19. Highly flexible sub-1 nm tungsten oxide nanobelts as efficient desulfurization catalysts.

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Jie; Liu, Huiling; Xu, Biao; Wang, Xun

    2015-03-01

    Ultrathin tungsten oxide nanobelts are successfully synthesized via a facile solvothermal method. Sub-1 nm thickness and hydrophobic surface property endow the nanobelts with flexibility, viscosity, gelation, and good catalytic performance in oxidative desulfurization. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  20. Production, characterization and application of Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Er{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles as radiosensitizers in radiotherapy beams; Produção, caracterização e aplicação de nanopartículas de Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} e Er{sub 2}O{sub 3} como radiossensibilizadores em feixes de radioterapia

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Corrêa, Eduardo de Lima

    2017-07-01

    In this study Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Er{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles were produced for application as radiosensitizers in radiotherapy beams. They were synthesized at the Hyperfine Interactions Laboratory, IPEN, using thermal decomposition method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, to verify crystalline structure, transmission electron microscopy, to obtain information about shape, size and size distribution, neutron activation analysis, whereby it was possible to determine samples purity and gadolinium and erbium concentration. Magnetization and perturbed γ-γ angular correlation (PAC) measurements were performed in order to study particles magnetic behavior and quadrupole interactions, respectively. Characterization results showed a bixbyite structure, 5 nm diameter post-synthesis particles with narrow size distribution. Rare-earth mass determination in each sample was important to perform normalization in magnetic susceptibility measurements, making possible the view of a high magnetization under 30 K for post-synthesis samples, what was not observed in larger particles, together with an effective magnetic moment enhancement for nanoparticles, not seen in bulk samples, and a change in the antiferromagnetic ordering temperature for Er{sub 2}O{sub 3}. PAC spectroscopy results show possible surface effects. The absence of a well-defined frequency in 5 nm samples indicates the amount of {sup 111}In({sup 111}Cd) at particle surface is bigger than in the core, resulting in a non-evident hyperfine interaction between the probe nuclei and the host. The X-ray diffraction and PAC spectroscopy joint was vital to understand the particles structural damage caused by {sup 60}Co irradiation. About radiosensitizer measurements a dose enhancement factor (DEF) of up to 1,67 and 1,09 for Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles under {sup 60}Co and 6MV irradiation, respectively, were observed. Under same conditions DEF values of up to 1,37 and 1,06 were found for Er{sub 2}O{sub 3

  1. Sol–gel hybrid membranes loaded with meso/macroporous SiO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5} and SiO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5} materials with high proton conductivity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Castro, Yolanda, E-mail: castro@icv.csic.es [Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICV-CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Mosa, Jadra, E-mail: jmosa@icv.csic.es [Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICV-CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Aparicio, Mario [Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICV-CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Pérez-Carrillo, Lourdes A.; Vílchez, Susana; Esquena, Jordi [Instituto de Química Avanzada de Cataluña, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQAC-CSIC), CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona (Spain); Durán, Alicia [Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (ICV-CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid (Spain)

    2015-01-15

    In this work, highly conductive hybrid organic–inorganic membranes loaded with SiO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5} and SiO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5} meso/macroporous particles were prepared via a sol–gel process. Meso/macroporous particles were incorporated to hybrid membranes, for improving water retention and enhancing electrochemical performance. These particles with a polymodal pore size distribution were prepared by templating in highly concentrated emulsions, the particles showed a specific surface area between 50 m{sup 2}/g (TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5}) and 300 m{sup 2}/g (SiO{sub 2}–TiO{sub 2}–P{sub 2}O{sub 5}). The particles were dispersed in a hybrid silica sol and further sprayed onto glass paper. The films were polymerized and sintered; those loaded with meso/macroporous particles had a homogenous distribution. High temperature proton conductivity measurements confirmed a high water retention. Conductivity of these materials is higher than that of Nafion{sup ®} at higher temperatures (120 °C) (2·10{sup −2} S/cm). This study provides processing guideline to achieve hybrid electrolytes for efficient conduction of protons due to their high surface area and porous structure. - Highlights: • Hybrid electrolyte with meso/macroporous particles were synthesized by sol–gel. • Depositions of hybrid solutions by spraying onto glass substrates were performed. • Proton conductivity was evaluated as a function of composition and porous structure.

  2. Pseudorapidity distributions of charged particles in Pb-Pb collisions at super proton synchrotron energies from the NA50 experiment

    CERN Document Server

    Idzik, M; Alessandro, B; Alexa, C; Arnaldi, R; Atayan, M; Baglin, C; Baldit, A; Bedjidian, Marc; Beolè, S; Boldea, V; Bordalo, P; Borges, G; Bussière, A; Capelli, L; Castanier, C; Castor, J I; Chaurand, B; Chevrot, I; Cheynis, B; Chiavassa, E; Cicalò, C; Claudino, T; Comets, M P; Constans, N; Constantinescu, S; Cortese, P; De Falco, A; De Marco, N; Dellacasa, G; Devaux, A; Dita, S; Drapier, O; Ducroux, L; Espagnon, B; Fargeix, J; Force, P; Gallio, M; Gavrilov, Yu K; Gerschel, C; Giubellino, P; Golubeva, M B; Gonin, M; Grigorian, A A; Grigorian, S; Grossiord, J Y; Guber, F F; Guichard, A; Gulkanian, H R; Hakobyan, R S; Haroutunian, R; Jouan, D; Karavitcheva, T L; Kluberg, L; Kurepin, A B; Le Bornec, Y; Lourenço, C; MacCormick, M; Macciotta, P; Marzari-Chiesa, A; Masera, M; Masoni, A; Monteno, M; Musso, A; Petiau, P; Piccotti, A; Pizzi, J R; Prado da Silva, W L; Prino, F; Puddu, G; Quintans, C; Ramello, L; Ramos, S; Rato-Mendes, P; Riccati, L; Romana, A; Santos, H; Saturnini, P; Scalas, E; Scomparin, E; Serci, S; Shahoyan, R; Sigaudo, F; Silva, S; Sitta, M; Sonderegger, P; Tarrago, X; Topilskaya, N S; Usai, G L; Vercellin, Ermanno; Villatte, L; Willis, N

    2003-01-01

    We present the measurements of charged particle pseudorapidity distributions dN/sub ch//d eta performed by the NA50 experiment in Pb-Pb collisions at the CERN SPS. Measurements were done at incident energies of 40 GeV ( square root s = 8.77 GeV) and 158 GeV ( square root s = 17.3 GeV) per nucleon over a broad impact parameter range. The multiplicity distributions are studied as a function of centrality using the number of participating nucleons (N/sub part/), or the number of binary nucleon-nucleon collisions (N/sub coll/). Their values at midrapidity exhibit a linear scaling with N/sub part/ at both energies. Particle yield increases approximately by a factor of 2 between square root s = 8.77 GeV and square root s = 17.3 GeV. (5 refs).

  3. Interactions between sub-10-nm iron and cerium oxide nanoparticles and 3T3 fibroblasts: the role of the coating and aggregation state

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Safi, M; Sarrouj, H; Berret, J-F [Matiere et Systemes Complexes, UMR 7057 CNRS, Universite Denis Diderot Paris VII, Batiment Condorcet, 10 rue Alice Domon et Leonie Duquet, F-75205 Paris (France); Sandre, O [UPMC Universite Paris VI-Laboratoire de Physico-chimie des Electrolytes, Colloides et Sciences Analytiques, UMR 7195 UPMC Universite Paris 6/CNRS/ESPCI Paristech, 4 place Jussieu, F-75252 Paris Cedex 05 (France); Mignet, N, E-mail: jean-francois.berret@univ-paris-diderot.fr [CNRS UMR 8151, Faculte de Pharmacie, 4 avenue de l' Observatoire, F-75270 Paris (France)

    2010-04-09

    Recent nanotoxicity studies revealed that the physico-chemical characteristics of engineered nanomaterials play an important role in the interactions with living cells. Here, we report on the toxicity and uptake of cerium and iron oxide sub-10-nm nanoparticles by NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Coating strategies include low-molecular weight ligands (citric acid) and polymers (poly(acrylic acid), M{sub W} = 2000 g mol{sup -1}). Electrostatically adsorbed on the surfaces, the organic moieties provide a negatively charged coating in physiological conditions. We find that most particles were biocompatible, as exposed cells remained 100% viable relative to controls. Only the bare and the citrate-coated nanoceria exhibit a slight decrease in mitochondrial activity at very high cerium concentrations (>1 g l{sup -1}). We also observe that the citrate-coated particles are internalized/adsorbed by the cells in large amounts, typically 250 pg/cell after 24 h incubation for iron oxide. In contrast, the polymer-coated particles are taken up at much lower rates (<30 pg/cell). The strong uptake shown by the citrated particles is related to the destabilization of the dispersions in the cell culture medium and their sedimentation down to the cell membranes. In conclusion, we show that the uptake of nanomaterials by living cells depends on the coating of the particles and on its ability to preserve the colloidal nature of the dispersions.

  4. Basic characteristics of atmospheric particles, trace gases and meteorology in a relatively clean Southern African Savannah environment

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    L. Laakso

    2008-08-01

    Full Text Available We have analyzed one year (July 2006–July 2007 of measurement data from a relatively clean background site located in dry savannah in South Africa. The annual-median trace gas concentrations were equal to 0.7 ppb for SO<sub>2sub>, 1.4 ppb for NO<sub>x>, 36 ppb for O<sub>3sub> and 105 ppb for CO. The corresponding PM<sub>1sub>, PM<sub>2.5sub> and PM<sub>10sub> concentrations were 9.0, 10.5 and 18.8 μg m−3, and the annual median total particle number concentration in the size range 10–840 nm was 2340 cm−3. During Easterly winds, influence of industrial sources approximately 150 km away from the measurement site was clearly visible, especially in SO<sub>2sub> and NO<sub>x> concentrations. Of gases, NO<sub>x> and CO had a clear annual, and SO<sub>2sub>, NO<sub>x> and O<sub>3sub> clear diurnal cycle. Atmospheric new-particle formation was observed to take place in more than 90% of the analyzed days. The days with no new particle formation were cloudy or rainy days. The formation rate of 10 nm particles varied in the range of 0.1–28 cm−3 s−1 (median 1.9 cm−3 s−1 and nucleation mode particle growth rates were in the range 3–21 nm h−1 (median 8.5 nm h−1. Due to high formation and growth rates, observed new particle formation gives a significant contribute to the number of cloud condensation nuclei budget, having a potential to affect the regional climate forcing patterns.

  5. Microwave-assisted rapid synthesis of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF hybrid for high efficient As(V) removal

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Huiyun; Lv, Kangle; Du, Ying; Ye, Hengpeng; Du, Dongyun, E-mail: dydu666@mail.scuec.edu.cn

    2016-07-25

    In this paper, an efficient adsorbent, iron-modified activated carbon fiber (Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF), was rapidly fabricated by microwave-assisted heating treatment strategy, which is used to remove As(V) from simulated wastewater. The adsorbent was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), TEM, N{sub 2} sorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The characterization results showed that rod-like Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles in sizes of about 20 nm × 50 nm were homogeneously anchored on the surface of ACF. The goal of high As(V) removal efficiency was achieved with maximum adsorption capacity of 20.33 mg g{sup −1}. The effects of temperature on thermodynamics and kinetics of As(V) adsorption were systematically studied. It was found that the adsorption of As(V) on the surface of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF is an endothermic process with a standard enthalpy change (ΔH{sup 0}) of 24.79 kJ mol{sup −1}. Batch experimental result showed that almost all of the As(V) with initial concentration of 3.0 mg L{sup −1} can be removed in the presence of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF, where the residual As(V) in filtrate was less than 0.01 mg L{sup −1}, below the tolerance level of drinking water suggested by World Health Organization (WHO). The presence of salt such as NaCl, Na{sub 2}SO{sub 4}, and MgSO{sub 4} showed little effects on the adsorption of As(V), indicating the promising application of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF in industrial wastewater. - Highlights: • Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF hybrid was rapidly fabricated using a microwave-assisted heating strategy. • Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanorods in sizes of 20 × 50 nm were homogeneously anchored on the surface of ACF. • The maximum adsorption capacity of 20.33 mg g{sup −1} As (V) on Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/ACF was achieved. • The adsorption of As (V) is an endothermic process (ΔH{sup 0} = 24.79 kJ mol{sup −1}). • The presence of salt shows little effect on the adsorption of As (V).

  6. The application of phase grating to CLM technology for the sub-65nm node optical lithography

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yoon, Gi-Sung; Kim, Sung-Hyuck; Park, Ji-Soong; Choi, Sun-Young; Jeon, Chan-Uk; Shin, In-Kyun; Choi, Sung-Woon; Han, Woo-Sung

    2005-06-01

    As a promising technology for sub-65nm node optical lithography, CLM(Chrome-Less Mask) technology among RETs(Resolution Enhancement Techniques) for low k1 has been researched worldwide in recent years. CLM has several advantages, such as relatively simple manufacturing process and competitive performance compared to phase-edge PSM's. For the low-k1 lithography, we have researched CLM technique as a good solution especially for sub-65nm node. As a step for developing the sub-65nm node optical lithography, we have applied CLM technology in 80nm-node lithography with mesa and trench method. From the analysis of the CLM technology in the 80nm lithography, we found that there is the optimal shutter size for best performance in the technique, the increment of wafer ADI CD varied with pattern's pitch, and a limitation in patterning various shapes and size by OPC dead-zone - OPC dead-zone in CLM technique is the specific region of shutter size that dose not make the wafer CD increased more than a specific size. And also small patterns are easily broken, while fabricating the CLM mask in mesa method. Generally, trench method has better optical performance than mesa. These issues have so far restricted the application of CLM technology to a small field. We approached these issues with 3-D topographic simulation tool and found that the issues could be overcome by applying phase grating in trench-type CLM. With the simulation data, we made some test masks which had many kinds of patterns with many different conditions and analyzed their performance through AIMS fab 193 and exposure on wafer. Finally, we have developed the CLM technology which is free of OPC dead-zone and pattern broken in fabrication process. Therefore, we can apply the CLM technique into sub-65nm node optical lithography including logic devices.

  7. Titanium Dioxide Particle Type and Concentration Influence the Inflammatory Response in Caco-2 Cells.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tada-Oikawa, Saeko; Ichihara, Gaku; Fukatsu, Hitomi; Shimanuki, Yuka; Tanaka, Natsuki; Watanabe, Eri; Suzuki, Yuka; Murakami, Masahiko; Izuoka, Kiyora; Chang, Jie; Wu, Wenting; Yamada, Yoshiji; Ichihara, Sahoko

    2016-04-16

    Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles are widely used in cosmetics, sunscreens, biomedicine, and food products. When used as a food additive, TiO₂ nanoparticles are used in significant amounts as white food-coloring agents. However, the effects of TiO₂ nanoparticles on the gastrointestinal tract remain unclear. The present study was designed to determine the effects of five TiO₂ particles of different crystal structures and sizes in human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells and THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages. Twenty-four-hour exposure to anatase (primary particle size: 50 and 100 nm) and rutile (50 nm) TiO₂ particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner in THP-1 macrophages, but in not Caco-2 cells. However, 72-h exposure of Caco-2 cells to anatase (50 nm) TiO₂ particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner. The highest dose (50 µg/mL) of anatase (100 nm), rutile (50 nm), and P25 TiO₂ particles also reduced cellular viability in Caco-2 cells. The production of reactive oxygen species tended to increase in both types of cells, irrespective of the type of TiO₂ particle. Exposure of THP-1 macrophages to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm) TiO₂ particles increased interleukin (IL)-1β expression level, and exposure of Caco-2 cells to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm) TiO₂ particles also increased IL-8 expression. The results indicated that anatase TiO₂ nanoparticles induced inflammatory responses compared with other TiO₂ particles. Further studies are required to determine the in vivo relevance of these findings to avoid the hazards of ingested particles.

  8. Solid State Formation Mechanism of Li<sub>4sub>Ti>5sub>O>12sub> from an Anatase TiO<sub>2sub> 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...

  9. Core–shell structured FeSiAl/SiO{sub 2} particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} soft magnetic composite cores with tunable insulating layer thicknesses

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fan, Xi’an, E-mail: groupfxa@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Wang, Jian, E-mail: snove418562@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Wu, Zhaoyang, E-mail: wustwuzhaoyang@163.com [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Li, Guangqiang, E-mail: ligq-wust@mail.wust.edu.cn [The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China); Key Laboratory for Ferrous Metallurgy and Resources Utilization of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430081 (China)

    2015-11-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • FeSiAl/SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite cores were prepared. • SiO{sub 2} surrounding FeSiAl were replaced by Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} during sintering process. • Fe{sub 3}Si particles were separated by Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} with tunable thickness in composite cores. • Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} had lower core loss and better frequency stability than FeSiAl core. • The insulating layer between ferromagnetic particles can reduce core loss. - Abstract: FeSiAl/SiO{sub 2} core–shell particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite cores with tunable insulating layer thicknesses have been synthesized via a modified Stöber method combined with following high temperature sintering process. Most of the conductive FeSiAl particles could be coated by insulating SiO{sub 2} using the modified Stöber method. During the sintering process, the reaction 4Al + 3SiO{sub 2} ≣ 2α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} + 3Si took place and the new Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite was formed. The Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite cores displayed more excellent soft magnetic properties, better frequency stability at high frequencies, much higher resistivity and lower core loss than the raw FeSiAl core. Based on this, several types of FeSiAl/SiO{sub 2} particles and Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite cores with tunable insulating layer thicknesses were selectively prepared by simply varying TEOS contents. The thickness of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} insulating layer and resistivity of Fe{sub 3}Si/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite cores increased with increasing the TEOS contents, while the permeability and core loss changed in the opposite direction.

  10. Evaluation of luminescent properties and detection of Eu{sup 2}+ in nano structured particles of Gd{sub 2}-x Eu{sub x}O{sub 3} system (x= 0.05, 0.10 and 0.30); Evaluacion de las propiedades luminiscentes y deteccion de Eu{sup 2}+ en particulas nanoestructuradas del sistema Gd{sub 2}-xEu{sub x} O{sub 3} (x= 0.05, 0.10 y 0.30)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Barroso, J.; Mena, I.; Gomez, L. S.; Milosevic, O.; Rabanal, M. E.

    2012-11-01

    Spray Pyrolysis (SP) is performed at 700 degree centigrade in dry air atmosphere using common nitrate aqueous solutions (0,1M) as precursor in order to obtain nano structured particles with the composition Gd{sub 2}-xEu{sub x}O{sub 3} (x= 0.05, 0.10 and 0.30). In this work, three samples with different atomic europium concentration (1, 2 and 6%) were studied. After, the obtained particles were subjected to different thermal treatments with varying temperatures between 800 and 1000 degree centigrade/12 h in dry air atmosphere. The obtained particles were characterized by XRD, SEM techniques, laser dispersion and steady state fluorescence spectroscopy. The existence of two cubic phases with different symmetry cubic phases (Ia-3, Fm-3m) was identified within the as-prepared samples. Moreover, the presence of Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} monoclinic phase (C{sub 2}/m) which disappears during the thermal treatments was proved. In all thermally treated samples, it was observed the stabilization of an only Ia-3 phase. Fluorescence emission measurements in all studied samples the presence of Eu{sup 2}+ ({lambda}= 430nm), whose intensity increases as long as the content of the monoclinic phase decreases of the Eu{sup 3}+ percentage. (Author) 35 refs.

  11. Role of grain size on the magnetic properties of La{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}MnO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yadav, P.A. [Center for Advanced Studies in Materials Science and Condensed Matter Physics, Department of Physics, University of Pune, Pune 411007 (India); Deshmukh, A.V. [Department of Physics, Fergusson College, Pune 411004 (India); Adhi, K.P. [Center for Advanced Studies in Materials Science and Condensed Matter Physics, Department of Physics, University of Pune, Pune 411007 (India); Kale, B.B. [Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology, Pune 411008 (India); Basavaih, N. [Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, New Mumbai 410218 (India); Patil, S.I., E-mail: patil@physics.unipune.ac.in [Center for Advanced Studies in Materials Science and Condensed Matter Physics, Department of Physics, University of Pune, Pune 411007 (India)

    2013-02-15

    Nanophasic La{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}MnO{sub 3} samples were synthesized using the citrate-gel method. The samples were annealed at different temperatures ranging from 600 to 1200 Degree-Sign C. Grain size was observed to increase with the increase in annealing temperature. Furthermore, the magnetization data of these samples show well defined hysteresis. Saturation magnetization was observed to increase with increase in particle size. This gives evidence of formation of a magnetically dead layer at the surface. The thickness of the dead layer has also been calculated. The coercivity of nanoparticles follows the same trend as predicted theoretically and particles below 22 nm are found to be single domain. The ferromagnetic to paramagnetic transition temperature also increases with increase in particle size. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Synthesis of nanocrystalline La{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}MnO{sub 3} by the citrate-gel method. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Saturation magnetization increases with increase in particle size. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Formation of dead magnetic layer.

  12. Sub-50 nm gate length SOI transistor development for high performance microprocessors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Horstmann, M.; Greenlaw, D.; Feudel, Th.; Wei, A.; Frohberg, K.; Burbach, G.; Gerhardt, M.; Lenski, M.; Stephan, R.; Wieczorek, K.; Schaller, M.; Hohage, J.; Ruelke, H.; Klais, J.; Huebler, P.; Luning, S.; Bentum, R. van; Grasshoff, G.; Schwan, C.; Cheek, J.; Buller, J.; Krishnan, S.; Raab, M.; Kepler, N.

    2004-01-01

    Partial depleted (PD) SOI technologies have reached maturity for production of high speed, low power microprocessors. The paper will highlight several challenges found during the course of development for bringing 40 nm gate length (L GATE ) PD SOI transistors into volume manufacturing for high-speed microprocessors. The key innovations developed for this transistor in order to overcome classical gate oxide and L GATE scaling is an unique differential triple spacer structure, stressed overlayer films inducing strain in the Silicon channel and optimized junctions. This transistor structure yields an outstanding ring oscillator speed with an unloaded inverter delay of 5.5 ps. The found improvements are highly manufacturable and scaleable for future device technologies like FD SOI

  13. Highly Sensitive Bulk Silicon Chemical Sensors with Sub-5 nm Thin Charge Inversion Layers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fahad, Hossain M; Gupta, Niharika; Han, Rui; Desai, Sujay B; Javey, Ali

    2018-03-27

    There is an increasing demand for mass-producible, low-power gas sensors in a wide variety of industrial and consumer applications. Here, we report chemical-sensitive field-effect-transistors (CS-FETs) based on bulk silicon wafers, wherein an electrostatically confined sub-5 nm thin charge inversion layer is modulated by chemical exposure to achieve a high-sensitivity gas-sensing platform. Using hydrogen sensing as a "litmus" test, we demonstrate large sensor responses (>1000%) to 0.5% H 2 gas, with fast response (<60 s) and recovery times (<120 s) at room temperature and low power (<50 μW). On the basis of these performance metrics as well as standardized benchmarking, we show that bulk silicon CS-FETs offer similar or better sensing performance compared to emerging nanostructures semiconductors while providing a highly scalable and manufacturable platform.

  14. Performance PtSnRh electrocatalysts supported on carbon-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5}.SbO{sub 2} for the electro-oxidation of ethanol, prepared by an alcohol-reduction process; Desempenho de eletrocatalisadores PtSnRh suportados em carbono-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5}.SnO{sub 2} para a oxidacao eletroquimica do etanol, preparados pelo metodo de reducao por alcool

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Castro, Jose Carlos

    2013-07-01

    PtSnRh electrocatalysts supported on carbon-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5}.SnO{sub 2}, with metal loading of 20 wt%, were prepared by an alcohol-reduction process, using H{sub 2}PtCl{sub 6}.6H{sub 2}O (Aldrich), RhCl{sub 3}.xH{sub 2}O (Aldrich) and SnCl{sub 2}.2H{sub 2}O (Aldrich), as source of metals; Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5}.SnO{sub 2} (ATO) and carbon Vulcan XC72, as support; and ethylene glycol as reducing agent. The electrocatalysts obtained were characterized physically by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The diffractograms showed which PtSnRh/C-ATO electrocatalysts had FCC structure of Pt and Pt alloys, besides several peaks associated with SnO{sub 2} and ATO. The average sizes of crystallites were between 2 and 4 nm. TEM micrographs showed a good distribution of the nanoparticles on the support. The average sizes of particles were between 2 and 3 nm, with good agreement for the average size of the crystallites. The performances of the electrocatalysts were analyzed by electrochemical techniques and in real conditions of operation using single direct ethanol fuel cell. In the chronoamperometry at 50 deg C, the electrocatalysts with carbon (85 wt%) and ATO (15 wt%) support, showed the best activity, and the atomic proportions which achieved the best results were PtSnRh(70:25:05) e (90:05:05). PtSnRh(70:25:05)/85C+15ATO electrocatalysts showed the best performance in a direct ethanol fuel cell. (author)

  15. Characterization of FeCo particles synthesized via co-precipitation, particle growth using flux treatment and reduction in hydrogen gas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kishimoto, Mikio, E-mail: kishimoto.mikio.gb@u.tsukuba.ac.jp; Latiff, Hawa; Kita, Eiji; Yanagihara, Hideto

    2017-06-15

    The possibility of high coercive force in FeCo particles was examined focusing on distortion introduced in the particles. The particles were synthesized via co-precipitation of Fe and Co ions, heat-treatment in potassium bromide flux for particle growth, and reduction using hydrogen gas. The particle shape was spherical or a slightly elongated with the size of approximately 30–200 nm, and the composition with approximately Fe{sub 60}Co{sub 40} was determined from the D-spacing of (110) peak. The coercive force of approximately 90 kA/m was obtained in particles with the saturation magnetization of approximately 150 Am{sup 2}/kg. The coercive force was higher than those in reported FeCo particles with same level of saturation magnetization. As one of the reason of high coercive force, we expected the possibility of occurrence of magnetic anisotropy based on the anisotropic distortion generated between FeCo alloy and surface oxides in a slightly elongated particles. - Highlights: • FeCo particles synthesized via Fe/Co:1/1, flux treated, and reduction. • Spherical or slightly elongated shape with size of approximately 30–200 nm. • Composition with Fe{sub 60}Co{sub 40} determined from D-spacing of (110) peak. • Coercive force of 90 kA/m and saturation magnetization of 150 Am{sup 2}/kg.

  16. Preparation and catalytic activities for H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition of Rh/Au bimetallic nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Haijun, E-mail: zhanghaijun@wust.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Integrated Exploitation of Bayan Obo Multi-Metal Resources, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou 014010 (China); The State Key Laboratory of Refractory and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081 (China); Deng, Xiangong; Jiao, Chengpeng; Lu, Lilin; Zhang, Shaowei [The State Key Laboratory of Refractory and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081 (China)

    2016-07-15

    Graphical abstract: PVP-protected Rh/Au bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) were prepared by using hydrogen sacrificial reduction method, the activity of Rh80Au20 BNPs were about 3.6 times higher than that of Rh NPs. - Highlights: • Rh/Au bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) of 3∼5 nm in diameter were prepared. • Activity for H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition of BNPs is 3.6 times higher than that of Rh NPs. • The high activity of BNPs was caused by the existence of charged Rh atoms. • The apparent activation energy for H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition over the BNPs was calculated. - Abstract: PVP-protected Rh/Au bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) were prepared by using hydrogen sacrificial reduction method and characterized by UV–vis, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, TEM, HR-TEM and DF-STEM, the effects of composition on their particle sizes and catalytic activities for H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition were also studied. The as-prepared Rh/Au BNPs possessed a high catalytic activity for the H{sub 2}O{sub 2} decomposition, and the activity of the Rh{sub 80}Au{sub 20} BNPs with average size of 2.7 nm were about 3.6 times higher than that of Rh monometallic nanoparticles (MNPs) even the Rh MNPs possess a smaller particle size of 1.7 nm. In contrast, Au MNPs with size of 2.7 nm show no any activity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation as well as XPS results showed that charged Rh and Au atoms formed via electronic charge transfer effects could be responsible for the high catalytic activity of the BNPs.

  17. Effect of the milling time on thermal stability of mechanically alloyed Mg{sub 5}0 Ni{sub 5}0 amorphous alloy; Efecto del tiempo de molienda sobre la estabilidad termica del amorfo Mg{sub 5}0 Ni:50 producido mediante aleado mecanico

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Guzman, D.; Ordonez, S.; Serafini, D.; Rojas, P.; Aguilar, C.; Santander, M.; Navea, L.

    2009-07-01

    In order to study the relationship between the milling time used in the production of Mg{sub 5}0Ni{sub 5}0 amorphous alloy and its thermal stability, seven amorphous alloys were produced by milling for 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50 and 60 h each sample. The obtained powders were morphological and structurally characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The thermal stability of amorphous alloys was study by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the increase in the added energy when milling for longer time causes the homogenization of the microstructure with an increase in amorphous phase, which dissolves a large amount of nickel in its structure. Therefore, the simultaneous crystallization of the Mg{sub 2}Ni and MgNi{sub 2} intermetallic compounds at 345 degree centigrade can be explained. (Author) 19 refs.

  18. Simultaneous treatment of NO and SO{sub 2} with aqueous NaClO{sub 2} solution in a wet scrubber combined with a plasma electrostatic precipitator

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Park, Hyun-Woo [Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Regional Innovation Center for Environmental Technology of Thermal Plasma (RIC-ETTP), INHA University, 100 Inha-ro, Nam-gu, Incheon 402-751 (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Sooseok, E-mail: sooseok@jejunu.ac.kr [Department of Nuclear and Energy Engineering, Jeju National University, 102 Jejudaehak-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, 690-756 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Dong-Wha, E-mail: dwpark@inha.ac.kr [Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Regional Innovation Center for Environmental Technology of Thermal Plasma (RIC-ETTP), INHA University, 100 Inha-ro, Nam-gu, Incheon 402-751 (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-03-21

    Highlights: • This study was conducted to investigate simultaneous removal of NO and SO{sub 2}. • Proposed process consists of wet chemical reactor and non-thermal plasma reactor. • In the wet chemical reactor, NO and SO{sub 2} were absorbed and oxidized by NaClO{sub 2}. • In the non-thermal plasma reactor, aerosol particles were collected on anode surface. • NO and SO{sub 2} were removed more efficiently by proposed process than other methods. - Abstract: NO and SO{sub 2} gases that are generally produced in thermal power plants and incinerators were simultaneously removed by using a wet scrubber combined with a plasma electrostatic precipitator. The wet scrubber was used for the absorption and oxidation of NO and SO{sub 2}, and non-thermal plasma was employed for the electrostatic precipitation of aerosol particles. NO and SO{sub 2} gases were absorbed and oxidized by aerosol particles of NaClO{sub 2} solution in the wet scrubber. NO and SO{sub 2} reacted with the generated NaClO{sub 2} aerosol particles, NO{sub 2} gas, and aqueous ions such as NO{sub 2}{sup −}, NO{sub 3}{sup −}, HSO{sub 3}{sup −}, and SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}. The aerosol particles were negatively charged and collected on the surface of grounded anode in the plasma electrostatic precipitator. The NO and SO{sub 2} removal efficiencies of the proposed system were 94.4% and 100% for gas concentrations of 500 mg/m{sup 3} and a total gas flow rate of 60 Nm{sup 3}/h, when the molar flow rate of NaClO{sub 2} and the gas–liquid contact time were 50 mmol/min and 1.25 s, respectively. The total amount and number of aerosol particles in the exhaust gas were reduced to 7.553 μg/m{sup 3} and 210 /cm{sup 3} at the maximum plasma input power of 68.8 W, which are similar to the values for clean air.

  19. Liquid phase surface melting of AA8011 aluminum alloy by addition of Al/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-composite powders synthesized by high-energy milling

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sohi, M. Heydarzadeh [School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Hojjatzadeh, S.M.H., E-mail: Hojatzadeh@yahoo.com [Department of Welding, Science and Research Branch, Azad University, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Moosavifar, Sh. S.; Heshmati-Manesh, S. [School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2014-09-15

    Highlights: • Aluminum matrix composite layers reinforced with alumina particles were fabricated. • Non milled powders caused porosity in the microstructures because of poor wettability. • The ball milling of powders was significantly improved the wettability of nano ceramic particles. • The micro hardness of the layers was approximately 3 times greater than that of the base metal. - Abstract: Poor wettability of particles is an obstacle in formation of sound composite layer via surface melting. Pre-coating of particles with metallic material by different techniques, such as ball milling may enhance the wettability of the particles with molten metal. In this study, composite surface layers containing Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles were fabricated on the surface of AA8011 aluminum substrates by tungsten inert gas (TIG) surface melting using preplaced layers of Al/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder mixtures in two different forms: (1) a mixture of 40 wt% Al and 60 wt% of 50 nm Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders and (2) a mixture obtained by mechanical alloying of 40 wt% Al and 60 wt% of 60 μm Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders. Morphology evolution of powders during ball milling and the microstructure of the fabricated composite layers were studied through conventional characterization techniques, such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Microhardness measurements were also performed across the alloyed zone. The results indicated that the layer fabricated by the second route showed a defect free structure with a more uniform distribution of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles in comparison with the layer obtained by the first route. It was also noticed that the uniform dispersion of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles in the fabricated layer increased the hardness to 133 HV which was over 3 times of that of the base metal.

  20. Titanium Dioxide Particle Type and Concentration Influence the Inflammatory Response in Caco-2 Cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tada-Oikawa, Saeko; Ichihara, Gaku; Fukatsu, Hitomi; Shimanuki, Yuka; Tanaka, Natsuki; Watanabe, Eri; Suzuki, Yuka; Murakami, Masahiko; Izuoka, Kiyora; Chang, Jie; Wu, Wenting; Yamada, Yoshiji; Ichihara, Sahoko

    2016-01-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are widely used in cosmetics, sunscreens, biomedicine, and food products. When used as a food additive, TiO2 nanoparticles are used in significant amounts as white food-coloring agents. However, the effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on the gastrointestinal tract remain unclear. The present study was designed to determine the effects of five TiO2 particles of different crystal structures and sizes in human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells and THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages. Twenty-four-hour exposure to anatase (primary particle size: 50 and 100 nm) and rutile (50 nm) TiO2 particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner in THP-1 macrophages, but in not Caco-2 cells. However, 72-h exposure of Caco-2 cells to anatase (50 nm) TiO2 particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner. The highest dose (50 µg/mL) of anatase (100 nm), rutile (50 nm), and P25 TiO2 particles also reduced cellular viability in Caco-2 cells. The production of reactive oxygen species tended to increase in both types of cells, irrespective of the type of TiO2 particle. Exposure of THP-1 macrophages to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm) TiO2 particles increased interleukin (IL)-1β expression level, and exposure of Caco-2 cells to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm) TiO2 particles also increased IL-8 expression. The results indicated that anatase TiO2 nanoparticles induced inflammatory responses compared with other TiO2 particles. Further studies are required to determine the in vivo relevance of these findings to avoid the hazards of ingested particles. PMID:27092499

  1. Titanium Dioxide Particle Type and Concentration Influence the Inflammatory Response in Caco-2 Cells

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Saeko Tada-Oikawa

    2016-04-01

    Full Text Available Titanium dioxide (TiO2 nanoparticles are widely used in cosmetics, sunscreens, biomedicine, and food products. When used as a food additive, TiO2 nanoparticles are used in significant amounts as white food-coloring agents. However, the effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on the gastrointestinal tract remain unclear. The present study was designed to determine the effects of five TiO2 particles of different crystal structures and sizes in human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2 cells and THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages. Twenty-four-hour exposure to anatase (primary particle size: 50 and 100 nm and rutile (50 nm TiO2 particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner in THP-1 macrophages, but in not Caco-2 cells. However, 72-h exposure of Caco-2 cells to anatase (50 nm TiO2 particles reduced cellular viability in a dose-dependent manner. The highest dose (50 µg/mL of anatase (100 nm, rutile (50 nm, and P25 TiO2 particles also reduced cellular viability in Caco-2 cells. The production of reactive oxygen species tended to increase in both types of cells, irrespective of the type of TiO2 particle. Exposure of THP-1 macrophages to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm TiO2 particles increased interleukin (IL-1β expression level, and exposure of Caco-2 cells to 50 µg/mL of anatase (50 nm TiO2 particles also increased IL-8 expression. The results indicated that anatase TiO2 nanoparticles induced inflammatory responses compared with other TiO2 particles. Further studies are required to determine the in vivo relevance of these findings to avoid the hazards of ingested particles.

  2. Thermoluminescence of LaAlO{sub 3}; Termoluminescencia de LaAlO{sub 3}:Dy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Morales H, A.; Zarate M, J. [Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Instituto de Investigacion en Metalurgia y Materiales, Ciudad Universitaria, Edif. U, 58060 Morelia, Michoacan (Mexico); Rivera M, T. [IPN, Centro de Investigacion en Ciencia Aplicada y Tecnologia Avanzada, Av. Legaria 694, 11500 Mexico D. F. (Mexico); Azorin N, J., E-mail: feyo_yo@hotmail.com [Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, Av. San Rafael Atlixco 186, Col. Vicentina, 09340 Mexico D. F. (Mexico)

    2015-10-15

    In this paper the thermoluminescent properties of doped lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO{sub 3}) with dysprosium ion (Dy) were studied. The thermoluminescence characteristics in the samples were obtained using an ultraviolet radiation of 220 nm. The LaAlO{sub 3}:Dy samples were prepared by the modified Pechini method (Spray Dryer). The structural and morphological characterization was obtained by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (Sem) techniques respectively. The size particle composing the agglomerate was determined by Sem, agglomerated particles composed size of 2μm were observed. The thermoluminescence response of LaAlO{sub 3}:Dy was compared with that obtained with the undoped sample. Thermoluminescence brightness curves of LaAlO{sub 3}:Dy showed a peak centered at 185 grades C. Sensitivity of doped sample was greater, about 100 times compared with the undoped sample. Thermoluminescence response in function of the wavelength showed a maximum at 220 nm. Also the fading in thermoluminescence response was studied. (Author)

  3. Rapid microwave-assisted synthesis of sub-30nm lipid nanoparticles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dunn, Stuart S; Beckford Vera, Denis R; Benhabbour, S Rahima; Parrott, Matthew C

    2017-02-15

    Accessing the phase inversion temperature by microwave heating may enable the rapid synthesis of small lipid nanoparticles. Nanoparticle formulations consisted of surfactants Brij 78 and Vitamin E TPGS, and trilaurin, trimyristin, or miglyol 812 as nanoparticle lipid cores. Each formulation was placed in water and heated by microwave irradiation at temperatures ranging from 65°C to 245°C. We observed a phase inversion temperature (PIT) for these formulations based on a dramatic decrease in particle Z-average diameters. Subsequently, nanoparticles were manufactured above and below the PIT and studied for (a) stability toward dilution, (b) stability over time, (c) fabrication as a function of reaction time, and (d) transmittance of lipid nanoparticle dispersions. Lipid-based nanoparticles with distinct sizes down to 20-30nm and low polydispersity could be attained by a simple, one-pot microwave synthesis. This was carried out by accessing the phase inversion temperature using microwave heating. Nanoparticles could be synthesized in just one minute and select compositions demonstrated high stability. The notable stability of these particles may be explained by the combination of van der Waals interactions and steric repulsion. 20-30nm nanoparticles were found to be optically transparent. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  4. Synthesis of Mn{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} magnetic nanoparticles by thermal decomposition method for medical diagnosis applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sánchez, Javier, E-mail: h_javiersanchez@hotmail.com [CINVESTAV-IPN, Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo – Ramos Arizpe, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila CP 25900, México (Mexico); Cortés-Hernández, Dora Alicia; Escobedo-Bocardo, José Concepción; Almanza-Robles, José Manuel; Reyes-Rodríguez, Pamela Yajaira; Jasso-Terán, Rosario Argentina [CINVESTAV-IPN, Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo – Ramos Arizpe, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila CP 25900, México (Mexico); Bartolo-Pérez, Pascual [CINVESTAV-IPN, Unidad Mérida, Departamento de Física Aplicada, A. P. 73 Cordemex, 97310 Mérida, Yuc., México (Mexico); De-León-Prado, Laura Elena [CINVESTAV-IPN, Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo – Ramos Arizpe, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila CP 25900, México (Mexico)

    2017-04-01

    In this work, the synthesis of Mn{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (x=0–1) nanosized particles by thermal decomposition method, using tetraethylene glycol (TEG) as a reaction medium, has been performed. The crystalline structure of the inverse spinel obtained in all the cases was identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Vibration sample magnetometry (VSM) was used to evaluate the magnetic properties of ferrites and to demonstrate their superparamagnetic behavior and the increase of magnetization values due to the Mn{sup 2+} ions incorporation into the FeGa{sub 2}O{sub 4} structure. Transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy (TEM-EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to characterize the obtained magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). These MNPs showed a near spherical morphology, an average particle size of 5.6±1.5 nm and a TEG coating layer on their surface. In all the cases MNPs showed no response when submitted to an alternating magnetic field (AMF, 10.2 kA/m, 354 kHz) using magnetic induction tests. These results suggest that the synthesized nanoparticles can be potential candidates for their use in biomedical areas. - Highlights: • Superparamagnetic NPs of Mn{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} were synthesized by thermal decomposition. • Saturation magnetization of MnGaFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} increases as Mn ions are increased. • Nanoparticles have a nanometric size of 5.6 nm and show no heating ability.

  5. Liquid Carbon Reflectivity at 19 nm

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Riccardo Mincigrucci

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available We hereby report on a pump-probe reflectivity experiment conducted on amorphous carbon, using a 780 nm laser as a pump and a 19 nm FEL emission as probe. Measurements were performed at 50 degrees with respect to the surface normal to have an un-pumped reflectivity higher than 0.5%. A sub-10 fs time synchronization error could be obtained exploiting the nearly jitter-free capabilities of FERMI. EUV FEL-based experiments open the way to study the behaviour of a liquid carbon phase being unaffected by plasma screening.

  6. Sub-5 nm, globally aligned graphene nanoribbons on Ge(001)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kiraly, Brian; Mannix, Andrew J. [Center for Nanoscale Materials, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Building 440, Argonne, Illinois 60439 (United States); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, 2220 Campus Drive, Evanston, Illinois 60208 (United States); Jacobberger, Robert M.; Arnold, Michael S. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706 (United States); Fisher, Brandon L.; Guisinger, Nathan P., E-mail: nguisinger@anl.gov, E-mail: m-hersam@northwestern.edu [Center for Nanoscale Materials, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Building 440, Argonne, Illinois 60439 (United States); Hersam, Mark C., E-mail: nguisinger@anl.gov, E-mail: m-hersam@northwestern.edu [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, 2220 Campus Drive, Evanston, Illinois 60208 (United States); Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, 2220 Campus Drive, Evanston, Illinois 60208 (United States)

    2016-05-23

    Graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) hold great promise for future electronics because of their edge and width dependent electronic bandgaps and exceptional transport properties. While significant progress toward GNR devices has been made, the field has been limited by difficulties achieving narrow widths, global alignment, and atomically pristine GNR edges on technologically relevant substrates. A recent advance has challenged these limits by using Ge(001) substrates to direct the bottom-up growth of GNRs with nearly pristine armchair edges and widths near ∼10 nm via atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition. In this work, the growth of GNRs on Ge(001) is extended to ultra-high vacuum conditions, resulting in the realization of GNRs with widths narrower than 5 nm. Armchair graphene nanoribbons oriented along Ge 〈110〉 surface directions are achieved with excellent width control and relatively large bandgaps. The bandgap magnitude and electronic uniformity of these sub-5 nm GNRs are well-suited for emerging nanoelectronic applications.

  7. Effect of temperature on structural, morphological and magnetic properties of Cd{sub 0.7}Co{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Prabhakar Vattikuti, S.V., E-mail: vsvprabu@gmail.com [School of Mechanical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do 712-749, Republic of Korea, (Korea, Republic of); Byon, Chan [School of Mechanical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do 712-749, Republic of Korea, (Korea, Republic of); Shim, Jaesool, E-mail: jshim@ynu.ac.kr [School of Mechanical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do 712-749, Republic of Korea, (Korea, Republic of); Reddy, Ch. Venkata, E-mail: cvrphy@gmail.com [School of Mechanical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do 712-749, Republic of Korea, (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-11-01

    Cadmium-substituted cobalt ferrite (Cd{sub 0.7}Co{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) nanoparticles were synthesized using a chemical synthesis method and synthesized particles were calcinated at 300 °C and 600 °C respectively. The samples were characterized in order to understand the temperature effect on structural, morphological, thermal, and magnetic properties. X-ray diffraction data confirm the formation of single-phase cubic structure and the average grain sizes were evaluated. The microstructural features were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and compositional analysis carried out by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). A vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) was used to investigate the magnetic properties. The hysteresis curves of Cd{sub 0.7}Co{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles show enhancement of the coercivity with the increasing calcinated temperature. This enhancement is attributed to the transition from a multi-domain to a single-domain nature. The high and low frequency absorption bands of Cd{sub 0.7}Co{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} were investigated using FT-IR analysis. - Highlights: • Cd{sub 0.7}Co{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano particles are prepared by the chemical synthesis method. • X-ray diffraction data confirms the single phase cubic spinel structure. • The estimated particle sizes from the XRD are approximately 25 and 35 nm. • The coercivity and magnetization values increase with increasing the particle size. • FT-IR spectra indicate the fundamental vibrations of host lattices.

  8. Determination of optical constant and dispersion parameters of Se{sub 75}Sb{sub 10}In{sub 15} thin film characterized by wide band gap

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Abd-Elrahman, M.I.; Abu-Sehly, A.A.; El-sonbaty, Sherouk Sh.; Hafiz, M.M. [Assiut University, Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut (Egypt)

    2017-02-15

    Chalcogenide Se{sub 75}Sb{sub 10}In{sub 15} thin films of different thickness (50-300 nm) are deposited using thermal evaporation technique. The thermogram of the chalcogenide bulk Se{sub 75}Sb{sub 10}In{sub 15} is obtained using a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The crystallization temperature T{sub c}, peak crystallization temperature T{sub p} and melting temperature T{sub m}, are identified. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination indicates the crystallinity of the as-deposited film decreases with increasing of thickness. Optical transmission and reflection spectra are recorded in the wavelength range of the incident photons from 250 to 2500 nm. It is found that the film thickness affects the absorption coefficient, refractive index, extinction coefficient and the width of the tails of localized states in the gap region. The absorption mechanism of the as-deposited films is a direct allowed transition. The optical band gap energy (E{sub g}) decreases from 3.31 to 2.51 eV with increasing the film thickness from 50 to 300 nm. The behavior of E{sub g} is explained on the basis of the structure disorders in the thicker films. The effect of the film thickness on the single-oscillator and dispersion energies is studied by the dispersion analyses of the refractive index. (orig.)

  9. Magnetic properties of nanocrystalline KNbO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Golovina, I. S., E-mail: golovina@isp.kiev.ua; Shanina, B. D.; Kolesnik, S. P. [Institute of Semiconductor Physics of NAS of Ukraine, Pr. Nauky 41, 03028 Kyiv (Ukraine); Geifman, I. N. [Quality Engineering Education, Inc., Buffalo Grove, Illinois 60089 (United States); Andriiko, A. A. [National Technical University of Ukraine “KPI”, pr. Peremogy 37, 03056 Kyiv (Ukraine)

    2013-11-07

    Newly synthesized undoped and iron-doped nanoscale powders of KNbO{sub 3} are investigated using magnetic resonance and static magnetization methods in order to determine how the crystal size and doping affect the structure of magnetic defects and material properties. Although the bulk crystals of KNbO{sub 3} are nonmagnetic, the undoped KNbO{sub 3} powder with average particle size of 80 nm exhibits magnetic properties. The ferromagnetic resonance signal and the magnetization curve registered on the powder are thoroughly analyzed. It is concluded that the appearance of the defect driven ferromagnetism in the undoped powder is due to the nano-size of the particles. This effect disappears in the iron-doped KNbO{sub 3} powder with particle sizes above 300 nm. In case of low doping (<1 mol. % Fe), a new electron paramagnetic resonance signal with g{sub eff} = 4.21 is found out in the KNbO{sub 3}:Fe powder. Such a signal has not been observed in the bulk crystals of KNbO{sub 3}:Fe. We suppose that this signal corresponds to individual paramagnetic Fe{sup 3+} ions having rhombic symmetry.

  10. Four different animated sub-particles as the origins of the life and creator of different angular momentums of elementary particles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gholibeigian, Hassan; Gholibeigian, Zeinab

    2015-04-01

    Understanding the internal structure of the proton is crucial challenge for QCD, and one important aspect of this is to understand how the spin of the nucleon is build-up from the angular momentum of its quarks and gluons. In this way, what's the origin of differences between angular momentums of fundamental particles? It may be from their substructures. It seems there are four sub-particles of mater, plant, animal and human in substructure of each fundamental particle (string) as the origins of life and cause of differences between spins of those elementary particles. Material's sub-particle always is on and active. When the environmental conditions became ready for creation of each field of the plant, animal and human, sub-particles of their elementary particles became on and active and then, those elementary particles participated in processes of creation in their own field. God, as the main source of information, has been communicated with their sub-particles and transfers a package (bit) of information and laws (plus standard ethics for human sub-particles) to each of them for process and selection (mutation) of the next step of motion and interaction of their fundamental particles with each other in each Plank's time. This is causality for particles' motion in quantum area.

  11. Synthesis and characterization of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles by simple precipitation method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sankadiya, Siyaram, E-mail: siyaramsankdiya@gmail.com; Oswal, Nidhi, E-mail: oswal03nidhi@gmail.com [Dept. of Applied Physics, Shri Govindram Sakseria Inst. of Tech. and Sci., 23 Park Road, Indore(MP) 452003 (India); Jain, Pranat, E-mail: pranatjain@gmail.com [Dept. of Material Sc. & Metallurgical Eng., Maulana Azad National Inst. of Tech., Bhopal (MP) 4620003 (India); Gupta, Nitish, E-mail: nitish.nidhi75@gmail.com [Dept. of Applied Chemistry, Shri Govindram Sakseria Inst. of Tech. and Sci., 23 Park Road, Indore (MP) 452003 (India)

    2016-04-13

    A simple and efficient synthesis of Iron-oxide nanoparticles was carried out by precipitation method using ferric chloride as precursor and ammonium hydroxide as a stabilizing agent at different calcination temperatures. The synthesized powder was characterized by powder X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). X-ray diffraction indicated the formation hematite Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} structure. FTIR showed various functional groups of particles and absorption bands related to metal oxygen vibration modes. The heating temperatures were varied at 100 °C, 200°C, and 300°C. The Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures with the average particle size of about 36.22 nm were prepared at 300°C for 4h. TEM study is also confirming the nanosize of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} particle. This aqueous precipitation method gives a large scale production of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles easily.

  12. Modeling and optimization of effective parameters on the size of synthesized Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} superparamagnetic nanoparticles by coprecipitation technique using response surface methodology

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ghazanfari, Mohammad Reza, E-mail: Ghazanfari.mr@gmail.com [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Kashefi, Mehrdad, E-mail: m-kashefi@um.ac.ir [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Jaafari, Mahmoud Reza [Biotechnology Research Center, Nanotechnology Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2016-05-01

    Generally, the statistical methods are defined as appropriate techniques to study the processes trends. In current research, the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} superparamagnetic nanoparticles were synthesized by coprecipitation method. In order to investigate the size properties of synthesized particles, the experimental design was done using central composite method (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) while the temperature, pH, and cation ratio of reaction were selected as influential factors. After particles synthesis based on designed runs, the different responses such as hydrodynamic size of particles (both freeze dried and air dried), size distribution, crystallite size, magnetic size, and zeta potential were evaluated by different techniques i.e. dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Based on these results, the quadratic polynomial model was fitted for each response that could predict the response amounts. In following, the study of factors effects was carried out that showed the temperature, pH, and their interactions had higher effectiveness. Finally, by optimizing, it was clear that the minimum amounts of particle size (10.15 nm) and size distribution (13.01 nm) were reached in the minimum temperature (70 °C) and cation ratio (0.5) amounts and maximum pH amount (10.5). Moreover, the characterizations showed the particles size was about 10 nm while the amounts of M{sub s}, H{sub c}, and M{sub r} were equal to 60 (emu/g), 0.2 (Oe) and 0.22 (emu/g), respectively. - Highlights: • The Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by coprecipitation method. • By RSM technique, some predicted models were presented for particles size. • Temperature, pH and their interactions had most effectiveness on the particles size. • The drying techniques can effect on the size properties.

  13. Composition and sources of particles in Mannerheimintie during exceedance days of PM{sub 10} limit value in 2009; Hiukkasten koostumus ja laehteet Mannerheimintiellae PM{sub 10}-raja-arvon ylityspaeivinae 2009

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kupiainen, K.; Stojiljkovic, A.; Ritola, R. (Nordic Envicon Oy, Helsinki (Finland))

    2011-06-15

    The purpose of the work was to determine sources of thoracic particles (PM{sub 10}) in the center of Helsinki, in Mannerheimintie, in 2009 during the days when the daily average concentration of PM{sub 10} exceeded 50 mug/m3. Work was commissioned by the Helsinki City Public Works department, the Helsinki Environment Centre and the Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority HSY (formerly YTV). By the end of the year there were altogether 30 exceedance days. The allowed number of exceedance days per year is 35, so the limit value was not exceeded in 2009. HSY is responsible for monitoring the air quality in the Helsinki metropolitan area. The PM{sub 10} monitoring data in combination with electron microscopy based single particle compositional analysis and receptor modeling was used to evaluate dust source contributions on the exceedance days at HSY's air quality monitoring station in Mannerheimintie. Dust sources related to traction control (winter maintenance and pavement wear by studded tyres) contributed most to the PM{sub 10} concentrations in Mannerheimintie. On 12 exceeding days this group accounted for more than 50 % of PM{sub 10} particles, on 3 days the group alone was sufficient to cause the exceedance. On 3 of the exceedance days long-range transboundary air pollution or traffic exhaust emissions were on the same level with the traction control sources. On 11 days the most significant impact came from construction sites. (orig.)

  14. Room temperature inverse magnetocaloric effect in Pd substituted Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} Heusler alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saha, Ritwik, E-mail: ritwik.saha@tifr.res.in; Nigam, A.K.

    2014-09-01

    The structural, magnetic and magnetocaloric effects for Ni{sub 50−x}Pd{sub x}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} Heusler alloys have been investigated around both structural and magnetic transitions. The room temperature X-ray diffraction indicates 10 M modulated martensitic structure with an orthorhombic unit cell for x=0 and 1. However, the superstructure reflections for x=2 alloy imply that the pattern is related to the L2{sub 1} phase. The maximum entropy change occurring at the martensitic transition is found to be 21 J kg{sup −1} K{sup −1} for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} alloy around room temperature. Despite the smaller change in entropy around room temperature, 3.8 times larger value of refrigerant capacity (184.6 J/kg) is achieved for 2% substitution of Pd, due to occurrence of magnetic entropy change in a broader temperature region.

  15. Effect of heat treatment on microstructure and interface of SiC particle reinforced 2124 Al matrix composite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mandal, Durbadal, E-mail: durbadal73@yahoo.co.in [MEF Division, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur 831007 (India); Viswanathan, Srinath [Dept of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL (United States)

    2013-11-15

    The microstructure and interface between metal matrix and ceramic reinforcement of a composite play an important role in improving its properties. In the present investigation, the interface and intermetallic compound present in the samples were characterized to understand structural stability at an elevated temperature. Aluminum based 2124 alloy with 10 wt.% silicon carbide (SiC) particle reinforced composite was prepared through vortex method and the solid ingot was deformed by hot rolling for better particle distribution. Heat treatment of the composite was carried out at 575 °C with varying holding time from 1 to 48 h followed by water quenching. In this study, the microstructure and interface of the SiC particle reinforced Al based composites have been studied using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) associated with wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to identify the precipitate and intermetallic phases that are formed during heat treatment. The SiC particles are uniformly distributed in the aluminum matrix. The microstructure analyses of Al–SiC composite after heat treatment reveal that a wide range of dispersed phases are formed at grain boundary and surrounding the SiC particles. The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and wavelength dispersive spectroscopy analyses confirm that finely dispersed phases are CuAl{sub 2} and CuMgAl{sub 2} intermetallic and large spherical phases are Fe{sub 2}SiAl{sub 8} or Al{sub 15}(Fe,Mn){sub 3}Si. It is also observed that a continuous layer enriched with Cu and Mg of thickness 50–80 nm is formed at the interface in between Al and SiC particles. EDS analysis also confirms that Cu and Mg are segregated at the interface of the composite while no carbide is identified at the interface. - Highlights: • The composite was successfully heat treated at 575°C for 1

  16. Controllable synthesis of magnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles with different morphology by one-step hydrothermal route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Zhongtao; Du, Yi, E-mail: duyi1964@126.com; Li, Zhongfu; Yang, Kai; Lv, Xingjie

    2017-03-15

    Well-defined Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles were successfully fabricated by a facile triethanolamine (TEA)-assisted method under mild hydrothermal conditions. Hydrated ferric salt was employed as the single iron precursor. TEA was used as the complexing agent and/or alkaline source. The crystalline phases of the as-obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, the morphology as well as the compositions of the samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS). The results indicated that the products were Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} crystal phase, and the morphology and powder size of the particles were varied with adding different amount of NaOAc and keeping the content of TEA unchanged. On the basis of these results, the possible formation mechanism of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} was discussed. It was observed that TEA and NaOAc affected the growth rate of crystal planes and nucleation. Besides, the magnetic property tested by a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) showed that the products exhibited a ferromagnetic behavior and possessed the excellent saturation magnetization (Ms) at room temperature. - Highlights: • Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles were obtained by employing TEA as single alkali source. • Morphology and size of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles varied by adjusting the TEA/NaOAc ratio. • Magnetic properties of products were influenced by particle size and morphology.

  17. High-average-power UV generation at 266 and 355 nm in β-BaB/sub 2/O/sub 4/

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, K.C.; Rhoades, M.

    1987-01-01

    UV light has been generated previously by harmonic conversion from Nd:YAG lasers using the nonlinear crystals KD*P and ADP. Most of the previous studies have employed lasers with high peak power due to the low-harmonic-conversion efficiency of these crystals and also low average power due to the phase mismatch caused by temperature detuning resulting from UV absorption. A new nonlinear crystal β-BaB/sub 2/O/sub 4/ has recently been reported which provides for the possibility of overcoming the aforementioned problems. The authors utilized β-BaB/sub 2/O/sub 4/ to frequency triple and frequency quadruple a high-repetition-rate cw-pumped Nd:YAG laser and achieved up to 1-W average power with Gaussian spatial distribution at 266 and 355 nm. β-BaB/sub 2/O/sub 4/ has demonstrated its advantages for high-average-power UV generation. Its major drawback is a low-angular-acceptance bandwidth which requires a high-quality fundamental pump beam

  18. On the spatial distribution and evolution of ultrafine particles in Barcelona

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Dall'Osto

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Sources and evolution of ultrafine particles were investigated both horizontally and vertically in the large urban agglomerate of Barcelona, Spain. Within the SAPUSS project (Solving Aerosol Problems by Using Synergistic Strategies, a large number of instruments was deployed simultaneously at different monitoring sites (road, two urban background, regional background, urban tower 150 m a.s.l., urban background tower site 80 m a.s.l. during a 4 week period in September–October 2010. Particle number concentrations (N<sub>>5 nm> are highly correlated with black carbon (BC at all sites only under strong vehicular traffic influences. By contrast, under cleaner atmospheric conditions (low condensation sink, CS such correlation diverges towards much higher N/BC ratios at all sites, indicating additional sources of particles including secondary production of freshly nucleated particles. Size-resolved aerosol distributions (N<sub>10–500sub> as well as particle number concentrations (N<sub>>5 nm> allow us to identify three types of nucleation and growth events: (1 a regional type event originating in the whole study region and impacting almost simultaneously the urban city of Barcelona and the surrounding urban background area; (2 a regional type event impacting only the regional background area but not the urban agglomerate; (3 an urban type event which originates only within the city centre but whose growth continues while transported away from the city to the regional background. Furthermore, during these clean air days, higher N are found at tower level than at ground level only in the city centre whereas such a difference is not so pronounced at the remote urban background tower. In other words, this study suggests that the column of air above the city ground level possesses the optimal combination between low CS and high vapour source, hence enhancing the concentrations of freshly nucleated

  19. Some sub-structures of many-particle correlation in nuclei

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chang, C; Chao, W; Li, K

    1977-01-01

    The coherent structures of two phonons were proposed as the sub-structure ..cap alpha..' of four-particle clusters for the light nuclei. In the same way the sub-structure ..beta../sup +/ of four-hole clusters can also be given. Based on this the sub-structures between particle clusters and hole clusters in /sup 16/O and /sup 18/O were chosen as examples for investigation. It is found that there is a very strong repulsive force between them. Therefore the loose structure between particle cluster and hole cluster is of the lowest energy state. In this way, the deformations of these states were explained from the microscopic structures. Moreover, these structures can coherently strengthen the E2 transition. Further in order to study the particle correlation in the medium nuclei, the L-S coupling coherent structure is extended to the pseudo L-S coupling coherent structure and the expressions are given in the j-j coupling representation. Some preliminary analyses are made for the nuclei around /sup 56/Ni by using these structures.

  20. Surface functionalized hollow silica particles and composites

    KAUST Repository

    Rodionov, Valentin

    2017-05-26

    Composition comprising hollow spherical silica particles having outside particle walls and inside particle walls, wherein the particles have an average particle size of about 10 nm to about 500 nm and an average wall thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm; and wherein the particles are functionalized with at least one organic functional group on the outside particle wall, on the inside particle wall, or on both the outside and inside particle walls, wherein the organic functional group is in a reacted or unreacted form. The organic functional group can be epoxy. The particles can be mixed with polymer precursor or a polymer material such as epoxy to form a prepreg or a nanocomposite. Lightweight but strong materials can be formed. Low loadings of hollow particles can be used.

  1. Surface functionalized hollow silica particles and composites

    KAUST Repository

    Rodionov, Valentin; Khanh, Vu Bao

    2017-01-01

    Composition comprising hollow spherical silica particles having outside particle walls and inside particle walls, wherein the particles have an average particle size of about 10 nm to about 500 nm and an average wall thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm; and wherein the particles are functionalized with at least one organic functional group on the outside particle wall, on the inside particle wall, or on both the outside and inside particle walls, wherein the organic functional group is in a reacted or unreacted form. The organic functional group can be epoxy. The particles can be mixed with polymer precursor or a polymer material such as epoxy to form a prepreg or a nanocomposite. Lightweight but strong materials can be formed. Low loadings of hollow particles can be used.

  2. Spectroscopy of peaks at microwave range for nanostructure SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} and NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ariaee, Sina, E-mail: sina.ariaee@tabrizu.ac.ir; Mehdipour, Mostafa, E-mail: Mostafa_mehdipour67@yahoo.com; Moradnia, Mina, E-mail: mina.moradnia86@gmail.com

    2017-05-01

    In this paper, (SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} and NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) nanostructure ferrite particles were synthesized via the co-precipitation of chloride salts utilizing the sodium hydroxide solution. The resulting precursors were heat-treated at 1100 °C for 4 h. After cooling in the furnace, the ferrite powders were pressed at 0.1 MPa and then sintered at 1200 °C for 4 h. The spectroscopy and characterization of peaks at the microwave range (X-band) for the nanostructure ferrite particles were investigated by the ferromagnetic resonance/transmit-line theories and Reflection Loss (RL) plots. The extracted data from these theoretical and experimental results showed that the natural ferromagnetic resonance can be lead to the narrow peaks and the width of the peaks can be related to the periodic effects. Two kinds of peaks were seen for NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} at X-band (8–12 GHz); the narrow peak at (9.8 GHz) was remaining unchanged and consistent while the wide one was shifted from 11 GHz to 8.5 GHz by decreasing the thickness of the samples. These phenomena were also happened for SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} samples. The natural resonance was not happened due to the hard magnetic properties of these nano structure particles. - Highlights: • SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} and NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanostructure ferrite particles were synthesized via the co-precipitation of chloride salts. • Two kinds of peaks were seen for NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} at X-band (8–12 GHz); these phenomena were also happened for SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} samples. • The narrow peaks were remained unchanged and consistent while the wide ones were shifted by decreasing the thickness of the samples. • Characterization procedure was conducted utilizing the ferromagnetic resonance/transmit-line theories and Reflection Loss (RL) plots. • It was concluded that the natural ferromagnetic resonance can be lead to the narrow peaks while the wide ones can be related to the periodic effects.

  3. The film thickness dependent thermal stability of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ag thin films as high-temperature solar selective absorbers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xiao Xiudi; Xu Gang, E-mail: xiudixiao@163.com; Xiong Bin; Chen Deming; Miao Lei [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Renewable Energy and Gas Hydrates, Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion (China)

    2012-03-15

    The monolayer Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ag thin films were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The microstructure and optical properties of thin film after annealing at 700 Degree-Sign C in air were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and spectrophotometer. It revealed that the particle shape, size, and distribution across the film were greatly changed before and after annealing. The surface plasmon resonance absorption and thermal stability of the film were found to be strongly dependent on the film thickness, which was believed to be associated with the evolution process of particle diffusion, agglomeration, and evaporation during annealing at high temperature. When the film thickness was smaller than 90 nm, the film SPR absorption can be attenuated until extinct with increasing annealing time due to the evaporation of Ag particles. While the film thickness was larger than 120 nm, the absorption can keep constant even after annealing for 64 h due to the agglomeration of Ag particles. On the base of film thickness results, the multilayer Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ag solar selective thin films were prepared and the thermal stability test illustrated that the solar selectivity of multilayer films with absorbing layer thickness larger than 120 nm did not degrade after annealing at 500 Degree-Sign C for 70 h in air. It can be concluded that film thickness is an important factor to control the thermal stability of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ag thin films as high-temperature solar selective absorbers.

  4. Au and Pd nanoparticles supported on CeO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}, and Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} oxides

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nascente, P.A.P., E-mail: nascente@ufscar.br [Federal University of Sao Carlos, Department of Materials Engineering, Sao Carlos, SP (Brazil); Maluf, S.S.; Afonso, C.R.M. [Federal University of Sao Carlos, Department of Materials Engineering, Sao Carlos, SP (Brazil); Landers, R. [State University of Campinas, Institute of Physics, Department of Applied Physics, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Pinheiro, A.N.; Leite, E.R. [Federal University of Sao Carlos, Department of Chemistry, Sao Carlos, SP (Brazil)

    2014-10-01

    Highlights: • CeO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}, and Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} supported Au and Pd nanoparticles. • Additions of 0.5 wt% of Au and Pd onto CeO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}, and Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} supports. • Characterization by XRD, XPS, EDS, TEM, HRTEM, STEM, and EFTEM. - Abstract: Gold and palladium nanoparticles were incorporated on CeO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2}, and Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} supports prepared by a sol–gel method. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution TEM (HRTEM), scanning TEM (STEM) in high angle annular dark field mode (HAADF), and energy filtered TEM (EFTEM) using electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The XRD diffractograms presented sharp and intense peaks indicating that the samples are highly crystalline, but it did not detected any peak corresponding to Au or Pd phases. This indicates that the Au and Pd NPs were incorporated into the structures of the oxides. It was not possible to obtain an Au 4f spectrum for Au/Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} due to an overlap with the Mn 3p spectrum. The XPS Au 4f spectra for Au/CeO{sub 2} and Au/TiO{sub 2} present negative chemical shifts that could be attributed to particle-size-related properties. The XPS Pd 3d spectra indicate that for both CeO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2} substrates, the Pd NPs were in the metallic state, while for the Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} substrate, the Pd NPs were oxidized. The HRTEM results show the formation of nanocrystalline oxides having particles sizes between 50 and 200 nm. TEM micrographs show that the addition of Au caused the formation of Au clusters in between the CeO{sub 2} NPS, formation of Au NPs for the TiO{sub 2} support, and homogeneous distribution of Au clusters for the Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} support. The addition of Pd yielded a homogeneous dispersion throughout the CeO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2}, but caused the formation of Pd clusters for the Mn{sub 2}O{sub

  5. ZnO/TiO{sub 2} particles and their solar cell application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kerli, S., E-mail: suleymankerli@ksu.edu.tr [Department of EnergySystemsEngineering, Faculty of Elbistan Technology, Kahramanmaras SutcuImamUniversity, Kahramanmaras (Turkey); Akgül, Ö., E-mail: omeraakgul@gmail.com [Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Dept. of Physics, 46100 K.Maras-Turkey (Turkey); Alver, Ü., E-mail: ualver@ktu.edu.tr [Karadeniz Technical University, Dept. of Metallurgical and Materials Eng. 61080, Trabzon-Turkey (Turkey)

    2016-03-25

    ZnO/TiO{sub 2} particles were investigated for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Nano-structured ZnO particles were produced by the hydrothermal method. TiO{sub 2} (P25) nanoparticles, was bought from the company of Degussa. Crystal structures and morphological properties of particles were examined by XRD and SEM. As an application, dye sensitized solar cells were fabricated from nano-structured produced metal oxide particles. The working electrodes of the DSSCs were obtained by mixture of ZnO and TiO{sub 2} powders. I-V characteristics of the cells were measured by using a solar simulator and the efficiency of the solar cells were obtained by using I-V graphs. ZnO cells sensitized with Ruthenium 535-bisTBA (N719) dyes yield higher efficiencies than corresponding TiO{sub 2} cells. By increasing TiO{sub 2} amount in the mixture of ZnO/TiO{sub 2}, it was observed that efficiencies of cells are getting lower.

  6. Killer smog of London, 50 years on: particle properties and oxidative capacity.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Whittaker, Andy; BéruBé, Kelly; Jones, Tim; Maynard, Robert; Richards, Roy

    2004-12-01

    Total suspended particulate (TSP) samples collected on glass fibre filters in London before (1955) and after (1958-1974) the Clean Air Act was examined for physicochemical characteristics and oxidative capacity. High-resolution microscopy identified most of the material as soot with smelter spheres, fly ash (FA), sodium chloride and calcium sulphate particles. Image analysis (IA) was used to show that most of the soot aggregates were less than 1 microm in size and contained chains of individual particles of 10-50 nm. Speed mapping of large agglomerates of the historic particles confirmed that the samples were enriched with soot probably derived from a sulphur-rich coal called nutty slack which was used extensively at this time. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to examine elemental composition. Meaningful quantitation of certain elements (Mg, Al and Zn) proved impossible because they were in high quantities in the glass fibre filters. However, high quantities of Fe>Pb>Cu>Mn>V>As were detected which may explain in part the bioreactivity of the samples. Using a simple in vitro test of oxidative capacity (plasmid assay), one historic particulate sample (1958) showed three times the activity of a modern-day diesel exhaust particle (DEP) sample but ten times less activity than a modern-day urban ambient particle collection. Such studies are continuing to link particle physicochemical properties and bioreactivity with a wider range of the samples collected between 1955 and 74 and how such historic samples compare with present-day London ambient particles.

  7. Stochastic simulation of thermally assisted magnetization reversal in sub-100 nm dots with perpendicular anisotropy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Purnama, Budi; Koga, Masashi; Nozaki, Yukio; Matsuyama, Kimihide

    2009-01-01

    Thermally assisted magnetization reversal of sub-100 nm dots with perpendicular anisotropy has been investigated using a micromagnetic Langevin model. The performance of the two different reversal modes of (i) a reduced barrier writing scheme and (ii) a Curie point writing scheme are compared. For the reduced barrier writing scheme, the switching field H swt decreases with an increase in writing temperature but is still larger than that of the Curie point writing scheme. For the Curie point writing scheme, the required threshold field H th , evaluated from 50 simulation results, saturates at a value, which is not simply related to the energy barrier height. The value of H th increases with a decrease in cooling time owing to the dynamic aspects of the magnetic ordering process. Dependence of H th on material parameters and dot sizes has been systematically studied

  8. Luminescence and luminescence quenching of Sr{sub 3}Lu{sub 2}(Si{sub 3}O{sub 9}){sub 2}:Ce{sup 3+} phosphors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mikalauskaite, I.; Raudonyte-Svirbutaviciene, E. [Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko 24, LT-03225 Vilnius (Lithuania); Linkeviciute, A. [State Research Institute, Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Avenue 3, LT-10257 Vilnius (Lithuania); Urbonas, M. [Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko 24, LT-03225 Vilnius (Lithuania); Katelnikovas, A., E-mail: arturas.katelnikovas@chf.vu.lt [Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko 24, LT-03225 Vilnius (Lithuania)

    2017-04-15

    A series of near-UV to blue emitting Sr{sub 3}Lu{sub 2}(Si{sub 3}O{sub 9}){sub 2}:Ce{sup 3+} phosphors were prepared by a solid state reaction. The optical properties of synthesized phosphors were investigated as a function of Ce{sup 3+} concentration and temperature. These luminescent materials strongly absorb UV radiation shorter than 360 nm. The optimal Ce{sup 3+} concentration was 0.1% (external quantum efficiency ca. 45%). Temperature dependent measurements showed that Sr{sub 3}Lu{sub 2}(Si{sub 3}O{sub 9}){sub 2}:Ce{sup 3+} phosphors possess good thermal stability and loses only about 40% to 50% of initial intensity in the temperature range of 77–500 K depending on activator concentration.

  9. Effects of aging on PuO{sub 2} . xH{sub 2}O particle size in alkaline solution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Delegard, C.H. [Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA (United States)

    2013-08-01

    Between 1944 and 1989, 54.5 metric tons of the United States' weapons-grade plutonium and an additional 12.9 metric tons of fuels-grade plutonium were produced in and separated from irradiated uranium metal fuel at the Hanford Site. Acidic high-activity wastes containing around 600 kg of plutonium were made alkaline and discharged to underground storage tanks from separations, isolation, and recycle processes to yield average plutonium concentration of about 0.003 g/L (or {proportional_to} 0.0002 wt. %) in the {proportional_to} 200 million liter tank waste volume. The plutonium is largely associated with low-solubility metal hydroxide/oxide sludges where its low concentration and intimate mixture with neutron-absorbing elements (e.g., iron) are credited in nuclear criticality safety. However, concerns have been expressed that plutonium, in the form of hydrated plutonium oxide, PuO{sub 2} . xH{sub 2}O, could undergo sufficient crystal growth through dissolution and reprecipitation in the alkaline tank waste to potentially become separable from neutron absorbing constituents by settling or sedimentation. Thermodynamic considerations and laboratory studies of systems chemically analogous to tank waste show that the plutonium, precipitated in the alkaline tank waste by neutralization from acid solution, probably entered as 2-5-nm PuO{sub 2} . xH{sub 2}O, crystallite particles that, because of the low concentration of the neutral Pu(IV) dissolved species and opposition from radiolytic processes, grow from that point at exceedingly slow rates. (orig.)

  10. Microwave properties of La{sub 0.8}Ag{sub 0.2}MnO{sub 3} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rostamnejadi, Ali [Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Electroceram Research Center, Shahin Shahr, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2016-11-15

    In this research, single-phase nanoparticles of La{sub 0.8}Ag{sub 0.2}MnO{sub 3} with mean particle size of 15 nm have been synthesized by sol-gel method. The microwave properties of La{sub 0.8}Ag{sub 0.2}MnO{sub 3}/paraffin nanocomposite are studied by measuring the complex permittivity and permeability in the frequency range of 1-18 GHz. The composite shows both reflection and absorption electromagnetic shielding effectiveness with maximum total value of 36 dB, which is suitable for defense and microwave radiation shielding applications at high temperatures. The electromagnetic absorption properties are described in terms of dielectric relaxation processes. (orig.)

  11. On the mechanism of nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2} toxicity to freshwater algae

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Angel, Brad M., E-mail: Brad.Angel@csiro.au [Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research, CSIRO Land and Water Flagship, Locked Bag 2007, Kirrawee, NSW 2232 (Australia); Vallotton, Pascal [Digital Productivity Flagship, CSIRO, North Ryde, NSW 1670 (Australia); Apte, Simon C. [Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research, CSIRO Land and Water Flagship, Locked Bag 2007, Kirrawee, NSW 2232 (Australia)

    2015-11-15

    Highlights: • Nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2} less toxic than micron-sized CeO{sub 2}. • UV light filters prevented ROS generation by CeO{sub 2}. • ROS not toxic mechanism: CeO{sub 2} toxicity was similar in presence and absence of ROS. • Strong sorption of nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2} to Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata in synthetic fresh water. • CeO{sub 2} sorption to cells was prevented and toxicity mitigated in the presence of DOC. - Abstract: The factors affecting the chronic (72-h) toxicity of three nanoparticulate (10–34 nm) and one micron-sized form of CeO{sub 2} to the green alga, Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata were investigated. To characterise transformations in solution, hydrodynamic diameters (HDD) were measured by dynamic light scatter, zeta potential values by electrophoretic mobility, and dissolution by equilibrium dialysis. The protective effects of humic and fulvic dissolved organic carbon (DOC) on toxicity were also assessed. To investigate the mechanisms of algal toxicity, the CytoViva hyperspectral imaging system was used to visualise algal–CeO{sub 2} interactions in the presence and absence of DOC, and the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was investigated by ‘switching off’ ROS production using UV-filtered lighting conditions. The nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2} immediately aggregated in solution to HDDs measured in the range 113–193 nm, whereas the HDD and zeta potential values were significantly lower in the presence of DOC. Negligible CeO{sub 2} dissolution over the time course of the bioassay ruled out potential toxicity from dissolved cerium. The nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2} concentration that caused 50% inhibition of algal growth rate (IC50) was in the range 7.6–28 mg/L compared with 59 mg/L for micron-sized ceria, indicating that smaller particles were more toxic. The presence of DOC mitigated toxicity, with IC50s increasing to greater than 100 mg/L. Significant ROS were generated in the nanoparticulate CeO{sub 2

  12. Interactions between nano-TiO{sub 2} and the oral cavity: Impact of nanomaterial surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Teubl, Birgit J.; Schimpel, Christa [Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); Leitinger, Gerd [Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Research Unit Electron Microscopic Techniques, Medical University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); Center for Medical Research, Medical University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); BioTechMed, Graz 8010 (Austria); Bauer, Bettina [Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); Fröhlich, Eleonore [Center for Medical Research, Medical University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); BioTechMed, Graz 8010 (Austria); Zimmer, Andreas [Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); BioTechMed, Graz 8010 (Austria); Roblegg, Eva, E-mail: eva.roblegg@uni-graz.at [Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Graz, 8010 (Austria); BioTechMed, Graz 8010 (Austria)

    2015-04-09

    Highlights: • Hydrophilic as well as hydrophobic TiO{sub 2} NPs agglomerated under oral physiological conditions. • Particles penetrated the upper and lower buccal epithelium, independent on the degree of hydrophilicity. • Most of the hydrophobic particles were found in vesicular structures, while hydrophilic particles were freely distributed in the cytoplasm. • Hydrophilic particles had a higher potential to trigger toxic effects (e.g., ROS) than hydrophobic particles. - Abstract: Titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) nanoparticles are available in a variety of oral applications, such as food additives and cosmetic products. Thus, questions about their potential impact on the oro-gastrointestinal route rise. The oral cavity represents the first portal of entry and is known to rapidly interact with nanoparticles. Surface charge and size contribute actively to the particle–cell interactions, but the influence of surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity has never been shown before. This study addresses the biological impact of hydrophilic (NM 103, rutile, 20 nm) and hydrophobic (NM 104, rutile, 20 nm) TiO{sub 2} particles within the buccal mucosa. Particle characterization was addressed with dynamic light scattering and laser diffraction. Despite a high agglomeration tendency, 10% of the particles/agglomerates were present in the nanosized range and penetrated into the mucosa, independent of the surface properties. However, significant differences were observed in intracellular particle localization. NM 104 particles were found freely distributed in the cytoplasm, whereas their hydrophobic counterparts were engulfed in vesicular structures. Although cell viability/membrane integrity was not affected negatively, screening assays demonstrated that NM 104 particles showed a higher potential to decrease the physiological mitochondrial membrane potential than NM 103, resulting in a pronounced generation of reactive oxygen species.

  13. Interaction of Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−y} nanoparticles with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Krajczyk, L.; Kraszkiewicz, P.; Kepinski, L., E-mail: L.Kepinski@int.pan.wroc.pl

    2015-02-01

    The interaction of nanocrystalline Ce{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}O{sub 1.75} mixed oxide with an amorphous Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in oxidizing and reducing atmosphere up to 1100 °C was studied by XRD, TEM, SEM-EDS and BET. Uniform, chemically homogeneous Ce{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}O{sub 1.75} nanoparticles (2 nm in size) were prepared by microemulsion method and deposited on a high surface γ-alumina support. The nanoparticles were structurally and chemically stable in the oxidizing atmosphere up to 1100 °C, exhibiting only an increase of the mean crystallite size to 9 nm after 3 h treatment. Prolonged heating (24 h) at 1100 °C caused partial decomposition of the mixed oxide and reaction of the extracted erbium with the support with formation of hexagonal (P6{sub 3}/mmc) ErAlO{sub 3} aluminate. The same hexagonal ErAlO{sub 3} occurred also in Er/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} sample prepared by impregnation of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} support with an aqueous solution of Er nitrate and subjected to heating in air or hydrogen at 1100 °C. In the reducing atmosphere the Ce{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}O{sub 1.75} reacted with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} already at 800 °C, to form an amorphous surface phase. At 900 °C monoclinic (P2{sub 1}/c) (Er,Ce){sub 4}Al{sub 2}O{sub 9} mixed aluminate was formed with the unit cell volume 4.5% bigger than that of pure Er{sub 4}Al{sub 2}O{sub 9} phase. After 3 h treatment at 1000 °C more than half of the (Er,Ce){sub 4}Al{sub 2}O{sub 9} aluminate decomposed into two nanocrystalline mixed monoaluminates: tetragonal (I4/mcm) (Ce,Er)AlO{sub 3} and hexagonal (P6{sub 3}/mmc) (Er,Ce)AlO{sub 3}. Nanocrystalline mixed aluminate particles with Er{sup 3+} ions placed in well-defined lattice sites and supported at the surface of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} support, may be interesting as highly efficient active components of optical waveguides amplifiers. - Graphical abstract: Structure evolution of Ce{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}O{sub 1.75} on Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in air and in H{sub 2}. - Highlights:

  14. Interparticle interactions of FePt core and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} shell in FePt/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} magnetic nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Akbari, Hossein, E-mail: Akbari.ph@iauardabil.ac.ir [Department of Physics, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Zeynali, Hossein [Department of Physics, Kashan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Bakhshayeshi, Ali [Department of Physics, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2016-02-22

    Monodisperse FePt nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using simple wet chemical method. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} was used as a magnetic shell around each FePt nanoparticles. In FePt/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} core/shell system, core thickness is 2 nm and shell thickness varies from zero to 2.5 nm. A theoretical model presented to calculate the shell thickness dependence of Coercivity. Presented model is compared with the results from Stoner–Wohlfarth model to interpret the shell thickness dependence of Coercivity in FePt/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} core/shell nanoparticles. There is a difference between the results from Stoner–Wohlfarth model and experimental data when the shell thickness increases. In the presented model, the effects of interparticle exchange and random magneto crystalline anisotropy are added to the previous models of magnetization reversal for core/shell nanostructures in order to achieve a better agreement with experimental data. For magnetic shells in FePt/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} core/shell, effective coupling between particles increases with increasing shell thickness which leads to Coercivity destruction for stronger couplings. According to the boundary conditions, in the harder regions with higher exchange stiffness, there is small variation in magnetization and so the magnetization modes become more localized. We discussed both localized and non-localized magnetization modes. For non-zero shell thickness, non-localized modes propagate in the soft phase which effects the quality of particle exchange interactions. - Highlights: • Monodisperse FePt nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using simple wet chemical method. • Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} was used as a magnetic shell around each FePt nanoparticles. • A theoretical model presented to calculate the shell thickness dependence of Coercivity. • Magnetic shells increase effective coupling between particles with increasing shell thickness. • Magnetization modes are more localized in the regions with

  15. Blue and red emission in wide band gap BaZrO{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+},Tm{sup 3+}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Borja-Urby, R. [Centro de Investigaciones en Optica, A. C., C. P. 37150 Leon, Gto. (Mexico); Diaz-Torres, L.A., E-mail: ditlacio@cio.mx [Centro de Investigaciones en Optica, A. C., C. P. 37150 Leon, Gto. (Mexico); Salas, P. [Centro de Fisica Aplicada y Tecnologia Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, A. P. 1-1010, Queretaro 76000 (Mexico); Vega-Gonzalez, M. [Centro de Geociencias-Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, A. P. 1-1010, Queretaro 76000 (Mexico); Angeles-Chavez, C. [Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo, Programa de Ingenieria Molecular, Cd. Mexico D.F. 07730 (Mexico)

    2010-10-25

    Under NIR excitation at 967 intense blue and red photoluminescence (PL) emissions are observed at room temperature in codoped Tm{sup 3+}-Yb{sup 3+} barium zirconate (BaZrO{sub 3}:Yb,Tm) powders. Powders were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method, and present a wide band gap that depends on the total rare earth content due to the degree of disorder induced in the BaZrO{sub 3} lattice by the substitution of the rare earth ions. Rietveld refinements of the XRD patterns indicated the presence of primary nanocrystallites with sizes between 50 and 70 nm depending on the Tm{sup 3+} content. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) shows that these primary particles self-aggregated in larger secondary particles which present a regular morphology with sizes around 1 {mu}m. The intense blue and red PL emissions in BaZrO{sub 3} powders under 967 nm excitation are governed by energy transfer processes from Yb{sup 3+} ions to Tm{sup 3+} ions and crossrelaxation among Tm{sup 3+} ions.

  16. Magnetic performance of orthorhombic Mn{sub 35}Ge{sub 35}Te{sub 30} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mahdy, Iman A.

    2017-01-15

    Nanocrystalline antiferromagnetic Mn{sub 35}Ge{sub 35}Te{sub 30} diluted magnetic semiconductors powder syntheses by the conventional direct reaction of pure metals. Nanocrystalline nature of the prepared sample confirmed using various techniques, where x-Ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscope (AFM) measurements shows ~96 nm particle size, while transmission electron microscope (TEM) shows 92 nm particle size. XRD analysis show orthorhombic symmetry with lattice parameters a=7.386611±(0.0066) Å, b=8.962502±(0.0090) Å and c=7.027349±(0.0040) Å. Electron Spin resonance (ESR) show a broad asymmetric line whereas the remnant Mn{sup 2+} six-hyperfine lines are broadened within |+1/2>→|−1/2> line according to high anisotropy; calculated Landé g-factor is 2.047. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis, field-moment characteristics revealed a hysteresis loop with small coercive field indicating that Mn{sub 35}Ge{sub 35}Te{sub 30} is a soft magnetic material. Moreover, hysteresis measurements at different temperatures show increasing magnetization with increasing temperature up to 150 K followed by decreased with increasing temperature up to 300 K. This behavior indicated to the antiferromagnetic nature of the prepared nanocrystalline materials. Magnetic moment – temperature measurements show Néel temperature T{sub N}=172.6 K. Magnetic force microscope revealed magnetic domains as a result of interaction between magnetic dipole moments of magnetic cantilever and pressed powder. - Highlights: • Nanocrystalline diluted magnetic semiconductors of new Mn-Ge-Te orthorhombic phase. • Soft magnetic materials for a magnetic core of many devices. • Mixture of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic. • Asymmetry in hysteresis loop explained by the exchange bias of domain spins.

  17. Synthesis and characterization of Sr{sub 1-x}Ba{sub x}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 15} ferroelectric materials

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xie Dan; Pan Wei; Shi Hui

    2003-05-25

    Sr{sub 1-x}Ba{sub x}Bi{sub 4}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 15} (SBBT, x=0, 0.2, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0) was prepared by sol-gel method using the salts of strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), bismuth (Bi) and titanium butoxide as sources. The mechanism of hydrolysis and polymetric reaction of precursor solution and the influence of annealing condition on crystal structure and microstructure of SBBT ferroelectric materials were studied by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results of the analysis indicated the formation of stable sol-gel system for SBBT when pH value of the solution was about 3.5. The crystallization temperature of SBBT powder was about 700 deg. C and the particle size was about 100 nm.

  18. Direct sampling of sub-µm atmospheric particulate organic matter in sub-ng m-3 mass concentrations by proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry

    Science.gov (United States)

    Armin, W.; Mueller, M.; Klinger, A.; Striednig, M.

    2017-12-01

    A quantitative characterization of the organic fraction of atmospheric particulate matter is still challenging. Herein we present the novel modular "Chemical Analysis of Aerosol Online" (CHARON) particle inlet system coupled to a new-generation proton-transfer-reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer (PTR-TOF 6000 X2, Ionicon Analytik, Austria) that quantitatively detects organic analytes in real-time and sub-pptV levels by chemical ionization with hydronium reagent ions. CHARON consists of a gas-phase denuder for stripping off gas-phase analytes (efficiency > 99.999%), an aerodynamic lens for particle collimation combined with an inertial sampler for the particle-enriched flow and a thermodesorption unit for particle volatilization prior to chemical analysis. With typical particle enrichment factors of around 30 for particle diameters (DP) between 120 nm and 1000 nm (somewhat reduced enrichment for 60 nm 6000) and excellent mass accuracies (< 10 ppm) chemical compositions can be assigned and included in further analyses. In addition to a detailed characterization of the CHARON PTR-TOF 6000 X2 we will present first results on the chemical composition of sub-µm particulate organic matter in the urban atmosphere in Innsbruck (Austria).

  19. Synthesis, morphology and microstructure of pomegranate-like hematite ({alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) superstructure with high coercivity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tadic, Marin, E-mail: marint@vinca.rs [Condensed Matter Physics Laboratory, Vinca Institute, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11001 Belgrade (Serbia); Citakovic, Nada [Military Academy, Generala Pavla Jurisica Sturma 33, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade (Serbia); Panjan, Matjaz [Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana (Slovenia); Stanojevic, Boban [Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, P.O. Box 522, 11001 Belgrade, University of Belgrade (Serbia); Markovic, Dragana [Condensed Matter Physics Laboratory, Vinca Institute, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11001 Belgrade (Serbia); Jovanovic, Dorde [Center for Solid State Physics and New Materials, Institute of Physics, University of Belgrade, Pregrevica 118, 11080 Belgrade (Serbia); Spasojevic, Vojislav [Condensed Matter Physics Laboratory, Vinca Institute, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11001 Belgrade (Serbia)

    2012-12-05

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We found superior magnetic properties of the hematite ({alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer TEM and HRTEM images show a pomegranate-like superstructure. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Magnetic measurements display high coercivity H{sub C} = 4350 Oe at the room temperature. - Abstract: We found novel and superior magnetic properties of the hematite ({alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) that originate from an internal microstructure of particles and strong inter-particle interactions between nanocrystal sub-units. The hematite particles were synthesized by thermal decomposition of iron (III) nitrate without any template or surfactant. The purity, size, crystallinity, morphology, microstructure and magnetic features of the as-prepared particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Raman spectroscopy (RS) and SQUID magnetometry. An XRD study reveals a pure phase of {alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} whereas TEM shows {alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} spheres with a diameter of about 150 nm. RS also shows high quality and purity of the sample. Moreover, TEM and HRTEM images show a pomegranate-like superstructure and evidence that the spherical particles are composed of individual well-crystallized nanoparticle sub-units (self-assembled nanoparticles) with a size of about 20 nm. Magnetic measurements display hysteretic behavior at the room temperature with remanent magnetization M{sub r} = 0.731 emu/g, saturation magnetization M{sub S} = 6.83 emu/g and coercivity H{sub C} = 4350 Oe, as well as the Morin transition at T{sub M} = 261 K. These results and comparison with those in the literature reveal that the sample has extremely high coercivity. The magnetic properties of the sample are discussed in relation to morphology, internal microstructure, surface

  20. Zinc substituted ferrite nanoparticles with Zn{sub 0.9}Fe{sub 2.1}O{sub 4} formula used as heating agents for in vitro hyperthermia assay on glioma cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hanini, Amel [Interface Traitement Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes (TODYS), Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-7086, 75013, Paris (France); Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-8104, INSERM U1016, 75005 Paris (France); Laboratoire de Physiologie Intégrée (LPI), Université de Carthage, 7021, Jarzouna (Tunisia); Lartigue, Lenaic [Matière et Systèmes Complexes (MSC), Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-7057, 75013, Paris (France); Gavard, Julie [Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-8104, INSERM U1016, 75005 Paris (France); Kacem, Kamel [Laboratoire de Physiologie Intégrée (LPI), Université de Carthage, 7021, Jarzouna (Tunisia); Wilhelm, Claire; Gazeau, Florence [Matière et Systèmes Complexes (MSC), Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-7057, 75013, Paris (France); Chau, François [Interface Traitement Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes (TODYS), Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR-7086, 75013, Paris (France); and others

    2016-10-15

    In this paper we investigate the ability of zinc rich ferrite nanoparticles to induce hyperthermia on cancer cells using an alternating magnetic field (AMF). First, we synthesized ferrites and then we analyzed their physico-chemical properties by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and magnetic and magnetocalorimetric measurements. We found that the polyol-made magnetically diluted particles are of 11 nm in size. They are superparamagnetic at body temperature (310 K) with a low but non-negligible magnetization. Interestingly, as nano-ferrimagnets they exhibit a Curie temperature of 366 K, close to the therapeutic temperature range. Their effect on human healthy endothelial (HUVEC) and malignant glioma (U87-MG) cells was also evaluated using MTT viability assays. Incubated with the two cell lines, at doses ≤100 µg mL{sup −1} and contact times ≤4 h, they exhibit a mild in vitro toxicity. In these same operating biological conditions and coupled to AMF (700 kHz and 34.4 Oe) for 1 h, they rapidly induce a net temperature increase. In the case of tumor cells it reaches 4 K, making the produced particles particularly promising for self-regulated magnetically-induced heating in local glioma therapy. - Highlights: • Highly crystallized monodisperse 11 nm sized Zn{sub 0.9}Fe{sub 2.1}O{sub 4} particles were produced in polyol. • They exhibit a superparamagnetic behavior at 37 °C with a magnetization of 12 emu g{sup −1} at 50 kOe. • Their Curie temperature reaches 88 °C, close to the therapeutic hyperthermia temperatures. • Incubated with glioma cells and exposed to ac-magnetic field they induce a 4 °C temperature increase. • They can be considered as potential self-regulated heating probes for glioma therapy.

  1. Electrical and optical transport characterizations of electron beam evaporated V doped In{sub 2}O{sub 3} thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Islam, Md. Ariful, E-mail: arifapee19@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET), Rajshahi (Bangladesh); Roy, Ratan Chandra; Hossain, Jaker; Julkarnain, Md.; Khan, Khairul Alam [Department of Applied Physics & Electronic Engineering, University of Rajshahi (Bangladesh)

    2017-01-15

    Vanadium (5 at. %) doped Indium Oxide (V: In{sub 2}O{sub 3}) thin films with different thicknesses (50 nm, 100 nm and 150 nm) were prepared onto glass substrate by electron beam evaporation technique in a vacuum of about 4 x 10{sup -3} Pa. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed that the prepared films of thickness 50 nm are amorphous in nature. Temperature dependence of electrical resistivity was studied in the 300 < T < 475 K temperature range. The films exhibit a metallic behavior in the 300 < T < 380 K range with a positive temperature coefficient of the resistivity (TCR), whereas at T > 380 K, the conduction behavior turns into a semiconductor with a negative TCR. Optical studies revealed that the films of thickness 50 nm possess high transmittance of about 86 % in the near-infrared spectral region. The direct optical band gap lies between 3.26 and 3.00 eV depending on the film thickness. (author)

  2. Synthesis and characterization of Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped UO{sub 2} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Soldati, A.L., E-mail: asoldati@cab.cnea.gov.ar [Centro Atómico Bariloche (CAB) – Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica (CNEA), Av. Bustillo 9500, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. De los Pioneros 2300, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Gana Watkins, I. [Centro Atómico Bariloche (CAB) – Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica (CNEA), Av. Bustillo 9500, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Fernández Zuvich, A. [Centro Atómico Bariloche (CAB) – Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica (CNEA), Av. Bustillo 9500, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Instituto Balseiro, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Av. Bustillo 9500, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Napolitano, F.; Troiani, H. [Centro Atómico Bariloche (CAB) – Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica (CNEA), Av. Bustillo 9500, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. De los Pioneros 2300, CP: 8400 Bariloche (Argentina); and others

    2016-10-15

    UO{sub 2} nanoparticles doped with 4, 8, 10 and 15 wt% Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3}were synthesized by a reverse strike method. Crystal structure and chemical homogeneity were evaluated using a combination of X-ray diffraction and microscopy tools. An exhaustive study of the composition and its homogeneity at the micro and at the nanometer level was carried out in this nuclear fuel material. Field Emission Gun Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy images revealed the presence of micrometer scale agglomerates of nanoparticles, with rounded morphology and an average crystallite size of 100 nm. Rietveld refinements of high-statistic X-ray Diffraction data determined the crystal structure and composition. Furthermore, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy using a 2 nm{sup 2} spot on the sample surface determined a Gd concentration variation around the average of ±5% in different spots of a single crystallite and of ±10% between different crystallites. However, when measuring large amounts of nanoparticles the concentration averages, producing a homogeneous composition distribution at the micrometer scale. - Highlights: • Synthesis of 4, 8, 10 and 15wt% Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped UO{sub 2} nanoparticles. • Crystallite sizes around 100 nm and rounded morphology. • 90% Gd distribution homogeneity between particles for the less concentrated sample. • High Statistic X-ray Rietveld analysis determined an U{sub 1−x}Gd{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} fcc structure. • Phases with similar crystal structure and symmetry, but different lattice parameter.

  3. Fabrication of graphene oxide decorated with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} for immobilization of cellulase

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yue; Wang, Xiang-Yu; Jiang, Xiao-Ping; Ye, Jing-Jing; Zhang, Ye-Wang, E-mail: zhangyewang@ujs.edu.cn [Jiangsu University, School of Pharmacy (China); Zhang, Xiao-Yun, E-mail: zhangxiaoyungu@126.com [Jiangsu University, School of Food and Biological Engineering (China)

    2015-01-15

    Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2}–graphene oxide (GO) composites were successfully fabricated by chemical binding of functional Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} and GO and applied to immobilization of cellulase via covalent attachment. The prepared composites were further characterized by transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles (NPs) were monodisperse spheres with a mean diameter of 17 ± 0.2 nm. The thickness of SiO{sub 2} layer was calculated as being 6.5 ± 0.2 nm. The size of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} NPs was 24 ± 0.3 nm, similar to that of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2}–NH{sub 2}. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2}–GO composites were synthesized by linking of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2}–NH{sub 2} NPs to GO with the catalysis of EDC and NHS. The prepared composites were used for immobilization of cellulase. A high immobilization yield and efficiency of above 90 % were obtained after the optimization. The half-life of immobilized cellulase (722 min) was 3.34-fold higher than that of free enzyme (216 min) at 50 °C. Compared with the free cellulase, the optimal temperature of the immobilized enzyme was not changed; but the optimal pH was shifted from 5.0 to 4.0, and the thermal stability was enhanced. The immobilized cellulase could be easily separated and reused under magnetic field. These results strongly indicate that the cellulase immobilized onto the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2}–GO composite has potential applications in the production of bioethanol.

  4. Synthesis and characterization of monodisperse, mesoporous, and magnetic sub-micron particles doped with a near-infrared fluorescent dye

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Le Guevel, Xavier; Nooney, Robert; McDonagh, Colette; MacCraith, Brian D.

    2011-01-01

    Recently, multifunctional silica nanoparticles have been investigated extensively for their potential use in biomedical applications. We have prepared sub-micron monodisperse and stable multifunctional mesoporous silica particles with a high level of magnetization and fluorescence in the near infrared region using an one-pot synthesis technique. Commercial magnetite nanocrystals and a conjugated-NIR-dye were incorporated inside the particles during the silica condensation reaction. The particles were then coated with polyethyleneglycol to stop aggregation. X-ray diffraction, N 2 adsorption analysis, TEM, fluorescence and absorbance measurements were used to structurally characterize the particles. These mesoporous silica spheres have a large surface area (1978 m 2 /g) with 3.40 nm pore diameter and a high fluorescence in the near infrared region at λ=700 nm. To explore the potential of these particles for drug delivery applications, the pore accessibility to hydrophobic drugs was simulated by successfully trapping a hydrophobic ruthenium dye complex inside the particle with an estimated concentration of 3 wt%. Fluorescence imaging confirmed the presence of both NIR dye and the post-grafted ruthenium dye complex inside the particles. These particles moved at approximately 150 μm/s under the influence of a magnetic field, hence demonstrating the multifunctionality and potential for biomedical applications in targeting and imaging. - Graphical Abstract: Hydrophobic fluorescent Ruthenium complex has been loaded into the mesopores as a surrogate drug to simulate drug delivery and to enhance the multifunctionality of the magnetic NIR emitting particles. Highlights: → Monodisperse magnetic mesoporous silica particles emitting in the near infrared region are obtained in one-pot synthesis. → We prove the capacity of such particles to uptake hydrophobic dye to mimic drug loading. → Loaded fluorescent particles can be moved under a magnetic field in a microfluidic

  5. Free-standing sub-10 nm nanostencils for the definition of gaps in plasmonic antennas.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Duan, Huigao; Hu, Hailong; Hui, Hui Kim; Shen, Zexiang; Yang, Joel K W

    2013-05-10

    Nanogaps between metal nanostructures are useful in localizing optical energy in plasmonic antennas, but are challenging to directly pattern. Patterning with the positive-tone polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resist causes an undesirable spread in nanogap dimensions. On the other hand, the negative-tone hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) resist possesses the high resolution suited for the definition of nanogaps. However, it requires a hydrofluoric acid solution for liftoff, making it incompatible with the quartz or glass substrates used in optical devices. In this work, we created free-standing nanostencils in HSQ with sub-10 nm dimensions onto PMMA supports, which allow liftoff in organic solvents, thus extending this method to a broad range of substrate materials. The cross-sectional profiles of the nanogaps formed between the gold nanostructures were imaged in a transmission electron microscope and measured to be ~8 nm. We demonstrated the utility of this process in fabricating entire arrays of dimer nanostructures with sub-10 nm gaps. Using a surface enhanced Raman scattering setup, an order of magnitude increase in peak intensity was observed when the fields in the gap were resonantly excited compared to when the fields were localized at the corners of the nanostructures.

  6. Synthesis of metals chalcogenides nano-particles from H{sub 2}X (X=S, Se, Te) produced electrochemically; Synthese de nanoparticules de chalcogenures de metaux a partir de H{sub 2}X (X=S, Se, Te) produit electrochimiquement

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bastide, S.; Tena-Zaera, R.; Alleno, E.; Godart, C.; Levy-Clement, C. [Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Lab. de Chimie Metallurgique des Terres Rares, 94 - Thiais (France); Hodes, G. [Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot (Israel)

    2006-07-01

    In this work, an electrochemical method to produce H{sub 2}X (X=S, Se, Te) hydrides in a controlled way (without being able to store them) and to transfer them directly in the synthesis reactor has been perfected. By this method, the use of H{sub 2}Te has been possible. The method uses the reduction of the elementary chalcogenide in acid medium. The Te being conductor, it can be directly used as electrode, on the other hand S and Se are insulators. Nevertheless, graphite-S or Se conducing composite electrodes can also be used. When the electrolyte composition (pH, salts presence) is well adjusted, the essential of the cathodic current is consumed by the chalcogenide reduction (low evolution of H{sub 2}) with faradic yields of about 100% for H{sub 2}S and H{sub 2}Se and 40% for HeTe. The use of H{sub 2}X allows the synthesis of nano-particles of metals chalcogenides directly by reaction with dissolved metallic salts in aqueous or organic medium and precipitation. Thus it has been possible to prepare all the CdX compounds under the form of nano-particles of diameter between 3 and 5 nm by bubbling of the gaseous hydrides in aqueous acetate solutions of Cd. In producing concomitantly H{sub 2}S and H{sub 2}Se, nano-particles of solid solutions CdS{sub x}Se{sub 1-x} have been synthesized too. (O.M.)

  7. Electrochemical evaluation of La{sub 0.6}Sr{sub 0.4}CoO{sub 3}-La{sub 0.45}Ce{sub 0.55}O{sub 2} composite cathodes for anode-supported La{sub 0.45}Ce{sub 0.55}O{sub 2}-La{sub 0.9}Sr{sub 0.1}Ga{sub 0.8}Mg{sub 0.2}O{sub 2.85} bilayer electrolyte solid oxide fuel cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bi, Zhonghe; Cheng, Mojie; Dong, Yonglai; Wu, Hejin; She, Yunchuan; Yi, Baolian [Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China)

    2005-02-28

    The electrochemical properties of porous composite cathodes of La{sub 0.6}Sr{sub 0.4}CoO{sub 3} (LSC) and La{sub 0.45}Ce{sub 0.55}O{sub 2} (LDC) in anode supported lanthanum-doped ceria (LDC)/lanthanum gallate (LSGM) bilayer electrolyte single cells have been investigated. The composite cathodes with different LDC and LSC contents were in contact with the LSGM layer in the single cells. Comparing with the pure LSC cathode, the interfacial resistance decreased upon the addition of LDC and the optimum content of LDC was 50 wt.%. The variation in ohmic resistance suggests that the composite cathode can suppress Co diffusion from the cathode into the LSGM electrolyte during the firing of the composite cathode onto the electrolyte. The composite cathode with 50 wt.% LDC showed an ohmic resistance near to the calculated resistance of an electrolyte film. For the pure LSC cathode, the optimum firing temperature was about 1150 {sup o}C, at which both the electrolyte resistance and interface resistance were the smallest. The cathodic interfacial resistance was effectively reduced for the composite cathodes, especially for the cathode with 50 wt.% LDC, which might be due to the suppressing of sintering and the growth of LSC particles from LDC particles during the firing onto the electrolyte. The complicated effects of the composite cathode on the interfacial resistance and ohmic resistance resulted in the best single cell performance at 650 {sup o}C with a 50 wt.% LDC composite cathode, and the best cell performance above 700 {sup o}C on the single cell with pure LSC cathode.

  8. Structural and morphological characterization of TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} powders obtained by the polymeric precursors method; Caracterizacao estrutural e morfologica de pos de TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} obtidos pelo metodo dos precursores polimericos

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ribeiro, M.A.; Gama, L.; Bispo, A.; Neiva, L.S., E-mail: m_aparecidaribeiro@yahoo.com.b [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (DEMa/UFCG), PB (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais; Bernardi, M.I.B. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (IFSC/USP), Sao Carlos, SP (Brazil). Inst. de Fisica; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (DEMa/UFSCar), SP (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais

    2010-07-01

    This work aims to characterize the structure and morphology of TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} powders obtained by polymeric precursor method. For this we studied the following compositions: 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 moles of Zr and calcined at 800 deg C for one hour. The powders obtained were characterized by XRD, SEM and nitrogen adsorption (BET). The analysis of X-ray diffraction showed that the powders had a phase of TiO{sub 2} in the anatase form and a tetragonal phase of ZrO{sub 2}. The crystallite size was between 8, 13 and 11 nm respectively. The analysis of scanning electron microscopy showed the growth of ZrO{sub 2} nanoparticles and that these comprise spherical agglomerates of less than 100 nm. Particle size determined by the BET ranging 28.1-29.5 nm, showing thereby the character of nanosized powders. (author)

  9. Superior hydrogen storage kinetics of MgH{sub 2} nanoparticles doped with TiF{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xie, L. [Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China); Liu, Y. [Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China); Wang, Y.T. [Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China); Zheng, J. [Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China); Li, X.G. [Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China) and College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871 (China)]. E-mail: xgli@pku.edu.cn

    2007-08-15

    MgH{sub 2} nanoparticles were obtained by hydriding ultrafine magnesium particles which were prepared by hydrogen plasma-metal reaction. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results show that the obtained sample is almost pure MgH{sub 2} phase, without residual magnesium and with an average particle size of {approx}300 nm. Milled with 5 wt.% TiF{sub 3} as a doping precursor in a hydrogen atmosphere, the sample desorbed 4.5 wt.% hydrogen in 6 min under an initial hydrogen pressure of {approx}0.001 bar at 573 K and absorbed 4.2 wt.% hydrogen in 1 min under {approx}20 bar hydrogen at room temperature. Compared with MgH{sub 2} micrometer particles doped with 5 wt.% TiF{sub 3} under the same conditions as the MgH{sub 2} nanoparticles, it is suggested that decrease of particle size is beneficial for enhancing absorption capacity at low temperatures, but has no effect on desorption. In addition, the catalyst was mainly responsible for improving the sorption kinetics and its catalytic mechanism is discussed.

  10. Optimizing magnetic anisotropy of La{sub 1−x}Sr{sub x}MnO{sub 3} nanoparticles for hyperthermia applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rashid, Amin ur [Magnetism Laboratory, Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Department of Applied Physical and Material Sciences, University of Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan); Manzoor, Sadia, E-mail: sadia_manzoor@comsats.edu.pk [Magnetism Laboratory, Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan)

    2016-12-15

    Maximizing the magnetothermal response of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP's) for hyperthermia applications is a complex problem, because it depends sensitively upon interrelated magnetic and structural parameters. The task is somewhat simpler for systems with fixed composition, e.g. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} or CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}, in which the particle size is the only means of modifying the magnetic anisotropy, and hence the magnetothermal response. In the La{sub 1−x}Sr{sub x}MnO{sub 3} system however, the magnetic interactions as well as the particle size both change with the Sr concentration x, which makes it a much more complex system for which to optimize the hyperthermia response. We have investigated the effect of magnetic anisotropy on the magnetothermal response of La{sub 1−x}Sr{sub x}MnO{sub 3} nanoparticles as a function of the particle size as well as the Sr concentration x where 0.20≤x≤0.45. The optimum particle size range is 25–30 nm for all concentrations, where the specific absorption rate (SAR) has a maximum. The linear response theory (LRT) has been applied to this system and good agreement has been found between the experimental and theoretically determined values of the SAR for samples lying in the single domain regime and having large enough anisotropy energies. The agreement is much better for the intermediate concentrations of 0.27 and 0.33, because of their large anisotropy as compared to other concentrations. It is concluded that the LRT can be successfully used to predict the SAR of these nanoparticles, provided they possess large enough effective anisotropies. Values of the ILP have been obtained for these samples and found to be comparable to those of magnetite and some commercial ferrofluids. - Highlights: • For La{sub 1-x}Sr{sub x}MnO{sub 3} system, the magnetic anisotropy is determined not only by the particle size, but also by the strontium content x, we made a systematic study of both these parameters on its magnetothermal

  11. Effects of biodiesel, engine load and diesel particulate filter on nonvolatile particle number size distributions in heavy-duty diesel engine exhaust

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Young, Li-Hao, E-mail: lhy@mail.cmu.edu.tw [Department of Occupational Safety and Health, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan (China); Liou, Yi-Jyun [Department of Occupational Safety and Health, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan (China); Cheng, Man-Ting [Department of Environmental Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, 250, Kuo-Kuang Road, Taichung 40254, Taiwan (China); Lu, Jau-Huai [Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, 250, Kuo-Kuang Road, Taichung 40254, Taiwan (China); Yang, Hsi-Hsien [Department of Environmental Engineering and Management, Chaoyang University of Technology, 168, Jifeng E. Road, Taichung 41349, Taiwan (China); Tsai, Ying I. [Department of Environmental Engineering and Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, 60, Sec. 1, Erh-Jen Road, Tainan 71710, Taiwan (China); Wang, Lin-Chi [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Cheng Shiu University, 840, Chengcing Road, Kaohsiung 83347, Taiwan (China); Chen, Chung-Bang [Fuel Quality and Engine Performance Research, Refining and Manufacturing Research Institute, Chinese Petroleum Corporation, 217, Minsheng S. Road, Chiayi 60036, Taiwan (China); Lai, Jim-Shoung [Department of Occupational Safety and Health, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan (China)

    2012-01-15

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The effects of waste cooking oil biodiesel, engine load and DOC + DPF on nonvolatile particle size distributions in HDDE exhaust. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Increasing biodiesel blends cause slight decreases in the total particle number concentrations and negligible changes in size distributions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Increasing load results in modest increases in both the total particle number concentrations and sizes. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The effects of semivolatile materials are strongest at idle, during which nonvolatile cores <16 nm were observed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The DOC + DPF shows remarkable filtration efficiency for both the core and soot particles, irrespective of biodiesel blend and load. - Abstract: Diesel engine exhaust contains large numbers of submicrometer particles that degrade air quality and human health. This study examines the number emission characteristics of 10-1000 nm nonvolatile particles from a heavy-duty diesel engine, operating with various waste cooking oil biodiesel blends (B2, B10 and B20), engine loads (0%, 25%, 50% and 75%) and a diesel oxidation catalyst plus diesel particulate filter (DOC + DPF) under steady modes. For a given load, the total particle number concentrations (N{sub TOT}) decrease slightly, while the mode diameters show negligible changes with increasing biodiesel blends. For a given biodiesel blend, both the N{sub TOT} and mode diameters increase modestly with increasing load of above 25%. The N{sub TOT} at idle are highest and their size distributions are strongly affected by condensation and possible nucleation of semivolatile materials. Nonvolatile cores of diameters less than 16 nm are only observed at idle mode. The DOC + DPF shows remarkable filtration efficiency for both the core and soot particles, irrespective of the biodiesel blend and engine load under study. The N{sub TOT} post the DOC + DPF are comparable to typical ambient levels of

  12. Formation of nanoparticles and defects in YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-{delta}} prepared by the metal organic deposition process

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Goswami, R. [Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375 (United States); SAIC, Washington, DC 20003 (United States)], E-mail: goswami@anvil.nrl.navy.mil; Holtz, R.L. [Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375 (United States); Rupich, M.W. [American Superconductors Inc., Westborough, MA 01581 (United States); Spanos, G. [Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375 (United States)

    2007-11-15

    Nanoparticles and defects have been investigated using transmission electron microscopy in fully reacted YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-{delta}} (YBCO), prepared by the metal-organic deposition (MOD) process. Two types of particles, Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and CuY{sub 2}O{sub 5}, ranging from 10 to 100 nm, have been observed in the YBCO matrix. The YBCO contains a large number of planar defects and a considerable number of (1 1 0) rotational twins. Details of the nanoparticles and defects in the MOD-processed YBCO films are presented in this paper.

  13. Sr{sub 1.98}Eu{sub 0.02}SiO{sub 4} luminescence whisker based on vapor-phase deposition: Facile synthesis, uniform morphology and enhanced luminescence properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xu, Jian, E-mail: xujian@stu.xmu.edu.cn [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Hassan, Dhia A. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Department of Chemistry, College of Education for Pure Science, University of Basrah, 61004 (Iraq); Zeng, Renjie; Peng, Dongliang [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Fujian Key Lab of Advanced Special Material, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005 (China); Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramic Fibers, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361005 (China)

    2015-11-15

    Highlights: • For the first time, it is possible to obtain Sr{sub 1.98}Eu{sub 0.02}SiO{sub 4} whisker. • The whiskers are smooth and uniform with L/D ratio over 50. • Durability and thermal stability of the whisker are enhanced. - Abstract: A high performance strontium silicate phosphor has been successfully synthesized though a facile vapor-phase deposition method. The product consists of single crystal whiskers which are smooth and uniform, and with a sectional equivalent diameter of around 5 μm; the aspect ratio is over 50 and no agglomeration can be observed. X-ray diffraction result confirmed that the crystal structure of the whisker was α’-Sr{sub 2}SiO{sub 4}. The exact chemical composition was Sr{sub 1.98}Eu{sub 0.02}SiO{sub 4} which was analyzed by energy dispersive spectrometer and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer. The whisker shows broad green emission with peak at 523 nm ranging from 470 to 600 nm (excited at 370 nm). Compared with traditional Sr{sub 2}SiO{sub 4}:Eu phosphor, durability (at 85% humidity and 85 °C) and thermal stability of the whisker are obviously improved. Moreover, growth mechanism of the Sr{sub 1.98}Eu{sub 0.02}SiO{sub 4} whiskers is Vapor–Liquid–Solid. On a macro-scale, the product is still powder which makes it suitable for the current packaging process of WLEDs.

  14. Effect of ball milling and dynamic compaction on magnetic properties of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/Co(P) composite particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Denisova, E. A. [Kirensky Institute of Physics SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk (Russian Federation); Krasnoyarsk Institute of Railways Transport, Krasnoyarsk (Russian Federation); Kuzovnikova, L. A. [Krasnoyarsk Institute of Railways Transport, Krasnoyarsk (Russian Federation); Iskhakov, R. S., E-mail: rauf@iph.krasn.ru; Eremin, E. V. [Kirensky Institute of Physics SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk (Russian Federation); Bukaemskiy, A. A. [Institut fur Sicherheitsforschung und Reaktortechnik, D-52425 Juelich (Germany); Nemtsev, I. V. [Krasnoyarsk Scientific Center SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk (Russian Federation)

    2014-05-07

    The evolution of the magnetic properties of composite Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/Co(P) particles during ball milling and dynamic compaction is investigated. To prepare starting composite particles, the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} granules were coated with a Co{sub 95}P{sub 5} shell by electroless plating. The magnetic and structural properties of the composite particles are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and the use of the Physical Property Measurement System. The use of composite core-shell particles as starting powder for mechanoactivation allows to decrease treatment duration to 1 h and to produce a more homogeneous bulk sample than in the case of the mixture of Co and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders. The magnetic properties of the milled composite particles are correlated with changes in the microstructure. Reduction in grain size of Co during milling leads to an increase of the volume fraction of superparamagnetic particles and to a decrease of the saturation magnetization. The local magnetic anisotropy field depends on the amount of hcp-Co phase in sample. The anisotropy field value decreases from 8.4 kOe to 3.8 kOe with an increase in milling duration up to 75 min. The regimes of dynamic compaction were selected so that the magnetic characteristics—saturation magnetization and coercive field—remained unchanged.

  15. Observation of mesoscopic structure in NdBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 7 sub - subdelta by small-angle neutron scattering

    CERN Document Server

    Miyata, S; Suzuki, J I; Kuroda, K; Koshizuka, N

    2003-01-01

    In order to clarify the origin of the high critical current density (J sub c) of NdBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 7 sub - subdelta (Nd123), we investigated the inhomogeneities in this material by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) experiments. As a result of numerical calculations, it was found that the anisotropic scattering patterns and radial intensity profiles can be explained by the existence of elliptic cylindrical objects of which the cylindrical axis is parallel to the crystallographic c-axis. Long and short elliptic axis lengths and the height of the elliptic cylinders in the high-J sub c sample are about 400, 200 and 100 nm, and those of the low-J sub c sample are about 200, 100 and 50 nm. Since these two samples have been heat-treated in different manners, it is suggested that sizes of the elliptic cylinders are affected by the heat treatments and this change in scale, as a result, increases or decreases the J sub c characteristics of the samples. (author)

  16. Particle size distribution of UO sub 2 aerosols

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Raghunath, B. (Radiation Safety Systems Div., BARC, Bombay (India)); Ramachandran, R.; Majumdar, S. (Radiometallurgy Div., BARC, Bombay (India))

    1991-12-01

    The Anderson cascade impactor has been used to determine the activity mean aerodynamic diameter and the particle size distribution of UO{sub 2} powders dispersed in the form of stable aerosols in an air medium. The UO{sub 2} powders obtained by the calcination of ammonium uranyl carbonate (AUC) and ammonium diuranate (ADU) precipitates have been used. (orig./MM).

  17. Effects of calcination temperature on phase formation and particle size of Zn{sub 2}Nb{sub 34}O{sub 87} powder synthesized by solid-state reaction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Amonpattaratkit, Penphitcha, E-mail: p.amonpattaratkit@gmail.com [Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand); Ananta, Supon, E-mail: suponananta@yahoo.com [Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand)

    2013-05-15

    The solid-state mixed oxide method via a rapid vibro-milling technique was explored for the preparation of single-phase Zn{sub 2}Nb{sub 34}O{sub 87} nanopowders. Phase formation of zinc niobate was investigated as a function of calcination temperature by using a combination of thermogravimetric/differential thermal analyzer (TG/DTA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Morphology, particle size and chemical composition of the powders were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) technique. The obtained results clearly revealed the influences of calcination temperature on phase formation and particle size of Zn{sub 2}Nb{sub 34}O{sub 87} nanopowder. - Highlights: ► Single phase Zn{sub 2}Nb{sub 34}O{sub 87} was firstly prepared by solid-state mixed oxide method via a rapid vibro-milling technique. ► The influences of calcination temperature on phase formation and particle size were investigated. ► Zn{sub 2}Nb{sub 34}O{sub 87} powders were characterized by TG–DTA, XRD, SEM and EDX.

  18. Highly stable palladium-loaded TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode for the electrocatalytic hydrodehalogenation of polychlorinated biphenyls

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cui, Chunyue; Wu, Juan; Xin, Yanjun [Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao (China); Han, Yanhe [Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing (China)

    2015-06-15

    Palladized TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode was prepared for the electrocatalytic hydrodehalogenation (HDH) of 2,4,5-trichlorobiphenyl (2,4,5-PCB). The TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode was successfully fabricated by anodic oxidation method, and Pd was loaded onto the TiO{sub 2} nanotubes by electrochemical deposition. The morphology and structure of the nanotube array electrodes with and without Pd catalysts were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that the diameters and lengths of the TiO{sub 2} nanotubes were 30-50 nm and 200-400 nm, respectively. The particle size of the Pd was about 12 nm. Electrocatalytic HDH of 2,4,5-PCB with the Pd/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode was performed in H-cell reactor. Under a constant potential of -1.0 V, the HDH efficiency of 2,4,5-PCB was 90% and the biphenyl yield was 83% (15% current efficiency) within 180min at the Pd/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode. Compared with the Pd/Ti electrode, the Pd/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array electrode exhibited higher HDH efficiency and stability. Additionally, the effect of the primary HDH factors was also investigated.

  19. Study on CO{sub 2} absorption enhancement by adding active carbon particles into MEA solution

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Qian, Juan; Sun, Rui; Ma, Lian; Sun, Shaozeng [Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin (China). School of Energy Science and Engineering

    2013-07-01

    The chemical absorption of CO{sub 2} is generally recognized as the most efficient post-combustion technology of CO{sub 2} separation at present. A study on CO{sub 2} absorption enhancement by adding small particles of active carbon into MEA solution is investigated within a self-designed glass stirring tank. Experiments of different particle loadings and different particle sizes have been conducted. When active carbon particle concentration is fewer, compared to the absorption rate of CO{sub 2} gas absorbed by MEA aqueous solution, the role of active carbon adsorption CO{sub 2} gas is negligible. The enhancement efficiency of CO{sub 2} absorption could be improved by 10% to the upmost in this liquid-particle system.

  20. Luminescence characterization of sol-gel derived Pr{sup 3+} doped NaGd(WO{sub 4}){sub 2} phosphors for solid state lighting applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Durairajan, A., E-mail: durairajan.a@gmail.com [Crystal Growth Centre, Anna University, Chennai, 600025 (India); I3N-Aveiro, Department of Physics, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810 193 (Portugal); Thangaraju, D. [Research Institute of Electronics, Shizuoka University, 3-5-1 Johoku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 432-8011 (Japan); Moorthy Babu, S. [Crystal Growth Centre, Anna University, Chennai, 600025 (India); Valente, M.A. [I3N-Aveiro, Department of Physics, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810 193 (Portugal)

    2016-08-15

    In the present work, xPr{sup 3+}:NaGd(WO{sub 4}){sub 2} (0.5 ≤ x ≤ 5.0 mol%) sub-micron phosphors were synthesised by sol-gel method. Low cost precursors of metal nitrates and low temperature thermal treatment was used compared to conventional solid state reaction. The formation of highly crystalline phosphors with tetragonal structure was confirmed by XRD and increase of Pr{sup 3+} ions content in host matrix leads to expansion of the unit cell volume. The surface morphology, size and particle distribution of the phosphors were observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). A rectangular shape particle with a size distribution ranging from 400 to 600 nm and tightly packed surface was seen in FE-SEM micrographs. The various internal and external phonon modes vibration corresponding to double tungstate structure was observed in Raman spectra. The optical properties of the synthesised phosphors were explored by ultraviolet visible (UV–Vis) absorption in diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. UV–Vis measurements distinguished the host and Pr{sup 3+} absorption and also reveal an increase in optical band gap values with an increase of Pr{sup 3+}. The PL measurements show various emissions from green and red regions under 450 nm. The maximum intensity emission at 489 nm is due to {sup 3}P{sub 0} → {sup 3}H{sub 4} transition of Pr{sup 3+}. From the maximum emission the critical doping concentration was calculated to be at 3.5 mol% and critical distance between two adjacent Pr{sup 3+} ions as 20.43 Å. - Highlights: • A sol-gel method was used to prepare Pr{sup 3+} doped NaGd(WO{sub 4}){sub 2} at low temperature. • Structural, spectroscopic, morphological, and optical and luminescence properties were studied. • The praseodymium ions are in trivalent state, the site symmetry is distorted and S{sub 4} local symmetry with Na{sup +} ions. • Strong green emission was observed under UV and visible excitation.

  1. Kinetics of gas to particle conversion in the NH/sub 3/-Chl system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Luria, M; Cohen, B

    1980-01-01

    Particle formation in the reaction of NH/sub 3/ and Chl under 1 atm of N/sub 2/ and at 25/sup 0/C was studied in a flow reactor. The critical concentration below which NO particle can be formed was found to be 3.5 x 10/sup +14/ molecule/CM/sup 3/ for (NH/sub 3/)=(HCl). Above this concentration, gas-particle conversion percentage increases rapidly to approach 100%.

  2. Low-cost fabrication of WO{sub 3} films using a room temperature and low-vacuum air-spray based deposition system for inorganic electrochromic device applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Park, Sung-Ik [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Sooyeun, E-mail: sooyeunk@u.washington.edu [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA (United States); Choi, Jung-Oh; Song, Ji-Hyeon [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Taya, Minoru [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA (United States); Ahn, Sung-Hoon, E-mail: ahnsh@snu.ac.kr [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-08-31

    We report the deposition of tungsten oxide (WO{sub 3}) thin films on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and indium-doped tin oxide (ITO) glass substrates by using a room-temperature deposition system based on low-vacuum air-spray for the fabrication of inorganic electrochromic windows. The structure of the WO{sub 3} films was characterized using X-ray diffraction, and the surface morphology and film thickness were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The color of the prepared WO{sub 3} films changed from slight yellow to dark blue under applied voltages, demonstrating electrochromism. The WO{sub 3} film coated FTO glass exhibited a large electrochromic contrast of up to 50% at a wavelength of 800 nm. The electrochemical properties of the films were examined using cyclic voltammetry and chronocoulometry. - Highlights: • WO{sub 3} thin films were fabricated using an air-spray based deposition system at room temperature under low-vacuum conditions. • Dry WO{sub 3} particles were directly deposited on FTO and ITO glasses by using a low-cost deposition system. • The FTO glass based WO{sub 3} film showed the optical contrast of 50% at a wavelength of 800 nm.

  3. Densification of ∼5 nm-thick SiO{sub 2} layers by nitric acid oxidation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Choi, Jaeyoung [Department of Energy Engineering, Dankook University, Cheonan 311-16 (Korea, Republic of); Joo, Soyeong [Institute for Advanced Engineering (IAE), Advanced Materials & Processing Center, Youngin 449-863 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Tae Joo [Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Woo-Byoung, E-mail: woo7838@dankook.ac.kr [Department of Energy Engineering, Dankook University, Cheonan 311-16 (Korea, Republic of)

    2017-08-15

    Highlights: • Leakage current density of the commercial PECVD grown ∼5 nm SiO{sub 2} layer has been decreased about three orders of magnitude by densification. • The densification of SiO{sub 2} layer is achieved by high oxidation ability of O·. • Densities of suboxide, fixed charge (N{sub f}) and defect state (N{sub d}) in SiO{sub 2}/Si interface are decreased by NAOS and PMA. • Tunneling barrier height (Φ{sub t}) is increased because of the increase of atomic density in SiO{sub 2} layer. - Abstract: Low-temperature nitric acid (HNO{sub 3}) oxidation of Si (NAOS) has been used to improve the interface and electrical properties of ∼5 nm-thick SiO{sub 2}/Si layers produced by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Investigations of the physical properties and electrical characteristics of these thin films revealed that although their thickness is not changed by NAOS, the leakage current density at a gate bias voltage of −1 V decreases by about two orders of magnitude from 1.868 × 10{sup −5} A/cm{sup 2}. This leakage current density was further reduced by post-metallization annealing (PMA) at 250 °C for 10 min in a 5 vol.% hydrogen atmosphere, eventually reaching a level (5.2 × 10{sup −8} A/cm{sup 2}) approximately three orders of magnitude less than the as-grown SiO{sub 2} layer. This improvement is attributed to a decrease in the concentration of suboxide species (Si{sup 1+}, Si{sup 2+} and Si{sup 3+}) in the SiO{sub 2}/Si interface, as well as a decrease in the equilibrium density of defect sites (N{sub d}) and fixed charge density (N{sub f}). The barrier height (Φ{sub t}) generated by a Poole-Frenkel mechanism also increased from 0.205 to 0.371 eV after NAOS and PMA. The decrease in leakage current density is therefore attributed to a densification of the SiO{sub 2} layer in combination with the removal of OH species and increase in interfacial properties at the SiO{sub 2}/Si interface.

  4. Two-step preparation of nano-scaled magnetic chitosan particles using Triton X-100 reversed-phase water-in-oil microemulsion system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhou, Zhengkun; Jiang, Feihong [College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 (China); Lee, Tung-Ching, E-mail: lee@aesop.rutgers.edu [Department of Food Science, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, 65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (United States); Yue, Tianli, E-mail: yuetl305@nwsuaf.edu.cn [College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A and F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100 (China)

    2013-12-25

    Highlights: •A new two-step route for nano-scaled magnetic chitosan particles preparation. •Triton X-100 reversed-phase microemulsion system was used for chitosan coating. •Narrow size distribution of magnetic chitosan nanoparticles was achieved. •Quantitative evaluation of recoverability for the magnetic chitosan nanoparticles. -- Abstract: A new two-step route for the preparation of nano-scaled magnetic chitosan particles has been developed, different from reported one-step in situ preparation and two-step preparation method of reversed-phase suspension, Triton X-100 reversed-phase water-in-oil microemulsion encapsulation method was employed in coating the pre-prepared Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with chitosan. The resultant magnetic chitosan particles owned a narrow size distribution ranging from 50 to 92 nm. X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD) indicated that the chitosan coating procedure did not change the spinal structure of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} magnetic nanoparticles. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated that the chitosan was coated on Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles and its average mass content was ∼50%. The saturated magnetization of the magnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/chitosan nanoparticles reached 18.62 emu/g, meanwhile, the nanoparticles showed the characteristics of superparamagnetism. The magnetic chitosan nanoparticles showed a high recoverability of 99.99% in 10 min when pH exceeded 4. The results suggested that the as-prepared magnetic chitosan particles were nano-scaled with a narrow size distribution and a high recoverability.

  5. Mössbauer studies of stoichiometry of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}: characterization of nanoparticles for biomedical applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Johnson, C. E., E-mail: cjohnson@utsi.edu; Johnson, J. A.; Hah, H. Y.; Cole, M.; Gray, S. [University of Tennessee Space Institute, Center for Laser Applications (United States); Kolesnichenko, V. [Xavier University, Department of Chemistry (United States); Kucheryavy, P. [Rutgers University, Department of Chemistry (United States); Goloverda, G. [Xavier University, Department of Chemistry (United States)

    2016-12-15

    The iron oxide Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, the mineral magnetite sometimes called ferrosoferric oxide, is notoriousy non-stoichiometric even in bulk form so its formula may be written Fe{sub 3−δ}O{sub 4}. In nanoparticle form, where it has applications in medicine and information technology, it is even more susceptible to oxidation. In this paper we report synthesis and studies of superparamagnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with controlled diameters of 5.3, 10.6 and 11.9 nm. In room temperature spectra, departures from stoichiometry δ of up to 0.02 were estimated from the relative amounts of Fe {sup 3+}/ Fe {sup 2+} and from their isomer shifts. This cannot be used for very small particles of diameter 10.6 nm and less as they are superparamagnetic at room temperature and do not show hyperfine splitting owing to fast relaxation. Such particles have promise for use in enhancing MRI signals. The magnetic spectrum is restored by the application of a relatively small magnetic field (10 kG). As the temperature is lowered the relaxation slows down and 6-line magnetic hyperfine patterns appear below a blocking temperature T{sub B}. The values of T{sub B} obtained are lower than those of many other researchers reported in the literature, suggesting that our particles are less affected by magnetic interactions between them. At low temperatures all the spectra are similar and closely resemble that of bulk Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} confirming that departures from stoichiometry are small.

  6. Hygroscopic properties of atmospheric aerosol particles over the Eastern Mediterranean: implications for regional direct radiative forcing under clean and polluted conditions

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Stock

    2011-05-01

    Full Text Available This work examines the effect of direct radiative forcing of aerosols in the eastern Mediterranean troposphere as a function of air mass composition, particle size distribution and hygroscopicity, and relative humidity (RH. During intensive field measurements on the island of Crete, Greece, the hygroscopic properties of atmospheric particles were determined using a Hygroscopicity Tandem Differential Mobility Analyzer (H-TDMA and a Hygroscopicity Differential Mobility Analyzer-Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (H-DMA-APS. Similar to former studies, the H-TDMA identified three hygroscopic sub-fractions of particles in the sub-μm range: a more hygroscopic group, a less hygroscopic group and a nearly hydrophobic particle group. The average hygroscopic particle growth factors at 90 % RH were a significant function of particle mobility diameter (D<sub>p>: 1.42 (± 0.05 at 30 nm compared to 1.63 (± 0.07 at 250 nm. The H-DMA-APS identified up to three hygroscopic sub-fractions at mobility diameters of 1.0 and 1.2 μm. The data recorded between 12 August and 20 October 2005 were classified into four distinct synoptic-scale air mass types distinguishing between different regions of origin (western Mediterranean vs. the Aegean Sea as well as the degree of continental pollution (marine vs. continentally influenced. The hygroscopic properties of particles with diameter D<sub>p>≥150 nm showed the most pronounced dependency on air mass origin, with growth factors in marine air masses exceeding those in continentally influenced air masses. Particle size distributions and hygroscopic growth factors were used to calculate aerosol light scattering coefficients at ambient RH using a Mie model. A main result was the pronounced enhancement of particle scattering over the eastern Mediterranean due to hygroscopic growth, both in the marine and continentally influenced air masses. When RH reached its summer daytime values around 70

  7. Large-area growth of multi-layered MoS{sub 2} for violet (∝405 nm) photodetector applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Soo Hyun; Kim, Sanghun; Lee, Seunghyun; Yu, Jae Su [Department of Electronic Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Gyeonggi-do (Korea, Republic of)

    2017-10-15

    The two-dimensional multi-layered molybdenum disulfide (MoS{sub 2}) was grown over a large area by chemical vapor deposition process for violet (∝405 nm) photodetector (PD) applications. The high-quality MoS{sub 2} layers were successfully fabricated and transferred on HfO{sub 2}/Si substrate. The inherent surface structure originated from the surface oxidation was also analyzed. The electrical properties of the multi-layered MoS{sub 2}-based violet PDs with various channel widths (W{sub ch}) were measured and compared under dark state and violet illumination operating at 405 nm. For the device with W{sub ch} of 4 μm, at the bias of -5 V, the photocurrent and on/off ratio were obtained to be 54.0 nA and 55.2, respectively. Under violet illumination, the photocurrent was ∝4.6 times higher compared to green illumination. At the bias of -5 V, the photoresponse properties of the device were characterized with average rise time and reset time of ∝55.7 and 46.0 s, respectively, during four cycles of operation. (copyright 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  8. Study of Pd-Sn/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalysts prepared by an oxide colloidal route; Etude de catalyseurs Pd-Sn/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} prepares par voie colloidale oxyde

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Verdier, St.

    2001-09-01

    The oxide colloidal route, developed in the laboratory for mono-metallic catalysts, consists in preparing a metallic oxide hydro-sol which leads to the supported catalyst after deposition onto a support and an activation stage. In this work, this method has been adapted to the preparation of alumina supported bimetallic Pd-Sn catalysts to determine its interest for the control of the properties of the bimetallic phase (size, composition and structure). In the preliminary study concerning tin oxide sols, SnO{sub 2} (size=2,3 nm) and Sn{sub 6}O{sub 4}(OH){sub 4} (size = 25 nm) nano-particles were synthesized by neutralization respectively for tin(IV) and tin(H). The control through the pH of the aggregation of the PdO and SnO{sub 2} particles revealed that increasing oxide solubility promotes integral re-dispersion of the oxide particles. To synthesize oxide bimetallic sols, three strategies were defined. Copolymerization (formation of a mixed oxide nano-sol by cross condensation of both metals) does not lead to a mixed oxide Pd-Sn phase. Surface precipitation (neutralization of the second metal in the presence of the first oxide sol) yields nano-particles of both oxides in close interaction. Adsorption (adsorption of the second metal onto the first oxide sol) significantly occurs when contacting tin with a basic PdO sol (hydrolytic adsorption). The characterization and the assessment of the catalytic properties (selective hydrogenation of buta-1,3-diene) of the catalysts prepared by deposition of oxide bimetallic sols showed that the oxide colloidal route allows the control of the properties of the supported bimetallic phase. Moreover, our results display that both Pd-Sn alloy formation and,aggregation of the metallic particles contribute to increase the selectivity for this reaction. (author)

  9. Synthesis and properties of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles processed in microwave system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Moura, Ana Paula de; Longo, Elson; Berger, Danielle; Varela, Jose A., E-mail: apdemoura@gmail.com [Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Araraquara, SP (Brazil). Instituto de Quimica; Rosa, Ieda Lucia Viana [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil); Li, Maximo Siu [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Carlos, SP (Brazil). Instituto de Fisica

    2016-07-01

    Full text: Indium oxide (In{sub 2}O{sub 3}), an n-type semiconductor with a wide band gap of about 3.6 eV, has been widely used as a solar cell, a window heater, materials for a flat panel display and gas sensors [1]. The domestic microwave oven (MO) has been successfully employed to obtain materials. In this work, In{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders were synthesized by the co-precipitation method and processed in microwave hydrothermal system at 100 deg C for 1 min, 30 min and 60 min. The materials samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis) as well as photoluminescence and photocatalytic properties. XRD patterns showed all peaks were indexed to the In{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase. These values are in agreement with as reported in the standard card (JCPDS No. 71-2194) indicating the single phase formation for all the analyzed samples, also in accordance to the Raman data. FE-SEM show that all materials are composed by spherical and aggregated particle with size of around 50-80 nm. The UV-Vis absorption spectra report was used to obtain a band gap of around 3.49 eV for all materials. PL spectra consist of a broad band at 420-600 nm, corresponding to a near-band edge emission related to the recombination of excitons and level emission related to structural defects. The photocatalytic properties of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} were studied and showed that these materials present good efficiency in the photocatalytic activity for degradation of Rhodamine. Reference: [1] F.V. Motta , R.C. Lima , A.P.A. Marques , E.R. Leite, J.A. Varela, E. Longo, Mater Res Bull 45 (2010) 1703-1706. (author)

  10. Key step in the synthesis of ultrafine strontium ferrite powders (SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}) by sol–gel method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nga, Tran Thi Viet, E-mail: vietnga@itims.edu.vn; Duong, Nguyen Phuc; Loan, To Thanh; Hien, Than Duc

    2014-10-15

    Highlights: • The variations in the properties of SrM powders, resulting from different parameter. • Appropriate pH, R{sub M} ratio, and T{sub ca} were adjusted to producing a single-phase nanosized SrM. • The average particle sizes were evenly distributed in the range of 80° nm to 100° nm. - Abstract: Submicron strontium hexaferrite (SrFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}) particles were synthesized using the sol–gel route. Magnetic properties and structure of strontium ferrite powders were studied at various ranges of calcination temperature (T{sub ca}) (750–900 °C), calcination time (3 min–2 h), Fe/Sr molar ratios (R{sub M}) (10.5–12), and pH (1–8). The resultant particles were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer. At 750 °C, the Sr–M phase could be obtained for 3 min in air. However, single-phase Sr–M, which had stabilized magnetic properties, was obtained at T{sub ca} of 850 °C for 2 h. In solutions at pH 1, magnetic properties of the obtained sample at R{sub M} = 10.5 were found to be optimal with maximum saturation magnetization of 56 emu/g and intrinsic coercive force of 6.7 kOe.

  11. Facile solution-precipitation assisted synthesis and luminescence property of greenish-yellow emitting Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ji, Haipeng [School of Materials Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083 (China); Huang, Zhaohui, E-mail: huang118@cugb.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083 (China); Xia, Zhiguo, E-mail: xiazg@ustb.edu.cn [The Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of New Energy Materials and Technologies, School of Materials Sciences and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Xie, Yao [School of Materials Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083 (China); Molokeev, Maxim S. [Laboratory of Crystal Physics, Kirensky Institute of Physics, SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk 660036 (Russian Federation); Department of Physics, Far Eastern State Transport University, Khabarovsk 680021 (Russian Federation); Atuchin, Victor V. [Laboratory of Optical Materials and Structures, Institute of Semiconductor Physics, SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630090 (Russian Federation); Functional Electronics Laboratory, Tomsk State University, Tomsk 634050 (Russian Federation); Laboratory of Semiconductor and Dielectric Materials, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090 (Russian Federation)

    2016-03-15

    Highlights: • Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor was prepared by the solution-precipitation assisted route. • The phosphors have satisfactory smooth grain surface and particle size. • It shows greenish-yellow color emission (maximum at 540 nm) upon blue light excitation. • Eu{sup 2+} is coordinated with isolated oxygen atoms and those from PO{sub 4} polyhedra. - Abstract: Greenish-yellow emitting microcrystalline Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor was successfully prepared by a solution-precipitation assisted high temperature reaction method. Phase structure, morphology and/or luminescence properties of the precursor and the as-prepared phosphors were characterized. The phase-pure Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O:Eu{sup 2+} phosphors were obtained with smooth grain surface and particle size of 2–8 μm. Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O:Eu{sup 2+} exhibits bright greenish-yellow color emission with its maximum at 540 nm upon UV-blue light excitation. The maximum position of the broad emission band is independent on the calcination temperature. The emission intensity increases with increasing calcination temperature due to improved crystallinity. Besides, the presence of two Eu{sup 2+} emission centers in the Ca{sub 6}Ba(PO{sub 4}){sub 4}O crystal lattice was confirmed and the coordination effects are considered concerning the roles of isolated O atoms and those from the PO{sub 4} tetrahedra.

  12. Effect of Al doping on structural and magnetic properties of Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Al{sub x}Sb{sub 13−x} alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ray, Mayukh K.; Bagani, K. [Surface Physics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata 700064 (India); Singh, R.K.; Majumdar, B. [Defense Metrological Research Laboratory, Hyderabad 500058 (India); Banerjee, S., E-mail: sangam.banerjee@saha.ac.in [Surface Physics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata 700064 (India)

    2014-09-01

    The Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Al{sub x}Sb{sub 13−x} (x=0, 1, 3 and 5) alloys were prepared by tri-arc melting technique. The replacement of Sb by Al increases the martensitic transformation temperature (T{sub M}) as well as ferromagnetic to paramagnetic transformation temperature (T{sub C}{sup A}) within the austenite phase. The increase in T{sub M} is found to due to the enhancement of hybridization between 3d states of Ni and Mn atoms. We also observed a large exchange bias field (H{sub EB}) of 470 Oe for x=0 and it decreases with the Al concentration for field cooled (FC) magnetic hysteresis loop. A large magnetic entropy change (ΔS{sub M}) of 10 J/kg-K is found for x=1 alloy under a field change (ΔH) of 50 kOe and it decreased for further higher concentration of Al doping. The possible reasons for observed behaviors are discussed.

  13. Crystal structure of superparamagnetic Mg{sub 0.2}Ca{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Escamilla-Pérez, A.M., E-mail: angel.mep@gmail.com [Cinvestav-Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica No. 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo-Ramos Arizpe, C.P. 25900, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila (Mexico); Cortés-Hernández, D.A., E-mail: dora.cortes@cinvestav.edu.mx [Cinvestav-Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica No. 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo-Ramos Arizpe, C.P. 25900, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila (Mexico); Almanza-Robles, J.M. [Cinvestav-Unidad Saltillo, Industria Metalúrgica No. 1062, Parque Industrial Saltillo-Ramos Arizpe, C.P. 25900, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila (Mexico); Mantovani, D.; Chevallier, P. [Laboratory for Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Department of Materials Engineering and University Hospital Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC (Canada)

    2015-01-15

    Powders of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Mg{sub 0.2}Ca{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) were prepared by a sol–gel method using ethylene glycol and nitrates of Fe, Ca and Mg as starting materials. Those powders were heat treated at different temperatures (573, 673, 773 and 873 K). In order to evaluate the effect of the heat treatment temperature on the nanoferrites properties, X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques were used. It was found that the reaction products exhibit nanometric sizes and superparamagnetic behavior. It is also demonstrated that, as the heat treatment temperature increases, the particle size and the saturation magnetization of the nanoferrites are increased. - Highlights: • Mg{sub 0.2}Ca{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} superparamagnetic nanoparticles were successfully synthesized. • Particle average sizes of Ca–Mg ferrites were within the range of 8–25 nm. • The nanoferrite treated at 873 K showed a stoichiometry close to Mg{sub 0.2}Ca{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. • The heat treatment temperature has a strong effect on the crystal structure. • These nanoparticles are potential materials for magnetic hyperthermia.

  14. Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of CuY{sub y}Fe{sub 2-y}O{sub 4}-CuCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposites for H{sub 2} evolution under visible light irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yan, Jianhui; Yang, Haihua; Yao, Maohai; Han, Yong [Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Shuyuan Load, Yueyang, Hunan 414000 (China); College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 (China); Tang, Yougen; Lu, Zhouguang [College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 (China); Zheng, Shuqin [Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Shuyuan Load, Yueyang, Hunan 414000 (China)

    2009-11-15

    Spinel-type CuY{sub y}Fe{sub 2-y}O{sub 4}-CuCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposites have been successfully synthesized via a facile citric acid (CA)-assisted sol-gel method. And the as-synthesized nanocomposites have been characterized by techniques of X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption BET method, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The samples are composed of primary ultrafine nanoparticles with nearly spherical morphology and mean particle size of about 80 nm. Moreover, the photocatalytic H{sub 2} evolution activity of the as-obtained samples has been evaluated from aqueous oxalic acid solution under visible light irradiation. The influence of photocatalyst type, calcination temperature, Y{sup 3+} doping content, and the durability of the as-obtained photocatalyst have been investigated in detail. The best photocatalytic H{sub 2} evolution activity was obtained over the as-synthesized CuY{sub 0.08}Fe{sub 1.92}O{sub 4}-CuCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposite. (author)

  15. FMR study of carbon nanotubes filled with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kopyl, S., E-mail: svitlanakopyl@ua.pt [NRD-TEMA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Aveiro Institute of Nanotechnology (AIN), University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Timopheev, A.A., E-mail: andreyt@ua.pt [Physics Department and I3N, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Bystrov, V.S. [Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering and CICECO, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Institute of Mathematical Problems of Biology RAS, 142290 Pushchino (Russian Federation); Bdikin, I. [NRD-TEMA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Aveiro Institute of Nanotechnology (AIN), University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Teixeira, B.M.S. [Physics Department and I3N, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Maevskij, E. [Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics RAS, 142290 Puschino (Russian Federation); Sobolev, N.A. [Physics Department and I3N, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal); Sousa, A.C.M. [NRD-TEMA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Aveiro Institute of Nanotechnology (AIN), University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193 (Portugal)

    2014-05-01

    Ordered arrays of carbon nanotubes were produced using a non-catalytic chemical vapour deposition. The multiwall nanotubes with an inner diameter of 120 nm were grown inside porous alumina templates and then filled with a magnetic colloid of 7.5 nm Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles. X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) were used to characterize structural and magnetic properties of the grown samples. To estimate the filling factor from the angular dependence of the FMR resonance field, we have derived an effective demagnetization factor for our system using the formalism proposed by Skomsky and Dubowik. Angular dependence of the FMR line width allows one to conclude about the non-uniform filling, while temperature dependent measurements reflect typical features of a superparamagnetic resonance. - Highlights: • Synthesis of CNTs inside of alumina membrane and filling it with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles. • X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy study of the samples. • Magnetic properties of the samples studied by FMR. • Filling factor has been determined from the angular dependences of FMR. • Resulted magnetic CNTs are attractive for production of magnetic nanofluids.

  16. Room temperature mechanosynthesis and microstructure characterization of nanocrystalline Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bandyopadhyay, S. [Department of Physics, The University of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan, 713104, West Bengal (India); Dutta, H. [Department of Physics, Vivekananda College, Burdwan, 713103, West Bengal (India); Kar, T. [Department of Materials Science, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata, 700032, West Bengal (India); Pradhan, S.K., E-mail: skp_bu@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, The University of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan, 713104, West Bengal (India)

    2016-02-01

    This article reports the synthesis and microstructure characterization of nanocrystalline Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C powder obtained by mechanical milling the mixture of Si, Al and graphite powders at room temperature under inert atmosphere. XRD patterns of ball-milled powders clearly reveal the nucleation of Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C phase after 5 h of milling and the stoichiometric cubic Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C is formed after 10 h of milling with crystallite size of ∼3 nm. Microstructure of ball-milled powders in terms of different lattice imperfections is characterized by employing both Rietveld's method of structure refinement using XRD data and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). HRTEM micrographs of 10 h milled powder substantiate the formation of nanocrystalline Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C compound without any contamination and confirm the findings of Rietveld analysis using XRD data. - Highlights: • Cubic Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C is formed after 5 h of milling of Si, Al and graphite powders. • Nanocrystalline Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C with particle size ∼3 nm is obtained after 10 h milling. • Average particle size of Si{sub 0.9}Al{sub 0.1}C from XRD analysis and HRTEM is very close.

  17. Structural and optical properties of Er{sup 3+} doped SiO{sub 2}–Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}–GeO{sub 2} compounds prepared by a simple route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Filho, Fausto M. Faria [Instituto de Física, Universidade Federal de Goiás-UFG, Campus II, Caixa Postal 131, CEP 74001-970 Goiânia, GO (Brazil); Gonçalves, Rogéria R. [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, SP (Brazil); Ribeiro, Sidney J.L. [Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University-UNESP, Rua Professor Francisco Degni, 55, CEP 14801-970 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Maia, Lauro J.Q., E-mail: lauro@ufg.br [Instituto de Física, Universidade Federal de Goiás-UFG, Campus II, Caixa Postal 131, CEP 74001-970 Goiânia, GO (Brazil)

    2015-04-15

    Highlights: • We developed a simple route to obtain gels and powders using GeO{sub 2}, TEOS and TMAH solution. • Al{sub 6}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 13} crystalline nanoparticles embedded in amorphous matrix were obtained. • The Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} enhance Er{sup 3+} dispersion in GeO{sub 2}–SiO{sub 2} increasing its emission and the full width at half maximum from 41 to 56 nm. • The {sup 4}I{sub 13/2} Er{sup 3+} level lifetime varies between 4.8 and 5.6 ms (1533 nm emission). - Abstract: Samples of (1 − x)[0.70SiO{sub 2} + 0.30Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}] + xGeO{sub 2} compositions, containing x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40 and 0.50, and doped with 1 mol% of Er{sup 3+}, were prepared by a mixed route (sol–gel process and Pechini method). Transparent gels were synthesized and homogeneous powders were obtained by heat treatments from 800 °C to 1050 °C. The final powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The optical properties were studied by photoluminescence measurements in the infrared region, and the average lifetime of the metastable state {sup 4}I{sub 13/2} of Er{sup 3+} ions and the full-width at half maximum (FWHM) were determined. A silica-rich amorphous phase and nanocrystallites with orthorhombic structure of Al{sub 6}Ge{sub 2}O{sub 13} phase were obtained. The samples present a broad emission centered at around 1532 nm under excitation at 977 nm, with a FWHM of 53 nm and a lifetime of 5.6 ms. The synthesized compounds by an easy chemical procedure are potentially applicable in integrated optical systems.

  18. Structural, magnetic and Moessbauer spectral studies of aluminum substituted Mg-Mn-Ni ferrites (Mg{sub 0.2}Mn{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.3}Al{sub y}Fe{sub 2-y}O{sub 4})

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Verma, Satish, E-mail: satishapurva@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Govt. P.G. College, Solan-173212 (India); Chand, Jagdish [Department of Physics, Govt. P.G. College, Solan-173212 (India); Batoo, Khalid Mujasam [King Abdullah Institute of Nanotechnology, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia); Singh, M. [Department of Physics, Himachal Pradesh University, Summer-Hill, Shimla-171005 (India)

    2013-02-25

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Single phase nanocrystalline Al{sup 3+} ions doped Mg-Mn-Ni ferrite have been synthesized by citrate precursor method. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Particle size decreases as non-magnetic Al content increases. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The presence of doublets in the Moessbauer spectra can be attributed to superparamagnetic relaxation. - Abstract: Nanocrystalline Al{sup 3+} ions doped Mg{sub 0.2}Mn{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.3}Al{sub y}Fe{sub 2-y}O{sub 4} compositions, where y = 0.0, 0.05 and 0.10 have been synthesized by citrate precursor method. Crystal structure and magnetic properties have been investigated at 300 K by means of X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and Moessbauer spectra measurements. XRD study reveals that particle size decreases from 102.25 nm to 41.65 nm. A decrease in lattice constant and saturation magnetization was attributed to smaller ionic radius of Al{sup 3+} ions and weakening of super exchange interaction. Experimental and X-ray density decrease with increasing aluminum concentration. Though Moessbauer spectra of y = 0.0 exhibit normal Zeeman split sextets, spectra of samples for y = 0.05 and 0.10 are characterized by simultaneous presence of a central paramagnetic doublet. Dependence of Moessbauer parameters such as isomer shift, quadrupole splitting, linewidth and hyperfine magnetic field on Al{sup 3+} ions concentration have been discussed. Initial permeability '{mu}{sub i}', saturation magnetization (4 {pi}M{sub S}), retentivity (M{sub R}), Bohr magneton number (n{sub B}{sup N}), magneto crystalline anisotropy constant (K{sub 1}) and magnetic loss decreases while coercivity (H{sub C}) increases with increasing substitution of Al{sup 3+} ions. Magnetic loss has very low value in the range of 10{sup -3} which is two orders of magnitude less than samples prepared by conventional method.

  19. Focusing of sub-micrometer particles and bacteria enabled by two-dimensional acoustophoresis

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Antfolk, M.; Muller, Peter Barkholt; Augustsson, P.

    2014-01-01

    Handling of sub-micrometer bioparticles such as bacteria are becoming increasingly important in the biomedical field and in environmental and food analysis. As a result, there is an increased need for less labor-intensive and time-consuming handling methods. Here, an acoustophoresis-based microfl......Handling of sub-micrometer bioparticles such as bacteria are becoming increasingly important in the biomedical field and in environmental and food analysis. As a result, there is an increased need for less labor-intensive and time-consuming handling methods. Here, an acoustophoresis......-based microfluidic chip that uses ultrasound to focus sub-micrometer particles and bacteria, is presented. The ability to focus sub-micrometer bioparticles in a standing one-dimensional acoustic wave is generally limited by the acoustic-streaming-induced drag force, which becomes increasingly significant the smaller...... particles as small as 0.5 μm in diameter in microchannels of square or rectangular cross sections, is demonstrated. Numerical analysis was used to determine generic transverse particle trajectories in the channels, which revealed spiral-shaped trajectories of the sub-micrometer particles towards the center...

  20. Multiwall carbon nanotubes decorated with FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}, a new selective electrochemical sensor for amoxicillin determination

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ensafi, Ali Asghar, E-mail: Ensafi@cc.iut.ac.ir; Allafchian, Ali Reza; Rezaei, Behzad [Isfahan University of Technology, Department of Chemistry (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2012-11-15

    FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were synthesized and then multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were decorated with FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. The new nanoparticles were characterized with different techniques such as vibrating sample magnetometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning surface microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results of the study confirm that the particles are pure FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs with a cubic structure. No diffraction peaks of other impurities such as FeO or Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} were observed. The diffractive peaks of FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs are broadened, implying that the crystalline size of FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs particles is quite small. The mean particle size of FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs calculated by Scherrer equation is about 25 nm, whereas the existence of particles with less than 30 nm size at FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs is clearly reflected in 2D and 3D AFM images. The TEM image confirms that the spaghetti-like FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs formed a porous structure. The synthesized FeCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}-MWCNTs nanoparticles could be used as a new electrocatalysis for voltammetric determination of amoxicillin (AMC). Under the optimized conditions at pH 7.5 and in differential pulse voltammetry, the oxidation peak current of AMC at the surface of the mediator has two linear dynamic ranges including 0.1-10.0 and 10.0-70.0 {mu}mol L{sup -1}. The detection limit of 0.05 {mu}mol L{sup -1} was achieved. The influence of potential interfering compounds on the selectivity was studied. Finally, the modified electrode showed good sensitivity, selectivity, and stability for the determination of AMC in real samples.

  1. Irreversibility in room temperature current–voltage characteristics of NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles: A signature of electrical memory effect

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dey, P., E-mail: pujaiitkgp2007@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol, W.B. 713340 (India); Debnath, Rajesh; Singh, Swati; Mandal, S.K. [Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology Agartala, Tripura 799046 (India); Roy, J.N. [Department of Physics, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol, W.B. 713340 (India); Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology Agartala, Tripura 799046 (India)

    2017-01-01

    Room temperature I–V characteristics study, both in presence and absence of magnetic field (1800 Oe), has been performed on NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles, having different particle size (φ~14, 21 and 31 nm). Our experiments on these nanoparticles provide evidences for: (1) electrical irreversibility or hysteretic behaviour; (2) positive magnetoresistance and (3) magnetic field dependent electrical irreversibility or hysteresis in the sample. “Hysteretic” nature of I–V curve reveals the existence of electrical memory effect in the sample. Significantly, such hysteresis has been found to be tuned by magnetic field. In order to explain the observed electrical irreversibility, we have proposed a phenomenological model on the light of induced polarization in the sample. Both the positive magnetoresistance and the observed magnetic field dependence of electrical irreversibility have been explained through magnetostriction phenomenon. Interestingly, such effects are found to get reduced with increasing particle size. For NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles having φ=31 nm, we did not observe any irreversibility effect. This feature has been attributed to the enhanced grain surface effect that in turn gives rise to the residual polarization and hence electrical memory effect in NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles, having small nanoscopic particle size. - Highlights: • I-V characteristics study of NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with varying particle sizes. • Experiments evident electrical hysteretic behaviour, i.e., electrical memory effect. • Magnetic field dependent electrical irreversibility is due to magnetostriction. • A phenomenological model has been proposed on the light of induced polarization. • Such electrical irreversibility decreases with increasing particle sizes.

  2. Solid-state synthesis of Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} whiskers from TiO{sub 2}-B

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yao, Wenjun [State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, No. 5 Xin Mofan Road, Nanjing 210009 (China); Zhuang, Wei [State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, No. 5 Xin Mofan Road, Nanjing 210009 (China); College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, National Engineering Technique Research Center for Biotechnology, Nanjing Tech University, No. 30, Puzhu South Road, Nanjing 211816 (China); Ji, Xiaoyan [Division of Energy Science/Energy Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå 97187 Sweden (Sweden); Chen, Jingjing; Lu, Xiaohua [State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, No. 5 Xin Mofan Road, Nanjing 210009 (China); Wang, Changsong, E-mail: wcs@njtech.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, No. 5 Xin Mofan Road, Nanjing 210009 (China)

    2016-03-15

    Highlights: • The Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} whiskers were synthesized from TiO{sub 2}-B whiskers via a solid state reaction. • The TiO{sub 2}-B crystal structure for lithium diffusion is easier than anatase. • The separated diffusion and reaction process is crucial for the solid-state syntheses of Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} whiskers. - Abstract: In this work, Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} (LTO) was synthesized from the precursors of TiO{sub 2}-B and anatase whiskers, respectively. The synthesized LTO whiskers from TiO{sub 2}-B whiskers via a solid state reaction at 650 °C have a high degree of crystallinity with an average diameter of 300 nm. However, when anatase whiskers were used as the precursor, only particle morphology LTO was produced at 750 °C. The further analysis of the precursors, the intermediate products and the final products reveal that the crystal structure of the anatase hinders the diffusion of lithium, leading to a typical reaction–diffusion process. Under this condition, only particle morphology LTO can be produced. However, the crystal structure of the TiO{sub 2}-B is easy for lithium diffusion and the process is performed in two separated steps (i.e., diffusion and reaction), which makes it possible to decrease the solid-state reaction temperature down to 650 °C and then maintain the morphologies of whiskers.

  3. Functionalized multimodal ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanosystems to use as perspective contrast agent for MRI

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Babayevska, Nataliya, E-mail: natbab@amu.edu.pl; Florczak, Patryk; Woźniak-Budych, Marta; Jarek, Marcin; Nowaczyk, Grzegorz; Zalewski, Tomasz; Jurga, Stefan

    2017-05-15

    Highlights: • The multimodal ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures were obtained by wet chemistry methods. • FA and Dox have been effectively bonded onto the ZnO nanoparticles surface. • Functionalized ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} NPs are good contrast agents, useful for MR imaging. - Abstract: The main aim of this research was the synthesis of the multimodal hybrid ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures as prospective contrast agent for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for bio-medical applications. The nanoparticles surface was functionalized by organosilicon compounds (OSC) then, by folic acid (FA) as targeting agent and doxorubicin (Dox) as chemotherapeutic agent. Doxorubicin and folic acid were attached to the nanoparticles surface by amino groups as well as due to attractive physical interactions. The morphology and crystallography of the nanostructures were studied by HRTEM and SAXS techniques. After ZnO nanoparticles surface modification by Gd{sup 3+} and annealing at 900 °C, ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures are polydispersed with size 30–100 nm. NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) studies of ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} were performed on fractionated particles with size up to 50 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–vis spectroscopy, zeta-potential measurements and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) showed that functional groups have been effectively bonded onto the nanoparticles surface. The high adsorption capacity of folic acid (up to 20%) and doxorubicin (up to 40%) on nanoparticles was reached upon 15 min of adsorption process in a temperature-dependent manner. The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation measurements confirmed that the obtained ZnO@Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures could be good contrast agents, useful for magnetic resonance imaging.

  4. Extreme ultraviolet resist materials for sub-7 nm patterning.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Li; Liu, Xuan; Pal, Shyam; Wang, Shulan; Ober, Christopher K; Giannelis, Emmanuel P

    2017-08-14

    Continuous ongoing development of dense integrated circuits requires significant advancements in nanoscale patterning technology. As a key process in semiconductor high volume manufacturing (HVM), high resolution lithography is crucial in keeping with Moore's law. Currently, lithography technology for the sub-7 nm node and beyond has been actively investigated approaching atomic level patterning. EUV technology is now considered to be a potential alternative to HVM for replacing in some cases ArF immersion technology combined with multi-patterning. Development of innovative resist materials will be required to improve advanced fabrication strategies. In this article, advancements in novel resist materials are reviewed to identify design criteria for establishment of a next generation resist platform. Development strategies and the challenges in next generation resist materials are summarized and discussed.

  5. Extreme ultraviolet resist materials for sub-7 nm patterning

    KAUST Repository

    Li, Li; Liu, Xuan; Pal, Shyam; Wang, Shulan; Ober, Christopher K.; Giannelis, Emmanuel P.

    2017-01-01

    Continuous ongoing development of dense integrated circuits requires significant advancements in nanoscale patterning technology. As a key process in semiconductor high volume manufacturing (HVM), high resolution lithography is crucial in keeping with Moore's law. Currently, lithography technology for the sub-7 nm node and beyond has been actively investigated approaching atomic level patterning. EUV technology is now considered to be a potential alternative to HVM for replacing in some cases ArF immersion technology combined with multi-patterning. Development of innovative resist materials will be required to improve advanced fabrication strategies. In this article, advancements in novel resist materials are reviewed to identify design criteria for establishment of a next generation resist platform. Development strategies and the challenges in next generation resist materials are summarized and discussed.

  6. Magnetic anisotropy of cobalt nanoparticle 2D arrays grown on corrugated MnF{sub 2}(1 1 0) and CaF{sub 2}(1 1 0) surfaces

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Baranov, D.A., E-mail: dbaranov@mail.ioffe.ru [Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Polytechnicheskaya str., St. Petersburg 194021 (Russian Federation); Krichevtsov, B.B.; Gastev, S.V.; Banschikov, A.G.; Fedorov, V.V. [Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Polytechnicheskaya str., St. Petersburg 194021 (Russian Federation); Koshmak, K.V. [Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Polytechnicheskaya str., St. Petersburg 194021 (Russian Federation); Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali e dell’Ambiente, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Via Vignolese 905, 41100 Modena (Italy); Suturin, S.M.; Sokolov, N.S. [Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Polytechnicheskaya str., St. Petersburg 194021 (Russian Federation)

    2013-02-15

    Cobalt nanoparticle 2D arrays with different effective thicknesses of cobalt layer (2 nm < d{sub eff} < 10 nm) were grown by molecular beam epitaxy on CaF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/Si(0 0 1) and MnF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/CaF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/Si(0 0 1) substrates with corrugated morphology of the surface. Surface morphology analysis showed that for effective thickness of cobalt layer d{sub eff} = 5 nm the lateral dimensions of cobalt islands are about 5–10 nm and the distances between the islands differs in a half along and across the grooves. In both types of the heterostructures the shape of hysteresis loops measured by LMOKE depend on orientation of in-plane magnetic field relative to the direction of the grooves. The azimuthal dependence of coercive field H{sub c} in Co/CaF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/Si(0 0 1) structures corresponds to Stoner–Wohlfarth model's predictions, which takes into account the anisotropy of individual particles. In contrast to that, in Co/MnF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/CaF{sub 2}(1 1 0)/Si(0 0 1) structures these dependences are analogous to those predicted by the model based on account of magnetic–dipole interaction between particles which are placed in chains (chain-of-spheres-model). Possible explanations of the difference in magnetic anisotropy are suggested.

  7. Improvement of slip property of magnetic tape by wet silica surface treatment on cobalt-coating type {gamma}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} magnetic particles; Kobaruto hichakugata {gamma}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} jiseibiryushi no shisshiki shirika hyomenshori niyoru jikitepu no suberi tokusei no kaizen

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hayashi, Kazuyuki; Iwasaki, Keisuke; Tanaka, Yasuyuki; Morii, Hiroko

    1999-02-05

    During the running of a magnetic taper coated with magnetic particles, sometimes troubles of the slip property between the magnetic tape and a magnetic head occur. In this research, silica coating onto the surfaces of magnetic iron oxide particles in water slurry was carried out, and a magnetic tape coated with these surface-modified particles was prepared so as to investigate the effect of the silica coating on the slip property of the magnetic tape. It was found that, for needle cobalt-coating type {gamma}- Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, the dynamic friction coefficient of the magnetic tape can be reduced from about 0.4 to abut 0.2 by coating silica at nm order. This was estimated that the adsorption amount of myristic acid as a lubricator component existing in the magnetic tape to the magnetic particles are reduced by the silica coating so that the amount of myristic acid effectively acting on the slip property of the magnetic tape surface is increased. Further, within the investigation scope of the present research, it has been clarified that the magnetic characteristics of the magnetic particles and coating dispersion property are not deteriorated by the surface treatment with silica, and a preferable magnetic recording medium retaining both magnetic characteristic and slip property can be obtained. (translated by NEDO)

  8. High critical currents in heavily doped (Gd,Y)Ba{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} superconductor tapes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Selvamanickam, V., E-mail: selva@uh.edu; Gharahcheshmeh, M. Heydari; Xu, A.; Galstyan, E.; Delgado, L. [Department of Mechanical Engineering and Texas Center for Superconductivity, University of Houston, 4800 Calhoun Rd., Houston, Texas 77204-4006 (United States); Cantoni, C. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37381 (United States)

    2015-01-19

    REBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} ((REBCO), RE = rare earth) superconductor tapes with moderate levels of dopants have been optimized for high critical current density in low magnetic fields at 77 K, but they do not exhibit exemplary performance in conditions of interest for practical applications, i.e., temperatures less than 50 K and fields of 2–30 T. Heavy doping of REBCO tapes has been avoided by researchers thus far due to deterioration in properties. Here, we report achievement of critical current densities (J{sub c}) above 20 MA/cm{sup 2} at 30 K, 3 T in heavily doped (25 mol. % Zr-added) (Gd,Y)Ba{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} superconductor tapes, which is more than three times higher than the J{sub c} typically obtained in moderately doped tapes. Pinning force levels above 1000 GN/m{sup 3} have also been attained at 20 K. A composition map of lift factor in J{sub c} (ratio of J{sub c} at 30 K, 3 T to the J{sub c} at 77 K, 0 T) has been developed which reveals the optimum film composition to obtain lift factors above six, which is thrice the typical value. A highly c-axis aligned BaZrO{sub 3} (BZO) nanocolumn defect density of nearly 7 × 10{sup 11 }cm{sup −2} as well as 2–3 nm sized particles rich in Cu and Zr have been found in the high J{sub c} films.

  9. Manipulation and in situ transmission electron microscope characterization of sub-100 nm nanostructures using a microfabricated nanogripper

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cagliani, Alberto; Wierzbicki, Rafal; Petersen, Dirch Hjorth; Dyvelkov, Karin Nordstrøm; Sardan Sukas, Özlem; Booth, Tim; Bøggild, Peter; Occhipinti, Luigi; Herstrøm, Berit G

    2010-01-01

    We present here a polysilicon electrothermal microfabricated nanogripper capable of manipulating nanowires and nanotubes in the sub-100 nm range. The nanogripper was fabricated with a mix and match microfabrication process, combining high throughput of photolithography with 10 nm resolution of electron beam lithography. Vertically grown III–V nanowires with a diameter of 70 nm were picked up using the nanogripper, allowing direct transfer of the nanogripper-nanowire ensemble into a transmission electron microscope (TEM) for structural characterization. By refining the end-effectors with focused ion beam milling and subsequently coating these with Au, the nanogripper could lift up laterally aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes from a 1 µm wide trench, while immediately making good electrical contact. One such carbon nanotube was structurally and electrically characterized real-time in TEM, showing a breakdown current density of approximately 0.5 × 10 12 Am −2 . The nanogripper is the smallest microfabricated gripper to date and is the first tool showing repeatable, 3D nanomanipulation of sub-100 nm structures.

  10. Flash Light Millisecond Self-Assembly of High χ Block Copolymers for Wafer-Scale Sub-10 nm Nanopatterning.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jin, Hyeong Min; Park, Dae Yong; Jeong, Seong-Jun; Lee, Gil Yong; Kim, Ju Young; Mun, Jeong Ho; Cha, Seung Keun; Lim, Joonwon; Kim, Jun Soo; Kim, Kwang Ho; Lee, Keon Jae; Kim, Sang Ouk

    2017-08-01

    One of the fundamental challenges encountered in successful incorporation of directed self-assembly in sub-10 nm scale practical nanolithography is the process compatibility of block copolymers with a high Flory-Huggins interaction parameter (χ). Herein, reliable, fab-compatible, and ultrafast directed self-assembly of high-χ block copolymers is achieved with intense flash light. The instantaneous heating/quenching process over an extremely high temperature (over 600 °C) by flash light irradiation enables large grain growth of sub-10 nm scale self-assembled nanopatterns without thermal degradation or dewetting in a millisecond time scale. A rapid self-assembly mechanism for a highly ordered morphology is identified based on the kinetics and thermodynamics of the block copolymers with strong segregation. Furthermore, this novel self-assembly mechanism is combined with graphoepitaxy to demonstrate the feasibility of ultrafast directed self-assembly of sub-10 nm nanopatterns over a large area. A chemically modified graphene film is used as a flexible and conformal light-absorbing layer. Subsequently, transparent and mechanically flexible nanolithography with a millisecond photothermal process is achieved leading the way for roll-to-roll processability. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Magnetic and Structural Properties of the Mechanically Alloyed Nd{sub 2}(Fe{sub 100-x}Nb{sub x}){sub 14}B System

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lozano, D. Oyola, E-mail: doyola@ut.edu.co [University of Tolima, Department of Physics (Colombia); Zamora, L. E.; Perez Alcazar, G. A. [University of Valle, Department of Physics (Colombia); Rojas, Y. A.; Bustos, H. [University of Tolima, Department of Physics (Colombia); Greneche, J. M. [UMR CNRS 6087, Laboratoire de Physique de l' Etat Condense (France)

    2005-02-15

    In this work we report the magnetic and structural properties obtained by Moessbauer spectrometry, Vibrating Sample Magnetometer and X-ray diffraction of milled powders with initial composition Nd{sub 2}(Fe{sub 100-x}Nb{sub x}){sub 14}B with x = 0 and x = 4. The mixtures were ball milled for different times up to 240 h. Structural and microstructural parameters were derived from high statistics X-ray patterns and discussed as a function of milling time. The Moessbauer spectra of the samples were fitted by means of a sextet and an hyperfine field distribution, associated to a pure iron phase ({alpha}-Fe) and a disordered iron-based phase, respectively. The {alpha}-Fe grain size decreases from 50 nm for 6 h up to 5 nm for 240 h milling time. The Vibrating Sample Magnetometer results allow to conclude that these samples behave as soft ferromagnets.

  12. Synthesis of green emission upconversion phosphor nanosheets (LaNb{sub 2}O{sub 7}) doped with Er{sup 3+} and Yb{sup 3+}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Takasugi, Soichi [Course of Science and Technology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokai University, 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292 (Japan); Iida, Riku [Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tokai University, 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292 (Japan); Tomita, Koji, E-mail: tomita@keyaki.cc.u-tokai.ac.jp [Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tokai University, 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292 (Japan); Iwaoka, Michio [Course of Science and Technology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokai University, 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292 (Japan); Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tokai University, 4-1-1 Kitakaname, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa 259-1292 (Japan); Katagiri, Kiyofumi [Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8527 (Japan); Osada, Minoru [International Center for Materials Nano architectonics (MANA), National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0044 (Japan); Kakihana, Masato [Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials (IMRAM), Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8577 (Japan)

    2016-05-15

    LaNb{sub 2}O{sub 7}:Er{sup 3+},Yb{sup 3+} upconversion (UPC) phosphor nanosheets were prepared by exfoliating a KLaNb{sub 2}O{sub 7}:Er{sup 3+},Yb{sup 3+} layered compound. Highly crystalline nanosheets with a thickness and lateral size of 3.91 nm and approximately 300 nm, respectively, were obtained. The UPC emission intensity of the nanosheets was 7.6 times greater than that of mechanically milled particles (100–500 nm) of bulk KLaNb{sub 2}O{sub 7}:Er{sup 3+},Yb{sup 3+}. The UPC emission intensities of the nanosheets dispersed in different solvents (H{sub 2}O, D{sub 2}O, CH{sub 3}OH, CH{sub 2}Cl{sub 2}, and CCl{sub 4}) were measured, and the intensities were observed to decrease in the order CCl{sub 4}>CH{sub 2}Cl{sub 2}>D{sub 2}O>CH{sub 3}OH>H{sub 2}O. Because of the large surface area of the nanosheets, their emission intensity was decreased depending on the solvent's vibrational energy. - Highlights: • La{sub 0.45}Er{sub 0.05}Yb{sub 0.5}Nb{sub 2}O{sub 7} nanosheets were synthesized by a soft breakdown method (exfoliation). • The lateral size and thickness of the nanosheets were approximately 300 nm and approximately 3.91 nm, respectively. • The exfoliated nanosheets exhibited bright upconversion emission 7.6 times more intense than that of the milled sample (100–500 nm). • The nanosheets dispersed in solvents exhibited greatly different upconversion emission intensities depending on the solvent's vibrational energy.

  13. Investigating the effect of multiple grain–grain interfaces on electric and magnetic properties of [50 wt% BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}–50 wt% Na{sub 0.5}Bi{sub 0.5}TiO{sub 3}] composite system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pattanayak, Ranjit, E-mail: ranjit.p20@gmail.com [Department of Physics and Astronomy, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008 (India); Muduli, Rakesh; Panda, Ranjit Kumar [Department of Physics and Astronomy, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008 (India); Dash, Tapan [CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (India); Sahu, Priyanka; Raut, Subhajit; Panigrahi, Simanchala [Department of Physics and Astronomy, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008 (India)

    2016-03-15

    This report presents the fabrication, electrical properties along with the magnetic parameters of a composite system considering a strong ferrimagnetic (BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19}) and a ferroelectric (Na{sub 0.5}Bi{sub 0.5}TiO{sub 3}) material. Polycrystalline 50 wt% BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} (BaM)–50 wt% Na{sub 0.5}Bi{sub 0.5}TiO{sub 3} (NBT) composite system was prepared by the solid state reaction method. Rietveld refinement of XRD pattern confirms the presence of BaM and NBT phases without any impurity phase. From scanning electron micrograph both the phases are also clearly identified. In this report, the electric relaxation and conductivity properties were systematically investigated and analyzed in the frequency range of 100 Hz to 1 MHz and temperature range of 30–200 °C. The presence of different type of grains and significant reduction in the resistance of the composite system were found to be responsible for the nature of electric relaxation behavior. A peculiar and interesting evolution of grain boundary conduction was detected which was argued due to the existence of three possible grain boundaries such as: (i) BaM–BaM interface, (ii) NBT–NBT interface and (iii) BaM–NBT interface. The magnetization study (M–H loop) paves that, the saturation magnetization and coercive field reduces for composite system.

  14. The effect of sintering time on synthesis of in situ submicron {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles by the exothermic reactions of CuO particles in molten pure Al

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dikici, Burak, E-mail: burakdikici@yyu.edu.tr [Yuzuncu Yil University, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 65080 Van (Turkey); Gavgali, Mehmet [Ataturk University, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 25240 Erzurum (Turkey)

    2013-02-25

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Al-Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composites were prepared successfully by means of hot pressing method. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sintering time of the Al-CuO system effect the reaction rate and formation of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Increase in sintering time accelerates formation of submicron in situ {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Hardness of the sintered composite for 30 min at 1000 Degree-Sign C increased from 60 to 174 HV. - Abstract: In this study, in situ {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} reinforcing particles have been successfully synthesised in an Al-Cu matrix alloy by means of the conventional Hot Pressing (HP) method. The effect of sintering time on the forming of the {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase at 1000 Degree-Sign C was investigated using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The sintered composites contained thermodynamically stable {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles and {theta}-Al{sub 2}Cu eutectic phases, which were embedded in the Al-Cu matrix. The in situ {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles were generally spherical and their mean size was observed to be less than 0.5 {mu}m. The results showed that sintering time influences not only the reaction rate of copper and the formation of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Also, an increase in the sintering time accelerates the formation of submicron in situ {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles and decreases the quantity of {theta}-Al{sub 2}Cu intermetallic phase in the liquid aluminium. Additionally, sintering of composite for 30 min at 1000 Degree-Sign C increased the hardness from 60 to 174 HV.

  15. Investigation of multifunctional properties of Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} (x = 0–6) Heusler alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sharma, Jyoti; Suresh, K.G., E-mail: suresh@phy.iitb.ac.in

    2015-01-25

    Highlights: • Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} Heusler alloys exhibit multifunctional properties. • Co doping results decrease in martensitic transition temperature and increase in T{sub C}{sup A}. • Ferromagnetic coupling increases with increase in Co concentration. • Large positive ΔS{sub M} of 10.5 J/kg K and large RCP of 125 J/kg was obtained for x = 1. • Large exchange bias field of 833 Oe was observed for Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 39}Co{sub 1}Sn{sub 10} alloy. - Abstract: A series of Co doped Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} (x = 0, 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4 and 6) Heusler alloys has been investigated for their structural, magnetic, magnetocaloric and exchange bias properties. The martensitic transition temperatures are found to decrease with the increase in Co concentration due to the decrease in valence electron concentration (e/a ratio). The Curie temperature of austenite phase increases significantly with increasing Co concentration. A large positive magnetic entropy change (ΔS{sub M}) of 8.6 and 10.5 J/kg K, for a magnetic field change of 50 kOe is observed for x = 0 and 1 alloys, and ΔS{sub M} values decreases for higher Co concentrations. The relative cooling power shows a monotonic increase with the increase in Co concentration. Large exchange bias fields of 920 Oe and 833 Oe have been observed in the alloys with compositions x = 0 and 1, after field cooling in presence of 10 kOe. The unidirectional anisotropy arising at the interface between the frustrated and ferromagnetic phases is responsible for the large exchange bias observed in these alloys. With increase in Co, the magnetically frustrated phase diminishes in strength, giving rise to a decrease in the exchange bias effect for larger Co concentration. The exchange bias fields observed for compositions x = 0 and 1, in the present case are larger than that reported for Co doped Ni–Mn–Z (Z = Sn, Sb, and Ga) alloys. Temperature and cooling field dependence of the exchange bias

  16. MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} as a gas sensor towards SO{sub 2} and NO{sub 2} gases

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rathore, Deepshikha, E-mail: deep.nano@gmail.com; Mitra, Supratim [Department of Natural Sciences, NIIT University, Neemrana, Rajasthan 301705 (India)

    2016-05-06

    The chemical co-precipitation method was used to synthesize MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. Single cubic phase formation of nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction technique. The average particle size of MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles was found to be 10.7 nm using Scherrer formula. The ultrafine powder of MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles was pressed to design pellet of 10 mm diameter and 1mm thickness. Copper electrodes have been deposited on the surface of pellet using silver paste in the form of capacitor. Fabricated gas sensing device of MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles was tested towards SO{sub 2} and NO{sub 2} gases. Cole-Cole plot of MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} was investigated with the help of electrochemical workstation. The performance of the sensors including sensitivity, response and recovery time was also determined. It was observed that the MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles are more sensible for NO{sub 2} gas as compared to SO{sub 2} gas.

  17. A general approach to homogeneous sub-nanometer metallic particle/graphene composites by S-coordinator

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Senhao; Wang, Wei; Gu, Shangzhi; Zhang, Guoxin; Song, Ningning

    2018-05-01

    In this study, sulphur-modified reduced graphene oxide (S-rGO) was employed as substrate to investigate the growth mechanism of metal and metallic nanoparticles (NPs). It is observed that the monodispersed Au, SnO2, FeO(OH) and Co3S4 NPs in sub-nanometer (sub-nm) with narrow size distribution were successfully anchored on S-rGO, respectively. The results indicate that the S contained radicals, viz. the Cdbnd S and Csbnd Ssbnd C functional groups play an important role in determining the homogeneous distribution of NPs on S-rGO by providing active sites for the NPs anchoring and nucleation. In additional, as anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs), the as-synthesized sub-nm sized Co3S4/S-rGO and SnO2/S-rGO composites show excellent Li storage performance. It could be stabilized at ca. 600 mAh/g after formation cycle with the coulombic efficiency of 98%. It is expected that the strategy of growing sub-nm sized metallic component onto graphene by applying sulphur functionalities could be utilized as a general method to prepare monodispersed graphene-based NPs with other metals, especially with transition metals in sub-nm sizes.

  18. Multiple double cross-section transmission electron microscope sample preparation of specific sub-10 nm diameter Si nanowire devices.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gignac, Lynne M; Mittal, Surbhi; Bangsaruntip, Sarunya; Cohen, Guy M; Sleight, Jeffrey W

    2011-12-01

    The ability to prepare multiple cross-section transmission electron microscope (XTEM) samples from one XTEM sample of specific sub-10 nm features was demonstrated. Sub-10 nm diameter Si nanowire (NW) devices were initially cross-sectioned using a dual-beam focused ion beam system in a direction running parallel to the device channel. From this XTEM sample, both low- and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM) images were obtained from six separate, specific site Si NW devices. The XTEM sample was then re-sectioned in four separate locations in a direction perpendicular to the device channel: 90° from the original XTEM sample direction. Three of the four XTEM samples were successfully sectioned in the gate region of the device. From these three samples, low- and high-resolution TEM images of the Si NW were taken and measurements of the NW diameters were obtained. This technique demonstrated the ability to obtain high-resolution TEM images in directions 90° from one another of multiple, specific sub-10 nm features that were spaced 1.1 μm apart.

  19. Laser-induced damage of fused silica at 355 and 1065 nm initiated at aluminum contamination particles on the surface

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Genin, F.Y.; Michlitsch, K.; Furr, J.; Kozlowski, M.R.; Krulevitch, P.

    1997-01-01

    1-μm thick circular dots, 10-250 μm dia, were deposited onto 1.14 cm thick fused silica windows by sputtering Al through a mask. Al shavings were also deposited on the windows to investigate effects of particle-substrate adhesion. The silica windows were then illuminated repetitively using a 3-ns, 355 nm and an 8.6-ns, 1064 nm laser. The tests were conducted at near normal incidence with particles on input and output surfaces of the windows. During the first shot, a plasma ignited at the metal particle and damage initiated on the fused silica surface. The morphology of the damage at the metal dots were reproducible but different for input and output surface contamination. For input surface contamination, minor damage occurred where the particle was located; such damage ceased to grow with the removal of contaminant material. More serious damage (pits and cracks) was initiated on the output surface (especially at 355 nm) and grew to catastrophic proportions after few shots. Output surface contaminants were usually ejected on the initial shot, leaving a wave pattern on the surface. No further damage occurred with subsequent shots unless a shot (usually the first shot) cracked the surface; such behavior was mostly observed at 355 nm and occasionally for large shavings at 1064 nm. The size of the damaged area scaled with the size of the particle (except when catastrophic damage occurred). Onset of catastrophic damage on output surface occurred only when particles exceeded a critical size. Damage behavior of the sputtered dots was found to be qualitatively similar to that of the shavings. The artificial contamination technique accelerated the study by allowing better control of the test conditions

  20. Structural and magnetic characteristics of PVA/CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-composites prepared via mechanical alloying method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rashidi, S.; Ataie, A., E-mail: aataie@ut.ac.ir

    2016-08-15

    Highlights: • Single phase CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-particles synthesized in one step by mechanical alloying. • PVA/CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} magnetic nano-composites were fabricated via mechanical milling. • FTIR confirmed the interaction between PVA and magnetic CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles. • Increasing in milling time and PVA amount led to well dispersion of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. - Abstract: In this research, polyvinyl alcohol/cobalt ferrite nano-composites were successfully synthesized employing a two-step procedure: the spherical single-phase cobalt ferrite of 20 ± 4 nm mean particle size was synthesized via mechanical alloying method and then embedded into polymer matrix by intensive milling. The results revealed that increase in polyvinyl alcohol content and milling time causes cobalt ferrite particles disperse more homogeneously in polymer matrix, while the mean particle size and shape of cobalt ferrite have not been significantly affected. Transmission electron microscope images indicated that polyvinyl alcohol chains have surrounded the cobalt ferrite nano-particles; also, the interaction between polymer and cobalt ferrite particles in nano-composite samples was confirmed. Magnetic properties evaluation showed that saturation magnetization, coercivity and anisotropy constant values decreased in nano-composite samples compared to pure cobalt ferrite. However, the coercivity values of related nano-composite samples enhanced by increasing PVA amount due to domain wall mechanism.

  1. Experimental charge fractions of hydrogen scattered from insulators at 50-340 keV

    CERN Document Server

    Ross, Graham G

    2002-01-01

    Ion bombardment of insulators induces accumulation of electric charges at and under the insulator surfaces. This paper deals with the effect of the accumulated electric charges on the charge fractions of scattered hydrogen. We have measured and compiled charge fractions of hydrogen, in the energy range (for the scattered particles) from 50 to 340 keV, scattered from polystyrene, polymethylmethacrylate, polycarbonate, polyethylene and silicon. In order to establish the effect of the charge accumulation, some samples have been cut from a thick (1 mm) sheet, while some others have been spin coated (approx 250 nm) onto silicon wafers. Experimental measurements have been fitted with the equation f(0)=Aexp(-V sup 2 /V sub i V sub 0), where f(0) is the neutral fraction, V the velocity, V sub i the 'Bohr velocity' for the electron of projectiles, A and V sub 0 the fitting parameters. Comparisons using the least-square fitting procedure have shown that the accumulation of electric charges on the thick polymer samples ...

  2. Particle hygroscopicity during atmospheric new particle formation events: implications for the chemical species contributing to particle growth

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Z. Wu

    2013-07-01

    Full Text Available This study examines the hygroscopicity of newly formed particles (diameters range 25–45 nm during two atmospheric new particle formation (NPF events in the German mid-level mountains during the Hill Cap Cloud Thuringia 2010 (HCCT-2010 field experiment. At the end of the NPF event involving clear particle growth, we measured an unusually high soluble particle fraction of 58.5% at 45 nm particle size. The particle growth rate contributed through sulfuric acid condensation only accounts for around 6.5% of the observed growth rate. Estimations showed that sulfuric acid condensation explained, however, only around 10% of that soluble particle fraction. Therefore, the formation of additional water-soluble matter appears imperative to explain the missing soluble fraction. Although direct evidence is missing, we consider water-soluble organics as candidates for this mechanism. For the case with clear growth process, the particle growth rate was determined by two alternative methods based on tracking the mode diameter of the nucleation mode. The mean particle growth rate obtained from the inter-site data comparison using Lagrangian consideration is 3.8 (± 2.6 nm h−1. During the same period, the growth rate calculated based on one site data is 5.0 nm h−1 using log-normal distribution function method. In light of the fact that considerable uncertainties could be involved in both methods, we consider both estimated growth rates consistent.

  3. Preparation and characterization of Pd{sub x}Ag{sub y}/C electrocatalysts for ethanol electrooxidation reaction in alkaline media

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li Guanglan [Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Laboratory, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China); Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China); Jiang Luhua [Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Laboratory, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China); Jiang Qian [Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Laboratory, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China); Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China); Wang Suli [Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Laboratory, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China); Sun Gongquan, E-mail: gqsun@dicp.ac.cn [Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Laboratory, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023 (China)

    2011-09-01

    Highlights: {center_dot} The effects of Pd or PdAg particle size and PdAg alloy degrees on the EOR activity are investigated. {center_dot} The Pd lattice constant of the PdAg increases with increasing the Ag content. {center_dot} The EOR activity of the PdAg/C presents a 'volcano' plot with increasing the Pd lattice constant. {center_dot} The optimal Pd/Ag atomic ratio locates between 2/1 and 3/1. {center_dot} The EOR activity of the PdAg/C increases with increasing the PdAg particle size from 3.4 to 5.2 nm. - Abstract: Carbon-supported bimetallic PdAg catalysts with Pd/Ag atomic ratios varying from 4/1 to 1/2 were prepared by an impregnation-reduction method. The impregnated black mixture was treated in H{sub 2}/N{sub 2} atmosphere at a temperature varying from 180 to 500 deg. C. The obtained Pd{sub x}Ag{sub y}/C catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). XRD results show that the lattice constant of Pd is dilated, suggesting the formation of PdAg alloy. The lattice constant of Pd for the Pd{sub x}Ag{sub y}/C-500 (reduced at 500 deg. C by H{sub 2}) increases linearly and the average metal particle size decreases slightly from 6.8 to 5.1 nm with increasing Ag fractions from 20% to 67% in the PdAg composition. For Pd{sub x}Ag{sub y}/C catalysts with a certain specific Pd/Ag atomic ratio, e.g., Pd{sub 2}Ag{sub 1}/C, the dilated lattice constant of Pd is independent of the reducing temperature, indicating the alloy degree for the Pd{sub 2}Ag{sub 1}/C-t catalysts is comparable. The average metal particle size for the Pd{sub 2}Ag{sub 1}/C-t catalysts increases from 3.4 to 5.2 nm with H{sub 2} reduction temperature increasing from 180 to 500 deg. C. The potentiodynamic measurements on ethanol electrooxidation reaction (EOR) show that the catalytic activities for the Pd{sub x}Ag{sub y}/C-t catalysts toward the EOR are improved by alloying Pd with Ag. At

  4. Optical properties and visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of Bi{sub 8}V{sub 2}O{sub 17} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pu, Yinfu; Liu, Ting; Huang, Yanlin [Soochow University, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science (China); Chen, Cuili; Kim, Sun Il; Seo, Hyo Jin, E-mail: hjseo@pknu.ac.kr [Pukyong National University, Department of Physics and Interdisciplinary Program of Biomedical, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-05-15

    Bi{sub 8}V{sub 2}O{sub 17} (4Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}·V{sub 2}O{sub 5}) nanoparticles with the uniform size of about 50 nm were fabricated through the Pechini method. The crystal structure was investigated by X-ray powder diffraction and the structural refinement. The surface of the as-synthesized samples was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The optical properties, band structure, and the degradation mechanisms were discussed. The experimental results demonstrate that Bi{sub 8}V{sub 2}O{sub 17} nanoparticles have an efficient visible-light absorption with band-gap energy of 1.85 eV and a direct allowed electronic transition. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the photodegradation of the methylene blue (MB) under visible-light irradiation (λ > 420 nm) as a function of time. These results indicate that Bi{sub 8}V{sub 2}O{sub 17} could be a potential photocatalyst driven by visible light. The effective photocatalytic activity was discussed on the base of the crystal structure characteristic.

  5. Extreme ultraviolet resist materials for sub-7 nm patterning

    KAUST Repository

    Li, Li

    2017-06-26

    Continuous ongoing development of dense integrated circuits requires significant advancements in nanoscale patterning technology. As a key process in semiconductor high volume manufacturing (HVM), high resolution lithography is crucial in keeping with Moore\\'s law. Currently, lithography technology for the sub-7 nm node and beyond has been actively investigated approaching atomic level patterning. EUV technology is now considered to be a potential alternative to HVM for replacing in some cases ArF immersion technology combined with multi-patterning. Development of innovative resist materials will be required to improve advanced fabrication strategies. In this article, advancements in novel resist materials are reviewed to identify design criteria for establishment of a next generation resist platform. Development strategies and the challenges in next generation resist materials are summarized and discussed.

  6. Preparation of transparent fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coating with improved self-cleaning performance and anti-aging property

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhou, Jianping, E-mail: zf161162@163.com; Tan, Zhongyuan; Liu, Zhilei; Jing, Mengmeng; Liu, Wenjie; Fu, Wanli

    2017-02-28

    Graphical abstract: Semicrystalline colloidal particles of TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite oxide were prepared via a sol-gel approach and annealed by a microwave heating treatment. The fabricated fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coatings are transparent, exhibit a highly stable and excellent hydrophilicity, an improved photocatalytic activity and outstanding self-cleaning performance. What’s more, the composite coatings display an excellent anti-aging performance toward UV irradiation. These findings indicate that the fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coatings could be potentially used for outdoor applications. - Highlights: • Semicrystalline colloidal particles of TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite oxide presenting a particle size of 6–10 nm were prepared via a sol-gel approach and annealed by microwave heating method. • The fabricated transparent fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coatings exhibited a superior hydrophilicity, an improved photocatalytic activity and excellent self-cleaning performance. • The fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coatings exhibited an excellent anti-aging performance toward UV irradiation, rendering it quite suitable for outdoor applications. - Abstract: This work reports a facile method to fabricate transparent self-cleaning fluorocarbon coatings filled by semicrystalline colloidal particles of TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite oxide presenting a particle size ranging from 6 to 10 nm. Anatase-TiO{sub 2} crystallites were successfully obtained after microwave heating treatment of the TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} colloidal particles as confirmed by XRD, TEM and FTIR measurements. The fluorocarbon/TiO{sub 2}-SiO{sub 2} composite coatings exhibited a superior hydrophilicity and an improved photocatalytic activity in contrast to the TiO{sub 2}-filled coatings. In particular, a water contact angle (WCA) value of 4.5° and a decolorization ratio relative to methyl orange as high as 96.0% were

  7. Controlled synthesis, formation mechanism, and carbon oxidation properties of Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanoplates prepared with a coordination-complex method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Guo, Rui [School of Resources and Materials, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); School of Metallurgy, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110004 (China); You, Junhua [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenyang University of Technology, Shenyang 110870 (China); Han, Fei; Li, Chaoyang; Zheng, Guiyuan; Xiao, Weicheng [School of Resources and Materials, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Liu, Xuanwen, E-mail: lxw@mail.neuq.edu.cn [School of Resources and Materials, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); School of Metallurgy, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110004 (China)

    2017-02-28

    Highlights: • The crystallization mechanism relies on Ho{sup 3+} and Cu{sup 2+} diffusion. • The Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} particles are refined by the coordination complex method under N{sub 2} environment. • The catalytic oxidation activity of Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} samples for carbon is enhanced. - Abstract: Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanoplates with perovskite structures were synthesized via a simple solution method (SSM) and a coordination-complex method (CCM) using [HoCu(3,4-pdc){sub 2}(OAc)(H{sub 2}O){sub 3}]·8H{sub 2}O (L = 3,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acid) as a precursor. The CCM was also performed in an N{sub 2} environment (CCMN) under various calcination conditions. The crystallization processes were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} formed through the diffusion of CuO into Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles. Cu{sup 2+} diffused faster than Ho{sup 3+} during this process. The initial products of CCMN (along with the thermal decomposition products) were initially laminarized in the N{sub 2} atmosphere, which prevented the growth of CuO particles and decreased the size of the Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} particles. The final Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} particles from CCMN had a nanoplate morphology with an average thickness of 75 nm. The decomposition of organic molecules and protection from N{sub 2} played important roles in determining the morphology of the resulting Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5}. The catalytic oxidation activity of Ho{sub 2}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 5} samples for carbon was characterized using a specific surface area measurement and thermogravimetric analysis, which revealed that the samples produced by CCMN had the highest catalytic activity.

  8. Diurnal and seasonal variations of concentration and size distribution of nano aerosols (10-1100 nm) enclosing radon decay products in the Postojna Cave, Slovenia.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bezek, M; Gregoric, A; Kávási, N; Vaupotic, J

    2012-11-01

    At the lowest point along the tourist route in the Postojna Cave, the activity concentration of radon ((222)Rn) short-lived decay products and number concentration and size distribution of background aerosol particles in the size range of 10-1100 nm were measured. In the warm yearly season, aerosol concentration was low (52 cm(-3)) with 21 % particles smaller than 50 nm, while in the cold season, it was higher (1238 cm(-3)) with 8 % of <50 nm particles. Radon activity concentrations were 4489 and 1108 Bq m(-3), and fractions of unattached radon decay products were 0.62 and 0.13, respectively.

  9. Assembly and luminescence properties of lanthanide-polyoxometalates/polyethyleneimine/SiO{sub 2} particles with core–shell structure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Jun, E-mail: junwang924@yahoo.com.cn; Fan, Shaohua; Zhao, Weiqian; Zhang, Hongyan

    2013-01-01

    In this paper, two lanthanide-polyoxometalate (LnW{sub 10}) complexes were bonded on the surface of the polyethyleneimine (PEI)-modified silica nanoparticles with different sizes, resulting in the formation of LnW{sub 10}/PEI/SiO{sub 2} particles. The hybrid core–shell particles were characterized by infrared, luminescent spectra, scanning electronic microscope, and transmission electronic microscope. The particles obtained exhibit the fine spherical core–shell structure and the excellent luminescence properties. The luminescence spectra studies revealed that the formation of LnW{sub 10}/PEI/SiO{sub 2} particles and the size of particle have an influence on the luminescence properties of lanthanide ions. - Highlights: ► SiO{sub 2}/polyethyleneimine (PEI) shows the chemisorption for Ln-polyoxometalates (LnW{sub 10}). ► The core-shell LnW{sub 10}/PEI/SiO{sub 2} nanoparticles with different sizes were fabricated. ► The hybrid particles exhibit the excellent luminescence properties. ► The sizes of particles affect the luminescence properties of lanthanide ions.

  10. Mechanochemical and combustion synthesis of CeB{sub 6}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Akguen, Baris [Roketsan Missiles Inc., Ankara (Turkey); Sevinc, Naci; Topkaya, Yavuz [Middle East Technical Univ., Ankara (Turkey). Dept. of Metallurgical and Materials Engineerung; Camurlu, H. Erdem [Akdeniz Univ., Antalya (Turkey). Dept. of Mechanical Engineering

    2013-04-15

    CeB{sub 6} powder was prepared via combustion synthesis (CS) and mechanochemical processing (MCP) methods starting from CeO{sub 2}, B{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Mg powder mixtures. In CS, reactant mixtures were ignited in a preheated pot furnace under argon atmosphere. Products contained CeB{sub 6}, MgO and Mg{sub 3}B{sub 2}O{sub 6}, as revealed by X-ray diffraction analysis. After leaching in 1 M HCl for 15h, MgO was removed but Mg{sub 3}B{sub 2}O{sub 6} could not be removed from the products. Ball milling of products in ethanol prior to leaching made the removal of Mg{sub 3}B{sub 2}O{sub 6} possible by leaching. Yield of CeB{sub 6} was 68.6% in CS. MCP was performed in a stainless steel vial with a planetary ball mill at 300 rpm for 30h. MCP products contained CeB{sub 6}, MgO and small amount of Fe. Leaching in 1 M HCl for 30min was sufficient to remove MgO. Yield of CeB{sub 6} was 84.4% in MCP. According to scanning electron microscopy examinations, particles of CeB6 prepared by CS and MCP had submicrometer size. Average particle sizes were determined as 290nm and 240nm, respectively.

  11. Ultrafast Self-Assembly of Sub-10 nm Block Copolymer Nanostructures by Solvent-Free High-Temperature Laser Annealing.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jiang, Jing; Jacobs, Alan G; Wenning, Brandon; Liedel, Clemens; Thompson, Michael O; Ober, Christopher K

    2017-09-20

    Laser spike annealing was applied to PS-b-PDMS diblock copolymers to induce short-time (millisecond time scale), high-temperature (300 to 700 °C) microphase segregation and directed self-assembly of sub-10 nm features. Conditions were identified that enabled uniform microphase separation in the time frame of tens of milliseconds. Microphase ordering improved with increased temperature and annealing time, whereas phase separation contrast was lost for very short annealing times at high temperature. PMMA brush underlayers aided ordering under otherwise identical laser annealing conditions. Good long-range order for sub-10 nm cylinder morphology was achieved using graphoepitaxy coupled with a 20 ms dwell laser spike anneal above 440 °C.

  12. Improvement microstructural and damage characterization of ceramic composites Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} – V{sub 2}O{sub 5} with MgO nano particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Issa, T. T., E-mail: alazbrh@yahoo.com; Hasan, J. M.; Abdullah, E. T. [University of Baghdad, College of Science, Physics Department, Jaderiha, Baghdad (Iraq); Shokr, F. S. [King Abdul Aziz Universit, Faculty of Science& Art, Physics Department, Rabigh, KSA (Saudi Arabia)

    2016-04-21

    Compacted samples of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}-V{sub 2}O{sub 5} – MgO Nano – particles wt. % sintered at different sintering temperature (700, 900, 1100, 1300) ) C° for 2 hours under static air were investigated by x-ray diffraction and differential thermal analysis(DTA), to identify the phase present .Microstructure examination achieved by scanning electron microscopy .Sintered density and porosity were measured for all sintered samples .Compression was tested too and the Brake down voltage and dielectric strength were measure for all sintered samples .The clear improvement were noticed in both microstructure and damage characterization respectively after existing the MgO Nano-particles, by increasing in about 30% in sintered density and 25% for the compressive strength .The improvement also noticed on both brake down voltage and dielectric strength.

  13. Efficient charge carrier injection into sub-250 nm AlGaN multiple quantum well light emitting diodes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mehnke, Frank, E-mail: mehnke@physik.tu-berlin.de; Kuhn, Christian; Guttmann, Martin; Reich, Christoph; Kolbe, Tim; Rass, Jens; Wernicke, Tim [Technische Universität Berlin, Institut für Festkörperphysik, Hardenbergstr. 36, EW 6-1, 10623 Berlin (Germany); Kueller, Viola; Knauer, Arne; Lapeyrade, Mickael; Einfeldt, Sven; Weyers, Markus [Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Leibniz-Institut für Höchstfrequenztechnik, Gustav-Kirchhoff-Str. 4, 12489 Berlin (Germany); Kneissl, Michael [Technische Universität Berlin, Institut für Festkörperphysik, Hardenbergstr. 36, EW 6-1, 10623 Berlin (Germany); Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Leibniz-Institut für Höchstfrequenztechnik, Gustav-Kirchhoff-Str. 4, 12489 Berlin (Germany)

    2014-08-04

    The design and Mg-doping profile of AlN/Al{sub 0.7}Ga{sub 0.3}N electron blocking heterostructures (EBH) for AlGaN multiple quantum well (MQW) light emitting diodes (LEDs) emitting below 250 nm was investigated. By inserting an AlN electron blocking layer (EBL) into the EBH, we were able to increase the quantum well emission power and significantly reduce long wavelength parasitic luminescence. Furthermore, electron leakage was suppressed by optimizing the thickness of the AlN EBL while still maintaining sufficient hole injection. Ultraviolet (UV)-C LEDs with very low parasitic luminescence (7% of total emission power) and external quantum efficiencies of 0.19% at 246 nm have been realized. This concept was applied to AlGaN MQW LEDs emitting between 235 nm and 263 nm with external quantum efficiencies ranging from 0.002% to 0.93%. After processing, we were able to demonstrate an UV-C LED emitting at 234 nm with 14.5 μW integrated optical output power and an external quantum efficiency of 0.012% at 18.2 A/cm{sup 2}.

  14. Fabrication and Characterization of Surrogate TRISO Particles Using 800μm ZrO<sub>2sub> Kernels

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jolly, Brian C. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States); Helmreich, Grant [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States); Cooley, Kevin M. [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States); Dyer, John [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States); Terrani, Kurt [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)

    2016-07-01

    In support of fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel development, coating development work is ongoing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to produce tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) coated fuel particles with both UN kernels and surrogate (uranium-free) kernels. The nitride kernels are used to increase fissile density in these SiC-matrix fuel pellets with details described elsewhere. The surrogate TRISO particles are necessary for separate effects testing and for utilization in the consolidation process development. This report focuses on the fabrication and characterization of surrogate TRISO particles which use 800μm in diameter ZrO<sub>2sub> microspheres as the kernel.

  15. Formation of metastable cubic phase in Ce{sub 100−x}Al{sub x} (x=45, 50) alloys and their thermal and magnetic properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Idzikowski, Bogdan, E-mail: idzi@ifmpan.poznan.pl [Institute of Molecular Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Smoluchowskiego 17, 60-179 Poznań (Poland); Centre for Advanced Materials and Smart Structures, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okólna 2, 50-422 Wrocław (Poland); Śniadecki, Zbigniew [Institute of Molecular Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Smoluchowskiego 17, 60-179 Poznań (Poland); Centre for Advanced Materials and Smart Structures, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okólna 2, 50-422 Wrocław (Poland); Puźniak, Roman [Institute of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Aleja Lotników 32/46, 02-668 Warszawa (Poland); Kaczorowski, Dariusz [Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 1410, 50-950 Wrocław (Poland); Centre for Advanced Materials and Smart Structures, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okólna 2, 50-422 Wrocław (Poland)

    2017-01-01

    Ce{sub 100−x}Al{sub x} (x=45 and 50) alloys were synthesized by rapid quenching technique in the form of ribbons composed of nanocrystalline phase of CeAl with the ClCs-type structure (Pm-3m space group) embedded in an amorphous matrix. The cubic CeAl phase is known as metastable with random distribution of Ce and Al atoms in the unit cell. The crystalline volume fraction is about 7.5% in Ce{sub 55}Al{sub 45} and 3% in Ce{sub 50}Al{sub 50}. The alloy Ce{sub 55}Al{sub 45} shows better thermal stability than Ce{sub 50}Al{sub 50}, indicated by higher effective activation energy and higher crystallization temperature. Small off-stoichiometry in Ce{sub 55}Al{sub 45} results in degrading the glass forming ability and promotes formation of the cubic CeAl phase, as confirmed by magnetic measurements. In both alloys, the Ce ions are in stable trivalent state and order magnetically near 20 K. Another magnetic phase transition close to 10 K was found for Ce{sub 50}Al{sub 50} and was attributed to the presence of the well-known stable orthorhombic CeAl phase. To the best of our knowledge, the magnetic behavior of the CeAl cubic phase is reported here for the first time. - Highlights: • Synthesis of metastable cubic CeAl phase by rapid quenching. • The Ce ions in Ce{sub 55}Al{sub 45} and Ce{sub 50}Al{sub 50} are in stable trivalent state. • Magnetic transition near 10 K connected with the orthorhombic CeAl phase. • Phase transition at about 20 K originates from the cubic CeAl phase.

  16. Controllable Shrinking of Glass Capillary Nanopores Down to sub-10 nm by Wet-Chemical Silanization for Signal-Enhanced DNA Translocation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xu, Xiaolong; Li, Chuanping; Zhou, Ya; Jin, Yongdong

    2017-10-27

    Diameter is a major concern for nanopore based sensing. However, directly pulling glass capillary nanopore with diameter down to sub-10 nm is very difficult. So, post treatment is sometimes necessary. Herein, we demonstrate a facile and effective wet-chemical method to shrink the diameter of glass capillary nanopore from several tens of nanometers to sub-10 nm by disodium silicate hydrolysis. Its benefits for DNA translocation are investigated. The shrinking of glass capillary nanopore not only slows down DNA translocation, but also enhances DNA translocation signal and signal-to-noise ratio significantly (102.9 for 6.4 nm glass nanopore, superior than 15 for a 3 nm silicon nitride nanopore). It also affects DNA translocation behaviors, making the approach and glass capillary nanopore platform promising for DNA translocation studies.

  17. Core-size regulated aggregation/disaggregation of citrate-coated gold nanoparticles (5-50 nm) and dissolved organic matter: Extinction, emission, and scattering evidence

    Science.gov (United States)

    Esfahani, Milad Rabbani; Pallem, Vasanta L.; Stretz, Holly A.; Wells, Martha J. M.

    2018-01-01

    mixtures of CT-GNP-5 or -10 with DOM, whereas emissions for mixtures of CT-GNP-30 or -50 with DOM were enhanced at the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) wavelength. The emission spectra (ultraviolet range) for protein-like constituents of DOM were quenched. Resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) was more intense for the CT-GNP-30 and -50 than for the CT-GNP-5 and -10 controls. Intensity-based DLS particle size distributions (PSDs) of DOM controls, CT-GNP-5 and -10 nm controls, and 5- and 10 nm GNP-DOM mixtures exhibited multimodal aggregation. Analyses of CT-GNP-5 and CT-GNP-10 nm mixtures with DOM indicated overcoating of DOM molecules occurred in close proximity (systems.

  18. CCN activation experiments with adipic acid: effect of particle phase and adipic acid coatings on soluble and insoluble particles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    S. S. Hings

    2008-07-01

    Full Text Available Slightly soluble atmospherically relevant organic compounds may influence particle CCN activity and therefore cloud formation. Adipic acid is a frequently employed surrogate for such slightly soluble organic materials. The 11 published experimental studies on the CCN activity of adipic acid particles are not consistent with each other nor do they, in most cases, agree with the Köhler theory. The CCN activity of adipic acid aerosol particles was studied over a significantly wider range of conditions than in any previous single study. The work spans the conditions of the previous studies and also provides alternate methods for producing "wet" (deliquesced solution droplets and dry adipic acid particles without the need to produce them by atomization of aqueous solutions. The experiments suggest that the scatter in the previously published CCN measurements is most likely due to the difficulty of producing uncontaminated adipic acid particles by atomization of solutions and possibly also due to uncertainties in the calibration of the instruments. The CCN activation of the small (d<sub>m><150 nm initially dry particles is subject to a deliquescence barrier, while for the larger particles the activation follows the Köhler curve. Wet adipic acid particles follow the Köhler curve over the full range of particle diameters studied. In addition, the effect of adipic acid coatings on the CCN activity of both soluble and insoluble particles has also been studied. When a water-soluble core is coated by adipic acid, the CCN-hindering effect of particle phase is eliminated. An adipic acid coating on hydrophobic soot yields a CCN active particle. If the soot particle is relatively small (d<sub>core>≤102 nm, the CCN activity of the coated particles approaches the deliquescence line of adipic acid, suggesting that the total size of the particle determines CCN activation and the soot core acts as a scaffold.

  19. Synthesis and characterization of Bi{sub 1.56}Sb{sub 1.48}Co{sub 0.96}O{sub 7} pyrochlore sun-light-responsive photocatalyst

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Naceur, Benhadria, E-mail: nacer1974@yahoo.fr [Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry and Application, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Science and Technology of Oran (USTO M.B), BP 1505, El M’naouar, 31000 Oran (Algeria); Abdelkader, Elaziouti, E-mail: elaziouti_a@yahoo.com [Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry and Application, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Science and Technology of Oran (USTO M.B), BP 1505, El M’naouar, 31000 Oran (Algeria); Dr Moulay Tahar University, Saida (Algeria); Nadjia, Laouedj, E-mail: nlaouedj@yahoo.fr [Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry and Application, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Science and Technology of Oran (USTO M.B), BP 1505, El M’naouar, 31000 Oran (Algeria); Dr Moulay Tahar University, Saida (Algeria); Sellami, Mayouf, E-mail: Mourad7dz@yahoo.fr [Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry and Application, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Science and Technology of Oran (USTO M.B), BP 1505, El M’naouar, 31000 Oran (Algeria); Noureddine, Bettahar, E-mail: nbettahar2001@yahoo.fr [Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry and Application, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Science and Technology of Oran (USTO M.B), BP 1505, El M’naouar, 31000 Oran (Algeria)

    2016-02-15

    Graphical abstract: Heterogeneous photo Fenton process with dye sensitized mechanism of RhB by Bi{sub 1.56}Sb{sub 1.48}Co{sub 0.96}O{sub 7} compound. - Highlights: • Bi{sub 1.56}Sb{sub 1.48}Co{sub 0.96}O{sub 7} (BSCO) catalyst was synthesized by improved solid state reaction method. • BSCO/H{sub 2}O{sub 2}/UVA and BSCO/H{sub 2}O{sub 2}/SL catalyst systems exhibit excellent photocatalytic activities for rhodamine B. • The photocatalytic degradation was preceded via heterogeneous photo Fenton mechanism process. • ·OH radicals are the main reactive species for the degradation of RhB. - Abstract: Novel nanostructure pyrochlore Bi{sub 1.56}Sb{sub 1.48}Co{sub 0.96}O{sub 7} was successfully synthesized via solid state reaction method in air. The as-synthesized photocatalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy techniques. The results showed that the BSCO was crystallized with the pyrochlore-type structure, cubic crystal system and space group Fd3m. The average particle size and band gap for BSCO were D = 76.29 nm and E{sub g} = 1.50 eV respectively. Under the optimum conditions for discoloration of the dye: initial concentration of 20 mg L{sup −1} RhB, pH 7, 25 °C, 0.5 mL H{sub 2}O{sub 2} and BSCO/dye mass ration of 1 g L{sup −1}, 97.77 and 90.16% of RhB were removed with BSCO/H{sub 2}O{sub 2} photocatalytic system within 60 min of irradiation time under UVA- and SL irradiations respectively. Pseudo-second-order kinetic model gave the best fit, with highest correlation coefficients (R{sup 2} ≥ 0.99). On the base of these results, the mechanism of the enhancement of the discoloration efficiency was discussed. .

  20. Synthesis and electrochemical study of Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3}: A defect spinel cathode for rechargeable magnesium battery

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saha, Partha [Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); US Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Morgantown, WV 26507 (United States); Jampani, Prashanth H., E-mail: pjampani@pitt.edu [Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); Hong, DaeHo [Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); Gattu, Bharat [Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); Poston, James A.; Manivannan, Ayyakkannu [US Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Morgantown, WV 26507 (United States); Datta, Moni Kanchan [Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); US Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Morgantown, WV 26507 (United States); Kumta, Prashant N., E-mail: pkumta@pitt.edu [Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); US Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Morgantown, WV 26507 (United States); Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); School of Dental Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States); Center for Complex Engineered Multifunctional Materials, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (United States)

    2015-12-15

    Graphical abstract: Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3}, a defect oxide spinel derived by the Pechini route, was tested as cathode for rechargeable magnesium battery. TEM and XRD analyses of Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3} shows the formation of ∼100 nm sized nano particles in the cubic defect spinel structure (space group: Fd3m; unit cell: 0.833294 nm). Cyclic voltammetry illustrates a reversible reaction occurring between 0.3 and 1.5 V versus magnesium. Galvanostatic cycling of the Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3} cathode exhibits a low capacity of ∼12.4 mAh/g up to 20 cycle with ∼99.9% Coulombic efficiency when cycled at a current rate of ∼C/27. XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) surface probe of magnesiated/de-magnesiated electrodes confirm a change in the redox center of Mn-ions during intercalation/de-intercalation of Mg-ion from the Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3} electrode. The low capacity of Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3} electrode mainly stem from the kinetic limitation of Mg-ion removal from the defect oxide spinel as the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results of electrodes after 1st and 2nd cycle show that charge transfer resistance, R{sub e}, increases post charge state whereas interfacial resistance, R{sub i}, increases after discharge state, respectively. - Highlights: • Pechini process yields 100 nm sized particles of the defect cubic spinel Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3}. • Stable capacity of ∼12.4 mAh/g obtained at C/27 rate and 99.9% Coulombic efficiency. • XPS shows change in valence state of Mn{sup 3+}/Mn{sup 4+} center with cycling. • Low capacity stems from increase in charge-transfer and interfacial resistances with cycling. - Abstract: Mg{sub 1.5}MnO{sub 3}, a defect oxide spinel (space group: Fd3m; unit cell: 0.833294 nm) of particle size ∼100 nm derived by the Pechini route was tested as a cathode for rechargeable magnesium battery. Cyclic voltammetry illustrates a reversible reaction occurring in the 0.3–2.0 V potential window versus magnesium. The spinel however

  1. Photocatalytic activity of the binary composite CeO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} for degradation of dye

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Phanichphant, Sukon [Materials Science Research Center, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 (Thailand); Nakaruk, Auppatham [Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000 (Thailand); Centre of Excellence for Innovation and Technology for Water Treatment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000 (Thailand); Channei, Duangdao, E-mail: duangdaoc@nu.ac.th [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000 (Thailand); Research Center for Academic Excellence in Petroleum, Petrochemicals and Advanced Materials, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000 (Thailand)

    2016-11-30

    Highlights: • The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the CeO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} composite can be explained by the presence of the SiO{sub 2} adsorbent, which effectively increased the surface area of the CeO{sub 2}. • The increased surface area of CeO{sub 2} should be helpful to facilitate more effective adsorption sites, which enhances the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant significantly. • SiO{sub 2} modification is effective in separating the photogenerated electrons and holes, which is of great importance for photocatalytic activity. • SiO{sub 2} acted as a carrier for CeO{sub 2} attachment and avoided the agglomeration of CeO{sub 2} particles. - Abstract: In this study, CeO{sub 2} photocatalyst was modified by composite with SiO{sub 2} to increase efficiency and improve photocatalytic activity. The as-prepared SiO{sub 2} particles have been incorporated into the precursor mixture of CeO{sub 2} by homogeneous precipitation and subsequent calcination process. The phase compositions of CeO{sub 2} before and after compositing with SiO{sub 2} were identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology and particle size of CeO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} composite was analyzed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results showed SiO{sub 2} spheres with the particle size approximately 100–120 nm, and a uniform layer of CeO{sub 2} nanoparticles with a diameter of about 5–7 nm that were fully composite to the surfaces of SiO{sub 2}. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique was carried out in order to characterize the change in valence state and composite characteristic by shifted peaks of binding energies. The photocatalytic activity was studied through the degradation of Rhodamine B in aqueous solution under visible light exposure. The highest photocatalytic efficiency of CeO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} composite was also obtained. To explain the high photocatalytic

  2. Yttrium-enriched YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} thin films for coated conductors fabricated by pulsed laser deposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Khoryushin, Alexey V., E-mail: khoryushin@ya.ru [Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby (Denmark); Mozhaev, Peter B.; Mozhaeva, Julia E.; Andersen, Niels H. [Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby (Denmark); Grivel, Jean-Claude [Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, Technical University of Denmark, DK-4000 Roskilde (Denmark); Hansen, Jørn Bindslev; Jacobsen, Claus S. [Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby (Denmark)

    2013-02-14

    Highlights: ► YBCO films were fabricated by PLD from targets of various elemental compositions. ► The Y-enriched films contain yttria nanoparticles which provide efficient pinning. ► The best film has 5.5× higher j{sub c}(5 T,50 K) = 2.6MA/cm{sup 2} comparing with a reference film. ► The Y-enriched films remain c-oriented up to 500 nm. ► Films demonstrate no j{sub c} suppression with thickness and remarkable stability with time. -- Abstract: The effects of excess yttria on the structural and electrical properties of the YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} (YBCO) thin films are studied. The films were deposited on (LaAlO{sub 3}){sub 0.3}–(Sr{sub 2}AlTaO{sub 8}){sub 0.7} substrates by pulsed laser ablation from targets with different elemental composition. An increase of yttrium content of the target leads to formation of porous films with significantly improved current-carrying capabilities. Structural studies of these films reveal presence of yttria nanoparticles embedded into the YBCO matrix. The highest obtained critical current density in an external magnetic field of 5 T was 2.6 MA/cm{sup 2} at 50 K and 9.4 MA/cm{sup 2} at 20 K. The fabricated Y-enriched YBCO films remain c-oriented at least up to 600 nm thickness with no significant suppression of the critical current density.

  3. Comparing magnetostructural transitions in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} Heusler alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dubenko, Igor [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Granovsky, Alexander [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Lahderanta, Erkki [Lappeenranta University of Technology, 53851 (Finland); Kashirin, Maxim; Makagonov, Vladimir [Voronezh State Technical University, Voronezh 394026 (Russian Federation); Aryal, Anil; Quetz, Abdiel; Pandey, Sudip [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Rodionov, Igor [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Samanta, Tapas; Stadler, Shane [Department of Physics & Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 (United States); Mazumdar, Dipanjan, E-mail: dmazumdar@siu.edu [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Ali, Naushad [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States)

    2016-03-01

    The crystal structure, magnetic and transport properties, including resistivity and thermopower, of Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} Heusler alloys were studied in the (10–400) K temperature interval. We show that their physical properties are remarkably different, thereby pointing to different origin of their magnetostructural transition (MST). A Seebeck coefficient (S) was found to pass minimum of about −20 µV/K in respect of temperature for both compounds. It was shown that MST observed for both compounds results in jump-like changes in S for Ga-based compound and jump in resistivity of about 20 and 200 µΩ cm for Ga and In –based compounds, respectively. The combined analyzes of the present results with that from literature show that the density of states at the Fermi level does not change strongly at the MST in the case of Ni–Mn–In alloys as compared to that of Ni–Mn–Ga. - Graphical abstract: Temperature dependencies of resistivity for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} obtained on heating (open symbols) and cooling (closed symbols). Arrows indicate the temperature of direct (T{sub M}) and inverse (T{sub A}) martensitic transitions and ferromagnetic ordering of the austenitic (T{sub C}) and martensitic (T{sub CM}) phases. The T{sub CM}=T{sub A}/T{sub M} in the case of Ga-based alloy. - Highlights: • Magnetostructural transitions (MST) in two compounds with same parent material. • The figure exemplifies how sensitive MST properties are to the density of states. • Proper understanding is required for utilizing these multifunctional materials.

  4. Sub-50 fs excited state dynamics of 6-chloroguanine upon deep ultraviolet excitation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mondal, Sayan; Puranik, Mrinalini

    2016-05-18

    The photophysical properties of natural nucleobases and their respective nucleotides are ascribed to the sub-picosecond lifetime of their first singlet states in the UV-B region (260-350 nm). Electronic transitions of the ππ* type, which are stronger than those in the UV-B region, lie at the red edge of the UV-C range (100-260 nm) in all isolated nucleobases. The lowest energetic excited states in the UV-B region of nucleobases have been investigated using a plethora of experimental and theoretical methods in gas and solution phases. The sub-picosecond lifetime of these molecules is not a general attribute of all nucleobases but specific to the five primary nucleobases and a few xanthine and methylated derivatives. To determine the overall UV photostability, we aim to understand the effect of more energetic photons lying in the UV-C region on nucleobases. To determine the UV-C initiated photophysics of a nucleobase system, we chose a halogen substituted purine, 6-chloroguanine (6-ClG), that we had investigated previously using resonance Raman spectroscopy. We have performed quantitative measurements of the resonance Raman cross-section across the Bb absorption band (210-230 nm) and constructed the Raman excitation profiles. We modeled the excitation profiles using Lee and Heller's time-dependent theory of resonance Raman intensities to extract the initial excited state dynamics of 6-ClG within 30-50 fs after photoexcitation. We found that imidazole and pyrimidine rings of 6-ClG undergo expansion and contraction, respectively, following photoexcitation to the Bb state. The amount of distortions of the excited state structure from that of the ground state structure is reflected by the total internal reorganization energy that is determined at 112 cm(-1). The contribution of the inertial component of the solvent response towards the total reorganization energy was obtained at 1220 cm(-1). In addition, our simulation also yields an instantaneous response of the first

  5. Sub-10 nm patterning with DNA nanostructures: a short perspective

    Science.gov (United States)

    Du, Ke; Park, Myeongkee; Ding, Junjun; Hu, Huan; Zhang, Zheng

    2017-11-01

    DNA is the hereditary material that contains our unique genetic code. Since the first demonstration of two-dimensional (2D) nanopatterns by using designed DNA origami ˜10 years ago, DNA has evolved into a novel technique for 2D and 3D nanopatterning. It is now being used as a template for the creation of sub-10 nm structures via either ‘top-down’ or ‘bottom-up’ approaches for various applications spanning from nanoelectronics, plasmonic sensing, and nanophotonics. This perspective starts with an histroric overview and discusses the current state-of-the-art in DNA nanolithography. Emphasis is put on the challenges and prospects of DNA nanolithography as the next generation nanomanufacturing technique.

  6. Ion projection lithography: November 2000 status and sub-70-nm prospects

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kaesmaier, Rainer; Wolter, Andreas; Loeschner, Hans; Schunck, Stefan

    2000-10-01

    Among all next generation lithography (NGL) options Ion Projection Lithography (IPL) offers the smallest (particle) wavelength of 5x10- 5nm (l00keV Helium ions). Thus, 4x reduction ion-optics has diffraction limits IOS) has been realized and assembled. In parallel to the PDT-IOS effort, at Leica Jena a test bench for a vertical vacuum 300mm-wafer stage has been realized. Operation of magnetic bearing supported stage movement has already been demonstrated. As ASML vacuum compatible optical wafer alignment system, with 3nm(3(sigma) ) precision demonstrated in air, has been integrated to this wafer test bench system recently. Parallel to the IPL tool development, Infineon Technologies Mask House and the Institute for Microelectronics Stuttgart are intensively working on the development of IPL stencil masks with success in producing 150mm and 200mm stencil masks as reported elsewhere. This paper is focused on information about the status of the PDT-IOS tool.

  7. Synthesis and characterization of hexagonal ferrite Sr{sub 1.8}Sm{sub 0.2}Co{sub 2}Ni{sub 1.50}Fe{sub 10.50}O{sub 22}/PST thin films for high frequency application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ali, Irshad, E-mail: irshadalibzu@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan P.O. 60800 (Pakistan); Islam, M.U. [Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan P.O. 60800 (Pakistan); Ashiq, Muhammad Naeem, E-mail: naeemashiqqau@yahoo.com [Institute of Chemical Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800 (Pakistan); Asif Iqbal, M. [Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan P.O. 60800 (Pakistan); College of E & ME, National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Karamat, Nazia [Institute of Chemical Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800 (Pakistan); Azhar Khan, M. [Department of Physics, Islamia University, Bahawalpur 63100 (Pakistan); Sadiq, Imran [Centre of Excellence in Solid State Physics, University of The Punjab, Lahore (Pakistan); Ijaz, Sana [Institute of Chemical Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800 (Pakistan); Shakir, Imran [Sustainable Energy Technologies (SET) Center, College of Engineering, King Saud University (Saudi Arabia)

    2015-11-01

    Y-type hexagonal ferrite (Sr{sub 1.8}Sm{sub 0.2}Co{sub 2}Ni{sub 1.50} Fe{sub 10.50}O{sub 22}) was prepared by a normal microemulsion route. The ferrite/polymer composites thin films are formed at different ferrite ratios in pure polystyrene matrix. The X-ray diffraction analysis shows broad peak at low angles which is due to the PST and the peaks for Y-type ferrite are also observed in composite samples. The peaks become more intense and show less broadening with increasing concentration of ferrite which suggests that crystallinity is improved with the addition of ferrite. DC resistivity of the composites samples is lower than that of the pure PST and decreases by increasing ferrite filler into the polymer. This decrease of resistivity is mainly due to the addition of comparatively less resistive ferrite into the highly insulating polymer matrix of PST. The observed increase in the dielectric constant (permittivity) with increasing concentration ratio of ferrites is mainly due to the electron exchange between Fe{sup 2+}↔Fe{sup 3+}+e{sup −} which consequently results in enhancement of electric polarization as well as dielectric constant. The existence of resonances peaks in the dielectric loss tangent spectra is due to the fact when the external applied frequency becomes equal to the jumping frequency of electrons between Fe{sup 2+} and Fe{sup 3+}. The increasing behavior of the dielectric constant, dielectric loss and AC conductivity with increasing ferrite ratio in PST matrix proposes their versatile use in different technological applications especially for electromagnetic shielding. - Highlights: • Y-type hexaferrites were synthesized by the microemulsion route. • AC activation is lower than DC activation energy. • Ferrite/polymer composites thin films are formed. • The peaks become more intense with increasing concentration of ferrite. • Values of “n” confirm the hopping mechanism in all thin films.

  8. Microstructure and mechanical properties of ZrO{sub 2} particle dispersion strengthened 16MnV steel

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, B.A. [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Wang, N. [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); CNOOC Research Institute of Oil and Petrochemicals (CRI), Beijing 100000 (China); Yang, Y.J.; Zhong, H. [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Ma, M.Z., E-mail: mz550509@ysu.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Zhang, X.Y.; Liu, R.P. [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China)

    2017-04-24

    The dispersion strengthened 16MnV steels with 0.5 wt% and 1.2 wt% ZrO{sub 2} particles were prepared using medium frequency induction melting furnace. The ZrO{sub 2} particles mixed with iron powder were added into the 16MnV steel through cored-wire injection process. Optical metallographic microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to observe and analyze the microstructure, fracture morphology, dislocation configuration and strengthening mechanism of ZrO{sub 2} particle dispersion strengthened 16MnV steel under as-cast, normalizing and quenching states. Results showed that the strength of 16MnV steel under various states increased significantly after the addition of dispersed ZrO{sub 2} particles. Analysis indicates that the dislocation cell formed by high density dislocation around ZrO{sub 2} particles and attractive interaction between those particles are the main strengthening mechanism of dispersion strengthened 16MnV steel. The tensile test results showed that remarkable strengthening effect of ZrO{sub 2} particle on 16MnV steel has been observed. As the addition of 1.2 wt% ZrO{sub 2}, the improvement of strength in ZrO{sub 2}/16MnV is approximately 37.69% for as-casting, 24.2% after normalization and 29.96% after quenching, respectively. The normalized ZrO{sub 2}/16MnV with 1.2 wt% ZrO{sub 2} has the highest strength of 1453 MPa.

  9. Size dependent magnetic and electrical properties of Ba-doped nanocrystalline BiFeO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hasan, Mehedi, E-mail: mhrizvi@gce.buet.ac.bd; Hakim, M. A.; Zubair, M. A.; Hussain, A.; Islam, Md. Fakhrul [Department of Glass and Ceramic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000 (Bangladesh); Basith, M. A., E-mail: mabasith@phy.buet.ac.bd [Department of Physics, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka-1000 (Bangladesh); Hossain, Md. Sarowar [S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Salt Lake City, Kolkata, West Bengal 700098 (India); Ahmmad, Bashir [Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa 992-8510 (Japan)

    2016-03-15

    Improvement in magnetic and electrical properties of multiferroic BiFeO{sub 3} in conjunction with their dependence on particle size is crucial due to its potential applications in multifunctional miniaturized devices. In this investigation, we report a study on particle size dependent structural, magnetic and electrical properties of sol-gel derived Bi{sub 0.9}Ba{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles of different sizes ranging from ∼ 12 to 49 nm. The substitution of Bi by Ba significantly suppresses oxygen vacancies, reduces leakage current density and Fe{sup 2+} state. An improvement in both magnetic and electrical properties is observed for 10 % Ba-doped BiFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles compared to its undoped counterpart. The saturation magnetization of Bi{sub 0.9}Ba{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles increase with reducing particle size in contrast with a decreasing trend of ferroelectric polarization. Moreover, a first order metamagnetic transition is noticed for ∼ 49 nm Bi{sub 0.9}Ba{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles which disappeared with decreasing particle size. The observed strong size dependent multiferroic properties are attributed to the complex interaction between vacancy induced crystallographic defects, multiple valence states of Fe, uncompensated surface spins, crystallographic distortion and suppression of spiral spin cycloid of BiFeO{sub 3}.

  10. Use of p- and n-type vapor phase doping and sub-melt laser anneal for extension junctions in sub-32 nm CMOS technology

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nguyen, N.D., E-mail: Duy.Nguyen@imec.b [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Rosseel, E. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Takeuchi, S. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Department of Physics and Astronomy, KU Leuven, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Everaert, J.-L. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Yang, L. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Department of Chemistry and INPAC Institute, KU Leuven, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Goossens, J.; Moussa, A.; Clarysse, T.; Richard, O.; Bender, H. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Zaima, S. [Department of Crystalline Materials Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Nagoya, 464-8603 (Japan); Sakai, A. [Department of System Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, 1-3 Machikaneyama-cho, Toyonaka, Osaka 560-8531 (Japan); Loo, R. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Lin, J.C. [TSMC, R and D, 8, Li-Hsin 6th Rd., Hsinchu Science-Based Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China); TSMC assignee at IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Vandervorst, W. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Instituut voor Kern- en Stralingsfysika - IKS, KU Leuven, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium); Caymax, M. [IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001 Leuven (Belgium)

    2010-01-01

    We evaluated the combination of vapor phase doping and sub-melt laser anneal as a novel doping strategy for the fabrication of source and drain extension junctions in sub-32 nm CMOS technology, aiming at both planar and non-planar device applications. High quality ultra shallow junctions with abrupt profiles in Si substrates were demonstrated on 300 mm Si substrates. The excellent results obtained for the sheet resistance and the junction depth with boron allowed us to fulfill the requirements for the 32 nm as well as for the 22 nm technology nodes in the PMOS case by choosing appropriate laser anneal conditions. For instance, using 3 laser scans at 1300 {sup o}C, we measured an active dopant concentration of about 2.1 x 10{sup 20} cm{sup -} {sup 3} and a junction depth of 12 nm. With arsenic for NMOS, ultra shallow junctions were achieved as well. However, as also seen for other junction fabrication schemes, low dopant activation level and active dose (in the range of 1-4 x 10{sup 13} cm{sup -} {sup 2}) were observed although dopant concentration versus depth profiles indicate that the dopant atoms were properly driven into the substrate during the anneal step. The electrical deactivation of a large part of the in-diffused dopants was responsible for the high sheet resistance values.

  11. Use of p- and n-type vapor phase doping and sub-melt laser anneal for extension junctions in sub-32 nm CMOS technology

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nguyen, N.D.; Rosseel, E.; Takeuchi, S.; Everaert, J.-L.; Yang, L.; Goossens, J.; Moussa, A.; Clarysse, T.; Richard, O.; Bender, H.; Zaima, S.; Sakai, A.; Loo, R.; Lin, J.C.; Vandervorst, W.; Caymax, M.

    2010-01-01

    We evaluated the combination of vapor phase doping and sub-melt laser anneal as a novel doping strategy for the fabrication of source and drain extension junctions in sub-32 nm CMOS technology, aiming at both planar and non-planar device applications. High quality ultra shallow junctions with abrupt profiles in Si substrates were demonstrated on 300 mm Si substrates. The excellent results obtained for the sheet resistance and the junction depth with boron allowed us to fulfill the requirements for the 32 nm as well as for the 22 nm technology nodes in the PMOS case by choosing appropriate laser anneal conditions. For instance, using 3 laser scans at 1300 o C, we measured an active dopant concentration of about 2.1 x 10 20 cm - 3 and a junction depth of 12 nm. With arsenic for NMOS, ultra shallow junctions were achieved as well. However, as also seen for other junction fabrication schemes, low dopant activation level and active dose (in the range of 1-4 x 10 13 cm - 2 ) were observed although dopant concentration versus depth profiles indicate that the dopant atoms were properly driven into the substrate during the anneal step. The electrical deactivation of a large part of the in-diffused dopants was responsible for the high sheet resistance values.

  12. Preparation and electrical properties of Mn{sub 1.05−y}Co{sub 1.95−x−z−w}Ni{sub x}Mg{sub y}Al{sub z}Fe{sub w}O{sub 4} NTC ceramic derived from microemulsion method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xia, Junbo [Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices under Special Environments, CAS, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Electronic Information Materials and Devices, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, Urumqi 830011 (China); University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China); Zhao, Qing, E-mail: zhaoq@ms.xjb.ac.cn [Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices under Special Environments, CAS, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Electronic Information Materials and Devices, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, Urumqi 830011 (China); Gao, Bo [Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices under Special Environments, CAS, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Electronic Information Materials and Devices, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, Urumqi 830011 (China); University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China); Chang, Aimin, E-mail: changam@ms.xjb.ac.cn [Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices under Special Environments, CAS, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Electronic Information Materials and Devices, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, Urumqi 830011 (China); Zhang, Bo; Ma, Renjun [Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices under Special Environments, CAS, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Electronic Information Materials and Devices, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, Urumqi 830011 (China); University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049 (China)

    2014-04-05

    Highlights: • The NTC thermister nano-powders Mn{sub 1.05−y}Co{sub 1.95−x−z−w}Ni{sub x}Mg{sub y}Al{sub z}Fe{sub w}O{sub 4} were prepared by microemulsion method. • The metal ions were subsided after twice sediment reaction. • The specimens show good electrical properties by doping some nontransition metals. -- Abstract: The NTC thermistor nano-powders of Mn{sub 1.05−y}Co{sub 1.95−x−z−w}Ni{sub x}Mg{sub y}Al{sub z}Fe{sub w}O{sub 4} were prepared by microemulsion method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image showed that the particles were well distributed. The mean particle-size was 72 nm. The structure of the precursor was investigated with Fourier infrared spectrometer (FI). The compositions of the powder and the as-sintered ceramic were evaluated by Energy Disperse Spectroscopy (EDS). X-ray diffraction (XRD) result indicated that the sintered samples were in the spinel structure. The room temperature resistivity ρ{sub 25}, material constant B{sub 25/85} and activation energies of the NTC thermistor are in the range of 1173–19,059 Ω cm, 3169–3771 k, 0.2672–0.3136 eV. The room temperature resistivity and B{sub 25/85} constant were found to increase with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} content. The Mn{sub 0.9}Co{sub 1.2}Ni{sub 0.21}Mg{sub 0.15}Al{sub 0.09}Fe{sub 0.45}(A2) and Mn{sub 0.9}Co{sub 1.2}Ni{sub 0.27}Mg{sub 0.15}Al{sub 0.03}Fe{sub 0.45}(A3) specimens both showed a 200 °C resistance drift (ΔR/R) within 10% after aging at 910 °C for 600 h.

  13. 50 CFR Table 12 to Part 679 - Steller Sea Lion Protection Areas, 3nm No Groundfish Fishing Sites

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-10-01

    ... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 9 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Steller Sea Lion Protection Areas, 3nm No... EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE OFF ALASKA Pt. 679, Table 12 Table 12 to Part 679—Steller Sea Lion Protection Areas, 3nm No Groundfish Fishing Sites Steller Sea Lion Protection Areas, 3nm No Groundfish Fishing Sites...

  14. Effect of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} in Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/AP composite particles on thermal decomposition of AP and on burning rate of the composite propellant

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ma, Zhenye [National Special Superfine Powder Engineering Research Center, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094 (China); Nanjing University of Technology, Nanjing (China); Li, Fengsheng; Bai, Huaping [National Special Superfine Powder Engineering Research Center, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094 (China)

    2006-12-15

    A technique of composite processing of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} and ammonium perchlorate (AP) was employed in making the propellant. The effects of composite processing of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} on catalytic activity, on the thermal decomposition of AP, and on the burning rate of the composite propellant were investigated in this paper. Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/AP composite particles were prepared by a novel solvent-nonsolvent method. The results show that AP is successfully coated on the surface of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Composite processing of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} and AP can improve the catalytic activity of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibits better catalytic effect with increasing Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} content. The larger interface between Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} and AP and lower density of composite propellant (with the added Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/AP composite particles) are responsible for the enhancement of the catalytic activity of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. (Abstract Copyright [2006], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

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

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

    2014-01-15

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

  16. TEA controllable preparation of magnetite nanoparticles (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs) with excellent magnetic properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Han, Chengliang, E-mail: clhan@issp.ac.cn [Department of Chemical and Material Engineering, Hefei University, Hefei 230601 (China); Zhu, Dejie [State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fuzhou 350002 (China); Wu, Hanzhao; Li, Yao; Cheng, Lu; Hu, Kunhong [Department of Chemical and Material Engineering, Hefei University, Hefei 230601 (China)

    2016-06-15

    A fast and controllable synthesis method for superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs) was developed in Fe(III)-triethanolamine (TEA) solution. The phase structure, morphology and particle size of the as-synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the magnetic particles were pure Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} with mean sizes of approximately 10 nm. The used TEA has key effects on the formation of well dispersing Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) result indicated that the as-obtained Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs exhibited superparamagnetic behavior and the saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) was about 70 emu/g, which had potential applications in magnetic science and technology. - Highlights: • The Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs are synthesized by a simple and low-cost hydrothermal approach. • The triethanolamine (TEA) played vital roles in the formation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs. • Our samples exhibited superparamagnetic and excellent dispersing properties in water.

  17. Structural and magnetic properties of Ni{sub 0.15}Mg{sub 0.1}Cu{sub 0.3}Zn{sub 0.45}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite prepared by NaOH-precipitation method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hou, Wei-xiao; Wang, Zhi, E-mail: zhiwang@tju.edu.cn

    2015-09-15

    Highlights: • NiMgCuZn ferrites were successfully prepared by low-temperature sintering. • NiMgCuZn ferrites have the advantages of both NiCuZn and MgCuZn ferrites. • NiMgCuZn ferrites exhibit high Curie temperature & high stability of permeability. - Abstract: The Ni{sub 0.15}Mg{sub 0.1}Cu{sub 0.3}Zn{sub 0.45}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite powders have been prepared by NaOH co-precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The XRD patterns confirm the single phase spinel structure of synthesized nanoparticles. The average crystallite size of the particles increases from 12 to 36 nm with calcining temperature (T{sub a}) from 500 to 800 °C. The saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) of the superparamagnetic particles was deduced by Langevin theory. Subsequently, the densification characteristics and magnetic properties of the low-temperature 950 °C-sintered ferrite bulk samples were also investigated. The magnetic measurement showed that the sintered bulk sample of T{sub a} = 600 °C has the highest initial permeability (μ{sub i}), lowest coercivity (H{sub c}), largest saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) and satisfactory thermal stability of μ{sub i}. The microstructures of sintered samples were examined using field emission scanning electric microscope (FESEM). The T{sub a} has significant influence on the bulk density, initial permeability, saturation magnetization and coercivity of Ni{sub 0.15}Mg{sub 0.1}Cu{sub 0.3}Zn{sub 0.45}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite.

  18. Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Poly-pyrrole hybrid nano-composite materials for super-capacitors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mallouki, M.; Tran-Van, F.; Sarrazin, C.; Chevrot, C. [Cergy-Pontoise Univ., Lab. de Physicochimie des Polymeres et des Interfaces (LPPI), EA 2528 95 (France); Fauvarque, J.F. [CNAM, Lab. d' Electrochimie Industrielle, 75 - Paris (France); Simon, P. [Universite Paul Sabatier, CIRIMAT-LCMIE, UMR 5085, 31 - Toulouse (France); De, A. [Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Calcutta (India)

    2004-07-01

    Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Poly-pyrrole hybrid nano-composite materials chemically synthesized from colloid particles of iron oxide in aqueous solution have been processed to realize electrode materials for super-capacitor applications. The performances have been evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and galvano-static techniques in a three-electrode cell. The capacitance of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}-PPy hybrid nano-composite doped with para-toluene-sulfonate reaches 47 mAh/g in PC/NEt{sub 4}BF{sub 4} with a good stability during cycling (loss of 3% after 1000 cycles). Transmission Electronic Microscopy indicates a porous nano-structure with spherical particles in a range of 400-500 nm which ensures a good accessibility of the electrolyte in the bulk of the electro-active hybrid material. Preliminary studies with room temperature ionic liquid show promising results since the specific capacitance reaches 427 F/g in 1- ethyl-3-methyl-imidazolium bis((tri-fluoro-methyl)sulfonyl)amide (EMITFSI). (authors)

  19. Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} nanoparticulate garnet ferrites: Comprehensive study on the synthesis and characterization fabricated by various routes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Niaz Akhtar, Majid, E-mail: majidniazakhtar@ciitlahore.edu.pk [Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Lahore 54000 (Pakistan); Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi,Selangor (Malaysia); Azhar Khan, Muhammad [Department of Physics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, 63100 (Pakistan); Ahmad, Mukhtar [Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Murtaza, G. [Centre for Advanced Studies in Physics, G.C. University, Lahore (Pakistan); Raza, Rizwan; Shaukat, S.F.; Asif, M.H. [Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Lahore 54000 (Pakistan); Nasir, Nadeem [Fundamental and Applied Sciences Department, National Textile University, Faisalabad (Pakistan); Abbas, Ghazanfar [Department of Physics, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan); Nazir, M.S. [Department of Chemical Engineering, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Lahore 54000 (Pakistan); Raza, M.R. [Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi,Selangor (Malaysia)

    2014-11-15

    The effects of synthesis methods such as sol–gel (SG), self combustion (SC) and modified conventional mixed oxide (MCMO) on the structure, morphology and magnetic properties of the (Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12}) garnet ferrites have been studied in the present work. The samples of Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} were sintered at 950 °C and 1150 °C (by SG and SC methods). For MCMO route the sintering was done at 1350 °C for 6 h. Synthesized samples prepared by various routes were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Impedance network analyzer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The structural analysis reveals that the samples are of single phase structure and shows variations in the particle sizes and cells volumes, prepared by various routes. FESEM and TEM images depict that grain size increases with the increase of sintering temperature from 40 nm to 100 nm.Magnetic measurements reveal that garnet ferrite synthesized by sol gel method has high initial permeability (60.22) and low magnetic loss (0.0004) as compared to other garnet ferrite samples, which were synthesized by self combustion and MCMO methods. The M–H loops exhibit very low coercivity which enables the use of these materials in relays and switching devices fabrications. Thus, the garnet nanoferrites with low magnetic loss prepared by different methods may open new horizon for electronic industry for their use in high frequency applications. - Highlights: • Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} garnet ferrites nanoparticles were synthesized by three different routes. • Impact of sintering temperature on the particle size of Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} was evaluated. • The magnetic studies suggest the applications in relays and switching devices.

  20. Interaction of Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−y} nanoparticles with SiO{sub 2}-effect of temperature and atmosphere

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kepinski, L., E-mail: L.Kepinski@int.pan.wroc.pl; Krajczyk, L.; Mista, W.

    2014-01-15

    Morphology, microstructure and phase evolution of homogeneous, nanocrystalline Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−x/2} mixed oxide (x=0.3 and 0.5), prepared by microemulsion method, supported on amorphous SiO{sub 2} was studied in oxidizing and reducing atmosphere by XRD, TEM, SEM-EDS and N{sub 2} adsorption. The system is structurally and chemically stable in the oxidizing atmosphere up to 1000 °C, exhibiting only a small increase of the mean crystallite size of the oxide to ∼4 nm. At 1100 °C formation of Er silicate with unusual structure isomorphic with y-Y{sub 2}Si{sub 2}O{sub 7} (yttrialite), stabilized by Ce{sup 4+} ions was observed. In the reducing atmosphere the Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−x/2} reacted with SiO{sub 2} already at 900 °C, due to high affinity of the reduced Ce{sup 3+} to form a silicate phase. At higher temperature the silicate crystallized into the tetragonal, low temperature A-(Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}){sub 2}Si{sub 2}O{sub 7} polymorph. Such systems, containing nanocrystalline silicate particles with Er{sup 3+} ions placed in well defined sites embedded in silica matrix, may be interesting as highly efficient active components of optical waveguides amplifiers integrated with Si microelectronics. The nanocrystalline Ce–Er–O/SiO{sub 2} system prepared by the impregnation of the silica with the aqueous solution of nitrates appeared to be chemically inhomogeneous and less stable in both oxidising and reducing atmosphere. - Graphical abstract: Structure evolution of Ce{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}O{sub 1.75} in air and in H{sub 2}. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Homogeneous 3 nm Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−y} particles were prepared and uniformly dispersed on SiO{sub 2}. • Er diffusion to SiO{sub 2} determines the stability of the mixed oxide in air to ∼1000 °C. • Spreading of Ce{sub 1−x}Er{sub x}O{sub 2−y} onto SiO{sub 2} occurs in hydrogen at 900 °C. • Nanocrystalline A-(Ce,Er){sub 2}Si{sub 2}O{sub 7} silicate forms in H{sub

  1. Particle-hole excitations in N=50 nuclei

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Johnstone, I.P.; Skouras, L.D.

    1997-01-01

    Energy levels in N=50 nuclei are calculated allowing single-particle excitations from the p 1/2 and g 9/2 shells into the d 5/2 , s 1/2 , d 3/2 , and g 7/2 shells. Important parts of the interaction are determined by least-squares fits to known levels. Agreement with experiment is very good. The high-spin particle-hole states appear to be mainly yrast levels in mass 93 and higher, but are not in 90 Zr. copyright 1997 The American Physical Society

  2. In vitro cytotoxicity tests of ZnO‐Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}‐Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3}-based varistor fabricated from ZnO micro and nanoparticle powders on L929 mouse cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sendi, Rabab Khalid, E-mail: last-name3@hotmail.com, E-mail: shahromx@hotmail.com, E-mail: ameerah7@hotmail.com; Mahmud, Shahrom, E-mail: last-name3@hotmail.com, E-mail: shahromx@hotmail.com, E-mail: ameerah7@hotmail.com; Munshi, Ayman, E-mail: last-name3@hotmail.com, E-mail: shahromx@hotmail.com, E-mail: ameerah7@hotmail.com [Nano-optoelectronics Research and Technology Laboratory (N.O.R.), School of Physics, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang (Malaysia); Seeni, Azman, E-mail: azanseeni@gmail.com [Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200, Bertam, Pulau Pinang (Malaysia)

    2014-10-24

    The present study investigated the cytotoxicity of ZnO‐Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}‐Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3}-varistors. To this effect, ZnO‐Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}‐Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} varistors fabricated from ZnO micro-and nanoparticle powders are prepared via conventional ceramic processing method. The effects of ZnO particle size on the properties of ZnO varistors are also investigated. The strong solid-state reaction during sintering may be attributed to the high surface area of the 20 nm ZnO nanoparticles that promote strong surface reaction. The intensity of XRD peaks reflected the high degree of crystallinity of the ZnO nanoparticles. However, the width of the peaks in case of ZnO nanoparticles has increased due to the quantum size effect. The cytotoxicity evaluation of ZnO varistor was conducted on mouse connective tissue fibroblast cells (L929) using Trypan Blue Exclusion Assay analysis. The results show that the four types of varistor samples lead to cellular mitochondrial dysfunction, morphological modifications and apoptosis at the various concentration range and the toxic effects are obviously displayed in high concentration samples. 20nm-VDR is the most toxic materials followed by 40nm-VDR, P8-VDR, and W4-VDR in a descending order.

  3. Nano crystalline Bi{sub 2}(VO{sub 5}) phases in lithium bismuth borate glasses containing mixed vanadium-nickel oxides

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yadav, Arti, E-mail: artidabhur@gmail.com; Khasa, S.; Dahiya, M. S. [Department of Physics, Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology, Murthal, India-131039 (India); Agarwal, A. [Department of Applied Physics, G. J. University of Science and Technology, Hisar, India-125001 (India)

    2016-05-23

    Glass composition 7V{sub 2}O{sub 5}·23Li{sub 2}O·20Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}·50B{sub 2}O{sub 3} and x(2NiO·V{sub 2}O{sub 5})·(30-x)Li{sub 2}O·20Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}·50B{sub 2}O{sub 3}, x=0, 2, 5, 7 and 10, were produced by conventional melt quenching technique. The quenched amorphous glass samples were annealed at temperatures 400°C and 500°C for 6 hours. The Bi{sub 2}(VO{sub 5}) crystallite were grown in all prepared glass matrix. Tn vanadium lithium bismuth borate glass (annealed), the some phrase of V{sub 2}O{sub 5}-crystal were observed along with the nano crystalline Bi{sub 2}(VO{sub 5}) phase. The sharp peaks in FTTR spectra of all annealed compositions were also compatible with the XRD diffraction peaks of the system under investigation. Average crystalline size (D) of the Bi{sub 2}(VO{sub 5}) nano-crystallite was ~30 nm for samples annealed at 400°C and ~42 nm for samples annealed at 500°C. Lattice parameter and the lattice strain for all the samples was also calculated corresponding to the (113) plane of Bi{sub 2}(VO{sub 5}) crystallite.

  4. Investigation of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} barrier film properties made by atomic layer deposition onto fluorescent tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminium molecular films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Maindron, Tony; Aventurier, Bernard [LETI/DOPT/SCOOP/Laboratoire des Composants pour la Visualisation, CEA-LETI, MINATEC Campus, 17 rue des Martyrs, F-38054 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France); Ghazouani, Ahlem; Jullien, Tony [LETI/DTSI/SDEP/Laboratoire Dépôt Equipe 2, CEA-LETI, MINATEC Campus, 17 rue des Martyrs, F-38054 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France); Rochat, Névine [LETI/DTSI/Service de Caractérisation des Matériaux et Composants, CEA-LETI, MINATEC Campus, 17 rue des Martyrs, F-38054 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France); Simon, Jean-Yves; Viasnoff, Emilie [LETI/DOPT/SCOOP/Laboratoire des Composants pour la Visualisation, CEA-LETI, MINATEC Campus, 17 rue des Martyrs, F-38054 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France)

    2013-12-02

    Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} films have been deposited at 85 °C by atomic layer deposition onto single 100 nm thick tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminium (AlQ{sub 3}) films made onto silicon wafers. It has been found that a thick ALD-deposited Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer (> 11 nm) greatly prevents the photo-oxidation of AlQ{sub 3} films when exposed to continuous UV irradiation (350 mW/cm{sup 2}). Thin Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} thicknesses (< 11 nm) on the contrary yield lower barrier performances. Defects in the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer have been easily observed as non-fluorescent AlQ{sub 3} singularities, or black spots, under UV light on the system Si/AlQ{sub 3}/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} stored into laboratory conditions (22 °C/50% Relative Humidity (RH)) for long time scale (∼ 2000 h). Accelerated aging conditions in a climatic chamber (85 °C/85% RH) also allow faster visualization of the same defects (168 h). The black spot density grows upon time and the black spot density occurrence rates have been calculated to be 0.024 h{sup −1}·cm{sup −2} and 0.243 h{sup −1}·cm{sup −2} respectively for the two testing conditions. A detailed investigation of these defects did show that they cannot be ascribed to the presence of a detectable particle. In that sense they are presumably the consequence of the existence of nanometre-scaled defects which cannot be detected onto fresh samples. Interestingly, an additional overcoating of ebeam-deposited SiO{sub 2} onto the Si/AlQ{sub 3}/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} sample helps to decrease drastically the black spot density occurrence rates down to 0.004 h{sup −1}·cm{sup −2} and 0.04 h{sup −1}·cm{sup −2} respectively for 22 °C/50% RH and 85 °C/85% RH testing conditions. These observations highlight the moisture sensitivity of low temperature ALD-deposited Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} films and confirm the general idea that a single Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} ALD film performs as an ultra-high barrier but needs to be overprotected from water condensation by an

  5. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and corrosion behaviour of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ni nano composite coatings

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ciubotariu, Alina-Crina [Dunarea de Jos, University of Galati, Metallurgy and Materials Science Faculty, Competences Center Interfaces-Tribocorrosion-Electrochemical Systems, CC-ITES, 47 Domneasca Street, 80008 Galati (Romania)], E-mail: Alina.Ciubotariu@ugal.ro; Benea, Lidia [Dunarea de Jos, University of Galati, Metallurgy and Materials Science Faculty, Competences Center Interfaces-Tribocorrosion-Electrochemical Systems, CC-ITES, 47 Domneasca Street, 80008 Galati (Romania); Lakatos-Varsanyi, Magda [Bay Zoltan Foundation, Institute for Materials Science and Technology, Budapest H-1116 (Hungary); Dragan, Viorel [Dunarea de Jos, University of Galati, Metallurgy and Materials Science Faculty, Competences Center Interfaces-Tribocorrosion-Electrochemical Systems, CC-ITES, 47 Domneasca Street, 80008 Galati (Romania)

    2008-05-20

    In this paper, the results on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and corrosion properties of electrodeposited nanostructured Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ni composite coatings are presented. The nanocomposite coatings were obtained by codeposition of alumina nanoparticles (13 nm) with nickel during plating process. The coating thickness was 50 {mu}m on steel support and an average of nano Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles inside of coatings at 15 vol.% was present. The structure of the coatings was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It has been found that the codeposition of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles with nickel disturbs the nickel coating's regular surface structure. The electrochemical behavior of the coatings in the corrosive solutions was investigated by polarization potentiodynamic and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods. As electrochemical test solutions 0.5 M sodium chloride and 0.5 M potassium sulphate were used in a three electrode open cell. The corrosion potential is shifted to more negative values for nanostructured coatings in 0.5 M sodium chloride. The polarization resistance in 0.5 M sodium chloride decreases in 24 h, but after that increases slowly. In 0.5 M potassium sulphate solution the polarization resistance decreases after 2 h and after 30 h of immersion the polarization resistance is higher than that of the beginning value. The corrosion rate calculated by polarization potentiodynamic curves obtained after 30 min from immersion in solution is smaller for nanostructured coatings in 0.5 M potassium sulphate (4.74 {mu}m/year) and a little bit bigger in 0.5 M sodium chloride (5.03 {mu}m/year)

  6. Can reduced size of metals induce hydrogen absorption: ZrAl{sub 2} case

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jacob, I., E-mail: izi@bgu.ac.il [Department of Nuclear Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105 (Israel); Deledda, S. [Physics Department, Institute for Energy Technology, P.O. Box 40, NO-2027 Kjeller (Norway); Bereznitsky, M. [Department of Nuclear Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105 (Israel); Yeheskel, O. [Nuclear Research Center - Negev, P.O. Box 9001, Beer Sheva 84190 (Israel); Filipek, S.M. [Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, 01-224 Warsaw (Poland); Mogilyanski, D.; Kimmel, G. [Institute for Applied Research, P.O. Box 653, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105 (Israel); Hauback, B.C. [Physics Department, Institute for Energy Technology, P.O. Box 40, NO-2027 Kjeller (Norway)

    2011-09-15

    Research highlights: > 15 nm particles of ZrAl{sub 2} and Zr(Al{sub 0.5}Co{sub 0.5}){sub 2} are obtained by attrition and cryomilling. > ZrAl{sub 2} nanoparticles remain inert to hydrogen absorption up to pressure of {approx}2 GPa. > Zr(Al{sub 0.5}Co{sub 0.5}){sub 2} nanoparticles exhibit reduced hydrogen absorption as compared to the corresponding bulk compounds. - Abstract: The hydrogen absorption ability of the non-absorbing Al-rich ZrAl{sub 2} compound was examined after reducing its particles-size to the nanometer regime. The hydrogen abstinence of bulk ZrAl{sub 2} has been previously related to its excessive elastic shear stiffening. The particle size of ZrAl{sub 2} was reduced by attrition milling and cryomilling. The minimal average particle size was estimated from powder X-ray diffraction analysis to be in the range of 10-20 nm. The hydrogen absorption of the milled compounds was measured in different hydrogenation systems at hydrogen pressures between {approx}6 MPa and {approx}2 GPa. In all the cases the hydrogen absorption was negligible. In addition, there was a reduction of the hydrogen absorption capacity of nanosized Zr(Al{sub 0.5}Co{sub 0.5}){sub 2} as compared to the corresponding bulk compound at the same conditions. We suggest, in view of our and other results, that no significant improvement of the thermodynamics (unlike the kinetics) of the hydrogen absorption can be achieved via the nanoparticle avenue.

  7. Enhanced thermoelectric properties in p-type Bi{sub 0.4}Sb{sub 1.6}Te{sub 3} alloy by combining incorporation and doping using multi-scale CuAlO{sub 2} particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Song, Zijun; Liu, Yuan; Zhou, Zhenxing; Lu, Xiaofang; Wang, Lianjun [State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai (China); Institute of Functional Materials, Donghua University, Shanghai (China); Zhang, Qihao [State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai (China); University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China); Jiang, Wan [State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai (China); Institute of Functional Materials, Donghua University, Shanghai (China); School of Material Science and Engineering, Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, Jingdezhen (China); Chen, Lidong [State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai (China)

    2017-01-15

    Multi-scale CuAlO{sub 2} particles are introduced into the Bi{sub 0.4}Sb{sub 1.6}Te{sub 3} matrix to synergistically optimize the electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and the lattice thermal conductivity. Cu element originating from fine CuAlO{sub 2} grains diffuses into the Bi{sub 0.4}Sb{sub 1.6}Te{sub 3} matrix and tunes the carrier concentration while the coarse CuAlO{sub 2} particles survive as the second phase within the matrix. The power factor is improved at the whole temperatures range due to the low-energy electron filtering effect on Seebeck coefficient and enhanced electrical transport property by mild Cu doping. Meanwhile, the remaining CuAlO{sub 2} inclusions give rise to more boundaries and newly built interfaces scattering of heat-carrying phonons, resulting in the reduced lattice thermal conductivity. Consequently, the maximum ZT is found to be enhanced by 150% arising from the multi-scale microstructure regulation when the CuAlO{sub 2} content reaches 0.6 vol.%. Not only that, but the ZT curves get flat in the whole temperature range after introducing the multi-scale CuAlO{sub 2} particles, which leads to a remarkable increase in the average ZT. (copyright 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  8. On the thermal stability of ultrafine-grained Al stabilized by in-situ amorphous Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} network

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Balog, Martin, E-mail: martin.balog@savba.sk [Institute of Materials and Machine Mechanics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Racianska 75, 83102 Bratislava (Slovakia); Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 (United States); Hu, Tao [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 (United States); Krizik, Peter [Institute of Materials and Machine Mechanics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Racianska 75, 83102 Bratislava (Slovakia); Castro Riglos, Maria Victoria [Centro Atómico Bariloche, Av. Bustillo 9.500 (8400) Bariloche, Río Negro (Argentina); Saller, Brandon D.; Yang, Hanry; Schoenung, Julie M.; Lavernia, Enrique J. [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 (United States)

    2015-11-11

    Bulk Al materials with average grain sizes of 0.47 and 2.4 µm, were fabricated by quasi-isostatic forging consolidation of two types of Al powders with average particle sizes of 1.3 and 8.9 μm, respectively. By utilizing the native amorphous Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} (am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}) film on the Al powders surfaces, a continuous, ∼7 nm thick, am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} network was formed in situ in the Al specimens. Systematic investigation of the changes to the am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} network embedded in the Al matrix upon heating and annealing up to 600 °C was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). At the same time, the stability of the Al grain structure was studied by transmission Kikuchi diffraction (TKD), electron back-scatter diffraction (EBSD), and TEM. The am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} network remained stable after annealing at 400 °C for 24 h. In-situ TEM studies revealed that at temperatures ≥450 °C, phase transformation of the am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} network to crystalline γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles occurred. After annealing at 600 °C for 24 h the transformation was completed, whereby only nanometric γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles with an average size of 28 nm resided on the high angle grain boundaries of Al. Due to the pinning effect of γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, the Al grain and subgrain structures remained unchanged during annealing up to 600 °C for 24 h. The effect of the am-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}→γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} transformation on the mechanical properties of ultrafine- and fine-grained Al is discussed from the standpoint of the underlying mechanisms.

  9. Short range investigation of sub-micron zirconia particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Caracoche, M C; Martinez, J A [Departamento de Fisica, IFLP, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, CICPBA, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (Argentina); Rivas, P C [IFLP-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (Argentina); Bondioli, F; Cannillo, V [Dipartimento di Ingegniria dei Materiali e dell' Ambiente, Facolta di Ingegneria, Universita di Modena e Reggio Emilia (Italy); Ferrari, A M, E-mail: cristina@fisica.unlp.edu.a [Dipartimento di Scienza a Metodi dell' Ingegneria, Universita di Modena e Reggio Emilia (Italy)

    2009-05-01

    The Perturbed Angular Correlations technique was used to determine the configurations around Zirconium ions and their thermal behavior in non-aggregated sub-micron zirconia spherical particles. Three residues containing- Zr surroundings were determined for the non-crystalline starting particles, which were identified under the assumption of a certain chemical reactions sequence during synthesis. While the one made up mainly by hydroxyl groups was common to both samples, the two involving mainly organic residues were particle size dependent. Upon crystallization, both samples stabilized in the t'- and t- tetragonal forms and the Xc-cubic form but their amounts and temperatures of appearance were different. On heating, the structure of the smaller particles became gradually monoclinic achieving total degradation upon the subsequent cooling to RT.

  10. Sources of sub-micrometre particles near a major international airport

    Science.gov (United States)

    Masiol, Mauro; Harrison, Roy M.; Vu, Tuan V.; Beddows, David C. S.

    2017-10-01

    The international airport of Heathrow is a major source of nitrogen oxides, but its contribution to the levels of sub-micrometre particles is unknown and is the objective of this study. Two sampling campaigns were carried out during warm and cold seasons at a site close to the airfield (1.2 km). Size spectra were largely dominated by ultrafine particles: nucleation particles ( strategies are applied successfully.

  11. Fabrication and luminescence properties of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} microspheres via a microwave solvothermal route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhu Zhenfeng, E-mail: zhuzf@sust.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710021 (China); Liu Dianguang; Liu Hui; Li Guangjun; Du Juan; He Zuoli [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi' an 710021 (China)

    2012-02-15

    Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} green phosphors were synthesized via a microwave solvothermal and thermal decomposition route, and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectra, and decay curves. XRD results indicate that Tb{sup 3+} doped samples are {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} after being calcined at 773 K. SEM results show that the particles of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} are hierarchically nanostructured microspheres assembled from nanosheets. The PL spectra indicate that the {sup 5}D{sub 4}{yields}{sup 7}F{sub 5} (545 nm) electric dipole transition is the most intensive when excited at 235 nm. It is shown that 0.7 mol% of doping concentration of Tb{sup 3+} ions in {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} is optimum. According to Dexter's theory, the critical distance between Tb{sup 3+} ions for energy transfer was determined to be 18.4 A. It is found that the curve followed the single-exponential decay. The excellent chromaticity coordinates of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} phosphors, as defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE), indicate that it is a good candidate for use in light display systems and optoelectronic devices. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} phosphors prepared via a microwave solvothermal route. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The particles were hierarchically nanostructured microspheres packaged by nanosheets. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer {sup 5}D{sub 4}{yields}{sup 7}F{sub 5} electric dipole transition is the most intensive when excited at 235 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer 0.7 mol% of doping concentration of Tb{sup 3+} ions in {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} is optimum. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Critical distance between Tb{sup 3+} ions for energy transfer is 18.4 A.

  12. TS-1 supported highly dispersed sub-5 nm gold nanoparticles toward direct propylene epoxidation using H2 and O2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Naixu; Chen, Yong; Shen, Quanhao; Yang, Bin; Liu, Ming; Wei, Lingfei; Tian, Wei; Zhou, Jiancheng

    2018-05-01

    We report a simple and efficient method for the preparation of highly dispersed Au nanoparticles (< 5 nm) on TS-1 substrate. The synthesis relies on the use of NaBH4 as a reductant for rapid Au atom generation, as well as PVA as a capping agent confining the particle size and dispersion. The samples were characterized by N2 physisorption, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, power X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, CO pulse chemisorption and thermogravimetric analysis. The size of Au particles can be controlled in the range of 3-5 nm. The supported catalyst shows both good activity and selectivity for propylene oxide (PO) generation from direct propylene epoxidation. An optimal performance with PO formation rate of 102.94 gPO h-1 kg-1cat and selectivity of 84.83% is achieved over 2.0 wt% Au/TS-1 catalyst, which is prepared by controlling PVA/Au3+ mass ratio of 1.5/1 and NaBH4/Au3+ mole ratio of 5/1. After 50 h test at 200 °C, no significant decrement of both catalytic activity and PO selectivity can be observed, indicating the excellent thermally stability of the catalyst. Furthermore, a possible reaction mechanism is described on basis of the previous researches and our experimental results.

  13. Deformation Behavior of Sub-micron and Micron Sized Alumina Particles in Compression.

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sarobol, Pylin; Chandross, Michael E.; Carroll, Jay; Mook, William; Boyce, Brad; Kotula, Paul Gabriel; McKenzie, Bonnie Beth; Bufford, Daniel Charles; Hall, Aaron Christopher.

    2014-09-01

    The ability to integrate ceramics with other materials has been limited due to high temperature (>800degC) ceramic processing. Recently, researchers demonstrated a novel process , aerosol deposition (AD), to fabricate ceramic films at room temperature (RT). In this process, sub - micro n sized ceramic particles are accelerated by pressurized gas, impacted on the substrate, plastically deformed, and form a dense film under vacuum. This AD process eliminates high temperature processing thereby enabling new coatings and device integration, in which ceramics can be deposited on metals, plastics, and glass. However, k nowledge in fundamental mechanisms for ceramic particle s to deform and form a dense ceramic film is still needed and is essential in advancing this novel RT technology. In this wo rk, a combination of experimentation and atomistic simulation was used to determine the deformation behavior of sub - micron sized ceramic particle s ; this is the first fundamental step needed to explain coating formation in the AD process . High purity, singl e crystal, alpha alumina particles with nominal size s of 0.3 um and 3.0 um were examined. Particle characterization, using transmission electron microscopy (TEM ), showed that the 0.3 u m particles were relatively defect - free single crystals whereas 3.0 u m p articles were highly defective single crystals or particles contained low angle grain boundaries. Sub - micron sized Al 2 O 3 particles exhibited ductile failure in compression. In situ compression experiments showed 0.3um particles deformed plastically, fractured, and became polycrystalline. Moreover, dislocation activit y was observed within the se particles during compression . These sub - micron sized Al 2 O 3 particles exhibited large accum ulated strain (2 - 3 times those of micron - sized particles) before first fracture. I n agreement with the findings from experimentation , a tomistic simulation s of nano - Al 2 O 3 particles showed dislocation slip and

  14. Monodisperse and core-shell structured SiO{sub 2}-Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ln{sup 3+} (Ln=Eu, Tb, Dy, Sm, Er, Ho, and Tm) spherical particles: A facile synthesis and luminescent properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xu, Zhenhe, E-mail: xuzh056@163.com [College of Applied Chemistry, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 100142 (China); Feng, Bin [China National Aviation Fuel Group Corporation, Planning and Development Department, Beijing 100088 (China); Bian, Shasha; Liu, Tao; Wang, Mingli; Gao, Yu; Sun, Di; Gao, Xin [College of Applied Chemistry, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 100142 (China); Sun, Yaguang, E-mail: yaguangsun@yahoo.com.cn [College of Applied Chemistry, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 100142 (China)

    2012-12-15

    The core-shell structured SiO{sub 2}-Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ln{sup 3+} particles were realized by coating the Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ln{sup 3+} phosphors onto the surface of non-aggregated, monodisperse and spherical SiO{sub 2} particles by the Pechini sol-gel method. The as-synthesized products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), photolumiminescence (PL), and low-voltage cathodoluminescence (CL). The results indicate that the 800 Degree-Sign C annealed sample consists of crystalline Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3} shells and amorphous SiO{sub 2} cores, in spherical shape with a narrow size distribution. The as-obtained particles show strong light emission with different colors corresponding to different Ln{sup 3+} ions under ultraviolet-visible light excitation and low-voltage electron beams excitation, which have potential applications in fluorescent lamps and field emission displays. - Graphical Abstract: Representative SEM and TEM images of the core-shell structured SiO{sub 2}-Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Eu{sup 3+} particles; CIE chromaticity diagram showing the emission colors for SiO{sub 2}-Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ln{sup 3+}; Multicolor emissions of SiO{sub 2}-Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Ln{sup 3+} particles. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The core-shell particles were realized by coating the phosphors onto the surface of SiO{sub 2} particles. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The sample consists of crystalline Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3} shells and amorphous SiO{sub 2} cores. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The particles show different light emission colors corresponding to Ln{sup 3+} ions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer They have potential applications in fluorescent lamps and field emission displays.

  15. Structure, morphology and optical properties of undoped and MN-doped ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} nano-powders prepared by precipitation method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dejene, F.B., E-mail: dejenebf@qwa.ufs.ac.za [Department of Physics, University of the Free State, (Qwa-Qwa campus), Private Bag X-13, Phuthaditjhaba 9866 (South Africa); Onani, M.O. [Chemistry Department, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag x17, Bellville 7535 (South Africa); Koao, L.F.; Wako, A.H.; Motloung, S.V.; Yihunie, M.T. [Department of Physics, University of the Free State, (Qwa-Qwa campus), Private Bag X-13, Phuthaditjhaba 9866 (South Africa)

    2016-01-01

    The undoped and Mn-doped ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} nano-powders were successfully synthesized by precipitation method without using any capping agent. Its structure, morphology, elemental analysis, optical and luminescence properties were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), UV–vis spectroscopy (UV) and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). A typical SEM image of the un-doped ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} nanoparticles exhibit flake like structures that changes to nearly spherical particles with Mn-doping. The XRD of undoped and Mn doped ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} pattern reveals the formation of a product indexed to the hexagonal wurtzite phase of ZnS. The nanopowders have crystallite sizes estimated from XRD measurements were in the range of 10–20 nm. All the samples showed absorption maximum of ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} at 271 nm and high transmittance in UV and visible region, respectively. The undoped ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} nanoparticles show strong room-temperature photoluminescence with four emission bands centering at 338 nm, 384 nm, 448 nm and 705 nm that may originate to the impurity of ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x}, existence of oxide related defects. The calculated bandgap of the nanocrystalline ZnO{sub (1−x)}S{sub x} showed a blue-shift with respect to the Mn-doping. The PL spectra of the Mn-doped samples exhibit a strong orange emission at around 594 nm attributed to the {sup 4}T{sub 1}–{sup 6}A{sub 1} transition of the Mn{sup 2+} ions.

  16. EUV actinic defect inspection and defect printability at the sub-32 nm half pitch

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Huh, Sungmin; Kearney, Patrick; Wurm, Stefan; Goodwin, Frank; Han, Hakseung; Goldberg, Kenneth; Mochi, Iacopp; Gullikson, Eric M.

    2009-08-01

    Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask blanks with embedded phase defects were inspected with a reticle actinic inspection tool (AIT) and the Lasertec M7360. The Lasertec M7360, operated at SEMA TECH's Mask Blank Development Center (MBDC) in Albany, NY, has a sensitivity to multilayer defects down to 40-45 nm, which is not likely sufficient for mask blank development below the 32 nm half-pitch node. Phase defect printability was simulated to calculate the required defect sensitivity for a next generation blank inspection tool to support reticle development for the sub-32 nm half-pitch technology node. Defect mitigation technology is proposed to take advantage of mask blanks with some defects. This technology will reduce the cost of ownership of EUV mask blanks. This paper will also discuss the kind of infrastructure that will be required for the development and mass production stages.

  17. Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} particle distribution in YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-y} grains of melt growth processed YBCO oxides; Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5}-Partikelverteilung in YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-y}-Koernern durch das Melt-Growth-Verfahren verarbeiteter YBCO-Oxide

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Chan-Joong; Park, Soon-Dong [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of). Neutron Science Div.; Park, Hai-Woong [Korea Univ. of Technology and Education, Chungnam (Korea, Republic of). College of Energy, Materials and Chemical Engineering

    2013-02-01

    Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} (Y211) particle distribution within YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-y} (Y123) grains of YBCO samples melt growth (MG) processed was examined. To understand the processing variables on the Y211 distribution, a cooling rate (R{sub C}=1 K/h to R{sub C}=20 K/h) through a peritectic temperature (T{sub p} = 1010 C), a precursor powder size and composition were changed. Two different Y211 distributions (a linear x-like track and planar butterfly-like pattern) were observed, depending on the processing variables. The linear x-like Y211 tracks were observed in the Y123 samples prepared using a stoichiometric Y123 precursor, whereas the planar butterfly-like Y211 patterns were observed in the Y{sub 1.8}Ba{sub 2.4}Cu{sub 3.4}O{sub 7-d} (Y1.8) samples prepared using an Y211-excess composition precursor. The track and planar Y211 patterns were clearer at lower R{sub C} (slower growth rate of Y123 grains) and for the smaller Y211 particles. In contrast, the random Y211 distribution was dominant at the higher R{sub C} and for the larger Y211 particles. The Y211 distribution patterns in the Y123 grains were explained in terms of the interfacial energy difference among growing Y123 fronts. (orig.)

  18. Study of crystallization kinetics and structural relaxation behavior in phase separated Ag{sub 33}Ge{sub 17}Se{sub 50} glassy alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kumar, Praveen, E-mail: prafiziks@gmail.com [Semiconductors Laboratory, Department of Physics, GND University, Amritsar 143005 (India); Nanotechnology Research Centre, DAV Institute of Engineering and Technology, Kabir Nagar, Jalandhar 144008 (India); Yannopoulos, S.N. [Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Chemical Engineering and High Temperature Chemical Processes (FORTH/ICE-HT), P.O. Box 1414, GR-26 504, Rio-Patras (Greece); Sathiaraj, T.S. [Department of Physics, University of Botswana, Gaborone (Botswana); Thangaraj, R., E-mail: rthangaraj@rediffmail.com [Semiconductors Laboratory, Department of Physics, GND University, Amritsar 143005 (India)

    2012-07-16

    We report on the crystallization processes and structure (crystal phases) of Ag{sub 33}Ge{sub 17}Se{sub 50} glassy alloy using differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction techniques, respectively. The devitrification that gives rise to the first exothermic peak results in the crystallization of Ag{sub 2}Se and Ag{sub 8}GeSe{sub 6} phases, while the growth of GeSe{sub 2} accompanied by the transformation of Ag{sub 8}GeSe{sub 6} to Ag{sub 2}Se phase occurs during the second crystallization process. Different theoretical models are used to elucidate various kinetic parameters for the crystallization transformation process in this phase separated system. With annealing below the glass transition temperature, an inverse behavior between the variation of the optical gap and the band tailing parameter is observed for the thermally evaporated films. These results are explained as the mixing of different clusters/species in the amorphous state and/or changes caused by structural relaxation of the glassy network for the thermally evaporated films. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Phase separation in Ag{sub 33}Ge{sub 17}Se{sub 50} glassy alloy bordering two glass forming regions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Transformation of Ag{sub 8}GeSe{sub 6} {yields} Ag{sub 2}Se along with crystallization GeSe{sub 2} phase. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Elucidation of various kinetic parameters for the crystalline transformation. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Structural relaxation in thermally evaporated films by optical spectroscopy.

  19. Alumina nanowire growth by water decomposition and the peritectic reaction of decagonal Al{sub 65}Cu{sub 15}Co{sub 20} quasicrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Téllez-Vázquez, J.O., E-mail: oswald.tellez@gmail.com [Instituto de Investigaciones en Metalurgia y Materiales, UMSNH, Edificio U, Ciudad Universitaria, CP 58060 Morelia Michoacán, México (Mexico); Patiño-Carachure, C., E-mail: cpatino@pampano.unacar.mx [Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Carmen, Campus III, Avenida Central S/N, Esq. Con Fracc. Mundo Maya, C.P. 24115 Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, México (Mexico); Rosas, G., E-mail: grtrejo@yahoo07.com.mx [Instituto de Investigaciones en Metalurgia y Materiales, UMSNH, Edificio U, Ciudad Universitaria, CP 58060 Morelia Michoacán, México (Mexico)

    2016-02-15

    In this paper, the results of the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanowires' growth through a chemical reaction between Al and water vapor at 1050 °C are presented. Our approach is based on two primary considerations. First, at room temperature, the Al{sub 65}Cu{sub 15}Co{sub 20} alloy is affected by the following mechanism: 2Al (s) + 3H{sub 2}O (g) → Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} (s) + H{sub 2} (g). In this reaction, the released hydrogen induces cleavage fracture of the material to form small particles. Second, the Al{sub 65}Cu{sub 15}Co{sub 20} quasicrystalline phase is transformed on heating to liquid + Al (Cu, Co) cubic phase through a peritectic reaction at 1050 °C. The Al-rich liquid then reacts with water vapor, forming Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanowires. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows that the formed nanowires have a hexagonal structure, and infrared analysis further confirms the presence of α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase in the final products. Transmission electron microscopy observations show that nanoparticles are present at the end of nanowires, suggesting the VLS growth mechanism. Elemental analysis by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) indicates that the particles at the tip of the nanowires are mainly formed by Co and Cu alloying elements and small amounts of Al. Electron microscopy observations showed nanowires with diameters ranging from 20 to 70 nm; the average diameter was 37 nm and the nanowire lengths were up to several micrometers. - Highlights: • Hexagonal alumina nanowires are grown at 1050 °C through the VLS process. • Alumina nanowires are obtained by the decomposition of decagonal quasicrystalline phase. • The decagonal phase decomposition follows a peritectic reaction at 1030 °C. • Nanoparticles are obtained by hydrogen embrittlement mechanism. • The nanoparticles catalyze the water decomposition to form wires.

  20. Observation of the strain-driven charge-ordered state in La sub 0 sub . sub 7 sub C a sub 0 sub . sub 3 MnO sub 3 sub - sub d elta thin film with oxygen deficiency

    CERN Document Server

    Prokhorov, V G; Kaminsky, G G; Svetchnikov, V L; Zandbergen, H W; Lee, Y P; Park, J S; Kim, K W

    2003-01-01

    The magnetic and transport properties of La sub 0 sub . sub 7 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 3 MnO sub 3 sub - sub d elta films with an oxygen deficiency (delta approx 0.1) and a La sub 0 sub . sub 9 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 1 MnO sub 3 film with the stoichiometric oxygen content are investigated in a wide temperature range. It is shown that the charge-ordered insulating (COI) state is observed for a La sub 0 sub . sub 7 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 3 MnO sub 2 sub . sub 9 film with thickness d <= 30 nm, which manifests mainly a cubic crystal structure with an anomalously small lattice parameter for this composition. An increase in the film thickness (d approx 60 nm) leads to a structural transition from the lattice-strained cubic to the relaxed rhombohedral phase, is accompanied by a shift of the Curie point (T sub C) to lower temperature and a frustration of the COI state. The magnetic and transport properties of the La sub 0 sub . sub 7 Ca sub 0 sub . sub 3 MnO sub 2 sub . sub 9 film with d approx 60 nm are similar to those exhibi...

  1. TMV Disk Scaffolds for Making sub-30 nm Silver Nanorings.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bayram, Serene; Zahr, Omar; Del Re, Julia; Blum, Amy Szuchmacher

    2018-01-01

    Nanosized bioscaffolds can be utilized to tackle the challenge of size reduction of metallic rings owing to their miniature features as well as their well-known biomineralization capacity. The tobacco mosaic virus coat protein is used as a command surface to grow and assemble silver nanoparticles into sub-30 nm rings. The versatility of TMV allows the formation of both solid silver rings and rings consisting of discrete silver nanoparticles. The pH-dependent coulombic surface map along with the annular geometry of the protein aggregate allow the generation of rings with or without a central nanoparticle. Our silver rings are believed to be the smallest to date, and they can offer a test material for existing theories on metallic nanorings of this heretofore unreached size scale.

  2. Evolution of the nanomorphology of photovoltaic polyfluorene blends: sub-100 nm resolution with x-ray spectromicroscopy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    McNeill, C R [Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0HE (United Kingdom); Watts, B; Swaraj, S; Ade, H [Department of Physics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695 (United States); Thomsen, L; Belcher, W; Dastoor, P C [Centre for Organic Electronics, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308 (Australia)], E-mail: crm51@cam.ac.uk

    2008-10-22

    We investigate the influence of annealing on the morphology of intimately mixed blends of the conjugated polymers poly(9,9'-dioctylfluorene-co-bis-N,N'-(4-butylphenyl)-bis-N, N'-phenyl-1,4-phenylene-diamine) (PFB) and poly(9,9'-dioctylfluorene-co-benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) with scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM). Through the use of a zone plate with theoretical Rayleigh resolution of 30 nm, we are able to resolve sub-100 nm bulk structure in these films. Surprisingly, for unannealed films spin-coated from chloroform we observe features with an average diameter of 85 nm. The high degree of photoluminescence quenching in these as-spun films (>95%) implies that there is significant intermixing within the 85 nm structures, indicating that a hierarchy of phase separation exists even on the length scale of less than 100 nm. With annealing up to 160 deg. C, close to the T{sub g} of the components, there is little change in the feature sizes observed by STXM, although an increase in variation of the composition is observed. With annealing above 160 deg. C the imaged features begin to evolve in size, increasing to 225 nm in extent, alongside large changes in composition with annealing to 200 deg. C. Comparing the evolution of morphology imaged by STXM with the change in photoluminescence quenching with annealing, we propose that phase separation first evolves via the evolution of relatively pure phases on the length scale of a few to tens of nanometres within the larger 85 nm structures. Once the length scale of compositional fluctuations exceeds 85 nm (for anneal temperatures above 160 deg. C) the hierarchy of phase separation is lost and the subsequent morphological evolution is readily imaged by STXM. Applying the results of an exciton diffusion and quenching model, we find good agreement between the size of the domains measured by STXM (above 180 deg. C) and the results of the model for an exciton diffusion length of 15 nm. The growth in

  3. Surface texture of single-crystal silicon oxidized under a thin V{sub 2}O{sub 5} layer

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nikitin, S. E., E-mail: nikitin@mail.ioffe.ru; Verbitskiy, V. N.; Nashchekin, A. V.; Trapeznikova, I. N.; Bobyl, A. V.; Terukova, E. E. [Russian Academy of Sciences, Ioffe Physical–Technical Institute (Russian Federation)

    2017-01-15

    The process of surface texturing of single-crystal silicon oxidized under a V{sub 2}O{sub 5} layer is studied. Intense silicon oxidation at the Si–V{sub 2}O{sub 5} interface begins at a temperature of 903 K which is 200 K below than upon silicon thermal oxidation in an oxygen atmosphere. A silicon dioxide layer 30–50 nm thick with SiO{sub 2} inclusions in silicon depth up to 400 nm is formed at the V{sub 2}O{sub 5}–Si interface. The diffusion coefficient of atomic oxygen through the silicon-dioxide layer at 903 K is determined (D ≥ 2 × 10{sup –15} cm{sup 2} s{sup –1}). A model of low-temperature silicon oxidation, based on atomic oxygen diffusion from V{sub 2}O{sub 5} through the SiO{sub 2} layer to silicon, and SiO{sub x} precipitate formation in silicon is proposed. After removing the V{sub 2}O{sub 5} and silicon-dioxide layers, texture is formed on the silicon surface, which intensely scatters light in the wavelength range of 300–550 nm and is important in the texturing of the front and rear surfaces of solar cells.

  4. Axion-like particle searches with sub-THz photons

    CERN Document Server

    Capparelli, L.; Ferretti, J.; Giazotto, F.; Polosa, A.D.; Spagnolo, P.

    2016-01-01

    We propose a variation, based on very low energy and extremely intense photon sources, on the well established technique of Light-Shining-through-Wall (LSW) experiments for axion-like particle searches. With radiation sources at 30 GHz, we compute that present laboratory exclusion limits on axion-like particles might be improved by at least four orders of magnitude, for masses m_a <~ 0.01~meV. This could motivate research and development programs on dedicated single-photon sub-THz detectors.

  5. Synthesis and characterization of the novel rare earth orthophosphates Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Schildhammer, Daniel; Petschnig, Lucas L.; Fuhrmann, Gerda; Heymann, Gunter; Schottenberger, Herwig; Huppertz, Hubert [Innsbruck Univ. (Austria). Inst. fuer Allgemeine, Anorganische und Theoretische Chemie; Tribus, Martina [Innsbruck Univ. (Austria). Inst. fuer Mineralogie und Petrographie

    2016-02-01

    The new mixed rare earth (RE) orthophosphates Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} were synthesized by a classical solid state reaction in an electrical furnace at 1200 C. As starting materials, the corresponding rare earth oxides and diammonium hydrogen phosphate were used. The powder diffraction analyses revealed that the new compounds Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} crystallize in a zircon-type structure being isostructural with the rare earth orthophosphate YPO{sub 4}. Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} crystallize in the tetragonal space group I4{sub 1}/amd (no. 141) with four formula units in the unit cell. The structural parameters based on Rietveld refinements are a = 687.27(2), c = 601.50(2) pm, V = 0.28412(1) nm{sup 3}, R{sub p} = 0.0143, and R{sub wp} = 0.0186 (all data) for Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and a = 684.61(2), c = 599.31(2) pm, V = 0.28089(2) nm{sup 3}, R{sub p} = 0.0242, and R{sub wp} = 0.0313 (all data) for Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4}. Furthermore, the structure of Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data: a = 687.78(5), c = 601.85(4) pm, V = 0.28470(5) nm{sup 3}, R{sub 1} = 0.0165, and wR{sub 2} = 0.0385 (all data). In both compounds, the rare earth metal ions are eightfold coordinated by oxygen atoms, forming two unique interlocking tetrahedra with two individual RE-O distances. The tetrahedral phosphate groups [PO{sub 4}]{sup 3-} are slightly distorted in both compounds. The individual rare earth ions share a common position (Wyckoff site 4a). The presence of two rare earth ions in the structures of the new orthophosphates Y{sub 0.5}Er{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} and Y{sub 0.5}Yb{sub 0.5}PO{sub 4} was additionally confirmed by single-crystal EDX spectroscopy revealing a ratio of 1:1.

  6. Synthesis and characterization of Ni{sub 0.7}Zn{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrospinel: performance evaluation for methyl and ethyl esterification; Sintese e caracterizacao do ferroespinelio Ni{sub 0,7}Zn{sub 0,3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}: avaliacao de desempenho na esterificacao metilica e etilica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mapossa, A.B., E-mail: mapossabenjox@gmail.com [Curso de Quimica, Dept. de Ciencias Naturais, Universidade Pedagogica de Mocambique, Delegacao de Manica, Chimoio (Mozambique); Dantas, J.; Diniz, V.C.S.; Costa, A.C.F.M. [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), PB (Brazil). Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Ciencia e Engenharia de Materiais; Silva, M.R. [Universidade Federal de Itajuba (UNIFEI), MG (Brazil). Dept. de Fisica; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais

    2017-04-15

    Ni{sub 0.7}Zn{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrospinel was synthesized by combustion and its catalytic performance in methyl and ethyl esterification of the soybean oil was investigated. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Rietveld refinement analysis, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, textural analysis, scanning electron microscopy, density by picnometry, particle size analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, magnetic measurements, and catalytic tests. The synthesis was efficient resulting in a ferrospinel with single phase Ni{sub 0.7}Zn{sub 0.3}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} with crystallite size of 20 nm, high surface area (86 m{sup 2}/g) and saturation magnetization of 18 emu/g. The ferrospinel had promising catalytic activity in both reaction conditions studied, being more active in the conversion of soybean oil to biodiesel in methyl esterification with an average conversion of 93.9±2.8%. (author)

  7. Effect of 6 MeV electrons on luminescence properties of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} nanophosphors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sunitha, D.V., E-mail: sunithaprasad8@gmail.com [School of Physics, Reva University, Yelahanka, Bangalore 560064 (India); Nagabhushana, H. [Prof. C.N.R. Rao Centre for Advanced Materials Research, Tumkur University, Tumkur 572103 (India); Hareesh, K., E-mail: appi.2907@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007 (India); Bhoraskar, V.N. [Department of Physics, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007 (India); Dhole, S.D., E-mail: sanjay@physics.unipune.ac.in [Department of Physics, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007 (India)

    2016-09-15

    Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} nanophosphors were synthesized by solution combustion technique and irradiated with 6 MeV energetic electrons in the fluence range 2–10×10{sup 13} e{sup −}cm{sup −2}. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns confirm cubic phase of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The crystallite size was estimated using Scherrer method and was found to be in the order of ~39 nm. SEM micrographs revealed the formation of non-uniform spherical shaped particles for higher electron fluence. Photoluminescence spectra (PL) of pristine and Tb{sup 3+} doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} were recorded in the fluence range 2–10×10{sup 13} e{sup −}cm{sup −2}. PL intensity was found to increase up to 4×10{sup 13} e{sup −}cm{sup −2} and thereafter it decreases with further increase in electron fluence. This may be attributed to lattice disorder produced by dense electronic excitation under electron irradiation. The characteristic emission peaks of Tb{sup 3+} were observed at ~ 484–490 nm ({sup 5}D{sub 4}→{sup 7}F{sub 6}), 548 nm ({sup 5}D{sub 4}→{sup 7}F{sub 5}) and 587 nm ({sup 5}D{sub 4}→{sup 7}F{sub 4}) at excited wavelength 397 nm. Two TL glow peaks were recorded in both pristine and electron irradiated samples indicate that two types of traps were created. The color co-ordinate values (x, y) were located in the green region of the CIE diagram suggests that electron irradiated Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Tb{sup 3+} phosphor could be used in white LEDs.

  8. Photoluminescence properties of the Eu-doped alpha-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} microspheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Dianguang, E-mail: dianguang12@gmail.com [State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, West Youyi Rd., No. 127, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710072 (China); Science and Technology on Thermostructure Composite Materials Laboratory, Northwestern Polytechnical University, West Youyi Rd., No. 127, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710072 (China); Zhu, Zhenfeng [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021 (China)

    2014-01-15

    Highlights: • Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Eu{sup 3+} phosphors were prepared via a microwave solvothermal route. • The particles were hierarchically nanostructured microspheres packaged by nanosheets. • The powders presented excellent orange–red emission when excited at 393 nm. • Critical concentration and distance of Eu{sup 3+} in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} is 0.007, 18 Å, respectively. -- Abstract: Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Eu{sup 3+} samples were synthesized via microwave solvothermal method and thermal decomposition of Eu{sup 3+} doped precursors. The sample characterizations were carried out by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. XRD results indicated that Eu{sup 3+} doped samples were most of α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase after being calcined at 1473 K. SEM results showed that the obtained α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} based powders via microwave solvothermal method were microspheres with an average diameter about 1.6 μm. PL spectra showed that upon excitation at 393 nm, the orange–red emission bands at the wavelength longer than 560 nm were from {sup 5}D{sub 0} → {sup 7}F{sub J} (J = 1, 2) transitions. The asymmetry ratio of ({sup 5}D{sub 0} → {sup 7}F{sub 2})/({sup 5}D{sub 0} → {sup 7}F{sub 1}) intensity is about 1 and this value suggests that Eu{sup 3+} ions occupy the same ratio of symmetry and asymmetry sites. It is shown that the 0.7 mol% of doping concentration of Eu{sup 3+} ions in α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Eu{sup 3+} is optimum. According to Dexter’s theory, the critical distance between Eu{sup 3+} ions for energy transfer was determined to be 18 Å.

  9. Sub-micrometer refractory carbonaceous particles in the polar stratosphere

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schütze, Katharina; Wilson, James Charles; Weinbruch, Stephan; Benker, Nathalie; Ebert, Martin; Günther, Gebhard; Weigel, Ralf; Borrmann, Stephan

    2017-10-01

    Eleven particle samples collected in the polar stratosphere during SOLVE (SAGE III Ozone loss and validation experiment) from January until March 2000 were characterized in detail by high-resolution transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM/SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. A total of 4202 particles (TEM = 3872; SEM = 330) were analyzed from these samples, which were collected mostly inside the polar vortex in the altitude range between 17.3 and 19.9 km. Particles that were volatile in the microscope beams contained ammonium sulfates and hydrogen sulfates and dominated the samples. Some particles with diameters ranging from 20 to 830 nm were refractory in the electron beams. Carbonaceous particles containing additional elements to C and O comprised from 72 to 100 % of the refractory particles. The rest were internal mixtures of these materials with sulfates. The median number mixing ratio of the refractory particles, expressed in units of particles per milligram of air, was 1.1 (mg air)-1 and varied between 0.65 and 2.3 (mg air)-1. Most of the refractory carbonaceous particles are completely amorphous, a few of the particles are partly ordered with a graphene sheet separation distance of 0.37 ± 0.06 nm (mean value ± standard deviation). Carbon and oxygen are the only detected major elements with an atomic O/C ratio of 0.11 ± 0.07. Minor elements observed include Si, S, Fe, Cr and Ni with the following atomic ratios relative to C: Si/C: 0.010 ± 0.011; S/C: 0.0007 ± 0.0015; Fe/C: 0.0052 ± 0.0074; Cr/C: 0.0012 ± 0.0017; Ni/C: 0.0006 ± 0.0011 (all mean values ± standard deviation).High-resolution element distribution images reveal that the minor elements are distributed within the carbonaceous matrix; i.e., heterogeneous inclusions are not observed. No difference in size, nanostructure and elemental composition was found between particles collected inside and outside the polar vortex. Based on chemistry and nanostructure

  10. Interactions between sub-10-nm iron and cerium oxide nanoparticles and 3T3 fibroblasts: the role of the coating and aggregation state

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Safi, M; Sarrouj, H; Berret, J-F; Sandre, O; Mignet, N

    2010-01-01

    Recent nanotoxicity studies revealed that the physico-chemical characteristics of engineered nanomaterials play an important role in the interactions with living cells. Here, we report on the toxicity and uptake of cerium and iron oxide sub-10-nm nanoparticles by NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Coating strategies include low-molecular weight ligands (citric acid) and polymers (poly(acrylic acid), M W = 2000 g mol -1 ). Electrostatically adsorbed on the surfaces, the organic moieties provide a negatively charged coating in physiological conditions. We find that most particles were biocompatible, as exposed cells remained 100% viable relative to controls. Only the bare and the citrate-coated nanoceria exhibit a slight decrease in mitochondrial activity at very high cerium concentrations (>1 g l -1 ). We also observe that the citrate-coated particles are internalized/adsorbed by the cells in large amounts, typically 250 pg/cell after 24 h incubation for iron oxide. In contrast, the polymer-coated particles are taken up at much lower rates (<30 pg/cell). The strong uptake shown by the citrated particles is related to the destabilization of the dispersions in the cell culture medium and their sedimentation down to the cell membranes. In conclusion, we show that the uptake of nanomaterials by living cells depends on the coating of the particles and on its ability to preserve the colloidal nature of the dispersions.

  11. Interactions between sub-10-nm iron and cerium oxide nanoparticles and 3T3 fibroblasts: the role of the coating and aggregation state

    Science.gov (United States)

    Safi, M.; Sarrouj, H.; Sandre, O.; Mignet, N.; Berret, J.-F.

    2010-04-01

    Recent nanotoxicity studies revealed that the physico-chemical characteristics of engineered nanomaterials play an important role in the interactions with living cells. Here, we report on the toxicity and uptake of cerium and iron oxide sub-10-nm nanoparticles by NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Coating strategies include low-molecular weight ligands (citric acid) and polymers (poly(acrylic acid), MW = 2000 g mol - 1). Electrostatically adsorbed on the surfaces, the organic moieties provide a negatively charged coating in physiological conditions. We find that most particles were biocompatible, as exposed cells remained 100% viable relative to controls. Only the bare and the citrate-coated nanoceria exhibit a slight decrease in mitochondrial activity at very high cerium concentrations (>1 g l - 1). We also observe that the citrate-coated particles are internalized/adsorbed by the cells in large amounts, typically 250 pg/cell after 24 h incubation for iron oxide. In contrast, the polymer-coated particles are taken up at much lower rates (<30 pg/cell). The strong uptake shown by the citrated particles is related to the destabilization of the dispersions in the cell culture medium and their sedimentation down to the cell membranes. In conclusion, we show that the uptake of nanomaterials by living cells depends on the coating of the particles and on its ability to preserve the colloidal nature of the dispersions.

  12. Microstructure, transformation behavior and mechanical properties of a (Ti{sub 50}Ni{sub 38}Cu{sub 12}){sub 93}Nb{sub 7} alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jiang, Daqiang, E-mail: daqiang.jiang@uwa.edu.au [School of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia (Australia); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Beijing (China); Liu, Yinong [School of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia (Australia); Liu, Weilong; Song, Lixie; Jiang, Xiaohua [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Beijing (China); Yang, Hong [School of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia (Australia); Cui, Lishan [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Beijing (China)

    2015-03-11

    A (Ti{sub 50}Ni{sub 38}Cu{sub 12}){sub 93}Nb{sub 7} alloy is fabricated by arc melting, forging and drawing. The microstructure, transformation behavior and mechanical properties were investigated by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and tensile test machine. SEM observation showed that the as cast alloy is composed of TiNiCu and Nb-rich phases. After drawing, the alloy showed single step transformations during heating and cooling within the whole annealing temperature range from 400 °C to 800 °C. With the increase of the annealing temperature, both the transformation temperatures and the damping capacity increased first and then decreased. The ultimate strength of the alloy after annealing at 400 °C is over 1500 MPa and the maximum elongation of the alloy after annealing at 800 °C is more than 20%.

  13. Size dependences of crystal structure and magnetic properties of DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tajiri, T., E-mail: tajiri@fukuoka-u.ac.jp [Faculty of Science, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka 814-0180 (Japan); Terashita, N.; Hamamoto, K.; Deguchi, H.; Mito, M. [Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Kitakyushu 804-8550 (Japan); Morimoto, Y.; Konishi, K. [Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, Matsuyama 790-8577 (Japan); Kohno, A. [Faculty of Science, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka 814-0180 (Japan)

    2013-11-15

    We synthesized DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles with particle sizes of about 7.5–15.3 nm in the pores of mesoporous silica and investigated their crystal structure and magnetic properties. As the particle size decreased, the lattice constants of the DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles deviated from those of the bulk crystal, and the Jahn–Teller distortion in the nanoparticle systems decreased. In addition, the estimated lattice strain increased with decreasing particle size. The DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles showed superparamagnetic behavior. The blocking temperature and the coercive field increased with decreasing particle size, and this behavior was contrary to the usual magnetic size effects. It is deduced that these unique size dependences of the magnetic properties for the DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles were derived from the changes in lattice constants and lattice strain. The anisotropic lattice deformation in the crystal structure of the nanoparticles induces an enhancement of the magnetic anisotropy, which results in the increase in blocking temperature and coercive field with decreasing particle size. - Highlights: • We successfully synthesized DyMnO{sub 3} nanoparticles with particle size of 7.5–15.3 nm. • Lattice strain increases with decreasing particle size. • Lattice constants exhibit anisotropic change with decreasing particle size. • Distortion of crystal structure leads to enhancement of magnetic anisotropy constant. • Blocking temperature and coercive field increases with decreasing particle size.

  14. Rapid fabrication of self-ordered porous alumina with 10-/sub-10-nm-scale nanostructures by selenic acid anodizing

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nishinaga, Osamu; Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Natsui, Shungo; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2013-01-01

    Anodic porous alumina has been widely investigated and used as a nanostructure template in various nanoapplications. The porous structure consists of numerous hexagonal cells perpendicular to the aluminum substrate and each cell has several tens or hundreds of nanoscale pores at its center. Because the nanomorphology of anodic porous alumina is limited by the electrolyte during anodizing, the discovery of additional electrolytes would expand the applicability of porous alumina. In this study, we report a new self-ordered nanoporous alumina formed by selenic acid (H2SeO4) anodizing. By optimizing the anodizing conditions, anodic alumina possessing 10-nm-scale pores was rapidly assembled (within 1 h) during selenic acid anodizing without any special electrochemical equipment. Novel sub-10-nm-scale spacing can also be achieved by selenic acid anodizing and metal sputter deposition. Our new nanoporous alumina can be used as a nanotemplate for various nanostructures in 10-/sub-10-nm-scale manufacturing. PMID:24067318

  15. Photoluminescence and electrical impedance measurements on alloyed Zn{sub (1-x)}Cd{sub x}S nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saravanan, R. Sakthi Sudar, E-mail: rsakthiss@yahoo.com [Physics Research Centre, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoil 629 002 (India); Mahadevan, C.K. [Physics Research Centre, S.T. Hindu College, Nagercoil 629 002 (India)

    2012-11-15

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High yield synthesis of Zn-Cd-S QDs. is achieved by solvothermal-microwave heating. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The samples are highly crystalline and the average particle size is {approx}3.5 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High luminescent quantum yield and narrow emission spectral widths are obtained. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High conduction activation energy is observed in the case of Zn-Cd coexisting QDs. - Abstract: A series of wurtzite Zn{sub (1-x)}Cd{sub x}S (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1) nanocrystals with average crystallite size of 1.98, 1.82, 1.80, 2.04 and 2.51 nm, respectively, have been synthesized by simple solvothermal microwave heating method. The photoluminescence yield is found to be higher in the case of alloyed nanocrystals (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) as compared to ZnS (x = 0) and CdS (x = 1). The optical emission is tuned from blue (440 nm) to orange (575 nm) with the increase of Cd composition in Zn{sub (1-x)}Cd{sub x}S nanocrystal. The impedance analysis for Zn{sub (1-x)}Cd{sub x}S nanocrystals has been measured as a function of frequency and temperature. The real and imaginary part of complex impedance plots exhibit semicircle behavior in the complex plane. The AC activation energies of ZnS, Zn{sub 0.75}Cd{sub 0.25}S, Zn{sub 0.5}Cd{sub 0.5}S, Zn{sub 0.25}Cd{sub 0.75}S and CdS nanocrystals were calculated from electrical conductivity analysis and are found to be 0.188, 0.378, 0.456, 0.284 and 0.255 eV, respectively. The conductivity of the alloyed nanocrystals was higher than that of ZnS and CdS.

  16. The effect of Ag layer thickness on the properties of WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} multilayer films as anode in organic light emitting diodes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zadsar, Mehdi, E-mail: mehdi_zadsar@yahoo.com [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Fallah, Hamid Reza; Mahmoodzadeh, Morteza Haji [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Quantum Optics Research Group, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Tabatabaei, Seyed Vahid [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2012-04-15

    Transparent conductive WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} (WAM) multilayer electrodes were fabricated by thermal evaporation and the effects of Ag layer thickness on the optoelectronic and structural properties of multilayer electrode as anode in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) were investigated using different analytical methods. For Ag layers with thickness varying between 5 and 20 nm, the best WAM performances, high optical transmittance (81.7%, at around 550 nm), and low electrical sheet resistance (9.75 {Omega}/cm{sup 2}) were obtained for 15 nm thickness. Also, the WAM structure with 15 nm of Ag layer thickness has a very smooth surface with an RMS roughness of 0.37 nm, which is suitable for use as transparent conductive anode in OLEDs. The current density-voltage-luminance (J-V-L) characteristics measurement shows that the current density of WAM/PEDOT:PSS/TPD/Alq{sub 3}/LiF/Al organic diode increases with the increase in thickness of Ag and WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} device exhibits a higher luminance intensity at lower voltage than ITO/PEDOT:PSS/TPD/Alq{sub 3}/LiF/Al control device. Furthermore, this device shows the highest power efficiency (0.31 lm/W) and current efficiency (1.2 cd/A) at the current density of 20 mA/cm{sup 2}, which is improved 58% and 41% compared with those of the ITO-based device, respectively. The lifetime of the WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} device was measured to be 50 h at an initial luminance of 50 cd/m{sup 2}, which is five times longer than 10 h for ITO-based device. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Investigation of Ag thickness effect on the properties of WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} films. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Electrical conductivity of multilayer films increases with increasing Ag thickness. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Optical transmittance increases by Ag thickness and at 15 nm, reaches 81.7%. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Power efficiency of WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} based devices is higher than that of

  17. Influence of Ca amount on the synthesis of Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B particles in reduction–diffusion process

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Chun-Qiang [Powder and Ceramics Division, Korea Institute of Materials Science, Changwon, Gyeongnam 642-831 (Korea, Republic of); Department of Advanced Materials, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 305-350 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Dongsoo, E-mail: dskim@kims.re.kr [Powder and Ceramics Division, Korea Institute of Materials Science, Changwon, Gyeongnam 642-831 (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Chuljin [Powder and Ceramics Division, Korea Institute of Materials Science, Changwon, Gyeongnam 642-831 (Korea, Republic of)

    2014-04-15

    Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B alloy particles with high coercivity of more than 10 kOe were successfully synthesized by adjusting the amount of Calcium (Ca) in reduction–diffusion (R–D) process. Calcium oxide (CaO) and unreacted Ca remained after R–D process in particles prepared by heat treatment in Hydrogen (H{sub 2}) atmosphere at previous step. In the ratio of 0.4 of Ca to powders (Ca/powders, wt%), residual Ca was not detected from X-ray diffraction pattern. On the other hand, Ca appeared above the ratio of 1.0 and below the ratio of 0.2, amount of Ca was not enough to reduce Nd oxide. Moreover, excess Ca affected magnetic property of final products obtained after washing, because residual Ca gave rise to evolution of H{sub 2} gas during disintegration with water and it led to the formation of Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}BH{sub x} (x=1–5). Finally, Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B magnetic particles were synthesized after washing in de-ionized water with a mean size of 2 μm and their maximum energy product showed 15.5 MGOe. - Highlights: • We employ spray drying for the preparation of precursor powders. • Critical amount of Ca for the reduction of Nd-oxides is revealed quantitatively. • The formation of Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}BH{sub x} (x=1–5) occur in the Ca to powder ratio above 2.0. • Final products after washing and drying show more than 10 MGOe of (BH){sub max}. • We propose the optimum amount of Ca in reduction–diffusion process.

  18. Composition and sources of particles in Mannerheimintie during exceedance days of PM{sub 10} limit value in 2010; Hiukkasten koostumus ja laehteet Mannerheimintiellae PM{sub 10}-raja-arvon ylityspaeivinae 2010

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kupiainen, K.; Niemi, J.; Ritola, R.; Stojiljkovic, A.

    2012-02-15

    The purpose of the work was to determine sources of respirable particles (PM{sub 10}) in the center of Helsinki, at the measurement station in Mannerheimintie traffic site, in 2010 during the days when the daily average concentration of PM{sub 10} exceeded 50 mug/m3. By the end of the year (2010) the number of this kind of days was 24. The allowed number of exceedance days per year is 35, so the limit value was not exceeded in 2010. Similar work has been carried out in 2008 and 2009 and this report also summarizes results from all three years. HSY is responsible for monitoring the air quality in the Helsinki metropolitan area. The PM{sub 10} monitoring data in combination with electron microscopy based single particle compositional analysis and receptor modeling was used to evaluate dust source contributions on the exceedance days at HSY's air quality monitoring station in Mannerheimintie. According to the study the most significant source of PM{sub 10} particles in Mannerheimintie in 2010 was the dust sources related to traction control (winter-sanding and -salting of streets, pavement wear by studded tyres). Results from 2008 and 2009 show similar tendency. Also dust from construction sites contribute to airborne particle concentrations, timing of this source varies depending on the year. In 2010 particles from construction sites contributed to the exceedances that took place in late spring and early summer. Long-range transboundary air pollution also caused high concentrations of particles and contributed to some of the exceedances in 2008-2010. In late July and early August in 2010, long-range transboundary particles from the forest fires in Russia caused high particle concentrations in Helsinki metropolitan area and elsewhere in Southern Finland. Based on the results, the most significant means to reduce the airborne concentrations and to prevent the exceedance of the limit value are those that aim at mitigating street dust. In Helsinki, the means to

  19. Hygroscopic behaviour of aerosol particles emitted from biomass fired grate boilers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rissler, Jenny; Swietlicki, Erik [Lund Univ. (Sweden). Div. of Nuclear Physics; Pagels, Joakim; Wierzbicka, Aneta; Bohgard, Mats [Lund Univ. (Sweden). Div. of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology; Strand, Michael; Lillieblad, Lena; Sanati, Mehri [Vaexjoe Univ. (Sweden). Bioenergy Technology

    2005-02-01

    This study focuses on the hygroscopic properties of sub-micrometer aerosol particles emitted from two small-scale district heating combustion plants (1 and 1.5 MW) burning two types of biomass fuels (moist forest residue and pellets). The hygroscopic particle diameter growth was measured when taken from a dehydrated to a humidified state for particle diameters between 30-350 nm (dry size) using a Hygroscopic Tandem Differential Mobility Analyzer (H-TDMA). Particles of a certain dry size all showed similar hygroscopic growth and the average diameter growth at RH=90% for 110/100 nm particles was 1.68 in the 1 MW boiler, and 1.52 in the 1.5 MW boiler. These growth factors are considerably higher in comparison to other combustion aerosol particles such as diesel exhaust, and are the result of the efficient combustion and the high concentration of alkali species in the fuel. The observed water uptake could be explained using the Zdanovskii-Stokes-Robinson (ZSR) mixing rule and a chemical composition of only potassium salts, taken from an Ion Chromatography analysis of filter sample (KCl, K{sub 2}SO{sub 4}, and K{sub 2}CO{sub 3}). Agglomerated particles collapsed and became more spherical when initially exposed to a moderately high relative humidity. When diluting with hot particle-free air, the fractal-like structures remained intact until humidified in the HTDMA. A method is presented to by which to estimate the fractal dimension of the agglomerated combustion aerosol and correct the measured mobility diameter hygroscopic growth to the more useful property volume growth. The fractal dimension was estimated to be {approx}2.5.

  20. Quantum and dielectric confinements of sub-10 nm gold in dichroic phosphate glass nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Singh, Shiv Prakash; Nath, Mithun; Karmakar, Basudeb

    2014-01-01

    Blue shifts of the surface plasmon resonance band of sub-10 nm gold in dichroic phosphate glass nanocomposites are observed with increase in both size of gold nanoparticles and refractive index of the medium, which are contrary to the common trends. These phenomena have been enlightened with the electrodynamics theories (Mie and Drude models) and happened due to quantum and dielectric confinements. Nanocomposites have been synthesized by in-situ thermochemical reduction technique in reducing phosphate glass matrices. The plasmon bands are characterized by the UV–vis spectrophotometer, and shape and size of the nanogold by the transmission electron microscopy. All the nanocomposites are dichroic in nature. - Highlights: • We fabricated Au 0 embedded nanocomposites in P 2 O 5 –SnO–ZnO glass matrix. • Au 0 synthesized by a single step in-situ thermochemical reduction technique. • We have reported the blue shifts of the SPR band of sub-10 nm Au 0 NPs. • The optical property has been explained on the basis of electrodynamics theories

  1. Removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions using Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, ZnO, and CuO nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mahdavi, Shahriar, E-mail: smahdaviha@yahoo.com; Jalali, Mohsen, E-mail: jalali@basu.ac.ir [College of Agriculture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Department of Soil Science (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Afkhami, Abbas, E-mail: afkhami@basu.ac.ir [College of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University, Department of Analytical Chemistry (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2012-08-15

    This study investigated the removal of Cd{sup 2+}, Cu{sup 2+}, Ni{sup 2+}, and Pb{sup 2+} from aqueous solutions with novel nanoparticle sorbents (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, ZnO, and CuO) using a range of experimental approaches, including, pH, competing ions, sorbent masses, contact time, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The images showed that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, ZnO, and CuO particles had mean diameters of about 50 nm (spheroid), 25 nm (rod shape), and 75 nm (spheroid), respectively. Tests were performed under batch conditions to determine the adsorption rate and uptake at equilibrium from single and multiple component solutions. The maximum uptake values (sum of four metals) in multiple component solutions were 360.6, 114.5, and 73.0 mg g{sup -1}, for ZnO, CuO, and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, respectively. Based on the average metal removal by the three nanoparticles, the following order was determined for single component solutions: Cd{sup 2+} > Pb{sup 2+} > Cu{sup 2+} > Ni{sup 2+}, while the following order was determined in multiple component solutions: Pb{sup 2+} > Cu{sup 2+} > Cd{sup 2+} > Ni{sup 2+}. Sorption equilibrium isotherms could be described using the Freundlich model in some cases, whereas other isotherms did not follow this model. Furthermore, a pseudo-second order kinetic model was found to correctly describe the experimental data for all nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray before and after metal sorption, and soil solution saturation indices showed that the main mechanism of sorption for Cd{sup 2+} and Pb{sup 2+} was adsorption, whereas both Cu{sup 2+} and Ni{sup 2+} sorption were due to adsorption and precipitation. These nanoparticles have potential for use as efficient sorbents for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions and ZnO nanoparticles were identified as the most promising sorbent due to their high metal uptake.

  2. Effect of surfactant amount on the morphology and magnetic properties of monodisperse ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Haitao, E-mail: zht95711lunwen@163.com; Liu, Ruiping; Zhang, Qiang; Wang, Qiao

    2016-03-15

    Graphical abstract: Polyol process to monodisperse ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. - Highlights: • An one-step, facile and inexpensive synthetic route to monodisperse ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles is described. • The sodium citrate stabilized ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with a diameter in the 5–8 nm size range can be easily dispersed in water. • The synthesis is very robust in terms of variations of experimental parameters. • ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles present ferrimagnetic behavior at room temperature with a small hysteresis. - Abstract: The spinel ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites with sodium citrate as a surfactant were fabricated by polyol process. The effect of surfactant amount on the structure, morphology and magnetic properties of ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites were investigated by X-ray diffraction(XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry (TG–DSC) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), respectively. The results indicate that the structure of ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites is a pure cubic spinel structure with a particle size of 5–8 nm. The dispersion of the synthesized ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} is enhanced when the mole ratio of Fe(acac){sub 3} to sodium citrate decreases. The synthesized particles present ferrimagnetic behavior with a small hysteresis at room temperature. The increase of surfactant amount conversely leads to the decrease in the saturation magnetization value (Ms) especially when the mole ratio of Fe(acac){sub 3} to sodium citrate decreases to 8:3. Its Ms value is drastically reduced to 18.97 emu/g.

  3. The preparation, surface structure, zeta potential, surface charge density and photocatalytic activity of TiO{sub 2} nanostructures of different shapes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Grover, Inderpreet Singh; Singh, Satnam; Pal, Bonamali, E-mail: bpal@thapar.edu

    2013-09-01

    Titania based nanocatalysts such as sodium titanates of different morphology having superior surface properties are getting wide importance in photocatalysis research. Despite having sodium (Na) contents and its high temperature synthesis (that generally deteriorate the photoreactivity), these Na-titanates often exhibit better photoactivity than P25-TiO{sub 2} catalyst. Hence, this work demonstrated the influence of crystal structure, BET surface area, surface charge, zeta potential (ζ) and metal loading on the photocatalytic activity of as-prepared sodium titanate nanotube (TNT) and titania nanorod (TNR). Straw like hollow orthorhombic-TNT (Na{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 5}·H{sub 2}O) particles (W = 9–12 nm and L = 82–115 nm) and rice like pure anatase-TNR particles (W = 8–13 nm and L = 81–134 nm) are obtained by the hydrothermal treatment of P25-TiO{sub 2} with NaOH, which in fact, altered the net surface charge of TNT and TNR particles. The observed ζ = −2.82 (P25-TiO{sub 2}), −13.5 (TNT) and −22.5 mV (TNR) are significantly altered by the Ag and Cu deposition. It has been found here that TNT displayed best photocatalytic activity for the imidacloprid insecticide (C{sub 9}H{sub 10}ClN{sub 5}O{sub 2}) degradation to CO{sub 2} formation under UV irradiation because of its largest surface area 176 m{sup 2} g{sup −1} among the catalysts studied.

  4. Syngas production from CO{sub 2}-reforming of CH{sub 4} over sol-gel synthesized Ni-Co/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-MgOZrO{sub 2} nanocatalyst: effect of ZrO{sub 2} precursor on catalyst properties and performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sajjadi, Seyed Mehdi; Haghighi, Mohammad; Rahmani, Farhad, E-mail: haghighi@sut.ac.ir [Reactor and Catalysis Research Center, Sahand University of Technology, Tabriz (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2015-05-15

    Ni-Co/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-MgO-ZrO{sub 2} nanocatalyst with utilization of two different zirconia precursors, namely, zirconyl nitrate hydrate (ZNH) and zirconyl nitrate solution (ZNS), was synthesized via the sol-gel method. The physiochemical properties of nanocatalysts were characterized by XRD, FESEM, EDX, BET and FTIR analyses and employed for syngas production from CO{sub 2}-reforming of CH{sub 4}. XRD patterns, exhibiting proper crystalline structure and homogeneous dispersion of active phase for the nanocatalyst ZNS precursor employed (NCAMZ-ZNS). FESEM and BET results of NCAMZ-ZNS presented more uniform morphology and smaller particle size and consequently higher surface areas. In addition, average particle size of NCAMZ-ZNS was 15.7 nm, which is close to the critical size for Ni-Co catalysts to avoid carbon formation. Moreover, FESEM analysis indicated both prepared samples were nanoscale. EDX analysis confirmed the existence of various elements used and also supported the statements made in the XRD and FESEM analyses regarding dispersion. Based on the excellent physiochemical properties, NCAMZ-ZNS exhibited the best reactant conversion across all of the evaluated temperatures, e.g. CH{sub 4} and CO{sub 2} conversions were 97.2 and 99% at 850 °C, respectively. Furthermore, NCAMZZNS demonstrated a stable yield with H{sub 2}/CO close to unit value during the 1440 min stability test. (author)

  5. Tribological performance of sub-100-nm femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures on titanium

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bonse, J., E-mail: joern.bonse@bam.de [BAM Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung, Unter den Eichen 87, D-12205 Berlin (Germany); Höhm, S. [Max-Born-Institut für Nichtlineare Optik und Kurzzeitspektroskopie (MBI), Max-Born-Straße 2A, D-12489 Berlin (Germany); Koter, R.; Hartelt, M.; Spaltmann, D.; Pentzien, S. [BAM Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung, Unter den Eichen 87, D-12205 Berlin (Germany); Rosenfeld, A. [Max-Born-Institut für Nichtlineare Optik und Kurzzeitspektroskopie (MBI), Max-Born-Straße 2A, D-12489 Berlin (Germany); Krüger, J. [BAM Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung, Unter den Eichen 87, D-12205 Berlin (Germany)

    2016-06-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Large areas covered with sub-100 nm LIPSS (HSFL) were manufactured by fs-laser irradiation on titanium surfaces. • Tribological performance of HSFL covered areas was qualified in reciprocal sliding tests in two different lubricating oils. • HSFL on titanium do not endure the tribological tests. • For a beneficial tribological performance, the tribological sample deformation must be smaller than the LIPSS modulation depth. - Abstract: Sub-100-nm laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) were processed on bulk titanium (Ti) surfaces by femtosecond laser pulse irradiation in air (30 fs pulse duration, 790 nm wavelength). The laser peak fluence, the spatial spot overlap, and the number of overscans were optimized in a sample-scanning geometry in order to obtain large surface areas (5 mm × 5 mm) covered homogeneously by the LIPSS. The laser-processed regions were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), white light interference microscopy (WLIM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The friction coefficient of the nanostructured surfaces was tested during 1000 cycles under reciprocal sliding conditions (1 Hz, 1.0 N normal load) against a 10-mm diameter ball of hardened 100Cr6 steel, both in paraffin oil and in engine oil used as lubricants. Subsequently, the corresponding wear tracks were qualified by OM, SEM, and energy dispersive X-ray analyses (EDX). The results of the tribological tests are discussed and compared to that obtained for near wavelength-sized fs-LIPSS, processed under somewhat different irradiation conditions. Some constraints for a beneficial effect of LIPSS on the tribological performance are provided.

  6. Tribological performance of sub-100-nm femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures on titanium

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bonse, J.; Höhm, S.; Koter, R.; Hartelt, M.; Spaltmann, D.; Pentzien, S.; Rosenfeld, A.; Krüger, J.

    2016-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Large areas covered with sub-100 nm LIPSS (HSFL) were manufactured by fs-laser irradiation on titanium surfaces. • Tribological performance of HSFL covered areas was qualified in reciprocal sliding tests in two different lubricating oils. • HSFL on titanium do not endure the tribological tests. • For a beneficial tribological performance, the tribological sample deformation must be smaller than the LIPSS modulation depth. - Abstract: Sub-100-nm laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) were processed on bulk titanium (Ti) surfaces by femtosecond laser pulse irradiation in air (30 fs pulse duration, 790 nm wavelength). The laser peak fluence, the spatial spot overlap, and the number of overscans were optimized in a sample-scanning geometry in order to obtain large surface areas (5 mm × 5 mm) covered homogeneously by the LIPSS. The laser-processed regions were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), white light interference microscopy (WLIM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The friction coefficient of the nanostructured surfaces was tested during 1000 cycles under reciprocal sliding conditions (1 Hz, 1.0 N normal load) against a 10-mm diameter ball of hardened 100Cr6 steel, both in paraffin oil and in engine oil used as lubricants. Subsequently, the corresponding wear tracks were qualified by OM, SEM, and energy dispersive X-ray analyses (EDX). The results of the tribological tests are discussed and compared to that obtained for near wavelength-sized fs-LIPSS, processed under somewhat different irradiation conditions. Some constraints for a beneficial effect of LIPSS on the tribological performance are provided.

  7. The role of dysprosium on the structural and magnetic properties of (Nd{sub 1−x}Dy{sub x}){sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rahimi, Hamed; Ghasemi, Ali, E-mail: ali13912001@yahoo.com; Mozaffarinia, Reza; Tavoosi, Majid

    2017-02-15

    In current work, Nd2Fe14B nanoparticles was synthesized by sol-gel method. Dysprosium powders were added into Nd2Fe14B nanoparticles by mechanical alloying process in order to enhancement of coercivity. The phase analysis, structure, and magnetic properties of annealed (Nd{sub 1−x}Dy{sub x}){sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B nanoparticles with different Dy-content (x=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6) were investigated by employing X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope and vibrating sample magnetometer techniques. The results showed that with an increase in Dy amounts, the coercivity of particles increased from 2.9 kOe to 13.4 kOe and then decreased to 5.6 kOe. By adding an optimum amount of Dy (x=0.4), the coercivity was significantly increased from 2.9 kOe to 13.4 kOe. The average particle size of annealed (Nd{sub 1−x}Dy{sub x}){sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B nanoparticles was below 10 nm. Magnetization reversal studies indicate that the coercivity of milled and annealed (Nd{sub 1−x}Dy{sub x}){sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B nanoparticles is controlled by the nucleation of reversed magnetic domains. The experimental results in the angular dependence of coercivity for (Nd{sub 1−x}Dy{sub x}){sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B permanent magnets showed that the normalized coercivity of the permanent magnets H{sub c}(θ)/H{sub c}(0) increases from 1 to about 1.2–1.5 with increasing θ from 0 to about π/3, for x=0.4–0.6. - Highlights: • Dy was added to Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B nanoparticles to improve the coercivity. • A maximum squareness ratio of 0.99 was obtained. • The average particle size decreased with an increase in Dy-content.

  8. Thermoluminescence study of K{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 3}:Cu nanophosphor for gamma ray dosimetry

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mandlik, Nandkumar [Department of Physics, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007 (India); Department of Physics, Fergusson College, Pune 411004 (India); Sahare, P.D. [Department of Physics and Astrophysics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007 (India); Patil, B.J. [Department of Physics, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007 (India); Department of Physics, Abasaheb Garware College, Pune 411004 (India); Bhoraskar, V.N. [Department of Physics, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007 (India); Dhole, S.D., E-mail: sanjay@physics.unipune.ac.in [Department of Physics, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007 (India)

    2013-11-15

    Nanocrystalline K{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 3}:Cu was synthesized by chemical coprecipitation method and annealed at 700 °C. XRD of this sample shows the cubic structure and the crystallite size ∼20 nm. The same was also confirmed with TEM and shows the formation of nanorods of quite uniform in shape having diameter ∼20 nm and length in the range of 200 nm. The FTIR spectrum exhibits the bands corresponding to sulphate anions around 1015 and 600 cm{sup −1}. These samples were irradiated with gamma radiation for the dose varying from 0.1 Gy to 50 kGy and their TL characteristics have been studied. The glow curves of the pristine samples consists of two peaks one at around 139 °C while another one around 185 °C while the glow curve of samples annealed at 700 °C show a major peak at around 165 °C and other two peaks of low intensity at around 300 °C and 390 °C. The change in glow curve structures around 700 °C is due to the phase transition (from orthorhombic P2{sub 1}2{sub 1}2{sub 1}to cubic P2{sub 1}3 phase). The energy levels (trapping levels) get reorganized due to phase transition after the phase transition temperature (260 °C) and remain the same at higher temperatures (700 °C). TL dose response shows a linear behavior up to 1 kGy and further saturates with increase in the dose. Simple glow curve structure, easy method of synthesis, linear dose response and low fading make the nanocrystalline phosphor a good candidate for radiation dosimetry and especially, for the estimation of high doses of gamma rays where the microcrystalline phosphors generally saturate.

  9. Photodissociation dynamics of the methyl perthiyl radical at 248 and 193 nm using fast-beam photofragment translational spectroscopy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Harrison, Aaron W.; Ryazanov, Mikhail; Sullivan, Erin N.; Neumark, Daniel M., E-mail: dneumark@berkeley.edu [Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA and Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States)

    2016-07-14

    The photodissociation dynamics of the methyl perthiyl radical (CH{sub 3}SS) have been investigated using fast-beam coincidence translational spectroscopy. Methyl perthiyl radicals were produced by photodetachment of the CH{sub 3}SS{sup −} anion followed by photodissociation at 248 nm (5.0 eV) and 193 nm (6.4 eV). Photofragment mass distributions and translational energy distributions were measured at each dissociation wavelength. Experimental results show S atom loss as the dominant (96%) dissociation channel at 248 nm with a near parallel, anisotropic angular distribution and translational energy peaking near the maximal energy available to ground state CH{sub 3}S and S fragments, indicating that the dissociation occurs along a repulsive excited state. At 193 nm, S atom loss remains the major fragmentation channel, although S{sub 2} loss becomes more competitive and constitutes 32% of the fragmentation. The translational energy distributions for both channels are very broad at this wavelength, suggesting the formation of the S{sub 2} and S atom products in several excited electronic states.

  10. Harmonic decomposition of two particle angular correlations in Pb-Pb collisions at {radical}(s{sub NN})=2.76 TeV

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aamodt, K. [Department of Physics and Technology, University of Bergen, Bergen (Norway); Abelev, B. [Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA (United States); Abrahantes Quintana, A. [Centro de Aplicaciones Tecnologicas y Desarrollo Nuclear (CEADEN), Havana (Cuba); Adamova, D. [Nuclear Physics Institute, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Rez u Prahy (Czech Republic); Adare, A.M., E-mail: andrew.adare@yale.edu [Yale University, New Haven, CT (United States); Aggarwal, M.M. [Physics Department, Panjab University, Chandigarh (India); Aglieri Rinella, G. [European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), Geneva (Switzerland); Agocs, A.G. [KFKI Research Institute for Particle and Nuclear Physics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest (Hungary); Agostinelli, A. [Dipartimento di Fisica dell' Universita and Sezione INFN, Bologna (Italy); Aguilar Salazar, S. [Instituto de Fisica, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City (Mexico); Ahammed, Z. [Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, Kolkata (India); Ahmad, N.; Ahmad Masoodi, A. [Department of Physics Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (India); Ahn, S.U. [Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung (Korea, Republic of); Akindinov, A. [Institute for Theoretical and Experimental Physics, Moscow (Russian Federation); Aleksandrov, D. [Russian Research Centre Kurchatov Institute, Moscow (Russian Federation); Alessandro, B. [Sezione INFN, Turin (Italy); Alfaro Molina, R. [Instituto de Fisica, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City (Mexico); and others

    2012-02-28

    Angular correlations between unidentified charged trigger (t) and associated (a) particles are measured by the ALICE experiment in Pb-Pb collisions at {radical}(s{sub NN})=2.76 TeV for transverse momenta 0.25sub T}{sup t,a}<15 GeV/c, where p{sub T}{sup t}>p{sub T}{sup a}. The shapes of the pair correlation distributions are studied in a variety of collision centrality classes between 0 and 50% of the total hadronic cross section for particles in the pseudorapidity interval |{eta}|<1.0. Distributions in relative azimuth {Delta}{phi}{identical_to}{phi}{sup t}-{phi}{sup a} are analyzed for |{Delta}{eta}|{identical_to}|{eta}{sup t}-{eta}{sup a}|>0.8, and are referred to as 'long-range correlations'. Fourier components V{sub n{Delta}}{identical_to} Left-Pointing-Angle-Bracket cos(n{Delta}{phi}) Right-Pointing-Angle-Bracket are extracted from the long-range azimuthal correlation functions. If particle pairs are correlated to one another through their individual correlation to a common symmetry plane, then the pair anisotropy V{sub n{Delta}}(p{sub T}{sup t},p{sub T}{sup a}) is fully described in terms of single-particle anisotropies v{sub n}(p{sub T}) as V{sub n{Delta}}(p{sub T}{sup t},p{sub T}{sup a})=v{sub n}(p{sub T}{sup t})v{sub n}(p{sub T}{sup a}). This expectation is tested for 1 Less-Than-Or-Slanted-Equal-To n Less-Than-Or-Slanted-Equal-To 5 by applying a global fit of all V{sub n{Delta}}(p{sub T}{sup t},p{sub T}{sup a}) to obtain the best values v{sub n}{l_brace}GF{r_brace}(p{sub T}). It is found that for 2 Less-Than-Or-Slanted-Equal-To n Less-Than-Or-Slanted-Equal-To 5, the fit agrees well with data up to p{sub T}{sup a}{approx}3-4 GeV/c, with a trend of increasing deviation as p{sub T}{sup t} and p{sub T}{sup a} are increased or as collisions become more peripheral. This suggests that no pair correlation harmonic can be described over the full 0.25sub T}<15 GeV/c range using a single v{sub n}(p{sub T}) curve; such a description is however

  11. Femosecond dynamics of quasi-particles in YBa sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 7 minus. delta. superconductor films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Han, S.G.; Vardeny, Z.V.; Symko, O.G. (Utah Univ., Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Dept. of Physics); Koren, G. (Technion-Israel Inst. of Tech., Haifa (Israel). Dept. of Physics)

    1991-03-01

    This paper reports on the transient electronic response of YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7{minus}{delta}} epitaxially grown HT{sub c} superconductor thin films in the femtosecond time domain, using transient photoinduced reflectivity ({Delta}R) with 60 fsec time resolution. For temperatures T {gt} T{sub c} only a bolometric signal was observed with {Delta}R {gt} O. For T {lt} T{sub c} {Delta}R {lt} O with a temperature dependent rise time of order 300 fsec followed by a relaxation (of order 3 psec) into a state with {Delta} are explained in terms of quasi-particle (QP) electronic response giving {Delta}R {lt} O. Thus the femtosecond rise time is interpreted as avalanche multiplication of QP across the gap 2{Delta} and the subsequent picosecond relaxation as QP recombination. The QP optical response is explained within the two fluid model.

  12. Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanospheres as anode material for enhanced performance in lithium ion batteries

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sasidharan, Manickam [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Saga University, 1 Honjo-machi, Saga 840-8502 (Japan); Gunawardhana, Nanda [Advanced Research Center, Saga University, 1341 Yoga-machi, Saga 840-0047 (Japan); Yoshio, Masaki, E-mail: yoshio@cc.saga-u.ac.jp [Advanced Research Center, Saga University, 1341 Yoga-machi, Saga 840-0047 (Japan); Nakashima, Kenichi, E-mail: nakashik@cc.saga-u.ac.jp [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Saga University, 1 Honjo-machi, Saga 840-8502 (Japan)

    2012-09-15

    Graphical abstract: Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanosphere constructed electrode delivers high capacity of 172 mAh g{sup −1} after 250 cycles and maintains structural integrity and excellent cycling stability. Highlights: ► Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanospheres synthesis was synthesized by soft-template. ► Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanospheres were investigated as anode material in Li-ion battery. ► Nanostructured electrode delivers high capacity of 172 mAh g{sup −1} after 250 cycles. ► The electrode maintains the structural integrity and excellent cycling stability. ► Nanosized shell domain facilitates fast lithium intercalation/deintercalation. -- Abstract: Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanospheres of average diameter ca. ∼29 nm and hollow cavity size ca. 17 nm were synthesized using polymeric micelles with core–shell–corona architecture under mild conditions. The hollow particles were thoroughly characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal (TG/DTA) and nitrogen adsorption analyses. Thus obtained Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} hollow nanospheres were investigated as anode materials for lithium ion rechargeable batteries for the first time. The nanostructured electrode delivers high capacity of 172 mAh g{sup −1} after 250 cycles of charge/discharge at a rate of 0.5 C. More importantly, the hollow particles based electrodes maintains the structural integrity and excellent cycling stability even after exposing to high current density 6.25 A g{sup −1}. The enhanced electrochemical behavior is ascribed to hollow cavity coupled with nanosized Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} shell domain that facilitates fast lithium intercalation/deintercalation kinetics.

  13. Crystal structure, magnetization, {sup 125}Te NMR, and Seebeck coefficient of Ge{sub 49}Te{sub 50}R{sub 1} (R = La, Pr, Gd, Dy, and Yb)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Levin, E.M., E-mail: levin@iastate.edu [Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering, US Department of Energy Ames Laboratory, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Department of Physics and Astronomy, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Cooling, C. [Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering, US Department of Energy Ames Laboratory, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Bud’ko, S.L. [Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering, US Department of Energy Ames Laboratory, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Department of Physics and Astronomy, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Straszheim, W.E. [Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering, US Department of Energy Ames Laboratory, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Lograsso, T.A. [Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering, US Department of Energy Ames Laboratory, Ames, IA 50011 (United States); Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 (United States)

    2017-05-01

    GeTe, a self-doping semiconductor, is a well-known base compound for thermoelectric and phase-change materials. It is known, that replacement of Ge in Ag{sub 6.5}Sb{sub 6.5}Ge{sub 37}Te{sub 50} (TAGS-85) material by rare earth Dy significantly enhances both the power factor and thermoelectric figure of merit. Here we demonstrate how replacement of Ge in GeTe by rare earths with different atomic size and localized magnetic moments affect XRD patterns, magnetization, {sup 125}Te NMR spectra and spin-lattice relaxation, and the Seebeck coefficient of the alloys with a nominal composition of Ge{sub 49}Te{sub 50}R{sub 1} (R = La, Pr, Gd, Dy, and Yb). SEM, EDS and WDS data show that rare earth atoms in the matrix are present at smaller extent compared to a nominal composition, whereas rare earth also is present in inclusions. Rare earths affect the Seebeck coefficient, which is a result of interplay between the reduction due to higher carrier concentration and enhancement due to magnetic contribution. The effect of replacement of Ge in GeTe by Dy on the Seebeck coefficient is smaller than that observed in Ag{sub 6.5}Sb{sub 6.5}Ge{sub 36} Te{sub 50}Dy{sub 1}. This can be explained by larger amount of rare earth, which can be embedded into the lattice of materials containing [Ag + Sb] atomic pairs and possible effect from these pairs. - Highlights: • The effects of rare earth in Ge{sub 49}Te{sub 50}R{sub 1} (R = La, Pr, Gd, Dy, and Yb) are studied. • Rare earth atoms in the matrix are present at smaller extent compared to a nominal composition. • The effect on the Seebeck coefficient is a result from carrier concentration and magnetic contribution.

  14. Development of UO{sub 2}-Stainless Steel Fuel Plates Containing 30-50 Vol. % Oxide; Fabrication de plaques de combustible en acier inoxydable-UO{sub 2} contenant 30 a 40% d'oxyde (en volume); Razrabotka toplivnykh ehlementov iz nerzhaveyushchej stali i UO{sub 2}, soderzhashchikh 30 - 50 OB.% okisi; Elaboracion de placas de combustible de acero inoxidable UO{sub 2} conteniendo 30 a 40% de oxido (en volumen)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lloyd, H. [Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell (United Kingdom)

    1963-11-15

    This paper describes developments associated with the fabrication of UO{sub 2}-stainless steel plate type fuel elements containing up to 50 vol.% UO{sub 2}. The preparation of high-density spherical UO{sub 2} sintered particles in the 100- to 500-{mu}m size range and the compacting and sintering of cermet plate cores with the particles uniformly distributed in the stainless steel matrix are described together with procedures for hot roll-bonding the fuel plates. Rolling at temperatures up to 1300{sup o}C using total deformations in the 40% to 90% range were studied to establish optimum conditions for the production of high-density cores and to achieve good bonding between the plate components with minimum fragmentation and stringering of the UO{sub 2} particles. The manufacture of large fuel plates utilizing multi-core plates which are bonded together during hot rolling is also described. Data are presented on the mechanical properties of 30, 40 and 50 vol.% UO{sub 2}-stainless steel cermets, prepared as described above, and tested in the as ''rolled'' and annealed condition at various temperatures up to 700{sup o}C, using specimens taken laterally and longitudinally to the direction of rolling. The influence of size and uniformity of distribution of the UO{sub 2} spheres on consistency of mechanical properties are discussed. The strength of bonding between core and cladding for similar cermets in the same temperature range was also assessed. Results are also included of thermal cycling tests between 50 and 800{sup o}C, which was done to study the effects on bond stability and cermet structure after 100, 500 and 1000 cycles. (author) [French] L'auteur expose le processus de fabrication d'elements de combustible UO{sub 2}-Inox en plaques contenant jusqu'a 50% en volume d'UO{sub 2}; il decrit la preparation de particules spheriques de UO{sub 2} frittees de densite elevee (taille dans la gamme de 100 a 500), le pressage et le frittage des plaques de cermet dans

  15. On the feasibility of sub-100 nm rad emittance measurement in plasma accelerators using permanent magnetic quadrupoles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, F.; Wu, Y. P.; Nie, Z.; Guo, B.; Zhang, X. H.; Huang, S.; Zhang, J.; Cheng, Z.; Ma, Y.; Fang, Y.; Zhang, C. J.; Wan, Y.; Xu, X. L.; Hua, J. F.; Pai, C. H.; Lu, W.; Gu, Y. Q.

    2018-01-01

    Low emittance (sub-100 nm rad) measurement of electron beams in plasma accelerators has been a challenging issue for a while. Among various measurement schemes, measurements based on single-shot quad-scan using permanent magnetic quadrupoles (PMQs) has been recently reported with emittance as low as ˜200 nm Weingartner (2012 Phys. Rev. Spec. Top. Accel. Beams 15 111302). However, the accuracy and reliability of this method have not been systematically analyzed. Such analysis is critical for evaluating the potential of sub-100 nm rad emittance measurement using any scheme. In this paper, we analyze the effects of various nonideal physical factors on the accuracy and reliability using the PMQ method. These factors include aberration induced by a high order field, PMQ misalignment and angular fluctuation of incoming beams. Our conclusions are as follows: (i) the aberrations caused by high order fields of PMQs are relatively weak for low emittance measurement as long as the PMQs are properly constructed. A series of PMQs were manufactured and measured at Tsinghua University, and using numerical simulations their high order field effects were found to be negligible . (ii) The largest measurement error of emittance is caused by the angular misalignment between PMQs. For low emittance measurement of ˜100 MeV beams, an angular alignment accuracy of 0.1° is necessary. This requirement can be eased for beams with higher energies. (iii) The transverse position misalignment of PMQs and angular fluctuation of incoming beams only cause a translational and rotational shift of measured signals, respectively, therefore, there is no effect on the measured value of emittance. (iv) The spatial resolution and efficiency of the detection system need to be properly designed to guarantee the accuracy of sub-100 nm rad emittance measurement.

  16. Mild hydrothermal crystal growth of new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30}: Structures, optical and magnetic properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yeon, Jeongho; Smith, Mark D. [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208 (United States); Tapp, Joshua; Möller, Angela [Department of Chemistry and Texas Center for Superconductivity, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204 (United States); Loye, Hans-Conrad zur, E-mail: zurloye@mailbox.sc.edu [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208 (United States)

    2016-04-15

    Two new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} (1) and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} (2), were synthesized through an in situ mild hydrothermal route, and were structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The compounds exhibit complex crystal structures composed of corner- or edge-shared UF{sub 9} and MF{sub 6} (M=Mg, Mn) polyhedra, forming hexagonal channels in the three-dimensional framework, in which ordered or disordered divalent metal and sodium atoms reside. The large hexagonal voids contain the nearly regular M(II)F{sub 6} octahedra and sodium ions, whereas the small hexagonal cavities include M(II) and sodium ions on a mixed-occupied site. Magnetic susceptibility measurements yielded effective magnetic moments of 8.36 and 11.6 µ{sub B} for 1 and 2, respectively, confirming the presence and oxidation states of U(IV) and Mn(II). The large negative Weiss constants indicate the spin gap between a triplet and a singlet state in the U(IV). Magnetization data as a function of applied fields revealed that 2 exhibits paramagnetic behavior due to the nonmagnetic singlet ground state of U(IV) at low temperature. UV–vis diffuse reflectance and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data were also analyzed. - Graphical abstract: Two new quaternary U(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30}, were crystallized via an in situ reduction step of U(VI) to U(IV) under mild hydrothermal conditions. The compounds show complex crystal structures based on the 3-D building block of U{sub 6}F{sub 30}. Magnetic property measurements revealed that the U(IV) exhibits a nonmagnetic singlet ground state at low temperature with a spin gap. - Highlights: • Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} have been synthesized and characterized. • The U(IV) fluorides exhibit complex three-dimensional crystal structures. • The

  17. Formation, cationic site exchange and surface structure of mechanosynthesized EuCrO{sub 3} nanocrystalline particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Widatallah, H M; Al-Harthi, S H; Gismelseed, A M; Al-Rawas, A D [Department of Physics, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 36, 123, Muscat (Oman); Johnson, C; Moore, E A [School of Chemistry and Analytical Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA (United Kingdom); Klencsar, Z [Chemical Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 1025 Budapest (Hungary); Wynter, C I [Nassau Community College, Garden City, NY 11530-6793 (United States); Brown, D E, E-mail: hishammw@squ.edu.om, E-mail: hisham@ictp.it [Department of Physics, Northern Illinois University, De Kalb, IL 60115 (United States)

    2011-07-06

    Nanocrystalline EuCrO{sub 3} particles ({approx}25 nm) have been prepared by pre-milling a 1 : 1 molar mixture of Eu{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} for 60 h followed by sintering at 700 {sup 0}C (12 h). This temperature is {approx}500-600 {sup 0}C lower than those at which the material, in bulk form, is conventionally prepared. Rietveld analysis of the x-ray powder diffraction pattern of the EuCrO{sub 3} nanoparticles favours a structural model involving a slight degree of cationic exchange where {approx}11% of the Eu{sup 3+} and Cr{sup 3+} ions exchange their normal dodecahedral A- and octahedral B-sites, respectively, in the perovskite-related structure. This cationic site exchange, which is unusual in a perovskite structure, has been well supported by the corresponding room-temperature {sup 151}Eu Moessbauer spectrum of the nanoparticles that in addition to displaying a distribution in the principal component of the EFG tensor (V{sub zz}) at the usual A-sites of the {sup 151}Eu nuclei, also revealed the presence of a subcomponent with {approx}11% area fraction and a considerably increased |V{sub zz}| value that was associated with Eu{sup 3+} ions at octahedral B-sites. X-ray photoelectron and Auger electron spectroscopic techniques reveal a complex surface structure where extremely thin layers of un-reacted Eu{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} cover most of the EuCrO{sub 3} nanoparticles' surfaces together with some traces of elemental Cr. The binding energies associated with Eu{sup 3+} 3d{sub 5/2}, Eu{sup 3+} 4d{sub 3/2}, Cr{sup 3+} 2p{sub 3/2} and O{sup 2-} 1s core-level electrons in EuCrO{sub 3} are estimated from the x-ray photoelectron data for the first time.

  18. Holographic recording and characterization of photorefractive Bi{sub 2}TeO{sub 5} crystals at 633 nm wavelength light

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Oliveira, Ivan de, E-mail: ivan@ft.unicamp.br [Grupo de Óptica e Modelagem Numérica (GOMNI)-Faculdade de Tecnologia/UNICAMP, Limeira-SP (Brazil); Carvalho, Jesiel F., E-mail: carvalho@if.ufg.br; Fabris, Zanine V. [Instituto de Física/Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia-GO (Brazil); Frejlich, Jaime, E-mail: frejlich@ifi.unicamp.br [Instituto de Física “Gleb Wataghin”/UNICAMP, Campinas-SP (Brazil)

    2014-04-28

    We report on the holographic recording on photorefractive Bi{sub 2}TeO{sub 5} crystals using λ=633 nm wavelength light. We studied the behavior of this material under the action of this low photonic energy light and found out the presence of a fast and a slow hologram, both of photorefractive nature and exhibiting rather high diffraction efficiencies. The faster and the slower holograms are based on the excitation and diffusion of oppositely charged carriers (likely electrons and holes). Relevant parameters for the photoactive centers responsible for both kind of holograms were characterized using purely holographic techniques. No evidences of non-photosensitive ionic charge carriers being involved in the recording process at room temperature nor self-fixing effects were found.

  19. Monodisperse Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 3-x}O{sub 4} nanospheres: Metal-ion-steered size/composition control mechanism, static magnetic and enhanced microwave absorbing properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jiang, Kedan, E-mail: 17858961652@163.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Liu, Yun, E-mail: liuyun650403@163.com [State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070 (China); Pan, Yefei, E-mail: 3083780256@qq.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Wang, Ru, E-mail: 631081137@qq.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Hu, Panbing, E-mail: 1036855954@qq.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); He, Rujia, E-mail: 634185782@qq.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Zhang, Lingli, E-mail: 786510121@qq.com [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Tong, Guoxiu, E-mail: tonggx@zjnu.cn [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China)

    2017-05-15

    Highlights: • A metal-ion-steered solvothermal method for synthesizing Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 3-x}O{sub 4} nanospheres. • Proposing an in situ-reduction, coordination-precipitation transformation mechanism. • Investigating size- and composition-dependent static magnetic properties. • Investigating size- and composition-dependent microwave absorbing properties. - Abstract: An easy metal-ion-steered solvothermal method was developed for the one-step synthesis of monodisperse, uniform Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 3-x}O{sub 4} polycrystalline nanospheres with tunable sphere diameter (40–400 nm) and composition (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.245) via changing just Ni{sup 2+}/Fe{sup 3+} molar ratio (γ). With g increased from 0:1 to 2:1, sphere diameter gradually decreased and crystal size exhibited an inversed U-shaped change tendency, followed by increased Ni/Fe atom ratio from 0% to 0.0888%. An in situ-reduction, coordination-precipitation transformation mechanism was proposed to interpret the metal-ion-steered growth. Size- and composition-dependent static magnetic and microwave absorbing properties were systematically investigated. Saturation magnetization declines with g in a Boltzmann model due to the changes of crystal size, sphere diameter, and Ni content. The coercivity reaches a maximum at γ = 0.75:1 because of the critical size of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} single domain (25 nm). Studies on microwave absorption reveal that 150–400 nm Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanospheres mainly obey the quarter-wavelength cancellation model with the single-band absorption; 40–135 nm Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 3-x}O{sub 4} nanospheres (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.245) obey the one and three quarter-wavelength cancellation model with the multi-band absorption. 150 nm Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanospheres exhibit the optimal EM wave-absorbing property with an absorbing band of 8.94 GHz and the maximum R{sub L} of −50.11 dB.

  20. A soft chemical route to the synthesis of BiFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles with enhanced magnetization

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hasan, Mehedi, E-mail: mhrizvi@gce.buet.ac.bd [Department of Glass and Ceramic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh (India); Islam, Md. Fakhrul, E-mail: fislam@gce.buet.ac.bd [Department of Glass and Ceramic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh (India); Mahbub, Rubayyat, E-mail: rubayyatm@gce.buet.ac.bd [Department of Glass and Ceramic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh (India); Hossain, Md. Sarowar, E-mail: sakil_phy@yahoo.com [S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Salt Lake City, Kolkata, West Bengal 700098 (India); Hakim, M.A., E-mail: hakim.akm@gmail.com [Department of Glass and Ceramic Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh (India)

    2016-01-15

    Highlights: • Pure BiFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles have been synthesized at relatively low temperature. • Decomposition behavior of BiFeO{sub 3} precursor gel is investigated. • Particle size dependent magnetic properties have been confirmed. • Greatly improved magnetization is observed for BiFeO{sub 3} nanostructure. - Abstract: Utilization of BiFeO{sub 3} (BFO) into modern device applications is restricted by its very low magnetic moments and high leakage current. Enhancement in magnetization is a real challenge for multiferroic BFO in the context of device miniaturization and high density information storage system. In this study a significant improvement in magnetization has been recorded for BFO nanoparticles, exploiting the beneficial effect of size confinement. BFO nanoparticles with different size in the range of 21–68 nm are synthesized via modified Pechini sol–gel approach followed by leaching with acetic acid. X-ray diffraction result confirms pure and well crystallized BFO annealed at temperature lower than 600 °C, compared to more than 800 °C for the traditional solid-state sintering process. A strong size-dependent magnetization which increases with decreasing particle size is confirmed with a value of 1.4 emu/g for 40 nm particles in contrast to 7.5 emu/g for 21 nm particles.

  1. Generation and evolution of nanoscale AlP and Al{sub 13}Fe{sub 4} particles in Al-Fe-P system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Qiao, Huan; Gao, Tong; Zhu, Xiangzhen; Wu, Yuying; Qian, Zhao; Liu, Xiangfa, E-mail: xfliu@sdu.edu.cn

    2015-02-15

    Highlights: • Diffusion and gradual solid reactions between Al and Fe{sub x}P phases in Al-Fe-P alloy were investigated. • Nanoscale AlP clusters are in-situ generated and evolve during the whole process. • This novel Al-Fe-P alloy has an excellent low-temperature refining performance on hypereutectic Al-Si alloy. - Abstract: In this paper, the gradual solid reactions between Al and Fe{sub x}P phases in Al-Fe-P alloy were investigated. The results show that the whole reaction process undergoes four main stages: the diffusion of Al atom, the generation of (Al, Fe, P) intermediate compound, the precipitation of nano AlP and Al{sub 13}Fe{sub 4} clusters and their growth to submicron particles. The microstructure of Fe-P particles evolves from the “egg-type”, the “sponge-type” to the “sesame-cake” structure. AlP and Al{sub 13}Fe{sub 4} nano phases have in-situ generated and evolved during the whole process. The gradual reaction mechanism has been discussed. Furthermore, a novel Al-Fe-P alloy which contains (Al, Fe, P) intermediate compounds and nano AlP particles has been synthesized and its low-temperature refining performance on A390 alloy has also been investigated.

  2. Magnetization reversal and tunable exchange bias in GdCr{sub 1−x}Mn{sub x}O{sub 3} (x=0−0.50)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dash, Bibhuti B.; Ravi, S., E-mail: sravi@iitg.ernet.in

    2017-05-01

    Single phase samples of GdCr{sub 1-x}Mn{sub x}O{sub 3} (x=0−0.50) were prepared and their magnetic properties were studied by measuring temperature and field variations of magnetization. The Neel temperature, T{sub N} is found to decrease from T{sub N}=174 K for x=0 to 91 K for x=0.50. The magnetization reversal persists upto 5 at% of Mn substitution with a magnetic compensation temperature, T{sub comp} of 136 K and 139 K for x=0 and 0.05 respectively. However, spin reorientation induced magnetization reversal emerges for x=0.40 and 0.50 samples around 30 K. Tunable positive and negative exchange bias fields in the range of −1.0 kOe to +1.6 kOe have been observed. The origin of magnetization reversal and exchange bias field is explained in terms of antiparallel alignment of canted ferromagnetic component of Cr{sup 3+} ions and the paramagnetic moments of Gd{sup 3+} and Mn{sup 3+} ions under the influence of negative internal field due to antiferromagnetically ordered Cr{sup 3+} ions. - Highlights: • Magnetization reversal and bipolar switching in Mn substituted GdCrO{sub 3} • Tunable exchange bias field in the range of −1.0 kOe to +1.6 kOe. • Low temperature spin reorientation transition is observed.

  3. Surface morphology analysis of nanostructured (Ba sub x , Sr sub 1 sub - sub x)TiO sub 3 thin films using fractal method

    CERN Document Server

    Hong, K J; Choi, W K; Cho, J C

    2003-01-01

    Based on the fractal theory, this paper uses scanning electron microscopy images to investigate the roughness characteristics of nanostructured (Ba Sr)TiO sub 3 thin films by sol-gel methods. The percentage grain area, surface fractal dimensions and 3D image are evaluated using image analysis methods. The thickness of the (Ba Sr)TiO sub 3 thin films was 260-280 nm. The surface fractal dimensions were increased with strontium doping, and grain area, were decreased with it. The fractal dimension and the grain areas of the (Ba sub 0 sub . sub 7 Sr sub 0 sub . sub 3)TiO sub 3 thin films were 1.81 and 81%. Based on the image analysis, the roughness height of 3D images as 256 levels was about 3 nm and its distribution was about 35-40% for the (Ba sub 0 sub . sub 8 Sr sub 0 sub . sub 2)TiO sub 3 and (Ba sub 0 sub . sub 7 Sr sub 0 sub . sub 3)TiO sub 3 thin films. The roughness height of the BST thin films was distributed from 35% to 40% ranging from 3 nm to 4 nm. By increasing the strontium doping, the roughness hei...

  4. Bounce behavior of freshly nucleated biogenic secondary organic aerosol particles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. Virtanen

    2011-08-01

    Full Text Available The assessment of the climatic impacts and adverse health effects of atmospheric aerosol particles requires detailed information on particle properties. However, very limited information is available on the morphology and phase state of secondary organic aerosol (SOA particles. The physical state of particles greatly affects particulate-phase chemical reactions, and thus the growth rates of newly formed atmospheric aerosol. Thus verifying the physical phase state of SOA particles gives new and important insight into their formation, subsequent growth, and consequently potential atmospheric impacts. According to our recent study, biogenic SOA particles produced in laboratory chambers from the oxidation of real plant emissions as well as in ambient boreal forest atmospheres can exist in a solid phase in size range >30 nm. In this paper, we extend previously published results to diameters in the range of 17–30 nm. The physical phase of the particles is studied by investigating particle bounce properties utilizing electrical low pressure impactor (ELPI. We also investigate the effect of estimates of particle density on the interpretation of our bounce observations. According to the results presented in this paper, particle bounce clearly decreases with decreasing particle size in sub 30 nm size range. The comparison measurements by ammonium sulphate and investigation of the particle impaction velocities strongly suggest that the decreasing bounce is caused by the differences in composition and phase of large (diameters greater than 30 nm and smaller (diameters between 17 and 30 nm particles.

  5. Sub-micrometer refractory carbonaceous particles in the polar stratosphere

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    K. Schütze

    2017-10-01

    Full Text Available Eleven particle samples collected in the polar stratosphere during SOLVE (SAGE III Ozone loss and validation experiment from January until March 2000 were characterized in detail by high-resolution transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM/SEM combined with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. A total of 4202 particles (TEM  =  3872; SEM  =  330 were analyzed from these samples, which were collected mostly inside the polar vortex in the altitude range between 17.3 and 19.9 km. Particles that were volatile in the microscope beams contained ammonium sulfates and hydrogen sulfates and dominated the samples. Some particles with diameters ranging from 20 to 830 nm were refractory in the electron beams. Carbonaceous particles containing additional elements to C and O comprised from 72 to 100 % of the refractory particles. The rest were internal mixtures of these materials with sulfates. The median number mixing ratio of the refractory particles, expressed in units of particles per milligram of air, was 1.1 (mg air−1 and varied between 0.65 and 2.3 (mg air−1. Most of the refractory carbonaceous particles are completely amorphous, a few of the particles are partly ordered with a graphene sheet separation distance of 0.37 ± 0.06 nm (mean value ± standard deviation. Carbon and oxygen are the only detected major elements with an atomic O∕C ratio of 0.11 ± 0.07. Minor elements observed include Si, S, Fe, Cr and Ni with the following atomic ratios relative to C: Si∕C: 0.010 ± 0.011; S∕C: 0.0007 ± 0.0015; Fe∕C: 0.0052 ± 0.0074; Cr∕C: 0.0012 ± 0.0017; Ni∕C: 0.0006 ± 0.0011 (all mean values ± standard deviation.High-resolution element distribution images reveal that the minor elements are distributed within the carbonaceous matrix; i.e., heterogeneous inclusions are not observed. No difference in size, nanostructure and elemental composition was found between

  6. One-pot hydrothermal synthesis and characterization of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles and its application as magnetically recoverable catalyst in oxidation of alcohols by periodic acid

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Paul, Bappi; Purkayastha, Debraj Dhar; Dhar, Siddhartha Sankar, E-mail: ssd_iitg@hotmail.com

    2016-09-15

    A novel and facile approach for one-pot synthesis of spinel cobalt ferrite (CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) nanoparticles (NPs) is presented here. The synthesis involves homogeneous chemical precipitation followed by hydrothermal heating, using tributylamine (TBA) as a hydroxylating agent. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 was used as surfactant. As-synthesized CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} NPs were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N{sub 2} adsorption-desorption isotherm (BET) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). TEM image showed formation of spherical particles of sizes 2–30 nm. These NPs were used as magnetically recoverable catalyst in oxidation of alcohols to their corresponding aldehydes by periodic acid. This oxidative procedure is found to be highly efficient affording products in very high yield and selectivity. The easy magnetic separation of the catalyst and efficient reusability are key features of this methodology. - Highlights: • Hydrothermal synthesis of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} NPs with (C{sub 4}H{sub 9}){sub 3}N as hydroxylating agent. • The TEM images showed the particles to be spherical in shape with sizes 2–30 nm. • CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} was used as recyclable catalyst for oxidation of alcohols by periodic acid.

  7. Fluoride adsorption from aqueous solution by magnetic core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@alginate-La particles fabricated via electro-coextrusion

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Yahui [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan (China); Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan (China); Lin, Xiaoyan, E-mail: lxy20100205@163.com [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan (China); Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan (China); Zhou, Quisheng [A State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640 (China); Luo, Xuegang [Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Mianyang 621010, Sichuan (China)

    2016-12-15

    Graphical abstract: The magnetic core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Alg-La particles were fabricated successfully by a simple method of electro-coextrusion, and employed as an adsorbent for separation of fluoride from aqueous solution. - Highlights: • Magnetic core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Alg-La particles were prepared by electro-coextrusion. • The maximum adsorption capacity for fluoride at 298.15 K was 45.230 mg/g. • The adsorbent has a good saturation magnetization value. • The adsorbent has a great potential in removing the fluoride. - Abstract: The magnetic core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Alg-La particles were fabricated successfully by a simple method of electro-coextrusion, and employed as an adsorbent for separation of fluoride from aqueous solution. Main factors affecting the removal of fluoride, including pH, adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, temperature and contact time were investigated. The adsorption isotherm and adsorption kinetics were studied to understand the adsorption process in detail. The experimental data were fitted well by the non-linear Freundlich isotherm and linear pseudo-second-order model, the maximum fluoride adsorption capacity was 45.230 mg/g at pH 4, 298.15 K. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that the fluoride adsorption process was feasible and spontaneous. The presence of other anions like Cl{sup −}, SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}, HCO{sub 3}{sup −} and PO{sub 4}{sup 3−} had almost no effect on the fluoride adsorption. The adsorbent can be easily separated from the solution by a magnet. The magnetic core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Alg-La particles before and after fluoride adsorption were studied by SEM, FTIR, EDX and XPS, which indicated that the adsorption mechanism may be related to electrostatic attraction and Lewis acid-base interaction.

  8. TEMPO functionalized C{sub 60} fullerene deposited on gold surface for catalytic oxidation of selected alcohols

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Piotrowski, Piotr; Pawłowska, Joanna [University of Warsaw, Department of Chemistry (Poland); Sadło, Jarosław Grzegorz [Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology (Poland); Bilewicz, Renata; Kaim, Andrzej, E-mail: akaim@chem.uw.edu.pl [University of Warsaw, Department of Chemistry (Poland)

    2017-05-15

    C{sub 60}TEMPO{sub 10} catalytic system linked to a microspherical gold support through a covalent S-Au bond was developed. The C{sub 60}TEMPO{sub 10}@Au composite catalyst had a particle size of 0.5–0.8 μm and was covered with the fullerenes derivative of 2.3 nm diameter bearing ten nitroxyl groups; the organic film showed up to 50 nm thickness. The catalytic composite allowed for the oxidation under mild conditions of various primary and secondary alcohols to the corresponding aldehyde and ketone analogues with efficiencies as high as 79–98%, thus giving values typical for homogeneous catalysis, while retaining at the same time all the advantages of heterogeneous catalysis, e.g., easy separation by filtration from the reaction mixture. The catalytic activity of the resulting system was studied by means of high pressure liquid chromatography. A redox mechanism was proposed for the process. In the catalytic cycle of the oxidation process, the TEMPO moiety was continuously regenerated in situ with an applied primary oxidant, for example, O{sub 2}/Fe{sup 3+} system. The new intermediate composite components and the final catalyst were characterized by various spectroscopic methods and thermogravimetry.

  9. Facile hydrothermal synthesis of ultrasmall W{sub 18}O{sub 49} nanoparticles and studies of their photocatalytic activity towards degradation of methylene blue

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bhuyan, Bishal; Paul, Bappi [Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Silchar, Silchar, 788010, Assam (India); Dhar, Siddhartha Sankar, E-mail: ssd_iitg@hotmail.com [Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Silchar, Silchar, 788010, Assam (India); Vadivel, Sethumathavan [Department of Chemistry, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, 641004 (India)

    2017-02-15

    Uniformly dispersed ultrasmall tungsten oxide nanoparticles (W{sub 18}O{sub 49}) of sizes around 5–7 nm were synthesized using tungsten hexachloride as tungsten precursor and octadecylamine (ODA) as surfactant and as well as reducing agent. The as-synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized thoroughly by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and N{sub 2} adsorption desorption isotherm (BET). From the XRD patterns, formation of monoclinic primitive phase of W{sub 18}O{sub 49} was observed while TEM images showed well dispersed particles of sizes 5–7 nm. The surface area of the W{sub 18}O{sub 49} NPs was found to be 27.17 m{sup 2} g{sup −1}. These ultrasmall W{sub 18}O{sub 49} NPs have been studied as photocatalysts for the first time in the degradation of methylene blue (MB). The photocatalytic activity was evaluated in oxidative degradation of MB with H{sub 2}O{sub 2} under solar irradiation. The particles exhibited pronounced activity in degradation of MB as well as efficient recyclability. The small band gap energy of W{sub 18}O{sub 49} NPs and their large surface area helps in the production of higher electron (e{sup −}) and hole (h{sup +}) pairs which in a way also prevents the e{sup −} and h{sup +} pairs from recombination within the nanoparticles. This greatly improves and enhances the photocatalytic activity of our synthesized nanoparticles. - Highlights: • Ultrasmall W{sub 18}O{sub 49} NPs were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. • Octadecylamine was used as both capping and reducing agent. • The XRD patterns revealed formation of monoclinic primitive phase of W{sub 18}O{sub 49}. • The TEM images showed that the material were well dispersed with sizes from 5 to 7 nm. • The synthesized NPs exhibited pronounced photocatalytic activity towards MB degradation.

  10. MnBi particles with high energy density made by spark erosion

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nguyen, Phi-Khanh, E-mail: phi@ucsd.edu; Jin, Sungho [Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States); Center for Magnetic Recording Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States); Berkowitz, Ami E. [Physics Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States); Center for Magnetic Recording Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States)

    2014-05-07

    We report on the properties of low-temperature phase (LTP)-MnBi particles produced by the rapid-quenching technique of spark-erosion. The as-prepared powder consists of amorphous, crystalline, and superparamagnetic particles, mostly as porous aggregates. The major fraction of the powder consists of 20–30 nm particles. A short anneal crystallizes the amorphous particles producing a high moment, >90% of theoretical M{sub S}, albeit with H{sub C} of a few kOe. If lightly milled, the agglomerates are broken up to yield H{sub C} of 1 T. These findings are supported by the x-ray diffraction pattern showing broadened peaks of the predominant LTP-MnBi phase. The combination of spark erosion, milling, and annealing has produced randomly oriented particles with (BH){sub MAX} ∼ 3.0 MGOe. The particles are expected to show record energy product when aligned along their crystallographic easy axes.

  11. Fluidized bed combustion of single coal char particles at high CO{sub 2} concentration

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Scala, F.; Chirone, R. [CNR, Naples (Italy)

    2010-12-15

    Combustion of single coal char particles was studied at 850{sup o}C in a lab-scale fluidized bed at high CO{sub 2} concentration, typical of oxyfiring conditions. The burning rate of the particles was followed as a function of time by continuously measuring the outlet CO and O{sub 2} concentrations. Some preliminary evaluations on the significance of homogeneous CO oxidation in the reactor and of carbon gasification by CO{sub 2} in the char were also carried out. Results showed that the carbon burning rate increases with oxygen concentration and char particle size. The particle temperature is approximately equal to that of the bed up to an oxygen concentration of 2%, but it is considerably higher for larger oxygen concentrations. Both CO{sub 2} gasification of char and homogeneous CO oxidation are not negligible. The gasification reaction rate is slow and it is likely to be controlled by intrinsic kinetics. During purely gasification conditions the extent of carbon loss due to particle attrition by abrasion (estimated from the carbon mass balance) appears to be much more important than under combustion conditions.

  12. Three-dimensional vortex pinning by nano-precipitates in a Sm-doped YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-x} coated conductor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Z [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States); Feldmann, D M [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States); Song, X [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States); Kim, S I [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States); Gurevich, A [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States); Reeves, J L [SuperPower Incorporated, 450 Duane Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12304 (United States); Xie, Y Y [SuperPower Incorporated, 450 Duane Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12304 (United States); Selvamanickam, V [SuperPower Incorporated, 450 Duane Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12304 (United States); Larbalestier, D C [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706 (United States)

    2007-09-15

    We report on the thickness and angular dependence of the critical current density J{sub c}(H,{theta}), the irreversibility field H{sup irr}, and the bulk pinning force F{sub p}(H) of a metal-organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) grown YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-x} (YBCO) coated conductor, which contains {approx}17 vol% of {approx}10 nm sized (Y,Sm){sub 2}O{sub 3} precipitates with an average spacing of {approx}10-15 nm. Some surface porosity and amorphous second-phase particles on the scale of {approx}0.5-1 {mu}m appear to reduce the current-carrying cross-section, which controls the magnitude of J{sub c} but not the vortex pinning. We observed an enhanced H{sup irr}{approx}9 T at 77 K along the c-axis which, like the shape of J{sub c}(H) and F{sub p}(H), was independent of thickness as the sample was milled down to {approx}0.16 {mu}m. Angular-dependent measurements of J{sub c} showed the usual excess vortex pinning along the c-axis and along the ab-plane, but with a background that could only be fitted with an unusually small anisotropy parameter of 3, which, like the high H{sup irr} and the thickness-independent shape of F{sub p}(H), we ascribe to strong vortex pinning centre interactions. Together, these measurements show very different behaviour from most pulsed-laser-deposited films, which exhibit strong thickness-dependent properties. We ascribe the present different results to the dense array of small, insulating precipitates, which act as strong pinning centres and produce strong three-dimensional (3D) vortex pinning, because their separation of 10-15 nm is always much smaller than the film thickness.

  13. Analysis of (Ba,Ca,Sr){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8}:Eu{sup 2+}, Mn{sup 2+} phosphors for application in solid state lighting

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Han, J.K. [University of California, San Diego, Materials Science and Engineering Program, La Jolla, CA 92093 (United States); Piqutte, A.; Hannah, M.E. [OSRAM SYLVANIA Central Research, 71 Cherry Hill Drive Beverly, MA 01915 (United States); Hirata, G.A. [Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnolgía, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Apdo, Ensenada MX CP 22860 (Mexico); Talbot, J.B. [University of California, San Diego, Materials Science and Engineering Program, La Jolla, CA 92093 (United States); University of California, San Diego, Department of Nanoengineering, La Jolla, CA 92093 (United States); Mishra, K.C. [OSRAM SYLVANIA Central Research, 71 Cherry Hill Drive Beverly, MA 01915 (United States); McKittrick, J., E-mail: jmckittrick@ucsd.edu [University of California, San Diego, Materials Science and Engineering Program, La Jolla, CA 92093 (United States); University of California, San Diego, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, La Jolla, CA 92093 (United States)

    2014-04-15

    The luminescence properties of Eu{sup 2+} and Mn{sup 2+} co-activated (Ba,Ca,Sr){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} phosphors prepared by combustion synthesis were studied. Eu{sup 2+}-activated (Ba,Ca,Sr){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} has a broad blue emission band centered at 450–485 nm and Eu{sup 2+}–Mn{sup 2+}-activated (Ba,Ca,Sr){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} exhibits a red emission around 620–703 nm, depending on the relative concentrations of Ba, Ca and Sr. The particle size of Eu{sup 2+} and Mn{sup 2+} co-activated (Ba,Ca){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} ranges from 300 nm to 1 μm depending on the metal ion and are agglomerated due to post-synthesis, high temperature annealing. The green emission of Ba{sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} originates from secondary phases (Ba{sub 2}SiO{sub 4} and BaMgSiO{sub 4}) confirmed by emission spectra and X-ray diffraction patterns. The secondary phases of Ba{sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} are removed by the addition of Sr. The quantum efficiencies range from 45% to 70% under 400 nm excitation and the lifetime of red emission of Ba{sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8} decreases significantly with increasing temperature, which is 54% at 400 K of that at 80 K compared to that of blue emission (90% at 400 K of that at 80 K). -- highlights: • (Ba,Ca,Sr){sub 3}MgSi{sub 2}O{sub 8}:Eu{sup 2+}, Mn{sup 2+} phosphors were prepared by a combustion synthesis method. • The emission spectra consist of broad blue-emission band and red-emission band. • The quantum efficiencies range between 45% and 70%, depending on the relative concentrations of Ba, Ca and Sr. • The secondary phases were eliminated by additions of Sr. • Lifetime of the red-emission decreases with increasing temperature, suggesting that these phosphors are not useful for solid state lighting applications.

  14. Graphene supported Li{sub 2}SiO{sub 3}/Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} nanocomposites with improved electrochemical performance as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Qiufen, E-mail: grp2009wqf@163.com; Yang, Shuai; Miao, Juan, E-mail: miaojuan@hpu.edu.cn; Lu, Mengwei; Wen, Tao; Sun, Jiufang

    2017-05-01

    Highlights: • We synthesized Graphene supported Li{sub 2}SiO{sub 3}@Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12}. • The discharge capacity is 399.2 mAh g{sup −1} at the current density of 150 mA g{sup −1} after 200 cycles. • The charge rate capacities retain 89.1% at the current density from 150 mA g{sup −1} to 750 mA g{sup −1}. • The recovery rates of the charge capacities are 91.0% when returned the current density of 150 mA g{sup −1}. - Abstract: Graphene supported Li{sub 2}SiO{sub 3}@Li{sub 4}Ti{sub 5}O{sub 12} (GE@LSO/LTO) nanocomposites have been synthesized via a hydrothermal route and following calcination. LSO/LTO nanospheres are adhered to the graphene nanosheets with the size of 50–100 nm, in which both LSO and LTO particles are attached together. When tested as the anode for lithium ion batteries, the initial discharge and charge capacities of GE@LSO/LTO are 720.6 mAh g{sup −1} and 463.4 mAh g{sup −1} at the current density of 150 mA g{sup −1}. After 200 cycles, the discharge and charge capacities can be remained of 399.2 mAh g{sup −1} and 398.9 mAh g{sup −1}, respectively. Moreover, the charge rate capacities of GE@LSO/LTO composites retain 89.1% at the range of current density from 150 mA g{sup −1} to 750 mA g{sup −1}. And its recovery rates are 91.0% when the current density back to 150 mA g{sup −1}. In addition, the reversible capacity and cycle stability of GE@LSO/LTO are better than that of LTO and LSO/LTO. The reasons can be attributed to the synergistic effect between GE and LSO/LTO as well as the features of GE supports.

  15. Effectiveness of the Top-Down Nanotechnology in the Production of Ultrafine Cement (~220 nm

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Byung-Wan Jo

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available The present investigation is dealing with the communition of the cement particle to the ultrafine level (~220 nm utilizing the bead milling process, which is considered as a top-down nanotechnology. During the grinding of the cement particle, the effect of various parameters such as grinding time (1–6 h and grinding agent (methanol and ethanol on the production of the ultrafine cement has also been investigated. Performance of newly produced ultrafine cement is elucidated by the chemical composition, particle size distribution, and SEM and XRD analyses. Based on the particle size distribution of the newly produced ultrafine cement, it was assessed that the size of the cement particle decreases efficiently with increase in grinding time. Additionally, it is optimized that the bead milling process is able to produce 90% of the cement particle <350 nm and 50% of the cement particle < 220 nm, respectively, after 6.3 h milling without affecting the chemical phases. Production of the ultrafine cement utilizing this method will promote the construction industries towards the development of smart and sustainable construction materials.

  16. Probing the ground state and zero-field cooled exchange bias by magnetoresistance measurement in Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 41}Sn{sub 9} ribbon

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Jiyun [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Mining & Technology, Xuzhou 221116 (China); Tu, Ruikang [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); School of Materials Science and Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215000 (China); Fang, Xiaoting [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Gu, Quanchao [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); School of Materials Science and Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215000 (China); Zhou, Yanying [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Cui, Rongjing [Department of Chemistry, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Han, Zhida, E-mail: han@cslg.edu.cn [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Zhang, Lei; Fang, Yong [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Qian, Bin, E-mail: njqb@cslg.edu.cn [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China); Zhang, Chengliang [School of Science, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122 (China); Jiang, Xuefan [Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Department of Physics, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu 215500 (China)

    2017-03-15

    Recently, a new type of exchange bias (EB) after zero-field cooling has attracted considerable interest mainly in bulk magnetic competing systems. Here, we use a detailed magnetotransport investigation to probe the ground state and zero-field cooled EB (ZEB) in Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 41}Sn{sub 9} ribbon. Both ZEB and field cooled EB were detected in magnetoresistance results consistent with magnetic measurement. A pure spin-glass ground state is proposed based on parabolic shape of low-field magnetoresistance combined with AC magnetization, memory effect. The appearance of ZEB is attributed to the field-induced nucleation and growth of ferromagnetic domains in the spin glass matrix forming unidirectional anisotropy at the interface. - Highlights: • Magnetoresistance was first used to probe the ground state and ZEB in Ni-Mn-based alloys. • A pure spin-glass ground state is proposed in Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 41}Sn{sub 9} ribbon. • Field-induced nucleation and growth of ferromagnetic domains in SG results in ZEB.

  17. Characterization of γ- Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanopowders synthesized by Co-precipitation method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jbara, Ahmed S., E-mail: ahmedsbhe@yahoo.com [Center for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Physics Department, Science College, Al-Muthanna University, Samawah - 66001 (Iraq); Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Othaman, Zulkafli [Center for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Ati, Ali A. [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Saeed, M.A., E-mail: moalsd@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai - 81310, Johor Bahru (Malaysia); Division of Science and Technology, University of Education, Township, Lahore - 54770 (Pakistan)

    2017-02-15

    Co-precipitation technique has been used to synthesize gamma-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} (γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}) nanopowders under annealing temperature effect. The crystalline phase and purity for the prepared powder were characterized by different spectroscopy techniques. XRD analysis confirms the gamma phase of alumina nanopowders with particle diameter ranging from 6 to 24 nm, which confirms the quantum dots formation, which is also supported by the BET measurement. The surface area of the prepared nanopowders is in the range of 109–367 m{sup 2}/g. Morphology analysis indicates that γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanopowders are consisted of grains almost spherical in shape. Some agglomeration of nanoparticles occurs, which become more regular hexagonal shaped with the increasing annealing temperature. The small nanoparticles size and the high surface area from a simple procedure for preparing γ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} may make it more suitable for use as an adsorbent for malachite green. - Highlights: • Co-precipitation technique is used to synthesize gamma- Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanopowders. • Pure gamma- Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase was obtained having maximum nanoparticle size is 24 nm. • The quantum dots were formed inside powder. • High surface area of nanopowders at the low annealing temperature. • Increasing annealing temperature causes the hexagonal agglomeration shape.

  18. Study on the use of TiO{sub 2} passivation layer to reduce recombination losses in dye sensitized solar cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Eskander bin Samsudin, Adel; Mohamed, Norani Muti; Nayan, Nafarizal; Ali, Riyaz Ahmad Mohamed; Shariffuddin, Sharifah Amira Amir; Omar, Salwa [Electrical and Electronics Department, 31750, Tronoh, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (Malaysia); Fundamental and Applied Sciences Department, 31750, Tronoh, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (Malaysia); Electronic Engineering Department, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Faculty, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) (Malaysia)

    2012-09-26

    A lot of research on various aspects of dye solar cells (DSC) has been carried out in order to improve efficiency. This paper analyzes the utilization of TiO{sub 2} passivation layers of different thicknesses by improving the electron transport properties. Four different thicknesses of passivation layers namely 10, 20, 50 and 100 nm were deposited onto the working electrode using r.f sputtering. The electrodes were assembled into TiO{sub 2} based DSC with active area of 1 cm{sup 2}. The solar performance was investigated using 100 mW/cm{sup 2} of AM 1.5 simulated sunlight from solar simulator. The kinetics of the solar cells was investigated using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) measurement and the spectral response was measured using Incident Photon to Electron Conversion (IPCE) measurement system. The highest efficiency was found for DSC with 20 nm passivation layer. DSCs with the passivation layer have open circuit voltage, V{sub OC} increased by 57 mV, their current density, J{sub SC} increased by 0.774 mA cm{sup -2} compared to the one without the passivation layer. The quantum efficiency of the 20 nm passivation layer is the highest, peaking at the wavelength of 534 nm, resulting in the highest performance. All DSCs with the passivation layer recorded higher ratio of R{sub BR}/R{sub T} where R{sub T} is the diffusion resistance of the TiO{sub 2} particles in the mesoscopic layer and R{sub BR} is the recombination resistance of the electron to the electrolyte. This implies that the recombination of the electrolyte I{sup -}{sub 3}/3I{sup -} couple at the substrate/electrolyte interface has been effectively reduced resulting in an enhanced efficiency.

  19. Evaluation of H{sub 2}O{sub 2}-generation during oxygen reduction at electrodeposited Pt particles on mask scratched electrodes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kishi, Akira; Inoue, Mitsuhiro; Umeda, Minoru, E-mail: mumeda@vos.nagaokaut.ac.jp

    2013-08-15

    In this study, the Pt particle deposition was systematically performed by our proposed mask scratch and subsequent Pt electrodeposition in order to investigate the H{sub 2}O{sub 2}-byproduct generation efficiency during O{sub 2} reduction. By peeling a part of polymer layer coated on a glassy carbon substrate using an atomic force microscope cantilever, scratched areas are regularly made. The Pt particles are deposited only on the above-mentioned scratched areas, indicating that the controlled Pt deposition has been achieved. The background cyclic voltammetry of the prepared electrodes showed that the deposited nanoparticles are certainly composed of Pt. Moreover, the electrochemical surface area of the deposited Pt (Pt-ESA) linearly increases with the increasing scratched area, revealing that the Pt-ESAs can be controlled by the mask scratch-based Pt electrodeposition method. It should be noted that an increase in the Pt-ESA not only increases the O{sub 2} reduction currents, but also enhances the H{sub 2}O{sub 2} generation efficiency.

  20. Synthesis of Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25}/SnO{sub 2}/CNT nanoscaled electrode: Low onset potential of ethanol electrooxidation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tabet-Aoul, Amel [Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications (EMT), 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, Canada J3X 1S2 (Canada); Mohamedi, Mohamed, E-mail: mohamedi@emt.inrs.ca [Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications (EMT), 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, Canada J3X 1S2 (Canada)

    2013-03-15

    Highlights: ► A pulsed laser synthesis is used for the deposition of Pt, SnO{sub 2} and PtSn alloy thin films onto carbon nanotubes. ► These nanoscaled materials were characterized by FESEM, TEM, XRD and XPS. ► Enhanced electrocatalytic properties toward ethanol oxidation. -- Abstract: With the objective of lowering the potential oxidation of ethanol at PtSn nanocatalyst, we present the synthesis of free-standing catalyst layer comprising a current collector/carbon nanotubes (catalyst support)/SnO{sub 2}/Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} (catalyst) nanostructured layers, each layer constructed upon the one below it. The CNTs are grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), whereas SnO{sub 2} and Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} are synthesized by pulsed laser deposition and cross-beam laser deposition, respectively. FESEM revealed that Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} nanoparticles assemble into cauliflower-like arrangement. TEM and HR-TEM showed that the Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} layer thickness is of ca. 25 nm with a particle mean diameter of 4.3 nm. It was found that addition of SnO{sub 2} to Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} promotes significantly the oxidation of ethanol at Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} nanoparticles relative to a carbon nanotubes support. Indeed, the electrooxidation of ethanol at CNTs/SnO{sub 2}/Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25} electrode starts at about 100 mV negative with respect to that at CNT/Pt{sub 75}Sn{sub 25}. This decreased overpotential required to oxidize ethanol is very significant and has profound implications to developing high performing anodes for direct ethanol fuel cells technology.

  1. Ion generation and CPC detection efficiency studies in sub 3-nm size range

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kangasluoma, J.; Junninen, H.; Sipilae, M.; Kulmala, M.; Petaejae, T. [Department of Physics, P.O. Box 64, 00014, University of Helsinki, Helsinki (Finland); Lehtipalo, K. [Department of Physics, P.O. Box 64, 00014, University of Helsinki, Helsinki (Finland); Airmodus Ltd., Finland, Gustaf Haellstroemin katu 2 A, 00560 Helsinki (Finland); Mikkilae, J.; Vanhanen, J. [Airmodus Ltd., Finland, Gustaf Haellstroemin katu 2 A, 00560 Helsinki (Finland); Attoui, M. [University Paris Est Creteil, University Paris-Diderot, LISA, UMR CNRS 7583 (France); Worsnop, D. [Department of Physics, P.O. Box 64, 00014, University of Helsinki, Helsinki (Finland) and Aerodyne Research Inc., Billerica, MA (United States)

    2013-05-24

    We studied the chemical composition of commonly used condensation particle counter calibration ions with a mass spectrometer and found that in our calibration setup the negatively charged ammonium sulphate, sodium chloride and tungsten oxide are the least contaminated whereas silver on both positive and negative and the three mentioned earlier in positive mode are contaminated with organics. We report cut-off diameters for Airmodus Particle Size Magnifier (PSM) 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6 and 1.6-1.8 nm for negative sodium chloride, ammonium sulphate, tungsten oxide, silver and positive organics, respectively. To study the effect of sample relative humidity on detection efficiency of the PSM we used different humidities in the differential mobility analyzer sheath flow and found that with increasing relative humidity also the detection efficiency of the PSM increases.

  2. Ion generation and CPC detection efficiency studies in sub 3-nm size range

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kangasluoma, J.; Junninen, H.; Sipilä, M.; Kulmala, M.; Petäjä, T.; Lehtipalo, K.; Mikkilä, J.; Vanhanen, J.; Attoui, M.; Worsnop, D.

    2013-01-01

    We studied the chemical composition of commonly used condensation particle counter calibration ions with a mass spectrometer and found that in our calibration setup the negatively charged ammonium sulphate, sodium chloride and tungsten oxide are the least contaminated whereas silver on both positive and negative and the three mentioned earlier in positive mode are contaminated with organics. We report cut-off diameters for Airmodus Particle Size Magnifier (PSM) 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6 and 1.6-1.8 nm for negative sodium chloride, ammonium sulphate, tungsten oxide, silver and positive organics, respectively. To study the effect of sample relative humidity on detection efficiency of the PSM we used different humidities in the differential mobility analyzer sheath flow and found that with increasing relative humidity also the detection efficiency of the PSM increases.

  3. Size characterization by Sedimentation Field Flow Fractionation of silica particles used as food additives

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Contado, Catia, E-mail: Catia.Contado@unife.it [University of Ferrara, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, via L. Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara (Italy); Ravani, Laura [University of Ferrara, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, via L. Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara (Italy); Passarella, Martina [University of Ferrara, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, via L. Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara (Italy)

    2013-07-25

    Graphical abstract: -- Highlights: •Four types of SiO{sub 2} particles were characterized by SdFFF, PCS and EM techniques. •Clusters of 10 nm nanoparticles were found in some SiO{sub 2} samples. •A method was set up to extract SiO{sub 2} particles from food matrices. •The effects of the carrier solution composition on SdFFF separations were evaluated. •Particle size distributions were obtained from SiO{sub 2} particles extracted from foodstuffs. -- Abstract: Four types of SiO{sub 2}, available on the market as additives in food and personal care products, were size characterized using Sedimentation Field Flow Fractionation (SdFFF), SEM, TEM and Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS). The synergic use of the different analytical techniques made it possible, for some samples, to confirm the presence of primary nanoparticles (10 nm) organized in clusters or aggregates of different dimension and, for others, to discover that the available information is incomplete, particularly that regarding the presence of small particles. A protocol to extract the silica particles from a simple food matrix was set up, enriching (0.25%, w w{sup −1}) a nearly silica-free instant barley coffee powder with a known SiO{sub 2} sample. The SdFFF technique, in conjunction with SEM observations, made it possible to identify the added SiO{sub 2} particles and verify the new particle size distribution. The SiO{sub 2} content of different powdered foodstuffs was determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS); the concentrations ranged between 0.006 and 0.35% (w w{sup −1}). The protocol to isolate the silica particles was so applied to the most SiO{sub 2}-rich commercial products and the derived suspensions were separated by SdFFF; SEM and TEM observations supported the size analyses while GFAAS determinations on collected fractions permitted element identification.

  4. Spin wave eigenmodes in single and coupled sub-150 nm rectangular permalloy dots

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Carlotti, G., E-mail: giovanni.carlotti@fisica.unipg.it; Madami, M. [Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Perugia (Italy); Tacchi, S. [Istituto Officina dei Materiali del CNR (CNR-IOM), Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Perugia (Italy); Gubbiotti, G.; Dey, H.; Csaba, G.; Porod, W. [Center for Nano Science and Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556 (United States)

    2015-05-07

    We present the results of a Brillouin light scattering investigation of thermally excited spin wave eigenmodes in square arrays of either isolated rectangular dots of permalloy or twins of dipolarly coupled elements, placed side-by-side or head-to-tail. The nanodots, fabricated by e-beam lithography and lift-off, are 20 nm thick and have the major size D in the range between 90 nm and 150 nm. The experimental spectra show the presence of two main peaks, corresponding to modes localized either at the edges or in the center of the dots. Their frequency dependence on the dot size and on the interaction with adjacent elements has been measured and successfully interpreted on the basis of dynamical micromagnetic simulations. The latter enabled us also to describe the spatial profile of the eigenmodes, putting in evidence the effects induced by the dipolar interaction between coupled dots. In particular, in twinned dots the demagnetizing field is appreciably modified in proximity of the “internal edges” if compared to the “external” ones, leading to a splitting of the edge mode. These results can be relevant for the exploitation of sub-150 nm magnetic dots in new applications, such as magnonic metamaterials, bit-patterned storage media, and nano-magnetic logic devices.

  5. One step aqueous solution preparation of nanosize iron-doped tin oxide from SnO{sub 2}.xH{sub 2}O gel

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Melghit, Khaled [Chemistry Department, College of Science, P.O. Box 36, Al-Khodh 123, Sultan Qaboos University (Oman)]. E-mail: melghit@squ.edu.om; Bouziane, Khalid [Physics Department, College of Science, P.O. Box 36, Al-Khodh 123, Sultan Qaboos University (Oman)

    2006-03-15

    Nanosized iron-doped tin oxide solid solution was prepared by mixing tin oxide gel SnO{sub 2}.xH{sub 2}O with a boiling solution of iron nitrate. The XRD data of the as-prepared and annealed sample at 773 K show that the patterns are indexed to the rutile phase without any trace of an extra phase. SEM and TEM results performed on different selected area of the samples reveal a homogeneous composition of 8 at.% of Fe content and a size of about 2 nm of the particles. The particles size was found to increase slightly with temperature; about 7 nm after 24 h at 773 K. Structural and magnetic results seem to indicate that Fe{sup 3+} substitute for Sn{sup 4+} on the as-prepared sample. The system presents some weak ferromagnetic character at room temperature.

  6. Degradation kinetics and mechanism of β-lactam antibiotics by the activation of H{sub 2}O{sub 2} and Na{sub 2}S{sub 2}O{sub 8} under UV-254 nm irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    He, Xuexiang [Environmental Engineering and Science Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0012 (United States); Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Nireas-International Water Research Centre, School of Engineering, University of Cyprus, PO Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia (Cyprus); Mezyk, Stephen P. [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Long Beach, 1250 Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90840 (United States); Michael, Irene; Fatta-Kassinos, Despo [Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Nireas-International Water Research Centre, School of Engineering, University of Cyprus, PO Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia (Cyprus); Dionysiou, Dionysios D., E-mail: dionysios.d.dionysiou@uc.edu [Environmental Engineering and Science Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0012 (United States); Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Nireas-International Water Research Centre, School of Engineering, University of Cyprus, PO Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia (Cyprus)

    2014-08-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Removal efficiency was comparable at different UV fluence rates but same fluence. • Reducing pH to 3 or 2 did not inhibit the removal of nitrobenzene by UV/S{sub 2}O{sub 8}{sup 2−}. • 1.84 × 10{sup −14} M [HO{sup •} ]{sub ss} and 3.10 × 10{sup −13} M [SO{sub 4}{sup •} {sup −}]{sub ss} in UV/S{sub 2}O{sub 8}{sup 2−} were estimated. • HO{sup •} reacted faster with the β-lactams than SO{sub 4}{sup •} {sup −} but sharing similar byproducts. • Transformation pathways included hydroxylation, hydrolysis and decarboxylation. - Abstract: The extensive production and usage of antibiotics have led to an increasing occurrence of antibiotic residuals in various aquatic compartments, presenting a significant threat to both ecosystem and human health. This study investigated the degradation of selected β-lactam antibiotics (penicillins: ampicillin, penicillin V, and piperacillin; cephalosporin: cephalothin) by UV-254 nm activated H{sub 2}O{sub 2} and S{sub 2}O{sub 8}{sup 2−} photochemical processes. The UV irradiation alone resulted in various degrees of direct photolysis of the antibiotics; while the addition of the oxidants improved significantly the removal efficiency. The steady-state radical concentrations were estimated, revealing a non-negligible contribution of hydroxyl radicals in the UV/S{sub 2}O{sub 8}{sup 2−} system. Mineralization of the β-lactams could be achieved at high UV fluence, with a slow formation of SO{sub 4}{sup 2−} and a much lower elimination of total organic carbon (TOC). The transformation mechanisms were also investigated showing the main reaction pathways of hydroxylation (+16 Da) at the aromatic ring and/or the sulfur atom, hydrolysis (+18 Da) at the β-lactam ring and decarboxylation (–44 Da) for the three penicillins. Oxidation of amine group was also observed for ampicillin. This study suggests that UV/H{sub 2}O{sub 2} and UV/S{sub 2}O{sub 8}{sup 2−} advanced

  7. The comparison of photocatalytic activity of synthesized TiO{sub 2} and ZrO{sub 2} nanosize onto wool fibers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Moafi, Hadi Fallah [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Namjoo Street, P.O. Box 1914, Rasht (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Shojaie, Abdollah Fallah, E-mail: a.f.shojaie@guilan.ac.ir [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Namjoo Street, P.O. Box 1914, Rasht (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Zanjanchi, Mohammad Ali [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Namjoo Street, P.O. Box 1914, Rasht (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2010-04-15

    TiO{sub 2} and ZrO{sub 2} nanocrystals were successfully synthesized and deposited onto wool fibers using the sol-gel technique at low temperature. The photocatalytic activities of TiO{sub 2}-coated and ZrO{sub 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{sub 2}-coated and 20-40 nm in size for ZrO{sub 2}-coated samples on the fiber surface. Comparison of the photocatalytic activity of the coated samples reveals superiority of TiO{sub 2} modified sample with respect to that of ZrO{sub 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.

  8. Synthesis and anomalous magnetic properties of LaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles by hot soap method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fujii, Tatsuo, E-mail: tfujii@cc.okayama-u.ac.jp [Department of Applied Chemistry, Okayama University, Tsushima-naka 3-1-1, Okayama 700-8530 (Japan); Matsusue, Ikkoh; Nakatsuka, Daisuke; Nakanishi, Makoto; Takada, Jun [Department of Applied Chemistry, Okayama University, Tsushima-naka 3-1-1, Okayama 700-8530 (Japan)

    2011-10-03

    Highlights: {yields} Nanocrystalline LaFeO{sub 3} particles were synthesized by using hot soap technique. {yields} Average diameter of the obtained LaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles was about 15 nm. {yields} They exhibited superparamagnetic behavior with a blocking temperature of 30 K. {yields} Large magnetization due to the presence of uncompensated surface spins was induced. - Abstract: Nanocrystalline LaFeO{sub 3} particles were synthesized at low temperatures by using hot soap technique. The synthesis was based on the thermal decomposition of organometallic compounds precipitated in a hot coordinating solvent. Moderate heat treatment at low temperature far below the combustion point of organic compounds produced spherical LaFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles with average diameter of about 15 nm. The crystalline phase, structure and particle size of obtained products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations. In spite of the antiferromagnetic nature of bulk LaFeO{sub 3}, the obtained nanoparticles exhibited anomalous large magnetization. Superparamagnetic behavior with a blocking temperature of about 30 K was observed in both magnetization and Moessbauer spectroscopic analyses.

  9. γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} by sol–gel with large nanoparticles size for magnetic hyperthermia application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lemine, O.M., E-mail: leminej@yahoo.com [Physics Department, College of Sciences, Al Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia); Omri, K. [Laboratory of Physics of Materials and Nanomaterials Applied at Environment (LaPhyMNE), Faculty of Sciences in Gabes, Gabes (Tunisia); Iglesias, M.; Velasco, V. [Instituto de Magnetismo Aplicado, UCM-ADIF-CSIC (Spain); Crespo, P.; Presa, P. de la [Instituto de Magnetismo Aplicado, UCM-ADIF-CSIC (Spain); Dpto. Física de Materiales, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Spain); El Mir, L. [Physics Department, College of Sciences, Al Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia); Laboratory of Physics of Materials and Nanomaterials Applied at Environment (LaPhyMNE), Faculty of Sciences in Gabes, Gabes (Tunisia); Bouzid, Houcine [Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Najran University, P.O. Box 1988, Najran 11001 (Saudi Arabia); Laboratoire des Matériaux Ferroélectriques, Faculté des Sciences de Sfax, Route Soukra Km 3 5, B.P. 802, F-3018 Sfax (Tunisia); Yousif, A. [Department of Physics, College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 36, Code 123, Al Khoud (Oman); Al-Hajry, Ali [Promising Centre for Sensors and Electronic Devices (PCSED), Najran University, P.O. Box 1988, Najran 11001 (Saudi Arabia)

    2014-09-01

    Highlights: • Iron oxides nanoparticles with different sizes are successfully synthesized using sol–gel method. • The obtained nanoparticles are mainly composed of maghemite phase (γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}). • A non-negligible coercive field suggests that the particles are ferromagnetic. • A mean heating efficiency of 30 W/g is obtained for the smallest particles at 110 kHz and 190 Oe. - Abstract: Iron oxides nanoparticles with different sizes are successfully synthesized using sol–gel method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Mössbauer spectroscopy show that the obtained nanoparticles are mainly composed of maghemite phase (γ-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}). XRD and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results suggest that the nanoparticles have sizes ranging from 14 to 30 nm, which are indeed confirmed by large magnetic saturation and high blocking temperature. At room temperature, the observation of a non-negligible coercive field suggests that the particles are ferro/ferrimagnetic. The specific absorption rate (SAR) under an alternating magnetic field is investigated as a function of size, frequency and amplitude of the applied magnetic field. A mean heating efficiency of 30 W/g is obtained for the smallest particles at 110 kHz and 190 Oe, whereas further increase of particle size does not improve significantly the heating efficiency.

  10. Inter-particle and interfacial interaction of magnetic nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bae, Che Jin; Hwang, Yosun; Park, Jongnam; An, Kwangjin; Lee, Youjin; Lee, Jinwoo; Hyeon, Taeghwan; Park, J.-G.

    2007-01-01

    In order to understand inter-particle as well as interfacial interaction of magnetic nanoparticles, we have prepared several Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles in the ranges from 3 to 50 nm. These nanoparticles are particularly well characterized in terms of size distribution with a standard deviation (σ) in size less than 0.4 nm. We investigated the inter-particle interaction by measuring the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles while controlling inter-particle distances by diluting the samples with solvents. According to this study, blocking temperatures dropped by 8-17 K with increasing the inter-particle distances from a few nm to 140 nm while the overall shape and qualitative behavior of the magnetization remain unchanged. It implies that most features observed in the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles are due to the intrinsic properties of the nanoparticles, not due to the inter-particle interaction. We then examined possible interfacial magnetic interaction in the core-shell structure of our Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles

  11. Visible active nanocrystalline N-doped anatase TiO{sub 2} particles for photocatalytic mineralization studies

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Barkul, R.P. [Department of Chemistry, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad, Sub–campus Osmanabad, 413 501, MS (India); Koli, V.B.; Shewale, V.B. [Department of Chemistry, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, 416 004, MS (India); Patil, M.K. [Department of Chemistry, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad, Sub–campus Osmanabad, 413 501, MS (India); Delekar, S.D., E-mail: sddelekar7@rediffmail.com [Department of Chemistry, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad, Sub–campus Osmanabad, 413 501, MS (India); Department of Chemistry, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, 416 004, MS (India); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, 30306-4390, FL (United States)

    2016-04-15

    Nitrogen-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (N–TiO{sub 2} NPs) with anatase phase were synthesized by sol–gel method using a single precursor containing titanium (IV) terbutoxide, glacial acetic acid, sodium dodecyl sulphate, ammonia, and urea. X-ray diffraction (XRD) reveals the nanocrystalline nature with anatase phase of all the samples. The particle size of all samples was found in the range of 5–12 nm using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). UV–visible absorption measurements examined that the optical band gap of the doped samples decrease with increase in dopant concentration from 0.0 to 7.0 mol%. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive atomic X-ray (EDAX) spectroscopy was employed to analyse the morphology and chemical composition of these N–TiO{sub 2} NPs. The photocatalytic activity of bare/doped TiO{sub 2} samples was demonstrated for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye under direct sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation was monitored by measuring the kinetic parameters based on UV–visible spectroscopy as well as the chemical oxygen demand (COD) during the course of the reaction. The effect of dye concentration and pH of the solution on the photocatalytic degradation reaction in the presence of colloidal bare/doped TiO{sub 2} were also studied. The N–TiO{sub 2} catalyst, with a nitrogen concentration of 7.0 mol%, showed the highest activity for photocatalytic mineralization of dye at acidic or alkaline medium than neutral condition under solar light irradiation directly. - Highlights: • Nitrogen doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles where synthesized by using simple sol–gel method at room temperature. • N–TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles shows red shift. • Hydroxylation on the surface of TiO{sub 2} increase with increasing nitrogen concentration. • In presence of sunlight N–TiO{sub 2} shows enhancement in degradation of RhB dye.

  12. Study of lead phytoavailability for atmospheric industrial micronic and sub-micronic particles in relation with lead speciation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Uzu, G. [EcoLab UMR 5245 CNRS-INPT-UPS, ENSAT BP 32607 Auzeville Tolosane, 31326 Castanet Tolosan (France)], E-mail: gaelle.uzu@ensat.fr; Sobanska, S. [LASIR UMR 8516, Universite des Sciences et Technologies de Lille, Batiment C5, 59655 Villeneuve d' Ascq Cedex (France)], E-mail: Sophie.Sobanska@univ-lille1.fr; Aliouane, Y. [EcoLab UMR 5245 CNRS-INPT-UPS, ENSAT BP 32607 Auzeville Tolosane, 31326 Castanet Tolosan (France); Pradere, P. [Chemical Metal Treatment Company, STCM, 30-32 chemin de Fondeyre, 31200 Toulouse (France)], E-mail: p.pradere@stc-metaux.com; Dumat, C. [EcoLab UMR 5245 CNRS-INPT-UPS, ENSAT BP 32607 Auzeville Tolosane, 31326 Castanet Tolosan (France)], E-mail: camille.dumat@ensat.fr

    2009-04-15

    Particles from channelled emissions of a battery recycling facility were size-segregated and investigated to correlate their speciation and morphology with their transfer towards lettuce. Microculture experiments carried out with various calcareous soils spiked with micronic and sub-micronic particles (1650 {+-} 20 mg Pb kg{sup -1}) highlighted a greater transfer in soils mixed with the finest particles. According to XRD and Raman spectroscopy results, the two fractions presented differences in the amount of minor lead compounds like carbonates, but their speciation was quite similar, in decreasing order of abundance: PbS, PbSO{sub 4}, PbSO{sub 4}.PbO, {alpha}-PbO and Pb{sup 0}. Morphology investigations revealed that PM{sub 2.5} (i.e. Particulate Matter 2.5 composed of particles suspended in air with aerodynamic diameters of 2.5 {mu}m or less) contained many Pb nanoballs and nanocrystals which could influence lead availability. The soil-plant transfer of lead was mainly influenced by size and was very well estimated by 0.01 M CaCl{sub 2} extraction. - The soil-lettuce lead transfer from atmospheric industrial sub-micronic and micronic particles depends on particle size.

  13. Particle size effect on microwave absorbing of La{sub 0.67}Ba{sub 0.33}Mn{sub 0.94}Ti{sub 0.06}O{sub 3} powders prepared by mechanical alloying with the assistance of ultrasonic irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saptari, Sitti Ahmiatri, E-mail: siti-ahmiatri@yahoo.co.id [Faculty of Science and Technology, State Islamic University, Jakarta (Indonesia); Manaf, Azwar; Kurniawan, Budhy [Departement of Physics, University of Indonesia, Depok (Indonesia)

    2016-03-11

    Doped manganites have attracted substantial interest due to their unique chemical and physics properties, which makes it possible to be used for microwave absorbing materials. In this paper we report synthesizes and characterization of La{sub 0.67}Ba{sub 0.33}Mn{sub 0.94}Ti{sub 0.06}O{sub 3} powders prepared by mechanical alloying with the assistance of a high power ultrasonic treatment. After solid state reaction, the presence of single phase was confirmed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Refinement results showed that samples are single phase with monoclinic structure. It was found that powder materials derived from mechanical alloying results in large variation in the particle size. A significant improvement was obtained upon subjecting the mechanically milled powder materials to an ultrasonication treatment for a relatively short period of time. As determined by particle size analyzer (PSA), the mean particle size gradually decreased from the original size of 5.02 µm to 0.36 µm. Magnetic properties were characterized by VSM, and hysteresis loops results showed that samples are soft magnetic. It was found that when the mean particle size decreases, saturation was increases and coersitivity was decreases. Microwave absorption properties were investigated in the frequency range of 8-12 GHz using vector network analyzer. An optimal reflection loss of 24.44 dB is reached at 11.4 GHz.

  14. Structural and photoluminescence investigations of Sm{sup 3+} doped BaY{sub 2}ZnO{sub 5} nanophosphors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chahar, Sangeeta; Taxak, V.B.; Dalal, Mandeep; Singh, Sonika; Khatkar, S.P., E-mail: s_khatkar@rediffmail.com

    2016-05-15

    Highlights: • BaY{sub 2(1−x)}Sm{sub 2x}ZnO{sub 5} nanophosphors have been synthesized via solution combustion. • The nanophosphors have been characterized by XRD, TEM and PL spectroscopy. • The crystal structure reveals influence of doping on lattice parameters. • This nanophosphor executes orange–red emission under near UV excitation. - Abstract: BaY{sub 2}ZnO{sub 5}:Sm{sup 3+} nanophosphor was successfully synthesized using solution combustion process. XRD and photoluminescence (PL) techniques were used to analyze the structural and photoluminescence properties. Morphological study of the thermally stable powder was carried out using transmission electron microscope (TEM). Rietveld refinement technique has been used to analyze the samples qualitatively as well as quantitatively. X-Ray diffraction analysis confirms that the highly crystalline single phased Sm{sup 3+} doped BaY{sub 2}ZnO{sub 5} nanophosphor crystallizes in orthorhombic lattice with Pbnm space group. The average particle size lies in the range 80–90 nm with spherical morphology. The photoluminescence excitation at 411 nm yields an intense orange–red emission centered at 610 nm due to {sup 4}G{sub 5/2}–{sup 6}H{sub 7/2} transition. The concentration dependent luminescent behavior of BaY{sub 2(1−x)}Sm{sub 2x}ZnO{sub 5} nanophosphor shows that the optimum concentration for best luminescence is 3 mol%. These results indicate that these nanophosphors find potential applications in the field of phosphor-converted white LED systems.

  15. Phase Transformation Behavior of Oxide Particles Formed in Mechanically Alloyed Fe-5Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} Powder

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Ga Eon; Choi, Jung-Sun; Noh, Sanghoon; Kang, Suk Hoon; Choi, Byoung Kwon; Kim, Tae Kyu [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Deajeon (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Young Do [Hanyang University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2017-05-15

    The phase transformation behavior of the oxides formed in mechanically alloyed Fe-5Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder is investigated. Non-stoichiometric Y-rich and Fe-rich oxides with sizes of less than 300 nm are observed in the mechanically alloyed powder. The diffusion and redistribution reactions of the elements in these oxides during heating of the powder above 800 ℃ were observed, and these reactions result in the formation of a Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} phase after heating at 1050 ℃. Thus, it is considered that the Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder and some Fe powder are formed from the non-stoichiometric Y-rich and Fe-rich oxides after the mechanical alloying process, and a considerable energy accumulated during the mechanical alloying process leads to a phase transformation of the Y-rich and Fe-rich oxides to Y{sub α}Fe{sub β}O{sub γ}-type phase during heating.

  16. Size-resolved chemical composition, effective density, and optical properties of biomass burning particles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhai, Jinghao; Lu, Xiaohui; Li, Ling; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Ci; Chen, Hong; Yang, Xin; Chen, Jianmin

    2017-06-01

    Biomass burning aerosol has an important impact on the global radiative budget. A better understanding of the correlations between the mixing states of biomass burning particles and their optical properties is the goal of a number of current studies. In this work, the effective density, chemical composition, and optical properties of rice straw burning particles in the size range of 50-400 nm were measured using a suite of online methods. We found that the major components of particles produced by burning rice straw included black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC), and potassium salts, but the mixing states of particles were strongly size dependent. Particles of 50 nm had the smallest effective density (1.16 g cm-3) due to a relatively large proportion of aggregate BC. The average effective densities of 100-400 nm particles ranged from 1.35 to 1.51 g cm-3 with OC and inorganic salts as dominant components. Both density distribution and single-particle mass spectrometry showed more complex mixing states in larger particles. Upon heating, the separation of the effective density distribution modes confirmed the external mixing state of less-volatile BC or soot and potassium salts. The size-resolved optical properties of biomass burning particles were investigated at two wavelengths (λ = 450 and 530 nm). The single-scattering albedo (SSA) showed the lowest value for 50 nm particles (0.741 ± 0.007 and 0.889 ± 0.006) because of the larger proportion of BC content. Brown carbon played an important role for the SSA of 100-400 nm particles. The Ångström absorption exponent (AAE) values for all particles were above 1.6, indicating the significant presence of brown carbon in all sizes. Concurrent measurements in our work provide a basis for discussing the physicochemical properties of biomass burning aerosol and its effects on the global climate and atmospheric environment.

  17. Synthesis of basalt fiber@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O core/shell nanostructures for selective photoreduction of CO{sub 2} to CO

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kwak, Byeong Sub; Kim, Kang Min [Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Sun-Min, E-mail: psm@kicet.re.kr [Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology (KICET), Jinju, Gyeongnam 52851 (Korea, Republic of); Kang, Misook, E-mail: mskang@ynu.ac.kr [Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541 (Korea, Republic of)

    2017-06-15

    Highlights: • ZnO and Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O crystals were grown onto the BFs. • The core@shell structured BF@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O particles significantly increased the adsorption of CO{sub 2} gas. • The BF@ZnO or BF@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O particles selectively reduce the carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide. - Abstract: This study focused on the development of a catalyst for converting carbon dioxide, the main cause of global warming, into a beneficial energy source. Core@shell structured particles, BF@ZnO and BF@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O, are synthesized in order to selectively obtain CO gas from the photoreduction of CO{sub 2}. A modified sol-gel process is used to synthesize the core@shell structures with a three-dimensional microstructure, which are subsequently characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDAX), ultraviolet (UV)–vis absorption, photoluminescence (PL), and photocurrent density analysis. The CO{sub 2} adsorption abilities of the core@shell particles are estimated through CO{sub 2}-temperature programmed desorption (TPD). The core@shell structured BF@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O particles including the Mg ingredient significantly increased the adsorption of CO{sub 2} gas at the microfiber/nanoparticle interface. Both the BF@ZnO and BF@Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O particles selectively reduce the carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide, with almost no other reduced products being observed. These results are attributed to the effective adsorption of CO{sub 2} gas and inhibited recombination of the photogenerated electron–hole pairs. BF@Zn{sub 0.75}Mg{sub 0.25}O exhibited superior photocatalytic behavior and selectively produced 5.0 μmolg{sub cat}{sup −1} L{sup −1} of CO gas after 8 h of reaction.

  18. Rapid preparation of ultrafine BaSO{sub 3} by SO{sub 2} storage material

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Fei; Sha, Feng; Qiao, Xian Shu; Zhao, Tian Xiang; Guo, Bo; Zhang, Jian Bin [College of Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University of Technology, Huhhot (Korea, Republic of)

    2017-01-15

    In this work, a green and efficient process was developed for the preparation of ultrafine BaSO{sub 3} with layered nanostructure surface via the reaction of BaCl{sub 2} with a SO{sub 2} storage material (SO{sub 2}SM) at room temperature. The absorption of SO{sub 2} with equimolar ethylenediamine (EDA) and ethylene glycol (EG) afforded SO{sub 2}SM, which not only offered alkyl sulfite but also released EDA and EG that served as efficient surfactants to promote the formation of BaSO{sub 3} with spherical morphology and porous structure in the process of synthesis of ultrafine BaSO{sub 3}. The factors affecting the morphology and size of BaSO{sub 3} particle were assessed by investigating the effects of SO{sub 2}SM concentration, BaCl{sub 2} concentration, stirring time and speed. It was found that a higher SO{sub 2}SM concentration led to a higher degree of supersaturation, and the particle size of BaSO{sub 3} could be reduced by increasing SO{sub 2}SM concentration. Moreover, under the identified optimal reaction conditions, ultrafine BaSO{sub 3} was obtained with an average diameter of 450 nm. In addition, a plausible formation process of BaSO{sub 3} was proposed to explain the observed reaction results. Overall, the developed process in this work provides an efficient method for the capture, utilization, and conversion of SO{sub 2} into a valuable chemical.

  19. Observation of giant exchange bias in bulk Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 8} Heusler alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sharma, Jyoti; Suresh, K. G., E-mail: suresh@iitb.ac.in [Magnetic Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, Indian institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076 (India)

    2015-02-16

    We report a giant exchange bias (EB) field of 3520 Oe in bulk Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 8} Heusler alloy. The low temperature magnetic state of the martensite phase has been studied by DC magnetization and AC susceptibility measurements. Frequency dependence of spin freezing temperature (T{sub f}) on critical slowing down relation and observation of memory effect in zero field cooling mode confirms the super spin glass (SSG) phase at low temperatures. Large EB is attributed to the strong exchange coupling between the SSG clusters formed by small regions of ferromagnetic order embedded in an antiferromagnetic (AFM) matrix. The temperature and cooling field dependence of EB have been studied and related to the change in unidirectional anisotropy at SSG/AFM interface. The training effect also corroborates with the presence of frozen (SSG) moments at the interface and their role in EB.

  20. Luminescent properties of codoping Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu, Me (Me = Mg, Ca) nanorods

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu Zhilong; Wang Qin; Yang Yuming; Tao Chunyan; Yang Hua, E-mail: huayang86@sina.co [Jilin University, College of Chemistry (China)

    2010-08-15

    Phosphors of nanorods Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu (Mg, Ca) have been prepared by the hydrothermal method. The effect of Mg, Ca co-dopants on the Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu phosphor photoluminescence (PL) property was investigated. Upon excitation with ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, it is shown that there is a strong emission at around 610 nm corresponding to the forced electric dipole {sup 5}D{sub 0}-{sup 7}F{sub 2} transition of Eu{sup 3+}. At a certain concentration, Mg, Ca ions' doping effectively enhanced the luminescent properties of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu{sup 3+} nanorods and did not change the cubic phase of the host. The structure of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}: Eu{sup 3+} (Mg, Ca) phosphors was characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD). From XRD patterns, it is indicated that the phosphor Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:(Eu, Ca) forms without impurity phase. From SEM, TEM images, it is shown that the crystal size of the nanorods phosphors is about 1-2 {mu}m in length and 30-50 nm in diameter.

  1. Hierarchically structured superhydrophobic coatings fabricated by successive Langmuir-Blodgett deposition of micro-/nano-sized particles and surface silanization.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tsai, Ping-Szu; Yang, Yu-Min; Lee, Yuh-Lang

    2007-11-21

    The present study demonstrates the creation of a stable, superhydrophobic surface by coupling of successive Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) depositions of micro- and nano-sized (1.5 µm/50 nm, 1.0 µm/50 nm, and 0.5 µm/50 nm) silica particles on a glass substrate with the formation of a self-assembled monolayer of dodecyltrichlorosilane on the surface of the particulate film. Particulate films, in which one layer of 50 nm particles was deposited over one to five sublayers of larger micro-sized particles, with hierarchical surface roughness and superhydrophobicity, were successfully fabricated. Furthermore, the present 'two-scale' (micro- and nano-sized particles) approach is superior to the previous 'one-scale' (micro-sized particles) approach in that both higher advancing contact angle and lower contact angle hysteresis can be realized. Experimental results revealed that the superhydrophobicity exhibited by as-fabricated particulate films with different sublayer particle diameters increases in the order of 0.5 µm>1.0 µm>1.5 µm. However, no clear trend between sublayer number and surface superhydrophobicity could be discerned. An explanation of superhydrophobicity based on the surface roughness introduced by two-scale particles is also proposed.

  2. The anomalous behaviour of Ag-Al sub 2 O sub 3 Cermet electroformed devices

    CERN Document Server

    Khan, M S R

    2003-01-01

    Cermet coating consisting of silver particles in an aluminium oxide matrix were prepared on glass substrates by vacuum deposition. Variation of the circulating current with potential difference was obtained in evaporated Al/Ag-Al sub 2 O sub 3 /Cu sandwich structures, 100 to 200 nm thick containing 10 wt % Ag. It was observed that the investigated sandwich structures exhibit anomalous behaviour such as electroforming with Voltage-Controlled-Negative Resistance (VCNR) in vacuo of approx 4 x 10 sup - sup 6 torr. The formed characteristics were explained on the basis of filamentary model.

  3. Characterization and magnetic properties of Nd{sub x}Bi{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 0.95}Co{sub 0.05}O{sub 3} nanopowders synthesized by combustion-derived method at low temperature

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hernández, N., E-mail: netzahualpille.hernandeznv@uanl.edu.mx [Centro de Innovación, Investigación y Desarrollo en Ingeniería y Tecnología, Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km. 10 de la nueva carretera al Aeropuerto Internacional de Monterrey, PIIT Monterrey, CP 66600 Apodaca, Nuevo León (Mexico); González-González, V.A.; Dzul-Bautista, I.B.; Cienfuegos-Pelaes, R.F. [Centro de Innovación, Investigación y Desarrollo en Ingeniería y Tecnología, Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica y Eléctrica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km. 10 de la nueva carretera al Aeropuerto Internacional de Monterrey, PIIT Monterrey, CP 66600 Apodaca, Nuevo León (Mexico); Barandiaran, J.M.; Gutierréz, J. [BCMaterials and Universidad del País Vasco (UPV/EHU), Departamento de Electricidad y Electrónica, P.O Box 644, 48080 Bilbao (Spain); Hernández, T. [Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, C.P. 66450 San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León (Mexico); and others

    2015-03-01

    Nd{sub x}Bi{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 0.95}Co{sub 0.05}O{sub 3} (x=0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15) nanopowders were prepared by a combustion-derived method. The Rietvelt fitting of the X-Ray diffraction data from the Nd{sub x}Bi{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 0.95}Co{sub 0.05}O{sub 3} (NBFCO) powders showed nanopowders with rhombohedral BiFeO{sub 3} crystalline structure (R3c) for x≤10 and a partial structural transition to orthorhombic phase (Pnma) for x=0.15. The differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (DTA/TGA) showed a crystallization temperature of 180 °C. Transmission electronmicroscopy (TEM) images revealed that the NBFCO nanopowders were composed of fine particles under 60 nm. From Raman spectroscopy, a band of disordered anion lattice was observed at 653 cm{sup −1}. In spite of the antiferromagnetic nature of bulk BiFeO{sub 3}, the NBFCO nanopowders obtained displayed a ferromagnetic hysteresis loop, with coercivity about 0.1 T and remanent magnetization of 1.02–4.33 A m{sup 2}/kg were obtained at room temperature. This ferromagnetic behavior is due to increasing and uncompensated spins at the surface and the canted internal spin by the tilt of FeO{sub 6} octahedral units. We have developed a novel synthetic route for the preparation of ferromagnetic BFO-derived nanopowder materials by a surfactant-assisted combustion-derived method. - Highlights: • The structure of materials obtained is studied. • A new synthesis method was proposed to obtain ferrimagnetic–ferromagnetic BiFeO{sub 3} nanoparticles. • Synthesis temperature does not exceed 200 °C. • The obtained nanoparticles have sizes less than 52 nm.

  4. Properties and growth peculiarities of Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} stressor integrated in 14 nm fin-based p-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hikavyy, A., E-mail: Andriy.Hikavyy@imec.be; Rosseel, E.; Kubicek, S.; Mannaert, G.; Favia, P.; Bender, H.; Loo, R.; Horiguchi, N.

    2016-03-01

    Integration of Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} in the Source/Drain (S/D) areas of metal oxide semiconductor transistors built according to 14 nm technological node rules has been shown. SiGe properties and growth peculiarities are presented and elaborated. In order to preserve the fin structures during a pre-epitaxy surface preparation, the H{sub 2} bake pressure had to be increased to 19,998 Pa at 800 °C. Influence of this bake on the Si recess in the S/D areas is presented. Excellent quality of both the raised and the embedded Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} was demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy inspections. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy measurement showed two stages of SiGe growth for the embedded case: first with a lower Ge content at the beginning of the deposition until the (111) facets are formed, and second with a higher Ge content which is governed by the growth on (111) planes. Nano-beam diffraction analysis showed that SiGe grown in the S/D areas of p-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor is fully elastically relaxed in the direction across the fin and partially strained along the fin. Finally, a strain accumulation effect in the chain of transistors has been observed. - Highlights: • Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} stressor has been implemented in the 14 nm technology node CMOS flow. • Embedded and raised variants have been investigated. • High Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} quality was confirmed. • Si{sub 0.30}Ge{sub 0.70} layer is elastically relaxed across the fin direction. • Partial stress presence and stress accumulation effect were observed.

  5. Multiple magnetic transitions, dynamical magnetic liquid and magnetic glass in La{sub 1−x−y}Pr{sub y}Ca{sub x}MnO{sub 3} (x≈0.42, y≈0.40) thin films: A thickness dependent study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Agarwal, Vasudha; Kandpal, Lalit M.; Siwach, P.K.; Awana, V.P.S. [CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India); AcSIR at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India); Singh, H.K., E-mail: hks65@nplindia.org [CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India); AcSIR at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India)

    2015-11-15

    The influence of substrate induced strain and its relaxation on the evolution of the multiple magnetic transitions and ensuing modifications in the degree of phase separation, the nature of the dynamical magnetic liquid, the randomly frozen glass and insulator–metal transitions have been investigated in single crystalline La{sub 1−x−y}Pr{sub y}Ca{sub x}MnO{sub 3} (x≈0.42, y≈0.40) in t~20–140 nm thick films deposited on LaAlO{sub 3} (001) substrates. The ferromagnetic (FM) transition temperature (T{sub C}) first decreases as the film thickness is increased from t~20 nm to t~60 nm and then increases with increasing film thickness. In contrast the charge ordering (CO), antiferromagnetic (AFM) and glass transition temperatures shift towards higher values with increasing film thickness. The field cooled cooling (FCC) and field cooled warming (FCW) magnetization (M–T) of films having t≥60 nm shows pronounced hysteresis and ΔT{sub C}=T{sub C}{sup FCW}−T{sub C}{sup FCC} decreases concomitantly from 46 K to 35 K as the thickness increases from ~60 to ~140 nm. The thinnest film shows insulator to metal transitions (IMT) only at magnetic field H>40 kOe. Films with t≥T{sub C} show sharp hysteretic IMT, with ΔT{sub IM}=T{sub IM}{sup W}−T{sub IM}{sup C} decreasing from ~70 K to ~50 K as the thickness increases from ~60 nm to ~140 nm. Such strong hysteresis is a characteristic of first order phase transition and also a signature of magnetic liquid like phase created by the magnetic frustration created by the delicate balance between FM and AFM/CO phases. The H induced AFM/CO to FM transition reduces ΔT{sub IM} and at higher fields the phase transition appears akin to the second order. The observed difference in the magnetic and transport properties have been explained in terms of the substrate induced strain at lower film thickness and its relaxation at higher thickness. - Highlights: • Different thickness La{sub 1−x−y}Pr{sub y}Ca{sub x}MnO{sub 3

  6. Characterization of ZnO:SnO{sub 2} (50:50) thin film deposited by RF magnetron sputtering technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cynthia, S. R.; Sanjeeviraja, C.; Ponmudi, S. [Department of Physics, Alagappa Chettiar College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi-630004 (India); Sivakumar, R., E-mail: krsivakumar1979@yahoo.com [Directorate of Distance Education, Alagappa University, Karaikudi-630004 (India)

    2016-05-06

    Zinc oxide (ZnO) and tin oxide (SnO{sub 2}) thin films have attracted significant interest recently for use in optoelectronic application such as solar cells, flat panel displays, photonic devices, laser diodes and gas sensors because of their desirable electrical and optical properties and wide band gap. In the present study, thin films of ZnO:SnO{sub 2} (50:50) were deposited on pre-cleaned microscopic glass substrate by RF magnetron sputtering technique. The substrate temperature and RF power induced changes in structural, surface morphological, compositional and optical properties of the films have been studied.

  7. Low-temperature plasma etching of high aspect-ratio densely packed 15 to sub-10 nm silicon features derived from PS-PDMS block copolymer patterns

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Zuwei; Sassolini, Simone; Olynick, Deirdre L; Gu, Xiaodan; Hwu, Justin

    2014-01-01

    The combination of block copolymer (BCP) lithography and plasma etching offers a gateway to densely packed sub-10 nm features for advanced nanotechnology. Despite the advances in BCP lithography, plasma pattern transfer remains a major challenge. We use controlled and low substrate temperatures during plasma etching of a chromium hard mask and then the underlying substrate as a route to high aspect ratio sub-10 nm silicon features derived from BCP lithography. Siloxane masks were fabricated using poly(styrene-b-siloxane) (PS-PDMS) BCP to create either line-type masks or, with the addition of low molecular weight PS-OH homopolymer, dot-type masks. Temperature control was essential for preventing mask migration and controlling the etched feature’s shape. Vertical silicon wire features (15 nm with feature-to-feature spacing of 26 nm) were etched with aspect ratios up to 17 : 1; higher aspect ratios were limited by the collapse of nanoscale silicon structures. Sub-10 nm fin structures were etched with aspect ratios greater than 10 : 1. Transmission electron microscopy images of the wires reveal a crystalline silicon core with an amorphous surface layer, just slightly thicker than a native oxide. (paper)

  8. Sub?40?fs, 1060?nm Yb?fiber laser enhances penetration depth in nonlinear optical microscopy of human skin

    OpenAIRE

    Balu, Mihaela; Saytashev, Ilyas; Hou, Jue; Dantus, Marcos; Tromberg, Bruce J.

    2015-01-01

    © 2015 The Authors. Advancing the practical utility of nonlinear optical microscopy requires continued improvement in imaging depth and contrast. We evaluated second-harmonic generation (SHG) and third-harmonic generation images from ex vivo human skin and showed that a sub-40 fs, 1060-nm Yb-fiber laser can enhance SHG penetration depth by up to 80% compared to a > 100 fs, 800 nm Ti:sapphire source. These results demonstrate the potential of fiber-based laser systems to address a key perform...

  9. Effect of Nd substitution for Ca on crystal structure, optical and magnetic properties of multiferroic Bi{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Quan, Chuye; Ma, Yuhui; Han, Yumin; Tang, Xingxing; Lu, Mengjia [Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics & Information Displays (KLOEID), Synergetic Innovation Center for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (SICOEID), Institute of Advanced Materials - IAM, School of Materials Science and Engineering - SMSE, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications - NUPT, Nanjing 210023 (China); Mao, Weiwei [Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics & Information Displays (KLOEID), Synergetic Innovation Center for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (SICOEID), Institute of Advanced Materials - IAM, School of Materials Science and Engineering - SMSE, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications - NUPT, Nanjing 210023 (China); School of Science, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NUPT), Nanjing 210023 (China); Zhang, Jian [Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics & Information Displays (KLOEID), Synergetic Innovation Center for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (SICOEID), Institute of Advanced Materials - IAM, School of Materials Science and Engineering - SMSE, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications - NUPT, Nanjing 210023 (China); Yang, Jianping [School of Science, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NUPT), Nanjing 210023 (China); Li, Xing’ao, E-mail: lxahbmy@126.com [Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics & Information Displays (KLOEID), Synergetic Innovation Center for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (SICOEID), Institute of Advanced Materials - IAM, School of Materials Science and Engineering - SMSE, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications - NUPT, Nanjing 210023 (China); and others

    2015-06-25

    Highlights: • Crystal structure of doped samples transform to two phase coexistence. • The crystal size decreased to ∼50 nm after doping. • Ultraviolet absorption peak demonstrates apparent blue shift for doped sample. • The ratio of Fe{sup 2+} increased by merging Nd. • Ca, Nd co-doped can promote the ferromagnetism obviously. - Abstract: Pure and co-doped BiFeO{sub 3} (Ca, Nd) nanoparticles with diameter in the range of 50–250 nm were synthesized through a sol–gel method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman results show that Bi-site co-doped with Ca, Nd could result in a transition of crystal structure (from single phase rhombohedral (R3c) to two phase coexistence). An apparent blue shift can be observed in the co-doped samples along with a decrease of the direct optical band gap. Moreover, the leakage current was decreased due to the introduction of nonvolatile Ca and Nd at Bi{sup 3+} site. Analysis of MPMS-VSM magnetic hysteresis data reveals a further enhancement in magnetism in the Nd doped Bi{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3,} which is further explained by XPS characterization.

  10. Porous sulfated metal oxide SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} as an anode material for Li-ion batteries with enhanced electrochemical performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Zhen; Lv, Qianqian; Huang, Xiaoxiong; Tan, Yueyue; Tang, Bohejin, E-mail: tangbohejin@sues.edu.cn [Shanghai University of Engineering Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (China)

    2017-01-15

    Sulfated metal oxide SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} was prepared by a novel facile sol–gel method combined with a subsequent heating treatment process. The as-synthesized products were analyzed by XRD, FTIR, and FE-SEM. Compared with the unsulfated Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, the agglomeration of particles has been alleviated after the incorporation of SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}. Interestingly, the primary particle size of the SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (about 5 nm) is similar to its normal counterparts even after the calcination treatment. More importantly, SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibits a porous architecture, which is an intriguing feature for electrode materials. When used as anode materials in Li-ion batteries, SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} delivered a higher reversible discharge capacity (992 mAh g{sup −1}), with smaller charge transfer resistance, excellent rate performance, and better cycling stability than normal Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. We believed that the presence of SO{sub 4}{sup 2−} and porous architecture should be responsible for the enhanced electrochemical performance, which could provide more continuous and accessible conductive paths for Li{sup +} and electrons.

  11. Scanning transmission x-ray microscopy of polymer nanoparticles: probing morphology on sub-10 nm length scales.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Burke, Kerry B; Stapleton, Andrew J; Vaughan, Ben; Zhou, Xiaojing; Kilcoyne, A L David; Belcher, Warwick J; Dastoor, Paul C

    2011-07-01

    Water-processable nanoparticle dispersions of semiconducting polymers offer an attractive approach to the fabrication of organic electronic devices since they offer: (1) control of nanoscale morphology and (2) environmentally friendly fabrication. Although the nature of phase segregation in these polymer nanoparticles is critical to device performance, to date there have been no techniques available to directly determine their intra-particle structure, which consequently has been poorly understood. Here, we present scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM) compositional maps for nanoparticles fabricated from poly(9,9-dioctyl-fluorene-2,7-diyl-co-bis-N, N'-(4-butylphenyl)-bis-N, N'-phenyl-1,4-phenylenedi-amine) (PFB) and poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-2,7-diyl-co-benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) 1:1 blend mixtures. The images show distinct phase segregation within the nanoparticles. The compositional data reveals that, within these nanoparticles, PFB and F8BT segregate into a core-shell morphology, with an F8BT-rich core and a PFB-rich shell. Structural modelling demonstrates that the STXM technique is capable of quantifying morphological features on a sub-10 nm length scale; below the spot size of the incident focused x-ray beam. These results have important implications for the development of water-based 'solar paints' fabricated from microemulsions of semiconducting polymers.

  12. Scanning transmission x-ray microscopy of polymer nanoparticles: probing morphology on sub-10 nm length scales

    Science.gov (United States)

    Burke, Kerry B.; Stapleton, Andrew J.; Vaughan, Ben; Zhou, Xiaojing; Kilcoyne, A. L. David; Belcher, Warwick J.; Dastoor, Paul C.

    2011-07-01

    Water-processable nanoparticle dispersions of semiconducting polymers offer an attractive approach to the fabrication of organic electronic devices since they offer: (1) control of nanoscale morphology and (2) environmentally friendly fabrication. Although the nature of phase segregation in these polymer nanoparticles is critical to device performance, to date there have been no techniques available to directly determine their intra-particle structure, which consequently has been poorly understood. Here, we present scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM) compositional maps for nanoparticles fabricated from poly(9,9-dioctyl-fluorene-2,7-diyl-co-bis-N, N'-(4-butylphenyl)-bis-N, N'-phenyl-1,4-phenylenedi-amine) (PFB) and poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-2,7-diyl-co-benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) 1:1 blend mixtures. The images show distinct phase segregation within the nanoparticles. The compositional data reveals that, within these nanoparticles, PFB and F8BT segregate into a core-shell morphology, with an F8BT-rich core and a PFB-rich shell. Structural modelling demonstrates that the STXM technique is capable of quantifying morphological features on a sub-10 nm length scale; below the spot size of the incident focused x-ray beam. These results have important implications for the development of water-based 'solar paints' fabricated from microemulsions of semiconducting polymers.

  13. Scanning transmission x-ray microscopy of polymer nanoparticles: probing morphology on sub-10 nm length scales

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Burke, Kerry B; Stapleton, Andrew J; Vaughan, Ben; Zhou Xiaojing; Belcher, Warwick J; Dastoor, Paul C; Kilcoyne, A L David

    2011-01-01

    Water-processable nanoparticle dispersions of semiconducting polymers offer an attractive approach to the fabrication of organic electronic devices since they offer: (1) control of nanoscale morphology and (2) environmentally friendly fabrication. Although the nature of phase segregation in these polymer nanoparticles is critical to device performance, to date there have been no techniques available to directly determine their intra-particle structure, which consequently has been poorly understood. Here, we present scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM) compositional maps for nanoparticles fabricated from poly(9,9-dioctyl-fluorene-2,7-diyl-co-bis-N, N ' -(4-butylphenyl)-bis-N, N ' -phenyl-1,4-phenylenedi-amine) (PFB) and poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-2,7-diyl-co-benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) 1:1 blend mixtures. The images show distinct phase segregation within the nanoparticles. The compositional data reveals that, within these nanoparticles, PFB and F8BT segregate into a core-shell morphology, with an F8BT-rich core and a PFB-rich shell. Structural modelling demonstrates that the STXM technique is capable of quantifying morphological features on a sub-10 nm length scale; below the spot size of the incident focused x-ray beam. These results have important implications for the development of water-based 'solar paints' fabricated from microemulsions of semiconducting polymers.

  14. Porous metal oxide particles and their methods of synthesis

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Fanglin; Liu, Qiang

    2013-03-12

    Methods are generally disclosed for synthesis of porous particles from a solution formed from a leaving agent, a surfactant, and a soluble metal salt in a solvent. The surfactant congregates to form a nanoparticle core such that the metal salt forms about the nanoparticle core to form a plurality of nanoparticles. The solution is heated such that the leaving agent forms gas bubbles in the solution, and the plurality of nanoparticles congregate about the gas bubbles to form a porous particle. The porous particles are also generally disclosed and can include a particle shell formed about a core to define an average diameter from about 0.5 .mu.m to about 50 .mu.m. The particle shell can be formed from a plurality of nanoparticles having an average diameter of from about 1 nm to about 50 nm and defined by a metal salt formed about a surfactant core.

  15. Structural analysis, optical and dielectric function of [Ba{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}](Ti{sub 0.9}Zr{sub 0.1})O{sub 3} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Herrera-Pérez, G., E-mail: guillermo.herrera@cimav.edu.mx, E-mail: damasio.morales@cimav.edu.mx [Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados (CIMAV), S. C. Miguel de Cervantes 120, Chihuahua 31136, Chihuahua (Mexico); Physics of Materials Department, Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados (CIMAV), S. C. Miguel de Cervantes 120, Chihuahua 31136, Chihuahua (Mexico); Morales, D., E-mail: guillermo.herrera@cimav.edu.mx, E-mail: damasio.morales@cimav.edu.mx; Paraguay-Delgado, F.; Reyes-Rojas, A.; Fuentes-Cobas, L. E. [Physics of Materials Department, Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados (CIMAV), S. C. Miguel de Cervantes 120, Chihuahua 31136, Chihuahua (Mexico); Borja-Urby, R. [Centro de Nanociencias Micro y Nanotecnologías, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, 07300 México City (Mexico)

    2016-09-07

    This work presents the identification of inter-band transitions in the imaginary part of the dielectric function (ε{sub 2}) derived from the Kramers–Kronig analysis for [Ba{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}](Ti{sub 0.9}Zr{sub 0.1})O{sub 3} (BCZT) nanocrystals synthesized by the modified Pechini method. The analysis started with the chemical identification of the atoms that conform BCZT in the valence loss energy region of a high energy-resolution of electron energy loss spectroscopy. The indirect band energy (E{sub g}) was determined in the dielectric response function. This result is in agreement with the UV-Vis technique, and it obtained an optical band gap of 3.16 eV. The surface and volume plasmon peaks were observed at 13.1 eV and 26.2 eV, respectively. The X-ray diffraction pattern and the Rietveld refinement data of powders heat treated at 700 °C for 1 h suggest a tetragonal structure with a space group (P4 mm) with the average crystal size of 35 nm. The average particle size was determined by transmission electron microscopy.

  16. Synthesis of KMgCl{sub 3} nanomaterial and luminescence of Ce{sup 3+}/Dy{sup 3+}/Eu{sup 3+} by different routes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Poddar, Anuradha [Department of Physics, Sindhu Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur 440017 (India); Gedam, S.C., E-mail: gedam_sc@rediffmail.com [Department of Physics, K.Z.S. Science College, Kalmeshwar, Nagpur 441501 (India); Dhoble, S.J. [Department of Physics, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033 (India)

    2015-02-15

    The present KMgCl{sub 3} phosphor has been synthesized through wet chemical synthesis (WCS), solid state diffusion (SSD) and Hispersed centrifuge (HC) routes in the same atmospheric conditions and characterized for luminescence properties. XRDs of the sample prepared by all three methods have been placed at the same position, phase and matched well with standard data. The particle size of 20 nm of KMgCl{sub 3} by a Hispersed centrifuged method was detected using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The PL emission spectra have been observed for Ce{sup 3+} at 353 nm and 375 nm due to 5d→4f transition, whereas luminescence of Dy{sup 3+} efficiently observed at 484 nm and 579 nm for an excitation of 384 nm due to {sup 4}F{sub 9/2}→ {sup 6}H{sub 15/2} and {sup 6}H{sub 13/2} (blue–yellow region) transition and Eu{sup 3+} is peaking at 596 nm and 616 nm (λ{sub ex}=394 nm) due to level {sup 5}D{sub 0} to {sup 7}F{sub j} (j=0, 1, 2, and 3) radiative transitions. The presented phosphors are excited in the range of 300–400 nm which is mercury free excited range. Synthesis and photoluminescence spectra of trivalent Ce, Dy or Eu rare-earths in KMgCl{sub 3} are described for all three routes, for the first time in the present work. The CIE chromaticity coordinates were also calculated for KMgCl{sub 3}:X (Ce{sup 3+}, Dy{sup 3+} and Eu{sup 3+}) phosphors, which are close to the NTSC standard values. KMgCl{sub 3} matrix is not only suitable for different and easy synthesis but efficient luminescence also. The paper discuses the XRD, crystallinity (morphology) and luminescence of Ce, Dy or Eu rare-earths in KMgCl{sub 3} synthesized by three (WCS, SSD and HC) different routes. - Highlights: • The particle size 20 nm of KMgCl{sub 3} was detected by Hispersed centrifuged method using TEM. • The phosphors are prepared by very simple WCM, SSD and HS technique. • An efficient luminescence is observed in KMgCl{sub 3}:X (X=Ce{sup 3+}, Dy{sup 3+} and Eu{sup 3

  17. Statistical approach of synthesize CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles to optimize their characteristics using response surface methodology

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shams, S. Fatemeh, E-mail: f.shams@fz-juelich.de [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Peter Grünberg Institute (PGI-6), Jülich Research Centre, 52425 Jülich (Germany); Kashefi, Mehrdad, E-mail: m-kashefi@um.ac.ir [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Schmitz-Antoniak, Carolin [Peter Grünberg Institute (PGI-6), Jülich Research Centre, 52425 Jülich (Germany)

    2017-06-15

    Highlights: • The CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by coprecipitation method. • By RSM technique, some predicted models were presented for particles size. • Temperature, pH and their interactions had most effectiveness on the particles size. • The reduction agent type can effect on the size properties. • The mixing order of components can effect on the size properties. - Abstract: The performance of magnetic nanoparticles in different applications is severely depended on their size characteristics, so the study of effective parameters on these properties can play significant roles in qualifications of nanoparticles. In present work, some important factors on size features of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} superparamagnetic nanoparticles include the mixing order of synthesis components, the utilized reduction agents, stabilization process, and chelating mechanisms were investigated. Moreover, in order to optimize several influential factors such as the temperature, pH, and cation ratio of reaction, the experimental design was done by using central composite design method of response surface methodology. The simultaneous effects on the particles size and their size distribution were investigated by different methods i.e. dynamic light scattering, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform inferred spectroscopy, vibration sample magnetometer, and transmission electron microscopy. Results demonstrated the mixing order of reduction agent to salt solution and also the employing of NH{sub 4}OH as a reduction agent could cause to significant decreasing of particles size and size distribution. Furthermore, the nitric acid could stabilize and chelate nanoparticles more appropriate than citric acid. Based on the optimization results, the quadratic polynomial models were fitted on the responses which could predict their amounts, while temperature, pH, and their interactions had higher effectiveness. In addition, the optimum amounts of particle size (14

  18. Parametric investigations on the influence of nano-second Nd{sup 3+}:YAG laser wavelength and fluence in synthesizing NiTi nano-particles using liquid assisted laser ablation technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Patra, Nandini, E-mail: nandinipatra2007@gmail.com [Centre for Material Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Pin-453441 (India); Akash, K.; Shiva, S.; Gagrani, Rohit; Rao, H. Sai Pranesh; Anirudh, V.R. [Mechatronics and Instrumentation lab, Discipline of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Pin-453441 (India); Palani, I.A., E-mail: palaniia@iiti.ac.in [Centre for Material Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Pin-453441 (India); Mechatronics and Instrumentation lab, Discipline of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Pin-453441 (India); Singh, Vipul [Centre for Material Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Pin-453441 (India)

    2016-03-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Influence of laser wavelengths (1064 nm, 532 nm and 355 nm) and fluences (40 J/cm{sup 2}, 30 J/cm{sup 2} and 20 J/cm{sup 2}) on generation of underwater laser ablated NiTi nanoparticles. • Particle size range of 140–10 nm was generated at varying laser wavelengths. • The alloy formation of NiTi nanoparticles was confirmed from XRD and TEM analysis where the crystalline peaks of NiTi, Ni{sub 4}Ti{sub 3} and Ni{sub 3}Ti were observed from XRD. • Formation efficiency of NiTi nanoparticles was maximum at 1064 nm wavelength and 40 J/cm{sup 2} fluence. - Abstract: This paper investigates the influence of laser wavelengths and laser fluences on the size and quality of the NiTi nanoparticles, generated through underwater solid state Nd:YAG laser ablation technique. The experiments were performed on Ni55%–Ti45% sheet to synthesize NiTi nano-particles at three different wavelengths (1064 nm, 532 nm and 355 nm) with varying laser fluences ranging from 20 to 40 J/cm{sup 2}. Synthesized NiTi nano-particles were characterized through SEM, DLS, XRD, FT-IR, TEM and UV–vis spectrum. It was observed that, maximum particle size of 140 nm and minimum particle size of 10 nm were generated at varying laser wavelengths. The crystallinity and lattice spacing of NiTi alloy nanoparticles were confirmed from the XRD analysis and TEM images, respectively.

  19. Synthesis, magnetic and dielectric characterization of nanocrystalline solid solutions of In{sub 2−x}Ni{sub x}O{sub 3} (x = 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ahmad, Tokeer, E-mail: tahmad3@jmi.ac.in [Nanochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025 (India); Khatoon, Sarvari [Nanochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025 (India); Coolahan, Kelsey [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, NJ 08028 (United States)

    2013-09-01

    Graphical abstract: Monophasic and crystalline In{sub 2−x}Ni{sub x}O{sub 3} nanoparticles of size 8–15 nm have been synthesized solvothermally and showed red shift in energy band gap which decreases on increasing Ni{sup 2+} concentration in In{sub 2}O{sub 3} host lattice. - Highlights: • Monophasic Ni-doped In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles by solvothermal method for first time. • Plausible reaction mechanism using thermogravimetric analysis. • High surface area with small particle size obtained. • Solid solutions exhibit paramagnetism with very weak antiferromagnetic interactions. - Abstract: In{sub 2−x}Ni{sub x}O{sub 3} (x = 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by solvothermal method by the thermal decomposition of oxalate precursor at 450 °C for the first time. X-ray diffraction studies showed the formation of highly crystalline and monophasic cubic structure of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} which is attributed to the formation of solid solution. These nanoparticles show good optical transmittance in the visible region. Optical measurements showed an energy band gap which decreases with increasing Ni concentration. The grain size decreases from 15 nm to 8 nm and surface area increases from 90 to 254 m{sup 2} g{sup −1} on increasing the Ni concentration. High dielectric constant and dielectric loss has been obtained which indicates the conducting nature of these solid solutions. Magnetic measurements showed that the samples are strong paramagnetic in nature with very weak antiferromagnetic interactions. No evidence of ferromagnetism is observed for these solid solutions at room temperature.

  20. On-chip nanostructuring and impedance trimming of transparent and flexible ITO electrodes by laser induced coherent sub-20 nm cuts

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Afshar, Maziar, E-mail: m.afshar@lmm.uni-saarland.de [Lab for Micromechanics, Microfluidics, and Microactuators, Saarland University, Saarbrücken D-66123 (Germany); Leber, Moritz [Lab for Micromechanics, Microfluidics, and Microactuators, Saarland University, Saarbrücken D-66123 (Germany); Poppendieck, Wigand [Department of Medical Engineering & Neuroprosthetics, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering, St. Ingbert D-66386 (Germany); König, Karsten [Lab for Biophotonics and Laser Technology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken D-66123 (Germany); Seidel, Helmut; Feili, Dara [Lab for Micromechanics, Microfluidics, and Microactuators, Saarland University, Saarbrücken D-66123 (Germany)

    2016-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • A novel method to make sub-20 nm nanopatterning in ITO thin films by laser writing. • A novel way to functionalize ITO bio-electrodes to yield near-field polarizing feature. • A basic characterization of ITO electrodes was performed by impedance spectroscopy. • Presentation of simulations and possible theoretical approaches to explain the results. - Abstract: In this work, the effect of laser-induced nanostructuring of transparent indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes on flexible glass is investigated. Multi-electrode arrays (MEA) for electrical and optical characterization of biological cells were fabricated using standard MEMS technologies. Optimal sputter parameters concerning oxygen flow, sputter power and ambient pressure for ITO layers with both good optical and electrical properties were determined. Afterwards, coherent sub-20 nm wide and 150 nm deep nanocuts of many micrometers in length were generated within the ITO electrodes by a sub-15 femtosecond (fs) pulsed laser. The influence of laser processing on the electrical and optical properties of electrodes was investigated. The electrochemical impedance of the manufactured electrodes was measured before and after laser modification using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. A small reduction in electrode impedance was observed. These nanostructured electrodes show also polarizing effects by the visible spectrum.