bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Stability of Nanostructured Coatings
Authors: Fabrizi A. , Cabibbo Marcello , Cecchini R. , Spigarelli S. , Paternoster C. , Haidopoulo Marie , Kiryukhantsev-Korneev P.V.
Published: June 2010

This paper is a review of the thermal stability of nanostructured nitride coatings synthesised by reactive magnetron sputtering technique. In the last three decade, nitride based coatings have been widely applied as hard wear-protective coatings in mechanical components. More recently, a larger interest has been addressed to evaluate the thermal stability of such coatings, as their mechanical and tribological properties are deteriorated at high working temperatures. This study describes the microstructural, mechanical and compositional stability of nano-crystalline Cr-N and nano-composited Ti-N based coatings (Ti-Al-Si-B-N and Ti-Cr-B-N) after air and vacuum annealing. For Cr-N coatings annealing in vacuum induces phase transformation from CrN to Cr2N, while after annealing in air only Cr2O3 phase is present. For Ti-N based coatings, a well-definite multilayered structure was shown after air annealing. Degradation of mechanical properties was observed for all the nitride coatings after thermal annealing in air.
Thermodynamic Phase Transitions in Nanometer-Sized Metallic Systems
Authors: Delogu Francesco
Published: June 2010

The present chapter deals with the characterization and description of phase transitions in metallic systems with characteristic size down to the nanometer range. In particular, the chapter focuses on the solid-to-liquid transition in nanometer-sized particles. After a short introduction to classical thermodynamics and to the way it copes with the general properties exhibited by nanometer-sized systems, a rapid overview of the state of the art in the field of the solid-to-liquid transition is given. The heterogeneous melting processes taking place in mesoscopic systems are discussed in terms of both classical thermodynamic and numerical simulation approaches. In the former case, attention is focused on the case of mesoscopic Sn particles, for which a relatively large amount of consistent experimental data exists as a consequence of previous calorimetric studies. In the latter case, the behavior of mesoscopic Cu particles is discussed.
Prediction of Phase Diagrams in Nano-Sized Binary Alloys
Authors: Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: June 2010

The authors have evaluated the surface properties as well as phase diagrams of alloys on the basis of thermodynamic databases. Extending these techniques, we developed a new system to estimate phase equilibria of metals and alloys in small particle systems. The present paper describes our trial to evaluate the phase diagrams of binary alloys in nano-sized particle systems through thermodynamic databases.
Optimization of Ormosil Glasses for Luminescence Based Dissolved Oxygen Sensors
Authors: Palmeira J. , Lopes L. , Silva A.J. , Jorge P.A.S. , Oliva A.
Published: June 2010

In the recent years, sol-gel films have been intensively used in optical sensors configurations. Due to its hydrophobic nature, ormosil films have been reported to be a promising supporting matrix for oxygen sensing dyes for measurements in aqueous media. In this work, the impact of the sol-gel host fabrication parameters in the characteristics of the resulting oxygen sensing membranes is thoroughly evaluated. Different combinations of organic-inorganic precursors, with different aging times, were tested as oxygen sensors. All the solution were doped with ruthenium complex Ru(II)-tris(4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) to introduce oxygen sensitivity. Thin films were produced by dip coating of glass slides. The oxygen sensitive films were tested in aqueous phase in equilibrium with different oxygen gas compositions, using a phase-modulation technique. Sensor performance parameters such as Stern-Volmer constant, quenching efficiency and lifetime response are reported. The data obtained clearly indicates that increased aging times and longer organic groups produce sensors with the highest sensitivity to dissolved oxygen. From all sol-gel films produced, the BTEOS:TEOS (1:1) mixture is the most promising for sensor construction.
Optical Analysis of RE3+: Boro-Fluoro-Phosphate Glasses
Authors: Sudhakar Reddy B. , Buddhudu S.
Published: June 2010

We report here on the preparation and optical characterization of certain rare earth (Nd3+,Tb3+,Pr3+ &Tm3+ each in 0.2 mol %) ions doped in two new series glasses in the following composition:
Series A: 69.8 B2O3 – 10 P2O5 – 10(ZnO/CdO/TeO2) – 10 AlF3
Series B: 69.8 B2O3 – 10 P2O5 – 10(ZnO/CdO/TeO2) – 10 LiF
By applying the Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters of Nd3+: BFP glasses, radiative properties of the emission transitions ( 4F3/2 ®4IJ=9/2, 11/2 &13/2 ) at 906, 1079 and 1349nm have been evaluated. By applying the Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters, radiative properties for Er3+ ions doped glasses, the NIR emission (4I13/2 4I15/2 ) at 1547nm , and also visible green emission (4S3/2 4I15/2 ) at 547nm have been evaluated. Measured absorption spectra of Pr3+: BFP glasses have shown eight absorption bands at 443, 469, 481, 589 , 1008, 1419, 1523 and 1930 nm which correspond to the transitions 3H4 ®3P2, 3P1, 3P0, 1D2, 1G4,3F4, 3F3 and 3F2 respectively. Absorption spectra of Tm3+: glasses have revealed five absorption bands at 466, 685, 790, 1206 and 1644 nm which corresponding to the transitions 3H6®1G4, 3F3, 3H4, 3H5 and 3F4 respectively. Pr3+: glasses, with an excitation at 442nm (3H4 ®3P2), a orange-red emission at 600 nm (1D2® 3H4) has been observed. In the case of Tm3+: glasses, upon excitation with 355nm (3H6®1D2), blue emissions at 452 nm (1D2®3F4) and at 476 nm (1G4®3H6) are observed. From the measured NIR emission spectra of Pr3+: BFP glasses, an NIR emission at 1354nm (1G4®3H5) and form Tm3+: glasses, an NIR emission (3F4®3H6) at 1809 nm are observed with an Ar+ laser (514.5 nm) as the excitation source.
Study of Structure and Li+ Ions Dynamics in Presence of Fe2O3 in Bi2O3∙B2O3 Glasses
Authors: Rani S. , Sanghi S. , Agarwal A. , Kishore N.
Published: June 2010

Glasses having composition xLi2O∙(30-x)Fe2O3∙20Bi2O3∙50B2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 30, in mol%) have been prepared using normal melt-quench technique. The variation in density and molar volume with composition has been investigated in terms of the structural modification that takes place in the glass matrix on decreasing Fe2O3. Infrared spectra of these glasses were recorded over continuous spectral range (400-4000 cm-1) in an attempt to study their structure systematically. IR spectra show that with increase in Li2O/Fe2O3 ratio there is formation of more structural units (e.g. [FeO4/2]-Li+) in the glass network. Bi3+ cations are present as [BiO6] octahedral units and acts as modifier in this glass system. Further, the effect of transition metal ions (iron) on the dynamics of lithium bismuth borate glasses has been studied in the frequency range of 20 Hz - 1 MHz and in the temperature range 240 – 350 °C using impedance spectroscopy. Possible conduction mechanisms are discussed. Various AC and DC electrical and dielectric parameters have been calculated and analyzed. The results show that the contribution of electronic conduction towards conductivity decreases with decreasing iron concentration, which is understood to be due to hopping of electrons from Fe2+→Fe3+. The frequency dependent conductivity has been studied using both conductivity and modulus formalism. The absence of maximum observed in dielectric permittivity in the temperature and frequency range studied, indicate the non-ferroelectric behavior of the glasses.
Surface Science Approach to Photochemistry of TiO2
Authors: Sasahara Akira , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: June 2010

Surface science studies of photochemistry on titanium dioxide (TiO2) were reviewed. In the studies, photochemical processes were investigated in relation to atomic-scale surface structures by applying surface-sensitive analytical methods to single crystal TiO2 surfaces with well-defined structures. It is demonstrated that a surface science approach is promising for full description of the photochemical processes on TiO2.
Composite Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysts and the "Adsorb & Shuttle" Approach: A Review
Authors: Paz Yaron
Published: June 2010

Composite photocatalysts, made of titanium dioxide and high surface area adsorbents become more and more common. To large extent, this is due to the phenomenon of "Adsorb & Shuttle", i.e. the adsorption of molecules on the inert, adsorptive, domains, followed by diffusion to the photocatalytic domains. This manuscript reviews the published literature on composite photocatalysts, and analyzes the various aspects affecting their performance. One of these aspects is the enhancement of the degradation rate of pollutants, which is governed by a variety of factors including surface area, adsorpticity, strength of interaction, the loading of photocatalyst in the composite, and operation parameters (such as temperature, humidity and pH). Other aspects include a reduction in the emission of intermediate products and a different distribution of end-products. Care was taken to describe the possibility of using the inert adsorptive domains to enhance the degradation of specific species, as well as to discuss the effect of composite photocatalysts on deactivation phenomena, and the interrelation between "Adsorb & Shuttle" phenomena and out- diffusion of oxidizing species from the TiO2 domains, known as the "remote degradation" phenomenon.
X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of Anatase-TiO2 Coated Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Georgios Pyrgiotakis , Wolfgang Sigmund M.
Published: June 2010

A high efficiency nanocomposite photocatalyst is reported. Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were coated with titania. Two distinct types of nanocomposites were synthesized with variation in the synthetic procedure. One of the nanocomposites is based on a core of arc-discharge synthesized multiwall carbon nanotubes; whereas the other is based on a core of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown MWNTs. The nanocomposites have a similar appearance in transmission electron microscopy pictures in that they have a core of MWNTs that are chemically bonded to a few nanometer thick layer of pure anatase phase of titania. Yet they show a dramatically different photocatalytic behavior when they are compared on the basis of rates of photocatalytic decomposition of an organic dye in aqueous media following the Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism. This article focuses on the analysis of the differences in the nanocomposites using X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). XPS spectra of these materials indicate that there are distinct differences. However, they also show that both share C-O-Ti bonds that transform the carbon in the carbon nanotubes into a dopant for the anatase titania. This doping seems to be essential for long wavelength, i.e. visible light induced photocatalysis.
Structure-Reactivity Relationships of Anatase and Rutile TiO2 Nanocrystals Measured by In Situ Vibrational Spectroscopy
Authors: Österlund Lars
Published: June 2010

A comprehensive analysis of structural-reactivity relations on TiO2 nanocrystals is presented. Using an interplay between TEM, X-ray diffraction and vibrational spectroscopy of well-defined anatase and rutile TiO2 nanocrystals correlations between the adsorbate structure of formic acid and the corresponding photo-induced decomposition rate are described. It is demonstrated that the detailed bonding configuration determines the decomposition rate. Generalizations and implications of the findings are discussed.
Controlled Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanostructures
Authors: Stride John A. , Tuong Nam T.
Published: June 2010

Recent interest in nanostructured titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been driven by the excellent photocatalytic and optical properties exhibited by the anatase and rutile phases. This article highlights the relationship between reaction conditions and the resultant nanostructured TiO2 and is primarily focused on wet chemical synthetic methods. We show that solvothermal syntheses of nano-TiO2 can be rationalised by making use of a diffusion-controlled model accounting for physical properties of the solvent such as the vapour-pressure, allowing the prediction and control the phase, size and type of nanostructured TiO2 product. This external control makes it possible for the systematic synthesis of TiO2 nanostructures via parameters such as the solvent chain length, the reaction temperature and time, and also by the addition of surfactants, providing the ability to design and tailor the nanostructured TiO2, which is vital for the optimal application of these nanostructures in photocatalytic or optical applications.
Development of Visible-Light-Driven TiO2 and SrTiO3 Photocatalysts Doped with Metal Cations for H2 or O2 Evolution
Authors: Niishiro Ryo , Kudo Akihiko
Published: June 2010

This review paper represents photocatalytic properties of metal cation-doped TiO2 (rutile) and SrTiO3 photocatalysts for O2 evolution from an aqueous silver nitrate solution and H2 evolution from an aqueous methanol solution under visible light irradiation. Photocatalytic activities for the O2 evolution of Cr/Sb and Rh/Sb-codoped TiO2 are strongly dependent on the codoping ratio and the amount of doped chromium and rhodium. The codopant controls the oxidation number of doped chromium and rhodium. Rh-doped SrTiO3 in which the doped Rh species possesses a reversible redox property is active for the H2 evolution reaction under visible light irradiation. Overall water splitting under visible light irradiation proceeds with Z-scheme photocatalyst systems consisting of the Rh-doped SrTiO3 as a H2 evolution photocatalyst combined with BiVO4 as an O2 evolution photocatalyst and an Fe3+/Fe2+ electron mediator.
Surface Modified Titania Visible Light Photocatalyst Powders
Authors: Mitoraj Dariusz , Kisch Horst
Published: June 2010

Titanium dioxide has received great attention both in fundamental and applied photocatalysis due to its low cost, non-toxicity, and stability against photocorrosion [ - ]. Unfortunately it can utilize only the very small UV part (about 3%) of solar light arriving at the earth surface. However, also the visible part (λ > 400 nm) may induce photocatalysis if titania is modified by transition or main group elements. Accordingly, many publications appeared in the last 20 years dealing with the problem of sensitizing titania for visible light photooxidation reactions. This may be achieved by doping, which means substitution of lattice ions, and by surface modification. In many cases authors not clearly differentiate between these two possibilities and so called doped titania quite often is a surface modified material. The latter is easily prepared by heating titania or its precursor compounds like titanium hydroxide in the presence of a modifier at temperatures in the range of 100 – 500 °C. In the following we summarize our work in this field using inorganic and organic sensitizers.
Tayloring the Photocatalytical Activity of Anatase TiO2 Thin Film Electrodes by Three-Dimensional Mesoporosity
Authors: Neumann Bernhard , Brezesinsky Thorsten , Smarsly Bernd , Tributsch Helmut
Published: June 2010

Mesoporous titanium dioxide (m-TiO2) thin film electrodes were synthesized by evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA), utilizing a novel type of amphiphilic block copolymer as template. The ordered network of pores shows an accessible inner volume that results in a huge BET-surface and a distinct transparency. According to X-ray diffraction analyses the mesoporous films are highly crystalline after calcination at 550°C. 1D and 2D small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy investigations prove the high quality of the mesopore texture over micrometer-sized areas. These well-defined, crystalline m-TiO2 films show an increased photoactivity for overall water splitting and oxidation of formic acid as compared to porous films prepared in the same manner without a template. The performance of the electrodes was analyzed by measuring the photocurrent and the mass signal of liberated gas by electrochemical mass spectroscopy (EMS). These experiments reveal that film morphology have a great influence to the I-V characteristic of photoelectrodes. An appropriate crystallization temperature is indispensable to obtain an optimum between crystallinity, morphology and photoactivity and to prevent collapse of the mesopore architecture.
The Main Strategies and Tools in EXPO2009
Authors: Altomare Angela , Cuocci Corrado , Giacovazzo Carmelo , Moliterni Anna Grazia Giuseppina , Rizzi Rosanna
Published: June 2010

EXPO2009 [1], the updated version of EXPO2004 [2], performs all the steps for the ab-initio crystal structure solution by powder diffraction data in a completely automatic way: unit cell determination, space group identification, decomposition of the experimental pattern into single integrated intensities, structure solution by traditional (Direct/Patterson) or direct space/hybrid approaches, structure refinement by Rietveld techniques [3]. New procedures have been introduced in EXPO2009 to strengthen its phasing ability, especially for organic compounds and for low resolution data, for which traditional approaches may fail.
Structure of Low Temperature Nitrided/Oxidized Layer Formed on NiTi Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Lelątko Józef , Goryczka Tomasz , Wierzchoń Tadeusz , Ossowski M. , Łosiewicz Bozena , Rówiński Edward , Morawiec Henryk
Published: June 2010

Structure of the nitride-oxide surface layers, formed using glow discharge technique at low temperature (between 200 and 380°C) changing the parameters of the process, was examined applying X-ray diffraction as well as transmission electron microscopy. The phase analysis was supported by results obtained from XPS measurement. Obtained results have shown that low temperature nitriding/oxiding produced the thin layers (18 ÷ 30 nm in thickness), which consist of titanium nitride and oxide phase. Low amount of the nickel-titanium oxide was also identified in the layer produced at higher temperature. Decrease of nitriding/oxidizing temperature below 300oC cause that between nitride-oxide surface layer and NiTi alloy did not create the intermediate layer of Ni3Ti phase. The results were verified and confirmed by observation carried out using high resolution electron microscopy. The corrosion properties of such coatings were tested in the physiological Tyrod’s solution using the cyclic potentiodynamic polarization method.
Texture and Mechanical Properties of Electrodeposited Copper Thin Films
Authors: Bunsch Adam , Skrzypek S.J. , Kowalska J. , Ratuszek Wiktoria , Rakowski W.
Published: June 2010

Influence of the electrodepositing parameters e.g. applied electric current as variable on texture formation and on mechanical properties of copper thin films was studied. Experiment was done for copper deposition from sulphate bath under galvanostatic and pulse current. It was found that copper layers exhibits different texture depending on applied current conditions during electrodepositing process. Pulse and direct current conditions leads to different texture of electrodeposited copper. Texture of electrodeposited copper coatings and mechanical properties could be correlated. It was found that, texture indexes although are not complex information about texture could be used for analysis of such correlation in technological process.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Structure and Phase Transformation of Rare Earth (Gd) Zirconate
Authors: Moskal Grzegorz , Dercz Grzegorz
Published: June 2010

In the present work, zirconium gadolinium oxide (Gd2Zr2O7) ceramics were prepared by annealing in different conditions and with APS (air plasma sprayed) techniques for thermal barrier coating (TBC) application. Thermal properties, phase transformation, crystal structure and cross-sectional morphologies of these materials were investigated. The thermal behaviour of the material was investigated from room temperature to 1500°C using the differential thermal analysis (DTA). The X-ray diffraction methods were used for the qualitative phase analysis. The structure of the studied samples has been characterized by employing powerful Rietveld’s whole X-ray profile fitting technique using the DBWS 9807a program. The SEM and EDS techniques were used to in the ceramic samples morphology analysis and for their chemical composition, respectively. The research showed that further stages of annealing result in the phase transformation of the parent substances and the main phase Gd2Zr2O7. It was found out that complete phase transformation into Gd2Zr2O7 phase takes place only for the air plasma sprayed sample. The analysis of the morphology of the initial powder revealed the spherical shape of the powder particles, which have a porous internal structure.
Rietveld Quantitative and Structural Analysis of the Al-W Master Alloy for Silumina Modification
Authors: Dercz Grzegorz , Piątkowski Jaroslaw
Published: June 2010

In the present work on Al-W master alloy for modification of silumina casting alloy was studied. This alloy was characterized by XRD analysis and SEM/EDX methods. The XRD investigations of Al-W sample enabled the identification of Al, Al4W, Al5W phases. The contents of Al4W and Al5W phases are similar and equal 7.6 wt.% and 7.8 wt.%, respectively. SEM and EDS show the microstructure diversification and the shape of Al4W (cubic) and Al5W (oblong) particles in Al-matrix.
Crystallite Size Determination of MgO Nanopowder from X-Ray Diffraction Patterns Registered in GIXD Technique
Authors: Goryczka Tomasz , Dercz Grzegorz , Prusik Krystian , Pająk Lucjan , Łągiewka Eugeniusz
Published: June 2010

The problem of the crystallite size determination for nanomaterials from X-ray diffraction data obtained in asymmetrical GIXD geometry was analyzed. The studies were performed on nanocrystalline MgO powder prepared by sol-gel synthesis. The nanopowder was preliminary characterized from X-ray diffraction pattern registered in classical Bragg-Brentano geometry and electron microscope observation. The estimated crystallite size, calculated form Williamson-Hall method, equals to 5 nm whereas the lattice distortion is negligible (0.1%). The X-ray diffraction patterns were registered in 30-135º 2θ range using tunnel GIXD technique for the incident α angle: 0.25; 0.5; 1; 2.5 and 5 degrees, respectively. Additional broadening of diffraction lines originated from applied geometry was observed. The calculated crystallite size deviate significantly in comparison to results obtained from classical Bragg-Brentano data. Corrections for additional line broadening were determined, which should be applied for accurate crystallite size calculation in studies of thin nanocrystalline layers using GIXD technique.
On the Modelling of Diffraction Line Profiles from Nanocrystalline Materials
Authors: Scardi Paolo , Leoni Matteo , Dodoo-Arhin D.
Published: June 2010

Recent advances in Line Profile Analysis of powder diffraction patterns must be paralleled by increasing attention to the quality and quantity of experimental data. The analysis of simulated data with different noise levels demonstrates the importance of statistical quality to reveal fine details of interest in the analysis of nanocrystalline materials, like the crystallite shape. It is also shown how synchrotron radiation diffraction can improve data quality with respect to laboratory measurements, both in terms of statistical quality and in terms of accessible information.
Phase Transformations in Mo-Re Alloys Produced by Pressure Sintering
Authors: Osadnik Małgorzata , Staszewski Mariusz , Czepelak Marian
Published: June 2010

The structure of the Mo-Re alloys containing 30-85 mass % Mo, obtained from the powders of pure metals by pressure sintering, was investigated. Conditions for the formation of the and  phases, which deteriorate properties of these alloys, have been determined.
An Effect of the Composition and Fabrication Method on the Structure of the Compounds with Skutterudite Lattice
Authors: Wrona Adriana , Staszewski Mariusz , Czepelak Marian
Published: June 2010

The intermetallic compounds with a skuttedrudite structure were prepared by powder metallurgy methods including mechanical synthesis and pressure sintering. The obtained powders were subjected to milling so as to obtain powders of a nanocrystalline structure. In this work results of phase analysis carried out at particular stages of powders fabrication are presented and the changes in parameters of their crystalline structure are analysed, including the arrangement of X-type atoms within their crystalline lattice which was studied by the Rietveld method.
X-Ray Investigations and Magnetic Properties of CuCr2-xSnxSe4 - Compounds
Authors: Jendrzejewska Izabela , Zajdel Paweł , Mroziński Jerzy , Maciążek Ewa , Goryczka Tomasz , Hanc Aneta , Kita Andrzej
Published: June 2010

We have observed that doping CuCr2Se4 with tin introduces and then increases the tetrahedral deformation of the spinel structure, which can be connected with the Jahn-Teller (JT) distortion due to Cr2+ ions in antiprismatic environment. The presence of Cr2+ is corroborated by the increase of the saturation magnetization above the 6μB value expected for the 2 Cr3+ ions. In the high limit of the high Sn doping the deformation is decreased, which we attribute to elimination of the JT condition by the increased local distortions. With the tin doping the magnetic structure evolves from the ferromagnet, through spin-glass like to the antiferromagnetic due to increased AF coupling in the system. This is corroborated by the decreasing transition temperature and the Curie-Weiss parameter.
X-Ray Analysis of the New Ferrites CuCr2-xFexSe4
Authors: Maciążek Ewa , Dercz Grzegorz , Jendrzejewska Izabela , Goryczka Tomasz , Sitko Rafał
Published: June 2010

The series of ferrites CuCr2-xFexSe4 (x=0.10.5) were obtained as polycrystalline compounds using conventional ceramics sintering method. The stoichiometric amounts of spectrally pure elements were used for synthesis. The phase and structure determination was done using X-ray analysis. The Rietveld method was applied for structure refinement. It occurred that all samples were multi-phase, the main content crystallized in cubic, normal spinel structure.
The X-Ray Analysis and Mössbauer Studies Mn-V-Sn Alloys
Authors: Hanc Aneta , Dercz Grzegorz , Jendrzejewska Izabela
Published: June 2010

The aim of the work is to search possibility for preparation of the Mn2VSn and V2MnSn Heusler-type compounds. We have carried out the 119Sn-Mössbauer spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction studies on the some Mn0.5V0.25 Sn0.25 and V0.5Mn0.25Sn0.25 solid solutions prepared by arc melting of the constituent metals. Combining an independent information about atomic structure from X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer spectroscopy it was possible to identify main chemical environments responsible for the magnetic ordering observed in the samples. The studies revealed that investigated alloys are characterized by existence of the binary compounds, namely V2Sn3, V3Sn and Mn3Sn, with different extension in Mn and V atomic concentration, respectively. No ternary compounds were found in investigated systems.
Crystallization and Optimization of Soft Magnetic Properties Effect in FeSiB, FeNbSiB, FeCuNbSiB, FeCuZrCoSiB Amorphous Alloys
Authors: Kwapuliński P. , Pająk Lucjan , Lelątko Józef , Badura G. , Rasek Józef , Stokłosa Z. , Haneczok G.
Published: June 2010

The aim of the present paper is to find correlations between structural changes and electrical, mechanical and magnetic properties in Fe78Si13B9, Fe76Nb2Si13B9, Fe75Cu1Nb2Si13B9, Fe75Cu1Zr1Co1Si13B9, amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys obtained by melt spinning technique. The influence of annealing on material brittleness, magnetic and electric properties was examined. It was found that the optimization of soft magnetic properties effect is a thermally activated process and its diffusion parameters were determined. It was shown that for the alloys containing Cu, Nb and Zr as alloying additions, the optimization process can be attributed to formation of a nanocrystalline phase. In contrast to this for the FeSiB and FeNbSiB alloys the optimization process should be related to the relaxed amorphous phase.
Preparation of Fe-Based Bulk Amorphous and Nanocrystalline Alloys by Mould Suction Casting Technique
Authors: Chrobak Artur , Karolus Małgorzata , Haneczok G.
Published: June 2010

In this paper we present self-designed mould suction casting apparatus allowing preparation of bulk samples in a form of rods (1.5 mm in diameter and about 3 cm in length). Making use of the apparatus the following compositions of Fe80Nb6B14, Fe76.2Nb5.7B13.8Gd4.8, Fe69.9Nb5.2B12.2Gd13, Fe76.2Nb5.7B13.8Y4.8, Fe69.9Nb5.2B12.2Y13, Fe61.5Nb4.6B10.8Y23.1 alloys were prepared. Phase and microstructure identification were curried out by making use of X-ray diffraction measurements. The obtained results show that the constructed apparatus fulfill all conditions required for such technique. Gadolinium as an alloying addition causes full amorphization in the case of the Fe76.2Nb5.7B13.8Gd4.8 alloy. In the other cases the structure was found to be nanocrystalline which is discussed in the paper.
The X-Ray Studies on Amorphous Fe78Nb2B20 Alloy
Authors: Karolus Małgorzata
Published: June 2010

In this paper there are presented results of structure analyses of the Fe78Nb2B20 amorphous alloy after annealing. Basing on the initial analyses the “hypothetical” model structure was chosen as the combination of different kind of the Fe structure deformations: change of unit cell parameters (change of unit cell shape) and change of line broadening (change of crystallite size). The crystallite size (in meaning of the size of the ordered regions) for the amorphous state is in a range of 7 – 37 Å and for the crystalline state is about of 1100 Å. The comparison of the values of the unit cell parameters shows that the value of the basic – hypothetical unit cell in an amorphous state is bigger of 0.2 Å than in a crystalline state. After crystallisation there are detected Fe and Fe3B phases.
Crystallisation of Amorphous Al60Fe20Ti15Ni5 Alloy Produced by Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Krasnowski Marek , Kulik Tadeusz
Published: June 2010

In the present work, an elemental powder mixture of Al60Fe20Ti15Ni5 (at.%) was mechanically alloyed in a high-energy ball mill. The phase transformations occurring in the material during milling were studied with the use of X-ray diffraction. The results obtained show that an amorphous phase was formed during performed mechanical alloying process. Thermal behaviour of the milling product was examined by differential scanning calorimetry. It was found that amorphous phase crystallised above 540 °C when a heating rate of 40 °C/min was applied. On the basis of X-ray diffraction results, crystallisation product was identified as a cubic phase with the lattice parameter a0 = 11.856 Å, isomorphic with the 2 (Al2FeTi, fcc structure D8a) phase. The mean crystallite size of the crystallised 2 phase was 19 nm.
Microstructure and Lattice Parameter Studies of Constituent Phases in CoSi2-Si Eutectic Composite
Authors: Szostek Krzysztof , Gurdziel Wojciech , Wokulski Zygmunt
Published: June 2010

The subject of the study was an examination of the lattice parameter variations of the constituent phases in CoSi2-Si eutectic composite according to the vertical axes of samples. A preparation of samples has been conducted using Bridgman and Czochralski techniques. The aim of the study was to establish an influence of applied preparation method on a stability of appropriate lattice parameters. It was shown that the constituent phases of the CoSi2-Si eutectic samples obtained via Czochralski technique are distinguished by a higher stability of the lattice parameter than samples obtained using Bridgman technique.
SAXS and WAXD, Time Resolved Investigations of the Morphology of Polyethylenes
Authors: Rabiej Stanisław , Rabiej Małgorzata
Published: June 2010

This work shortly describes the morphology of polymers and presents the possibilities of SAXS method in the investigations of the structure of polymers referring to our studies on the structure of homogeneous copolymers ethylene-1-octene. Besides, we describe our computer program SAXSDAT designed for the analysis of SAXS curves of polymers.
Temperature Influence on Stress-Strain Relationship of Al-Cu-Fe Crystal-Quasicrystal Composites
Authors: Krawczyk Jacek , Gurdziel Wojciech , Bogdanowicz Włodzimierz , Flisiński Krzysztof
Published: June 2010

The columnar composites obtained “in situ” through solidification of Al61Cu27Fe12 alloy by the Bridgman method were studied. It has been verified that the matrix consisted of cubic single crystal β phase and the reinforcement of icosahedral quasicrystal ψ phase and monoclinic crystal λ phase, which have the form of rods. This kind of composites will be named the Al-Cu-Fe crystal-quasicrystal (CQ) composites. The effect of heating from a temperature of about 100°C to about 650°C on the stress-strain relationships σ(ε) of parallel samples was studied. Additionally, the σ(ε) relationship was defined in cyclic load-unload tests at different temperatures. The composites were examined by powder X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope.
Quantitative Phase Composition of Steelmaking Dust from Polish Steel Industry
Authors: Krztoń Hanna J.
Published: June 2010

Steelmaking dust, collected from four different steel plants, was examined by X-ray diffrac-tion powder technique using phase analysis. Some lead compounds, namely oxides, a silicate, a sul-phate and a chloride hydroxide, were identified. The quantities of the main phase components as franklinite, magnetite, hematite and zincite were determined, applying the Rietveld method. The importance of application of the microabsorption correction was shown.
Correlation between High-Temperature Structural Rearrangements and Oxygen Outlet in Perovskite SrCo0.6Fe0.2Nb0.2O3−z
Authors: Ivanov M.G. , Shmakov A.N. , Tsybulya S.V. , Podyacheva O.Yu. , Ismagilov Z.R.
Published: June 2010

Strontium cobaltite doped with Fe and Nb, SrCo0.6Fe0.2Nb0.2O3−z, with perovskite-like structure, being one of the promising materials for oxygen permeable membrane implementation, has been investigated via in situ high temperature X-ray powder diffraction on Bruker D8 Advance instrument and high-resolution powder diffraction at synchrotron radiation beamline. The oxygen outlet from the lattice has been found to stay in correlation with the structural rearrangement forming two phases with different oxygen deficiency. The activation energy of phase splitting process has been estimated to be Eactivation ≈ 0.63 ± 0.06 eV.
Structure Characterization of Ni/Al2O3 Composite Coatings Prepared by Electrodeposition
Authors: Góral Anna , Bełtowska-Lehman E. , Indyka P.
Published: June 2010

In the present study, the electrodeposition of composites consisted of metal matrix (nickel) and inert particles (hard nano-sized Al2O3 oxide) has been carried out in a Watt’s type bath of pH 4, at room temperature in a system with the steel rotating disk electrode. The influence of dispersed Al2O3 powder on structure characteristics (morphology, phase composition, texture, residual stresses) of Ni/Al2O3 coatings has been investigated. The crystallographic texture of Ni and Ni/Al2O3 coatings deposited on the steel substrates was analyzed by XRD technique based on the back-reflection pole figures. The “sin2ψ” X-ray diffraction method was used to determine the residual stress as a function of X-ray penetration depth. The influence of Al2O3 particles on the value of the Ni coating microhardness was also analyzed.
Electron Correlation and Shake up Effects on Energy Bands of Low Dimensional Carbon Systems
Authors: Rówiński Edward
Published: June 2010

The electron correlation and shake up effects on energy band structures in the diamond and tetrahedral amorphous carbon films (both on the substrate of NiTi alloy), the graphite (thin film) and precipitates of the titanium carbide (in the NiTi matrix) were studied by the Auger electron spectroscopy. The description of carbon spectrum is based on the convolution of two-conduction particles and one-core particle spectral densities. It was concluded that the comparisons of the experimental and theoretical Auger spectra were determined the quantitative assessment of the electron correlation and shake up effects in the carbon systems. We also discuss the electron correlations in a quantum wire/dot or bulk material.
Structure of Antimony Sulfoiodide Ultrasonically Prepared in Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Stróż Danuta , Nowak M. , Jesionek M. , Bałdys Katarzyna
Published: June 2010

This paper presents a brand new hybrid material on the nanometric scale: the antimony sulfoiodide (SbSI) within carbon nanotubes (CNTs). It was prepared in CNTs ultrasonically by using elemental antimony (Sb), sulfur (S) and iodide (I) in the presence of methanol under ultrasonic irradiation (34 kHz, 2.6 W/cm2). The sonochemical process was leaded for 3 hours at 323 K. The antimony sulfoiodide (SbSI) consisted in multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were characterized high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). These investigations exhibit that the SbSI filling the CNTs has single-crystal structure in nature and in the form of multiwalled carbon nanotubes. The SbSI grown in CNTs are very promising materials for further investigations as well as for some industrial and medical applications.
Thickness of Polycrystalline Copper Coating Measured by X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Skrzypek S.J. , Goły M. , Kowalska J. , Chruściel K.
Published: June 2010

Electrodeposition and other methods are employed to obtain metallic films and coatings. Copper coatings are most extensively used in circuit board industry and often as a base to further formation of other metallic films. Electrodeposited copper films (thin layers) are widely used in electronic and automotive industry so its electrical and mechanical properties and its thickness are important. Several methods are used for thickness determination of thin films and coatings for example mechanical, magnetic and ball crater with light microscopy methods. They are destructive and not precise enough. The X-ray fluorescence, absorption and diffraction are more frequently used due to better precision. Although they are complex and expensive, they pronounce an important feature like non-destructive character. For particular cases geometrical conditions and mathematical calculation procedure must be elaborated. An application of X-ray diffraction in grazing incidence angle for thickness determination is described in this article. The method is based on absorption principles of X-ray beam. The absorption is proportional to thickness of the coating and to incidence and to the diffraction angle which. Geometrical conditions were obtained experimentally and suitable mathematical calculations were introduced. The elaborated methodical approach was applied to thickness determination of copper coatings electrodeposited on a brass substrate.
A Combined Microscopical and XRD Study of Zinc Coatings
Authors: Pistofidis N. , Vourlias G. , Chaliampalias D. , Stergioudis F. , Polychroniadis Efstathios K.
Published: June 2010

In the present work the phases of the zinc coatings deposited with hot-dip galvanizing, pack cementation and wire flame spraying are examined with Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy. The different phases which are observed are identified with the combined results of electron and X-Ray diffraction. From the results it is concluded that pack cementation coatings are consisted by two different layers while hot dip galvanized coatings are composed by the same phases and additionally two extra phases of the Fe-Zn phase diagram. Flame sprayed coatings are composed by pure zinc, in the form of thin lamellae, together with nanocrystaline zinc oxide which is formed from the oxidation of liquid metallic droplets during the spray procedure.
Ochrobactrum anthropi Septic Arthritis: Case Report and Implications in Orthopedic Infections
Authors: Saveli Carla C. , Levi Marilyn , Koeppe John
Published: June 2010

Ochrobactrum anthropi is a rare cause of orthopedic infections. We report the second case of Ochrobactrum anthrop septic arthritis in the literature. Our case highlights the ability of Ochrobactrum anthropi to cause septic arthritis and its relevance in the field of orthopedic infections.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Correlation between aberrant behaviors, EEG abnormalities and seizures
Authors: Hartley-McAndrew Michelle Elena , Weinstock Arie
Published: June 2010

The relationship between epilepsy, epileptiform discharges, cognitive, language and behavioral symptoms is not clearly understood. Since difficulties with socialization and maladaptive behaviors are found in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we inquired whether epileptiform activity and seizures are associated with adverse behavioral manifestations in this population. We reviewed our EEG database between 1999-2006, and identified 123 children with ASD. EEG abnormalities were found in 39 children (31%). A control group of age and gender matched ASD children with normal EEG’s was obtained. Packets of questionnaires including the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale II (VABS), Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) were sent by mail. Out of 21 packets received, 11 had normal and 10 had abnormal EEG’s. There were no statistically significant differences in behavior between the two groups. Statistical analysis of discharge location and frequency did not reveal a significant trend. However, children with ASD and seizures had statistically significant lower scores in VABS daily living (P=0.009) and socialization (P=0.007) as compared to those without seizures. ASD children with seizures had higher ABC levels of hyperactivity and irritability. Differences in irritability scores nearly reached statistical significance (P=0.058). There was no significant difference in the degree of CARS autism rating between the groups. Our study did not reveal statistically significant differences in behaviors between ASD children with and without EEG abnormalities. However, ASD children with seizures revealed significantly worse behaviors as compared to counterparts without seizures.
Hematological Indices of Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Northern Nigeria.
Authors: Ahmed Sagir G. , Bukar Audu A. , Jolayemi Bashir
Published: June 2010

Nigeria has the fourth highest prevalence of TB and the highest prevalence of Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) in the world. SCA patients have impaired immunity and are vulnerable to TB. Hence, we studied the haematological indices of SCA patients with TB in Nigeria. A total of 23 SCA patients with TB were studied in parallel with equal number of age and sex matched SCA patients without TB. SCA patients with TB had significantly lower haematocrit, higher level of circulating sickle cells (CSCs) and similar level of reticulocyte count in comparison to patients without TB. SCA patients with TB had significantly higher mean WBC count associated with higher frequency of neutrophilia in comparison to those without TB. Monocytosis and eosinopenia were exclusively found in SCA patients with TB at frequencies of 52% and 65% respectively. Lymphocyte and basophil counts were normal in all patients with and without TB. Mean platelet counts were high in both patient groups but the frequency of thrombocytosis was significantly higher in patients with TB. SCA patients with TB had significantly higher mean ESR than their counterparts without the infection. The findings of this study  revealed that TB in SCA patients was associated with rising level of CSCs, falling level of haematocrit, sub-optimal reticulocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis, thrombocytosis, eosinopenia and rising level of ESR. Hence, SCA patients presenting with these haematological indices should be investigated for TB.
Ground-based observations for the validation of contrails and cirrus detection in satellite imagery
Authors: Mannstein H. , Brömser A. , Bugliaro L.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Contrails and additional cirrus clouds caused by air traffic have a potential warming effect due to their optical properties and their location in the upper troposphere. The effect of contrails is directly related to their coverage and optical properties, which both can be derived from satellite observations. However, considerable local and global uncertainties remain, as detection limits and efficiency are still unknown. A six months time series of the occurrence of high-level clouds and contrails was analysed visually using an all-sky camera situated at Oberpfaffenhofen (Southern Germany). It shows a contrail occurrence of 21% (fraction of time with visible contrails during one hour) which is nearly constant over daytime and a cirrus occurrence that increases from 27% in the morning to 48% in the evening, suggesting a possible influence of air traffic or, more probably, convective cloud formation. Furthermore, we compared selected all-sky camera images with data of the satellite instruments NOAA/AVHRR and MSG/SEVIRI. As expected, the fraction of contrails visible and detectable in satellite images depends strongly on their width. Of the contrails observed with the all-sky camera of 1–5 km width 60–65% are visually detectable in AVHRR data while only 17% are identified by an automated contrail detection algorithm (CDA). This means that the automated CDA detects approx. 28% of the contrails which are identified by visual inspection in AVHRR data alone. As far as SEVIRI is concerned, visual inspection yields 48% of the contrails of 1–5 km width, the CDA 19%. That means 40% of all contrails visually identifiable in SEVIRI data are found by the automated algorithm. As far as cirrus detection using SEVIRI data is concerned, an automated algorithm tends to overestimate cirrus occurrence but correctly measures cirrus changes during the day compared to visual inspection.
A new multi-sensor approach to simulation assisted tsunami early warning
Authors: Behrens J. , Androsov A. , Babeyko A. Y. , Harig S. , Klaschka F. , Mentrup L.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. A new tsunami forecasting method for near-field tsunami warning is presented. This method is applied in the German-Indonesian Tsunami Early Warning System, as part of the Indonesian Tsunami Warning Center in Jakarta, Indonesia. The method employs a rigorous approach to minimize uncertainty in the assessment of tsunami hazard in the near-field. Multiple independent sensors are evaluated simultaneously in order to achieve an accurate estimation of coastal arrival times and wave heights within very short time after a submarine earthquake event. The method is validated employing a synthetic (simulated) tsunami event, and in hindcasting the minor tsunami following the Padang 30 September 2009 earthquake.
Watch and Wait for Near-Complete Responders—A Word of Caution
Authors: Guillem José G. , Varvoglis Dimitrios N.
Published: May 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the establishment of a cutoff point as the watch and wait approach is increasingly used in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.