bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In SituEXAFS Characterization of Nanoparticulate Catalysts
Authors: Evans John , Puig-Molina Anna , Tromp Moniek 
Published: February 2011

AbstractX-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy probes the structure and electronic properties of metal centers. Because it can be applied to noncrystalline materials, it is a key technique for probing nanoparticulate materials, such as colloidal and heterogeneous metal catalysts. The high brilliance of modern synchrotron radiation x-ray sources facilitatesin situstudies, which provide direct structure–function relationships with both spatial and time resolution; this is especially effective when applied in combination with complementary techniques such as x-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry, and optical or vibrational spectroscopies. Tracking the particle formation of platinum-group metal catalysts, their behavior under reaction conditions, and the distribution of sites within a catalyst bed shows that this approach is essential for understanding the chemistry of these nanoparticles. Rather than behave as monolithic entities, nanoparticulate catalysts undergo rapid structural transformations induced by the gas environment and reaction conditions, and their lifetimes as catalysts depend on the reversibility of these changes.
Processing and Properties of Polymers Modified by Clays
Authors: Hunter Douglas L. , Kamena Karl W. , Paul Donald R. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractLayered smectite nanoclays are being developed for incorporation into a variety of host polymer systems. Nanoscopic phase distribution can impart enhanced stiffness at low addition levels and improve barrier and flame-retardant properties. When combined with other inorganic and organic modifiers, nanoclays can provide synergies to generate the desired formulation properties and cost/per form ance characteristics. Developments with existing nanoclay products using conventional amine chemistries are described for thermoplastic, thermoset, and rubber formulations. Nanoclays are demonstrating unique, multidimensional per form ance and proc essing capabilities. Commercial applications are emerging in a variety of diverse markets ranging from automotive to packaging.
Designed Interfaces in Polymer Nanocomposites: A Fundamental Viewpoint
Authors: Schadler Linda S. , Kumar Sanat K. , Benicewicz Brian C. , Lewis Sarah L. , Harton Shane E. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractUsing nanocomposites in design-critical applications requires an understanding of their structure–property–function relationships. Despite many reports of highly favorable properties, the behavior of polymer nanocomposites is not generally predictable. The ability to tailor the filler/matrix interaction and an understanding of the impact of the inter face on macroscopic properties are key to designing their properties. Tailoring can be achieved by grafting short mole cules or polymer chains from the surface with precise control over their chain length (1–1000 mers), graft density (0.01–1 chains/nm2), and chemical architecture. The challenge is understanding the impact of the modified surfaces on the properties of the interfacial polymer, which can be more than 50% of the volume of the polymer matrix and, hence, can exert significant control over the macroscopic behavior of the nanocomposite. This ar ticle highlights the fundamental technical challenges that need to be overcome before spherical nanopar ticle or nanotube composites can be designed. In particular, we discuss results from the recent literature that have significantly advanced our ability to predict and control nanocomposite properties through the use of designed interfaces.
Improving Electrical Conductivity and Thermal Properties of Polymers by the Addition of Carbon Nanotubes as Fillers
Authors: Winey Karen I. , Kashiwagi Takashi , Mu Minfang 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe remarkable electrical and thermal conductivities of isolated carbon nanotubes have spurred worldwide interest in using nanotubes to enhance polymer properties. Electrical conductivity in nanotube/polymer composites is well described by percolation, where the presence of an interconnected nanotube network corresponds to a dramatic increase in electrical conductivity ranging from 10−5 S/cm to 1 S/cm. Given the high aspect ratios and small diameters of carbon nanotubes, percolation thresholds are often reported below 1 wt% although nanotube dispersion and alignment strongly influence this value. Increases in thermal conductivity are modest (∼3 times) because the inter facial thermal re sis tance between nanotubes is considerable and the thermal conductivity of nanotubes is only 104 greater than the polymer, which forces the matrix to contribute more toward the composite thermal conductivity, as compared to the contrast in electrical conductivity, >1014. The nanotube network is also valuable for improving flame-retardant efficiency by producing a protective nanotube residue. In this ar ticle, we highlight published research results that elucidate fundamental structure–property relationships pertaining to electrical, thermal, and/or flammability properties in numerous nanotube-containing polymer composites, so that specific applications can be targeted for future commercial success.
Pb-Free Solder: New Materials Considerations for Microelectronics Processing
Authors: Borgesen Peter , Bieler Thomas , Lehman L. P. , Cotts E. J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractA single printed circuit board includes thousands, sometimes even hundreds of thousands, of solder joints. The failure of even a single solder joint is usually enough to compromise the functionality of an electronic device or system. PbSn solder had been the standard ma te rial for these joints until various regulations around the world began to limit Pb use. SnAgCu and related alloys are quickly replacing PbSn, but much still needs to be understood and controlled. None of the paradigms for understanding the mechanical response of PbSn alloys is applicable to lead-free alloys. Much of the surprising behavior of SnAgCu solder arises from the complex and fascinating nature of its solidification behavior. In this ar ticle, the impact of solidification on the microstruc ture and therefore the mechanical properties of these solder joints will be addressed in the context of microelectronics proc essing. The need for better simulations of SnAgCu solder behavior will also be examined. Notably, modelers will have to account for a variety of new parameter dependencies not previously considered.
Reconstruction of Historical Alloys for Pipe Organs Brings True Baroque Music Back to Life
Authors: Baretzky B. , Friesel M. , Straumal B. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe pipe organ is the king of musical instruments. No other instrument can compare with the pipe organ in power, timbre, dynamic range, tonal complexity, and sheer majesty of sound. The art of organ building reached its peak in the Baroque Age (∼1600–1750); with the industrial revolution in the 19th century, organ building shifted from a traditional artisans' work to factory production, changing the aesthetic concept and design of the organ so that the profound knowledge of the organ masters passed down over generations was lost.This knowledge is being recreated via close collaborations between research scientists, musicians, and organ builders throughout Europe. Dozens of metallic samples taken from 17th- to 19th-century organ pipes have been investigated to determine their composition, microstructure, properties, and manufacturing processes using sophisticated methods of materials science. Based upon these data, technologies for casting, forming, hammering, rolling, filing, and annealing selected leadtin pipe alloys and brass components for reed pipes have been reinvented and customized to reproduce those from characteristic time periods and specific European regions. The new materials recreated in this way are currently being processed and used by organ builders for the restoration of period organs and the manufacture of new organs with true Baroque sound.
Functional Nanowires
Authors: Lieber Charles M. , Wang Zhong Lin 
Published: February 2011

AbstractNanotechnology offers the promise of enabling revolutionary advances in diverse areas ranging from electronics, optoelectronics, and energy to healthcare. Underpinning the realization of such advances are the nanoscale ma te rials and corresponding nanodevices central to these application areas. Semiconductor nanowires and nanobelts are emerging as one of the most powerful and diverse classes of functional nanoma terials that are having an impact on science and technology. In this issue of MRS Bulletin, several leaders in this vibrant field of research present brief reviews that highlight key aspects of the underlying materials science of nanowires, basic device functions achievable with these materials, and developing applications in electronics and at the interface with biology. This article introduces the controlled synthesis, patterned and designed self-assembly, and unique applications of nanowires in nanoelectronics, nano-optoelectronics, nanosensors, nanobiotechnology, and energy harvesting.
Growth of Binary Oxide Nanowires
Authors: Wang Jiangxiong , Xie Sishen , Zhou Weiya 
Published: February 2011

AbstractOne-dimensional (1D) semiconducting oxide nanostructures such as ZnO, SnO2, and In2O3 have been extensively studied due to their excellent optical and electrical properties. Growth of 1D nanostructures with precisely controlled size, phase purity, crystallinity, and chemical composition still presents numerous challenges. In this review, we report the recent progress on the synthesis of binary oxide nanostructures consisting of different oxides through a simple and effective vapor transport approach in our research. By controlling the experimental conditions, this approach enables the synthesis of various multicomponent binary oxide nanowires.
Three-Dimensional Microstructural Characterization Using Focused Ion Beam Tomography
Authors: Uchic Michael D. , Holzer Lorenz , Inkson Beverley J. , Principe Edward L. , Munroe Paul 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThis article reviews recent developments and applications of focused ion beam (FIB) microscopes for three-dimensional (3D) materials characterization at the microscale through destructive serial sectioning experiments. Precise ion milling—in combination with electron-optic—based imaging and surface analysis methods—can be used to iteratively section through metals, ceramics, polymers, and electronic or biological materials to reveal the true size, shape, and distribution of microstructural features. Importantly, FIB tomographic experiments cover a critical size-scale gap that cannot be obtained with other instrumentation. The experiments encompass material volumes that are typically larger than 1000 μm3, with voxel dimensions approaching tens of nanometers, and can contain structural, chemical, and crystallographic information. This article describes the current state of the art of this experimental methodology and provides examples of specific applications to 3D materials characterization.
Gecko Adhesion: Structure, Function, and Applications
Authors: Autumn Kellar 
Published: February 2011

AbstractGeckos attach and detach their adhesive toes in milliseconds while running with reckless abandon on nearly any surface. The adhesive on gecko toes differs dramatically from that of conventional adhesives. Conventional pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are soft viscoelastic polymers that degrade, foul, self-adhere, and attach accidentally to inappropriate surfaces. In contrast, gecko toes bear angled arrays of branched, hair-like fibers (setae) formed from stiff, hydrophobic keratin that act as a bed of angled springs with an effective stiffness similar to that of PSAs. Setae are selfcleaning and maintain function for months during repeated use in dirty conditions. Setae are an anisotropic “frictional adhesive” in that adhesion requires maintenance of a proximally directed shear load. Thus, gecko setae resist inappropriate bonding and are capable of easy and rapid attachment and detachment. Engineered adhesive nanostructures inspired by geckos may become the glue of the future—and perhaps the screw of the future as well.
Functional Morphology and Design Constraints of Smooth Adhesive Pads
Authors: Barnes W. Jon. P. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractSmooth adhesive pads are found among the arthropods, amphibians (particularly tree frogs), and in some mammals. They are used for dynamic adhesion when an animal is climbing steep or overhanging smooth surfaces. There is a need for strong attachment to avoid falling and easy detachment to enable the animal to move. This article describes the morphology and physical properties of smooth adhesive pads, stressing how there is little variation in structure, within tree frogs at least, even among pads that have evolved independently. This is clear evidence of an optimum design; best adhesion occurs when there is a continuous, thin film of fluid between the pad and the surface. Smooth adhesive pads adhere by wet adhesion, the main force component being capillarity, produced by the air/liquid interface (meniscus) around the edge of each pad. Smooth adhesive pads also produce substantial friction forces, probably because of actual contact between the pad surface and substrate (tree frogs) or non-Newtonian properties of the secreted fluid (insects). This is possible because the fluid layer beneath the pad has an average thickness of only a few nanometers. The article also discusses the scaling of adhesive force with size and, finally, implications for biomimetics.
Biological Adhesion for Locomotion on Rough Surfaces: Basic Principles and A Theorist's View
Authors: Persson B. N. J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractSurface roughness is the main reason why macroscopic solids usually do not adhere to each other with any measurable strength, and a root-mean-square roughness amplitude of only 1 μm is enough to completely remove the adhesion between normal rubber (with an elastic modulusE≈ 1 MPa) and a hard, nominally flat substrate. Biological adhesion systems used by insects and geckos for locomotion are built from a relatively stiff material (keratin or chitin–protein composite withE≈ 1 GPa). Nevertheless, strong adhesion is possible even to very rough substrate surfaces by using noncompact solid structures consisting of fibers (setae) and plates (spatulae). Biological systems use a hierarchical building principle, where the thickness of the fibers or plates decreases as one approaches the outer surface of the attachment pad, to optimize the binding to rough surfaces while simultaneously avoiding elastic instabilities, for example, lateral bundling of fibers.
Designing Model Systems for Enhanced Adhesion
Authors: Chan Edwin P. , Greiner Christian , Arzt Eduard , Crosby Alfred J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractNature provides inspiration for enhanced control of adhesion through numerous examples ranging from geckos to jumping spiders. The primary strategy in these examples is the incorporation of patterns, specifically high-aspect-ratio topographic features, to ingeniously maximize adhesion forces while maintaining ease of release. Recently, considerable research efforts have been devoted toward the understanding, development, and optimization of synthetic analogues to these examples in nature. In this article, we provide insight into the mechanisms that lead to enhanced control of interfacial properties through patterning, the strategies that can be used for fabricating synthetic patterns, and an overview of experimental results that have been used to gain understanding and guidance in this emerging field.
Microstructured Polymer Adhesive Feet for Climbing Robots
Authors: Daltorio Kathryn A. , Gorb Stanislav , Peressadko Andrei , Horchler Andrew D. , Wei Terence E. , Ritzmann Roy E. , Quinn Roger D. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractNovel insect-foot–inspired materials may enable future robots to walk on surfaces regardless of the direction of gravity. Mini-Whegs™, a small robot that uses four wheel-legs for locomotion, was converted to a wall-walking robot with compliant, adhesive feet. First, the robot was tested with conventional adhesive feet. Then a new, reusable insect-inspired adhesive was tested on the robot. This structured polymer adhesive has less adhesive strength than conventional pressure-sensitive adhesives, but it has two important advantages: the foot material maintains its properties for more walking cycles before becoming contaminated, and the feet can then be washed and reused with similar results, which is not feasible with conventional adhesives. After the addition of a tail and widening the feet, the robot is capable of ascending vertical smooth glass surfaces using the structured polymer adhesive.
Next-Generation Fibrous Media for Water Treatment
Authors: Kaur Satinderpal , Gopal Renuga , Ng Wun Jern , Ramakrishna Seeram , Matsuura Takeshi 
Published: February 2011

AbstractFibrous media in the form of nonwoven filters have been used extensively in water treatment as pre-filters or to support the medium that does the separation. Nonwoven media are composed of randomly oriented micron-size fibers and provide a one step separation as a substitute for conventional processes comprising chemical addition, flocculation, sedimentation, and sand filtration. At present the use of nonwoven filter media is limited to pre-filters and is not used further downstream as high performance filters. However it is expected that by reducing the fiber size in the nanometer range, higher filtration efficiency can be achieved. With the advent of nanotechnology, the ease of producing high quality nano scaled fibers is now a reality. Recent advancements in nanofibrous media through surface modifications have shown that nonwoven media can be used beyond the prefilter stage. Furthermore the pore size of the filter media can be controlled through modification of fiber size and thickness of membranes. These nanofibrous membranes possess high surface area and large porosity leading to high flux, low pressure membranes. This article highlights important opportunities and challenges associated with developing nanofibrous media for water treatment. In addition, we have attempted to capture a snapshot of this rapidly developing new area of fibrous media for water treatment for the benefit of the wider membrane community.
Functional-DNA–Based Nanoscale Materials and Devices for Sensing Trace Contaminants in Water
Authors: Wernette Daryl P. , Liu Juewen , Bohn Paul W. , Lu Yi 
Published: February 2011

AbstractTrace contaminant detection in water represents both a grand challenge and great opportunity for materials scientists and engineers. The recent discovery that functional DNA can be obtained to bind selectively to a wide range of contaminants makes it possible to interface these molecules with nanoscale materials, such as gold nanoparticles and quantum dots, to transform the molecular reorganization between functional DNA and contaminants into physically detectable colorimetric and fluorescent signals. Micro- and nanofluidic devices have also played a critical role in lowering the detection limits of functional-DNA sensors, promoting sensor regeneration and thus improving sensor performance and allowing long-term unattended monitoring of water quality.
Analysis of Complex Microstructures: Serial Sectioning and Phase-Field Simulations
Authors: Kammer D. , Voorhees P. W. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractWith the emergence and evolution of serial sectioning techniques that allow for three-dimensional data collection and the continuing increase in computational power, it is now possible to analyze and compute the evolution of three-dimensional nano- and microstructures. Structures can be accurately characterized, and it is possible to correlate processing paths with materials properties with great precision. Examples of the analysis and computations of the evolution of three-dimensional microstructures are discussed. The focus is on experiments that use serial sectioning methods to determine three-dimensional structure and on phase-field simulations of microstructural evolution that employ experimental three-dimensional data as initial conditions.
3DXRD Characterization and Modeling of Solid-State Transformation Processes
Authors: Jensen D. Juul , Offerman S.E. , Sietsma J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThree-dimensional x-ray diffraction (3DXRD) allows nondestructive characterization of grains, orientations, and stresses in bulk microstructures and, therefore, enables in situ studies of the structural dynamics during processing. The method is described briefly, and its potential for providing new data valuable for validation of various models of microstructural evolution is discussed. Examples of 3DXRD measurements related to recrystallization and to solid-state phase transformations in metals are described. 3DXRD measurements have led to new modeling activity predicting the evolution of metallic microstructures with much more detail than hitherto possible. Among these modeling activities are three-dimensional (3D) geometric modeling, 3D molecular dynamics modeling, 3D phase-field modeling, two-dimensional (2D) cellular automata, and 2D Monte Carlo simulations.
A Molecular Basis for Advanced Materials in Water Treatment
Authors: Cygan Randall T. , Brinker C. Jeffrey , Nyman May D. , Leung Kevin , Rempe Susan B. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractA molecular-scale interpretation of interfacial processes is often downplayed in the analysis of traditional water treatment methods; however, such a fundamental approach is perhaps critical for the realization of enhanced performance in traditional desalination and related treatments, and in the development of novel water treatment technologies. Specifically, we examine in this article the molecular-scale processes that affect water and ion selectivity at the nanopore scale as inspired by nature, the behavior of a model polysaccharide as a biofilm, and the use of cluster-surfactant flocculants in viral sequestration.
Organic Light-Emitting Devices for Solid-State Lighting
Authors: So Franky , Kido Junji , Burrows Paul 
Published: February 2011

AbstractOrganic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) have been widely developed for flat-panel displays, but only recently the efficiency of white OLEDs has risen to the point where they can be considered for solid-state lighting (SSL) applications. In this review, we discuss the requirements of solid-state lighting as they relate to OLEDs. We focus on how the color, efficiency, and cost requirements of general illumination differ from those of displays and how these differences might have an impact on the design of organic SSL. We then present some recent developments in large-area fabrication techniques that might be appropriate for solid-state lighting applications. Finally, we review recent results in the development of organic materials, device architectures, light extraction schemes, and fabrication techniques that can lead to cost-effective OLED lighting.
Connecting Electrical and Molecular Properties of Semiconducting Polymers for Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Chabinyc Michael L. , Jimison Leslie H. , Rivnay Jonathan , Salleo Alberto 
Published: February 2011

AbstractAn overview of recent work on the connection between electrical and molecular properties of semiconducting polymers for thin-film transistors (TFTs) is presented. A description of the molecular packing and microstructure of amorphous to semicrystalline semiconducting polymers is presented. The features of basic models for electrical transport in TFTs are discussed. These studies indicate that defect states and traps are as important as ordered domains for understanding transport in semiconducting polymers. Advanced methods, such as electric force microscopy, useful for measuring the characteristics of defect states and charge traps, are briefly reviewed.