Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Assel Aitkaliyeva
Summary: Metallic nuclear fuels have been extensively studied for over 60 years, showing distinctive irradiation behaviors compared to oxide fuels. Current gaps in understanding and recommendations for future research direction are identified for metallic U-Zr and U-Pu-Zr fuels. This review highlights key aspects of metallic fuel irradiation behaviors and points out areas for further research based on recent studies.
JOURNAL OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
S. Thanka Rajan, Jaganathan Senthilnathan, A. Arockiarajan
Summary: This study investigated the formation of N-enriched mixed metal oxides thin film composites and their photocatalytic activity to degrade PRH-Dye dye. The addition of N to Ta2O5-Nb2O5-N significantly enhanced the active sites and increased the generation of OH radicals. The Ta2O5-Nb2O5-N composite exhibited high photocatalytic activity under solar radiation, making it a promising material for water pollution remediation.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Yeochan An, Pyeongjae Park, Chaebin Kim, Kaixuan Zhang, Hyeoncheol Kim, Maxim Avdeev, Jaewon Kim, Myung-Joon Han, Han-Jin Noh, Seungho Seong, J. -s. Kang, Hyeong-Do Kim, Je-Geun Park
Summary: T M1/3MS2 (TM = 3d transition metal, M = Nb, Ta) has recently attracted increasing attention due to its wide variety of fascinating magnetic structures and the chiral arrangement of intercalated TM atoms. The bulk properties of Ni1/3NbS2 and Ni1/3TaS2 were investigated through various techniques. The results show that Ni1/3NbS2 undergoes a phase transition at 84 K, developing an antiferromagnetic helical order, while Ni1/3TaS2 exhibits a simple A-type spin configuration below 158 K. These magnetic structures, combined with lattice chirality and metallicity, offer potential for various interesting transport properties, making Ni1/3NbS2 and Ni1/3TaS2 promising candidates for future studies on antiferromagnetic spintronics.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ilias Bikmukhametov, Garritt J. Tucker, Gregory B. Thompson
Summary: Depositing a Ni-1at. % P film can facilitate the formation of multiple quintuple twin junctions, resulting in a five-fold twin structure and a pentagonal pyramid surface topology. The ability to control material structures offers opportunities for creating novel surface topologies, which can be used as arrays of field emitters or textured surfaces.
SCRIPTA MATERIALIA
(2024)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Fulin Wang, Jean-Charles Stinville, Marie Charpagne, McLean P. Echlin, Sean R. Agnew, Tresa M. Pollock, Marc De Graef, Daniel S. Gianola
Summary: Metallic alloys produced by additive manufacturing often have complex microstructures, including orientation gradients and dislocation cells. This study focuses on characterizing these features using electron backscatter diffraction patterns. The sharpness metric employed in this study reflects the elastic strain field from dislocations and exhibits advantages such as being proportional to local dislocation density and insensitive to grain orientation. The results contribute to our understanding of the origin and implications of the dislocation cells produced during additive manufacturing.
MATERIALS CHARACTERIZATION
(2023)
Article
Microscopy
Xinu Tan, Yushun Liu, Feitao Li, Risheng Qiu, Qing Liu
Summary: In this study, the lattice parameter and twins of gamma-ZrH hydride in Zr-2.5Nb-1Si were characterized using high resolution electron microscopy. The lattice parameters of gamma-ZrH were determined to be a = 0.336 nm, c = 0.508 nm. Twinning gamma-ZrH hydride ({011}<011> type) was reported for the first time in zirconium alloys, with an orientation relationship with alpha-Zr of [100]gamma-twins // [1210]alpha and (011)gamma-twins // (0002)alpha. The formation process of gamma-ZrH twins was also discussed based on a 'grow-in' mechanism during the transformation from alpha-Zr to gamma-ZrH hydride.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
G. De Luca, J. Spring, U. Bashir, M. Campanini, R. Totani, C. Dominguez, A. Zakharova, M. Dobeli, T. Greber, M. D. Rossell, C. Piamonteze, M. Gibert
Summary: The study shows that LNMO thin films maintain insulating behavior and a stable Curie temperature, regardless of the epitaxial strain conditions. This suggests that this material could be used in multi-layer device architectures that require a high-temperature ferromagnetic insulating state.
Article
Materials Science, Coatings & Films
Thomas R. Koenig, Zhaoxia Rao, Eric Chason, Garritt J. Tucker, Gregory B. Thompson
Summary: The study investigates the stress and microstructural evolution of Ni thin films under various sputtering conditions. A kinetic model is used to understand the factors contributing to the intrinsic stress development and their relationship with microstructure. It was found that bimodal grain size distribution in films deposited at the lowest pressure deviated from the model's predictions, impacting the overall fit of the model to experimental data.
SURFACE & COATINGS TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Coatings & Films
Yu Zheng, Peng Xu, Long Li, Qibin Liu, Shanzhu Guo
Summary: In this study, TixNb alloy coatings with excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility were fabricated by laser cladding. The biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the coatings were discussed. The results showed that the coatings had high microhardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Cell experiments demonstrated that the coatings had better biocompatibility than Ti6Al4V.
JOURNAL OF VACUUM SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY A
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
L. Mustafi, V. T. Nguyen, S. L. Lu, T. Song, B. J. Murdoch, D. M. Fabijanic, M. Qian
Summary: This research introduces a promising bio-applicable new medium entropy alloy with lower atomic mismatch value. The alloy exhibits adequate tensile ductility and yield strength for medical applications, and is stronger and lighter than tantalum while still allowing for the formation of a tantalum oxide film. Micro-shear bands and twin structures near the tensile fracture surfaces provide insights into the ductility of the alloy in the as-cast state.
MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING A-STRUCTURAL MATERIALS PROPERTIES MICROSTRUCTURE AND PROCESSING
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Priya Goyal, Arijit Sengupta, Prasanta Kumar Mohapatra
Summary: A "green" single-step separation process using a phosphonium phosphinate functionalized ionic liquid has been developed for efficient separation of Nb and Ta in nitric acid solution. The separation efficiency was higher in C(8)mim center dot NTf2 compared to C(4)mim center dot NTf2. The extraction in C(8)mim center dot NTf2 involved a solvation mechanism, while in C(4)mim center dot NTf2 a cation exchange mechanism was observed. The reusability of the solvent system was satisfactory.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jameson P. Hankwitz, Christopher Ledford, Christopher Rock, Scott O'Dell, Timothy J. Horn
Summary: Niobium-based tungsten alloys are ideal for high-temperature structural applications, but are limited by their room-temperature ductility and fabricability. Powder bed fusion additive manufacturing can help process alloys with limited ductility, with post-processing heat treatments required to improve mechanical properties.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Wan-Ting Lu, Lai-Chang Zhang, Jian Xu
Summary: This study investigated the metallic-ion release behavior of a magnetic-resonance-imaging (MRI) compatible Nb-60Ta-2Zr alloy exposed to simulated physiological medium. The kinetic processes of metallic-ion release were characterized in two distinct phases, while the electrochemical properties were not affected by extended exposure times. A clear correlation between metallic-ion release and electrochemical properties was observed only when the dynamic steady state of ion release was established. XPS analysis revealed that the passive film on the surface of Nb-60Ta-2Zr after 21 days of exposure mainly consisted of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5, with trace amounts of ZrO2 and suboxides of Nb and Ta.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Hao Liang, Leiming Fang, Shixue Guan, Fang Peng, Zhengang Zhang, Haihua Chen, Wei Zhang, Cheng Lu
Summary: The structural stability, plastic deformation behavior, and mechanical properties of hafnium carbide under high pressure conditions were investigated. High-density HfC ceramics were successfully prepared using a high-pressure and high-temperature method. The results provide valuable insights into the potential application of HfC ceramics in extreme conditions.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
J. Magnus Rahm, Joakim Lofgren, Erik Fransson, Paul Erhart
Summary: Research on the thermodynamics of hydrogen in Pd-Au using alloy cluster expansions investigates the impact of different chemical orderings on material behavior, with a focus on hydrogen absorption/desorption isotherms. Results indicate the formation of a long-range ordered L1(2) phase and the occurrence of phase separation when full equilibrium is reached in the presence of hydrogen. These findings shed light on the stability of absorption/desorption isotherms in Pd-Au over time.
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Parand R. Riley, Kai-Hung Yang, Yizhong Liu, Shelby A. Skoog, Jagdish Narayan, Roger J. Narayan
Summary: The surface chemistry of silicon-incorporated diamond-like carbon (Si-DLC) was modified by oxygen and fluorine plasma treatments, which increased the cell viability by converting the hydrophobic surface of Si-DLC into a hydrophilic one.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF APPLIED CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Zehao Cui, Nayna Khosla, Tianxing Lai, Jagdish Narayan, Arumugam Manthiram
Summary: The cycling stability of high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) can be effectively enhanced by a high-energy laser treatment, which involves partial decomposition of the binder and formation of a surface LiF phase. This treatment mitigates detrimental electrode-electrolyte reactions and reduces the generation of dissolved transition-metal ions and acidic crossover species.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiangrui Wang, Tak-Fu Hung, Fu-Rong Chen, Wen-Xiong Wang
Summary: In this study, we used in situ techniques to reveal the dissolution process of Cu2O nanoparticles in freshwater. Our findings indicate that cubic Cu2O nanoparticles have a higher dissolution quantity compared with spherical nanoparticles of the same surface area. The difference is mainly attributed to the crystal surface, while other factors like particle size or aggregation status have minor effects. We also demonstrated the simultaneous growth of new small nanoparticles and the dissolution of pristine Cu2O nanoparticles during the dissolution process. The solubility of cubic Cu2O nanoparticles is significantly reduced under O2-limited conditions, suggesting that the O2 concentration largely affects the dependence of dissolution on nanoparticle morphology. Our study highlights the potential application of in situ techniques in tracking the environmental fate of metal-oxide-based nanoparticles, providing important information for assessing the ecological risks of engineered nanoparticles.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ke Zhang, Fu-Rong Chen, Lidai Wang, Jinlian Hu
Summary: In this review, the advantages and various imaging technologies of near-infrared-II (NIR-II) bioimaging for deep brain imaging are discussed, along with the corresponding contrast agents. The applications of NIR-II bioimaging in visualizing cerebrovascular characteristics and monitoring pathology signals, as well as its potential for modulating brain structure and function, are outlined. Future perspectives for improving the clinical translation of NIR-II light are also proposed.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhihao Xiong, Haofeng Shi, Wenyuan Zhang, Jingtao Yan, Jun Wu, Chengdeng Wang, Donghua Wang, Jiashuai Wang, Yousong Gu, Fu-Rong Chen, Yongzhen Yang, Bingshe Xu, Xiaoqin Yan
Summary: Due to the pressure on lithium resources, low-cost sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as the most potential candidates for energy storage systems in the new era. This study proposes V2C/Fe7S8@C composites with hierarchical structures, prepared through an in situ synthesis method, to address the problem of anode materials in SIBs development. The V2C-MXene growth substrate greatly improves the rate capability of SIBs, while the carbon layer ensures charge-discharge stability. The V2C/Fe7S8@C anode achieves satisfactory sodium storage capacity and exceptional rate performance, making it a promising material for energy storage.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dong Chen, Shaoce Zhang, Di Yin, Wanpeng Li, Xiuming Bu, Quan Quan, Zhengxun Lai, Wei Wang, You Meng, Chuntai Liu, SenPo Yip, Fu-Rong Chen, Chunyi Zhi, Johnny C. C. Ho
Summary: This study reports a method to tailor the interlayer spacing of 2D SnS nanosheets, which enhances the chemical affinity towards NO3- and NO2- while inhibiting hydrogen generation. This promotes the rate-determining step in electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia and achieves excellent Faradaic efficiency and yield rate.
ADVANCED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Nayna Khosla, Jagdish Narayan, Roger Narayan, Xiao-Guang Sun, Mariappan Parans Paranthaman
Summary: Nanosecond pulsed laser annealing improves cyclability and current carrying capacity of lithium-ion batteries by engineering microstructure and defects in graphite, and enhancing Li+ ion trapping sites.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Donghua Wang, Kaikai Ma, Jiamao Hao, Wenyuan Zhang, Haofeng Shi, Chengdeng Wang, Zhihao Xiong, Zhiming Bai, Fu-Rong Chen, Junjie Guo, Bingshe Xu, Xiaoqin Yan, Yousong Gu
Summary: Developing an electrocatalyst that can improve the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries is crucial. The utilization of traditional metal electrocatalytic nanoparticles has not met expectations. In this study, a single-atom catalyst with a nitrogen-doped graphene mesh is engineered to achieve high efficiency in catalytic conversion of lithium polysulfides. The catalyst suppresses shuttle effect and enhances sulfur redox kinetics, leading to improved battery performance.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Haofeng Shi, Wenyuan Zhang, Donghua Wang, Jiashuai Wang, Chengdeng Wang, Zhihao Xiong, Fu-Rong Chen, Hailiang Dong, Bingshe Xu, Xiaoqin Yan
Summary: Researchers have developed a novel carbon-coated porous structure for silicon anodes, which solves the instability issue caused by volume expansion. The material exhibits excellent cycling performance and capacity retention, making it suitable for practical application in lithium-ion batteries.
JOURNAL OF ELECTROANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Electrochemistry
Nayna Khosla, Jagdish Narayan, Roger Narayan, Xiao-Guang Sun, M. Parans Paranthaman
Summary: In this study, nanosecond pulsed laser annealing (PLA) was used to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The PLA treatment reduced the carbonate layer, formed a protective LiF layer, and manipulated the microstructures of the cathodes to increase the active surface area. This resulted in up to a 50% increase in the current capacity of the batteries.
JOURNAL OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
You Meng, Xiaocui Li, Xiaolin Kang, Wanpeng Li, Wei Wang, Zhengxun Lai, Weijun Wang, Quan Quan, Xiuming Bu, SenPo Yip, Pengshan Xie, Dong Chen, Dengji Li, Fei Wang, Chi-Fung Yeung, Changyong Lan, Chuntai Liu, Lifan Shen, Yang Lu, Furong Chen, Chun-Yuen Wong, Johnny C. Ho
Summary: The authors explore the unique multi-scale van der Waals interactions in one-dimensional tellurium systems to overcome the restrictions imposed by chemical bonds. They succeed in synthesizing wafer-scale van der Waals nanomeshes composed of self-welding Te nanowires on various substrates at a low temperature, which exhibit improved transport and photoelectric properties. These Te vdWs nanomesh electronics hold great promise in meeting emerging technological demands.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Fu-Rong Chen, Rong-Ming Ho, Chen-Jung Hung, Aum Sagar Panda, Yi-Chien Lee, Shih-Yi Liu, Jheng-Wei Lin, Hsiao-Fang Wang, Apostolos Avgeropoulos, Fan-Gang Tseng
Summary: In this study, the controlled self-assembly of star-block polystyrene-blockpolydimethylsiloxane (PS-b-PDMS) thin films was directly visualized using in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations. The self-alignment process of film-spanning perpendicular cylinders in the block copolymer (BCP) thin films was investigated under low-dose conditions using an environmental chip with a built-in microheater. The time-resolved self-alignment process was systematically compared between symmetric and asymmetric conditions, providing comprehensive insights into the nucleation and growth mechanism.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Christian Kisielowski, Petra Specht, Stig Helveg, Fu-Rong Chen, Bert Freitag, Joerg Jinschek, Dirk Van Dyck
Summary: The relation between energy-dependent particle and wave descriptions of electron-matter interactions on the nanoscale was analyzed by measuring the delocalization of an evanescent field. The study found that the spatial extension of the field coincided with the energy-dependent self-coherence length of propagating wave packets. The findings suggest that wave packets are created by self-interferences during coherent-inelastic Coulomb interactions, and exhibit particle-like behavior for high electron energy losses.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ariful Haque, Yanming Liu, Saif Taqy, Jay Narayan
Summary: Researchers have successfully synthesized functional diamond microstructures and coatings, including diamond microfibers, microspheres, tubes, and thin films, using amorphous and graphitic carbon precursors via hot filament chemical vapor deposition. The characteristics of the microstructures depend on the initial carbon precursors and laser annealing pretreatments. Low-cost and abundant carbon precursors act as nucleation sites and accelerate diamond growth, while laser annealing further promotes nucleation and growth. The prepared diamond microstructures exhibit excellent diamond quality as confirmed by electron backscatter diffraction and Raman spectroscopy.
ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Pratik Joshi, Shubhangi Shukla, Siddharth Gupta, Naveen Joshi, Jagdish Narayan, Roger Narayan
Summary: We present a novel method using excimer laser to fabricate crystalline MoS2 nanoneedles. Laser annealing at a low energy density led to a closed-pack structure with low defects and excellent conductivity. Increasing the laser annealing energy density resulted in the formation of MoS2 nano-needles. The MoS2 nano-needles showed remarkable reduction ability for H2O2 and demonstrated low detection limit and high sensitivity.
MRS COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
