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We investigate the behavior of small water droplets impacting fabrics of different roughness and coating type in a range of impacting conditions, and compare it to measurements of static and roll-off angles. Fabrics with low roughness display lower static contact angle, no roll-off, a slightly slower retraction rate for impacting droplets, a narrower Weber number (We) range in which rebound occurs, and a limited maximum rebound at intermediate We. Rougher fabrics exhibit slightly higher static contact angles, lower roll-off angles, a slightly faster retraction rate for impacting droplets, and a larger We range for rebound; additionally, the restitution of kinetic energy upon rebound is proportional to 1/We, indicating a near-to-constant rebound height independent of the impact velocity. As regards coating type, roll-off angle, We range for rebound, and to a lesser extent restitution coefficient, depend on coating type, with the more environmentally-friendly wax-based coating being superior to silicone and perfluorobutyl-based ones in both drop impact and roll-off experiments. Our results thus provide hope that perfluorinated coatings can be eliminated in standard textiles, and provide an extensive view of how roughness, coating and impact conditions control the fate of small droplets falling on textiles.

Herein, a new route of sulfur grading in CuInSe2 (CISe) thin-film solar absorbers by introducing an ultrathin (<50 nm) sacrificial sputtered CuInS2 (CIS) layer on top of the CISe. Different CIS top layer compositions (Cu-poor to Cu-rich) are analyzed, before and after a high-temperature treatment in selenium (Se)- or selenium+sulfur (SeS)-rich atmospheres. An [S]/([S] + [Se]) grading from the surface into the bulk of the Se- and SeS-treated samples is observed, and evidence of the formation of a mixed CuIn(S,Se)2 phase by Raman analysis and X-ray diffraction is provided. The optical bandgap from quantum efficiency measurements of solar cells is increased from 1.00 eV for the CISe reference to 1.14 and 1.30 eV for the Se- and SeS-treated bilayer samples, respectively. A ≈150 mV higher VOC is observed for the SeS-treated bilayer sample, but the cell exhibits blocking characteristics resulting in lower efficiency as compared with the CISe reference. This blocking is attributed to an internal electron barrier at the interface to the sulfur-rich surface layer. The difference in reaction routes and possible ways to improve the developed sulfurization process are discussed.

Herein, a new route of sulfur grading in CuInSe2 (CISe) thin-film solar absorbers by introducing an ultrathin (<50 nm) sacrificial sputtered CuInS2 (CIS) layer on top of the CISe. Different CIS top layer compositions (Cu-poor to Cu-rich) are analyzed, before and after a high-temperature treatment in selenium (Se)- or selenium+sulfur (SeS)-rich atmospheres. An [S]/([S] + [Se]) grading from the surface into the bulk of the Se- and SeS-treated samples is observed, and evidence of the formation of a mixed CuIn(S,Se)2 phase by Raman analysis and X-ray diffraction is provided. The optical bandgap from quantum efficiency measurements of solar cells is increased from 1.00 eV for the CISe reference to 1.14 and 1.30 eV for the Se- and SeS-treated bilayer samples, respectively. A ≈150 mV higher VOC is observed for the SeS-treated bilayer sample, but the cell exhibits blocking characteristics resulting in lower efficiency as compared with the CISe reference. This blocking is attributed to an internal electron barrier at the interface to the sulfur-rich surface layer. The difference in reaction routes and possible ways to improve the developed sulfurization process are discussed.

Herein, a new route of sulfur grading in CuInSe2 (CISe) thin-film solar absorbers by introducing an ultrathin (<50 nm) sacrificial sputtered CuInS2 (CIS) layer on top of the CISe. Different CIS top layer compositions (Cu-poor to Cu-rich) are analyzed, before and after a high-temperature treatment in selenium (Se)- or selenium+sulfur (SeS)-rich atmospheres. An [S]/([S] + [Se]) grading from the surface into the bulk of the Se- and SeS-treated samples is observed, and evidence of the formation of a mixed CuIn(S,Se)2 phase by Raman analysis and X-ray diffraction is provided. The optical bandgap from quantum efficiency measurements of solar cells is increased from 1.00 eV for the CISe reference to 1.14 and 1.30 eV for the Se- and SeS-treated bilayer samples, respectively. A ≈150 mV higher VOC is observed for the SeS-treated bilayer sample, but the cell exhibits blocking characteristics resulting in lower efficiency as compared with the CISe reference. This blocking is attributed to an internal electron barrier at the interface to the sulfur-rich surface layer. The difference in reaction routes and possible ways to improve the developed sulfurization process are discussed.

Layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly is an attractive method for the immobilization of macromolecules at interfaces. Integrating proteins in LbL thin films is however challenging due to their polyampholyte nature. Recently, we developed a method to integrate lysozyme into multilayers using protein−polyelectrolytes complexes (PPCs). In this work, we extended this method to a wide range of protein−polyelectrolyte combinations. We demonstrated the robustness and versatility of PPCs as building blocks. LL-37, insulin, lysozyme, and glucose oxidase were complexed with alginate, poly(styrenesulfonate), heparin, and poly(allylamine hydrochloride). The resulting PPCs were then LbL self-assembled with chitosan, PAH, and heparin. We demonstrated that multilayers built with PPCs are thicker compared to the LbL selfassembly of bare protein molecules. This is attributed to the higher mass of protein in the multilayers and/or the more hydrated state of the assemblies. PPCs enabled the self-assembly of proteins that could otherwise not be LbL assembled with a PE or with another protein. Furthermore, the results also show that LbL with PPCs enabled the construction of multilayers combining different proteins, highlighting the formation of multifunctional films. Importantly, we show that the adsorption behavior and thus the multilayer growth strongly depend on the nature of the protein and polyelectrolyte used. In this work, we elaborated a rationale to help and guide the use of PPCs for protein LbL assembly. It will therefore be beneficial to the many scientific communities willing to modify interfaces with hard-to-immobilize proteins and peptides.

Herein, a new route of sulfur grading in CuInSe2 (CISe) thin-film solar absorbers by introducing an ultrathin (<50 nm) sacrificial sputtered CuInS2 (CIS) layer on top of the CISe. Different CIS top layer compositions (Cu-poor to Cu-rich) are analyzed, before and after a high-temperature treatment in selenium (Se)- or selenium+sulfur (SeS)-rich atmospheres. An [S]/([S] + [Se]) grading from the surface into the bulk of the Se- and SeS-treated samples is observed, and evidence of the formation of a mixed CuIn(S,Se)2 phase by Raman analysis and X-ray diffraction is provided. The optical bandgap from quantum efficiency measurements of solar cells is increased from 1.00 eV for the CISe reference to 1.14 and 1.30 eV for the Se- and SeS-treated bilayer samples, respectively. A ≈150 mV higher VOC is observed for the SeS-treated bilayer sample, but the cell exhibits blocking characteristics resulting in lower efficiency as compared with the CISe reference. This blocking is attributed to an internal electron barrier at the interface to the sulfur-rich surface layer. The difference in reaction routes and possible ways to improve the developed sulfurization process are discussed.

Herein, a new route of sulfur grading in CuInSe2 (CISe) thin-film solar absorbers by introducing an ultrathin (<50 nm) sacrificial sputtered CuInS2 (CIS) layer on top of the CISe. Different CIS top layer compositions (Cu-poor to Cu-rich) are analyzed, before and after a high-temperature treatment in selenium (Se)- or selenium+sulfur (SeS)-rich atmospheres. An [S]/([S] + [Se]) grading from the surface into the bulk of the Se- and SeS-treated samples is observed, and evidence of the formation of a mixed CuIn(S,Se)2 phase by Raman analysis and X-ray diffraction is provided. The optical bandgap from quantum efficiency measurements of solar cells is increased from 1.00 eV for the CISe reference to 1.14 and 1.30 eV for the Se- and SeS-treated bilayer samples, respectively. A ≈150 mV higher VOC is observed for the SeS-treated bilayer sample, but the cell exhibits blocking characteristics resulting in lower efficiency as compared with the CISe reference. This blocking is attributed to an internal electron barrier at the interface to the sulfur-rich surface layer. The difference in reaction routes and possible ways to improve the developed sulfurization process are discussed.

Langmuir monolayer is a unique tool to characterize the interface which describes the properties of insoluble monolayer on the sub-phase. Langmuir monolayers have demonstrated the characteristics of many macromolecules as well as amphiphilic molecules at the air-water interface. We evaluated physiochemical characteristics of monoolein lipid Langmuir monolayers on different sub-phases. Interfacial behaviour of monoolein lipid was investigated using Wilhelmy plate pressure sensor technique to generate Langmuir isotherms to explore the effects of interactions with different sub-phases. Various salts alter the surface pressure of the Langmuir monolayer isotherms without the alteration of monolayer phase transitions. The finding of the present work can be effectively used for development of suitable biomedical formulations to offer sufficient strength of coating film with controlled topology and thickness using Langmuir-Blodgett film deposition technique. Addition of the suitable biocompatible ions in to the sub-phase is very crucial for their favourable interfacial interaction with the lipid molecules.

Langmuir monolayer is a unique tool to characterize the interface which describes the properties of insoluble monolayer on the sub-phase. Langmuir monolayers have demonstrated the characteristics of many macromolecules as well as amphiphilic molecules at the air-water interface. We evaluated physiochemical characteristics of monoolein lipid Langmuir monolayers on different sub-phases. Interfacial behaviour of monoolein lipid was investigated using Wilhelmy plate pressure sensor technique to generate Langmuir isotherms to explore the effects of interactions with different sub-phases. Various salts alter the surface pressure of the Langmuir monolayer isotherms without the alteration of monolayer phase transitions. The finding of the present work can be effectively used for development of suitable biomedical formulations to offer sufficient strength of coating film with controlled topology and thickness using Langmuir-Blodgett film deposition technique. Addition of the suitable biocompatible ions in to the sub-phase is very crucial for their favourable interfacial interaction with the lipid molecules.

Promoting the martensitic transformation through optimum microalloying with Fe and/or Mn was observed to be an effective method to enhance the wear resistance of the Cu50Zr50 at% shape memory alloy (SMA). Among all the potential microelements and concentrations, partial replacement of Cu by up to 1 at% Fe and Mn is of interest since from density functional-based calculations, large minimization of the stacking fault energy (SFE) of the B2 CuZr phase is predicted. For this reason, an effective martensitic transformation is expected. The largest decrease of the SFE from 0.36 J/m(2) to 0.26 J/m(2) is achieved with partial replacement of Cu by 0.5 at% Fe. This results in the highest martensitic transformation upon wear testing, especially at highest load (15 N) for which the mass loss is 0.0123 g compared to 0.0177 g for Cu50Zr50 and a specific wear-rate of 5.9 mm(3)/Nm, compared to 8.5 for mm(3)/Nm for Cu50Zr50. This agrees with the low coefficient of friction of 0.48 +/- 0.05 and low roughness of 0.200 +/- 0.013 mu m of the Fe-containing alloy compared to that for Cu50Zr50, 0.55 and 0.415 +/- 0.026 mu m, respectively. All the worn surfaces show the formation of abrasive grooves, being shallowest for the more wear resistant 0.5 at% Fe alloy. The second more wear resistant alloy contains 0.5 at% Mn. Wear mechanisms of abrasion, adhesion, and delamination have been identified.

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are bilayer systems comprising a 7–8 wt% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) top coat deposited over a metallic bond coat. Suspension plasma spraying (SPS) is an advanced and attractive top coat processing technique due to its capability to yield a variety of microstructures, including the desired columnar microstructure for enhanced strain tolerance and durability. This work attempts to investigate the desirable microstructural features in an SPS processed TBCs to mitigate hot corrosion and minimize erosion related losses that are often responsible for coating degradation. SPS processed TBCs were deposited utilizing three different spray conditions to obtain distinct microstructural features (column density, interpass [IP] porosity bands, column width), porosity content, and mechanical properties. Apart from comprehensive characterization utilizing SEM, XRD and micro-indentation tests, the as-deposited TBCs were subjected to hot-corrosion tests in the presence of vanadium pentoxide and sodium sulfate as corrosive salts. Post-corrosion analysis revealed complete infiltration of the molten salts in all the investigated TBCs. However, the delamination cracks generated due to the infiltrated corrosive species were minimal in case of TBCs with higher fracture toughness. The differences in microstructure and mechanical properties also led to differences in erosion performance, with TBCs possessing minimal total porosity content and high fracture toughness best resisting erosion related damage. Post-erosion analysis revealed that the TBCs with higher fracture toughness and micro-hardness showed superior erosion resistance. Based on the erosion and corrosion results and subsequent post-mortem of failed specimens, plausible damage mechanisms are proposed. Findings from this work provide new insights on developing damage tolerant TBCs microstructures with enhanced durability when exposed to erosion and hot corrosion environments.

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are bilayer systems comprising a 7–8 wt% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) top coat deposited over a metallic bond coat. Suspension plasma spraying (SPS) is an advanced and attractive top coat processing technique due to its capability to yield a variety of microstructures, including the desired columnar microstructure for enhanced strain tolerance and durability. This work attempts to investigate the desirable microstructural features in an SPS processed TBCs to mitigate hot corrosion and minimize erosion related losses that are often responsible for coating degradation. SPS processed TBCs were deposited utilizing three different spray conditions to obtain distinct microstructural features (column density, interpass [IP] porosity bands, column width), porosity content, and mechanical properties. Apart from comprehensive characterization utilizing SEM, XRD and micro-indentation tests, the as-deposited TBCs were subjected to hot-corrosion tests in the presence of vanadium pentoxide and sodium sulfate as corrosive salts. Post-corrosion analysis revealed complete infiltration of the molten salts in all the investigated TBCs. However, the delamination cracks generated due to the infiltrated corrosive species were minimal in case of TBCs with higher fracture toughness. The differences in microstructure and mechanical properties also led to differences in erosion performance, with TBCs possessing minimal total porosity content and high fracture toughness best resisting erosion related damage. Post-erosion analysis revealed that the TBCs with higher fracture toughness and micro-hardness showed superior erosion resistance. Based on the erosion and corrosion results and subsequent post-mortem of failed specimens, plausible damage mechanisms are proposed. Findings from this work provide new insights on developing damage tolerant TBCs microstructures with enhanced durability when exposed to erosion and hot corrosion environments.

The study of chemical processes on solid surfaces is a powerful tool to discover novel physicochemical concepts with direct implications for processes based on chemical reactions at surfaces, largely exploited by industry. Recent upgrades of experimental tools and computational capabilities, as well as the advent of two-dimensional materials, have opened new opportunities and challenges for surface science. In this Perspective, we highlight recent advances in application fields strictly connected to novel concepts emerging in surface science. Specifically, we show for selected case-study examples that surface oxidation can be unexpectedly beneficial for improving the efficiency in electrocatalysis (the hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction) and photocatalysis, as well as in gas sensing. Moreover, we discuss the adsorption-assisted mechanism in membrane distillation for seawater desalination, as well as the use of surface-science tools in the study of Li-ion batteries. In all these applications, surface-science methodologies (both experimental and theoretical) have unveiled new physicochemical processes, whose efficiency can be further tuned by controlling surface phenomena, thus paving the way for a new era for the investigation of surfaces and interfaces of nanomaterials. In addition, we discuss the role of surface scientists in contemporary condensed matter physics, taking as case-study examples specific controversial debates concerning unexpected phenomena emerging in nanosheets of layered materials, solved by adopting a surface-science approach. © the Owner Societies 2020.

A new functionalization method was developed with the aim of producing stable TiO2-based colloids starting from commercial Evonik Aeroxide P25 powder. The stability of P25 colloids was efficiently increased by grafting 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA) on the P25 surface. Results highlighted that 4-HBA interacted with the surface of P25 through its carboxylic group. The key parameter for an optimized stability is the 4-HBA/P25 ratio. If the amount of 4-HBA is too high compared to the TiO2 available surface, 4-HBA molecules preferentially interact with each other, therefore reducing their adsorption on P25. Eight different amounts of 4-HBA were grafted on P25, producing stable colloids in both ethanol and water medium. In both media, the optimal properties and highest stability were obtained for a 4-HBA/TiO2 mass ratio equal to 0.333. This optimal sample was further tested and compared to pure P25 (used as reference material) for p-nitrophenol (PNP) degradation under UV-visible light without any stirring to highlight the beneficial effect of the powder stability. The photocatalytic results showed that the grafted sample reached a degradation up to 8 times higher than pure P25. This functionalization method is easy to implement and stabilizes colloids starting from any pre-synthesized powder. This versatility widens the field of applications, and opens the door for further developments in areas such as coatings.

Cold spray allows for fabricating metal matrix composites or repairing damaged components in a scalable way with a high deposition rate. Nevertheless, the poorly bonded interfaces (both metallic splats/splats and metallic splats/reinforcements) and pores in the composite deposit result in undesirable mechanical performance, which limits its applications for load-bearing components. In this study, a special designed composite powder reinforced with in-situ TiB2 particles was used as the feedstock to produce TiB2/AlSi10Mg composite components by cold spray additive manufacturing. Following this, the effect of post-annealing treatment on interfaces and micro-pores healing, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties of the cold sprayed TiB2/AlSi10Mg composites was investigated in terms of X-ray diffraction, electron backscatter diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and tensile test. The cold sprayed composite exhibited a bimodal structure with ultrafine grains formed at the inter-splat boundaries due to dynamic recrystallization induced by intensive plastic deformation of the particles. In addition to the uniformly dispersed TiB2 nanoparticles, some aggregated clusters remained embedded in the Al matrix. Tensile tests revealed that the as-sprayed deposits possessed very high tensile strength but almost no toughness due to the poorly bonded inter-splats and enhanced work hardening effect. Significant improvement in ductility was achieved in the annealed samples through improvement of metallurgical bonding between the deformed splats, release of residual stress, and static recrystallization. Interestingly, when the annealing temperature was increased up to 500 °C, both the pure AlSi10Mg and TiB2/AlSi10Mg composite samples fractured at a very early stage due to the presence of large pores (>20 µm) which may originate from the moisture of initial powders. The in-situ formed TiB2 nanoparticles play an important role in strengthening the Al matrix, meanwhile

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are bilayer systems comprising a 7–8 wt% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) top coat deposited over a metallic bond coat. Suspension plasma spraying (SPS) is an advanced and attractive top coat processing technique due to its capability to yield a variety of microstructures, including the desired columnar microstructure for enhanced strain tolerance and durability. This work attempts to investigate the desirable microstructural features in an SPS processed TBCs to mitigate hot corrosion and minimize erosion related losses that are often responsible for coating degradation. SPS processed TBCs were deposited utilizing three different spray conditions to obtain distinct microstructural features (column density, interpass [IP] porosity bands, column width), porosity content, and mechanical properties. Apart from comprehensive characterization utilizing SEM, XRD and micro-indentation tests, the as-deposited TBCs were subjected to hot-corrosion tests in the presence of vanadium pentoxide and sodium sulfate as corrosive salts. Post-corrosion analysis revealed complete infiltration of the molten salts in all the investigated TBCs. However, the delamination cracks generated due to the infiltrated corrosive species were minimal in case of TBCs with higher fracture toughness. The differences in microstructure and mechanical properties also led to differences in erosion performance, with TBCs possessing minimal total porosity content and high fracture toughness best resisting erosion related damage. Post-erosion analysis revealed that the TBCs with higher fracture toughness and micro-hardness showed superior erosion resistance. Based on the erosion and corrosion results and subsequent post-mortem of failed specimens, plausible damage mechanisms are proposed. Findings from this work provide new insights on developing damage tolerant TBCs microstructures with enhanced durability when exposed to erosion and hot corrosion environments.

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are bilayer systems comprising a 7–8 wt% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) top coat deposited over a metallic bond coat. Suspension plasma spraying (SPS) is an advanced and attractive top coat processing technique due to its capability to yield a variety of microstructures, including the desired columnar microstructure for enhanced strain tolerance and durability. This work attempts to investigate the desirable microstructural features in an SPS processed TBCs to mitigate hot corrosion and minimize erosion related losses that are often responsible for coating degradation. SPS processed TBCs were deposited utilizing three different spray conditions to obtain distinct microstructural features (column density, interpass [IP] porosity bands, column width), porosity content, and mechanical properties. Apart from comprehensive characterization utilizing SEM, XRD and micro-indentation tests, the as-deposited TBCs were subjected to hot-corrosion tests in the presence of vanadium pentoxide and sodium sulfate as corrosive salts. Post-corrosion analysis revealed complete infiltration of the molten salts in all the investigated TBCs. However, the delamination cracks generated due to the infiltrated corrosive species were minimal in case of TBCs with higher fracture toughness. The differences in microstructure and mechanical properties also led to differences in erosion performance, with TBCs possessing minimal total porosity content and high fracture toughness best resisting erosion related damage. Post-erosion analysis revealed that the TBCs with higher fracture toughness and micro-hardness showed superior erosion resistance. Based on the erosion and corrosion results and subsequent post-mortem of failed specimens, plausible damage mechanisms are proposed. Findings from this work provide new insights on developing damage tolerant TBCs microstructures with enhanced durability when exposed to erosion and hot corrosion environments.

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are bilayer systems comprising a 7–8 wt% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) top coat deposited over a metallic bond coat. Suspension plasma spraying (SPS) is an advanced and attractive top coat processing technique due to its capability to yield a variety of microstructures, including the desired columnar microstructure for enhanced strain tolerance and durability. This work attempts to investigate the desirable microstructural features in an SPS processed TBCs to mitigate hot corrosion and minimize erosion related losses that are often responsible for coating degradation. SPS processed TBCs were deposited utilizing three different spray conditions to obtain distinct microstructural features (column density, interpass [IP] porosity bands, column width), porosity content, and mechanical properties. Apart from comprehensive characterization utilizing SEM, XRD and micro-indentation tests, the as-deposited TBCs were subjected to hot-corrosion tests in the presence of vanadium pentoxide and sodium sulfate as corrosive salts. Post-corrosion analysis revealed complete infiltration of the molten salts in all the investigated TBCs. However, the delamination cracks generated due to the infiltrated corrosive species were minimal in case of TBCs with higher fracture toughness. The differences in microstructure and mechanical properties also led to differences in erosion performance, with TBCs possessing minimal total porosity content and high fracture toughness best resisting erosion related damage. Post-erosion analysis revealed that the TBCs with higher fracture toughness and micro-hardness showed superior erosion resistance. Based on the erosion and corrosion results and subsequent post-mortem of failed specimens, plausible damage mechanisms are proposed. Findings from this work provide new insights on developing damage tolerant TBCs microstructures with enhanced durability when exposed to erosion and hot corrosion environments.

Combining drugs is an efficient tool in fighting bacterial infections. It has been proven to enable an increased antimicrobial activity compared to mono-drug therapies. Current commercial dressings for treatment of infected wounds provide delivery of one drug only. Therefore, there is an obvious need to develop a technology enabling incorporation and release of two and more actives. Ideally, such technology should prevent potential cross-reactions between the drugs during long-term storage. Here, a concept of drug compartmentalization within distinct glycerol domains of glycerol-silicone elastomer membranes is presented. Multiple drugs are encapsulated within different types of glycerol domains hampering any cross-reactions. The drugs are simultaneously released upon contact with aqueous media and the release kinetics can be precisely adjusted by tuning various material parameters, such as glycerol content and membrane thickness. Ultimately, the drug release capabilities and the antimicrobial potential are evaluated against a variety of bacteria in an agar diffusion assay. The membranes are proven effective against different bacterial species, which confirms the efficiency of release even at minimum moisture levels. The glycerol-silicone platform technology enables delivery of virtually unlimited combinations of drugs from different drug families (e.g., antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pain relief agents) facilitating new ways of treating wound disorders.

Porous GaN epitaxial layers were prepared using single-step chemical vapor deposition (CVD) through the direct reaction of ammonia with gallium. The degree of porosity and pore diameters in the resulting GaN were analyzed by means of SEM and AFM and were found to depend on the GaN deposition time. Furthermore, the evolution of the contact angle of a droplet of water located on the surface of these GaN epitaxial layers with the deposition time was investigated. We observe a transition from the hydrophilic regime to the hydrophobic regime for deposition times longer than 15 min. The observed dependence of GaN hydrophobicity on its degree of porosity is discussed and explained in the framework of the Cassie-Baxter model.

Recently, layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials have attracted increasing attention in various environmental applications. They offer the advantages of relatively simple synthesis methods, low fabrication cost, possession of reasonable specific surface area, high catalytic activity, great anion exchange capacity and good thermal stability. Therefore, these materials have been tested in a wide range of applications such as absorbents, catalysts, additives for polymer composites, sensors and supercapacitors. Several researches have been devoted to develop the preparation routes of LDH in order to improve the potentiality of these solids to decontaminate water by photocatalytic process, and enhance their photocatalytic performances for energy storage applications specifically water splitting. This study provides an overview of the researches from recent studies done on different common synthesis methods of LDH, including the co-precipitation, ion-exchange, reconstruction, hydrothermal and sol-gel methods. A few approaches have been investigated for LDH modification such as polyol method, exfoliation/restacking, solvothermal and microwave techniques. In addition, this study aims to gives insight on the recent applications of LDH in heterogeneous photocatalysis process for the degradation of organic pollutants, water splitting for H-2 and O-2 production and discuss the ability of LDH in the pathogen's inactivation.

To meet the future need for clean and sustainable energies, there has been considerable interest in the development of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that scavenge waste mechanical energies. The performance of a TENG at the macroscale is determined by the multifaceted role of surface and interface properties at the nanoscale, whose understanding is critical for the future development of TENGs. Therefore, various protocols from the atomic to the macrolevel for fabrication and tuning of surfaces and interfaces are required to obtain the desired TENG performance. These protocols branch out into three categories: chemical engineering, physical engineering, and structural engineering. Chemical engineering is an affordable and optimal strategy for introducing more surface polarities and higher work functions for the improvement of charge transfer. Physical engineering includes the utilization of surface morphology control, and interlayer interactions, which can enhance the active interfacial area and electron transfer capacity. Structural engineering at the macroscale, which includes device and electrode design/modifications has a considerable effect on the performance of TENGs. Future challenges and promising research directions related to the construction of next-generation TENG devices, taking into consideration “interfaces” are also presented., QC 20201116

Germanium is particularly suitable for the design of FTIR-based biosensors for proteins. The grafting of stable and thin organic layers on germanium surfaces remains, however, challenging. To tackle this problem, we developed a calix[4]arene–tetradiazonium salt decorated with four oligo(ethylene glycol) chains and a terminal reactive carboxyl group. This versatile molecular platform was covalently grafted on germanium surfaces to yield robust ready-to-use surfaces for biosensing applications. The grafted calixarene monolayer prevents nonspecific adsorption of proteins while allowing bioconjugation with biomolecules such as bovine serum albumin (BSA) or biotin. It is shown that the native form of the investigated proteins was maintained upon immobilization. As a proof of concept, the resulting calix[4]arene-based germanium biosensors were used through a combination of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy for the selective detection of streptavidin from a complex medium. This study opens real possibilities for the development of sensitive and selective FTIR-based biosensors devoted to the detection of proteins.

The active layer of the bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic cells is typically based on a polymeric blend containing a donor polymer and a fullerene-based polymer electron acceptor. However, in the last decade non-fullerene polymer-based solar cells have seen a rapid progress, due to their extraordinary chemical, thermal and photo stability, and because of their ability to decrease the voltage loss. The conventional Organic Photovoltaic Cells (OPVs), structures based on either P3HT:PCBM bulk heterojunction (BHJ) polymeric blend or P3HT/PCBM bilayer heterojunction, have limited efficiency and stability, in principal due to the fullerene derivatives used as acceptor component. PCBM for example, as many other fullerene derivatives, exhibits some deficiencies, such as: limited chemical and energetic tunability, small range of absorption spectra, morphological instability and relatively high production costs. That is why in the last years, novel non-fullerene materials started to be used in order to overcome the above limits associated with the fullerene acceptors. In this paper two different non-fullerene acceptor materials have been tested as potential candidates for the efficient OPVs based on P3HT donor polymer as main absorber: a new conjugated polymer containing chelating ligands like 1,10-Phenanthroline (Phen), and a small-molecule acceptor like 5,10,15,20-Tetra(4-pyridyl)-21H,23H-porphine (TPyP). For both cell configurations a decrease of the voltage loss was obtained, and it was also observed that the thickness of the P3HT donor layer has an important contribution to the output power (Pmax) and fill factor (FF) of the OPV structures (FF and Pmax increased almost two times by decreasing the thickness of the P3HT donor layer).

Interfaces and surfaces are ubiquitous in people’s daily life and they play a pivotal role in many research fields such as molecular electronics, photovoltaics, and environmental chemistry. However, due to the lack of interface-specific probes, there are plenty of questions remain unsolved for interfaces. During the past few decades, thanks to the development of ultrafast pulsed laser technology, nonlinear spectroscopy has merged to be a powerful technique to characterize the properties of interfaces. In this dissertation, several novel nonlinear spectroscopic methods will be discussed and used to perform static as well as kinetic study of interfaces. First, the major emphasis of this dissertation is to understand the electronic structure and charge transfer dynamics at the interface formed by an organic semiconductor – poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) and a metal – gold or an inorganic semiconductor – silicon. Using the interface specific sum frequency generation spectroscopy (SFG), a method of measuring the band gap of buried interfaces is established. The result demonstrates that the electronic structure at buried interface differs from that of the bulk. By combining the transient absorption spectroscopy and vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy, the first dynamical electric-field-induced VSFG signal is observed and for the first time, a spectroscopic evidence of direct electron transfer at complex polymer/metal interfaces is presented. Aided by heterodyne detection, a phase rotation approach has been established to disentangle the pure molecular response from the electronic nonresonance to interfacial charge transfer. The first fourth order three-dimensional SFG spectroscopy (3D SFG) is introduced and used to measure the interstate vibrational coherences from a Re(diCN-bpy)(CO)3Cl monolayer adsorbed on gold surface. It is learned that the surface attachment induces both homogeneous and inhomogeneous dephasing dynamics of the vibrational

This work presents a simple, fast (20 min treatment), inexpensive, and highly efficient method for synthesizing nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide (N-TiO2) as an enhanced visible light photocatalyst. In this study, N-TiO2 coatings were fabricated by atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at room temperature. The composition and the chemical bonds of the TiO2 and N-TiO2 coatings were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS). The results indicate that the nitrogen element has doped the TiO2 lattice, which was further confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD). The doping mechanism was investigated using OES to study the plasma properties under different conditions. It suggests that the NH radicals play a key role in doping TiO2. The concentration of nitrogen in the N-TiO2 coatings can be controlled by changing the concentration of NH3 in the plasma or the applied power to adjust the concentration of NH radicals in the plasma. The band gap of N-TiO2 was reduced after NH3/Ar plasma treatment from 3.25 to 3.18 eV. Consequently, the N-TiO2 coating showed enhanced photocatalytic activity under white-light-emitting-diode (LED) irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation rate for the N-TiO2 coating was about 1.4 times higher than that of the undoped TiO2 coating.

The development of sturdy enzyme-containing hydrophilic coatings is important for applications such as water purification or biological sensing. Here, we investigate the encapsulation of a model enzyme (beta-lactamase, BlaP) into aluminosilicate halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), and their subsequent use for the fabrication of enzymatic coatings by Layer-by-Layer (LbL) assembly. Highly stable suspensions of enzymatically-active halloysite nanotubes were obtained by alkaline treatment of HNTs, followed by enzyme adsorption into the lumen of the nanotubes and of poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) onto their outer surface. Bioactive thin films based on the LbL-assembly of these modified nanotubes with negatively-charged alginate provided coatings with a significantly higher enzymatic activity compared to films in which the enzyme is not incorporated in the nanotubes. The obtained results show that the encapsulation of an enzyme in halloysite nanotubes is a viable route towards stable bioactive coatings, which could be easily adapted to entrap other types of biomacromolecules with the aim of preparing thin films for air or effluent decontamination.

Phenol‐paraphenylenediamine (P‐pPDA) benzoxazines exhibit excellent barrier properties, adequate to protect aluminum alloys from corrosion, and constitute interesting candidates to replace chromate‐containing coatings in the aeronautical industry. For the successful application of P‐pPDA coatings, it is necessary to decrease the curing temperature to avoid the delamination of the coating while preserving the mechanical properties of the alloy, as well as the barrier properties of the coating. However, decreasing the curing temperature leads to less polymerized films, the extent of which requires a quantitative assessment. While the conversion rate of the polymerization reaction is commonly evaluated for bulk samples using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), a tool for its evaluation in thin films is missing. Therefore, a new approach was developed for that matter using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS). The relation between the SIMS data integrated from inside thin films and the DSC results obtained on bulk samples with the same curing cycle allowed to calibrate the SIMS data. With this preliminary calibration of the technique, the polymerization of PpPDA coatings can be locally determined, at the surface and along the depth of the coating, using dual‐beam depth profiling with large argon cluster beam sputtering.

Über die besonders hohe Effizienz von Halid-Perowskit (HaP)-basierten optoelektronischen Bauteilen wurde bereits in der Literatur berichtet. Um die Entwicklung dieser Bauteile voranzutreiben, ist ein umfassendes und verlässliches Verständnis derer elektronischen Struktur, sowie der Energielevelanordnung (ELA) an HaP Grenzflächen von größter Bedeutung. Demzufolge beschäftigt sich die vorliegende Arbeit mit der Untersuchung i) der Bandstruktur von Perowskit-Einkristallen, um ein solides Fundament für die Darlegung der elektronischen Eigenschaften von polykristallinen Dünnschichten zu erarbeiten, und mit ii) den Einflüssen von Oberflächenzuständen auf die elektronische Struktur der Oberfläche, sowie deren Rolle bei der Kontrolle von ELA an HaP Grenzflächen. Die Charakterisierung erfolgt überwiegend mithilfe von Photoelektronenspektroskopie (PES) und ergänzenden Messmethoden wie Beugung niederenergetischer Elektronen an Oberflächen, UV-VIS-Spektroskopie, Rasterkraftmikroskopie und Kelvin-Sonde. Erstens weist die Banddispersion von zwei prototypischen Perowskit-Einkristallen eine starke Dispersion des jeweiligen oberen Valenzbandes (VB) auf, dessen globales Maximum in beiden Fällen am R-Punkt in der Brillouin-Zone liegt. Dabei wird eine effektive Lochmasse von 0.25 m0 für CH3NH3PbBr3, bzw. von ~0.50 m0 für CH3NH3PbI3 bestimmt. Basierend auf diesen Ergebnissen werden die elektronischen Spektren von polykristallinen Dünnschichten konstruiert und es wird dadurch aufgezeigt, dass eine Bestimmung der Valenzbandkantenposition ausgehend von einer logarithmischen Intensitätsskala aufgrund von geringer Zustandsdichte am VB Maximum vorzuziehen ist. Zweitens stellt sich bei der Untersuchung der elektronischen Struktur von frisch präparierten Perowskit-Oberflächen heraus, dass die n-Typ Eigenschaft eine Folge der Bandverbiegung ist, welche durch donatorartige Oberflächenzustände hervorgerufen wird. Des Weiteren weisen die PES-Messungen an Perowskiten mit unterschiedlichen Zusammense, Optoelectronic devices based on halide perovskites (HaPs) and possessing remarkably high performance have been reported. To push the development of such devices even further, a comprehensive and reliable understanding of their electronic structure, including the energy level alignment (ELA) at HaPs interfaces, is essential but presently not available. In an attempt to get a deep insight into the electronic properties of HaPs and the related interfaces, the work presented in this thesis investigates i) the fundamental band structure of perovskite single crystals, in order to establish solid foundations for a better understanding the electronic properties of polycrystalline thin films and ii) the effects of surface states on the surface electronic structure and their role in controlling the ELA at HaPs interfaces. The characterization is mostly performed using photoelectron spectroscopy, together with complementary techniques including low-energy electron diffraction, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe measurements. Firstly, the band structure of two prototypical perovskite single crystals is unraveled, featuring widely dispersing top valence bands (VB) with the global valence band maximum at R point of the Brillouin zone. The hole effective masses there are determined to be ~0.25 m0 for CH3NH3PbBr3 and ~0.50 m0 for CH3NH3PbI3. Based on these results, the energy distribution curves of polycrystalline thin films are constructed, revealing the fact that using a logarithmic intensity scale to determine the VB onset is preferable due to the low density of states at the VB maximum. Secondly, investigations on the surface electronic structure of pristine perovskite surfaces conclude that the n-type behavior is a result of surface band bending due to the presence of donor-type surface states. Furthermore, due to surface photovoltage effect, photoemission measurements on different perovskite compositions exhibit excitation-intensity depen

Interfaces and surfaces are ubiquitous in people’s daily life and they play a pivotal role in many research fields such as molecular electronics, photovoltaics, and environmental chemistry. However, due to the lack of interface-specific probes, there are plenty of questions remain unsolved for interfaces. During the past few decades, thanks to the development of ultrafast pulsed laser technology, nonlinear spectroscopy has merged to be a powerful technique to characterize the properties of interfaces. In this dissertation, several novel nonlinear spectroscopic methods will be discussed and used to perform static as well as kinetic study of interfaces. First, the major emphasis of this dissertation is to understand the electronic structure and charge transfer dynamics at the interface formed by an organic semiconductor – poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) and a metal – gold or an inorganic semiconductor – silicon. Using the interface specific sum frequency generation spectroscopy (SFG), a method of measuring the band gap of buried interfaces is established. The result demonstrates that the electronic structure at buried interface differs from that of the bulk. By combining the transient absorption spectroscopy and vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy, the first dynamical electric-field-induced VSFG signal is observed and for the first time, a spectroscopic evidence of direct electron transfer at complex polymer/metal interfaces is presented. Aided by heterodyne detection, a phase rotation approach has been established to disentangle the pure molecular response from the electronic nonresonance to interfacial charge transfer. The first fourth order three-dimensional SFG spectroscopy (3D SFG) is introduced and used to measure the interstate vibrational coherences from a Re(diCN-bpy)(CO)3Cl monolayer adsorbed on gold surface. It is learned that the surface attachment induces both homogeneous and inhomogeneous dephasing dynamics of the vibrational

Über die besonders hohe Effizienz von Halid-Perowskit (HaP)-basierten optoelektronischen Bauteilen wurde bereits in der Literatur berichtet. Um die Entwicklung dieser Bauteile voranzutreiben, ist ein umfassendes und verlässliches Verständnis derer elektronischen Struktur, sowie der Energielevelanordnung (ELA) an HaP Grenzflächen von größter Bedeutung. Demzufolge beschäftigt sich die vorliegende Arbeit mit der Untersuchung i) der Bandstruktur von Perowskit-Einkristallen, um ein solides Fundament für die Darlegung der elektronischen Eigenschaften von polykristallinen Dünnschichten zu erarbeiten, und mit ii) den Einflüssen von Oberflächenzuständen auf die elektronische Struktur der Oberfläche, sowie deren Rolle bei der Kontrolle von ELA an HaP Grenzflächen. Die Charakterisierung erfolgt überwiegend mithilfe von Photoelektronenspektroskopie (PES) und ergänzenden Messmethoden wie Beugung niederenergetischer Elektronen an Oberflächen, UV-VIS-Spektroskopie, Rasterkraftmikroskopie und Kelvin-Sonde. Erstens weist die Banddispersion von zwei prototypischen Perowskit-Einkristallen eine starke Dispersion des jeweiligen oberen Valenzbandes (VB) auf, dessen globales Maximum in beiden Fällen am R-Punkt in der Brillouin-Zone liegt. Dabei wird eine effektive Lochmasse von 0.25 m0 für CH3NH3PbBr3, bzw. von ~0.50 m0 für CH3NH3PbI3 bestimmt. Basierend auf diesen Ergebnissen werden die elektronischen Spektren von polykristallinen Dünnschichten konstruiert und es wird dadurch aufgezeigt, dass eine Bestimmung der Valenzbandkantenposition ausgehend von einer logarithmischen Intensitätsskala aufgrund von geringer Zustandsdichte am VB Maximum vorzuziehen ist. Zweitens stellt sich bei der Untersuchung der elektronischen Struktur von frisch präparierten Perowskit-Oberflächen heraus, dass die n-Typ Eigenschaft eine Folge der Bandverbiegung ist, welche durch donatorartige Oberflächenzustände hervorgerufen wird. Des Weiteren weisen die PES-Messungen an Perowskiten mit unterschiedlichen Zusammense, Optoelectronic devices based on halide perovskites (HaPs) and possessing remarkably high performance have been reported. To push the development of such devices even further, a comprehensive and reliable understanding of their electronic structure, including the energy level alignment (ELA) at HaPs interfaces, is essential but presently not available. In an attempt to get a deep insight into the electronic properties of HaPs and the related interfaces, the work presented in this thesis investigates i) the fundamental band structure of perovskite single crystals, in order to establish solid foundations for a better understanding the electronic properties of polycrystalline thin films and ii) the effects of surface states on the surface electronic structure and their role in controlling the ELA at HaPs interfaces. The characterization is mostly performed using photoelectron spectroscopy, together with complementary techniques including low-energy electron diffraction, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe measurements. Firstly, the band structure of two prototypical perovskite single crystals is unraveled, featuring widely dispersing top valence bands (VB) with the global valence band maximum at R point of the Brillouin zone. The hole effective masses there are determined to be ~0.25 m0 for CH3NH3PbBr3 and ~0.50 m0 for CH3NH3PbI3. Based on these results, the energy distribution curves of polycrystalline thin films are constructed, revealing the fact that using a logarithmic intensity scale to determine the VB onset is preferable due to the low density of states at the VB maximum. Secondly, investigations on the surface electronic structure of pristine perovskite surfaces conclude that the n-type behavior is a result of surface band bending due to the presence of donor-type surface states. Furthermore, due to surface photovoltage effect, photoemission measurements on different perovskite compositions exhibit excitation-intensity depen

Proteins at interfaces are a key for many applications in the biomedical field, in biotechnologies, in biocatalysis, in food industry, etc. The development of surface layers that allow to control and manipulate proteins is thus highly desired. In previous works, we have shown that mixed polymer brushes combining the protein-repellent properties of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and the stimuli-responsive adsorption behavior of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) could be synthesized and used to achieve switchable protein adsorption. With the present work, we bring more insight into the rational design of such smart thin films by unravelling the role of PEO on the adsorption/desorption of proteins. The PEO content of the mixed PEO/PAA brushes was regulated, on the one hand, by using PEO with different molar masses and, on the other hand, by varying the ratio of PEO and PAA in the solutions used to synthesize the brushes. The influence of ionic strength on the protein adsorption behavior was also further examined. The behavior of three proteins—human serum albumin, lysozyme, and human fibrinogen, which have very different size, shape, and isoelectric point—was investigated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, quartz crystal microbalance, atomic force microscopy, and streaming potential measurements were used to characterize the mixed polymer brushes and, in particular, to estimate the fraction of each polymer within the brushes. Protein adsorption and desorption conditions were selected based on previous studies. While brushes with a lower PEO content allowed the higher protein adsorption to occur, fully reversible adsorption could only be achieved when the PEO surface density was at least 25 PEO units per nm2. Taken together, the results increase the ability to finely tune protein adsorption, especially with temporal control. This opens up possibilities of applications in biosensor design, separation technologies, nanotransport, etc.

The precipitation of calcium carbonate from hard water, commonly known as calcification or scaling, is a widespread nuisance. To avoid scaling, a physical or chemical pretreatment of water is often employed, such as ion exchange, addition of complexing agents, or the use of magnetic and electric fields. Our approach is to construct surfaces to which calcium carbonate crystals do not adhere. Here, we show that by the use of particular copolymer additives, polyethylene can be made lime repellent. The copolymers have the formula: polyethylene-block-poly(ethylene glycol) and are compounded into the polyethylene. Twelve such additives were investigated and three displayed anticalcification activity. The effective copolymers were investigated by mass spectrometry. Infrared spectroscopy of copolymer/polyethylene blends revealed that the concentration of the additive in the matrix correlates to a specific absorption band. Stability tests against hot water showed that the anticalcification activity was maintained over the timeframe investigated.

Biosensors that can determine protein concentration and structure are highly desired for biomedical applications. For the development of such biosensors, the use of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with the attenuated internal total reflection (ATR) configuration is particularly attractive, but it requires appropriate surface functionalization of the ATR optical element. Indeed, the surface has to specifically interact with a target protein in close contact with the optical element and must display antifouling properties to prevent nonspecific adsorption of other proteins. Here, we report robust monolayers of calix[4]arenes bearing oligo(ethylene glycol) (oEG) chains, which were grafted on germanium and gold surfaces via their tetradiazonium salts. The formation of monolayers of oEGylated calix[4]arenes was confirmed by AFM, IR, and contact angle measurements. The antifouling properties of these modified surfaces were studied by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy, and the nonspecific absorption of bovine serum albumin was found to be reduced by 85% compared to that of unmodified germanium. In other words, the organic coating by oEGylated calix[4]arenes provides remarkable antifouling properties, opening the way for the design of germanium- or gold-based biosensors.

The precipitation of calcium carbonate from hard water, commonly known as calcification or scaling, is a widespread nuisance. To avoid scaling, a physical or chemical pretreatment of water is often employed, such as ion exchange, addition of complexing agents, or the use of magnetic and electric fields. Our approach is to construct surfaces to which calcium carbonate crystals do not adhere. Here, we show that by the use of particular copolymer additives, polyethylene can be made lime repellent. The copolymers have the formula: polyethylene-block-poly(ethylene glycol) and are compounded into the polyethylene. Twelve such additives were investigated and three displayed anticalcification activity. The effective copolymers were investigated by mass spectrometry. Infrared spectroscopy of copolymer/polyethylene blends revealed that the concentration of the additive in the matrix correlates to a specific absorption band. Stability tests against hot water showed that the anticalcification activity was maintained over the timeframe investigated.

Poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) (PCL) is explored in tissue engineering (TE) applications due to its biocompatibility, processability, and appropriate mechanical properties. However, its hydrophobic nature and lack of functional groups in its structure are major drawbacks of PCL‐based scaffolds limiting appropriate cell adhesion and proliferation. In this study, silk fibroin (SF) was immobilized on the surface of electrospun PCL nanofibers via covalent bonds in order to improve their hydrophilicity. To this end, the surface of PCL nanofibers was activated by ultraviolet (UV)–ozone irradiation followed by carboxylic functional groups immobilization on their surface by their immersion in acrylic acid under UV radiation and final immersion in SF solution. Furthermore, morphological, mechanical, contact angle, and Attenuated total reflection‐ Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) were measured to assess the properties of the surface‐modified PCL nanofibers grafted with SF. ATR‐FTIR results confirmed the presence of SF on the surface of PCL nanofibers. Moreover, contact angle measurements of the PCL nanofibers grafted with SF showed the contact angle of zero indicating high hydrophilicity of modified nanofibers. In vitro cell culture studies using NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblasts confirmed enhanced cytocompatibility, cell adhesion, and proliferation of the SF‐treated PCL nanofibers.

Present work concerns to the study of the dynamic mechanical and thermal responses of selected polypropylene (iPP)/ mica composites with a modified interface from the matrix side by using a p-phenylen-bis-maleamic acid grafted atactic polypropyl- ene, coming from a byproduct of industrial polymerization reactors. Thus, the study is mainly focused on the 75/25 iPP/mica ratio since it was identified in previous works as providing the maximum inter mica particle distance to assure they should participate in the overall process of dissipation of the mechanical energy supplied to the composites. Hence, the present dynamic mechanical analy- sis discussion tries to correlate the damping responses of the injection-molded composites with those previously obtained but over compression molded composites as the basis of further studies all along the compositional iPP/mica map. Therefore, the latter let us, on the one hand, to follow how the main values of the different dynamic mechanical analysis parameters vary because of the interfa- cial modifier presence, and on the other, to develop a robust correlation between them and the corresponding macroscopic mechani- cal parameters

The present article is twofold. One of the purposes of this work lies in the study of the impact behavior of the polypropylene/mica system incorporating an interface modifier obtained from an industrial polymerization byproduct. The interface agent used was a p-phenylen-bis-maleamic grafted atactic polypropylene (aPP-pPBMA) obtained in our labs. The other objective is to obtain a mathematical model capable of forecasting the composite properties accurately. Consequently, this work has been undertaken by using a statistical Box-Wilson experimental design in order to model the behavior of the composite system in terms of Charpy impact parameters. Two independent variables have been considered, the amount of mica particles and of interface agent. Impact strength, maximum force, and deformation were the dependent variables in the models. The existence of critical values in mica and interface agent optimizing the impact behavior is established. Additionally, an excellent correlation between the impact strength and the strength results coming from flexural and tensile tests is found. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44619.

In this work yttrium and lead thin films have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition technique and characterized by ex situ different diagnostic methods. All the films were adherent to the substrates and revealed a polycrystalline structure. Y films were uniform with a very low roughness and droplet density, while Pb thin films were characterized by a grain morphology with a relatively high roughness and droplet density. Such metallic materials are studied because they are proposed as a good alternative to copper and niobium photocathodes which are generally used in radiofrequency and superconducting radiofrequency guns, respectively. The photoemission performances of the photocathodes based on Y and Pb thin films have been also studied and discussed., Funding agencies: Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN); Italian Ministry of Research [RBFR12NK5 k]; Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Functional Materials at Linkoping University (Faculty Grant SFO-Mat-LiU) [2009-00971]

In this work yttrium and lead thin films have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition technique and characterized by ex situ different diagnostic methods. All the films were adherent to the substrates and revealed a polycrystalline structure. Y films were uniform with a very low roughness and droplet density, while Pb thin films were characterized by a grain morphology with a relatively high roughness and droplet density. Such metallic materials are studied because they are proposed as a good alternative to copper and niobium photocathodes which are generally used in radiofrequency and superconducting radiofrequency guns, respectively. The photoemission performances of the photocathodes based on Y and Pb thin films have been also studied and discussed., Funding agencies: Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN); Italian Ministry of Research [RBFR12NK5 k]; Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Functional Materials at Linkoping University (Faculty Grant SFO-Mat-LiU) [2009-00971]

A method of antibacterial modification of the polyurethane (PU) surface is presented in this article. An electrospun PU membrane with an incorporated antibacterial agent was applied as a coating of the PU sheets. As an antibacterial agent, a hybrid bimetallic filler was used; it combined the antibacterial effects of silver and zinc oxide. With an electrospun submicrometer-fiber membrane, the filler was uniformly and thinly applied on the PU surface by compression molding. The antibacterial activities of three filler concentrations were tested, and they demonstrated an effective antibacterial action against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

In this work yttrium and lead thin films have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition technique and characterized by ex situ different diagnostic methods. All the films were adherent to the substrates and revealed a polycrystalline structure. Y films were uniform with a very low roughness and droplet density, while Pb thin films were characterized by a grain morphology with a relatively high roughness and droplet density. Such metallic materials are studied because they are proposed as a good alternative to copper and niobium photocathodes which are generally used in radiofrequency and superconducting radiofrequency guns, respectively. The photoemission performances of the photocathodes based on Y and Pb thin films have been also studied and discussed., Funding agencies: Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN); Italian Ministry of Research [RBFR12NK5 k]; Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Functional Materials at Linkoping University (Faculty Grant SFO-Mat-LiU) [2009-00971]

A method of antibacterial modification of the polyurethane (PU) surface is presented in this article. An electrospun PU membrane with an incorporated antibacterial agent was applied as a coating of the PU sheets. As an antibacterial agent, a hybrid bimetallic filler was used; it combined the antibacterial effects of silver and zinc oxide. With an electrospun submicrometer-fiber membrane, the filler was uniformly and thinly applied on the PU surface by compression molding. The antibacterial activities of three filler concentrations were tested, and they demonstrated an effective antibacterial action against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

In this work yttrium and lead thin films have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition technique and characterized by ex situ different diagnostic methods. All the films were adherent to the substrates and revealed a polycrystalline structure. Y films were uniform with a very low roughness and droplet density, while Pb thin films were characterized by a grain morphology with a relatively high roughness and droplet density. Such metallic materials are studied because they are proposed as a good alternative to copper and niobium photocathodes which are generally used in radiofrequency and superconducting radiofrequency guns, respectively. The photoemission performances of the photocathodes based on Y and Pb thin films have been also studied and discussed., Funding agencies: Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN); Italian Ministry of Research [RBFR12NK5 k]; Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Functional Materials at Linkoping University (Faculty Grant SFO-Mat-LiU) [2009-00971]

In this work yttrium and lead thin films have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition technique and characterized by ex situ different diagnostic methods. All the films were adherent to the substrates and revealed a polycrystalline structure. Y films were uniform with a very low roughness and droplet density, while Pb thin films were characterized by a grain morphology with a relatively high roughness and droplet density. Such metallic materials are studied because they are proposed as a good alternative to copper and niobium photocathodes which are generally used in radiofrequency and superconducting radiofrequency guns, respectively. The photoemission performances of the photocathodes based on Y and Pb thin films have been also studied and discussed., Funding agencies: Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN); Italian Ministry of Research [RBFR12NK5 k]; Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Functional Materials at Linkoping University (Faculty Grant SFO-Mat-LiU) [2009-00971]

Rolling contact fatigue (RCF) damage is becoming more frequent with increased traffic, accelerations, and loading conditions in the railway industry. Defects which are characterized by a two-lobe darkened surface and a V-shaped surface-breaking crack are defined as squats. The origination and propagation of squats in railway rails is the topic of many recent studies; the associated crack networks develop with complicated geometry near the surface of rails, but can be difficult to detect and distinguish from normally existing head checks in their early stages, using in-field non-destructive detection techniques. After cutting out damaged sections of rail, there are a number of options to characterize the damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate different methods to geometrically describe squat crack networks; through X-ray radiography complemented with geometrical reconstruction, metallography, X-ray tomography, and topography measurements. The experiments were performed on squats from rail sections taken from the field. In the first method, high-resolution and high-energy X-ray images exposed through the entire rail head from a range of angles were combined using a semi-automated image analysis method for geometrical reconstruction, and a 3D representation of the complex crack network was achieved. This was compared with measurements on cross-sections after repeated metallographic sectioning to determine the accuracy of prediction of the geometrical reconstruction. A second squat was investigated by X-ray tomography after extraction of a section of the rail head. A third squat was opened by careful cutting, which gave full access to the crack faces, and the topography was measured by stylus profilometry. The high-energy X-ray, 3D reconstruction method showed accurate main crack geometry at medium depths; the advantage of the method being that it potentially could be developed for non-destructive testing in field. However significant drawbacks exist due to limit

© 2016 Elsevier B.V. We report the synthesis of palladium nanoparticle (NP) decorated WO 3 nanoneedles (NNs) employing a single-step, aerosol assisted chemical vapor deposition approach. Two different Pd precursors were investigated in view of optimizing the morphology and the gas sensing performance of the resulting nanostructured films. In particular, palladium acetylacetonate was found to be more suitable than ammonium hexachloropalladate for obtaining n-type WO 3 NNs uniformly decorated with well dispersed p-type PdO NPs. The active films could be directly deposited on the electrode area of microelectromechanical system-based resistive transducers. The morphology and chemical composition of the films was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. PdO-decorated WO 3 NNs show a response toward hydrogen that is about 680 times higher than that of bare WO 3 NNs. Finally, PdO-loaded sensors display extremely low-cross sensitivity to water vapor, which makes them remarkably immune to changes in the background humidity.