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Pairing transition metals and heavier tetrylenes (Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) holds great potential for cooperative bond activation and catalysis. In this work, we investigate the reactivity of a low-coordinate Pt(0)/Ge(II) system that emerges from the reaction between the monoligated platinum(0) precursor [(PMe2ArDipp2)Pt(olefin)] with germylene dimer [ArDipp2GeCl]2 (where ArDipp2 = C6H3−2,6-(C6H3−2,6-iPr2)2). The resulting complex reveals ability for cooperative bond activation. Stoichiometric reactions with dihydrogen, water, methanol, ammonia and alkynes unveil the formation of Pt(II)-germyl compounds, characterized by distinct isomeric forms, whose flexibility derives from the particularly low-coordination. We explore its catalytic potential in the hydrodehalogenation of aliphatic, aromatic and main-group halides under dihydrogen atmosphere using both thermal and photochemical conditions, demonstrating promising conversions even for more challenging alkyl chlorides. Pairing transition metals and heavier tetrylenes holds potential for cooperative bond activation. Here, the authors investigate the reactivity of a low-coordinate Pt(0)/Ge(II) system that emerges from the reaction between a monoligated platinum(0) precursor with a germylene dimer and explore its application as a hydrodehalogenation catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the dependence of irradiation fluence and pulse duration on the non–thermal alloying of Cu and Sn through laser irradiation. Femtosecond and picosecond laser irradiation were applied to the GaN part of a bilayer of Cu and Sn deposited on GaN. The laser beam operated at a wavelength and repetition rate of 1030 nm and 1 MHz, respectively, with pulse durations of 0.65 and 38 ps. Subsequently, the irradiated samples were thinned using a focused ion beam, and the cross-sections were examined with transmission electron microscopy. The lattice constants of the resultant phases were identified from selected area diffraction patterns. In data analysis, we identified the phases as β-Sn and ε-phases first, if discernible within a 5% error margin, employing high-temperature phases when identification was not possible. In the irradiated area, only Cu and Sn were detected under a lower fluence and shorter pulse duration. However, δ-phases, which are alloys of Cu and Sn, formed at relatively higher fluences and longer pulse durations. This high-temperature phase, unique to picosecond laser irradiation, cannot be obtained through conventional thermodynamic processes, highlighting the unique capabilities of laser-induced processing in creating novel alloy phases. These findings advance our understanding of laser-material interactions and provides a foundation for developing advanced materials with tailored properties for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanocomposite hydrogel Co([CHITOSAN-AMPS-AA]/PEI-MBA) was synthesized using silica and graphene oxide nanoparticles by a free radical polymerization method. The hydrogel was used to adsorb tin and platinum from wastewater produced during production of a commercial dehydrogenation process. The adsorbed platinum could be selectively released from the adsorbing hydrogel platinum. Various tests including FTIR, XRD, TGA, and Rheology were conducted to identify the hydrogel's three-dimensional structure. The adsorption performance was evaluated using ICP, SEM, and EDS tests. The ability of hydrogel for multiple adsorptions was also assessed. The thermodynamical study and adsorption isotherms were investigated, and the possible structure of the synthesized adsorbing hydrogel was presented. The results showed that while the hydrogel could adsorb platinum physically in three consecutive cycles from wastewater, tin is chemically adsorbed during the process. The physically-adsorbed platinum could then be released selective. The adsorption isotherm of platinum and tin ions followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model while the adsorption rate represented a pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The hydrogel had an adsorption capacity of 263.16 mg/g for platinum and 188.88 mg/g for tin with the Gibbs free energy of − 1710.86 J/mol and − 4521.08 J/mol, respectively. It was found that the hydrogel can be reused for practical and large-scale wastewater treatment as less than 10% decrease in the adsorption capacity was observed after three consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pristine tin (Sn) and tin dioxide (SnO2) have sparked wide interest owing to their abundant resources and superior theoretical capacity. Nevertheless, the obvious volume expansion effect upon cycling and undesirable conductivity of Sn-based materials lead to undesirable specific capacity. In this work, a nanostructured Sn/SnO2/nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) superstructure was prepared through a facile electrospray-carbonization strategy. The Sn/SnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were uniformly dispersed in a spherical NC matrix, which prevented the volume expansion and aggregation of NPs and facilitated the ion diffusion and charge transfer kinetics. When the optimized Sn/SnO2/NC superstructures were employed as lithium-ion battery anodes, a remarkable specific capacity of 747.9 mAh·g−1 over 200 cycles at 0.5 A·g−1 and a superior cyclability of 644.1 mAh·g−1 over 1000 cycles at 2 A·g−1 were obtained. This effective synthetic strategy for synthesizing superstructures provides valuable insights for the advancement of lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the tribological characteristics of TiN, AlTiN, and AlTiCrN coatings sliding against a SUS420J1 stainless steel pin were investigated in atmospheric and vacuum environments. The coatings were deposited on SUS440C substrates using the arc-physical vapor deposition technique. The friction and wear behavior of the coatings were evaluated based on the systematic analyses of the friction coefficient data as well as the physical and chemical state of the wear track. The results revealed that the friction coefficients of the SUS440C specimen and AlTiCrN coatings increased, whereas those of the TiN and AlTiN coatings decreased when the environment was changed from atmospheric to vacuum. It was confirmed that the formation of an oxide layer and adsorption of oxides on the surface were dominant factors that influenced the tribological behavior in the atmospheric environment. On the other hand, the compatibility, oxidation inhibition, and droplets of the surface mainly affected the frictional characteristics in the vacuum environment. The results of this work are expected to aid in the selection of proper coating materials for tribological systems operating in a vacuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) uses radionuclides that decay via one of three therapeutically relevant decay modes (alpha, beta, and internal conversion (IC) / Auger electron (AE) emission) to deliver short range, highly damaging radiation inside of diseased cells, maintaining localized dose distribution and sparing healthy cells. Antimony-119 (119Sb, t1/2 = 38.19 h, EC = 100%) is one such IC/AE emitting radionuclide, previously limited to in silico computational investigation due to barriers in production, chemical separation, and chelation. A theranostic (therapeutic/diagnostic) pair can be formed with 119Sb's radioisotopic imaging analogue 117Sb (t1/2 = 2.80 h, Eγ = 158.6 keV, Iγ = 85.9%, β+ = 262.4 keV, Iβ+ = 1.81%). Results: Within, we report techniques for sustainable and cost-effective production of pre-clinical quality and quantity, radionuclidically pure 119Sb and 117Sb, novel low energy photon measurement techniques for 119Sb activity determination, and physical yields for various tin target isotopic enrichments and thicknesses using (p, n) and (d, n) nuclear reactions. Additionally, we present a two-column separation providing a radioantimony yield of 73.1% ± 6.9% (N = 3) and tin separation factor of (6.8 ± 5.5) x 105 (N = 3). Apparent molar activity measurements for deuteron produced 117Sb using the chelator TREN-CAM were measured at 42.4 ± 25 MBq 117Sb/µmol (1.14 ± 0.68 mCi/µmol), and we recovered enriched 119Sn target material at a recycling efficiency of 80.2% ± 5.5% (N = 6) with losses of 11.6 mg ± 0.8 mg (N = 6) per production. Conclusion: We report significant steps in overcoming barriers in 119Sb production, chemical isolation and purification, enriched target material recycling, and chelation, helping promote accessibility and application of this promising therapeutic radionuclide. We describe a method for 119Sb activity measurement using its low energy gamma (23.87 keV), negating the need for attenuation correction. Finally, we report the largest yet-measured 119Sb production yields using proton and deuteron irradiation of natural and enriched targets and radioisotopic purity > 99.8% at end of purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D perovskites hold immense promise in optoelectronics due to their strongly bound electron-hole pairs (i.e., excitons). While exciton polaron from interplay between exciton and lattice has been established in 2D lead-based perovskites, the exciton nature and behavior in the emerging 2D tin-based perovskites remains unclear. By combining spin-resolved ultrafast spectroscopy and sophisticated theoretical calculations, we reveal 2D tin-based perovskites as genuine excitonic semiconductors with weak polaronic screening effect and persistent Coulomb interaction, thanks to weak exciton-phonon coupling. We determine an excited state exciton binding energy of ~0.18 eV in n = 2 tin iodide perovskites, nearly twice of that in lead counterpart, despite of same large value of ~0.2 eV from steady state measurement. This finding emphasizes the pivotal role of excited state polaronic effect in these materials. The robust excitons in 2D tin-based perovskites exhibit excitation power-insensitive, high-efficiency and color-purity emission, rendering them superior for light-emitting applications. Combining spin-resolved ultrafast spectroscopy and calculations, Zhou et al. report weak exciton-phonon interactions in 2D tin iodide perovskites, alleviating excited state polaronic screening effect and robust excitons, comparing to their lead counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of scrap could cause continuous enrichment of Sn in steels. To reveal the influences of Sn on the mechanical properties and microstructure evolution of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels, HSLA steels with varying Sn contents were designed and a series of continuous cooling tests were conducted. The results show that the effect of Sn on microhardness is mainly affected by the cooling rate. Under cooling rates lower than 10 °C/s, the addition of Sn increases the microhardness due to the solid solution strengthening effect of Sn. The ferrite grain size decreases with the increase of Sn content at a cooling rate of 0.1 °C/s because of the possible solute drag effect of Sn, while no refining effect was found for cooling rates between 0.5 °C/s and 10 °C/s. Under cooling rates higher than 10 °C/s, Sn reduces the ferrite and bainite transformation start temperatures and increases the bainite and martensite phase fractions. The higher hard phase fraction with increasing Sn content results in a significant increase in microhardness, and the contribution of solid solution strengthening plays a supplementary role under this condition. As one of the major residual elements in scrap, the strengthening and hardenability increasing effects of Sn should not be overlooked and may even be properly utilized in alloy design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of substituting Sn with a fourth element on the functional properties of Heusler NiMnSn alloys has been reported in the literature. In the present work, the influence of the addition of Si to the Heusler NiMnSn system was evaluated, where Ni44Mn44Sn12 (at.%), Ni44Mn44Sn10.5Si1.5 (at.%) and Ni44Mn44Sn9Si3 (at.%) alloys were prepared in an induction furnace without a controlled atmosphere, and were later characterized by optical microscopy, Vickers microhardness, electrical resistivity, and vibrating sample magnetometry. The results revealed that the partial replacement of Sn by 3 at.% Si did not modify the dendritic microstructure and the phases present at room temperature; however, it increased the percentage of the martensite phase from 51% to 76%. This modification in the percentage of this phase is responsible for reducing the average Vickers microhardness values (from 469 HV to 459 HV), increasing the electrical resistivity (from 1.3 mΩ mm to 2.21 mΩ mm), and decreasing the saturation magnetization (from 23.67 emu/g to 19.34 emu/g), coercivity (from 5.56 Oe to 5.14 Oe), and remanent magnetization (from 0.21 emu/g to 0.18 emu/g). With this, our results bring to light a new alternative for doping the NiMnSn alloy as a way of modifying the structural and electrical properties, constituting interesting parameters for technological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This correction notice is for an article titled "Synchronized crystallization in tin-lead perovskite solar cells" published in Nature Communications. The correction addresses an error in Figure 1 of the article, specifically the incorrect labels in the Fig. 1b plot. The correct labels should be "Sn 5s" and "Pb 6s" instead of "Sn 5p" and "Pb 6p". The correction has been made in both the PDF and HTML versions of the article. The authors of the article are Yao Zhang, Chunyan Li, Haiyan Zhao, Zhongxun Yu, Xiaoan Tang, Jixiang Zhang, Zhenhua Chen, Jianrong Zeng, Peng Zhang, Liyuan Han, and Han Chen. [Extracted from the article]

The influence of co-regulating Mo and Sn on the corrosion resistance of low alloy steel in tropical marine atmospheric was investigated. The combined addition of Mo and Sn has been found to significantly improve the corrosion resistance of low alloy steel, augmenting the protective capabilities of the rust layer. This combined addition promotes the formation of protective compounds like α-FeOOH and FeCr2O4 within the alloy rust layer. Furthermore, it facilitates the conversion of Cr, Ni and Cu into corrosion-resistant oxides such as Cr2O3, NiFe2O4 and CuO, thereby enhancing the density of the rust layer. Additionally, as corrosion progresses over time, higher levels of Sn addition lead to increased Sn content within the inner rust layer, consequently bolstering the protective qualities of the rust layer. This comprehensive understanding sheds light on the synergistic effects of Mo and Sn in fortifying the corrosion resistance of low alloy steel, offering insights for the development of advanced corrosion-resistant materials in marine environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study aimed to explore the relationships between urinary metals and vital capacity index (VCI) in 380 children and adolescents in Northeast China using a variety of statistical methods. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 380 children and adolescents in Liaoning Province, China. To assess the relationships between urinary metals and VCI, Elastic-net (ENET) regression, multivariate linear regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS), bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and quantile-based g computation (qgcomp) were adopted. Results: The ENET model selected magnesium (Mg), vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), arsenic (As), tin (Sn) and lead (Pb) as crucial elements. In multiple linear regression, we observed urinary Pb, Mn was negatively correlated with VCI individually in both total study population and adolescents (all p values < 0.05) in the adjustment model. The WQS indices were negatively related with VCI in total study population (β=-3.19, 95%CI: -6.07, -0.30) and adolescents (β=-3.46, 95%CI: -6.58, -0.35). The highest weight in total study population was Pb (38.80%), in adolescents was Mn (35.10%). In the qgcomp, Pb (31.90%), Mn (27.20%) were the major negative contributors to the association in the total population (β=-3.51, 95%CI: -6.29, -0.74). As (42.50%), Mn (39.90%) were the main negative contributors (β=-3.95, 95% CI: -6.68, -1.22) among adolescents. The results of BKMR were basically consistent with WQS and qgcomp analyses. Conclusions: Our results indicated that Pb and Mn were priority toxic materials on VCI. The cumulative effect of metals was negatively related to VCI, and this relationship was more pronounced in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of Sn dopant on microstructure and magnetic properties of large-scale produced MnBi1 − xSnx (x = 0; 0.05; 0.10; 0.15; 0.20; 0.25) melt-spun ribbons were systematically investigated. With increasing Sn content, the MnBi LTP fraction within the produced ribbons exhibited a decreasing trend, associated with the formation of the Mn3Sn phase. The doped Sn atoms also affected the quenching process, altering the ribbons' microstructures from the grain-like to rod-shaped. The optimized composition was found to be MnBi0.95Sn0.05, which was used to fabricate MnBi-based magnets. Maximum energy products of 12.9 MGOe, 8.1 MGOe, and coercivities of 14.8 kOe, 6.7 kOe were obtained for the MnBi0.95Sn0.05 melt-spun annealed ribbons and magnets prepared from them, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ternary half-Heusler (HH) alloys are under intense investigations recently towards achieving high thermoelectric (TE) figure-of-merit (ZT). Of particular interest is the ZrNiPb-based HH alloy, where an optimal value of ZT ~ 0.7 at 773 K has been achieved by co-doping Sn and Bi at Pb site. In this work, we identify an excellent ZT of 1.3 in ZrNi1+xPb0.38Sn0.6Bi0.02 (x = 0.03, at 773 K) composite alloy. This is achieved by synergistic modulation of electronic as well as thermal properties via introduction of minor phase of full-Heusler (FH) in the HH matrix through compositional tuning approach. These Ni-rich ZrNi1+xPb0.38Sn0.6Bi0.02 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.07) alloys were synthesized via energy efficient and time-curbed techniques that involved Arc melting followed by consolidation via spark plasma sintering. These alloys were characterized by XRD and SEM, which show formation of nanocomposites comprising of HH matrix phase and FH secondary minor phases. Enhancement in ZT is mainly attributed to a synchronized increase in power factor (~42%) and ~25% decrease in its thermal conductivity. Here, TE compatibility factor (S) was also calculated for all samples. The value of |S| ~ 2.7 V−1 (at 773 K) is observed for x = 0.03, which is ~17% higher than bare HH composition (x = 0.0). The theoretically calculated TE device efficiency of best-performing sample ZrNi1.03Pb0.38Sn0.6Bi0.02 is estimated to be η ~ 13.6%. Our results imply that deliberately controlled fine tuning in compositions of HH compounds through compositional tuning approach would lead to novel off-stoichiometric HH phases with enhanced ZT value for efficient TE device fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial activities on the banks of waterways can degrade both the waterbody and the surrounding area and continue to exert pressure on the environment even after the closure of the industries involved. An assessment was undertaken to determine concentration, distribution, mobility and ecological risk of potentially toxic elements (PTE) from legacy contamination in sediments of the Forth and Clyde Canal, UK. Concentrations of PTE, determined by ICP-MS following aqua regia digestion, were 5.54–219 mg kg−1 for As, < 0.025–11.0 mg kg−1 for Cd, 44.8–883 mg kg−1 for Cr, 39.3–618 mg kg−1 for Cu, 35.8–72.1 g kg−1 for Fe, 720–4460 mg kg−1 for Mn, 42.0–154 mg kg−1 for Ni, 93.9–2740 mg kg−1 for Pb, 5.36–122 mg kg−1 for Sn and 288–3640 mg kg−1 for Zn. With the exception of Fe and Mn, higher levels were observed at urban locations than at rural. Enhanced Cr, Pb and Sn content at suburban locations could be attributed to historical industrial activities on the canal bank, while widespread distribution of As and Pb was consistent with atmospheric deposition. In the inner-city area, sediment quality was severely deteriorated, and the potential ecological risk was very high. Fractionation patterns, determined using the modified BCR sequential extraction, indicated a particularly high risk of mobilization for Cd, Mn and Zn, and the highest exchangeable fraction risk from Zn. The research highlights the need to assess and, where necessary, manage legacy contaminated sites in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of Si is known to improve the oxidation resistance of pure titanium and titanium alloys. However, most past studies concern the influence of relatively large Si contents (0.35–8 wt%), which is often incompatible with a good ductility because of the presence of Ti5Si3 precipitates. This study focuses on the influence of the Si content on the high-temperature resistance of near-alpha alloys from the family of Ti6244 alloy (6% Al, 2% Sn, 4% Zr 4% Mo–wt%) with small proportions of Si. The silicon addition was found to improve the high-temperature oxidation resistance of near-alpha Ti-Al-Sn-Zr-Mo family alloys by decreasing the oxidation rate and the oxide scale thickness, as well by producing a denser oxide scale. Rutile and alumina were detected within the oxide scale by XRD and Raman spectrometry. The presence of Si is associated with the presence of larger quantities of N at the oxide/metal interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnTe, the lead-free and environmentally friendly material, has gained recognition as a low band-gap thermoelectric material. However, it encounters challenges due to the presence of a significant concentration of intrinsic tin vacancies and its extremely small band gap of 0.18 eV. These factors contribute to a low Seebeck coefficient (S) and high electronic thermal conductivity. These challenges can be overcome by tuning the band gap of SnTe which enhance its thermoelectric behaviour. In our study, we investigate the thermoelectric properties of the bulk SnTe by systematically increasing the band gap while keeping the carrier concentration fixed. By varying the band gap from 0.14 to 0.8 eV, we observe significant enhancements in the thermoelectric performance of the material. Specifically, the power factor reaches a value of 420 μ W cm - 1 K - 2 and the electronic thermal conductivity decreases to 2.3 W m - 1 K - 1 when the band gap is 0.8 eV and the carrier concentration is 10 18 cm - 3 . Moreover, the figure of merit (ZT) value of SnTe can be improved up to 15 times. This study can motivate further experimental investigation on interesting compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of titanium nitride (TiN) on AISI D2 tool steel, analyzing coating properties and TiN nanoparticle stability in the presence of polyethyleneimine as a dispersant in isopropyl alcohol. The parameters investigated were deposition time (5, 10, and 15 minutes), electric field strength (0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 V/m), and suspension concentration (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 mg/L). Results indicated that a deposition time of 10 minutes with an electric field strength of 0.5 V/m and a suspension concentration of 0.2 mg/L provided optimal results in terms of thickness and micro-hardness. Higher deposition time led to increased thickness but decreased micro-hardness, while increasing electric field intensity for a constant deposition time led to increased deposition mass and thickness but lower quality at higher concentrations. Microstructural examination and micro-hardness testing confirmed these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subgrains and recrystallisation are common microstructural features in solder joints that have been subjected to thermal fatigue or mechanical loading. Here we study similar features in Sn-Ag and Sn-Ag-Cu solder balls after solidification. It is shown that four types of misorientation features exist to different extents in solder balls examined shortly after solidification: (i) small variations in orientation created by dendrite growth and eutectic solidification, (ii) partial polygonisation into subgrains, (iii) small grains with high angle boundaries and (iv) large anomalous grains surrounded by interlacing where the grain boundaries do not correlate with the dendrite growth pattern. The subgrains often have a boundary plane and rotation axis consistent with dislocations from a facile slip system. The recovery and misorientation features were more extensive in regions that solidified at deeper melt undercooling. The findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between the solidification and solid-state components of microstructure evolution when interpreting solder microstructures after solidification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystals of a new high-symmetry structural modification of Cs2HIn(IO3)6 which crystallizes in sp. gr. R with the unit cell parameters a = 11.8999(4) Å, c = 11.6513(5) Å, was obtained under hydrothermal conditions. The crystal-chemical comparison with the previously characterized triclinic modification of this compound was carried out. Both structures are composed of isolated [In(IO3)6]3– blocks. The new modification belongs to the family of trigonal iodates isostructural with the compound K2Ge(IO3)6. The local symmetry of individual [M(IO3)6] blocks (M = Ge, Ti, Sn, Ga, In, and some other metals) was analyzed. The structural systematics of iodate families was proposed based on the comparative crystal-chemical analysis. The influence of the cation composition and the synthesis conditions on the symmetry and topology of the crystal structures and the effect of the local symmetry of individual blocks on the physical properties of the compounds are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strength distributions of charge exchange spin-dipole excitations are calculated in the continuum quasiparticle random-phase approximation based on the Fayans density functional with modified isovector part. An impact of the isovector parameter of the DF3-f functional on the strength functions of charge-exchange spin-dipole excitations ( , , ) are studied for Pb, Sn and Zr. The sum rules are calculated using both ground state radii and direct integration of the total SD strength distributions. A comparison with the experimental SD sum rule in Zr gives one a possibility to check previously estimated values which described well the recent combined estimate for in Pb and corresponding equation of state parameters – symmetry energy and a slope parameter . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-consistent method for studying second-order anharmonic effects on the basis of many-body quantum field theory is applied for the first time in calculating probabilities for 1 transitions between the ground state and the two-phonon state in the semimagic tin isotopes Sn. The approach used involves taking into account (i) self-consistency of the nuclear mean field and effective interaction on the basis of the energy density functional method with the parameters of the Fayans functional DF3-a, which were earlier found to provide good results; (ii) ground-state three-quasiparticle correlations; and (iii) nuclear-polarizablility effects. Good agreement with available experimental data, including those for Sn, is obtained. Values of ( 1) are predicted for Sn even–even nuclei. It is shown that dynamical ground-state three-quasiparticle correlations make a substantial contribution to the reduced probabilities for the 1 transitions in question, so that their inclusion is necessary for explaining experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We performed theoretical exploration of the stability of the Cu-based bimetallic Cu13-xMx and Cu55-xMx (x = 1–12 and M = In, Sn, Sb, Ni) nanoalloys. We focused on their geometrical structure, stability, and electronic properties. In the present study, we are interested in exploring the best suitable candidates that might be used for future catalytic studies. Indium atoms, preferentially, assemble on the edge site of the CuIn nanoparticle, while the Ni atoms prefer to be inside the CuNi nanoparticles. In addition, a core containing Ni atoms is found to be energetically more stable. Sn and Sb atoms refrain from being positioned inside the nanoparticles; they rather prefer to be located at their corners. Bader charge analysis showed that the outer layer atoms of all nanoparticles carry negative charges. This indicates that the charge accumulates on the surface. The density of states analysis showed that the doping by the Ni atoms has a significant impact on the electronic structure of the pure Cu55 cluster, due to the overlap of the Cu and Ni atoms 3d orbitals, while the alloying by the In, Sn, and Sb atoms brought no considerable vestige on the electronic structure of this substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiN is an inevitable inclusion in high-titanium steel, and controlling its size and distribution is the key to balancing the wear resistance and service life of high-titanium steel. In this paper, the precipitation and distribution behavior of TiN in high-titanium steel ([Ti] > 0.4 wt pct) during near-continuous casting solidification were investigated using a self-developed dendritic horizontal growth thermal simulation device. The precipitation density of TiN was greater in the chill zone than in the stable growth zone (columnar zone), and TiN was mainly distributed in the secondary dendritic arms in the chill zone and mushy zone, while in the columnar zone, the quantity proportion of TiN distributed in the dendritic gaps increased. Moreover, the size distribution of TiN changes from unimodal to bimodal as solidification progresses. The equivalent diameter of TiN tends to increase with solidification time and then stabilizes at approximately 5 μm. The effects of the cooling rate on the growth rate and size of TiN are also revealed by using a modified model, which indicates that as the cooling rate increases from 0.5 °C/s to 100 °C/s, the final size of TiN decreases from 10.93 μm to approximately 0.77 μm. Moreover, thermodynamic calculations also indicated a significant impact of TiN precipitation on the localized N content during the solidification process. All the results indicate that reducing the N content and increasing the cooling rate are effective ways to reduce the TiN size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A printed circuit board (PCB) is an essential and central component of electronic waste and comprises majorly valuable metallic values (Sn, Pb, Cu). This study utilizes a short, fast-heating, low-temperature pyrolysis process to recover value-added tin-based alloy from spent cathode ray tube (CRT) PCB. The optimized process condition (550 °C, 10 minutes) resulted in ~ 62 wt pct solid, ~ 8.5 wt pct oil, and ~ 29.5 wt pct gas products. Sn recovery of ~ 75 pct in the Pb-Sn metallic droplet form with the purity of Sn + Pb ~ 85.2 pct at 550 °C within 10 minutes is obtained. Sn-based alloy does not form at 400 °C due to incomplete decomposition of the polymeric fraction and limited surface tension, as revealed by characterization. At higher temperatures (550 °C), the molten alloy spreads over the PCB Cu tracks due to enhanced wetting force, leading to diffusion of Sn in Cu and separation of Pb. The diffusion of Sn in Cu leads to the formation of intermetallics (Cu3Sn, Cu6Sn5) at higher residence times and temperatures, inhibiting the recovery of the alloy. Further, the quenching causes spinodal decomposition, leading to a zebra stripe pattern in the alloy, and XPS confirmed the absence of Br in the alloy. The organic functional group disappears from the residual solid char with temperature, as revealed by FT-IR. The gaseous product comprises CH4, CO, CH3OH, C2H6, C2H4, and CO2 with gross heating value of ~ 310 kJ/m3. The pyrolyzed oil comprised ~ 60 pct phenol and phenolic compounds and can be re-utilized for synthesizing phenolic resins and epoxy resin. ~ 0.19 kg of Sn-based alloy (~ 85.2 pct purity) can be recovered from 1 kg of PCB as a feedstock for the tin-making industry and soldering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystals of a new high-symmetry structural modification of Cs2HIn(IO3)6 which crystallizes in sp. gr. R with the unit cell parameters a = 11.8999(4) Å, c = 11.6513(5) Å, was obtained under hydrothermal conditions. The crystal-chemical comparison with the previously characterized triclinic modification of this compound was carried out. Both structures are composed of isolated [In(IO3)6]3– blocks. The new modification belongs to the family of trigonal iodates isostructural with the compound K2Ge(IO3)6. The local symmetry of individual [M(IO3)6] blocks (M = Ge, Ti, Sn, Ga, In, and some other metals) was analyzed. The structural systematics of iodate families was proposed based on the comparative crystal-chemical analysis. The influence of the cation composition and the synthesis conditions on the symmetry and topology of the crystal structures and the effect of the local symmetry of individual blocks on the physical properties of the compounds are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezocatalysis is considered as an evolving technology based on the piezoelectric properties of catalysts, has shown great potential in the field of environmental remediation, water splitting, and biotechnology. In this work, the catalytic performance of (Ba0.95Ca0.05) (Ti1-xSnx)O3 (BCT1-xSx, 0.04 ≤ x ≤ 0.12) piezoelectric ceramics was studied systematically. The relationship between piezoelectric performance and piezo-photocatalytic performance was investigated. As the Sn content increased, the crystalline structure gradually changed from the orthorhombic (O) phase (x = 0.04) to O-pseudocubic (PC) two-phase coexistence (x = 0.08 and x = 0.10), and finally to the PC phase (x = 0.12). The piezoelectric constant d33 exhibited an initial increases followed by a decreases with rising Sn content, reaching peak of 509pC/N at x = 0.10. The enhanced d33 was due to multiphase coexistence and a Curie temperature near room temperature. The piezocatalytic efficacy of BCT1-xSx was linked to d33, with the maximum degradation rate achieved at x = 0.10. However, the optimal piezo-photocatalytic performance was obtained at x = 0.08 instead of x = 0.10 with the highest degradation rate of 69%. The photo-piezocatalytic performance was discovered to be intricately linked not only to the band gap of piezocatalysts but also influenced by their piezoelectric properties. These results will provide guidance for designing new lead-free piezoelectric materials with excellent catalytic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnO2 is considered a promising anode candidate for both lithium-ion batteries. Herein, we designed a novel construction of SiO2@C@SnO2 anodes with an extremely high lithium storage performance. By utilizing hydrothermal treatment of tin tetrachloride, the core-double-shell structure was constructed (SiO2@C@SnO2), in which SiO2 is capped with a layer of amorphous carbon and the SnO2 nanoparticles are partially embedding in amorphous carbon layer while the rest part is exposed. The as-prepared SiO2@C@SnO2 nanospheres electrode exhibits high capacity and excellent electrochemical performance in lithium-ion batteries. The first reversible discharge and charge capacities at a current density of 100 mA g−1 are 864.4 mA h g−1 and 691 mA h g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tin(II) perovskite oxides are promising for lead-free ferroelectric applications because Sn(II) is isoelectronic to Pb(II) and is predicted to amplify displacements and polarization. Though typically difficult to synthesize, a metastable perovskite structure of barium zirconate titanate with Sn(II) substituted for Ba was recently reported. In the present work, a detailed structural analysis is performed on 40% Sn(II)-substituted BaZr0.5Ti0.5O3 with high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The main diffraction peaks of the cubic perovskite persist with the incorporation of tin into the structure. Additionally, superstructure reflections are observed in the low 2θ region of the diffraction pattern at d-spacings that are multiples of the main perovskite peaks. The origin of these superstructure peaks is attributed to atomic displacements of the Sn and Zr/Ti cations. A Bayesian inference method is applied to conduct a refinement of the atomic displacements in a supercell with no symmetry constraints (i.e., P1 symmetry setting) using the superstructure diffraction reflections. In the absence of a known structure and symmetry, the Bayesian method allows for simultaneous refinement of all atomic positions without convergence to unrealistic local minima, resulting in the most probable configurations of atoms. Through the refined solution, it is found that displacements of the cations result in symmetry-breaking distortions from the parent cubic perovskite structure that can be modeled using a P1 supercell with the potential for ferroelectric polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the initiation of interfacial damage in SnPb alloy was investigated at the atomic scale through molecular dynamics simulations. The focus was primarily on the structural stability of the Sn/Pb interface with different orientations, the formation energies of vacancies in different Sn/Pb interfaces, and the short-range interactions between dislocations and the Sn/Pb interface. The results revealed a correlation between the interfacial energies of all four Sn/Pb interfaces and the disorder of Sn and Pb atoms near the interface, where a more regular atomic arrangement resulted in lower interfacial energy. The vacancy formation energies near the Sn/Pb interfaces varied depending on the interface type, although all types contributed to reducing these energies. Furthermore, the Sn/Pb interface acts as a barrier to dislocations in both Pb and β-Sn phases, while leading to the cross-slip of screw dislocations in the Pb phase. Edge dislocations in the β-Sn phase induce significant strain localization at the interface, initiating interfacial damage and crack nucleation. These findings are highly significant for understanding damage mechanisms in SnPb alloy and advancing high-performance solder development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An hydrophobized gas-diffusion electrode with a tin catalyst deposited onto acetylene black A437E is tested with the aim of elucidation of its potential in intensifying the CO2 electroreduction to formate in acidic and alkaline aqueous solutions. Porous electrodes with the fluoroplastic content of 40 wt %, a thickness of 0.5 mm, porosity of 60 vol %, and the tin content ≈0.7 mg/cm2 of the total electrode surface are studied. It is shown that this type of electrodes can be used in electroreduction of CO2 at a current density of up to 900 mA/cm2, a temperature of 25–55°C with the current efficiency from 74 to 96% with respect to formate. The 4 h electrolysis at a current density of 190 mA/cm2 produces a solution with the potassium formate concentration of 1.58 M. This is accompanied by the increase in the capacitance of the electric double layer from 7 to 17 mF/cm2 and the decrease in the current efficiency from 96 to 58%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu2ZnSnS4:Na promising quaternary chalcogenide material was deposited using a single-step hydrothermal method via EDTA as a complex agent. Various NaOH additives were studied to see how they affected the crystallographic, microstructure, optical, and electrical properties. The formation of polycrystalline kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4:Na films with a preferred orientation along (112) plane was shown by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman analyses. These analyses also revealed that the structure's properties vary with NaOH additive: single-phase Cu2ZnSnS4:Na was formed at higher NaOH value and the secondary phase was formed within CZTS at lower NaOH values. Surface morphology changes from flake-flower to cauliflower, according to field emission scanning electron microscopy. Also, EDS peaks confirm the presence of Cu, Zn, Sn, Na, and S. UV–visible analysis indicates that all samples had high and wide absorbance spectra with absorption coefficients greater than 104 cm−1 in the (200–1000) nm range. Additionally, a 1.5 eV band gap for the single-phase Cu2ZnSnS4:Na film was estimated. For single-phase Cu2ZnSnS4:Na, photoluminescence revealed a peak at 1.47 eV, the energy value is in close proximity to the optical band gap of the ideal compound Cu2ZnSnS4:Na.The Hall measurement indicates the pure sample has p-type conductivity with a charge carrier concentration of 6 × 1017 cm−3. The resistivity of pure CZTS:Na and mobility were 1 Ω.cm and 10.4 cm2.Vs−1. Finally, the configuration of Mo foil/MoO3/CZTS:Na /Zn0.35Cd0.65S/ZnO/Al was used to produce a heterojunction solar cell. Under 100 mW/cm2, an open circuit voltage of (0.415) V, a short circuit current density of (14.3) mA cm-2, a fill factor of (38%), and the effectiveness of photovoltaic cells of (2.26%) were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most spheroidal graphite irons (SGIs) have a matrix consisting of ferrite, pearlite, or a mix of the two. To achieve the desired matrix composition, pearlite promoters such as Mn, Cu, or Sn, are added to the molten metal. Among these elements, Sn is the most potent pearlite promoter. However, each has a different impact on the solidification, graphite precipitation, eutectoid transformation, and ultimately the final structure of the material. Research has shown that B promotes ferrite in fully pearlitic grades where Cu and Mn were used to promote pearlite. The present work investigates the effect of B in SGI with additions of Sn, Cu, and Mn, and the effects of varying amounts of the different pearlite promoters on the matrix composition. The results show that Mn alone at levels of approximately 0.9 wt% is not enough to promote a fully pearlitic matrix, while 0.5 wt% Cu combined with 0.67 wt% Mn is sufficient. Likewise, a fully pearlitic microstructure can be obtained by alloying with 0.06 wt% Sn and 0.67 wt% Mn. B was found to promote ferrite in fully pearlitic SGI alloyed with Sn or Cu. However, in the absence of those elements, B promoted pearlite when alloyed with just Mn. Graphite protrusions were observed on the graphite nodule surface only for B-added alloys with Sn and Cu. In these cases, it is believed B promotes ferrite by changing the growth mechanism of graphite after solidification from spherical to lamellar. However, a different graphite morphology is observed when B is added with just Mn. Thermal analysis data is in agreement with the microstructural observations regarding the ferrite promoting effect of B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anode material Sn used in sodium-ion batteries displays high theoretical capacity, complex phase transformation, and significant volume change during the charging/discharging process. In particular, the effects of small scale on the mechanical behavior of Sn anode at the nanoscale are very active research fields. However, the majority of these results are based on nonlocal gradient formulations. In this study, we proposed and established a model that combines the electrochemical reaction with stress-driven nonlocal integral elasticity for the nanoelectrode to analyze the evolution of diffusion-induced deformation during the sodiation process. Several critical features, such as the small-scale parameter, two-phase reaction, and concentration-dependent elastic modulus, were incorporated into the established model. The model demonstrated that a small scale could significantly affect the deformation behavior. The results obtained using the finite element method showed that the mechanical reliability of the Sn anode could be significantly enhanced when the anode was sodiated with larger nonlocal parameters and smaller slenderness. In addition, the axial action force exhibited a strong size effect and was influenced by the nondimensional thickness parameter of the anode. This work provides a framework for multi-scale research on high-capacity sodium-ion battery electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high-performance direct-Z Scheme heterojunctions as photocatalysts is the focus of current research, and it is also an effective way to improve the performance of photocatalysts. Based on this, we use density functional theory (DFT) to predict two-dimensional (2D) XSe2/SiH (X = Zr, Sn) van der Waals (vdW) heterojunction as a potential direct Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst. The results indicate that both heterojunctions exhibit a typical Type-II band edge arrangement. Furthermore, the small band gap and built-in electric field of the heterojunctions facilitate electronic transitions between the valence band (VB) and conduction band (CB), thereby increasing the probability of interlayer electron–hole (e−-h+) recombination within the heterojunction. This process is beneficial for the formation of direct-Z Scheme heterojunctions. In addition, the XSe2/SiH (X = Zr, Sn) heterojunction exhibits remarkable photogenerated electron and hole driving forces, along with exceptional light-trapping capabilities. Therefore, XSe2/SiH (X = Zr, Sn) heterojunction is a potential new photocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were executed for the titled features of hitherto unreported Rb2XS3 (X = Si, Ge, Sn) chalcogen compounds. All compounds were found to be in semiconducting character where they demonstrate high-k dielectric properties, high optical conductivity, high refractivity and reasonable absorbance. In addition, obtained phonon dispersion curves of all compounds with positive phonon frequencies stipulate the dynamical stability. Also, computed elastic stiffness constants prove mechanical stability and bilateral agreement between Pugh ratio analyses with Poisson ratio results confirms the ductile mechanical feature of all addressed compounds. Overall, with satisfactory optical, elastic and mechanical aspects, Rb2XS3 (X = Si, Ge, Sn) chalcogenides can be promising materials for recent optoelectronics and microelectronics with diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work is devoted to an experimental study of individual poorly studied stages of vapor explosion triggering (a dangerous destructive phenomenon that occurs during certain emergency situations in nuclear energy, metallurgical, pulp and paper, and other industries). Experiments were carried out to study the propagation of the detonation front after spontaneous explosive boiling (triggering) of water on a molten drop of salt (NaCl) and a vapor explosion stimulated by it on closely spaced neighboring drops of salt and tin. The temperature of the melted drops in the experiments was 850–1100°C and water temperature was room temperature (22–24°C). The main research tool was high-speed video recording of the process (recording frequency up to 50 kHz, exposure up to 5 μs). In order to study the initial stage of triggering associated with local contact of the cooler with a hot substance, experiments were carried out using high-speed video footage of the process of the vapor film coming off on a hot solid sphere, synchronized with fixing the sphere-cooler contact electrically. The footage of the instantaneous (precipitous) mode of vapor film disappearance with a duration of 200–500 μs and gradual (progressive) mode lasting approximately 100 ms on spheres under similar experimental conditions. It is shown that the main influence on the regime of film melting and vapor explosion on molten tin drops is exerted by the pressure pulse from the vapor explosion on a nearby NaCl drop. The characteristic times of the triggering process have been determined: tens to hundreds of microseconds. The value of the primary pressure pulse in the liquid has been established. The decisive role in triggering fine fragmentation of centimeter-long drops of hot liquid by the first contact of cold liquid with their surface has been confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is devoted to the effect of alloying high-permeable electrical anisotropic steel with tin and chromium highly permeable electrical anisotropic steel with tin and chromium on the kinetics of primary recrystallization. The physical modeling of strongly deformed alloy specimens of different chemical composition is performed. The obtained recrystallization kinetics equations for alloys of different tin and chromium content show a deceleration of recrystallization process in a steel with an increased tin content and a decreased chromium content. Analysis of the texture at different stages of recrystallization allows making conclusion that the texture is formed predominately by oriented growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel-based composites have been considered ideal for the fabrication of protective layers for mechanical equipment in hostile environments and are widely used in the fields of automobile, agricultural rods, agricultural pumps, aircraft, military projects, and chemical engineering due to their outstanding corrosion resistance and high temperature resistance. This study reports the preparation of Ni-TiN nanocomposites on A3 steel matrix via the jet pulse electrodeposition method (JPE). The effect of jet speed was investigated on the microstructure, thickness, abrasive resistance, corrosion resistance, and plating mechanism of Ni-TiN nanocomposites. The results indicated that the Ni-TiN nanocomposites prepared with a jet speed of 2.4 m/s generated the smallest nickel grains with an average size of 312 nm. The thicknesses of Ni-TiN nanocomposites obtained under three jet speeds of 1.8, 2.4, and 3 m/s were 47.5 μm, 94.7 μm, and 68.1 μm, respectively. Ni-TiN nanocomposites prepared at a jet speed of 2.4 m/s exhibited dense and flat surface morphologies. Ni-TiN nanocomposites prepared at a jet speed of 2.4 m/s exhibited relatively broader and weaker nickel grain diffraction peaks compared to the other two composites. The highest hardness equivalent value of the prepared Ni-TiN nanocomposites was 897.4 HV under deposition conditions of 2.4 m/s jet speed. Furthermore, Ni-TiN nanocomposites obtained at 2.4 m/s had the lowest average corrosion current density 26.5 × 10-5 A/cm2, demonstrating that the corrosion resistance was at its highest level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping can greatly reduce the lattice thermal conductivity of thermoelectric materials, which is considered as one of the effective ways to improve the thermoelectric properties of thermoelectric materials. First of all, we use the simple and environmentally friendly solution thermal method combined with the tube furnace sintering technology to explore the optimal temperature of sintering Cu2S in the tube furnace. When the sintering temperature reaches 700 °C, we get the thermoelectric value of 0.21. Subsequently, Cu2S thermoelectric materials doped with xmol%Sn (x = 0.5, 1, 3, 5) were prepared and the optimal concentration of Sn was explored. The Sn atom replaces the Cu atom with a smaller radius, greatly reducing the thermal conductivity of the matrix material. In the sample doped with 1%Sn, the total thermal conductivity reaches 0.31 WK−1 m−1, which is 22.5% lower than that of the pure phase sample. In addition, above 623 K, the conductivity of samples doped with 1%Sn is better than that of intrinsic samples, indicating that Sn doping can optimize the conductivity of Cu2S to a certain extent. At 773 K, the ZT of Cu2S + 1 mol%Sn can reach 0.51. 132% higher than undoped Cu2S.This provides a new idea for the preparation and commercial application of Cu–S based thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Pt(1.5%)Sn(0.25%)/Al2O3 catalyst synthesized by the sequential impregnation of γ-alumina with aqueous solutions of hydroplatinic acid and tin chloride has been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The kinetic laws governing methylcyclohexane dehydrogenation to toluene and hydrogen in a tubular flow reactor in the isothermal mode at atmospheric pressure have been studied, while varying the reactant concentrations, contact time, and temperature. An empirical mathematical model of kinetics, which includes three adsorption forms of a bifunctional active site, has been developed. The model adequately describes the test data for the forward and reverse reaction routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ionic mobility and conductivity of composites and compounds of the eutectic and close composition obtained by different methods in the PbF2–SnF2 system are studied based on the 19F NMR and impedance data. The stages of transformation of the 19F NMR spectra of these samples, their connection with the types of ionic movements, and the possible factors determining their ionic conductivity are considered. It is shown that the composition of the majority of composites includes the fluorite phase characterized by the high values of ionic mobility and conductivity. In the region close to the eutectic, a single-phase sample with the fluorite structure is obtained for the first time. The conductivity of this phase (5 × 10–3 S/cm at 390 K) makes it possible to consider it as the basis for synthesizing functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spreading and splashing behavior of high-velocity metal liquid droplets upon impact with a substrate is a fundamental scientific concern in thermal spray and additive manufacturing for metal deposition. A thorough understanding of the spreading and splashing tendencies of individual liquid droplets, along with the factors influencing them, is crucial for improving the quality of sprayed coatings and additively manufactured components. In this research, high-speed photography was employed to document the propagation process, splashing events, and alterations in droplet structure following the impact of tin droplets onto stainless steel surfaces at varying velocities. The study unveiled that as the impact velocity rises, the droplet's dynamics undergo a series of transformations, encompassing retraction, spreading, and splashing, accompanied by dynamic fluctuations in the contact angle. Elevated impact velocities result in an augmentation of the droplet's maximum spreading diameter, coupled with a simultaneous reduction in spreading duration. Splashing occurs at relatively higher speeds and near the maximum forward contact angle. The paper verified a splashing prediction model based on the pressure balance of the liquid film and boundary conditions, successfully predicting the onset of droplet splashing. The results of the experiments can be applied to advanced technologies in thermal spray and additive manufacturing for metal deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vapor-phase infiltration of organometallic or inorganic compounds was used to synthesize Lewis-acid sites in both amorphous SiO2 and mesoporous SBA-15. Isolated Zr and Sn sites produced in this manner exhibited similar reaction and adsorption properties as that observed for Zr-BEA and Sn-BEA zeolites. Adsorbed CD3CN showed a characteristic ν(C≡N) stretch at 2300 cm−1 which was not observed on bulk ZrO2 or siliceous materials. Zr- and Sn-modified SiO2 and SBA-15 also showed similar activities to Zr-BEA and Sn-BEA for transfer hydrogenation/etherification of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural with 2-propanol and the Diels–Alder cycloaddition/dehydration of 2,5-dimethylfuran with ethene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterojunctions based on p-CuO/n-ZnO, prepared by simple methods such as spin coating, normally exhibit low photoconversion efficiency and require modification. Doping the ZnO layer with ions such as Sn4+ could be a solution. In this work, heterojunctions were prepared by two simple methods. In method 1, to prepare the CuO@ZnO junction, the n-ZnO layer was spin-coated on tin-doped indium oxide/glass substrates (ITO/glass) followed by spin coating of the p-CuO layer. In method 2, to prepare the ZnO@CuO/Cu sheet junction, the p-CuO layer was prepared by thermal oxidation of the Cu metal sheet, followed by spin coating of ZnO. In both cases, the ZnO film was doped with Sn4+ ions at 1.5% concentration by mole. The effects of Sn-doping on the structural and morphological properties of the junction were comparatively studied by X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. In both preparations, doping affected the optical, electrical and photovoltaic (PV) properties. The preparation method also affected junction characteristics, as preparation method 2 showed heterojunctions with higher PV characteristics. The results show inroads to improving PV characteristics for the heterojunction based on the proper preparation method and Sn doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co2Sn1−xTxO4 (T = Al, Sc, and Y; 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2) magnetic spinel oxides have been synthesized through solid-state reaction. The XRD pattern displays a single-phase cubic structure with space group Fd3m. Moreover, magnetic susceptibility results show that substituting trivalent non-magnetic ions improves the para-ferrimagnetic transition temperature, TC. Magnetic susceptibility results of direct current (dc) and alternating current (ac) showed that the T3+ substitution increased the freezing temperature of the spin-glass state, and was also beneficial to the growth of the spin-glass phase. The apparent magnetic exchange bias effect at low temperatures (T < 20 K) was realized in the Co2Sn1−xTxO4 samples using the pinning effect in the spin-glass phase. Due to the magnetic exchange bias effect, the magnetism of the system dramatically increased at low temperatures. Thermal exchange bias results show that the coercivity field (HC) at 10 K increased from 0 for x = 0 samples to ~ 2.1, 1.3, and 2.9 kOe for Al-, Sc-, and Y-doped samples, respectively. It can optimize magnetic materials and architectures, improving performance and practicality in magnetic data storage, magnetic sensors, spintronics, and magnetic nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting magnetic ordering in kagome compounds offers the possibility of harnessing topological or flat-band physical properties through tuning of the magnetism. Here, we examine the magnetic interactions and phases of ErMn6Sn6 which belongs to a family of RMn6Sn6, R = Sc, Y, Gd–Lu, compounds with magnetic kagome Mn layers, triangular R layers, and signatures of topological properties. Using results from single-crystal neutron diffraction and mean-field analysis, we find that ErMn6Sn6 sits close to the critical boundary separating the spiral-magnetic and ferrimagnetic ordered states typical for non-magnetic versus magnetic R layers, respectively. Finding interlayer magnetic interactions and easy-plane Mn magnetic anisotropy consistent with other members of the family, we predict the existence of a number of temperature and field dependent collinear, noncollinear, and noncoplanar magnetic phases. We show that thermal fluctuations of the Er magnetic moment, which act to weaken the Mn-Er interlayer magnetic interaction and quench the Er magnetic anisotropy, dictate magnetic phase stability. Our results provide a starting point and outline a multitude of possibilities for studying the behavior of Dirac fermions in RMn6Sn6 compounds with control of the Mn spin orientation and real-space spin chirality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous downsizing of solder joints, the influence of the grain characteristics of the under bump metallization (UBMs) on the interfacial reaction is exposed. In this paper, the effect of grain characteristics of Cu UBM on the growth of interfacial intermetallic compounds and the formation of Kirkendall voids in Cu/Sn/Cu micro solder joints during isothermal aging at 150 °C was investigated. Electroplated polycrystalline Cu (EP-Cu), (111) single crystal Cu ((111) Cu), and (111) nano-twinned Cu ((111) nt-Cu) were selected as UBMs. After reflow soldering, the Cu6Sn5 grains formed on (111) nt-Cu were near to the orientation (2 1 - 1 - 3) , while those were randomly formed on both EP-Cu and (111) Cu. During isothermal aging, the Cu6Sn5 grains exhibited the highest growth rate on (111) nt-Cu UBM, and the slowest growth rate on (111) Cu UBM, due to the differing number of diffusion routes among the three Cu UBMs with distinct grain characteristics. Furthermore, no Kirkendall voids were detected on the (111) Cu UBM, however, a significant number of Kirkendall voids were identified on the (111) nt-Cu UBM, which can be attributed to the diffusion path and impurities present in the three Cu UBMs. The results will offer theoretical and practical recommendations for the selection of Cu UBMs for micro solder joints in 3D packaging interconnection technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemistry of Sn(II), Sn(IV), and Se(IV) in the choline chloride-glycerol deep eutectic solvent was investigated on glassy carbon at 110 °C by various electrochemical methods including cyclic voltammetry, chronopotentiometry, and chronoamperometry. The Sn(IV)/Sn(II) couple displays very slow electrochemical kinetics, so that the reduction of Sn(IV) essentially proceeds directly to Sn(0) through a 4 e− process, even if the potential of the Sn(IV)/Sn(II) couple is more positive than the Sn(II)/Sn(0) couple. Because of this sequence of potentials, the comproportionation reaction Sn(IV) + Sn(0) → 2Sn(II) takes place when elemental tin is deposited from the Sn(IV) solution. The electrodeposition of tin proceeds through an instantaneous nucleation process with Sn(II) whereas a progressive nucleation mechanism is observed with Sn(IV). In the presence of both Sn(IV) and Se(IV) in solution, voltammetric features associated with the formation of a Sn-Se compound are clearly identified and the suitable potential range where the compound can be deposited without co-deposition of elemental tin is determined, as confirmed by SEM images and EDX analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel heterobimetallic complexes of type [Zn(L)2M2(R)4Cl2], where M = Sn(IV) and Si(IV); R = –CH3 and –C6H5, were prepared by reacting the methanolic solution of monometallic complex [Zn(L)2Cl2] with group fourteen organometallic dichloride [(CH3)2SnCl2/(C6H5)2SnCl2/(CH3)2SiCl2/(C6H5)2SiCl2]. The structures of the obtained complexes were identified by various spectrometric methods such as Fourier transformation infra-red (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, powder X-ray diffraction, molar conductivity, and UV–Vis. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to explore the quantum chemical properties of the newly designed Zn(II) complexes. In vitro antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities of Schiff base ligand [L], mononuclear complex [Zn(L)2Cl2] and its corresponding heterobimetallic complexes, [Zn(L)2M2(R)4Cl2], were evaluated. The heterobimetallic complexes exhibited higher activities against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus Subtilis and Bacillus cereus), Gram-negative bacteria (Xanthomonas Campestris and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and fungal strains (Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium oxysporum) in comparison with both the Schiff base ligand and the monometallic complex. This enhanced performance of the heterobimetallic complexes can be attributed to the synergistic effect. The heterobimetallic complex [Zn(L)2Sn2(C6H5)4Cl2] showed the highest potential of inflammation inhibition with IC50 = 5.2 µg/mL, very close to standard drug sodium diclofenac (IC50 = 4.59 µg/mL). Furthermore, the synthesized compounds were assessed for their anticancer activity against three cell lines: human colon (HCT-116), human breast (MDA-MB-231), and human lung cancer cells (A549) using the MTT assay. The obtained results showed that the heterobimetallic complex [Zn(L)2Sn2(C6H5)4Cl2] displayed the highest cytotoxic activity (IC50 = 3.12 ± 0.25, 3.72 ± 0.26, and 3.94 ± 0.14 for HCT-116, MDA-MB-231 and A549, respectively). These findings suggest that the newly formulated metal complexes could be explored further in the pursuit of drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]