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In this report, a study of the wear mechanisms involved in the spinning ring and the traveler of textile industry are presented. These components, after surface processing with various coatings techniques, were analyzed on the test rig so as to analyze the wear mechanism. The objective was accomplished by comparing various plasma sprayed coatings on E52100 steel pins using a pin-on-disc machine. The surface morphology as well as mechanical properties of the deposited coatings, namely WC-Co- Cr, Al2O3+TiO2 (Alumina-Titania) and Cr3C2NiCr, as well as uncoated E52100, were comparatively studied. This study elucidates towards improving the working life of the ring in a textile mill in the spinning operation. An x-ray diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were employed to characterize the unworn and worn surfaces of the specimens. The study revealed that the wear rate of plasma sprayed thermal coatings enhanced with augmenting load. The plasma sprayed WC-Co-Cr, Cr3C2NiCr, Al2O3+13TiO2 coatings developed on workpiece pins exhibited a notable decrease in volume loss of the material as compared to uncoated E52100 substrate. WCCo- Cr coating turned out to be the best performer in terms of the lowest cumulative volume loss among all the variants of coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we have modulated the structural, morphological, optical and thermoelectric properties of CZTS thin films (TFs) by controlling the concentration of tin atoms. The CZTS TFs were grown by simple chemical solution method by changing tin mole concentration from 0.5 mM to 2.0 mM (labeled as T1, T2, T3 and T4). XRD data have revealed the formation of best crystalline CZTS TF at 1.5 mM tin concentration because tin (Sn+4) atoms are placed its own lattice sites therefore achieved the best crystal quality of CZTS. Furthermore, the phase purity of CZTS TF was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The lattice vibration of CZTS TF were observed at 329 and 334 cm−1 with A 1g mode and 367 cm−1 with B(TO) mode. The strongest Raman CZTS vibrational mode was observed for sample T3 which supported our XRD data. SEM images demonstrated that the surface of grown CZTS thin films became smoother with increasing the mole concentration of tin atoms up to 1.5 mM because the density of CuS grains has minimum value for this sample. The optimum band gap of T1, T2, T3 and T4 samples was estimated to 2.23, 2.15, 1.91 and 1.82 eV respectively which also confirmed that sample T3 has band gap value very close to reported value. The Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity and power factor values were enhanced from (243–762 μV/°C), (21–152 S/cm) and (1.24 × 10−4- 8.82 × 10−2Wm−1K−2) with increasing the mole concentration of tin (0.5–1.5 mM) at measurement temperature 100 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work encloses the deposition of three zinc selenide (ZnSe) thin films of thickness 175 nm, 243 nm, and 286 nm using thermal evaporation technique under a vacuum of 5 × 10−5 mbar. The deposited ZnSe thin films are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), surface profilometer, ultraviolet (UV)-visible (Vis)-near-infrared (NIR) spectrophotometer and Raman spectroscopic measurements. The structure and morphology measurements reveal that the deposited ZnSe material is nanocrystalline having a cubic structure whose crystallinity increases with an increase in film thickness/evaporation rate. The optical band gap estimated from the optical transmission spectra of the films is found to be 2.62 eV, 2.60 eV, and 2.57 eV, respectively, which decreases with an increase in film thickness. The estimation and polynomial curve fit analysis of refractive index, extinction coefficient, and dielectric constant indicates that these physical quantities are fifth-order polynomial function of wavelength. The obtained results are compared and analysed for justification and application of ZnSe thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to find appropriate precipitation conditions (Ca/P ratio, pH and precipitation rate) for the synthesis of hydroxyapatite (HAP; Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) and to determine the effect of precipitation conditions on its thermal behavior. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized by precipitation. Three ratios of Ca/P (1; 1.67; 3) were selected for the synthesis, then pH 7 and 12 was selected, and the ammonium dihydrogen phosphate precipitation rate was set to 2 mL min−1. The prepared powders were studied from the standpoint of particle size distribution, crystal size and morphology (optical microscope, scanning electron microscope), phase composition (X-ray diffraction analysis) and thermal stability in relation to the Ca/P ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, study the preparation of Y-Fe alloy by reduction-diffusion process, which is novel technique for producing an alloy from its ores directly at different temperatures. From this work, investigates the particles size and morphology structure of alloy by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive-X-ray analyzer (EDAX) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) respectively. Here study the thermodynamics of property of system such as Gibbs free energy and reaction kinetics of system respectively. The Vibrating Sample magnetometer (VSM) is used to study the magnetic properties of alloy such as cocerviety, saturation magnetization and retentivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper doped nickel oxide (NiO:Cu) thin films were synthesized via electrodeposition technique. X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscope, UV–visible spectroscopy, Vibrating Sample Magnetometer techniques and electrochemical analysis were utilized for the study of the structural, morphological, optical, magnetic and cyclic voltammogram properties respectively of both undoped and doped NiO thin films. The crystallographic studies of the undoped and doped NiO thin films showed that they are polycrystalline with cubic structure. Surface morphology of both the undoped and doped thin films showed nanocrystalline grains with spherical shaped particles. The optical studies showed a decrease in band gap energy from 3.34 eV to 3.32 eV and finally to 3.20 eV for the undoped, 2% and 3% respectively. The refractive index peaked between 2.60 and 2.65 while the calculated extinction coefficient values of the doped thin films have significant variation in the visible and NIR range. The studies of magnetization saturation values were found to be 1.52E-4 and 2.29E-4 for 2% and 3% doped respectively with low remanence values. Electrochemical studies revealed good cyclic voltammograms of the deposited films. These values indicate that the electrodeposited Cu doped NiO thin films are good candidates for magnetic applications. Image 1 • Copper doped NiO thin films were synthesized by electrodeposition method. • X-ray diffraction analysis shows strong reflection with preferential plane orientation of (222). • Optical measurement shows a decrease in energy bandgap of NiO upon doped with copper. • Magnetic measurements show ferromagnetic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, characterization studies are carried out on liquid crystalline (LC) p-n-propoxy benzoic acid (3oba), p-n-propyl benzoic acid (3ba) and the mixture of these two benzoic of acids dispersed with low weight concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles (nps). The existence of ZnO nps in above LC compounds are studied by scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction techniques. The LC phase transition temperatures of the compounds with the dispersion of ZnO nps are measured using polarizing microscope (POM) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The nematic phase transition temperatures of 3ba, 3oba and mixture of 3ba and 3oba obtained from POM and DSC found to decrease with increase in the dispersion of various weight concentrations of ZnO nps. The birefringence studies are carried out for these compounds at different wavelengths (400, 500, 570, and 635 nm) with the dispersion of ZnO nps with increasing in weight concentrations (1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 wt%) using modified spectrometer and the orientational order parameter 'S' of corresponding LC nanocomposites is measured from different optical methods viz., Kuczynski internal field model, Vuks isotropic model and effective geometry model. Among the three models the order parameter found to increase due to the strong alignment of LC molecules with the ZnO nps. The refractive indices measured at different wavelengths are fitted with two and three coefficient Cauchy's model. For high birefringence LCs three coefficient Cauchy's model is favorable than two coefficient model and vice versa. The results obtained are compared and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning derived nanostructured CeO 2 and ZnO CeO 2 composite fibers have been successfully fabricated, followed by a subsequent heat-treatment. X-ray line profile analysis is applied to the X-ray diffraction data collection for determination of microstructure parameters both area -and volume-averaged apparent crystallites size based on spherical crystallites with lognormal size distribution. The surface morphologies of the prepared samples were examined with scanning electron microscope (SEM). To gain insight into the optical properties of the fabricated nanofibers, the UV–vis diffuse reflectance absorption spectrums were measured. The correlation between the structural and optical properties is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reported the growth of Zn 2 GeO 4 nano-crystals on Au coated Si substrate by thermal evaporation technique using vacuum tube furnace for thermoelectric power generation applications. The thermoelectric properties of nano-crystals were improved by generating the secondary phases in the grown samples using the post-growth annealing at various temperatures (600–900 °C). The low energy carriers filtered out at the interface of secondary phases and caused an enhancement in Seebeck coefficient and power factor. The emergence of secondary phases with annealing temperature was confirmed by various characterization techniques. XRD data suggested that samples annealed at 800 and 900 °C consisted of three extra secondary phases along with the phases related to Zn 2 GeO 4 , ZnO, Si and Au. Raman spectroscopy data demonstrated the presence of strong peak due to Si substrate for all samples but two weak peaks appeared at 375 and 800 cm−1 for samples annealed at 800 and 900 °C. The SEM images shows the presence of randomly oriented nano structures as annealing temperature increase up to 900 °C. The Hall measurements were also performed to strengthened our argument. • Growth of Zn2GeO4 nano-crystals by thermal evaporation. • Post growth annealing at various temperatures (600–900C). • The Seebeck coefficient and power factor increases with annealing temperature. • This enhancement related with emergence of secondary phases. • Raman, SEM, XRD and Hall data also justified our argument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zn15Al coating has a better anti-corrosion ability than pure zinc coating. • Aluminum promotes the formation of simonkolleite on the coating surface. • Z n 6 A l 2 C O 3 (O H) 16 ⋅ 4 H 2 O (LDH) was found at the interface of the coating and substrate. The anti-corrosion performance of Zn and Zn15Al organic coating was investigated mainly by neutral salt spray test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy disperse spectroscopy were applied to analyze the corrosion behavior of the coating during the test. The facilitated formation of protective corrosion product simonkolleite on the Zn15Al coating surface was observed. Also, layered double hydroxides (LDH) consisting of Zn2+ and Al3+ were detected at the interface of coating/steel substrate of Zn15Al. This LDH was believed to function as ion exchanger that prevents Cl− from contacting the steel substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Undoped and Erbium (Er) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) films were prepared on p-Si substrates by sol gel method using spin coating technique. The effect of Er dopant on the structural, morphological and optical properties of ZnO film was investigated by X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and UV-vis spectrophotometer, respectively. From X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra, the films were crystallized in hexagonal wurtzite structure in zincite phase. The structural parameters such as grain size, dislocation density, lattice parameters, strain and stress were calculated. From the SEM images, it is seen that the film surfaces are well-coated, uniform, without cracks and pores. ImageJ program was used to investigate the average particle size, grain boundaries and the surface of the films. The optical properties were studied by diffuse reflectance spectra measured by UV-vis spectrophotometer and the optical band gap values were determined by differential reflectance and Kubelka-Munk theory. In both methods, it was determined the optical band gap value of ZnO film increases or decreases irregularly with the Er content. It was observed that the optical band gap of the 0.4% Er doped ZnO film was larger than the other films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spin coating technique has been utilized to deposit good adhesion successfully and highly uniform [DPP-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ], [DPPA-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ] and [DPPA-Zn-MR(Cl)(H 2 O)] thin films. The fabricated film thicknesses ranged from 100 to 150 nm. The molecular structure characteristics of compounds have been investigated by FT-IR, 1H NMR, and FAB-Mass spectroscopic. The structural and morphological properties of [DPP-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ], [DPPA-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ] and [DPPA-Zn-MR(Cl)(H 2 O)] thin films were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. According to the density functional calculations (DFT) results, the interaction of the zinc complexes conforms to lose associations, the interaction energies for all complexes in the matrix. The bonding mechanism of the zinc complexes includes both σ-dative and π-back bonding components. The measured optical properties of [DPP-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ], [DPPA-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ] and [DPPA-Zn-MR(Cl)(H 2 O)] thin films such as transmittance (T), absorbance (A) and reflectance (R) in UV-vis-NIR spectrum has been used to calculate optical features at room temperatures. The electrophilicity index (ω) of this zinc complexes are ≅ 10.86–13.84. These are significant interesting quantum chemical characteristics. The transparency of the complexes is within the range of ≅ 85–90% in the visible range. The optical band gap (E go) of [DPP-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ], [DPPA-Zn(Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ] and [DPPA-Zn-MR(Cl)(H 2 O)] thin films were estimated by DFT and they found to be 1.045, 0937 and 0.736 eV, respectively. The refractive index (n) and the single oscillator energy (E o) were discussed by the single oscillator Wemple–Didomenico (WD) model. The high accuracy of the novel zinc complexes along with its appropriate optical band gap enabled us to build an efficient visible-blind UV-photodetector, indicating its potential in optoelectronic applications. Image 1 • Synthesis of novel zinc complexes thin films by spin coating technique. • Characterization of these complexes by using XRD, SEM and DFT modeling. • n and E o discussed by the single oscillator Wemple–Didomenico (WD) model. • Novel zinc thin films can be used as optical switching, organic photovoltaics and solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Investigation of phase composition of pond ash modified mortar. • Utilization of Pond ash leads to an improved performance of cement mortar. • Pond ash replacement affects the strength positively with the SR40 and CR10. • With pond ash content in series-I, SiO2 content increased, leads to gain in strength. Abstract This study focused on the use of coal-based pond ash from Bhusawal thermal power plant (India) as a fine aggregate and cement replacement in cement mortar at a replacement percentage from 0% to 100%. Two series of cement mortar mixes were prepared. Experimental analysis based on properties of mortar such as compressive strength, flexural strength, workability, setting time, bulk densities by addition of pond ash in a mortar. Investigation on the physical properties of mortar incorporating pond ash through X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) with an energy dispersive X-ray analysis system (SEM-EDX) was also done to study microstructure analysis and to correlate these physical properties with mechanical properties of cement mortar. The presence of pond ash in series-I affects the strength positively with inclusion up to 40% replaced with sand in mortar series-I. With the increased content of pond ash replacement beyond 10% with cement, the strength of mortar seems to be reduced. The SEM results showed growth of dense crystalline plate-like structure and give evidence of portlandite leads to solidification of mortar mass when pond ash was replaced with sand in the mortar. The presence of portlandite through SEM represents the solidification and densification of mortar mass. The addition of pond ash leads to an increase in the amount of CSH gel in the mortar. This may be the reason for the improved performance of mortar up to certain level of replacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The updated Nanostructure materials and nano-technological tools are predicted to enable the synthesis polymer-inorganic composites to manufacture higher qualified membranes possess attractive physical and chemical properties with high performed sensitivity and selectivity. In this study carboxylated poly (vinyl chloride) (CPVC), CPVC/silver and CPVC/palladium nanocomposites membranes were prepared. Samples from the CPVC/Ag and CPVC/Pd nanocomposites films were irradiated with gamma doses in the range 25-150 kGy. The structural modifications in the gamma-irradiated nanocomposite samples have been studied as a function of dose using different characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction XRD, UV spectroscopy, color difference studies, Thermogravimetric analysis TGA and scanning electron microscope SEM. The results indicate that the gamma irradiation in the dose range 50-150 kGy led to a more compact structure of both CPVC/Ag and CPVC/Pd nanocomposite films, which resulted in an improvement in its thermal stability with an increase in the activation energy of thermal decomposition and amorphous phase. It is worth mentioned that the nano-palladium is more effective than nano-silver composite membranes in stabilizing the CPVC. In addition, the results of color difference measurements indicated that both the CPVC/Ag and CPVC/Pd nanocomposite films acquire color under gamma irradiation up to 150 kGy, but the response of CPVC/Ag to color changes is higher. For this reason, the CPVC/Ag nanocomposite film was chosen to be a subject for the further study to investigate the effect of gamma irradiation on its optical and microscopic properties. it is found that the gamma irradiation reduces the optical energy gap that could be attributed to the increase in structural disorder of the irradiated CPVC/Ag nanocomposite due to crosslinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel ternary PtM2 nano structures was prepared using simple salvothermal process. The alloy formation has been ascertained using different characterizations techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Tunneling electron microscope TEM, Scanning electron microscope SEM, EDX. The XRD pattern reveals that, the peak position was shifted to higher 2ff angle specifying the presence of Co and Ni into the lattice to form an ordered L10 phase with a reduced Pt-Pt distance. The thickness of the alloy was found to be ~4.3nm and interplaner distance of ~0.23nm which correlate with TEM analysis with an average particle size ~20nm and distribution of the catalyst on carbon support was also investigated by TEM images. SEM was used to obtain the surface morphology of the synthesized catalyst as well the amount of metallic loaded from EDX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have described the use of HAp layers on titanium alloys in the recent years. Among the methods of strengthening the adherence of such layers, which call the researchers' attention, there is the development of coating by sol-gel type techniques. Coatings of HAp on the alloy of Ti6Al4V allow the formation of uniform layers, with controlled porosity and better adhesion and with properties required for its use as orthopaedic implants. In this paper, samples of Ti6Al4V alloy were used as substrates with different surface roughness, coated with HAp layers that were deposited by a spin-coating technique, using a solution obtained by the sol-gel method. The layers have good homogeneity and good adhesion to the substrate, where stability and uniformity observes for Hap_250 and Hap_110 compared with Hap_29 and Hap_45, that indicate to the importance of surface roughness. Therefore, the biological characterization was investigated, including the film stability in the Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) and the antimicrobial activity of Ti6Al4V alloys coated with hydroxyapatite. Also, the biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa species was evaluated. The morphology and structure of the films were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum-based metal matrix composites (AMCs) play a vital role for potential applications in aerospace and automotive industries. This paper explores the experimental analysis of a composite with aluminum LM4 alloy as the matrix and tungsten carbide (WC) as the reinforcement material. The composite specimens were fabricated by the stir casting process. The reinforced ratios of 5, 10 and 15 wt.% of WC particulates were stirred in molten aluminum LM4 alloy (AALM4). Once the composite is solidified, the specimens are prepared to the required ASTM dimensions and tested for various mechanical properties such as tensile strength, impact strength and hardness. Moreover, the tribological behavior of the composite was studied using the pin-on-disc wear test apparatus. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was conducted to analyze the various elements present in the composites. Finally, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis reveals the uniform distribution of WC particles in Aluminum LM4 alloy matrix. The improvement in mechanical properties - hardness, impact strength and tensile strength - was achieved for the increase in the addition of wt.% of WC particles in the LM4 matrix. The decrease in mass loss was observed for the composite containing 15 wt.% of WC during the wear test among the various composites tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports the results of the analyses performed on a Roman quadrans dating back to the first century ad, belonging to a group of more than 8.000 coins found in the bed of river Tiber during an archaeological research in 1987–1988. The quadrans was examined by means of X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Energy dispersion spectroscopy analytical results confirmed that the coin is made of pure copper. The compounds present in the patina have been identified through X‐ray diffraction. The spectrum is the overlapping of several peaks, and the results show that the patina substantially consists of malachite Cu2CO3(OH)2, cupric chloride CuCl2, and nantokite CuCl. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy only evidences nantokite because of the different analysis depths of the two techniques. This means that nantokite forms a thin outer layer in the concretion covering the quadrans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new phosphor SrAlBO 4 doped by Eu³+ was synthesized by using very known Combustion method. The structural and optical properties explored using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The XRD pattern was matched well with the standard PDF card no. 1542236.The obtained phosphor had orthorhombic structure with space group Pccn (56). The image of Scanning electron microscope shows the external morphology of SrAlBO 4 phosphor material, which revails the irregular morphology and the material showed the non uniform structure with agglomerates' size was size ranging in several micrometers. The confirmation of present element and their percentage also shown in the EDX image. The luminescence properties of rare earth activated SrAlBO 4 phosphor were determined by measurement of excitation and emission spectra. The PL emission spectra of Eu3+ doped SrAlBO 4 phosphor show characteristics bands at 590 nm & 614 nm which corresponds due to 5D 0 →7F 1 and 5D 0 →7F 2 transition of Eu3+ ions upon 395 nm excitation. The effect of different concentration of Eu3+ on luminescence emission intensity of SrAlBO 4 phosphor was also studied. Further, concentration quenching is explained using Blasse's equation and Dexter's theory. Also, Judd-Ofelt analysis was performed on photoluminescence emission spectra. On investigation synthesized rare earth activated SrAlBO 4 phosphor can be suitable for all lighting application devices. • A series of new phosphor SrAlBO 4 : Eu³+ was synthesized by Combustion method. • The XRD pattern was matched well with the standard PDF card no. 1542236. • PL emission spectrum exhibits characteristic bands at 590 nm and 614 nm. • Concentration quenching is explained using Blasse's equation and Dexter's theory. • Judd-Ofelt analysis was performed on photoluminescence emission spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports production of nanofibers with voltage value of 20 kV, different fluid velocities (0.1 ml/h, 0.5 ml/h), different durations (2 min, 5 min), and distance of 7 cm in the electrospin assembly. The morphology of the produced nanofibers was observed before and after heat treatment by scanning electron microscope. The crystal structure of the nanofibers was examined by X-ray diffraction. In addition, thermal analysis/thermal gravimetric analysis of nanofibers was performed. X-ray diffraction measurements showed that the samples were crystalline in barium titanate. It was observed that the diameters of the nanofibers increased when the flow rate and time increased, while the diameters of the nanofibers decreased when the flow rate and time decreased. Scanning electron microscope images showed how the morphology of the samples changed by heat treatment. As a result, characterization results were found to be consistent with the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum-based nanocomposites reinforced with carbon nanotubes have increased scientific attention in today's life. The dispersion quality was the critical aspect, which decides the homogeneous distribution of CNTs within the Al matrix as starting precursors. In this study, a new attempt has been made to obtain a uniformly dispersed Al-0.75% CNT precursor via combining ultra-sonication, cubic tumbler rod milling, and spray drying. This process was integrated with organic deflocculant (formulator) in specific proportion to transform as a semi-wet-based route. The effect of milling media on the morphology and interface structure of the as-produced composite precursor after all the processing steps was investigated through scanning electron microscope (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results reveal that the approach is effective in CNT dispersion in Al precursor, which shields the nanotube structure from damage for longer periods of milling time due to the organic formulator mixture, and also, the CNT retention in the Al precursor with minimum clustering is identified compared to the ball milling process. Carbon traces were confirmed in the as-produced composite precursor by this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, compounds of B6Si were irradiated using a Co gamma source that have an energy line of 1.25 MeV at the absorbed dose rates from 14.6 kGy to 194.4 kGy. Surface morphology images of the sample obtained by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) show that the crystal structure at a high absorbed doses starts to be destroyed. X-ray diffraction studies revealed that with increasing radiation absorption dose, the spectrum intensity of the sample was decreased 1.96 times compared with the initial value. Thermal properties were studied by Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method in the temperature range of 30-1000C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium silicon nitride (TiSiN) thin films were deposited on p-type c-Si (100) with different N 2 flow rate by using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique. The microstructure, phonon modes, mechanical properties and compositional study of TiSiN thin films were characterised by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, nanoindentation and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS),respectively. The SEM images show increases in surface roughness with increasing of N 2 flow rate, however, improves the hardness and Young's modulus of TiSiN thin film. The XRD analysis reveals the presence of strain in TiSiN films. The estimated crystallites of TiSiN thin films was 7.51 and 7.39 nm for 40 and 100 sccm N 2 flow rate. The XPS reveals the presence of 20 at. % Si content at 40 sccm N 2 flow rate in the TiSiN film. To analyse the broad Raman spectra of TiSiN thin films, the peaks were convoluted into six individual Gaussian peaks. The quantitative and qualitative analysis XPS and Raman spectra of TiSiN thin films were carried out by using Origin 9.0 software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese (Mn) doping of ZnS phosphors was achieved by precipitation method using different ultrasound (US) maturation times. The structural and luminescence properties of the samples were carried out by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), photoluminescence (PL), and cathodoluminescence (CL). The real amount of manganese incorporated in ZnS lattice was calculated based on ICP-OES results. According with XRD patterns, the phase structure of ZnS:Mn samples is cubic. EDS spectra reveal deviations of the Mn dopant concentration from the target composition. Both 300 K PL and CL emission spectra of the Mn doped ZnS phosphors display intense orange emission at 590 and 600 nm, respectively, which is characteristic emission of Mn ion corresponding to a 4 T 1 → 6 A 1 transition. Both PL and CL spectra confirmed manganese is substitutionally incorporated into the ZnS host as Mn 2+ . However, it is suggested that the origin of broad blue emission around 400 nm appeared in CL is due to the radiative recombination at deep level defect states in the ZnS. The ultrasound treatment at first enhances the luminescent intensity by ∼3 times in comparison with samples prepared by classical way. This study gives rise to an optimization guideline, which is extremely demanded for the development of new luminescent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is a detailed failure analysis of galvanized high carbon steel wires, which developed coating cracks during the torsion test performed as a quality control at the end of the manufacturing process. Careful visual inspections showed that the cracks are already present in the coating before the torsion test. In order to explain the origin of these cracks, systematic metallographic investigations were performed by means of optical and scanning electron microscope on both the wires and the rods that have been cold drawn to produce the wire. The chemical composition of the galvanized coatings was evaluated by means of energy dispersive spectroscopy. Micro bidimensional X-ray diffraction experiments were also performed to measure the residual stresses in the galvanized coating. The results showed that the failure is related to two main factors: the relatively high content of silicon in the steel and the unsuitable cooling rate of the rods at the exit from the galvanizing bath. The mechanism proposed to explain the origin of the defects was supported by Finite Elements Methods simulations and verified with in-plant tests. The proper countermeasures were then applied and the problem successfully solved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper-containing thin films were synthesized by a citrate sol-gel method using ethylene glycol. The evolution of the shape and local atomic structure of the copper-containing fractal crystallites at different stages of growth was investigated by the combination of experimental and theoretical techniques. A surface morphological study of the deposited film samples was carried out using SEM. It revealed the evolution of the crystallite structures as a function of annealing temperature. To describe this mechanism diffusion-limiting aggregation and cluster-cluster models were used. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES) was applied to show the dynamics of the local atomic structure of Cu ion and the copper oxidation state at different stages of crystallites formation. It was found that at temperatures up to 250 °C the Cu2Cl(OH)3 (atacamite phase) and chelate complex are formed. With temperature increases changes in the local atomic structure as well as in morphology take place and at 500 °C CuO formed. As a result of these processes, the fractal organization of the other level was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CdZnO composite coated films were deposited on glass substrate by screen printing method at the sintering temperature of 450 °C and 550 °C. The morphological and structural details of composite films were characterized by Scanning Electron microscope (SEM), Powder X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) techniques. Similarly, optical properties were analyzed by UV–vis and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. XRD patterns revealed increase in crystallite size with increasing sintering temperature. SEM images clearly show agglomeration and increase in the grain size of the nanoparticles in high temperature sintered film. Similarly, FTIR spectra exhibit a slight shift in peak positions and increase in intensity of peaks with increase in sintering temperature. The optical absorption measurements have been used to evaluate the values of refractive index, extinction coefficients of these direct- energy band gap semiconductor films with energy band gaps distributed in the range of ∼2.81 eV at 450 °C and ∼2.70 eV at 550 °C. The imaginary and real parts of dielectric constants are also calculated, while PL spectra showed band emission shifting towards the higher side (red shift) with increase in sintering temperature. These studies revealed that on increasing sintering temperature the crystallinity of the film improves with reduction in lattice deformations in such composite films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high transparent Cu doped ZnS thin films were successfully deposited by the spray pyrolysis method at different deposition times. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed that all films were monocrystalline with the wurtzite crystal structure. A small variation in the optical band gap for all films was observed, indicating that the variation of deposition time doesn't affect strongly the bandgap. The average crystallite size of prepared thin films was calculated using Scherrer's formula and found to be in the range 29–33 nm. The crystallite size and microstrain of samples were investigated. Raman scattering spectra indicate the presence of different phonon modes and different peaks of Photoluminescence spectra for all samples which confirmed the presence of the elements Zn, S, and Cu with a comparison to the previous reported work. Using scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of elaborated thin films show a spherical with agglomeration. UV–visible measurements revealed height transmittance in the visible range for all growth time. [Display omitted] • The influence of Deposition time on physical properties Cu doped ZnS thin films using spray pyrolysis. • The structural and optical study using XRD, Raman and photoluminescence of Cu doped ZnS thin films. • Optical properties demonstrate the use of the materials in Photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg0.3Zn0.7NixFe2-xO4 (x=0.0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6) nanoparticles were prepared by solgel auto combustion method. The obtained powders were double sintered at 850 and 1100°C successively. The structural investigations were done using X-ray difractometer(XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Magnetic property of these ferrites as a function of Ni concentration was studied using vibration sample magnetometer (VSM). All ferrite samples have low coercive force (Hc) exhibits the soft magnetic properties. The influence of grain size and its effects on domain walls on magnetic properties of ferrites was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pure and Zn-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles were prepared successfully by hydrothermal route on large scale having different doping concentration of zinc from 0 to 0.20%. The calcined nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) for structural and morphological studies. XRD analyses reveal that the nanoparticles of these doping concentrations are polycrystalline in nature and existed as tetragonal rutile structure, SEM study of images confirms the existence of very small, homogeneously distributed, and spherical nanoparticles. The particles size of the nanoparticles was calculated by Scherrer formula and was found in the range of 9–21 nm. The presence of dopant (i.e. zinc) and formation of Sn–O phase and hydrous nature of Zn-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles are confirmed by EDX and FTIR study. The gas sensing properties of pure and Zn-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles were investigated for various concentrations of methanol, ethanol and acetone at different operating temperatures and it has been found that with doping concentration of zinc (x = 0.20%) shows the maximum response 78% to methanol, 65% to ethanol and 62% to acetone respectively at different operating temperature within the measurement limit for a concentration of 100 ppm of each gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osseointegration of an implant takes place when cells interact with implanted material, which depends on the surface and microstructural properties of the materials. In order to study the response of surface modified bioactive glasses in body fluid, glass samples with nominal composition (wt.%) 45SiO 2 –24.5CaO–24.5Na 2 O–6P 2 O 5 are prepared by melt-quench technique and characterized for thermo-physical and structural properties. The glass samples are irradiated with nanosecond laser at different laser fluences. Structural and microstructural features of laser treated samples are investigated by Raman and scanning electron microscope. The morphology of laser treated glass samples has shown the formation of porous microstructure with pore size varying from 50 nm to 2 μm. In vitro testing of laser treated samples in simulated body fluid reveals a significant improvement in the formation of bioactive layer in comparison to untreated bioactive glass samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to examine and analyze a wooden face that was covered with a transparent layer of wax after finishing the mask. The use of wax and encaustic painting was used in Ancient Egypt during the Greco - Roman period, but it was an extremely rare technique in the Egyptian dynasties. The wooden face that was chosen for this study was carefully examined using light microscopy to identify the wood, which proved to be native sycomore fig (Ficus sycomorus). Digital microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were used to assess decay of the outer exposed surface that had been covered in the past with a preparation layer composed of calcium carbonate. SEM micrographs showed clear decay of the cell walls due to the penetration of both the preparation layer and fungal hyphae. Microbiological investigation indicated the presence a bacterial and fungal infestation. The wood was infected infected by Aspergillus niger and Ulocladium sp fungi and Pediococcus dextrinicus bacteria. Further assessment was done by X- Ray Diffraction (XRD) to calculate the decrease of cellulose crystallinity according to Segal and Fourier Transform spectroscopy (FTIR) to detect the changes of the main wood components (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 (organic–inorganic) nanocomposites, using a novel approach, has been proposed, and further envisaged for their structural, compositional, morphological, optical and electrical properties. DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites demonstrate superior above mentioned properties than their counterparts i.e. either PPy or WO 3 . The XRD spectra of nanocomposites supported to conclude that both i.e. PPy and DBSA have no impact on the crystallinity of WO 3 nanoparticles. The chemical structure of DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites have been elucidated using FTIR spectra. The morphologies and surface roughnesses of the DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites were confirmed using scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope images, respectively. Interconnected type morphology and 13 nm average surface roughness were confirmed for DBSA doped PPy–WO 3 hybrid nanocomposites. The EDX and XPS analyses evidence that, the formation of DBSA doped PPy–WO 3 hybrid nanocomposites without any elemental impurities. The absorption peak of DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites shift towards the lower wavelength side as compared to the PPy–WO 3 (50%) hybrid nanocomposites. Anionically charged sulfonate group which is supposed to stabilize doped state of the DBSA-PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites, may be responsible for this shift. The dc electrical conductivity of DBSA-doped PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites increases as the content of DBSA is increased from 10 to 50% this could be accounted for by the generation of conduction path through the PPy–WO 3 nanocomposites as DBSA has anionic surfactant nature by preventing an agglomeration of functional material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Perlite-based geopolymer can be produced by one-part mixture method. • Nano-CaO affects the strength of perlite-based geopolymer concrete negatively. • Nano-Al 2 O 3 affects the strength of perlite-based geopolymer concrete positively. • Nano-additives were more effective in reducing the volume of macropores formed in geopolymer concrete. In terms of sustainability, alternative binders have been sought despite the environmental effects of CO 2 gas released as a result of cement production. In accordance with this purpose, geopolymer binders produced by activating aluminosilicate materials with alkalis are one of these alternatives. This study aimed to produce one-part geopolymer concrete from aluminosilicate-based perlite, which is rich in SiO 2, and to improve its mechanical properties by adding nanomaterials. The effect of using nano-Al 2 O 3 and nano-CaO at 1 %, 2 %, and 3 % by weight instead of perlite on the properties of geopolymer concrete under different curing conditions (heat + ambient and heat + water curing) was investigated with SEM (scanning electron microscope), XRD (X-ray Diffraction), t -Plot/BJH (specific surface area and pore size distribution) and FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) tests, the compressive strength, flexural strength, length change. As a result, the applicability of the one-part mixture method in the production of perlite-based geopolymer concrete has been determined. Nano-Al 2 O 3 was found to be effective in perlite-based geopolymer concrete in terms of compressive strength and the optimum curing condition was heat + ambient curing. The addition of nanomaterials especially prevented crack and pore formation and according to t -Plot/BJH analysis, were more effective in lowering the number of macropores generated in geopolymer concrete, but increased the number of micropores. Moreover, the nanoparticles had no discernible effect on the geopolymerization process of perlite-based geopolymer concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a multi-instrument characterization of the carbon particles in carbon/polymer/nanodiamond core-shell materials used for high-performance liquid chromatography. These particles are prepared by the carbonization/pyrolysis of poly(divinylbenzene) (PDVB) microspheres. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the particles (4.9 µm initially) decreased in size after air oxidation (to 4.4 µm) and again after carbonization (down to 3.5 µm) but remained highly spherical. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller measurements showed low surface areas initially (as received: 1.6 m2/g, after air oxidation: 2.6 m2/g) but high values after carbonization (445 m2/g). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the changes in the functional groups after air oxidation (C = O and C-O stretches appear), carbonization (carbon-oxygen containing moieties disappear), and acid treatment (reintroduction of carbon-oxygen containing moieties). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and elemental analysis revealed the surface and bulk oxygen contents before and after treatments. By XPS, the atom percent oxygen for the as received, air oxidized, carbonized, and acid treated particles are 8.7, 16.6, 3.7, and 13.8, respectively, and by elemental analysis, the percent oxygen in the materials is 0.6, 8.1, 0.9, 16.9, respectively. A principal components analysis of time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry data identified ions that were enhanced in the different materials, where almost 90% of the variation in the analyzed peak areas was captured by two principle components. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy suggested that the carbonized PDVB was disordered. Thermogravimetric analysis showed significant differences between the differently treated PDVB microspheres. This work applies directly to a commercial product and the process for preparing it. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical aspects of tobacco samples, used in some commonly available Indian brands of cigarettes, with emphasis on their magnetic characterization before and after they get burnt into ashes, are described. The present work highlights the ultrafine nature of the cigarette ashes and provides a compositional insight of their constituent particulate matters as revealed by the XRD and SEM studies. Based on the EDX spectra, elemental distributions of different tobacco samples, before and after they get burnt, are presented. In this work, magnetic measurements of the un-burnt tobacco samples are reported. An attempt is made to shed light on the origin of magnetism observed in these samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ba3MoTiO8 phosphor were prepared using solid-state, combustion, and sol-gel methods • XRD pattern of different synthesis techniques show rhombohedral phase for BMT phosphor • BMT phosphor prepared by combustion method show relatively high luminous intensity. • Dexter theory applied revel dipole-dipole interaction responsible for energy transfer. • CIE points calculated for combustion synthesized BMT phosphor lies in the red region. Barium Molybdenum Titanate (Ba 3 MoTiO 8) phosphor activated with Eu3+ ions has been synthesized successfully by three different routes such as solid-state reaction method (SSM), combustion method (CMM), and sol-gel combustion method (SGM) to optimize relatively best synthesis technique and temperature of synthesis. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns have been used to confirm the phase and crystallinity of the as-prepared phosphor. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Raman spectra have been used to study the morphological behaviorhas and different vibrational bands present in the structure of the titled phosphor respectively. Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (DRS) have been recorded to find out the optical band gap of phosphors. Photoluminescence (PL) spectral features recorded under 393 nm and 465 nm excitation wavelengths reveal an intense red emission at 612 nm corresponding to 5D 0 →7F 2 transition of the doped Eu3+ ions. CMM synthesized sample has shown maximum luminescence intensity out of the three methods and further studies have been carried out by preparing a series of europium ions doped Ba 3 MoTiO 8 phosphor using the CMM technique. The PL decay curves recorded for 612 nm red emission under 393 nm excitation show non-linear double exponential nature with a decrease in an experimental lifetime with an increase in Eu3+ ions concentration in the as-prepared phosphors. All the morphological and photoluminescence studies carried out on the Eu3+ ions doped Ba 3 MoTiO 8 phosphor contemplate the suitability of the as-prepared phosphor for a red component in white light-emitting diode (w-LEDs) applications. (a) SSM0 (d) SGM0 and (g) CMM0 with a magnification of 5.0KX. (b) SSM0 (e) SGM0 and (h) CMM0 with a magnification of 10.0KX. (c) SSM0 (f) SGM0 and (i) CMM0 with a magnification of 35.0KX. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium doped Copper ferrite (Ca x Cu 1-x Fe 2 O 4 , x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation method. The effect of calcium doping in structural, elastic and magnetic properties of copper ferrite were explored by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and Vibrating Sample magnetometer (VSM). X-ray diffraction verified the single phase cubic spinel structure and hematite phase also present in x = 0.02 with the space group Fd3m. The average crystallite size ranged in 44–58 nm and increased with increasing Ca concentration. Scanning electron microscope images showed that the ferrite particles seem in spherical shape with agglomeration. The Fourier transform infrared spectrum showed the two main absorption bands of spinel structure in the wavenumber scale of 476–576 cm−1 assigned to the stretching vibration of A and B sites. The three types of moduli of elasticity, Poisson's ratio, velocities of elastic waves and Debye temperature estimated using FTIR. Vibrating Sample magnetometer exhibited the room temperature ferromagnetic behavior and coercivity decreases with Ca concentration while saturation magnetization increases. • Ca-doped copper ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by co - precipitation method. • The ionic radii, bond lengths, and hopping lengths were determined using XRD. • Different elastic parameters were estimated using FTIR. • Ca-doping improved the magnetic properties of Copper ferrite nanoparticles. • The RT ferromagnetism was observed in all samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Preparation of nanosized Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 system by simple method. [•] Characterization of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 system by different techniques to confirm the formation of single phase. [•] Determination of the magnetic properties of the as prepared Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 system. [•] Using the SEM and EDX to determine the element gradient and the homogeneity of particles. [•] The possibility of the control in the magnetic properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Preparation of nanosized CoFe2O4 system by simple method. On other hand, preparation of magnetic CoFe2O4/PEVA composites. [•] Characterization of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and CoFe2O4/PEVA composites by different techniques to confirm the formation of single CoFe2O4 phase and CoFe2O4/PEVA composites. [•] Determination of the magnetic properties of the as prepared systems. [•] Using the SEM and EDX to determine the morphology and chemical composition of the as prepared systems. [•] The possibility of the control in the magnetic properties of CoFe2O4/PEVA composites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The decomposition of goethite and goethite/siderite concentrates into hematite with thermal modification was studied through the measurements of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The experimental results showed that goethite decomposed into hematite directly at around 300°C without any intermediate phase and the decomposition of siderite completed at 500°C. Nanoscale granular structures were observed in the thermally treated products. It deserves highlighting that the decomposition processes proceeded from surfaces into bulks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to understand the effect of ground conditions on microbial cementation in cohesionless soils. Since the method of microbial cementation is still at the experimental stage, for its practical use in the field, a number of laboratory experiments are required for the quantification of microbial cementation under various ground conditions, such as relative densities, relative compactions and particle size distributions. In this study, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of microbial cementation in treated sands and silts, an experiment was performed for different relative densities of silica sands, for different relative compactions of silts and for different particle size distributions of weathered soils sampled from the field. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and mapping analyses were implemented for the quantification of the levels of microbial cementations for sand, silt and weathered soil specimens. Based on the test results, a considerable microbial cementation was estimated depending on the soil conditions; therefore, an implementation of this new type of bio-grouting on a weak foundation may be possible to increase the strength and stiffness of weak ground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of hard magnetic Ferrous Tungsten Phosphorous (Fe-W-P) films electrodeposited in the presence of urea as additive and phosphorous as precursor with varying concentrations were studied for different current densities in order to get different thickness and uniform deposits. The magnetic saturation (Ms), retentivity (Mr) and coercivity (Hc) of the films were studied using vibrating sample magnetometer. Magnetic properties of the deposited films were increased with the increase of organic additive and phosphorous. The crystallite size and stress of the deposited thin films were calculated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Percentages of elemental analysis of Fe-W-P films were obtained using energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX). Surface morphology analysis was carried using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The magnetic properties and structural characteristics of the thin films deposited under various experimental conditions are discussed. Hardness and adhesion of the deposited thin films were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Composite films of TiN/Ni3N/a-Si3N4were synthesized using the Mather-type plasma focus device with varying numbers of focus deposition shots (5, 15, and 25) at 0° and 10° angular positions. The composition and structural analysis of these films were analyzed by using Rutherford backscattering (RBS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope were used to study the surface morphology of films. XRD patterns confirm the formation of composite TiN/Ni3N/a-Si3N4films. The crystallite size of TiN (200) plane is 11 and 22 nm, respectively, at 0° and 10° angular positions for same 25 focus deposition shots. Impurity levels and thickness were measured using RBS. Scanning electron microscopy results show the formation of net-like structures for multiple focus shots (5, 15, and 25) at angular positions of 0° and 10°. The average surface roughness of the deposited films increases with increasing focus shots. The roughness of the film decreases at higher angle 10° and the films obtained are smoother as compared with the films deposited at 0° angular positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]