Name: production of synthetic nuclear melt glass
Uploaded: 2016-01-04T13:00:01
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Production of Synthetic Nuclear Melt Glass at JoVE.com

Portions of this study have been previously published in the Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry.3,13 A patent is pending for this method.

Caution: The process outlined here includes the use of radioactive material (e.g., Uranium Nitrate Hexahydrate) and several corrosive substances. Appropriate protective clothing and equipment should be used (including a lab coat, gloves, eye protection, and a fume hood) during sample preparation. In addition, laboratory areas used for this work should be monitored regularly for radioactive contamination.
Note: The chemical compounds needed are listed in Table 1. This formulation was developed by examining pre...

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J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Development+of+synthetic+nuclear+melt+glass+for+forensic+analysis.">Development of synthetic nuclear melt glass for forensic analysis.</a> J Radioanal Nucl Chem. 304 (3), 1293-1301 (2015).</li><li>Fluegel, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Modeling+of+Glass+Liquidus+Temperatures+using+Disconnected+Peak+Functions.">Modeling of Glass Liquidus Temperatures using Disconnected Peak Functions.</a> , (2007).</li><li>Oldham, C. J., Molgaard, J. J., Auxier, J. D., Hall, H. 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D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Porous+chromatographic+materials+as+substrates+for+preparing+synthetic+nuclear+explosion+debris+particles.">Porous chromatographic materials as substrates for preparing synthetic nuclear explosion debris particles.</a> J Radioanal Nucl Chem. 298 (3), 1885-1898 (2013).</li><li>Hanni, J. B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Liquidus+temperature+measurements+for+modeling+oxide+glass+systems+relevant+to+nuclear+waste+vitrification.">Liquidus temperature measurements for modeling oxide glass systems relevant to nuclear waste vitrification.</a> J Mater Res. 20 (12), 3346-3357 (2005).</li><li>Weber, W. J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Radiation+Effects+in+Glasses+Used+for+Immobilization+of+High-Level+Waste+and+Plutonium+Disposition.">Radiation Effects in Glasses Used for Immobilization of High-Level Waste and Plutonium Disposition.</a> J Mater Res. 12 (8), 1946-1978 (1997).</li><li>Eby, N., Hermes, R., Charnley, N., Smoliga, J. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Trinitite-the+atomic+rock.">Trinitite-the atomic rock.</a> Geol Today. 26 (5), 180-185 (2010).</li><li>Bellucci, J. J., Simonetti, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Nuclear+forensics:+searching+for+nuclear+device+debris+in+trinitite-hosted+inclusions.">Nuclear forensics: searching for nuclear device debris in trinitite-hosted inclusions.</a> J Radioanal Nucl Chem. 293 (1), 313-319 (2012).</li><li>Ross, C. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Optical Properties of Glass from Alamogordo, New Mexico. , (1948).</li><li>Giminaro, A. V., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Compositional+planning+for+development+of+synthetic+urban+nuclear+melt+glass.">Compositional planning for development of synthetic urban nuclear melt glass.</a> J Radional Nucl Chem. , (2015).</li><li>Cook, M. T., Auxier, J. D., Giminaro, A. V., Molgaard, J. J., Knowles, J. R., Hall, H. L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+comparison+of+gamma+spectra+from+trinitite+versus+irradiated+synthetic+nuclear+melt+glass.">A comparison of gamma spectra from trinitite versus irradiated synthetic nuclear melt glass.</a> J Radioanal Nucl Chem. , (2015).</li><li>Fahey, J., Zeissler, C. J., Newbury, D. E., Davis, J., Lindstrom, R. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Postdetonation+nuclear+debris+for+attribution.">Postdetonation nuclear debris for attribution.</a> Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 107 (47), 20207-20212 (2010).</li><li>Bellucci, J. J., Simonetti, A., Koeman, E. C., Wallace, C., Burns, P. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+detailed+geochemical+investigation+of+post-nuclear+detonation+trinitite+glass+at+high+spatial+resolution:+Delineating+anthropogenic+vs.+natural+components.">A detailed geochemical investigation of post-nuclear detonation trinitite glass at high spatial resolution: Delineating anthropogenic vs. natural components.</a> Chem Geol. 365, 69-86 (2014).</li><li>Donohue, P. H., Simonetti, A., Koeman, E. C., Mana, S., Peter, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Nuclear+Forensic+Applications+Involving+High+Spatial+Resolution+Analysis+of+Trinitite+Cross-Sections.">Nuclear Forensic Applications Involving High Spatial Resolution Analysis of Trinitite Cross-Sections.</a> J Radioanal Nucl Chem. , (2015).</li><li>Eaton, G. F., Smith, D. 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Note regarding steps 1.2.2 and 1.2.3: The exact amount of UNH will vary depending on the scenario being simulated. The planning formulas developed by Giminaro et al. can be used to choose the appropriate mass of uranium for a given sample13 as discussed in the &#34;Sample Activation&#34; section of this paper. Also, Uranium Oxide (UO2 or U3O8) may be used in place of UNH, if available, and the mass fraction of 235U in the compound (whether UNH or Uranium Oxi...

Concerns over the potential malicious use of nuclear weapons by terrorists or rogue nations have highlighted the importance of nuclear forensics analysis for the purpose of attribution.1 Rapid post-detonation analysis techniques are desirable to shorten the attribution timeline as much as possible. The development and validation of such techniques requires realistic nuclear debris samples for testing. Nuclear testing no longer occurs in the United States and nuclear surface debris from the testing era is not readily available (with the exception of trinitite - the melt glass produced by the first nuclear test at the trinity site) and therefore realistic surrogate debris is needed. 
The primary goal of the method described here is the production of realistic surrogate nuclear debris similar to trinitite. Synthetic nuclear melt glass samples which are readily available to the academic community can be used to test existing analysis techniques and to develop new methods such as thermo-chromatography for rapid post-detonation analysis.2 With this goal in mind the current study is focused on producing samples which mimic trinitite but do not contain any sensitive weapon design information. The fuel and tamper components within these samples are completely generic and the comparison to trinitite is based on chemistry, morphology, and physical characteristics. The similarities between trinitite and the synthetic nuclear melt glass produced in this study have been previously discussed.3
The purpose of this article is to outline the details of the production process used at the University of Tennessee (UT). This production process was developed with two key parameters in mind: 1) the composition of material incorporated into nuclear melt glass, and 2) the melting temperature of the material. Methods exist for estimating the melting temperature of glass forming networks4 and these techniques have been employed here, along with additional experimentation to determine the optimal processing temperature for the trinitite matrix.5
Alternative methods for surrogate debris production have been published recently. The use of high power lasers has the advantage of creating sufficiently high temperatures to cause elemental fractionation within the target matrix.6 Porous chromatographic substrates have been used to produce small particles similar to fallout particles using condensed phase methods7. The latter method is most useful for producing particulate debris (nuclear fallout) and has been demonstrated with natural metals. The advantages of the method presented here are 1) simplicity, 2) reproducibility, and 3) scalability (sample sizes can range from tiny beads to large chunks of melt glass). Also, this method is expandable both in terms of production output and variety of explosive scenarios covered, and it has already been demonstrated using radioactive materials. A sample has been successfully activated at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Natural uranium compounds were added to the matrix prior to melting and fission products were produced in situ by neutron irradiation. 
Methods within the glass making industry and those employed for the purpose of radioactive waste immobilization8 have been consulted in the development of the method presented here. The unique effects of radiation in glasses are of inherent interest9 and will constitute an important area of study as this method is further developed. 
The method described below is appropriate for any application where a bulk melt glass sample is desired. These samples most closely resemble the material found near the epicenter of a nuclear explosion. Samples of various sizes can be produced, however, methods employing plasma torches or lasers will be more useful for simulating fine particulate debris. Also, commercial HTFs do not reach temperatures high enough to cause elemental fractionation for a wide range of elements. This method should be employed when physical and morphological characteristics are of primary importance.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="1019">
	<tbody>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">High Temperature Furnace (HTF)</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Carbolite</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">HTF 18</td>
			<td style="width:469px;">1800C HTF used to melt samples</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">High Temperature Drop Furnace</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">CM Inc.</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">1706 BL</td>
			<td>1700C Drop Furnace used to melt samples</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Graphite Crucibles</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">SCP Science</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">040-060-041</td>
			<td>27 mL high purity graphite crucibles (10 pack)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Crucible Tongs</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Grainger</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">5ZPV0</td>
			<td>26 in, stainless steele tongs for handling crucibles</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Heat Resistent Gloves</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Grainger</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">8814-09</td>
			<td>Gloves used to protect hands from heat during sample intro/removal</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Mortar &#38; Pestle</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Fisherbrand</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">S337631</td>
			<td>300 mL, Ceramic mortar and pestle for powdering and mixing</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Micro Balance</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Grainger</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">8NJG2</td>
			<td>220g Cap, high precision scale for measuring powder mass</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Spatulas</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Fisherbrand</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">14374</td>
			<td>Metal spatulas for measure small quantities of powder</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">SiO2</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">274739-5KG</td>
			<td>Quartz Sand&#160; CAS Number: 14808-60-7</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Al2O3</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">11028-1KG</td>
			<td>Aluminum Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1344-28-1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">CaO</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">12047-2.5KG</td>
			<td>Calcium Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1305-78-8</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">FeO</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">400866-25G</td>
			<td>Iron Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1345-25-1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">MgO</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">342793-250G</td>
			<td>Magnesium Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1309-48-4</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">Na2O</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">36712-25G</td>
			<td>Sodium Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1313-59-3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;">KOH</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">278904-250G</td>
			<td>Potasium Hydroxide Pellets&#160; CAS Number: 12030-88-5</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">MnO</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">377201-500G</td>
			<td>Manganese Oxide Powder&#160; CAS Number: 1344-43-0</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="26">
			<td height="26" style="height:27px;width:231px;">TiO2</td>
			<td style="width:200px;">Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">791326-5G</td>
			<td>Titanium Oxide Beads&#160; CAS Number: 12188-41-9</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

production of synthetic nuclear melt glass

Realistic surrogate nuclear debris is needed within the nuclear forensics community to test and validate post-detonation analysis techniques. Here we outline a novel process for producing bulk surface debris using a high temperature furnace. The material developed in this study is physically and chemically similar to trinitite (the melt glass produced by the first nuclear test). This synthetic nuclear melt glass is assumed to be similar to the vitrified material produced near the epicenter (ground zero) of any surface nuclear detonation in a desert environment. The process outlined here can be applied to produce other types of nuclear melt glass including that likely to be formed in an urban environment. This can be accomplished by simply modifying the precursor matrix to which this production process is applied. The melt glass produced in this study has been analyzed and compared to trinitite, revealing a comparable crystalline morphology, physical structure, void fraction, and chemical composition.

The non-radioactive samples produced in this study have been compared to trinitite and Figures 1-3 show that the physical properties and morphology are indeed similar. Figure 1 provides photographs that reveal the similarities in color and texture which are observed at the macroscopic level. Figure 2 shows Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Secondary Electron (SE) images which reveal similar features at the micron level. SEM analysis was performed using a SEM and SEM sof...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Production of Synthetic Nuclear Melt Glass at JoVE.com

Production of Synthetic Nuclear Melt Glass

A protocol for the production of synthetic nuclear melt glass, similar to trinitite, is presented.

Realistic surrogate nuclear debris is needed within the nuclear forensics community to test and validate post-detonation analysis techniques. Here we ...

The overall goal of this procedure is to make surrogate nuclear melt glass to prepare materials that can be used as standards for the nuclear forensics community. The method that you're going to see today can help answer key questions in nuclear forensics field, such as challenges in analyzing nuclear melt glass and the effects that interfere with mass spectrometry techniques. The main disadvantage of this technique is that it cannot simulate the pressures found in nuclear weapon detonations.In the video today, you are going to see my graduate students, Andrew Giminaro and Jonathan Gill as they demonstrate how to make a synthetic nuclear melt glass. First, acquire the requisite quantities of quartz sand and additional components as indicated in the text protocol. Use a microbalance and small spatula to precisely measure the mass fractions of each compound as listed here.Next, use the mortar and pestle to pulverize and thoroughly mix the compounds, forming a homogenous powder mixture. Agitate using a ball mixer immediately prior to the next step. Following this, acquire a few medium sized crystals of UNH.Inside a fume hood pulverize the UNH crystals using a mortar and pestle to form a fine powder of one to two micron granules. Add 33.75 micrograms of UNH per gram of the non-radioactive precursor matrix. Thoroughly mix the powder mixture, including the UNH, using a mortar and pestle.At this point, fill a thick ceramic dish such as a mortar with approximately 100 grams of pure quartz sand and maintain at room temperature near the location of the furnace where the samples will be melted. Preheat the high temperature furnace to 1, 500 degrees Celsius. After carefully measuring one gram of the radioactive powder mixture, place it in a high purity graphite crucible.Following this, carefully place the crucible in the heated high temperature furnace using a long pari of steel crucible tongs. After melting the mixture for 30 minutes, remove the same from the furnace and pour it into mortar filled with sand. Photographs reveal the similarities in color and texture of the non-radioactive samples and trinitite produced in this study, which are observed at the macroscopic level.Scanning electron microscopes secondary electron images, which reveal similar features at the micron level are displayed here. Numerous voids are observed and the defects and heterogeneity are similar in both trinitite and the synthetic samples. A comparison of powder x-ray defraction spectra for trinitite and the synthetic samples is shown here.Quartz is the only mineral present in both cases and the peak intensities are similar, suggesting a comparable degree of amorphousness. Once mastered, this technique can be done in four hours if done properly. When performing this method, it's very important to be very cautious about the high temperatures that are used in this procedure.Following this procedure, other methods like the development of urban melt glass can be performed in order to answer additional questions, such as the differences between morphologies and cities. After its development, this technique paved the way for researchers in the field of nuclear forensics to explore the possible deficiencies and analytical techniques required to perform analysis on post-detonation debris. After watching this video, you should have a good understanding on how to produce and analyze surrogate nuclear debris that closely resembles the debris found in the trinity test.When working with high temperature furnaces, this can be extremely hazardous and precautions such as wearing appropriate eyewear and temperate-rated personal protective equipment should always be taken when performing this method.

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Solution-based electrospray film deposition, which is compatible with continuous, roll-to-roll processing, is applied to chalcogenide glasses. Two chalcogenide compositions are demonstrated: Ge23Sb7S70 and As40S60, which have both been studied extensively for planar mid-infrared (mid-IR) microphotonic devices. In this approach, uniform thickness films are fabricated through the use of computer numerical controlled (CNC) motion. Chalcogenide glass (ChG) is written over the substrate by a single nozzle along a serpentine path. Films were subjected to a series of heat treatments between 100 &#176;C and 200 &#176;C under vacuum to drive off residual solvent and densify the films. Based on transmission Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and surface roughness measurements, both compositions were found to be suitable for the fabrication of planar devices operating in the mid-IR region. Residual solvent removal was found to be much quicker for the As40S60 film as compared to Ge23Sb7S70. Based on the advantages of electrospray, direct printing of a gradient refractive index (GRIN) mid-IR transparent coating is envisioned, given the difference in refractive index of the two compositions in this study.

Electrospray Deposition of Uniform Thickness Ge23Sb7S70 and As40S60 Chalcogenide Glass Films

A method of uniform thickness solution-derived chalcogenide glass film deposition is demonstrated using computer numerical controlled motion of a single-nozzle electrospray.

Solution-based electrospray film deposition, which is compatible with continuous, roll-to-roll processing, is applied to chalcogenide glasses. Two ...

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X-ray spectra provide a wealth of information on high temperature plasmas; for example electron temperature and density can be inferred from line intensity ratios. By using a Johann spectrometer viewing the plasma, it is possible to construct profiles of plasma parameters such as density, temperature, and velocity with good spatial and time resolution. However, benchmarking atomic code modeling of X-ray spectra obtained from well-diagnosed laboratory plasmas is important to justify use of such spectra to determine plasma parameters when other independent diagnostics are not available. This manuscript presents the operation of the High Resolution X-ray Crystal Imaging Spectrometer with Spatial Resolution (HIREXSR), a high wavelength resolution spatially imaging X-ray spectrometer used to view hydrogen- and helium-like ions of medium atomic number elements in a tokamak plasma. In addition, this manuscript covers a laser blow-off system that can introduce such ions to the plasma with precise timing to allow for perturbative studies of transport in the plasma.

X-ray spectra provide a wealth of information on high temperature plasmas. This manuscript presents the operation of a high wavelength resolution spatially imaging X-ray spectrometer used to view hydrogen- and helium-like ions of medium atomic number elements in a tokamak plasma.

X-ray spectra provide a wealth of information on high temperature plasmas; for example electron temperature and density can be inferred from line ...

Indoor Experimental Assessment of the Efficiency and Irradiance Spot of the Achromatic Doublet on Glass (ADG) Fresnel Lens for Concentrating Photovoltaics

We present a method to characterize achromatic Fresnel lenses for photovoltaic applications. The achromatic doublet on glass (ADG) Fresnel lens is composed of two materials, a plastic and an elastomer, whose dispersion characteristics (refractive index variation with wavelength) are different. We first designed the lens geometry and then used ray-tracing simulation, based on the Monte Carlo method, to analyze its performance from the point of view of both optical efficiency and the maximum attainable concentration. Afterwards, ADG Fresnel lens prototypes were manufactured using a simple and reliable method. It consists of a prior injection of plastic parts and a consecutive lamination, together with the elastomer and a glass substrate to fabricate the parquet of ADG Fresnel lenses. The accuracy of the manufactured lens profile is examined using an optical microscope while its optical performance is evaluated using a solar simulator for concentrator photovoltaic systems. The simulator is composed of a xenon flash lamp whose emitted light is reflected by a parabolic mirror. The collimated light has a spectral distribution and an angular aperture similar to the real Sun. We were able to assess the optical performance of the ADG Fresnel lenses by taking photographs of the irradiance spot cast by the lens using a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera and measuring the photocurrent generated by several types of multi junction (MJ) solar cells, which have been previously characterized at a solar simulator for concentrator solar cells. These measurements have demonstrated the achromatic behavior of ADG Fresnel lenses and, as a consequence, the suitability of the modelling and manufacturing methods.

Indoor Experimental Assessment of the Efficiency and Irradiance Spot of the Achromatic Doublet on Glass ADG Fresnel Lens for Concentrating Photovoltaics

The achromatic doublet on glass (ADG) Fresnel lens makes use of two materials with differing dispersion to reduce chromatic aberration and increase attainable concentration. In this paper, a protocol for the complete characterization of the ADG Fresnel lens is presented.

We present a method to characterize achromatic Fresnel lenses for photovoltaic applications. The achromatic doublet on glass (ADG) Fresnel lens is ...

Production and Characterization of Vacuum Deposited Organic Light Emitting Diodes

A method for producing simple and efficient thermally-activated delayed fluorescence organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on guest-host or exciplex donor-acceptor emitters is presented. With a step-by-step procedure, readers will be able to repeat and produce OLED devices based on simple organic emitters. A patterning procedure allowing the creation of personalized indium tin oxide (ITO) shape is shown. This is followed by the evaporation of all layers, encapsulation and characterization of each individual device. The end goal is to present a procedure that will give the opportunity to repeat the information presented in cited publication but also using different compounds and structures in order to prepare efficient OLEDs.

A protocol for the production of simple structured organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) is presented.

A method for producing simple and efficient thermally-activated delayed fluorescence organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on guest-host or exciplex ...

Methods of Ex Situ and In Situ Investigations of Structural Transformations: The Case of Crystallization of Metallic Glasses

We demonstrate the use of two nuclear-based analytical methods that can follow the modifications of microstructural arrangement of iron-based metallic glasses (MGs). Despite their amorphous nature, the identification of hyperfine interactions unveils faint structural modifications. For this purpose, we have employed two techniques that utilize nuclear resonance among nuclear levels of a stable 57Fe isotope, namely M&#246;ssbauer spectrometry and nuclear forward scattering (NFS) of synchrotron radiation. The effects of heat treatment upon (Fe2.85Co1)77Mo8Cu1B14 MG are discussed using the results of ex situ and in situ experiments, respectively. As both methods are sensitive to hyperfine interactions, information on structural arrangement as well as on magnetic microstructure is readily available. M&#246;ssbauer spectrometry performed ex situ describes how the structural arrangement and magnetic microstructure appears at room temperature after the annealing under certain conditions (temperature, time), and thus this technique inspects steady states. On the other hand, NFS data are recorded in situ during dynamically changing temperature and NFS examines transient states. The use of both techniques provides complementary information. In general, they can be applied to any suitable system in which it is important to know its steady state but also transient states.

Methods of Ex Situ and In Situ Investigations of Structural Transformations: The Case of Crystallization of Metallic Glasses

Here, we present a protocol to describe ex situ and in situ investigations of structural transformations in metallic glasses. We employed nuclear-based analytical methods which inspect hyperfine interactions. We demonstrate the applicability of M&#246;ssbauer spectrometry and nuclear forward scattering of synchrotron radiation during temperature-driven experiments.

We demonstrate the use of two nuclear-based analytical methods that can follow the modifications of microstructural arrangement of iron-based metallic ...

Optimized Sealing Process and Real-Time Monitoring of Glass-to-Metal Seal Structures

Residual stress is an essential factor to keeping the hermeticity and robustness of a glass-to-metal seal structure. The purpose of this report is to demonstrate a novel protocol to characterize and measure residual stress in a glass-to-metal seal structure without destroying the insulation and hermeticity of sealing materials. In this research, a femto-laser inscribed fiber Bragg grating sensor is used. The glass-to-metal seal structure that is measured consists of a metal shell, sealing glass, and Kovar conductor. To make the measurements worthwhile, the specific heat treatment of metal-to-glass seal (MTGS) structure is explored to obtain the model with best hermeticity. Then, the FBG sensor is embedded into the path of sealing glass and becomes well-fused with the glass as the temperature cools to RT. The Bragg wavelength of FBG shifts with the residual stress generated in sealing the glass. To calculate the residual stress, the relationship between Bragg wavelength shift and strain is applied, and the finite element method is also used to make the results reliable. The online monitoring experiments of residual stress in sealing glass are carried out at different loads, such as high temperature and high pressure, to broaden functions of this protocol in harsh environments.

Key procedures to optimize the sealing process and achieve real-time monitoring of the metal-to-glass seal (MTGS) structure are described in detail. The embedded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor is designed to achieve online monitoring of temperature and high-level residual stress in the MTGS with simultaneous environmental pressure monitoring.

Residual stress is an essential factor to keeping the hermeticity and robustness of a glass-to-metal seal structure. The purpose of this report is to ...

Production of a Strain-Measuring Device with an Improved 3D Printer

A traditional strain measurement sensor needs to be electrified and is susceptible to electromagnetic interference. In order to solve the fluctuations in the analog electrical signal in a traditional strain gauge operation, a new strain measurement method is presented here. It uses a photographic technique to display the strain change by amplifying the change of the pointer displacement of the mechanism. A visual polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) lens with a focal length of 7.16 mm was added to a smartphone camera to generate a lens group acting as a microscope to capture images. It had an equivalent focal length of 5.74 mm. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and nylon amplifiers were used to test the influence of different materials on the sensor performance. The production of the amplifiers and PDMS lens is based on improved 3D printing technology. The data obtained were compared with the results from finite element analysis (FEA) to verify their validity. The sensitivity of the ABS amplifier was 36.03 &plusmn; 1.34 &#181;&epsilon;/&#181;m, and the sensitivity of the nylon amplifier was 36.55 &plusmn; 0.53 &#181;&epsilon;/&#181;m.

This work presents a strain measurement sensor consisting of an amplification mechanism and a polydimethylsiloxane microscope manufactured using an improved 3D printer.

A traditional strain measurement sensor needs to be electrified and is susceptible to electromagnetic interference. In order to solve the fluctuations in ...

Twin-Screw Extrusion Process to Produce Renewable Fiberboards

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pre-treatment on lignocellulosic biomass before using it as source of mechanical reinforcement in fully bio-based fiberboards was developed. Various lignocellulosic crop by-products have already been successfully pre-treated through this process, e.g., cereal straws (especially rice), coriander straw, shives from oleaginous flax straw, and bark of both amaranth and sunflower stems.
The extrusion process results in a marked increase in the average fiber aspect ratio, leading to improved mechanical properties of fiberboards. The twin-screw extruder can also be fitted with a filtration module at the end of the barrel. The continuous extraction of various chemicals (e.g., free sugars, hemicelluloses, volatiles from essential oil fractions, etc.) from the lignocellulosic substrate, and the fiber refining can, therefore, be performed simultaneously.
The extruder can also be used for its mixing ability: a natural binder (e.g., Organosolv lignins, protein-based oilcakes, starch, etc.) can be added to the refined fibers at the end of the screw profile. The obtained premix is ready to be molded through hot pressing, with the natural binder contributing to fiberboard cohesion. Such a combined process in a single extruder pass improves the production time, production cost, and may lead to reduction in plant production size. Because all the operations are performed in a single step, fiber morphology is better preserved, thanks to a reduced residence time of the material inside the extruder, resulting in enhanced material performances. Such one-step extrusion operation may be at the origin of a valuable industrial process intensification.
Compared to commercial wood-based materials, these fully bio-based fiberboards do not emit any formaldehyde, and they could find various applications, e.g., intermediate containers, furniture, domestic flooring, shelving, general construction, etc.

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pretreatment on lignocellulosic biomass was developed, which leads to an increased average fiber aspect ratio. A natural binder can also be added continuously after fiber refining, leading to bio-based fiberboards with improved mechanical properties after hot pressing of the obtained extruded material.

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pre-treatment on lignocellulosic biomass before using it as ...

Glass-Based Devices to Generate Drops and Emulsions

In this manuscript, three different step-by-step protocols to generate highly monodisperse emulsion drops using glass-based microfluidics are described. The first device is built for the generation of simple drops driven by gravity. The second device is designed to generate emulsion drops in a coflowing scheme. The third device is an extension of the coflowing device with the addition of a third liquid that acts as an electric ground, allowing the formation of electrified drops that subsequently discharge. In this setup, two of the three liquids have an appreciable electrical conductivity. The third liquid mediates between these two and is a dielectric. A&#160;voltage difference applied between the two conducting liquids creates an electric field that couples with hydrodynamic stresses of the coflowing liquids, affecting the jet and drop formation process. The addition of the electric field provides a path to generate smaller drops than in simple coflow devices and for generating particles and fibers with a wide range of sizes.

Here, a protocol to manufacture glass-based microfluidic devices used for generating highly monodisperse emulsions with controlled drop size is presented.

In this manuscript, three different step-by-step protocols to generate highly monodisperse emulsion drops using glass-based microfluidics are described. ...

Fabrication and Mechanical Property Assessment of Fiber Composite Laminates

Measuring the Mechanical Properties of Glass Fiber Reinforcement Polymer Composite Laminates Obtained by Different Fabrication Processes

The traditional wet hand lay-up process (WL) has been widely applied in the manufacturing of fiber composite laminates. However, due insufficiency in the forming pressure, the mass fraction of fiber is reduced and lots of air bubbles are trapped inside, resulting in low-quality laminates (low stiffness and strength). The wet hand lay-up/vacuum bag (WLVB) process for the fabrication of composite laminates is based on the traditional wet hand lay-up process, using a vacuum bag to remove air bubbles and provide pressure, and then carrying out the heating and curing process. 
Compared with the traditional hand lay-up process, laminates manufactured by the WLVB process show superior mechanical properties, including better strength and stiffness, higher fiber volume fraction, and lower void volume fraction, which are all benefits for composite laminates. This process is completely manual, and it is greatly influenced by the skills of the preparation personnel. Therefore, the products are prone to defects such as voids and uneven thickness, leading to unstable qualities and mechanical properties of the laminate. Hence, it is necessary to finely describe the WLVB process, finely control steps, and quantify material ratios, in order to ensure the mechanical properties of laminates. 
This paper describes the meticulous process of the WLVB process for preparing woven plain patterned glass fiber reinforcement composite laminates (GFRPs). The fiber volume content of laminates was calculated using the formula method, and the calculated results showed that the fiber volume content of WL laminates was 42.04%, while that of WLVB laminates was 57.82%, increasing by 15.78%. The mechanical properties of the laminates were characterized using tensile and impact tests. The experimental results revealed that with the WLVB process, the strength and modulus of the laminates were enhanced by 17.4% and 16.35%, respectively, and the specific absorbed energy was increased by 19.48%.

Author Spotlight: Enhancing Fiber Composite Laminate Quality with the Wet Hand Lay-Up/Vacuum Bag Process 

This paper describes a fabrication process for fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite laminates obtained using the wet hand lay-up/vacuum bag method.

The traditional wet hand lay-up process (WL) has been widely applied in the manufacturing of fiber composite laminates. However, due insufficiency in the ...