This work was supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR N00014-15-1-0020)[Tkacik and Keanini] and performed at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte&#39;s Motorsports Research Lab. Polishing media was donated by Rosler.

<ol>
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M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Decay+of+time+correlations+in+two+dimensions.">Decay of time correlations in two dimensions.</a> Phys. Rev. A. 4, 233-236 (1971).</li><li>Evans, D. J., Morriss, G. P. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Statistical Mechanics of Nonequilibrium Liquids. , (2007).</li><li>Levesque, D., Verlet, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Computer+"experiments"+on+classical+fluids,+III.+time-dependent+self+correlation+functions.">Computer "experiments" on classical fluids, III. time-dependent self correlation functions.</a> Phys. Rev. A. 2, 2514-2528 (1970).</li><li>Levesque, D., Ashurst, W. 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The authors have nothing to disclose.

In order to use vibrated grain piles as macroscopic analogs for investigating molecular hydrodynamic processes, an experimentalist must, on one hand, learn and use four basic measurements, and on the other, master a few basic elements of equilibrium and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. Focusing first on experimental measurements, these include: i) measurement of individual grain dynamics through measurement of the single-particle velocity autocorrelation function, ii) measurement of time-average/long-time-scale sur...

Molecular hydrodynamics studies the dynamics and statistical mechanics of individual molecules and collections of molecules within fluids. Among the many experimental techniques developed for studying molecular hydrodynamic systems1,2, light scattering1,2,3, molecular dynamic simulations4,5,6,7 and, to a lesser extent, inelastic neutron scattering8 have been most commonly used. Unfortunately, significant limitations attach to the latter two techniques. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, for example: i) are limited to small spatial and temporal <img alt="Equation 1" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq1.jpg" /> domains containing relatively few molecules <img alt="Equation 2" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq2.jpg" />, ii) require use of approximate inter-particle potentials, iii) typically introduce periodic boundary conditions, invalid under non-equilibrium bulk flow conditions, and iv) cannot, at present, answer the fundamental question of how molecular-scale dynamics, involving either single molecules or collections of molecules, are affected by, and couple back to, bulk, non-equilibrium fluid flow. The main limitation associated with neutron scattering is tied to the difficulty of accessing the limited number of neutron beam sources available.
In order to provide context for the analog experimental technique presented in this article, we highlight light scattering techniques applied to simple dense-gas and liquid-state fluids. In a typical light scattering experiment, a polarized laser light beam is directed to a small interrogation volume containing a stationary fluid sample. Light scattered from molecules within the sample is then detected at some fixed angle relative to the incident beam. Depending on the molecular dynamic regime of interest, detection and analysis of the scattered light signal incorporates either light filtering or light mixing detection methods. As outlined by Berne and Pecora1, filtering techniques, which probe fluid state molecular dynamics on time scales shorter than <img alt="Equation 3" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq3.jpg" /> s, introduce a post-scattering interferometer or diffraction grating, and allow scanning of the spectral density of the scattered light. Optical mixing techniques, used for slow-time-scale dynamics, <img alt="Equation 4" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq4.jpg" /> s, by contrast, incorporate a post-scattering autocorrelator or spectrum analyzer, in which the spectral content of the scattered signal is extracted from the measured scattered light intensity.
Generally, laser probes, at least those operating in the visible range of the spectrum, have wavelengths much longer than the characteristic spacing between liquid-state molecules. Under these circumstances, the probe beam excites five collective, slow-time-scale, long-wave-length hydrodynamic modes2,9,10 (slow relative to the characteristic collision frequency): two viscously damped, counter-propagating sound waves, two uncoupled, purely diffusive vorticity modes, and a single diffusive thermal (entropy) mode. The sound modes are excited in the (longitudinal) direction of the incident beam, while the vortical modes are excited in the transverse direction.
Considering purely experimental scattering techniques, two fundamental questions, lying at the heart of the equilibrium and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics of molecular, liquid-state systems, remain beyond light and neutron scattering measurements: 
1) Rigorous arguments9,11 show that the random, collision- and sub-collision-time-scale dynamics of individual liquid-state molecules, subject to either classical Newtonian dynamics or quantum dynamics, can be recast in the form of generalized Langevin equations (GLE). GLE&#39;s, in turn, comprise a central theoretical tool in the study of the non-equilibrium statistical mechanics of molecules in dense gases and liquids. Unfortunately, since the dynamics of individual (non-macromolecular) molecules cannot be resolved by either scattering technique, there is presently no direct way, beyond MD simulations, to test the validity of GLE&#39;s. 
2) A fundamental hypothesis lying at the heart of macroscopic continuum fluid dynamics, as well microscale molecular hydrodynamics, posits that on length- and time-scales large relative to molecular diameters and collision times, but small relative to continuum length- and time-scales, local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) prevails. In continuum flow and heat transfer models, like the Navier-Stokes (NS) equations, the LTE assumption is required9 in order to couple intrinsically non-equilibrium, continuum-scale flow and energy transport features &#8212; like viscous shear stresses and thermal conduction &#8212; to strictly equilibrium thermodynamic properties, like temperature and internal energy. Likewise, while microscale momentum and energy transport are intrinsically non-equilibrium processes, reflecting the appearance of coupled, microscale mass, momentum, and energy currents, models of these microscale processes assume that the currents represent small perturbations from LTE9. Again, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no direct experimental tests of the LTE assumption. In particular, it appears that no molecular hydrodynamic scattering experiments have been attempted within dense, moving, non-equilibrium fluid flows.
In this paper, we outline an analog experimental technique in which the macroscopic, single particle and collective particle dynamics of vibrated grain piles, measured using standard Particle Imaging Velocimetry (PIV), can be used to indirectly predict, interpret, and expose single- and multi-molecule hydrodynamics in dense gases and liquids. The physical and theoretical elements that enable the proposed technique are stated in a recent paper published by our group12. Experimentally, the macroscopic system must exhibit: (i) a sustained tendency toward local, macroscale statistical mechanical equilibrium, and (ii) small, linear departures from equilibrium that mimic (weak) non-equilibrium fluctuations observed in molecular hydrodynamic systems. Theoretically: (i) classical microscale models describing the equilibrium and weakly-non-equilibrium statistical mechanics of dense, interacting N-particle systems must be recast in macroscale form, and (ii) the resulting macroscale models must reliably predict single- and multiple-particle dynamics, from short, particle-collision-time-scales to long, continuum-flow-time-scales.
Here, we present a detailed experimental protocol as well as representative results obtained by the new technique. In contrast to MD simulations and light and neutron scattering methods, the new technique allows, for the first time, detailed study of molecular hydrodynamic processes within flowing, strongly non-equilibrium, dense gases and liquids.

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Vibratory Polishing Bowl</td>
			<td>Raytech</td>
			<td>AV-75</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Flow Meter</td>
			<td>Peristaltic Pumps</td>
			<td>913 Mity Flex</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Scale</td>
			<td>Pelouze</td>
			<td>4040</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Triaxial Accelerometer</td>
			<td>PCB Piezotronics</td>
			<td>PCB 356B11</td>
			<td>Accelerometer with Sensor Signal Conditioner</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Acquisition Computer</td>
			<td>IBM</td>
			<td>Thinkpad</td>
			<td>Used with high speed camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>High Speed Camera</td>
			<td>Redlake</td>
			<td>Motionxtra HG-XR</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Zoom Lens</td>
			<td>Tamron</td>
			<td>Model A18</td>
			<td>18-250mm F/3.5-6.3&#160;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>High intensity Light</td>
			<td>ARRI</td>
			<td>EB 400/575 D</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Processing Computer</td>
			<td>Dell</td>
			<td>Dell Precision Tower 7910</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>PIV Software&#160;</td>
			<td>Dantec Dynamics</td>
			<td>Dynamic Studio 2013</td>
			<td>version 3.41.38</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Acquisition Hardware</td>
			<td>National Instruments</td>
			<td>SCXI</td>
			<td>SCXI-1000 Chasis with SCXI 1100 Card and SCXI 1303 Adapter</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Acquisition Software</td>
			<td>National Instruments</td>
			<td>LabVIEW 2012</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Processing Software</td>
			<td>MATHWORKS</td>
			<td>MATLAB</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Polishing Media</td>
			<td>Rosler</td>
			<td>RSG 10/10S</td>
			<td>Multiple media types used (mixed, spherical, triangular)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Polishing Solution</td>
			<td>Rosler</td>
			<td>FC KFL (3%)</td>
			<td>3% soap solution with water</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ruled Scale</td>
			<td>Swiss Precision Instruments</td>
			<td>13-911-3</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Graduated Cylinder</td>
			<td>Global Scientific</td>
			<td>601082</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

an analog macroscopic technique for studying molecular hydrodynamic processes in dense gases and liquids

An analog, macroscopic method for studying molecular-scale hydrodynamic processes in dense gases and liquids is described. The technique applies a standard fluid dynamic diagnostic, particle image velocimetry (PIV), to measure: i) velocities of individual particles (grains), extant on short, grain-collision time-scales, ii) velocities of systems of particles, on both short collision-time- and long, continuum-flow-time-scales, iii) collective hydrodynamic modes known to exist in dense molecular fluids, and iv) short- and long-time-scale velocity autocorrelation functions, central to understanding particle-scale dynamics in strongly interacting, dense fluid systems. The basic system is composed of an imaging system, light source, vibrational sensors, vibrational system with a known media, and PIV and analysis software. Required experimental measurements and an outline of the theoretical tools needed when using the analog technique to study molecular-scale hydrodynamic processes are highlighted. The proposed technique provides a relatively straightforward alternative to photonic and neutron beam scattering methods traditionally used in molecular hydrodynamic studies.

In presenting representative results, we refer to continuum-time-scale processes as those observed and predicted over time-scales, <img alt="Equation 25" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq25.jpg" /> that are long relative to the characteristic grain collision time scale, <img alt="Equation 26" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq26.jpg" /> <img alt="Equation 27" src="/files/ftp_upload/56632/56632eq27.jpg" /> and particle-time-scale processes as those observed and predi...

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An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

An experimentally accessible analog method for studying molecular hydrodynamic processes in dense fluids is presented. The technique uses particle image velocimetry of vibrated, high-restitution grain piles and allows direct, macroscopic observation of dynamical processes known and predicted to exist in strongly interacting, high density gases and liquids.

An analog, macroscopic method for studying molecular-scale hydrodynamic processes in dense gases and liquids is described. The technique applies a ...

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8.4K Views.  University of North Carolina at Charlotte. An experimentally accessible analog method for studying molecular hydrodynamic processes in dense fluids is presented. The technique uses particle image velocimetry of vibrated, high-restitution grain piles and allows direct, macroscopic observation of dynamical processes known and predicted to exist in strongly interacting, high density gases and liquids.

Video: An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids

Revealing Dynamic Processes of Materials in Liquids Using Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy

The recent development for in situ transmission electron microscopy, which allows imaging through liquids with high spatial resolution, has attracted significant interests across the research fields of materials science, physics, chemistry and biology. The key enabling technology is a liquid cell. We fabricate liquid cells with thin viewing windows through a sequential microfabrication process, including silicon nitride membrane deposition, photolithographic patterning, wafer etching, cell bonding, etc. A liquid cell with the dimensions of a regular TEM grid can fit in any standard TEM sample holder. About 100 nanoliters reaction solution is loaded into the reservoirs and about 30 picoliters liquid is drawn into the viewing windows by capillary force. Subsequently, the cell is sealed and loaded into a microscope for in situ imaging. Inside the TEM, the electron beam goes through the thin liquid layer sandwiched between two silicon nitride membranes. Dynamic processes of nanoparticles in liquids, such as nucleation and growth of nanocrystals, diffusion and assembly of nanoparticles, etc., have been imaged in real time with sub-nanometer resolution. We have also applied this method to other research areas, e.g., imaging proteins in water. Liquid cell TEM is poised to play a major role in revealing dynamic processes of materials in their working environments. It may also bring high impact in the study of biological processes in their native environment.

We have developed a self-contained liquid cell, which allows imaging through liquids using a transmission electron microscope. Dynamic processes of nanoparticles in liquids can be revealed in real time with sub-nanometer resolution.

The recent development for in situ transmission electron microscopy, which allows imaging through liquids with high spatial resolution, has attracted ...

Simulation of the Planetary Interior Differentiation Processes in the Laboratory

A planetary interior is under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions and it has a layered structure. There are two important processes that led to that layered structure, (1) percolation of liquid metal in a solid silicate matrix by planet differentiation, and (2) inner core crystallization by subsequent planet cooling. We conduct high-pressure and high-temperature experiments to simulate both processes in the laboratory. Formation of percolative planetary core depends on the efficiency of melt percolation, which is controlled by the dihedral (wetting) angle. The percolation simulation includes heating the sample at high pressure to a target temperature at which iron-sulfur alloy is molten while the silicate remains solid, and then determining the true dihedral angle to evaluate the style of liquid migration in a crystalline matrix by 3D visualization. The 3D volume rendering is achieved by slicing the recovered sample with a focused ion beam (FIB) and taking SEM image of each slice with a FIB/SEM crossbeam instrument. The second set of experiments is designed to understand the inner core crystallization and element distribution between the liquid outer core and solid inner core by determining the melting temperature and element partitioning at high pressure. The melting experiments are conducted in the multi-anvil apparatus up to 27 GPa and extended to higher pressure in the diamond-anvil cell with laser-heating. We have developed techniques to recover small heated samples by precision FIB milling and obtain high-resolution images of the laser-heated spot that show melting texture at high pressure. By analyzing the chemical compositions of the coexisting liquid and solid phases, we precisely determine the liquidus curve, providing necessary data to understand the inner core crystallization process.

The high-pressure and high-temperature experiments described here mimic planet interior differentiation processes. The processes are visualized and better understood by high-resolution 3D imaging and quantitative chemical analysis.

A planetary interior is under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions and it has a layered structure. There are two important processes that led to ...

Spatial Separation of Molecular Conformers and Clusters

Gas-phase molecular physics and physical chemistry experiments commonly use supersonic expansions through pulsed valves for the production of cold molecular beams. However, these beams often contain multiple conformers and clusters, even at low rotational temperatures. We present an experimental methodology that allows the spatial separation of these constituent parts of a molecular beam expansion. Using an electric deflector the beam is separated by its mass-to-dipole moment ratio, analogous to a bender or an electric sector mass spectrometer spatially dispersing charged molecules on the basis of their mass-to-charge ratio. This deflector exploits the Stark effect in an inhomogeneous electric field and allows the separation of individual species of polar neutral molecules and clusters. It furthermore allows the selection of the coldest part of a molecular beam, as low-energy rotational quantum states generally experience the largest deflection. Different structural isomers (conformers) of a species can be separated due to the different arrangement of functional groups, which leads to distinct dipole moments. These are exploited by the electrostatic deflector for the production of a conformationally pure sample from a molecular beam. Similarly, specific cluster stoichiometries can be selected, as the mass and dipole moment of a given cluster depends on the degree of solvation around the parent molecule. This allows experiments on specific cluster sizes and structures, enabling the systematic study of solvation of neutral molecules.

We present a technique that allows the spatial separation of different conformers or clusters present in a molecular beam. An electrostatic deflector is used to separate species by their mass-to-dipole moment ratio, leading to the production of gas-phase ensembles of a single conformer or cluster stoichiometry.

Gas-phase molecular physics and physical chemistry experiments commonly use supersonic expansions through pulsed valves for the production of cold ...

The Preparation of Electrohydrodynamic Bridges from Polar Dielectric Liquids

Horizontal and vertical liquid bridges are simple and powerful tools for exploring the interaction of high intensity electric fields (8-20 kV/cm) and polar dielectric liquids. These bridges are unique from capillary bridges in that they exhibit extensibility beyond a few millimeters, have complex bi-directional mass transfer patterns, and emit non-Planck infrared radiation. A number of common solvents can form such bridges as well as low conductivity solutions and colloidal suspensions. The macroscopic behavior is governed by electrohydrodynamics and provides a means of studying fluid flow phenomena without the presence of rigid walls. Prior to the onset of a liquid bridge several important phenomena can be observed including advancing meniscus height (electrowetting), bulk fluid circulation (the Sumoto effect), and the ejection of charged droplets (electrospray). The interaction between surface, polarization, and displacement forces can be directly examined by varying applied voltage and bridge length. The electric field, assisted by gravity, stabilizes the liquid bridge against Rayleigh-Plateau instabilities. Construction of basic apparatus for both vertical and horizontal orientation along with operational examples, including thermographic images, for three liquids (e.g., water, DMSO, and glycerol) is presented.

Horizontal and vertical electrohydrodynamic liquid bridges are simple and powerful tools for exploring the interaction of high intensity electric fields and polar dielectric liquids. The construction of basic apparatus and operational examples, including thermographic images, for three liquids (e.g., water, DMSO, and glycerol) is presented.

Horizontal and vertical liquid bridges are simple and powerful tools for exploring the interaction of high intensity electric fields (8-20 kV/cm) and ...

Formation of Thick Dense Yttrium Iron Garnet Films Using Aerosol Deposition

Aerosol deposition (AD) is a thick-film deposition process that can produce layers up to several hundred micrometers thick with densities greater than 95% of the bulk. The primary advantage of AD is that the deposition takes place entirely at ambient temperature; thereby enabling film growth in material systems with disparate melting temperatures. This report describes in detail the processing steps for preparing the powder and for performing AD using the custom-built system. Representative characterization results are presented from scanning electron microscopy, profilometry, and ferromagnetic resonance for films grown in this system. As a representative overview of the capabilities of the system, focus is given to a sample produced following the described protocol and system setup. Results indicate that this system can successfully deposit 11 &#181;m thick yttrium iron garnet films that are &#160;&#62; 90% of the bulk density during a single 5 min deposition run. A discussion of methods to afford better control of the aerosol and particle selection for improved thickness and roughness variations in the film is provided.

This report describes the use of a custom-built system to perform aerosol deposition of thick films of yttrium iron garnet onto sapphire substrates at RT. The deposited films are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, profilometry, and ferromagnetic resonance to give a representative overview of the capabilities of the technique.

Aerosol deposition (AD) is a thick-film deposition process that can produce layers up to several hundred micrometers thick with densities greater than 95% ...

Experimental Methods for Investigation of Shape Memory Based Elastocaloric Cooling Processes and Model Validation

Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) using elastocaloric cooling processes have the potential to be an environmentally friendly alternative to the conventional vapor compression based cooling process. Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) based alloy systems, especially, show large elastocaloric effects. Furthermore, exhibit large latent heats which is a necessary material property for the development of an efficient solid-state based cooling process. A scientific test rig has been designed to investigate these processes and the elastocaloric effects in SMAs. The realized test rig enables independent control of an SMA&#39;s mechanical loading and unloading cycles, as well as conductive heat transfer between SMA cooling elements and a heat source/sink. The test rig is equipped with a comprehensive monitoring system capable of synchronized measurements of mechanical and thermal parameters. In addition to determining the process-dependent mechanical work, the system also enables measurement of thermal caloric aspects of the elastocaloric cooling effect through use of a high-performance infrared camera. This combination is of particular interest, because it allows illustrations of localization and rate effects &#8212; both important for efficient heat transfer from the medium to be cooled.
The work presented describes an experimental method to identify elastocaloric material properties in different materials and sample geometries. Furthermore, the test rig is used to investigate different cooling process variations. The introduced analysis methods enable a differentiated consideration of material, process and related boundary condition influences on the process efficiency. The comparison of the experimental data with the simulation results (of a thermomechanically coupled finite element model) allows for better understanding of the underlying physics of the elastocaloric effect. In addition, the experimental results, as well as the findings based on the simulation results, are used to improve the material properties.

Experimental methods for investigation of solid state cooling processes and characterization of elastocaloric material properties of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) are presented. A custom-built test rig has been designed for controlling and comprehensive monitoring of elastocaloric cooling processes. Furthermore, it provides a validation platform for thermomechanically coupled modeling approaches.

Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) using elastocaloric cooling processes have the potential to be an environmentally friendly alternative to the conventional vapor ...

Studying Dynamic Processes of Nano-sized Objects in Liquid using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy

Samples fully embedded in liquid can be studied at a nanoscale spatial resolution with Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) using a microfluidic chamber assembled in the specimen holder for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and STEM. The microfluidic system consists of two silicon microchips supporting thin Silicon Nitride (SiN) membrane windows. This article describes the basic steps of sample loading and data acquisition. Most important of all is to ensure that the liquid compartment is correctly assembled, thus providing a thin liquid layer and a vacuum seal. This protocol also includes a number of tests necessary to perform during sample loading in order to ensure correct assembly. Once the sample is loaded in the electron microscope, the liquid thickness needs to be measured. Incorrect assembly may result in a too-thick liquid, while a too-thin liquid may indicate the absence of liquid, such as when a bubble is formed. Finally, the protocol explains how images are taken and how dynamic processes can be studied. A sample containing AuNPs is imaged both in pure water and in saline.

This protocol describes the operation of a liquid flow specimen holder for scanning transmission electron microscopy of AuNPs in water, as used for the observation of nanoscale dynamic processes.

Samples fully embedded in liquid can be studied at a nanoscale spatial resolution with Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) using a ...

Wicking Tests for Unidirectional Fabrics: Measurements of Capillary Parameters to Evaluate Capillary Pressure in Liquid Composite Molding Processes

During impregnation of a fibrous reinforcement in liquid composite molding (LCM) processes, capillary effects have to be understood in order to identify their influence on void formation in composite parts. Wicking in a fibrous medium described by the Washburn equation was considered equivalent to a flow under the effect of capillary pressure according to the Darcy law. Experimental tests for the characterization of wicking were conducted with both carbon and flax fiber reinforcement. Quasi-unidirectional fabrics were then tested by means of a tensiometer to determine the morphological and wetting parameters along the fiber direction. The procedure was shown to be promising when the morphology of the fabric is unchanged during capillary wicking. In the case of carbon fabrics, the capillary pressure can be calculated. Flax fibers are sensitive to moisture sorption and swell in water. This phenomenon has to be taken into account to assess the wetting parameters. In order to make fibers less sensitive to water sorption, a thermal treatment was carried out on flax reinforcements. This treatment enhances fiber morphological stability and prevents swelling in water. It was shown that treated fabrics have a linear wicking trend similar to those found in carbon fabrics, allowing for the determination of capillary pressure.

An experimental method to measure geometrical parameters and the apparent advancing contact angles describing capillary wicking in unidirectional synthetic and natural fabrics is proposed. These parameters are mandatory for the determination of the capillary pressures that must be taken into account for liquid composite molding (LCM) applications.

During impregnation of a fibrous reinforcement in liquid composite molding (LCM) processes, capillary effects have to be understood in order to identify ...

Preparation of Liquid Crystal Networks for Macroscopic Oscillatory Motion Induced by Light

A strategy based on doped liquid crystalline networks is described to create mechanical self-sustained oscillations of plastic films under continuous light irradiation. The photo-excitation of dopants that can quickly dissipate light into heat, coupled with anisotropic thermal expansion and self-shadowing of the film, gives rise to the self-sustained deformation. The oscillations observed are influenced by the dimensions and the modulus of the film, and by the directionality and intensity of the light. The system developed offers applications in energy conversion and harvesting for soft-robotics and automated systems.
The general method described here consists of creating free-standing liquid crystalline films and characterizing the mechanical and thermal effects observed. The molecular alignment is achieved using alignment layers (rubbed polyimide), commonly used in the display manufacturing industry. To obtain actuators with large deformation, the mesogens are aligned and polymerized in a splay/bend configuration, i.e., with the director of the liquid crystals (LCs) going gradually from planar to homeotropic through the film thickness. Upon irradiation, the mechanical and thermal oscillations obtained are monitored with a high-speed camera. The results are further quantified by image analysis using an image processing program.

The goal of the protocol is to create liquid crystalline polymer films that can mechanically oscillate under continuous light irradiation. We describe in great detail the conception of free-standing films, from the liquid crystal alignment method to the photo-actuation. The experimental protocol applied to prepare this material is broadly applicable.

A strategy based on doped liquid crystalline networks is described to create mechanical self-sustained oscillations of plastic films under continuous ...

An Available Technique for Preparation of New Cast MnCuNiFeZnAl Alloy with Superior Damping Capacity and High Service Temperature

Manganese (Mn)-copper (Cu)-based alloys have been found to have&#160;damping capacity and can be used to reduce harmful vibrations and noise effectively. M2052 (Mn-20Cu-5Ni-2Fe, at%) is an important branch of Mn-Cu-based alloys, which possesses both excellent damping capacity and processability. In recent decades, lots of studies have been carried out on the performance optimization of M2052, improving the damping capacity, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and service temperature, etc. The major methods of performance optimization are alloying, heat treatment, pretreatment, and different ways of molding etc., among which alloying, as well as adopting a reasonable heat treatment, is the simplest and most effective method to obtain perfect and comprehensive performance. To obtain the M2052 alloy with excellent performance for casting molding, we propose to add Zn and Al to the MnCuNiFe alloy matrix and use a variety of heat treatment methods for a comparison in the microstructure, damping capacity, and service temperature. Thus, a new type of cast-aged Mn-22.68Cu-1.89Ni-1.99Fe-1.70Zn-6.16Al (at.%) alloy with&#160;superior damping capacity and high service temperature is obtained by an optimized heat treatment method. Compared with the forging technique, cast molding is simpler and more efficient, and the damping capacity of this as-cast alloy is excellent. Therefore, there is a suitable reason to think that it is a good choice for engineering applications.

Here we present a protocol to obtain a novel Mn-Cu-based alloy with excellent comprehensive performances by a high-quality smelting technology and reasonable heat treatment methods.

Manganese (Mn)-copper (Cu)-based alloys have been found to have&#160;damping capacity and can be used to reduce harmful vibrations and noise effectively. ...