Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “MONOCRYSTALS”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 289 records · Page 16
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2017

Inorganic anion-dependent assembly of zero-, one-, two- and three-dimensional Cu(II)/Ag(I) complexes under the guidance of the HSAB theory: Synthesis, structure, and magnetic property

To systematically explore the influence of inorganic anions on building coordination complexes, five novel complexes based on 1-(benzotriazole-1-methyl)−2-propylimidazole (bpmi), [Cu(bpmi){sub 2}(Ac){sub 2}]·H{sub 2}O (1), [Cu(bpmi){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}]·2NO{sub 3}·2H{sub 2}O (2), [Cu(bpmi)(N{sub 3}){sub 2}] (3), [Ag(bpmi)(NO{sub 3})] (4) and [Cu{sub 3}(bpmi){sub 2}(SCN){sub 4}(DMF)] (5) (Ac{sup −}=CH{sub 3}COO{sup −}, DMF=N,N-Dimethylformamide) are synthesized through rationally introducing Cu(II) salts and Ag(I) salt with different inorganic anions. X-ray single-crystal analyses reveal that these complexes show interesting structural features from mononuclear (1), one-dimensional (2 and 3), two-dimensional (4) to three-dimensional (5) under the influence of inorganic anions with different basicities. The structural variation can be explained by the hard-soft-acid-base (HSAB) theory. Magnetic susceptibility measurement indicates that complex 3 exhibits an antiferromagnetic coupling between adjacent Cu(II) ions. - Graphical abstract: Five new Cu(II)/Ag(I) complexes show interesting structural features from mononuclear, one-dimension, two-dimension to three-dimension under the influence of inorganic anions. The structural variation can be explained by the HSAB theory. - Highlights: • Five inorganic anion-dependent complexes are synthesized. • Structural variation can be explained by the hard-soft-acid-base (HSAB) theory. • The magnetic property of complex has been studied.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

The assembly of two isomorphous coordination compounds based on 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid and 2,4-diamino-6-phenyl-1,3,5-triazine

The compounds [Co(e,a-cis-1,4-chdc)(phdat)]{sub n} (1) and [Cd(e,a-cis-1,4-chdc)(phdat)]{sub n} (2) have been synthesized under hydrothermal method by using 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid (1,4-H{sub 2}chdc), 2,4-diamino-6-phenyl-1,3,5-triazine (phdat) as well as CoCl{sub 2}·6H{sub 2}O, CdCl{sub 2}·2.5H{sub 2}O respectively and characterized by IR spectra, X-ray single-crystal diffraction, powder X-ray single-crystal diffraction (PXRD), elemental analyses and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). The results show the compounds 1 and 2 are isomorphous and exhibit paddle-wheel dinuclear Co{sub 2}(CO{sub 2}){sub 4}/Cd{sub 2}(CO{sub 2}){sub 4} units, which are further connected to 1D chain structures by μ{sub 4}:η{sup 1}:η{sup 1}:η{sup 1}:η{sup 1} 1,4-chdc{sup 2–} ligands and extended into a 3D structures via different hydrogen bonding and π…π stacking interactions. Furthermore, compound 1 exhibits antiferromagnetic behavior and compound 2 displays luminescent behavior at solid state. - Graphical abstract: Two isomorphous coordination compounds 1–2 have been synthesized and characterized by XRD, IR spectra and TGA etc. Compound 1 and 2 display antiferromagnetic behavior and luminescent behavior respectively. - Highlights: • Two novel polymers based on 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid have been synthesized. • Compounds 1 and 2 feather 1D chain structure built up from paddle-wheel SBUs. • The magnetism of 2 is investigated. • The electrochemical property and luminescent property of 1 are investigated.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Structural study of quasi-one-dimensional vanadium pyroxene LiVSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} single crystals

Single crystals of quasi-one-dimensional vanadium pyroxene LiVSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} were synthesized and the crystal structures at 293 K and 113 K were studied using X-ray diffraction experiments. We found a structural phase transition from the room-temperature crystal structure with space group C2/c to a low-temperature structure with space group P2{sub 1}/c, resulting from a rotational displacement of SiO{sub 4} tetrahedra. The temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibility shows a broad maximum around 116 K, suggesting an opening of the Haldane gap expected for one-dimensional antiferromagnets with S=1. However, an antiferromagnetic long-range order was developed below 24 K, probably caused by a weak inter-chain magnetic coupling in the compound. - Graphical abstract: Low temperature crystal structure of LiVSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} and an orbital arrangement within the V-O zig-zag chain along the c-axis. - Highlights: • A low temperature structure of LiVSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction measurements. • The origin of the structural transition is a rotational displacement of SiO{sub 4} tetrahedra. • The uniform orbital overlap in the V-O zigzag chain makes the system a quasi one-dimensional antiferromagnet.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Ag-ligand modified tungstovandates and their efficient catalysis degradation properties for methylene blue

Two polytungstovandates [Ag(mbpy){sub 2}][Ag{sub 2}(mbpy){sub 3}][VW{sub 5}O{sub 19}]·H{sub 2}O (1) and [Ag(mbpy)]{sub 2}[Ag(mbpy){sub 2}]{sub 4}[VW{sub 12}O{sub 40}] (2) (mbpy =4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridyl), had been hydrothermally synthesized and characterized by IR, TG, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. Single-crystal structural analysis revealed that the polyanionic clusters in two compounds are different: Lindqvist-type in 1 and α-Keggin-type in 2, respectively, while the cationic moieties in them are Ag-mbpy units. The experiments showed that this kind of hybrid crystal materials possesses more efficiently catalytic performance for the degradation of organic dye methylene blue (MB) in water solution under the UV irradiation. The significant degradation rate of MB can reach 89.9%, 94.9% by crystals 1 and 2 (40 mg) in the course of about 5 min. - Graphical abstract: Two Ag-ligand modified polytungstovandates had been synthesized and characterized, which were active in the catalytic degradation of organic dye methylene blue under the UV irradiation. - Highlights: • Two Ag-ligand modified tungstovandates were synthesized and characterized. • Weak interactions play important roles in constructing crystal frameworks. • Compounds are active to catalyze the degradation of methylene blue.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Dehydration-driven evolution of topological complexity in ethylamonium uranyl selenates

Single crystals of four novel uranyl selenate and selenite-selenate oxysalts with protonated ethylamine molecules, (C{sub 2}H{sub 8}N){sub 2}[(UO{sub 2})(SeO{sub 4}){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O)](H{sub 2}O) (I), (C{sub 2}H{sub 8}N){sub 3}[(UO{sub 2})(SeO{sub 4}){sub 2}(HSeO{sub 4})] (II), (C{sub 2}H{sub 8}N)[(UO{sub 2})(SeO{sub 4})(HSeO{sub 3})] (III), and (C{sub 2}H{sub 8}N)(H{sub 3}O)[(UO{sub 2})(SeO{sub 4}){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O)] (IV) have been prepared by isothermal evaporation from aqueous solutions. Uranyl-containing 1D and 2D units have been investigated using topological approach and information-based complexity measurements that demonstrate the evolution of structural units and the increase of topological complexity with the decrease of H{sub 2}O content. - Graphical abstract: Single crystals of four novel uranyl selenate and selenite-selenate oxysalts with protonated ethylamine molecules have been prepared by isothermal evaporation from aqueous solutions. Structural analysis and information-based topological complexity calculations points to the possible sequence of crystalline phases formation, showing both topological and structural branches of evolution. - Highlights: • Single crystals of four novel uranyl oxysalts were prepared by evaporation method. • The graph theory was used for investigation of topologies of structural units. • Dehydration processes drives the evolution of topological complexity of 1D and 2D structural units.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

A series of silver(I) coordination polymers with saccarinate and flexible aliphatic diamines

A series of Ag(I) complexes with aliphatic diamines having a different chain length (NH{sub 2}-(CH{sub 2}){sub n}-NH{sub 2}, n=4–9), with the formulas, [Ag(μ-sac)(μ-db){sub 0.5}]{sub n} (1), ([Ag{sub 4}(sac){sub 4}(μ-dp){sub 2}]·4H{sub 2}O){sub n} (2){sub ,} ([Ag{sub 2}(sac){sub 2}(μ-dz)]·2H{sub 2}O){sub n} (3), ([Ag{sub 2}(sac){sub 2}(μ-dh)]·H{sub 2}O){sub n} (4), ([Ag{sub 2}(sac){sub 2}(μ-do)]·H{sub 2}O){sub n} (5a), [Ag{sub 2}(sac){sub 2}(μ-do){sub 2}] (5b) and [Ag{sub 4}(sac){sub 4}(μ-dn){sub 2}]·2H{sub 2}O (6), where sac=saccharinate, db=1,4-diaminobutane, dp=1,5-diaminopentane, dz=1,6-diaminohexane, dh=1,7-diaminoheptane, do=1,8-diaminooctane and dn=1,9-diaminononane, were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectra and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. In 1, the sac ligand bridges adjacent Ag(I) ions through the nitrogen and carbonyl oxygen atoms to form eight-membered bimetallic rings with the Ag···Ag distance being 3.897 Å, which are linked by db ligands to give a 1D zigzag chain. The complexes 2–5a consist of a one-dimensional (1D) linear cationic chains and discrete mononuclear anions. The discreet complex units are further connected by ligand unsupported argentophilic interactions. In 6, the dn ligands bridge adjacent silver centers to form 24-membered macrometallacyclic rings, which are further connected to the anionic [Ag(sac){sub 2}]{sup -} units by argentophilic Ag1···Ag2 interactions to form a tetranuclear structure. The adjacent dinuclear units are further linked together through ligand-unsupported argentophilic Ag···Ag (3.207(1) Å) interactions, generating a one-dimensional linear chain. The most striking feature of complexes is the presence of the rare intermolecular C-H···Ag interactions. In 5b, the do ligand bridges two Ag(I) ions to form a dinuclear with a 22-membered macrometallacyclic ring. Furthermore, biological activities, luminescence properties and thermal analysis (TG/DTA) of the complexes were investigated. - Graphical abstract: In this study, six new silver coordination compounds were synthesized by using saccharinate and flexible aliphatic diamine derivatives. All the compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, IR and single-crystal X-ray analysis. TG/DTA. Furthermore, biological activities, luminescence properties and thermal analysis (TG/DTA) of the complexes have been investigated. Complexes 1–5a and 6 were synthesized with the same reactant ratio and room temperature by using a mixture of AgNO{sub 3}, sac and different length diamine derivatives. The complex 5b is also synthesized was similar to that of 1 at 80 °C. In the complexes, the diamine derivatives ligands show bis(bridging) coordination mode. The sac ligand exhibits a µ-bridging coordination mode in 1 and N-donor monodentate coordination mode in 2–6. Complexes 1–5 exhibit 1D chain structure while complex 6 are tetranuclear structure. In the crystal packing of complexes, 3D supramolecular frameworks are formed via C-H···Ag, Ag···π and Ag···Ag interactions.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Selective Se-for-S substitution in Cs-bearing uranyl compounds

Phase formation in the mixed sulfate-selenate aqueous system of uranyl nitrate and cesium nitrate has been investigated. Two types of crystalline compounds have been obtained and characterized using a number of experimental (single crystal XRD, FTIR, SEM) and theoretical (information-based complexity calculations, topological analysis) techniques. No miscibility gaps have been observed for Cs{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(TO{sub 4}){sub 3}] (T= S, Se), which crystallizes in tetragonal system, P-42{sub 1}m, a =9.616(1)–9.856(2), c =8.105(1)–8.159(1) Å, V =749.6(2)–792.5(3) Å{sup 3}. Nine phases with variable amount of S and Se have been structurally characterized. The structures of the Cs{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(TO{sub 4}){sub 3}] (T= S, Se) compounds are based upon the [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(TO{sub 4}){sub 3}]{sup 2-} layers of corner-sharing uranyl pentagonal bipyramids and TO{sub 4} tetrahedra. The layers contain two types of tetrahedral sites: T1 (3-connected, i.e. having three O atoms shared by adjacent uranyl polyhedra) and T2 (4-connected). The Se-for-S substitution in tetrahedral sites is highly selective with smaller S{sup 6+} cation showing a strong preference for the more tightly bonded T2 site. Crystallization in the pure Se system starts with the formation of Cs{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2})(SeO{sub 4}){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O)](H{sub 2}O) crystals, its subsequent dissolution and formation of Cs{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(SeO{sub 4}){sub 3}]. The information-based structural complexity calculations for these two phases support the rule that more topologically complex structures form at the latest stages of crystallization. - Graphical abstract: Nine phases representing the Cs{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(TO{sub 4}){sub 3}] (T= S, Se) solid solution series with variable amount of S and Se have been prepared by isothermal evaporation from aqueous solutions and characterized using a number of experimental and theoretical techniques. No immiscibility is observed between the pure sulfate and selenate compounds. The Se-for-S substitution in tetrahedral sites is highly selective with smaller S{sup 6+} cation showing a strong preference for the more tightly bonded 4-connected site. - Highlights: • Single crystals of novel mixed sulfate-selenate uranyl oxysalts were prepared by evaporation method. • Topological analysis and information-based complexity calculations were used for structure description. • The selective Se-for-S substitution was observed. • Evolution of phase formation in the aqueous Cs{sup +}–UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}–SO{sub 4}{sup 2–}–SeO{sub 4}{sup 2–} system was analyzed.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Potassium and magnesium succinatouranilates – Synthesis and crystal structure

Single crystal X-ray diffraction has been applied to determine the structures of two new uranyl coordination polymers: K{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}] (1) and [Mg(H{sub 2}O){sub 6}] [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·2H{sub 2}O (2), where C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}{sup 2-} is succinate anion. Crystals of 1 and 2 contain polymeric complex anions [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]{sup 2-} with the same A{sub 2}Q{sup 02}{sub 3} crystallochemical formula (A=UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}, Q{sup 02}=C{sub 4}O{sub 4}H{sub 4}{sup 2-}), and have layered (1) or chain (2) structure. It has been found, that conformation of succinate ions is one of the factors, which affects the structure of [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]{sup 2-} anions. IR spectra of these new compounds are in good agreement with crystallographic data. Topological analysis of the uranium dicarboxylates with A{sub 2}Q{sup 02}{sub 3} crystallochemical formula has shown the presence of five isomers which differ from each other in coordination sequences and / or dimensionality. - Graphical abstract: Crystal structures of two new uranium(VI) coordination polymers with succinate linkers, namely K{sub 2}[(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}] (1) and [Mg(H{sub 2}O){sub 6}][(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 4}H{sub 4}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·2H{sub 2}O (2), were determined by single-crystal XRD. Crystals of studied compounds are based on 2D or 1D structural units with the same composition and crystallochemical formula. Topological isomerism in A{sub 2}Q{sup 02}{sub 3} crystallochemical group and conformations of succinate anions in uranyl complexes are under discussion. - Highlights: • Two new uranium coordination polymers were synthesized. • Their structural units have the same composition and crystallochemical formula. • In spite the same composition and CCF dimensionality of units is different. • Structural features of uranyl CPs are affected by linker conformations.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Homochiral coordination polymers with helixes and metal clusters based on lactate derivatives

Utilizing the lactic acid derivatives (R)-4-(1-carboxyethoxy)benzoic acid (denoted: (R)-H{sub 2}CBA) and (S)-4-(1-carboxyethoxy)benzoic acid (denoted: (S)-H{sub 2}CBA)as chiral linkers to self-assemble with 4, 4′-bipyridine (denoted: BIP) and Cd(II) ions, a couple of three-dimensional homochiral coordination polymers, namely [Cd{sub 3}((R)-CBA){sub 3} (BIP){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O)]·xGuest (1-D) and [Cd{sub 3}((S)-CBA){sub 3}(BIP){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O)]·xGuest (1-L), have been synthesized under solvothermal reaction condition. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals the two complexes contain single helical chains based on enantiopure ligands and cadmium clusters. Moreover, some physical characteristics such as PXRD, thermal stability, solid-state circular dichroism (CD) and luminescent were also investigated. - Graphical abstract: Utilizing enantiomeric lactic acid derivatives (R)-H{sub 2}CBA and (S)-H{sub 2}CBA to assemble with Cd{sup 2+} ions and ancillary BIP ligands, a couple of 3D homochiral coordination polymers with metal clusters and helical chains have been prepared by hydrothermal reaction. - Highlights: • Chiral lactic acid derivative. • Enantiomeric coordination polymer. • Helical chain. • Trinuclear cadmium cluster.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2017

Preparation of single-crystal spherical γ-Mo{sub 2}N by temperature-programmed reaction between β-MoO{sub 3} and NH{sub 3}

In the present wok, single-crystalline spherical γ-Mo{sub 2}N powders was successfully prepared by the temperature-programmed reaction of single-crystal spherical β-MoO{sub 3} with NH{sub 3} in the temperature ranges of 1013–1073 K. Herein, the Mo source used was monoclinic system, β-MoO{sub 3}, a metastable phase of MoO{sub 3}. It is found that the characterizations of the as-prepared γ-Mo{sub 2}N powders are strongly depended on the selection of the MoO{sub 3} precursor. In other words, the as-prepared γ-Mo{sub 2}N powders inherited the shape, size and structure of the used β-MoO{sub 3} precursors upon reaction with NH{sub 3}. In order to make a comparison, β-MoO{sub 3} was also reduced by the mixed gases of N{sub 2} and H{sub 2} with the flow rate ratio of 1:3 at the identical conditions. It was found that pure β-Mo{sub 2}N polycrystalline can be obtained when the temperature was 1013 K; while further increasing the reaction temperature, metal Mo powder will be turned up. - Highlights: • Metastable phase β-MoO{sub 3} was used to prepare Mo{sub 2}N via temperature-programmed reaction. • Single-crystal spherical γ-Mo{sub 2}N can be obtained by reducing Single-crystal spherical β-MoO{sub 3} with NH{sub 3}. • The as-prepared γ-Mo{sub 2}N inherited the morphology and size of β-MoO{sub 3} precursors. • β-Mo{sub 2}N can be obtained if using the N{sub 2}-H{sub 2} mixed gases. • The morphologies of β-Mo{sub 2}N had no heredity with the parent MoO{sub 3}.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2015

Microstructure tuning and magnetism switching of ferroelectric barium titanate

Single-crystal and polycrystal BaTiO{sub 3} (BTO) materials synthesized by the physical and chemical methods, respectively, have been studied based on microstructural characterizations and magnetic measurements. The results of X-ray diffraction and Raman scatting spectra show that a single crystal tetragonal to polycrystalline pseudo-cubic structure transformation occurs in BTO ferroelectrics, dependent of growth conditions and interface effects. High-resolution transmission electron microscope data indicate that the as-prepared BTO/SrTiO{sub 3} (001) and BTO/SrRuO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} (001) heterostructures are highly c-axis oriented with atomic sharp interfaces. Lattice defects (i.e., edge-type misfit dislocations and stacking faults) in the heterostructures could be identified clearly and showed tunable with the variations of interface strain. Furthermore, the effects of vacancy defects on magnetic properties of BTO are discussed, which shows a diamagnetism–ferromagnetism switching as intrinsic vacancies increase. This work opens up a possible avenue to prepare magnetic BTO ferroelectrics. - Highlights: • Structure of BTO is tunable, depending on growth conditions and interface strain. • STEM–EDX data indicate the presence of lattice defects in BTO ferroelectrics. • BTO magnetism could be controlled by defects showing dia-ferromagnetism switching. • BTO with more vacancies shows RTFM, as evidence of vacancy magnetism effects.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2015

The inhibiting effect of dislocation helices on the stress-induced orientation of S' precipitates in Al–Cu–Mg alloy

The phenomenon of restrained stress-induced preferential orientation of S′ precipitates is investigated using a single-crystal of Al–1.23Cu–0.43 Mg alloy. Al–1.23Cu–0.43 Mg single-crystal specimens are subjected to stress aging, and the microstructure is analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It is found that the stress-induced preferential orientation of S′ precipitates is restrained owing to the dislocations produced by a higher stress. The effect of dislocations on the oriented precipitates depends on the total length of the intersection lines for precipitate habit planes and dislocation glide planes. This investigation not only provides important insight into solving the anisotropy problem attributed to precipitation strengthening, but also offers a benchmark for choosing the appropriate stress range in manufacturing of Al–Cu–Mg alloys. - Highlights: • Single crystals of an Al–Cu–Mg alloy were prepared for the investigations. • A phenomenon of restrained stress-induced preferential orientation of S′ precipitates was found. • The influence of dislocation helices on precipitation during stress-aging was studied. • Difference of orientation degree of S′ precipitates and θ′ precipitates was explained. • A basis for choosing the appropriate stress range in manufacturing of Al–Cu–Mg alloys is provided.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Characterisation of a complex thin walled structure fabricated by selective laser melting using a ferritic oxide dispersion strengthened steel

Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys exhibit superior mechanical and physical properties due to the presence of nanoscopic Y(Al, Ti) oxide precipitates, but their manufacturing process is complex. The present study is aimed at further investigation of the application of an alternative, Additive Manufacturing (AM) technique, Selective Laser Melting (SLM), to the production of consolidated ODS alloy components. Mechanically alloyed PM2000 (ODS-FeCrAl) powders have been consolidated and a fine dispersion of Y-containing precipitates were observed in an as built thin-walled component, but these particles were typically poly-crystalline and contained a variety of elements including O, Al, Ti, Cr and Fe. Application of post-build heat treatments resulted in the modification of particle structures and compositions; in the annealed condition most precipitates were transformed to single crystal yttrium aluminium oxides. During the annealing treatment, precipitate distributions homogenised and localised variations in number density were diminished. The resulting volume fractions of those precipitates were 25–40% lower than have been reported in conventionally processed PM2000, which was attributed to Y-rich slag-like surface features and inclusions formed during SLM. - Highlights: • A wall structure was grown from ODS steel powder using selective laser melting. • A fine dispersion of nano-precipitates was apparent in as-build material. • Precipitates were multi-phased containing several elements, e.g. O, Ti, Al, Fe, Cr, Y. • Post-build annealing changed those into typically single-crystalline Y–Al–O. • The anneal also reduced and stabilised the volume fraction of precipitates to ~ 0.006.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Facile synthesis of three dimensional porous ZnO films with mesoporous walls and gas sensing properties

Controllable synthesis of 3-D mesoporous ZnO films is highly desirable for gas sensor application. Herein, we report a facile preparation of 3-D mesoporous ZnO film on Ag interdigitated electrodes substrate. The as-prepared ZnO film has a mesoporous walls ranging from 2–5 nm, as revealed by XRD, SEM, and TEM. Importantly, the as-prepared 3-D ZnO film shows an excellent ethanol gas sensing. - Graphical abstract: The detailed electron microscopy studies indicated that the as grown ZnO nanowalls exhibited a mesoporous structure composed of numerous tiny single crystals nanoparticles with an average size of 5 nm. One important issue for the application of the porous material was the specific surface area. - Highlights: • Novel three dimensional porous ZnO films with mesoporous walls were synthesized via a facile solution method. • The mesoporous ZnO nanowalls showed a high sensitivity (36.67) to 200 ppm ethanol at 285 °C. • The reason of their superior response time and changing amplitude was discussed.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Investigation and characterization of ZnO single crystal microtubes

Morphological, structural, and optical characterization of microwave synthesized ZnO single crystal microtubes were investigated in this work. The structure and morphology of the ZnO microtubes are characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), single crystal diffraction (SCD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results reveal that the as-synthesized ZnO microtube has a highly regular hexagonal cross section and smooth surfaces with an average length of 650–700 μm, an average outer diameter of 50 μm and wall thickness of 1–3 μm, possessing a single crystal wurtzite hexagonal structure. Optical properties of ZnO single crystal microtubes were investigated by photoluminescence (PL) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption techniques. Room-temperature PL spectrum of the microtube reveal a strong UV emission peak at around 375.89 nm and broad and a weak visible emission with a main peak identified at 577 nm, which was assigned to the nearest band-edge emission and the deep-level emission, respectively. The band gap energy of ZnO microtube was found to be 3.27 eV. - Highlights: • ZnO microtube length of 650–700 μm, diameter of 50 μm, wall thickness of 1–3 μm • ZnO microtube possesses a single crystal wurtzite hexagonal structure. • The crystal system is hexahedral oriented along a-axis with indices of (100). • A strong and sharp UV emission at 375.89 nm (3.29 eV) • One prominent absorption band around 378.88 nm (3.27 eV)

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Effect of loading orientations on the microstructure and property of Al−Cu single crystal during stress aging

The precipitation behavior and property of Al−Cu alloy during stress aging under various loading orientations were investigated using single crystals. The resulting microstructures and the strength property were examined by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and compression test, respectively, and the effect of the distribution of θ′-plates on strength property were discussed. The results show that the precipitation distribution of θ′ was significantly affected by the loading orientation during stress aging of Al−Cu single crystals. Loading along close to 〈011〉{sub Al} directions provided more uniform precipitation distribution of θ′ as compared to loading along close to 〈001〉{sub Al} directions, and therefore provided higher strengthening stress of the θ′-plates for the stress aging sample. The results suggested that regulating the distribution of θ′ and therefore improving strength property are possible via controlling the loading orientation during stress aging. - Highlights: • We studied the effect of loading directions on stress aging of Al−Cu single crystal. • Precipitation distribution of θ′ was noticeably affected by the loading direction. • Loading along close to 〈011〉{sub Al} directions reduced the stress-orienting effect. • The strength property is closely related to the precipitation distribution of θ′. • It is possible to regulate the distribution of θ′ and improve strength property.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Determination of grain boundary mobility during recrystallization by statistical evaluation of electron backscatter diffraction measurements

One of the key aspects influencing microstructural design pathways in metallic systems is grain boundary motion. The present work introduces a method by means of which direct measurement of grain boundary mobility vs. misorientation dependence is made possible. The technique utilizes datasets acquired by means of serial electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) measurements. The experimental EBSD measurements are collectively analyzed, whereby datasets were used to obtain grain boundary mobility and grain aspect ratio with respect to grain boundary misorientation. The proposed method is further validated using cellular automata (CA) simulations. Single crystal aluminium was cold rolled and scratched in order to nucleate random orientations. Subsequent annealing at 300 °C resulted in grains growing, in the direction normal to the scratch, into a single deformed orientation. Growth selection was observed, wherein the boundaries with misorientations close to Σ7 CSL orientation relationship (38° 〈111〉) migrated considerably faster. The obtained boundary mobility distribution exhibited a non-monotonic behavior with a maximum corresponding to misorientation of 38° ± 2° about 〈111〉 axes ± 4°, which was 10–100 times higher than the mobility values of random high angle boundaries. Correlation with the grain aspect ratio values indicated a strong growth anisotropy displayed by the fast growing grains. The observations have been discussed in terms of the influence of grain boundary character on grain boundary motion during recrystallization. - Highlights: • Statistical microstructure method to measure grain boundary mobility during recrystallization • Method implementation independent of material or crystal structure • Mobility of the Σ7 boundaries in 5N Al was calculated as 4.7 × 10{sup –8} m{sup 4}/J ⋅ s. • Pronounced growth selection in the recrystallizing nuclei in Al • Boundary mobility values during recrystallization 2–3 orders of magnitude larger vis-à-vis curvature driven motion.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2016

Influence of severe plastic deformation on intermetallic particles in Mg-12 wt.%Zn alloy investigated using transmission electron microscopy

The in-depth microstructural characterization of intermetallic particles in an Mg-12 wt.%Zn binary alloy subjected to a severe plastic deformation is presented. The alloy was processed by four passes via equal channel angular pressing with an applied back pressure at a gradually decreasing temperature and analyzed using transmission electron microscopy techniques to observe the influence of processing on intermetallic particles. The results are compared with the initial state of the material prior to severe plastic deformation. The microstructural evolution of the α-Mg matrix and the Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25}, Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} and MgZn{sub 2} was analyzed using bright field imaging, selected area electron diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and high-angle annular dark field imaging in scanning mode. The plastic deformation process influenced the α-Mg matrix and each type of intermetallic particle. The α-Mg matrix consisted of two types of areas. The first type of area had a highly deformed structure, and the second type of area had a partially recrystallized structure with an average grain size of approximately 250 nm. The Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles exhibited distinct forms in the α-Mg matrix that were characterized as a single-crystalline form, a nano-crystalline form and a broken up form. No evidence of Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles within the α-Mg matrix was found in the microstructure, which indicates their dissolution or phase transformation during the deformation process. MgZn{sub 2} nanoparticles exhibited different behavior in both types of α-Mg matrix. Two orientation relationships toward the highly deformed α-Mg matrix were observed; however, there was no relationship toward the partially recrystallized α-Mg matrix. Additionally, the growth of the MgZn{sub 2} nanoparticles was different in the two types of α-Mg matrix. The Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles inside Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles exhibited a distinct behavior within the single-crystalline or nano-crystalline form of the parent Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles. The Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} + Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} eutectic compound was confirmed for both forms of the parent Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles, and the growth of Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles is discussed. - Highlights: •Comprehensive microstructure characterization of Mg-12 wt.%Zn alloy after ECAP-BP •TEM analysis of changes of intermetallic phases caused by SPD •Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} particles exhibit nano-crystalline regions with grain size below 100 nm. •MgZn{sub 2} preserved its orientation relationship toward highly deformed α-Mg after SPD. •Existence of Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} + Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} eutectic remained for each Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} particle form.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗