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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Distinct universality classes of diffusive transport from full counting statistics

The hydrodynamic transport of local conserved densities furnishes an effective coarse-grained description of the dynamics of a many-body quantum system. However, the full quantum dynamics contains much more structure beyond the simplified hydrodynamic description. Here we show that systems with the same hydrodynamics can nevertheless belong to distinct dynamical universality classes, as revealed by new classes of experimental observables accessible in synthetic quantum systems, which can, for instance, measure simultaneous site-resolved snapshots of all of the particles in a system. Specifically, we study the full counting statistics of spin transport, whose first moment is related to linear-response transport, but the higher moments go beyond. We present an analytic theory of the full counting statistics of spin transport in various integrable and nonintegrable anisotropic one-dimensional spin models, including the XXZ spin chain. We find that spin transport, while diffusive on average, is governed by a distinct non-Gaussian dynamical universality class in the models considered. We consider a setup in which the left and right half of the chain are initially created at different magnetization densities, and consider the probability distribution of the magnetization transferred between the two half-chains. We derive a closed-form expression for the probability distribution of the magnetization transfer, in terms of random walks on the half-line. We show that this distribution strongly violates the large-deviation form expected for diffusive chaotic systems, and explain the physical origin of this violation. Here, we discuss the crossovers that occur as the initial state is brought closer to global equilibrium. Our predictions can directly be tested in experiments using quantum gas microscopes or superconducting qubit arrays.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2018

Temperature-dependent conformations of exciton-coupled Cy3 dimers in double-stranded DNA

Understanding the properties of electronically interacting molecular chromophores, which involve internally coupled electronic-vibrational motions, is important to the spectroscopy of many biologically relevant systems. In this paper, we apply linear absorption, circular dichroism, and two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy to study the polarized collective excitations of excitonically coupled cyanine dimers (Cy3) 2 that are rigidly positioned within the opposing sugar-phosphate backbones of the double-stranded region of a double-stranded (ds)–single-stranded (ss) DNA fork construct. We show that the exciton-coupling strength of the (Cy3) 2 -DNA construct can be systematically varied with temperature below the ds–ss DNA denaturation transition. We interpret spectroscopic measurements in terms of the Holstein vibronic dimer model, from which we obtain information about the local conformation of the (Cy3) 2 dimer, as well as the degree of static disorder experienced by the Cy3 monomer and the (Cy3) 2 dimer probe locally within their respective DNA duplex environments. The properties of the (Cy3) 2 -DNA construct we determine suggest that it may be employed as a useful model system to test fundamental concepts of protein-DNA interactions and the role of electronic-vibrational coherence in electronic energy migration within exciton-coupled bio-molecular arrays.

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

VIBRATIONALLY EXCITED C{sub 4}H

Rotational spectra in four new excited vibrational levels of the linear carbon chain radical C{sub 4}H were observed in the millimeter band between 69 and 364 GHz in a low pressure glow discharge, and two of these were observed in a supersonic molecular beam between 19 and 38 GHz. All have rotational constants within 0.4% of the X{sup 2}Σ{sup +} ground vibrational state of C{sub 4}H and were assigned to new bending vibrational levels, two each with {sup 2}Σ and {sup 2}Π vibrational symmetry. The new levels are tentatively assigned to the 1ν{sub 6} and 1ν{sub 5} bending vibrational modes (both with {sup 2}Π symmetry), and the 1ν{sub 6}+1ν{sub 7} and 1ν{sub 5}+1ν{sub 6} combination levels ({sup 2}Σ symmetry) on the basis of the derived spectroscopic constants, relative intensities in our discharge source, and published laser spectroscopic and quantum calculations. Prior spectroscopic constants in the 1ν{sub 7} and 2ν{sub 7} levels were refined. Also presented are interferometric maps of the ground state and the 1ν{sub 7} level obtained with the Submillimeter Array (SMA) near 257 GHz which show that C{sub 4}H is present near the central star in IRC+10216. We found no evidence with the SMA for the new vibrationally excited levels of C{sub 4}H at a peak flux density averaged over a 3{sup ′′} synthesized beam of ⩾0.15 Jy/beam in the 294–296 and 304–306 GHz range, but it is anticipated that rotational lines in the new levels might be observed in IRC+10216 when ALMA attains its full design capability.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2011

Coupler Studies for PBG Fiber Accelerators

Photonic band gap (PBG) fiber with hollow core defects are being designed and fabricated for use as laser driven accelerators because they can provide gradients of several GeV/m for picosecond pulse lengths. We expect to produce fiber down to {lambda} = 1.5-2.0 {micro}m wavelengths but still lack a viable means for efficient coupling of laser power into such structures due to the very different character of the TM-like modes from those used in the telecom field and the fact that the defect must function as both a longitudinal waveguide for the accelerating field and a transport channel for the particles. We discuss the status of our work in pursuing both end and side coupling. For both options, the symmetry of these crystals leads to significant differences with the telecom field. Side coupling provides more options and appears to be preferred. Our goals are to test gradients, mode content and coupling efficiencies on the NLCTA at SLAC. While there are many potential types of fiber based on very different fabrication methods and materials we will concentrate on 2D axisymmetric glass with hexagonal symmetry but will discuss several different geometries including 2D and 3D planar structures. Since all of these can be fabricated using modern techniques with a variety of dielectric materials they are expected to have desirable optical and radiation hardness properties. Thus, we expect a new generation of very high gradient accelerators that extends the Livingston-Panofsky chart of exponential growth in energy vs. time at greatly reduced costs. For illustration, Fig.1 shows a simulation of our first engineered fiber with an accelerating mode expected near 7.3 {micro}m that is now ready to test on the NLCTA. In this example, one sees the uniform longitudinal accelerating field in the central defect as first shown by Lin3 together with a hexagonal array of surrounding hot spots. Contrary to what one expects from the telecom field, Ng et al. have shown4 that the ideal end-coupling scheme for this structure appears as shown in Fig. 2 with a six-fold array of laser spots focused inside the end of the fiber. While convenient for an on-axis particle beam, this is inconvenient for the laser drive field as well as the tolerances it places on the end cleave of the fiber. The importance of the crystal symmetry is clearly shown so that one might expect side coupling to reflect a similar pattern which we find that it does unless the hexagonal symmetry is perturbed sufficiently. This can be done in several ways and will be discussed further.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2022

Effect of Redox-Inactive Metal Ion–Nickel(III) Interactions on the Redox Properties and Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer Reactivity

We report Mononuclear nickel(II) and nickel(III) complexes of a bisamidate-bisalkoxide ligand, (NMe 4 ) 2 [Ni- II (HMPAB)] (1) and (NMe 4 )[Ni III (HMPAB)] (2), respectively, have been synthesized and characterized by various spectroscopic techniques including X-ray crystallography. The reaction of redox-inactive metal ions (M n+ = Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , Zn 2+ , Y 3+ , and Sc 3+ ) with 2 resulted in 2-M n+ adducts, which was assessed by an array of spectroscopic techniques including X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and reactivity studies. The X-ray structure of Ca 2+ coordinated to Ni(III) complexes, 2Ca 2+ T, was determined and exhibited an average Ni-Ca distance of 3.1253 angstrom, close to the metal ions' covalent radius. XAS analysis of 2-Ca 2+ and 2-Y 3+ in solution further revealed an additional coordination to Ca and Y in the 2-M n+ adducts with shortened Ni-M distances of 2.15 and 2.11 Å, respectively, implying direct bonding interactions between Ni and Lewis acids (LAs). Such a short interatomic distance between Ni(III) and M is unprecedented and was not observed before. EPR analysis of 2 and 2-M n+ species, moreover, displayed rhombic signals with g av > 2.12 for all complexes, supporting the +III oxidation state of Ni. The Ni III /Ni II redox potential of 2 and 2-M n+ species was determined, and a plot of E 1/ 2 of 2-M n+ versus pK a of [M(H 2 O) n ] m+ exhibited a linear relationship, implying that the Ni III /Ni II potential of 2 can be tuned with different redox-inactive metal ions. Reactivity studies of 2 and 2-M n+ with different 4-X-2,6-ditert-butylphenol (4-XDTBP) and other phenol derivatives were performed, and based on kinetic studies, we propose the involvement of a proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) pathway. Analysis of the reaction products after the reaction of 2 with 4-OMe-DTBP showed the formation of a Ni(II) complex (1a) where one of the alkoxide arms of the ligand is protonated. A pK a value of 24.2 was estimated for 1a. The reaction of 2-M n+ species was examined with 4-OMe-DTBP, and it was observed that the k 2 values of 2-M n+ species increase by increasing the Lewis acidity of redox-inactive metal ions. However, the obtained k 2 values for 2-M n+ species are much lower compared to the k 2 value for 2. Such a variation of PCET reactivity between 2 and 2-M n+ species may be attributed to the interactions between Ni(III) and LAs. Our findings show the significance of the secondary coordination sphere effect on the PCET reactivity of Ni(III) complexes and furnish important insights into the reaction mechanism involving high-valent nickel species, which are frequently invoked as key intermediates in Ni-mediated enzymatic reactions, solar-fuel catalysis, and biomimetic/synthetic transformation reactions.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2016

Size-Dependent Coherent-Phonon Plasmon Modulation and Deformation Characterization in Gold Bipyramids and Nanojavelins

Localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) arising from metallic nanoparticles offer an array of prospective applications that range from chemical sensing to biotherapies. Bipyramidal particles exhibit particularly narrow ensemble LSPR resonances that reflect small dispersity of size and shape but until recently were only synthetically accessible over a limited range of sizes with corresponding aspect ratios. Narrow size dispersion offers the opportunity to examine ensemble dynamical phenomena such as coherent phonons that induce periodic oscillations of the LSPR energy. Here, we characterize transient optical behavior of a large range of gold bipyramid sizes, as well as higher aspect ratio nanojavelin ensembles with specific attention to the lowest-order acoustic phonon mode of these nanoparticles. We report coherent phonon-driven oscillations of the LSPR position for particles with resonances spanning 670 to 1330 nm. Nanojavelins were shown to behave similarly to bipyramids but offer the prospect of separate control over LSPR energy and coherent phonon oscillation period. We develop a new methodology for quantitatively measuring mechanical expansion caused by photogenerated coherent phonons. Using this method, we find an elongation of approximately 1% per photon absorbed per unit cell and that particle expansion along the lowest frequency acoustic phonon mode is linearly proportional to excitation fluence for the fluence range studied. These characterizations provide insight regarding means to manipulate phonon period and transient mechanical deformation.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2022

Multi-channel front-end ASIC for a 3D position-sensitive detector

Arrays of 3D position-sensitive detectors (3DPSD), operating at room temperature and using cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) and thallium bromide (TIBr) sensors, are suitable for gamma-ray spectrometry in many applications. One detector configuration, the 3D position-sensitive Virtual Frisch-Grid detector (VFG), is particularly advantageous for integrating into large area arrays. The signals generated inside each detector of the array are captured with the anode, cathode and four pads that enable the reconstruction of the position and energy of the ionizing interaction by measurements of amplitude and timing of the signals. For these applications, a low-noise front-end ASIC has been developed, capable of processing bipolar signals (needed because of AC-coupling of certain electrodes). The ASIC can be coupled to an ADC in order to form a compound “waveform digitizer” capable of post-processing the analog signals and determining amplitude and timing information. This paper describes a 32-channel front-end ASIC that is suitable for reading out a 3 × 3 or 4 × 4 element matrix in the VFG configuration. Each channel is composed of a low-noise charge amplifier with an adaptive continuous reset feedback circuit suitable for both positive and negative charge, a first order shaper and a single-to-differential converter output stage. Voltage and current references are all internally generated by 10-bit DACs and the chip is fully controllable with the I 2 C communication protocol. The readout channel response has been verified using the implemented injection circuit. Linear behavior up to ~75 ke ± with the gain of ~80 mV/fC, and up to ~200 ke ± with the gain of ~30 mV/fC was demonstrated. In conclusion, the first test result waveforms using a 137 Cs radioactive source on a 5 × 5 × 12 mm 3 TIBr crystal are reported.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2011

SANE Of Jefferson Lab: Spin Asymmetries on the Nucleon Experiment

The Spin Asymmetry on the Nucleon Experiment (SANE) at Jefferson Lab measures proton spin observables A{sub 1}{sup p}, A{sub 2}{sup p} and structure functions g{sub 1}{sup p} and g{sub 2}{sup p} over a broad range of Bjorken scaling variable x from 0.3 to 0.8, for four-momentum transfers ranging from 2.5 GeV{sup 2} to 6.5 GeV{sup 2}. Inclusive double spin asymmetries were measured by scattering 4.7 and 5.9-GeV longitudinally polarized electron beam off a polarized solid NH{sub 3} target, in both parallel and near-perpendicular configuration. Scattered electrons were detected using a novel non-magnetic detector array with 194-msr acceptance. This paper presents the physics motivation for the experiment, the detector performance, and the latest status of the ongoing data analysis.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2011

Influence of induced axial magnetic field on plasma dynamics and radiative characteristics of Z pinches

The influence of an induced axial magnetic field on plasma dynamics and radiative characteristics of Z pinches is investigated. An axial magnetic field was induced in a novel Z-pinch load: a double planar wire array with skewed wires (DPWAsk), which represents a planar wire array in an open magnetic configuration. The induced axial magnetic field suppressed magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor (MRT) instabilities (with m = 0 and m = 1 instability modes) in the Z-pinch plasma. The influence of the initial axial magnetic field on the structure of the plasma column at stagnation was manifested through the formation of a more uniform plasma column compared to a standard double planar wire array (DPWA) load [V. L. Kantsyrev et al., Phys. Plasmas 15, 030704 (2008)]. The DPWAsk load is characterized by suppression of MRT instabilities and by the formation of the sub-keV radiation pulse that occurs before the main x-ray peak. Gradients in plasma parameters along the cathode-anode gap were observed and analyzed for DPWAsk loads made from low atomic number Z (Al) and mid-Z (brass) wires.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2019

Assessing Correlations of Perovskite Catalytic Performance with Electronic Structure Descriptors

Electronic structure descriptors are computationally efficient quantities used to construct qualitative correlations for a variety of properties. In particular, the oxygen p-band center has been used to guide material discovery and fundamental understanding of an array of perovskite compounds for use in catalyzing the oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. Yet, an assessment of the effectiveness of the oxygen p-band center at predicting key measures of perovskite catalytic activity has not been made and would be highly beneficial to guide future predictions and codify best practices. In this work, we have used density functional theory at the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (PBE), PBEsol, PBE + U, strongly constrained and appropriately normed functional, and Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof (HSE06) levels to assess the correlations of numerous measures of catalytic performance for a series of technologically relevant perovskite oxides, using the bulk oxygen p-band center as an electronic structure descriptor. We have analyzed correlations of the calculated oxygen p-band center for all considered functionals with the experimentally measured X-ray emission spectroscopy oxygen p-band center and multiple measures of catalytic activity, including high-temperature oxygen reduction surface exchange rates, aqueous oxygen evolution current densities, and binding energies of oxygen evolution intermediate species. Our findings show that the best correlations for all measures of catalytic activity considered here are made with PBE-level calculations, with strong observed linear correlations with the bulk oxygen p-band center (R 2 = 0.81–0.87). This study illustrates that strong linear correlations between numerous important measures of catalytic activity and the oxygen p-band bulk descriptor can be obtained under a consistent computational framework, and these correlations can serve as a guide for future experiments and simulations for development of perovskite and related oxide catalysts.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2013

A whole-system approach to x-ray spectroscopy in cargo inspection systems

The bremsstrahlung x-ray spectrum used in high-energy, high-intensity x-ray cargo inspection systems is attenuated and modified by the materials in the cargo in a Z-dependent way. Therefore, spectroscopy of the detected x rays yields information about the Z of the x-rayed cargo material. It has previously been shown that such ZSpectroscopy (Z-SPEC) is possible under certain circumstances. A statistical approach, Z-SCAN (Z-determination by Statistical Count-rate ANalysis), has also been shown to be effective, and it can be used either by itself or in conjunction with Z-SPEC when the x-ray count rate is too high for individual x-ray spectroscopy. Both techniques require fast x-ray detectors and fast digitization electronics. It is desirable (and possible) to combine all techniques, including x-ray imaging of the cargo, in a single detector array, to reduce costs, weight, and overall complexity. In this paper, we take a whole-system approach to x-ray spectroscopy in x-ray cargo inspection systems, and show how the various parts interact with one another. Faster detectors and read-out electronics are beneficial for both techniques. A higher duty-factor x-ray source allows lower instantaneous count rates at the same overall x-ray intensity, improving the range of applicability of Z-SPEC in particular. Using an intensity-modulated advanced x-ray source (IMAXS) allows reducing the x-ray count rate for cargoes with higher transmission, and a stacked-detector approach may help material discrimination for the lowest attenuations. Image processing and segmentation allow derivation of results for entire objects, and subtraction of backgrounds. We discuss R and D performed under a number of different programs, showing progress made in each of the interacting subsystems. We discuss results of studies into faster scintillation detectors, including ZnO, BaF{sub 2} and PbWO{sub 4}, as well as suitable photo-detectors, read-out and digitization electronics. We discuss high-duty-factor linear-accelerator x-ray sources and their associated requirements, and how such sources improve spectroscopic techniques. We further discuss how image processing techniques help in correcting for backgrounds and overlapping materials. In sum, we present an integrated picture of how to optimize a cargo inspection system for x-ray spectroscopy.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2013

MAPPING THE CENTRAL REGION OF THE PPN CRL 618 AT SUBARCSECOND RESOLUTION AT 350 GHz

CRL 618 is a well-studied pre-planetary nebula. We have mapped its central region in continuum and molecular lines with the Submillimeter Array at 350 GHz at {approx}0.''3-0.''5 resolutions. Two components are seen in the 350 GHz continuum: (1) a compact emission at the center tracing the dense inner part of the H II region previously detected in a 23 GHz continuum and it may trace a fast ionized wind at the base; and (2) an extended thermal dust emission surrounding the H II region, tracing the dense core previously detected in HC{sub 3}N at the center of the circumstellar envelope. The dense core is dusty and may contain millimeter-sized dust grains. It may have a density enhancement in the equatorial plane. It is also detected in carbon chain molecules HC{sub 3}N and HCN and their isotopologues, with higher excitation lines tracing closer to the central star. It is also detected in CH{sub 2}CHCN toward the innermost part. Most of the emission detected here arises within {approx}630 AU (0.''7) of the central star. A simple radiative transfer model is used to derive the kinematics, physical conditions, and the chemical abundances in the dense core. The dense core is expanding and accelerating, with the velocity increasing roughly linearly from {approx}3 km s{sup -1} in the innermost part to {approx}16 km s{sup -1} at 630 AU. The mass-loss rate in the dense core is extremely high with a value of {approx}1.15 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -3} M{sub Sun} yr{sup -1}. The dense core has a mass of {approx}0.47 M{sub Sun} and a dynamical age of {approx}400 yr. It could result from a recent enhanced heavy mass-loss episode that ends the asymptotic giant branch phase. The isotopic ratios of {sup 12}C/{sup 13}C and {sup 14}N/{sup 15}N are 9 {+-} 4 and 150 {+-} 50, respectively, both lower than the solar values.

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

Compact Superconducting Radio-frequency Accelerators and Innovative RF Systems

We will present several new technical and design breakthroughs that enable the creation of a new class of compact linear electron accelerators for industrial purposes. Use of Superconducting Radio-Frequency (SRF) cavities allow accelerators less than 1.5 M in length to create electron beams beyond 10 MeV and with average beam powers measured in 10’s of KW. These machines can have the capability to vary the output energy dynamically to produce brehmstrahlung x-rays of varying spectral coverage for applications such as rapid scanning of moving cargo for security purposes. Such compact accelerators will also be cost effective for many existing and new industrial applications. Examples include radiation crosslinking of plastics and rubbers, creation of pure materials with surface properties radically altered from the bulk, modification of bulk or surface optical properties of materials, sterilization of medical instruments animal solid or liquid waste, and destruction of organic compounds in industrial waste water effluents. Small enough to be located on a mobile platform, such accelerators will enable new remediation methods for chemical and biological spills and/or in-situ crosslinking of materials. We will describe one current design under development at Fermilab including plans for prototype and value-engineering to reduce costs. We will also describe development of new nano-structured field-emitter arrays as sources of electrons, new methods for fabricating and cooling superconducting RF cavities, and a new novel RF power source based on magnetrons with full phase and amplitude control.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2011

Spin Asymmetries on Nucleon Experiment at Jefferson Lab

The Spin Asymmetries of the Nucleon Experiment (SANE) of Jefferson Lab is a comprehensive measurement of double spin asymmetries of the proton for both parallel and almost perpendicular spin configurations of the proton spin and the electron beam polarization directions. The experiment will provide both spin structure functions, g{sub 2} and g{sub 1} and spin observable A{sub 2} and A{sub 1} of the proton over Q{sup 2} region from 2.5 to 6.5 GeV{sup 2}/c{sup 2} and Bjorken x region of 0.3 to 0.8. Using the polarized electron beam of Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility and the polarized frozen NH{sub 3} target, the data were taken early 2009 in Hall C of Jefferson Lab. Scattered electrons from the inclusive reaction were detected by the Big Electron Telescope Array (BETA), a new non-magnetic detector with a large acceptance of 194 msr. The current analysis effort is focused on the proton spin structure functions g{sub 2} and g{sub 1}. Physics motivations with the experimental methods will be presented with an overview of the current status of the data analysis.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2014

SU-E-T-152: Error Sensitivity and Superiority of a Protocol for 3D IMRT Quality Assurance

Purpose: To test if the parameters included in our 3D QA protocol with current tolerance levels are able to detect certain errors and show the superiority of 3D QA method over single ion chamber measurements and 2D gamma test by detecting most of the introduced errors. The 3D QA protocol parameters are: TPS and measured average dose difference, 3D gamma test with 3mmDTA/3% test parameters, and structure volume for which the TPS predicted and measured absolute dose difference is greater than 6%. Methods: Two prostate and two thoracic step-and-shoot IMRT patients were investigated. The following errors were introduced to each original treatment plan: energy switched from 6MV to 10MV, linac jaws retracted to 15cmx15cm, 1,2,3 central MLC leaf pairs retracted behind the jaws, single central MLC leaf put in or out of the treatment field, Monitor Units (MU) increased and decreased by 1 and 3%, collimator off by 5 and 15 degrees, detector shifted by 5mm to the left and right, gantry treatment angle off by 5 and 15 degrees. QA was performed on each plan using single ion chamber, 2D ion chamber array for 2D gamma analysis and using IBA's COMPASS system for 3D QA. Results: Out of the three tested QA methods single ion chamber performs the worst not detecting subtle errors. 3D QA proves to be the superior out of the three methods detecting all of introduced errors, except 10MV and 1% MU change, and MLC rotated (those errors were not detected by any QA methods tested). Conclusion: As the way radiation is delivered evolves, so must the QA. We believe a diverse set of 3D statistical parameters applied both to OAR and target plan structures provides the highest level of QA.

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES↗
DOE OSTI2016

Extraordinary optical transmission in nanopatterned ultrathin metal films without holes

In this study, we experimentally and theoretically demonstrate that a continuous gold film on a periodically textured substrate exhibits extraordinary optical transmission, even though no holes were etched in the film. Our film synthesis started by nanoimprinting a periodic array of nanocups with a period of ~750 nm on a polystyrene film over a glass substrate. A thin non-conformal gold film was sputter-deposited on the polystyrene by angle-directed deposition. The gold film was continuous with spatial thickness variation, the film being thinnest at the bottom of the nanocup. Measurements revealed an extraordinary transmission peak at a wavelength just smaller than the period, with an enhancement of ~2.5 compared to the classically expected value. Scattering matrix simulations model well the transmission and reflectance measurements when an ultrathin gold layer (~5 nm), smaller than the skin depth is retained at the bottom of the nanocups. Electric field intensities are enhanced by >100 within the nanocup, and ~40 in the ultrathin gold layer causing transmission through it. We show a wavelength red-shift of ~30 nm in the extraordinary transmission peak when the nanocups are coated with a thin film of a few nanometers, which can be utilized for biosensing. The continuous corrugated metal films are far simpler structures to observe extraordinary transmission, circumventing the difficult process of etching the metal film. Such continuous metal films with ultrathin regions are simple platforms for non-linear optics, plasmonics, and biological and chemical sensing.

77 NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2013

THE PARABOLIC JET STRUCTURE IN M87 AS A MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC NOZZLE

The structure and dynamics of the M87 jet from sub-milliarcsec to arcsecond scales are continuously examined. We analyzed the Very Long Baseline Array archival data taken at 43 and 86 GHz to measure the size of very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) cores. Millimeter/sub-millimeter VLBI cores are considered as innermost jet emissions, which has been originally suggested by Blandford and Königl. Those components fairly follow an extrapolated parabolic streamline in our previous study so that the jet has a single power-law structure with nearly 5 orders of magnitude in the distance starting from the vicinity of the supermassive black hole (SMBH), less than 10 Schwarzschild radius (r{sub s}). We further inspect the jet parabolic structure as a counterpart of the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) nozzle in order to identify the property of a bulk acceleration. We interpret that the parabolic jet consists of Poynting-flux dominated flows, powered by large-amplitude, nonlinear torsional Alfvén waves. We examine the non-relativistic MHD nozzle equation in a parabolic shape. The nature of trans-fast magnetosonic flow is similar to the one of transonic solution of Parker's hydrodynamic solar wind; the jet becomes super-escape as well as super-fast magnetosonic at around ∼10{sup 3} r{sub s}, while the upstream trans-Alfvénic flow speed increases linearly as a function of the distance at ∼10{sup 2}-10{sup 3} r{sub s}. We here point out that this is the first evidence to identify these features in astrophysical jets. We propose that the M87 jet is magnetically accelerated, but thermally confined by the stratified interstellar medium inside the sphere of gravitational influence of the SMBH potential, which may be a norm in active galactic nucleus jets.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2021

Inelastic Scattering of a Photon by a Quantum Phase Slip

Spontaneous decay of a single photon is a notoriously inefficient process in nature irrespective of the frequency range. We report that a quantum phase-slip fluctuation in high-impedance superconducting waveguides can split a single incident microwave photon into a large number of lower-energy photons with a near unit probability. The underlying inelastic photon-photon interaction has no analogs in non-linear optics. Instead, the measured decay rates are explained without adjustable parameters in the framework of a new model of a quantum impurity in a Luttinger liquid. Our result connects circuit quantum electrodynamics to critical phenomena in two-dimensional boundary quantum field theories, important in the physics of strongly-correlated systems. Here, the photon lifetime data represents a rare example of verified and useful quantum many-body simulation.

1-dimensional systems↗