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At least 973 records · Page 54

Arbitrary electron dose waveforms for electron microscopy

A device may include an electron source, a detector, and a deflector. The electron source may be directed toward a sample area. The detector may receive an electron signal or an electron-induced signal. A deflector may be positioned between the electron source and the sample. The deflector may modulate an intensity of the electron source directed to the sample area according to an electron dose waveform having a continuously variable temporal profile.

Bloom, Ruth Shewmon↗

High-Temperature SiC Power Module with Integrated SiC Gate Drivers for Future High-Density Power Electronics Applications

This paper presents the testing results of an all-silicon carbide (SiC) intelligent power module (IPM) for use in future high-density power electronics applications. The IPM has high-temperature capability and contains both SiC power devices and SiC gate driver integrated circuits (ICs). The high-temperature capability of the SiC gate driver ICs allows for them to be packaged into the power module and be located physically close to the power devices. This provides a distinct advantage by reducing the gate driver loop inductance, which promotes high frequency operation, while also reducing the overall volume of the system through higher levels of integration. The power module was tested in a bridgeless-boost converter to showcase the performance of the module in a system level application. The converter was initially operated with a switching frequency of 200 kHz with a peak output power of approximately 5 kW. The efficiency of the converter was then evaluated experimentally and optimized by increasing the overdrive voltage on the SiC gate driver ICs. Overall a peak efficiency of 97.7% was measured at 3.0 kW output. The converter s switching frequency was then increased to 500 kHz to prove the high frequency capability of the power module was then pushed to its limits and operated at a switching frequency of 500 kHz. With no further optimization of components, the converter was able to operate under these conditions and showed a peak efficiency of 95.0% at an output power of 2.1 kW.

Whitaker, Mr. Bret↗

Coherent-phase or random-phase acceleration of electron beams in solar flares

Time structures of electron beam signatures at radio wavelengths are investigated to probe correlated versus random behavior in solar flares. In particular we address the issue whether acceleration and injection of electron beams is coherently modulated by a single source, or whether the injection is driven by a stochastic (possibly spatially fragmented) process. We analyze a total of approximately = 6000 type III bursts observed by Ikarus (Zurich) in the frequency range of 100-500 MHz, during 359 solar flares with simultaneous greater than or = 25 keV hard X-ray emission, in the years 1890-1983. In 155 flares we find a total of 260 continuous type III groups, with an average number of 13 +/- 9 bursts per group, a mean duration of D = 12 +/- 14 s, a mean period of P = 2.0 +/- 1.2 s, with the highest burst rate at a frequency of nu = 310 +/- 120 MHz. Pulse periods have been measured between 0.5 and 10 s, and can be described by an exponential distribution, i.e., N(P) varies as e (exp -P/1.0s). The period shows a frequency dependence of P(nu)=46(exp-0.6)(sub MHz)s for different flares, but is invariant during a particular flare. We measure the mean period P and its standard deviation sigma (sub p) in each type III group, and quantify the degree of periodicity (or phase-coherence) by the dimensionless parameter sigma (sub p)P. The representative sample of 260 type III burst groups shows a mean periodicity of sigma (sub p/P) = 0.37 +/- 0.12, while Monte Carlo simulations of an equivalent set of truly random time series show a distinctly different value of sigma (sub p)P = 0.93 +/- 0.26. This result indicates that the injection of electron beams is coherently modulated by a particle acceleration source which is either compact or has a global organization on a timescale of seconds, in contrast to an incoherent acceleration source, which is stochastic either in time or space. We discuss the constraints on the size of the acceleration region resulting from electron beam propagation delays and from Alfvenic synchronization during a pulse period. We discuss two periodic preocesses in flares, which potentially control quasi-periodic particle acceleration: (1) MHD oscillations, and (2) current sheets with oscillatory dynamics.

Aschwanden, Markus J.↗

High-resolution high-throughput spatiotemporal strain imaging reveals loss mechanisms in a surface acoustic wave device

Surface acoustic wave devices are key components for processing radio frequency signals in wireless communication because these devices offer simultaneously high performance, compact size and low cost. The optimization of the device structure requires a quantitative understanding of energy conversion and loss mechanisms. Here we use stroboscopic full-field diffraction x-ray microscopy to reveal an unanticipated acoustic loss in a prototypical one-port resonator device. A non-uniform acoustic excitation in the active area was responsible for the substantial end and side leakages observed at the design frequency. Quantitative analysis of the strain amplitude using a wave decomposition method allowed the determination of several key device parameters. This high-resolution high-throughput spatiotemporal strain imaging technique is more generally applicable to the study of dynamic strain modulation in nanoscale acoustic, electronic, optical and quantum devices. The high sensitivity allows precise measurement of the strain modulation with picometer-scale amplitude.

Zhou, Tao [ESRF - The European Synchrotron, Grenob↗

Polarization-dependent plasmonic photocurrents in two-dimensional electron systems

Plasmonic polarization dependent photocurrents in a homogeneous two-dimensional electron system are studied. Those effects are completely different from the photon drag and electronic photogalvanic effects as well as from the plasmonic ratchet effect in a density modulated two-dimensional electron system. Linear and helicity-dependent contributions to the photocurrent are found. The linear contribution can be interpreted as caused by the longitudinal and transverse plasmon drag effect. The helicity-dependent contribution originates from the non-linear electron convection and changes its sign with reversing the plasmonic field helicity. It is shown that the helicity-dependent component of the photocurrent can exceed the linear one by several orders of magnitude in high-mobility two-dimensional electron systems. The results open possibilities for all-electronic detection of the radiation polarization states by exciting the plasmonic photocurrents in two-dimensional electron systems.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

The future of high efficiency solar cells

Research approaches to obtain solar cell modules with 1 sun efficiencies of 20-30 percent at air mass 1 are now well understood. Such high efficiency modules should become available in the near future. It can be expected that these modules will be extensively used in terrestrial power generation, space power generation, and consumer electronics. To achieve practical module efficiencies significantly above 30 percent, it will be necessary to employ concepts other than spectral splitting, such as spectral compression and broad band detection. A major breakthrough in these areas is not anticipated at this time.

Fan, J. C. C.↗

Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Electronic Learning Tool for Volumetric Imaging Training—Perceptions of Radiation Therapy Professionals

Daily volumetric imaging through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has greatly impacted the roles and responsibilities of radiation therapists (RTTs). A CBCT eLearning module was developed at our cancer centre to equip RTTs with critical thinking skills and clinical judgement required in a CBCT guidance environment. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the electronic module and its impact on the learner's outcome from the perspectives of various radiation therapy professions and to assess the applicability of the eLearning module to RTTs, oncologists, and physicists.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗

Parallel momentum input by tangential neutral beam injections in stellarator and heliotron plasmas

The configuration dependence of parallel momentum inputs to target plasma particle species by tangentially injected neutral beams is investigated in non-axisymmetric stellarator/heliotron model magnetic fields by assuming the existence of magnetic flux-surfaces. In parallel friction integrals of the full Rosenbluth-MacDonald-Judd collision operator in thermal particles' kinetic equations, numerically obtained eigenfunctions are used for excluding trapped fast ions that cannot contribute to the friction integrals. It is found that the momentum inputs to thermal ions strongly depend on magnetic field strength modulations on the flux-surfaces, while the input to electrons is insensitive to the modulation. In future plasma flow studies requiring flow calculations of all particle species in more general non-symmetric toroidal configurations, the eigenfunction method investigated here will be useful.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

A Design of a Modular GPHS-Stirling Power System for a Lunar Habitation Module

Lunar habitation modules need electricity and potentially heat to operate. Because of the low amounts of radiation emitted by General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) modules, power plants incorporating these as heat sources could be placed in close proximity to habitation modules. A design concept is discussed for a high efficiency power plant based on a GPHS assembly integrated with a Stirling convertor. This system could provide both electrical power and heat, if required, for a lunar habitation module. The conceptual GPHS/Stirling system is modular in nature and made up of a basic 5.5 KWe Stirling convertor/GPHS module assembly, convertor controller/PMAD electronics, waste heat radiators, and associated thermal insulation. For the specific lunar application under investigation eight modules are employed to deliver 40 KWe to the habitation module. This design looks at three levels of Stirling convertor technology and addresses the issues of integrating the Stirling convertors with the GPHS heat sources assembly using proven technology whenever possible. In addition, issues related to the high-temperature heat transport system, power management, convertor control, vibration isolation, and potential system packaging configurations to ensure safe operation during all phases of deployment will be discussed.

Schmitz, Paul C.↗

Ultrafast photo-induced charge transfer of 1-naphthol and 2-naphthol to halocarbon solvents

Here we explore the fluorescence quenching of 1-naphthol and 2-naphthol in halocarbon solvents by using time-correlated single-photon-counting, femtosecond IR-spectroscopy and quantum chemistry computations. We find that halocarbon solvents facilitate a de-excitation mechanism via solute-solvent electron transfer. Decay rates are modulated by close contact interactions between the π-electronic structure of naphthols and halocarbon molecules in their first solvation shell. 1-naphthol exhibits faster decay rates than 2-naphthol due to closer interactions with the solvent.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Gate Tuning of Electronic Phase Transitions in Two-Dimensional NbSe 2

Recent experimental advances in atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) metals have unveiled a range of interesting phenomena including the coexistence of charge-density-wave (CDW) order and superconductivity down to the monolayer limit. The atomic thickness of two-dimensional (2D) TMD metals also opens up the possibility for control of these electronic phase transitions by electrostatic gating. We demonstrate reversible tuning of superconductivity and CDW order in model 2D TMD metal NbSe 2 by an ionic liquid gate. A variation up to ~ 50 % in the superconducting transition temperature has been observed. Both superconductivity and CDW order can be strengthened (weakened) by increasing (reducing) the carrier density in 2D NbSe 2 . The doping dependence of these phase transitions can be understood as driven by a varying electron-phonon coupling strength induced by the gate-modulated carrier density and the electronic density of states near the Fermi surface.

2-dimensional systems↗

Motion of an electron bunch through a plasma

In space research, pulse-modulated beams, or bunches, of energetic electrons have been used for tracing magnetic field lines and for remote sounding of magnetospheric electric fields. Doubts have been expressed regarding the possibility that an electron bunch would be able to travel through the plasma in space. However, experiments in the ionosphere have shown that, at least on some occasions, bunches of electrons with energies of a few keV have traveled over long distances with no apparent energy loss. The present study is concerned with the theoretical explanation for this phenomenon. The method employed in this study makes use of a direct numerical integration of the Vlasov equation. The results obtained provide the basis for a provisional conclusion concerning the stability of a moving electron bunch in the considered case. It appears that the system is mildly unstable.

Shoucri, M. M.↗

Evidence for Langmuir Envelope Solitons in Solar Type III Burst Source Regions

We present observational evidence for the generation of Langmuir envelope solitons in the source regions of solar type III radio bursts. The solitons appear to be formed by electron beams which excite either the modulational instability or oscillating two-stream instability (OTSI). Millisecond data from the Ulysses Unified Radio and Plasma Wave Experiment (URAP) show that Langmuir waves associated with type III bursts occur as broad intense peaks with time scales ranging from 15 to 90 milliseconds (6 - 27 km). These broad field structures have the properties expected of Langmuir envelope solitons, viz.: the normalized peak energy densities, W(sub L)/n(sub e)T(sub e) approximately 10(exp -5), are well above the modulational instability threshold; the spatial scales, L, which range from 1 - 5 Langmuir wavelengths, show a high degree of inverse correlation with (W(sub L)/n(sub e)T(sub e))(sup 1/2); and the observed widths of these broad peaks agree well with the predicted widths of envelope solitons. We show that the orientation of the Langmuir field structures is random with respect to the ambient magnetic field, indicating that they are probably isotropic structures that have evolved from initially pancake-like solitons. These observations suggest that strong turbulence processes, such as the modulational instability or the OTSI, stabilize the electron beams that produce type III bursts.

Thejappa, G.↗

Reimagining the $e_g$ 1 Electronic State in Oxygen Evolution Catalysis: Oxidation-State-Modulated Superlattices as a New Type of Heterostructure for Maximizing Catalysis

We report that the discovery of solid-phase, inexpensive transition-metal-based water oxidation catalysts is a central goal for renewable energy, and has led to a general consensus that a partially populated metal e g d-electronic state is desirable, leading to favorable catalysis for certain elements in specific oxidation states. In manganese systems, the key species is manganese(III), whose high-spin d 4 electronic configuration places an unpaired electron in the e g orbital, which is postulated to contribute to electronic and structural features that support catalysis. Based on density functional theory calculations, it is predicted that electron transfer would be facilitated by a catalyst with alternating low- and high-Mn III -content sheets, which positions neighboring band edges in closer energetic proximity. The preparation of such catalysts is demonstrated for the first time and it is shown that the catalytic activity is maximized in these systems over more uniform, but more Mn III -rich systems. The best catalyst possesses alternating high-and low-average oxidation state sheets with interlayer Cs + ions, and has an overpotential of 450 mV at 10 mA, which represents an improvement of 250 mV over the best unmodified synthetic potassium birnessites. Using scanning tunneling spectroscopy, bandgap modulations consistent with the theoretically predicted band edge shifts are detected.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Observation of multipath effects in the detection of RF-modulated x-rays

As part of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s ongoing research in particle accelerators and beams, we recently began investigating the interaction of RF-modulated x-ray beams with RF structures. Additionally, these bremsstrahlung x-rays, produced using an S-band RF electron linac and tungsten foil, were able to drive RF signals at the linac frequency and its integer harmonics in an S-band waveguide. This was interpreted as a result of secondary electron production inside the waveguide by the modulated x-ray beam and implied that the primary electron beam RF modulation was preserved, to at least some degree, through both the processes of x-ray and secondary electron production. The strength of these signals induced on the waveguide varied as the distance of the waveguide from the tungsten foil changed, with the nature of these changes suggesting the existence of an interference process resulting from multipath propagation of the modulated x-rays. Here, we report on our initial attempt to verify this multipath propagation by altering the configuration of shielding and reflective masses in the environment of the waveguide. Finally, these measurements support the existence of a multipath propagation effect and further indicate that the RF modulation of the x-rays is preserved as they undergo scattering events inside the accelerator vault.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗