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At least 1,621 records · Page 90

Atomistic observation of a crack tip approaching coherent twin boundaries

Coherent twin boundaries (CTBs) in nano-twinned materials could improve crack resistance. However, the role of the CTBs during crack penetration has never been explored at atomic scale. Our in situ observation on nano-twinned Ag under a high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) reveals the dynamic processes of a crack penetration across the CTBs, which involve alternated crack tip blunting, crack deflection, twinning/detwinning and slip transmission across the CTBs. The alternated blunting processes are related to the emission of different types of dislocations at the crack tip and vary with the distance of the crack tip from the CTBs.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Laser desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometry of ultraviolet photo-processed ices

A new ultra-high vacuum experiment is described that allows studying photo-induced chemical processes in interstellar ice analogues. MATRI²CES - a Mass Analytical Tool to study Reactions in Interstellar ICES applies a new concept by combining laser desorption and time-of-flight mass spectrometry with the ultimate goal to characterize in situ and in real time the solid state evolution of organic compounds upon UV photolysis for astronomically relevant ice mixtures and temperatures. The performance of the experimental setup is demonstrated by the kinetic analysis of the different photoproducts of pure methane (CH₄) ice at 20 K. A quantitative approach provides formation yields of several new species with up to four carbon atoms. Convincing evidence is found for the formation of even larger species. Typical mass resolutions obtained range from M/ΔM ~320 to ~400 for CH₄ and argon, respectively. Additional tests show that the typical detection limit (in monolayers) is ⩽0.02 ML, substantially more sensitive than the regular techniques used to investigate chemical processes in interstellar ices.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Breaking the limits of structural and mechanical imaging of the heterogeneous structure of coal macerals

The correlation between local mechanical (elasto-plastic) and structural (composition) properties of coal presents significant fundamental and practical interest for coal processing and the development of rheological models of coal to coke transformations and for advancing novel approaches. Here, we explore the relationship between the local structural, chemical composition and mechanical properties of coal using a combination of confocal micro-Raman imaging and band excitation atomic force acoustic microscopy (BE-AFAM) for a bituminous coal. This allows high resolution imaging (10s of nm) of mechanical properties of the heterogeneous (banded) architecture of coal and correlating them to the optical gap, average crystallite size, the bond-bending disorder of sp2 aromatic double bonds and the defect density. This methodology hence allows the structural and mechanical properties of coal components (lithotypes, microlithotypes, and macerals) to be understood, and related to local chemical structure, potentially allowing for knowledge-based modelling and optimization of coal utilization processes.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Photoelectron–residual-ion interaction in angle-resolved streaked shake-up ionization of helium

Streaked photoelectron emission spectra access the correlated dynamics of photoelectrons and residual target electrons with attosecond temporal resolution. Here, we calculated ab initio single-ionization spectra for photoemission from helium atoms by colinearly polarized ultrashort XUV and assisting few-femtosecond IR pulses. Distinguishing direct and shake-up ionization resulting in ground-state and excited (𝑛 = 2, 3) He + residual ions, respectively, we examined the effects of the correlated photoemission dynamics on the photoelectron phase accumulation as a function of the observable photoelectron detection direction and kinetic energy and XUV–IR pulse delay. We tracked the dynamical evolution of the residual ion in relative streaked photo- emission delays and found dominant contributions for shake-up emission from the residual-ion–photoelectron interaction. These are in very good and fair agreement, respectively, for 𝑛 = 2 and 𝑛 = 3 shake-up photoemission along the pulse-polarization directions, with previous experimental and theoretical investigations [Ossiander et al ., Nat. Phys. 13, 280 (2017)] and reveal a strong photoemission-direction dependence for shake-up ionization due to the coupling between the photoelectron and evolving residual-ion charge distribution in the IR-laser field.

Stark effect↗

Surface preparation method for investigating the three-dimensional electronic structure of perovskite nickelates

The investigation of the electronic structures on perovskite oxides using surface-sensitive spectroscopy techniques is often hindered by their “uncleavable” nature, typically requiring expensive and complex in situ experimental setups that integrate the capabilities of sample synthesis and spectroscopy measurement under ultrahigh vacuum condition. Here, we address this challenge by developing an ozone-annealing process that yields atomically flat surfaces on perovskite oxide thin films, making them suitable for high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements. Using this method, we present a three-dimensional electronic structure study of Nd 1−𝑥 ⁢Sr 𝑥 ⁢NiO 3 (𝑥=0 and 0.175) thin films with unprecedented accuracy. The experimentally determined low-energy fermiology exhibits quantitative agreements with two-band tight-binding simulations, which is further validated by first-principles calculations considering the material's actual crystal structure. This work provides an accessible approach for ex situ ARPES measurements on perovskite oxides and other strongly correlated oxides, including the recently discovered high-𝑇 c nickelates.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Time-resolving state-specific molecular dissociation with XUV broadband absorption spectroscopy

The electronic and nuclear dynamics inside molecules are essential for chemical reactions, where different pathways typically unfold on ultrafast timescales. Extreme ultraviolet (XUV) light pulses generated by free-electron lasers (FELs) allow atomic-site and electronic-state selectivity, triggering specific molecular dynamics while providing femtosecond resolution. Yet, time-resolved experiments are either blind to neutral fragments or limited by the spectral bandwidth of FEL pulses. Here, we combine a broadband XUV probe pulse from high-order harmonic generation with an FEL pump pulse to observe dissociation pathways leading to fragments in different quantum states. We temporally resolve the dissociation of a specific O 2 + state into two competing channels by measuring the resonances of ionic and neutral fragments. This scheme can be applied to investigate convoluted dynamics in larger molecules relevant to diverse science fields.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

A PROFILE ANALYSIS OF RAMAN-SCATTERED O VI BANDS AT 6825 Å AND 7082 Å IN SANDULEAK’S STAR

We present a detailed modeling of the two broad bands observed at 6825 and 7082 Å in Sanduleak’s star, a controversial object in the Large Magellanic Cloud. These bands are known to originate from Raman scattering of O vi λ λ 1032 and 1038 photons with atomic hydrogen and are only observed in bona fide symbiotic stars. Our high-resolution spectrum obtained with the Magellan Inamori Kyocera Echelle spectrograph at the Magellan-Clay Telescope reveals, quite surprisingly, that the profiles of the two bands look very different: while the Raman 6825 Å band shows a single broad profile with a redward extended bump, the Raman 7082 Å band exhibits a distinct triple-peak profile. Our model suggests that the O vi emission nebula can be decomposed into a red, blue, and central emission region from an accretion disk, a bipolar outflow, and a further compact, optically thick region. We also perform Monte Carlo simulations with the aim of fitting the observed flux ratio F (6825)/ F (7082) ∼ 4.5, which indicates that the neutral region in Sanduleak’s star is characterized by the column density N{sub Hi} ∼ 1 × 10{sup 23} cm{sup −2}.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Medium resolution stellar spectra in the two-micron region

The astrophysical implications of available medium resolution spectra in the limited wavelength range from 1.9 to 2.5 microns are considered. Observational techniques are discussed along with features observable at medium resolution. Attention is given to molecular bands of carbon monoxide, water, and cyanogen. Identified atomic features are related to hydrogen, helium, silicon, magnesium, and titanium. Empirical band strength-color relationships are examined, taking into account carbon monoxide in G5-M8 giants and supergiants, the isotopic C-12/C-13 abundance ratio, and water vapor band strengths in late-type stars.

Hyland, A. R.↗

The spectrum of the Becklin-Neugebauer source in Orion from 3.3 to 5.5 microns

Spectra of the Becklin-Neugebauer source in Orion and the associated nebula are presented covering the complete range from 3.3-5.5 microns with a resolution of 1.2 kaysers. The data were taken in December 1976 and February 1978. Atomic hydrogen emission lines of Brackett-alpha and Pfund-beta are seen, as well as molecular CO absorptions. No other features intrinsic to BN were detected. The December 1976 data show an anomalously high intensity for Pfund-beta line. Theoretical considerations are presented which suggest that Pfund-beta radiation arises in a small dense region, with the transition possibly lasing.

Smith, H. A.↗

Development and applications of optical interferometric micrometrology in the Angstrom and subangstrom range

The characteristics of the scanning tunneling microscope and atomic force microscope (AFM) are briefly reviewed, and optical methods, mainly interferometry, of sufficient resolution to measure AFM deflections are discussed. The methods include optical resonators, laser interferometry, multiple-beam interferometry, and evanescent wave detection. Experimental results using AFM are reviewed.

Lauer, James L.↗

The submillimeter wave astronomy satellite

The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) selected for flight as part of the Small Explorer Program is described. SWAS consists of a 55 by 71 cm near optical quality off axis primary mirror, two heteorodyne radiometers with Schottky barrier diode mixers, and a single broadband (1.4 GHz) Acousto Optical Spectrometer (AOS). SWAS primary objective is to conduct a high spectral resolution survey of galactic molecular clouds in low lying transitions of water, molecular oxygen, atomic carbon and isotopic carbon monoxide. These species are crucial in gaining a better understanding of the chemistry and cooling of dense molecular clouds.

Melnick, Gary J.↗

Diode Laser Velocity Measurements by Modulated Filtered Rayleigh Scattering

The ability of solid-state lasers to be tuned in operating frequency at MHz rates by input current modulation, while maintaining a relatively narrow line-width, has made them useful for spectroscopic measurements. Their other advantages include low cost, reliability, durability, compact size, and modest power requirements, making them a good choice for a laser source in micro-gravity experiments in drop-towers and in flight. For their size, they are also very bright. In a filtered Rayleigh scattering (FRS) experiment, a diode laser can be used to scan across an atomic or molecular absorption line, generating large changes in transmission at the resonances for very small changes in frequency. The hyperfine structure components of atomic lines of alkali metal vapors are closely spaced and very strong, which makes such atomic filters excellent candidates for sensitive Doppler shift detection and therefore for high-resolution velocimetry. In the work we describe here we use a Rubidium vapor filter, and work with the strong D(sub 2) transitions at 780 nm that are conveniently accessed by near infrared diode lasers. The low power output of infrared laser diodes is their primary drawback relative to other laser systems commonly used for velocimetry. However, the capability to modulate the laser frequency rapidly and continuously helps mitigate this. Using modulation spectroscopy and a heterodyne detection scheme with a lock-in amplifier, one can extract sub-microvolt signals occurring at a specific frequency from a background that is orders of magnitude stronger. The diode laser modulation is simply achieved by adding a small current modulation to the laser bias current. It may also be swept repetitively in wavelength using an additional lower frequency current ramp.

Mach, J. J.↗

Investigation of the Distribution of Fission Products Silver, Palladium and Cadmium in Neutron Irradiated SIC using a Cs Corrected HRTEM

Electron microscopy examinations of selected coated particles from the first advanced gas reactor experiment (AGR-1) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) provided important information on fission product distribution and chemical composition. Furthermore, recent research using STEM analysis led to the discovery of Ag at SiC grain boundaries and triple junctions. As these Ag precipitates were nano-sized, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) examination was used to provide more information at the atomic level. This paper describes some of the first HRTEM results obtained by examining a particle from Compact 4-1-1, which was irradiated to an average burnup of 19.26% fissions per initial metal atom (FIMA), a time average, volume-averaged temperature of 1072°C; a time average, peak temperature of 1182°C and an average fast fluence of 4.13 x 1021 n/cm2. Based on gamma analysis, it is estimated that this particle may have released as much as 10% of its available Ag-110m inventory during irradiation. The HRTEM investigation focused on Ag, Pd, Cd and U due to the interest in Ag transport mechanisms and possible correlation with Pd, Ag and U previously found. Additionally, Compact 4-1-1 contains fuel particles fabricated with a different fuel carrier gas composition and lower deposition temperatures for the SiC layer relative to the Baseline fabrication conditions, which are expected to reduce the concentration of SiC defects resulting from uranium dispersion. Pd, Ag, and Cd were found to co-exist in some of the SiC grain boundaries and triple junctions whilst U was found to be present in the micron-sized precipitates as well as separately in selected areas at grain boundaries. This study confirmed the presence of Pd both at inter- and intragranular positions; in the latter case specifically at stacking faults. Small Pd nodules were observed at a distance of about 6.5 micron from the inner PyC/SiC interface.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

Examination Of IASCC In 304 Stainless Steel Core Shroud From A Commercial Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)

The 304 stainless steel core shroud and the accompanying weld material from a commercial boiling-water reactor (BWR) experienced an estimated dose of ~3.5 dpa neutron irradiation leading to irradiation-assisted stress corrosion cracking (IASCC). The resulting IASCC crack tips are examined with high-resolution analysis techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and atom probe tomography (APT), with select examples of directly correlated STEM/APT observations. Analytical observations reveal the crack morphology, composition, microstructure, and any associated corrosion-induced or radiation-induced segregation in the local metal grain boundaries ahead of the propagating SCC cracks. The observed oxide composition and structure were in-line with expectations, consisting of a Cr-rich inner oxide and a Fe-rich outer oxide, with the leading crack tip oxide being Cr-rich. In addition, the leading grain boundary exhibited typical radiation-induced segregation signatures that were largely unperturbed by the accompanying corrosion. Finally, the quantitative capabilities and limitations of STEM and APT in the context of corrosion fronts and grain boundary chemistry from the directly correlated measurements are discussed.

Olszta, Matthew J.↗

Atomic dynamics of electrified solid–liquid interfaces in liquid-cell TEM

Electrified solid–liquid interfaces (ESLIs) play a key role in various electrochemical processes relevant to energy, biology and geochemistry. The electron and mass transport at the electrified interfaces may result in structural modifications that markedly influence the reaction pathways. For example, electrocatalyst surface restructuring during reactions can substantially affect the catalysis mechanisms and reaction products. Despite its importance, direct probing the atomic dynamics of solid–liquid interfaces under electric biasing is challenging owing to the nature of being buried in liquid electrolytes and the limited spatial resolution of current techniques for in situ imaging through liquids. Here, with our development of advanced polymer electrochemical liquid cells for transmission electron microscopy (TEM), we are able to directly monitor the atomic dynamics of ESLIs during copper (Cu)-catalysed CO 2 electroreduction reactions (CO 2 ERs). Our observation reveals a fluctuating liquid-like amorphous interphase. It undergoes reversible crystalline–amorphous structural transformations and flows along the electrified Cu surface, thus mediating the crystalline Cu surface restructuring and mass loss through the interphase layer. Furthermore, the combination of real-time observation and theoretical calculations unveils an amorphization-mediated restructuring mechanism resulting from charge-activated surface reactions with the electrolyte. Our results open many opportunities to explore the atomic dynamics and its impact in broad systems involving ESLIs by taking advantage of the in situ imaging capability.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Spectroscopic Observation of the Stardust Re-Entry in the Near UV with SLIT: Deduction of Surface Temperatures and Plasma Radiation

Thermal radiation of the heat-shield and the emission of the post-shock layer around the Stardust capsule, during its re-entry, were detected by a NASA-led observation campaign aboard NASA's DC-8 airborne observatory involving teams from several nations. The German SLIT experiment used a conventional spectrometer, in a Czerny-Turner configuration (300 mm focal length and a 600 lines/mm grating), fed by fiber optics, to cover a wavelength range from 324 nm to 456 nm with a pixel resolution of 0.08 nm. The reentering spacecraft was tracked m uansuinaglly a camera with a view angle of 20 degrees, and light from the capsule was collected using a small mirror telescope with a view angle of only 0.45 degrees. Data were gathered with a measurement frequency of 5 Hz in a 30-second time interval around the point of maximum heating until the capsule left the field of view. The emission of CN (as a major ablation product), N2(+) and different atoms were monitored successfully during that time. Due to the nature of the experimental set up, spatial resolution of the radiation field was not possible. Therefore, all measured values represent an integration of radiation from the visible part of the glowing heat shield, and from the plasma in the post-shock region. Further, due to challenges in tracking not every spectrum gathered contained data. The measured spectra can be split up into two parts: (i) continuum spectra which represent a superposition of the heat shield radiation and the continuum radiation of potential dust particles in the plasma, and (ii) line spectra from the plasma in the shock layer. Planck temperatures (interpreted as the surface temperatures of the Stardust heat shield) were determined assuming either a constant surface temperature, or a temperature distribution deduced from numerical simulation. The constant surface temperatures are in good agreement with numerical simulations, but the peak values at the stagnation point are significantly lower than those in the numerical simulation if a temperature distribution over the surface is assumed. Emission bands of CN and N2(+) were tracked along the visible trajectory and compared to a spectral simulation with satisfying agreement. Values for the integrated radiation of the transitions of interest for these species were extracted from this comparison.

Winter, Michael W.↗

The early ultraviolet spectral evolution of Nova Cygni 1992

We report on the high resolution ultraviolet line profile evolution of Nova Cygni 1992 using the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) satellite and the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph (GHRS) on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Our observations cover the period from discovery in 1992 February through 1993 April. The initial expansion velocity, derived from P Cyg profiles on Mg II and other resonance lines, was about 4500 km/s. All resonance transitions displayed P Cyg profiles around the time of UV maximum. We first discuss the spectral development as the initially optically thick atomic absorption curtain became optically thin. We then present the interpretation of the nebular spectral stage. The high resolution line profiles show that the shell rapidly developed nearly symmetric knots, or filaments, of emission. The optically thin transitions show an emission weighted expansion velocity of about 1800 km/s, consistent with the velocity inferred from the radio and infrared data. The emission lines display a symmetric set of filaments that appeared as soon as the line profiles became optically thin. The GHRS observations demonstrate that the filaments were located in the inner, slower moving parts of the ejecta. These probably record an initial low wave number instability imposed on the ejecta at the time of outburst. We suggest that the likely cause is a Rayleigh-Taylor instability. The emission at later stages is dominated by the filaments and, since this phenomenon is seen in virtually all novae, nebular line formation codes will have to account for the density inhomgeneities in order to adequately determine abundances for nove ejecta.

Shore, Steven N.↗