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Abstract We report a solution-based approach for the synthesis of oxidation-free MoS2 films, focusing on interface analysis. Through a sulfurization-free solution process and single-step annealing, the oxidation-free MoS2 film is successfully prepared on Si3N4 surfaces, showing improved uniformity with a surface roughness below 0.5 nm and a thickness of 4 nm at a precursor solution concentration of 30 mM, annealed between 700 and 800ºC. The MoS2 films exhibit a hexagonal lattice structure with crystallographic orientations of (1 1 0 0) and (1 2 1 0) with lattice spacings of 0.27 nm and 0.16 nm respectively. Interfacial analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) on SiO2 reveals migration of oxygen species as evidenced by a shift in the Si 2p spectrum at binding energies between 102.6 eV and 102.8 eV. MoS2 films on Si3N4 show a complex Si 2p peak evolution at binding energies between 100.9 and 101.8 eV, providing valuable insights into the synthesis of oxide-free MoS2 films for potential applications in advanced electronic devices.

In this article I analyse websites in the public domain which represent children deemed eligible for adoption into families in the United States. These websites consist of photographs of children accompanied by details about their lives, health and personalities. Using critical technocultural discourse analysis, I outline three different ways in which children are classified in these digital spaces. I argue that it is through a combination of textual and photographic representation, as well as platform and interface design, that ideologies related to racial identity and nationality intersect to create a hierarchical system, which differentially classifies these children. I explain the significance of these classificatory schemes by drawing on decolonial thought and critical race theory. Ultimately, I argue that discourses and interfaces work together to reproduce, intensify and reify an intersectionally oppressive system of structural inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a solution-based approach for the synthesis of oxidation-free MoS2 films, focusing on interface analysis. Through a sulfurization-free solution process and single-step annealing, the oxidation-free MoS2 film is successfully prepared on Si3N4 surfaces, showing improved uniformity with a surface roughness below 0.5 nm and a thickness of 4 nm at a precursor solution concentration of 30 mM, annealed between 700 and 800ºC. The MoS2 films exhibit a hexagonal lattice structure with crystallographic orientations of (1 1 0 0) and (1 2 1 0) with lattice spacings of 0.27 nm and 0.16 nm respectively. Interfacial analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) on SiO2 reveals migration of oxygen species as evidenced by a shift in the Si 2p spectrum at binding energies between 102.6 eV and 102.8 eV. MoS2 films on Si3N4 show a complex Si 2p peak evolution at binding energies between 100.9 and 101.8 eV, providing valuable insights into the synthesis of oxide-free MoS2 films for potential applications in advanced electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, pretreatment with vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) light changed the adhesion strength between an epoxy resin and directly sputtered copper in a printed circuit board manufacturing process. The adhesion strength was 0.9 N/cm without irradiation but had a peak value of 2.1 N/cm at 540 mJ/cm2 of VUV irradiation; with increasing VUV irradiation, the adhesion strength decreased. Based on x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of the copper interface of copper peeled from the resin, we evaluated the abundance ratio of metallic and organic oxygen at interfaces exposed to different VUV irradiation doses. We found that the change in the abundance ratio of metallic and organic oxygen was similar to the change in adhesion strength between copper and epoxy resin after exposure to different VUV irradiation doses. We observed the interface between copper and resin via scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and found a distributed layer of oxygen. The functional group concentration in STEM images suggested the presence of a material with an intermediate density. We used chemically modified XPS to evaluate changes in the functional group concentration on epoxy resin surfaces irradiated with VUV light. We found that the hydroxyl group (OH) formed by VUV irradiation and the copper formed by direct sputtering improved adhesion strength in a synergistic manner. We observed a correlation between OH concentration on the resin surface and adhesion strength. These results will help to optimize the VUV irradiation process for adhesion between epoxy resin and sputtered copper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) is activated by the binding of one of seven EGF‐like ligands to its ectodomain. Ligand binding results in EGFR dimerization and stabilization of the active receptor conformation subsequently leading to activation of downstream signaling. Aberrant activation of EGFR contributes to cancer progression through EGFR overexpression/amplification, modulation of its positive and negative regulators, and/or activating mutations within EGFR. EGFR targeted therapeutic antibodies prevent dimerization and interaction with endogenous ligands by binding the ectodomain of EGFR. However, these antibodies have had limited success in the clinic, partially due to EGFR ectodomain resistance mutations, and are only applicable to a subset of patients with EGFR‐driven cancers. These limitations suggest that alternative EGFR targeted biologics need to be explored for EGFR‐driven cancer therapy. To this end, we analyze the EGFR interfaces of known inhibitory biologics with determined structures in the context of endogenous ligands, using the Rosetta macromolecular modeling software to highlight the most important interactions on a per‐residue basis. We use this analysis to identify the structural determinants of EGFR targeted biologics. We suggest that commonly observed binding motifs serve as the basis for rational design of new EGFR targeted biologics, such as peptides, antibodies, and nanobodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel design of self-adhesive basalt fiber mesh geotextile, aiming to significantly enhance the crack resistance of asphalt pavements. Reflective cracks from environmental and traffic stresses in traditional semi-rigid asphalt pavements, compounded by current geotextiles' mechanical and adhesion limitations, reduce service life. This study explores the mechanical properties, adhesion to asphalt, and resistance to simulated cracking of self-adhesive basalt fiber mesh geotextiles within pavement structures. This is accomplished through a series of mechanical tests, interfacial adhesion tests, and advanced characterization using Digital Image Correlation. The results indicate that the distinctive pore structure of basalt fiber mesh geotextiles introduces an embedded interlocking reinforcement effect, which significantly enhances the strength of the composite geotextile. The SAM-160M specimen demonstrates a maximum tensile strength of 3.599 kN, surpassing that of the plain fabric specimen by over 34%. The twisted weaving process of the mesh fabric improves adhesion to asphalt by 14.54% compared to plain fabric, thereby enhancing the performance of the pavement structure's interlayer and its resistance to cracking. The mesh fabric excels at dispersing concentrated stresses, enhancing weak interface zones, and increasing the structural capacity and longevity of pavements. These improvements support sustainable road construction with broad engineering applications. • Developed self-adhesive composite geotextiles using basalt fiber mesh and modified asphalt. • Demonstrated the enhanced crack resistance of innovative geotextiles in pavement structures. • Identified the embedding locking effect of mesh cloth that improves tensile strength. • Showcased a reduction in raw material consumption and maintenance costs with new geotextiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global proliferation of internet-distributed video-on-demand (VOD) services has left in its wake a rich but scattered corpus of research into the catalogs and interfaces of these services. Using empirical methods and sources including scraping, observation, digital simulations, and third-party datasets, researchers have found many ways to study VODs, their content, and their recommendations. Our article provides a critical review of this research landscape. We describe the evolution of two key methods: catalog analysis and interface analysis. We then explain how these methods intersect with each other and also with audience research. Throughout, we assess the value and limitations of various methods, showing how they fit within a wider research landscape that involves multiple 'ways of knowing' VOD. The practicalities and politics of access to VOD data are considered throughout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of Si anode in sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) has gained more research attention in recent years to overcome the interface challenges associated with ASSB‐containing Li metal anode. However, the volume expansion feature of the Si, stress/strain evolution inside the electrode, and the parasitic side reaction at the Si/sulfide SE interface are the most predominant limiting factors for practical device applications. It is necessary to investigate and understand the interface challenges through in‐depth analysis in real‐time battery operation to design highly efficient ASSBs for commercial device applications. Hence, this perspective paper provides a summary of the characterization tools and the analysis results related to the Si/sulfide SE interface. Moreover, in this perspective, we emphasize the importance of further investigation of the interface through more advanced in‐depth/operando analysis tools to gain insightful information about the anodic interface, which could be useful for the researchers to design efficient research strategies for solving the challenging issues associated with the anodic interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The utilization of Si anode in sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) has gained more research attention in recent years to overcome the interface challenges associated with ASSB‐containing Li metal anode. However, the volume expansion feature of the Si, stress/strain evolution inside the electrode, and the parasitic side reaction at the Si/sulfide SE interface are the most predominant limiting factors for practical device applications. It is necessary to investigate and understand the interface challenges through in‐depth analysis in real‐time battery operation to design highly efficient ASSBs for commercial device applications. Hence, this perspective paper provides a summary of the characterization tools and the analysis results related to the Si/sulfide SE interface. Moreover, in this perspective, we emphasize the importance of further investigation of the interface through more advanced in‐depth/operando analysis tools to gain insightful information about the anodic interface, which could be useful for the researchers to design efficient research strategies for solving the challenging issues associated with the anodic interface.

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have been attracting attention as the next generation batteries, but they face challenges, including internal resistance at the solid electrolyte/electrode interface. This study examines a LiPON/LiCoO2 interface using multi-technique X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze chemical states and energy band diagrams. Results show that interlayer formation and structural changes during manufacturing stimulate Co reduction in the LiCoO2 layer near the interface, leading to an increase in interfacial impedance. To minimize internal resistance, preventing Co reduction is necessary. The study offers insights into the chemical interactions between LiPON and LiCoO2 layers, which may help address challenges in ASSBs commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most common load modes is flexure. The paper measures and models the flexural strength and modulus of a bio-polyethylene reinforced with thermos-mechanical fibers from corn stover. Moreover, the authors use modified rules of mixtures to evaluate the contribution of the reinforcements to the properties of the composite. It was found a high impact of coupling agent content on the strength of the composites, and materials with a 6% of such agent and 50% of reinforcement increased 181% the strength of the matrix, and 464% its modulus. The obtained values are noticeable higher than polypropylene and some of its composites. Micromechanics analysis shows that the effect of natural fiber reinforcement on the flexural properties of a bio-based PE is similar to the effects on a polyolefin. Thus, the use of fully bio-based composites can be proposed as a substitute for some oil-based polymers, partially bio-based materials, and their composites.

Molybdenum–copper composites were developed as heat sink materials. In order to reduce the amount of molybdenum used in the composite material, the explosive welding of molybdenum foil to copper plate was studied. Through the analysis of microstructure and elements, ideas for the processing of molybdenum–copper heat sink materials were proposed. The embrittlement of the molybdenum foil could be reduced by using salt as protective layer. The thickness increase in explosive in the weldability window results in more molybdenum melting, which reduces the generation of microcracks in return. The welding strength in the wave waist is lower than that in the wave front, and the thermal stress exceeding the strength limit of the molybdenum foil may be the important reason for the formation of microcracks. Delamination cracks in the isotherm direction and interface cracks in the joint direction can be observed. Methods of reducing temperature gradients such as thermal explosive welding can reduce the occurrence of microcracks. From outside the vortex to the center of the vortex, the copper content gradually decreases, while the molybdenum content gradually increases. The formation of the vortex is mainly dependent on the movement of copper. The molybdenum element in the transition layer is mainly introduced by diffusion process. The melting of molybdenum particles will lead to uneven quality distribution of molybdenum in the vortex. Compared with the copper side, the molybdenum side at the same distance from interface has a higher work hardening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-rich layered oxides are attractive cathode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high energy density. However, their large-scale application is seriously hindered by their interfacial instability, especially at a high cut-off potential. Here, we demonstrate that trimethoxyboroxine (TMOBX) is an effective film-forming additive to address the interfacial instability of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) material at a high cut-off voltage of 4.5 ​V. We find that TMOBX decomposes before carbonate solvent and forms a thin cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) layer on the surface of the NCM811 material. This TMOBX-formed CEI significantly suppresses electrolyte decomposition at a high potential and inhibits the dissolution of transition metals from NCM811 during cycling. In addition, electron-deficient borate compounds coordinate with anions (PF6−, F−, etc.) and H2O in the battery, further improving the battery's stability. As a result, adding 1.0 ​wt% of TMOBX boosts the capacity retention of a Li||NCM811 ​cell from 68.72% to 86.60% after 200 cycles at 0.5C in the range of 2.8–4.5 ​V.

This paper presents a type of prefabricated concrete wall panel building system with novel flexible alveolar-type joints, which has the advantages of fast assembly and controllable quality. Seven alveolar-type joint specimens were designed and fabricated to investigate the influence of the axial compression ratio, the size of the joint (in the interface contact area), and the strength of the mortar on the joints' performance. The shear–slip constitutive model of the alveolar-type joints was established on this basis. The accuracy of the constitutive model was verified by comparing two full-scale loading tests with the exact finite element analysis model of ABAQUS. A finite element model of a multi-story apartment building was established by using the aforementioned shear–slip constitutive model; thus, the simplified analysis method for the prefabricated concrete wall panel building structure with alveolar-type joints was proposed. It was concluded that increasing the axial compression ratio, mortar strength, and size of the joints could increase the shear-bearing capacity by different degrees and that the 50 mm depth joint could increase the capacity by 18.6%. The proposed shear–slip constitutive model simulated the interface mechanism well by comparing the test results. Furthermore, the simplified analytical methods of the integral structure were in good agreement with the FEA results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Educación en Ingeniería is the property of Asociacion Colombiana de Facultades de Ingenieria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

[Display omitted] • Sandblasting pretreatment can effectively remove the adhesive covering the surface of OSB to improve bonding. • The dry bonding shear strength of OSB and Chinese fir was increased by 53 %, 39 %, and 37 % for PRF, PUR, and EPI, respectively. • Delamination rates were reduced to about a half with the original. The investigation was conducted into the adhesive performance within hybrid cross-laminated timber (HCLT) composed of sandblasted Chinese fir and oriented strand board (OSB) which was originally covered by cured adhesive during the manufacture leading to very fragile bonding. HCLT specimens with three layers were bonded utilizing three structural adhesives which were polyresorcinol formaldehyde (PRF), polyurethane (PUR), and polyisocyanate (EPI). Surface roughness and wettability testing ascertained that sandblasting could effectively change the original resin layer and microtopography on the surface of OSB laminates, significantly modified the level of roughness on the surface, thereby providing a basis for vertical spreading and permeating of the adhesives. Sandblasting pretreatment consistently augmented the dry bonding shear strength about all the three adhesives, achieving the most substantial increases of 53 %, 39 %, and 37 % for PRF, PUR, and EPI, respectively. The pretreatment further reducing delamination rates to about a half in cyclic delamination tests of all three adhesives. Fluorescence microscopy detection of the bonding interfaces revealed a significant increase in adhesive penetration depth which had been further confirmed by the bonding interface thickness measurement. Surface roughness generally had a negative effect on dry shear bonding strength, especially with EPI adhesive, while surface wettability was positively correlated with bonding strength and adhesive layer thickness. This study introduced an environmental and efficient method to enhance the bonding performance of HCLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Electroplating & Finishing is the property of Electroplating & Finishing Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

[Display omitted] • The Si-on-W interface between the two thin-films was measured by LEIS, XRR, and TEM. • Comparison of the characterization techniques is made possible by a standard quantification approach. • The sensitivity of LEIS and XRR measurements of thin-film interfaces is investigated. • The sub-atomic effect of the thickness of the W film on the Si-on-W interface is quantified. • A structure with 20 nm W has a sharper Si-on-W interface than a structure with 4 nm W. W/Si thin-film multilayer structures are used in various applications such as X-ray, neutron, and extreme ultraviolet optics. The interfaces between the films play such a fundamental role in the performance of these structures that a sub-nanometer and non-destructive characterization of such interfaces is necessary, albeit challenging. In this study, we investigate the interface Si-on-W and the effect of W thickness on such an interface using low energy ion scattering (LEIS), X-ray reflectivity (XRR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We extract the Si-to-W error-function-like compositional change to quantitatively compare the effective interface width measured by the different techniques. We demonstrate that, in the case of Si-on-W, the effective interface width measured by LEIS and XRR agrees with the values extracted from TEM analysis within a 0.1 nm error margin. Noting that TEM is a destructive method, these results exemplify the value of LEIS and XRR as analysis techniques for resolving thin film interfaces. Surprisingly, all techniques employed in the study show that a structure with 20 nm of W has a sharper Si-on-W interface compared to a structure with 4 nm of W, which we interpret as the effect of both the correlated roughness from the substrate − present in the case of 4 nm W − and the larger crystals − present in the W film in the case of 20 nm W- resulting in less intermixing. This directly shows the value of extracting exact interface widths for the analysis and understanding of thin film growth in multilayer systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present a structural investigation of sub-monolayer films of germanium on Ag(1 1 0) by means of photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and diffraction (XPD), as well as low-energy electron diffraction (LEED). Since the rising progress in the synthesis of various kinds of nanoribbons, also germanium nanoribbons (Ge-NR) have been synthesized on Ag(1 1 0), recently. Here, we focus on their structural evolution and found the formation of two different phases of germanium at coverages of 0.5 ML and 0.7 ML , differing fundamentally from predicted nanoribbon structures. By means of LEED measurements, we obtained evidence for germanium superstructures which are not aligned along the [ 1 ¯ 1 0 ] -direction, as expected for nanoribbon growth. Using synchrotron-based high-resolution XPS and XPD experiments of the Ge 3d and Ag 3d core-levels, we resolved the local chemical and atomic order of the germanium films. Thus, the strong internal bonding of the buckled germanium film and a weak Van-der-Waals interaction between silver and germanium were discovered. Moreover, XPD-simulations delivered a detailed model of the structural arrangement of the preliminary nanoribbon phase, which also provided an approach to identify the origin of the two chemically shifted components in the Ge 3d signal by applying a component-wise decomposition of the XPD data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characterization of membrane properties represents an essential step towards the understanding and prediction of membrane filtration performance. Herein, surface properties of commercial polymeric membranes were investigated in terms of surface charge and wetting characteristics. Streaming potential measurements showed that the studied membranes (NF270, NF90, BW30LE and BW30) were negatively charged in electrolytic solutions at neutral pH which is related to the polymeric composition of the active layer. Contact angle measurements were performed to evaluate qualitatively the wettability/hydrophilicity of the membranes and quantitatively by evaluating electron donor and acceptor functionalities and interfacial free energies of each membrane surface. NF270 was the most hydrophilic membrane with a high wettability degree (θ = 33.2°, –ΔGSw = 133.55 mJ/m²), Furthermore, the wettability parameters were correlated to membrane permeability, in order to better understand the wetting/hydrophilic behavior. This study on the electrical and wettability properties are of importance to select the appropriate membrane prior operation where the performance is related to the surface characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Properly scoring protein-protein docking models to single out the correct ones is an open challenge, also object of assessment in CAPRI (Critical Assessment of PRedicted Interactions), a community-wide blind docking experiment. We introduced in the field CONSRANK (CONSensus RANKing), the first pure consensus method. Also available as a web server, CONSRANK ranks docking models in an ensemble based on their ability to match the most frequent inter-residue contacts in it. We have been blindly testing CONSRANK in all the latest CAPRI rounds, where we showed it to perform competitively with the state-of-the-art energy and knowledge-based scoring functions. More recently, we developed Clust-CONSRANK, an algorithm introducing a contact-based clustering of the models as a preliminary step of the CONSRANK scoring process. In the latest CASP13-CAPRI joint experiment, we participated as scorers with a novel pipeline, combining both our scoring tools, CONSRANK and Clust-CONSRANK, with our interface analysis tool COCOMAPS. Selection of the 10 models for submission was guided by the strength of the emerging consensus, and their final ranking was assisted by results of the interface analysis. Results As a result of the above approach, we were by far the first scorer in the CASP13-CAPRI top-1 ranking, having high/medium quality models ranked at the top-1 position for the majority of targets (11 out of the total 19). We were also the first scorer in the top-10 ranking, on a par with another group, and the second scorer in the top-5 ranking. Further, we topped the ranking relative to the prediction of binding interfaces, among all the scorers and predictors. Using the CASP13-CAPRI targets as case studies, we illustrate here in detail the approach we adopted. Conclusions Introducing some flexibility in the final model selection and ranking, as well as differentiating the adopted scoring approach depending on the targets were the key assets for our highly successful performance, as compared to previous CAPRI rounds. The approach we propose is entirely based on methods made available to the community and could thus be reproduced by any user.

This paper presents a type of prefabricated concrete wall panel building system with novel flexible alveolar-type joints, which has the advantages of fast assembly and controllable quality. Seven alveolar-type joint specimens were designed and fabricated to investigate the influence of the axial compression ratio, the size of the joint (in the interface contact area), and the strength of the mortar on the joints’ performance. The shear–slip constitutive model of the alveolar-type joints was established on this basis. The accuracy of the constitutive model was verified by comparing two full-scale loading tests with the exact finite element analysis model of ABAQUS. A finite element model of a multi-story apartment building was established by using the aforementioned shear–slip constitutive model; thus, the simplified analysis method for the prefabricated concrete wall panel building structure with alveolar-type joints was proposed. It was concluded that increasing the axial compression ratio, mortar strength, and size of the joints could increase the shear-bearing capacity by different degrees and that the 50 mm depth joint could increase the capacity by 18.6%. The proposed shear–slip constitutive model simulated the interface mechanism well by comparing the test results. Furthermore, the simplified analytical methods of the integral structure were in good agreement with the FEA results.

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) is activated by the binding of one of seven EGF-like ligands to its ectodomain. Ligand binding results in EGFR dimerization and stabilization of the active receptor conformation subsequently leading to activation of downstream signaling. Aberrant activation of EGFR contributes to cancer progression through EGFR overexpression/amplification, modulation of its positive and negative regulators, and/or activating mutations within EGFR. EGFR targeted therapeutic antibodies prevent dimerization and interaction with endogenous ligands by binding the ectodomain of EGFR. However, these antibodies have had limited success in the clinic, partially due to EGFR ectodomain resistance mutations, and are only applicable to a subset of patients with EGFR-driven cancers. These limitations suggest that alternative EGFR targeted biologics need to be explored for EGFR-driven cancer therapy. To this end, we analyze the EGFR interfaces of known inhibitory biologics with determined structures in the context of endogenous ligands, using the Rosetta macromolecular modeling software to highlight the most important interactions on a per-residue basis. We use this analysis to identify the structural determinants of EGFR targeted biologics. We suggest that commonly observed binding motifs serve as the basis for rational design of new EGFR targeted biologics, such as peptides, antibodies, and nanobodies., (© 2024 The Author(s). Protein Science published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of The Protein Society.)

This paper proposes a framework using a community maturity level metric to determine the integration readiness of interface elements in a particular network cluster. As a proof of concept this methodology is applied to an aircraft seating system to assess the readiness of complex interfaces before proceeding to full‐scale production and systems integration. A multi‐objective genetic algorithm, MOGA‐Net, is coupled with the Newman‐Girvan modularity metric as a clustering algorithm. This algorithm identifies system elements grouped by common interfaces, referred to as community clusters. The TRL and IRL values for these elements is then used to calculate an overall community maturity level. The achieved performance in these clusters is then compared to the target performance to determine overall maturity of the interfaces. This is compared to other system readiness metrics and interface readiness metrics as applied to the aircraft seating system and was found to be more consistent with subject matter expert evaluations during the critical design review. This gives a better representation of the true readiness of system interfaces before entering design reviews to reduce overall integration risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interfacial properties of composite materials play an important role in overall efficiency and reliability of these materials in structural applications. The objective of this study is to develop a multiple fiber microbond pull-out test to determine the interfacial properties of self-reinforced polymer composites (SRPC) and compare it with single fiber multiple fiber pull-out tests. SRPC possess better interfacial adhesion due to their similarity in chemical structure. The system used in this study is LDPE sheet reinforced with plain weave ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (LDPE/ UHMWPE). The optimal operating temperature was estimated with DSC and TGA analysis. The micromechanical and meso-mechanical approaches were compared to validate the results. A fractographic study was performed to correlate lamina and meso-mechanical properties found in this study. It was observed that the multiple fiber pullout test explained in this study is on par with or better than the other conventional methods to evaluate interface properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High density and high semiconducting-purity single-walled carbon nanotube array (A-CNT) have recently been demonstrated as promising candidates for high-performance nanoelectronics. Knowledge of the structures and arrangement of CNTs within the arrays and their interfaces to neighboring CNTs, metal contacts, and dielectrics, as the key components of an A-CNT field effect transistor (FET), is essential for device mechanistic understanding and further optimization, particularly considering that the current technologies for the fabrication of A-CNT wafers are mainly laboratory-level solution-based processes. Here, we conduct a systematic investigation into the microstructures of A-CNT FETs mainly via cross-sectional high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and tentatively establish a framework consisting of up to 11 parameters which can be used for structure-side quality evaluation of the A-CNT FETs. The parameter ensemble includes the diameter, length (or terminal), and density distribution of CNTs, radial deformation of CNTs, array alignment defects, surface crystallography facets of contact metal, thickness distribution of high-k dielectrics (HfO 2 ), and the contact ratios for the CNT-CNT, CNT-metal, CNT-dielectric, and CNT-substrate interfaces. Enriched array alignment defects, i.e., bundle, stacking, misorientation, and voids, are observed with a total ratio sometimes up to ∼90% in pristine A-CNTs and even up to ∼95% after the device fabrication process. Thus, they are suggested as the prevalent performance-limiting factors for A-CNT FETs. Complex interfacial structures are observed at the CNT-CNT, CNT-metal contact, and CNT-high-k dielectric interfaces, making the local environment and the property of each component CNT involved in an A-CNT FET distinct from others in terms of the diameters, radial deformation, and interactions with the local surroundings (mainly through van der Waals interactions). The present study suggests further improvements on the fabrication technology of A-CNT wafers and devices and mechanistic investigations into the impacts of complex array alignment defects and interface structures on the electrical performance of A-CNT FETs as well.

We develop a novel metal contact approach using an antimony (Sb)-platinum (Pt) bilayer to mitigate Fermi-level pinning in 2D transition metal dichalcogenide channels. This strategy allows for control over the transport polarity in monolayer WSe 2 devices. By adjustment of the Sb interfacial layer thickness from 10 to 30 nm, the effective work function of the contact/WSe 2 interface can be tuned from 4.42 eV (p-type) to 4.19 eV (n-type), enabling selectable n-/p-FET operation in enhancement mode. The shift in effective work function is linked to Sb-Se bond formation and an emerging n-doping effect. This work demonstrates high-performance n- and p-FETs with a single WSe 2 channel through Sb-Pt contact modulation. After oxide encapsulation, the maximum current density at |V D | = 1 V reaches 170 μA/μm for p-FET and 165 μA/μm for n-FET. This approach shows promise for cost-effective CMOS transistor applications using a single channel material and metal contact scheme.

The need for reducing the energy consumption and volume of materials used in the aerospace industry has been driving the further optimization of the behavior of TiAl alloy under friction and wear. Therefore, investigating the micro-/nanostructures of the wear scar cross sections when TiAl-Ag composites slide against an immobile Si3N4 ball should help to analyze the friction and wear behaviors. Plastic deformation was observed to occur in the cross sections of the analyzed wear scar during the initial −25 min of the experiments; consequently, a work-hardened layer formed, and the friction coefficient and wear rate rapidly decreased. During the 25-60 min interval, the wear debris was refined in succession and formed a lubrication film, and the friction resistance and material loss were reduced. During the 60-120 min interval, a remarkably large amount of Ag was determined to be well distributed across the wear scar. It coincided with excellent deformation; moreover, the friction coefficients and wear rates of the TiAl-10 wt.% Ag composites were low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chiadzwa diamonds attracted widespread attention due to human rights violations and illegal smuggling. When diamonds were discovered in 2006, thousands of artisanal miners descended on the diamond fields. In response, the government unleashed the army and police in brutal crackdowns to drive artisanal miners off the diamond fields. This militarisation of diamond fields and extraction was followed by forced displacement of the Chiadzwa people. This article examines the lived, everyday experiences of the displaced Chiadzwa people. Findings reveal that displacements dislocated the livelihoods and socialities of the people. Displacements also exacerbated people's vulnerability to livelihood shocks, insecurity, and poverty. In relocating people the government adopted a 'top-down' approach which triggered contestations and conflicts with the people who felt alienated from their ancestral land and excluded from diamond wealth. Consequently, sabotage, resistance and subversion were commonplace in the relocation process. These socio-political 'tactics' should be viewed as 'weapons of the weak'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal silica has been utilized as a binder agent in various areas owing to its sinterability and high permeability. However, regarding its use in MgO–CaO hot gunning mixes are lacking. In this study, phase compositions and physical properties of different colloidal silica contents on hot gunning mixes were investigated. The rebound loss rate of hot gunning mixes at 1100 °C was also evaluated via thermal simulation. In addition, the interface analysis between the gunned layer and Mag-Chrome bricks was presented, and the results were compared with those obtained using conventional phosphate-bonded mixes. The results indicate that the colloidal silica-bonded MgO–CaO hot gunning mixes achieve the appropriate mechanical strength and bulk density with 5 wt% of colloidal silica; the primary phases of mixes were forsterite and monticellite. In comparison with the conventional phosphate-bonded gunning mixes, the use of colloidal silica led to better physical properties and lower rebound loss rate under the present experimental conditions. Moreover, the gunned layers obtained were more compact and cohesive than the ones prepared using conventional phosphate-bonded mixes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Investigation of premature blistering and delamination of coated AA5006 window frames using scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is presented. SEM of the blisters revealed corrosion of Aluminium and accumulation of corrosion products at the interface of coating and metal. TEM and XPS analysis revealed a thin and non-homogenous hexavalent Cr conversion layer. High number density of intermetallics, and surface defects from metal forming process resulted in a defective conversion coating leading to reduced corrosion protection of aluminium in the presence of water and Cl from atmosphere. • Blistering of coated AA5006 profiles occurred by corrosion product accumulation at metal-coating interface. • AA5006 sheet metal had high number of intermetallic particles due to its recycled nature. • Cr conversion coating on AA5006 was inhomogeneous due to surface defects and intermetallics on metal. • Corrosion was localised at sites with higher concentration of intermetallics. • Moisture and Cl- initiated corrosion, which accelerated due to defective conversion layer and high intermetallics density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Printing of electrical circuits and interconnects using isotropic conductive adhesives (ICAs) is of great interest due to their low-temperature processing and compatibility with substrates for applications in sensors, healthcare, and flexible devices. As a lower cost alternative to silver (Ag), copper (Cu)-filled ICAs are desirable but limited by the formation of high-resistivity Cu surface oxides. To overcome this limitation, self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of octadecanethiol (ODT) have been demonstrated to reduce the oxidation of micrometer-scale Cu powder particles for use in ICAs. However, the deposition and function of the SAM require further investigation, as described in this paper. As part of this work, the stages of the SAM deposition process, which included etching with hydrochloric acid to remove pre-existing oxides, were studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which showed low levels of subsequent Cu oxidation when ODT coated. The treated Cu powders were combined with one- or two-part epoxy resins to make Cu-ICAs, and the effect of the Cu surface condition and weight loading on electrical conductivity was examined. When thermally cured in an inert argon atmosphere, ICAs filled with Cu protected by ODT achieved electrical conductivity up to 20 × 10 5 S·m -1 , comparable to Ag-ICAs, and were used to make a functional circuit. To understand the function of the SAM in these Cu-ICAs, scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to examine the internal micro- and nano-structures along with the elemental distribution at the interfaces within sections taken from cured samples. Sulfur (S), indicative of the ODT, was still detected at the internal polymer-metal interface after curing, and particle-to-particle contacts were also examined. XPS also identified S on the surface of cured Cu-ICAs even after thermal treatment. Based on the observations, electrical contact and conduction mechanisms for these Cu-filled ICAs are proposed and discussed.

In this study, an Al thin film interlayer of 80 nm thick has been applied on FeCoNi alloy substrate which possesses a low coefficient of thermal expansion, to enhance the interfacial adhesion of diamond films produced by microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Characterization of the top deposit, interlayer and the underlying substrate was performed by Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray photoelectronic spectroscopy, X-scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The Al interlayer has effectively inhibited the formation of graphitic carbon and markedly enhanced the nucleation, growth and adhesion of diamond films. The beneficial role Al plays is primarily attributed to the formation of an alumina barrier layer on the substrate surface, as verified by interfacial analysis.

Atom probe tomography is a powerful microscopy technique capable of reconstructing the 3D position and chemical identity of millions of atoms within engineering materials, at the atomic level. Crystallographic information contained within the data is particularly valuable for the purposes of reconstruction calibration and grain boundary analysis. Typically, analysing this data is a manual, time-consuming and error prone process. In many cases, the crystallographic signal is so weak that it is difficult to detect at all. In this study, a new automated signal processing methodology is demonstrated. We use the affine properties of the detector coordinate space, or the ‘detector stack’, as the basis for our calculations. The methodological framework and the visualisation tools are shown to be superior to the standard method of crystallographic pole visualisation directly from field evaporation images and there is no requirement for iterations between a full real-space initial tomographic reconstruction and the detector stack. The mapping approaches are demonstrated for aluminium, tungsten, magnesium and molybdenum. Implications for reconstruction calibration, accuracy of crystallographic measurements, reliability and repeatability are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-Cr-Si-B active filler alloy was used to braze diamond on 40CrMo steel in vacuum and argon atmosphere, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and Transmission electron microscope were applied to characterize the surface morphology, interfacial microstructure, elemental diffusion properties and thermal damage of brazed diamond. Further, the characteristics of brazed molten alloy specimens were evaluated by experiments of hardness and wear resistance. The results showed that a good metallurgical bonding on brazed diamond interface was occurred, forming a Cr-C phase compound with fibrous columnar structure. Besides, the brazing diamond did not appear explicit surface graphitization phenomenon, but the thermal damage of diamond suffered from high temperature brazed process in argon atmosphere was lower at 52.1% than that in vacuum. Moreover, the hard point phase compound like chromium-boron and nickel-boron were not generated in molten alloy in argon atmosphere, which contributed to the reduction of residual stresses around diamond interface. In addition, frictional wear experiment of molten brazed alloy was designed, which indicated that the wear rate in argon atmosphere was reduced by 12.3%. This fact implied that it was beneficial to reduce thermal damage of diamond and improve wear resistance of molten alloy during brazing process in argon atmosphere. • Metallurgical bonding of diamond and Ni-Cr alloy was obtained by braze welding. • Cr-C phase compound with fibrous columnar structure were formed at the interface. • Lower thermal damage of brazing diamond was obtained at argon atmosphere. • Residual stress at brazing interface was caused by the formed hard point phases. • Wear rate of molten brazing alloy at argon atmosphere was reduced by 12.3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]