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Graphene and related 2D materials (GR2Ms) are now entering an exciting phase of commercialization and use in products. Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) can be obtained in rather large quantities, but the properties of these industrially produced powders can vary depending on the production method, and even from batch to batch. Understanding and optimizing the surface chemistry of GNPs, modified through chemical functionalization processes is crucial, because it affects their dispersibility in solvents and matrices for the purpose of embedding them into real-world products. Therefore, reliable and repeatable measurements of the surface chemistry of functionalized GNPs are an important issue for suppliers as well as users of these materials. To address these concerns, international documentary ISO standards for measurement methodologies are under development which incorporate protocols that are becoming widely accepted in the community.
Recently, it was shown that pelletizing led to lower average O/C atomic ratios than those measured for powders [1]. In another study, the influence of the morphology on the degree of functionalization was shown [2]. As expected, a higher degree of functionalization was detected for smaller GNPs. The functionalization was located at the outermost surfaces of the GNPs by comparing experiments using photoelectron with soft (Al Kα, 1.486 keV) and hard X-rays (Cr Kα, 5.405 keV). Therefore, it is important for those using GNPs to understand both the physical and chemical properties of these particles, when considering their use in different applications.
The next step for reliable characterization protocols was the realization of an interlaboratory comparison under the auspices of VAMAS (Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards) with 22 participating laboratories from all over the world. Samples of oxygen-, nitrogen-, and fluorine- functionalized GNPs were provided to the participants along with a measurement protocol. Participants were asked to prepare the samples as powders on a tape, powders in a sample holder recess, or as pellets. The lower measured O/C ratio reported for pelletized samples [1] was confirmed. The lowest scattering of the results was observed for the powders measured in the recess (Fig. 1). Furthermore, an influence of the humidity on the results was observed.
Interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) are an important tool for the validation of characterisation methods, and, herwith, a prerequisite for standardisation. The "Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards" offers a framework for performing such ILCs: (i) TiO2 nanoparticles using ToF-SIMS, and (ii) the chemical composition of functionalized graphene using XPS. The results of both ILCs underline the importance of sample preparation for the measured results.
AbstractTwo‐photon polymerization (2PP) additive manufacturing (AM) utilizes feedstocks of ceramic nanoparticles of a few nanometers in diameter, enabling the fabrication of highly accurate technical ceramic design with structural details as small as 500 nm. The performance of these materials is expected to differ from conventional AM ceramics, as nanoparticles and three‐dimensional printing at high resolution introduce new microstructural aspects. This study applies 2PP‐AM of yttria‐stabilized zirconia to investigate the mechanical response behavior under compressive load, probing the influence of smallest structural units induced by the line packing during the printing process, design of sintered microblocks, and sintering temperature and thereby microstructure. We find a dissipative mechanical response enhanced by sintering at lower temperatures than conventional. The pursued 2PP‐AM approach yields a microstructured material with an increased number of grain boundaries that proposedly play a major role in facilitating energy dissipation within the here printed ceramic material. This microplastic response is further triggered by the filigree structures induced by hollow line packing at the order of the critical defect size of ceramics. Together, these unique aspects made accessible by the 2PP‐AM approach contribute to a heterogeneous nano‐ and microstructure, and hint toward opportunities for tailoring the mechanical response in future ceramic applications.
An overview with the basics of size and shape measurement of particles and 2D structures according to established methodologies (and popular imaging processing software packages) with imaging techniques is given. Main descriptors are explained based on practical cases are determined interactively at the flipchart.
Traceable morphological and chemical characterization of nanomaterials with respect to the various possible sizes, size distributions, shapes, and concentrations of real-world nanoparticles (NPs) is a challenging task. Particularly for the nonspherical, non-monodisperse nanoparticles – as typically for most of the commercial particles, including their strong tendency to agglomerate, there is a lack of standard operation procedures providing accurate nanoparticle characterisation.
In the framework of the pre-standardisation framework of VAMAS (Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards, www.vamas.org) two interlaboratory comparison (ILC) studies are being carried out under the Technical Working Area (TWA) 34 “Nanoparticle Populations”:i) Project #15 addresses the analysis of the size and shape distribution of TiO2 bipyramidal NPs by traceable imaging methods such as TEM, SEM, STEM-in-SEM, AFM as well as with SAXS as an ensemble method. This ILC is thought as the next level development of the case studies exemplified in the published ISO standards ISO 21363 and ISO 19749. It was agreed to complete the first ILC with the NPs already prepared according to the same procedure on a TEM grid, and, at a later stage, to carry out second ILCs with the same NPs distributed to the participants as liquid suspensions together with protocols for the uniform NP deposition on suited substrates - as developed and optimized within the European project nPSize. Once having good deposition protocols available, the door for automated image analysis gets opened. Corresponding image analysis protocols and reporting templates have been distributed to the ILC participants, too.
ii) Project #16: two spherical SiO2 NP samples with bi-modal size distributions in two nominal relative number concentrations were prepared and distributed also as liquid suspensions accompanied by sample preparation, measurement, and image analysis protocols and reporting templates. Here, the NP concentration is the primary parameter to be measured. For the imaging methods it is targeted to
measure the relative nanoparticle concentrations (relative populations of the two modes).
The results of all the participating laboratories, in both ILCs, compiled in comparative representations will be shown and discussed for the first time. The reduction of the measurement uncertainties associated to the size, shape and number-concentration results induced by the significant improvement of the sample preparation on substrates (as single particles with a high-density coverage), combined with welldefined image analysis procedures will be highlighted.
Porous films play an important role particularly in energy applications like photovoltaics, electrolysis or batteries. Thin film properties such as thickness, chemical composition, crystallinity of the framework, and porosity define the activity of the porous films. The accurate morpho-chemical characterisation of mesoporous thin films is a challenging analytical task which requires the consideration of new analytical approaches based on the combination of data of different methods able to address the structure and chemical composition at the nanoscale. In this contribution we characterise thin mesoporous iridium-titanium mixed oxide film properties by Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) at an SEM applied in a dedicated “thin film analysis” approach. Thus, the film mass deposition, film thickness and the film density can be determined. Further, by dividing the measured film density to an assumed (theoretical) metal oxide framework (skeletal) density, the thin film porosity can be extracted, too.
In order to assess the homogeneity of the thin film properties like the chemical composition, Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Auger Electron Spectrometry are applied in the depth profiling mode, so that possible in-depth gradients are detected. Lateral inhomogeneities in the chemical composition and structure of the thin mesoporous films are also identified by applying the same methods in the line-scan or mapping mode, which can be further combined with in-depth sputtering for 3D information. The role of the spatial resolution of the analytical methods considered, which can go down well below 100 nm, will be highlighted.
Following parts of the research project as proceeded at University of Birminngham are presented: Translocation, Experiments, Synthesis of DNA Structures, Antibody, Biomarker, Binding. Following works have been carried out at BAM: High Resolution Electron Microscopy, Dedicated Sample Preparation, Surface Analysis Methods.
Analyzing materials composed of multiple elements with spectroscopic techniques such as X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Auger-Electron Spectroscopy (AES) or Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA), can be challenging due to spectral overlap. Moreover, each analytical method introduces its own set of challenges, e.g., the strong secondary fluorescence effect for neighbor elements in EPMA, thus, making the accurate elemental quantification in such materials difficult. When the material is available as thin film, additional constraints are inherently present. To provide a reference material for these analytical challenges high entropy alloys (HEAs) are excellent candidates. Currently, there is no thin film reference available containing more than 2 elements.
Unlike traditional alloys, which typically consist of one or two main elements and smaller amounts of secondary elements, HEAs are characterized by the presence of multiple principal elements in almost equal proportions. This unique composition results in a high degree of disorder at the atomic level, leading to exceptional mechanical, physical, and often unexpected properties. HEAs have garnered significant attention in materials science and engineering due to their potential applications in a wide range of industries, from aerospace and automotive to electronics and renewable energy.
For the preparation of a dedicated thin film reference material, we have chosen to prepare HEAs by magnetron sputtering, since it is not associated with elemental segregation that may occur due to the high configurational entropy of HEAs, which promotes atomic rearrangements. Our goal was to prepare films with a homogeneous thickness and defined chemical composition to be analyzed by various methods dedicated to surface analysis.
The material, consisting of titanium, chromium, manganese, iron, and nickel was deposited as film on silicon substrates - to our knowledge the first HEA thin film of this type reported in literature. A set of different thickness of the films was chosen, on the one hand to facilitate the analysis with different techniques, and on the other side to evaluate the limitations of the respective methods. The films morphology was characterized as prepared by SEM followed by the analysis of their 2D compositional homogeneity by EDX, XRF, ToF-SIMS and XPS. in-depth chemical composition was evaluated by ToF-SIMS and AES. The outcomes of analyzing the initial batches of films will be presented.
Nanopipettes are a type of solid-state nanopore with needle-like geometry. Their applications range from imaging, sensing, diagnostics, and use as injectors. The response of nanopipette sensors is highly dependent on the size, geometry and chemical properties of the sensing region. As nanopipettes are increasingly tuned and modified for specific analytes, a better understanding of the surface chemistry and morphology of the inner channel is necessary. For exploring these effects, quartz nanopipettes were modified by gas phase silanization, a well-utilised technique in the field to enhance performance of nanopipettes, and further functionalised with a metal bis thiolate complex, to aid in chemical analysis. The inner channel of the sensing region was exposed with focused ion beam (FIB) milling as a dedicated sample preparation method for nanoscale surface analysis. The sample characterisation involved scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and low-energy energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The results demonstrate the first steps towards full characterisation of nanopipettes at the nanoscale, notably with access to the inner channel. The methods used here can be applied to gain further understanding of the response of these sensors to complex analytes, and allow for the study of different surface functionalisation at the all-important sensing region.
Nanopipettes are a type of solid-state nanopore with needle-like geometry. Their applications range from imaging, sensing, diagnostics, and use as injectors. The response of nanopipette sensors is highly dependent on the size, geometry and chemical properties of the sensing region. As they are increasingly tuned and modified for specific analytes, a better understanding of the surface chemistry and morphology of the inner channel is necessary. With the aim of developing a comprehensive approach for characterisation of such nanopipettes, this research focuses on combining surface-sensitive analysis methods with advanced sample preparation techniques. Quartz substrates were modified by gas phase silanization, a well-utilised technique in the field to enhance performance of nanopipettes, and further functionalised with a metal bis thiolate complex, to aid in chemical analysis. The sample characterisation involved scanning electron microscopy (SEM), low-energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Using focused ion beam (FIB) milling under gentle conditions, the inner surface of quartz nanopipettes was exposed whilst preserving the integrity of the overall structure (see figure). Owing to the challenging analysis conditions, modification and analysis of flat quartz substrates has been performed in parallel for optimisation purposes. The results demonstrate the first steps towards full characterisation of nanopipettes at the nanoscale, notably with access to the inner channel. The methods used here can be applied to gain further understanding of the response of these sensors to complex analytes and allow for the study of different surface functionalisations at the all-important sensing region.
Graphene has been commercialized for over a decade. It is usually used in the form of suspensions or inks. In this study, we analyze the starting material for commercial functionalized graphene (FG) solutions and inks as well as their starting material (FG powders) using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX), time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Graphene was functionalized with fluorine, oxygen, ammonia, and carboxylic acid.
Our results suggest a significant effect of water and commercial resins on the presence as well as the morphological behavior of graphene and associated functionalized group. For example, XPS analysis shows some significant differences between the solutions and the starting materials (powders). These changes can be explained by the location of the functionalization at the outer most surface as indicated by Chemello et al.
Graphene has been commercialized for over a decade. It is usually used in the form of suspensions or inks. In this study, we analyze the starting material for commercial functionalized graphene (FG) solutions and inks as well as their starting material (FG powders) using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX), time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Graphene was functionalized with fluorine, oxygen, ammonia, and carboxylic acid.
Our results suggest a significant effect of water and commercial resins on the presence as well as the morphological behavior of graphene and associated functionalized group. For example, XPS analysis shows some significant differences between the solutions and the starting materials (powders). These changes can be explained by the location of the functionalization at the outer most surface as indicated by Chemello et al.
Electron microscopy applied in different operating modes, e.g., SEM, TEM or STEM-in-SEM, is the gold standard method to investigate the exact size and shape of individual nanoparticles. However, when fine nanoparticles with a non-monodisperse size distribution and non-spherical shapes are analysed, achieving an accurate result is challenging. Deviations in size measurements of more than 10% may occur. Understanding of the contrasts and sensitivities characteristic to the individual operating modes of an electron microscope is key in interpreting and evaluating quantitatively the measurement uncertainties needed for an eventual certification of specific nanoparticles via traceable results. Further, beyond the pure measurement, the other components in the analysis workflow with significant impact on the overall measurement uncertainties are the sample preparation and the image segmentation. In the present study the same areas of selected iron oxide fine nanoparticles (<25 nm) as reference nanomaterial (candidate) prepared on substrate for electron microscopy imaging are analysed correlatively with SEM, STEM-in-SEM and TEM with respect to their size and shape distribution. Individual significant measurement uncertainties are discussed, e.g., the sensitivity of secondary electron detectors of InLens-type to the surface morphology, particularly to the presence of an ultrathin organic coating or signal saturation effects on the particle edges, to electron beam exposure, to surface contamination, or the selection of the threshold for image segmentation. Another goal of this study is to establish a basis of analysis conditions which shall guarantee accurate results when both manual and particularly (semi-)automated segmentation approaches are applied. Advantages as well as limitations of the use of different electron microscopy operating modes, applied individually and correlatively, are highlighted.
Graphene and graphene-oxide (GO) are advanced materials which – similar to other graphene-related 2D materials (GR-2M) - are already used for instance in catalysis processes, biomedical applications, in inks and resins, or as composite materials for the aviation industry. The lateral/structural characterization of graphene oxide (GO) flakes is a challenging task, with steps like sample preparation, representative image selection and exact determination of the particle size distribution of well-defined size and shape descriptors being crucial for an accurate analysis. To ensure that safe-by-design principles are met within the various application fields, the commercial material must be thoroughly characterized and specified through well-known and standardized procedures.
GO flakes with different degrees of complexity were selected to assess the requirements for an accurate evaluation of their physico-chemical properties. These samples show inherent features with complex nanoscale characteristics such as porosity and edge roughness; further, the lateral size (quantified via equivalent circular diameter (ECD), minimum Feret and maximum Feret) of isolated and overlapping particles deposited on a substrate span over several orders of magnitude (nano to micron scale). The samples showed different degrees of agglomeration (and possible aggregation) with sizes ranging between submicron to a few tens of micrometers.
One focus is the automated segmentation and evaluation of images obtained by electron microscopy. The GO samples appear translucent with well-defined contrast between single and overlapping flakes both with the secondary electron detector of type InLens as well as with SEM in the transmission mode (STEM) utilizing a dedicated sample holder. To this end it is of utmost importance for the accurate image segmentation to carefully select thresholds both manually and through semi-automatic approaches using well-known threshold algorithms such as “IsoData” and pre-defined segmentation applications such as the ParticleSizer software package.
Further specific challenges in identifying and extracting key features of selected graphene oxide flakes are being discussed and approaches towards accurate and representative characterization are presented.
AbstractLithium‐ion batteries, essential for electronics and electric vehicles, predominantly use cathodes made from critical materials like cobalt. Sulfur‐based cathodes, offering a high theoretical capacity of 1675 mAh g−1 and environmental advantages due to sulfur's abundance and lower toxicity, present a more sustainable alternative. However, state‐of‐the‐art sulfur‐based electrodes do not reach the theoretical capacities, mainly because conventional electrode production relies on mixing of components into weakly coordinated slurries. Consequently, sulfur‘s mobility leads to battery degradation—an effect known as the “sulfur‐shuttle”. This study introduces a solution by developing a microporous, covalently‐bonded, imine‐based polymer network grown in situ around sulfur particles on the current collector. The polymer network (i) enables selective transport of electrolyte and Li‐ions through pores of defined size, and (ii) acts as a robust host to retain the active component of the electrode (sulfur species). The resulting cathode has superior rate performance from 0.1 C (1360 mAh g−1) to 3 C (807 mAh g−1). Demonstrating a high‐performance, sustainable sulfur cathode produced via a simple one‐pot process, our research underlines the potential of microporous polymers in addressing sulfur diffusion issues, paving the way for sulfur electrodes as viable alternatives to traditional metal‐based cathodes.
Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) containing well-defined redox-active groups have become competitive materials for next-generation batteries. Although high potentials and rate performance can be expected, only a few examples of p-type COFs have been reported for charge storage to date with even fewer examples on the use of COFs in multivalent ion batteries. Herein, we report the synthesis of a p-type highly porous and crystalline azatruxene-based COF and its application as a positive electrode material in Li- and Mg-based batteries. When this material is used in Li-based half cells as a COF/carbon nanotube (CNT) electrode, a discharge potential of 3.9 V is obtained with discharge capacities of up to 70 mAh g−1 at a 2 C rate. In Mg batteries using a tetrakis(hexafluoroisopropyloxy)borate electrolyte, cycling proceeds with an averge discharge voltage of 2.9 V. Even at a fast current rate of 5 C, the capacity retention amounts to 84% over 1000 cycles.
High‐Entropy Alloys and Their Affinity with Hydrogen: From Cantor to Platinum Group Elements Alloys
(2024)
AbstractProperties of high‐entropy alloys are currently in the spotlight due to their promising applications. One of the least investigated aspects is the affinity of these alloys to hydrogen, its diffusion, and reactions. In this study, high pressure is applied at ambient temperature and stress‐induced diffusion of hydrogen is investigated into the structure of high‐entropy alloys (HEA) including the famous Cantor alloy as well as less known, but nevertheless important platinum group (PGM) alloys. By applying X‐ray diffraction to samples loaded into diamond anvil cells, a comparative investigation of transition element incorporating HEA alloys in Ne and H2 pressure‐transmitting media is performed at ambient temperature. Even under stresses far exceeding conventional industrial processes, both Cantor and PGM alloys show exceptional resistance to hydride formation, on par with widely used industrial grade Cu–Be alloys. The observations inspire optimism for practical HEA applications in hydrogen‐relevant industry and technology (e.g., coatings, etc), particularly those related to transport and storage.
Revolutionizing our polymer industry for adaption to a sustainable carbon circular economy has become one of today’s most demanding challenges. Exploiting renewable resources to replace fossil-fuel—based plastics with biopolymers such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is inevitable while using waste streams as a raw material resource at least is promising. When it comes to using PLA as technical polymer, its high flammability must be addressed by flame retardants compatible with the thermoplastic processing of PLA and its compostability. This study proposes microalgae enriched with phosphorus from wastewater (P-Algae) as an elegant way towards a kind of sustainable organophosphorus flame retardant. The concept is demonstrated by investigating the processing, pyrolysis, flammability, and fire behavior of PLA/P-Algae, while varying the P-Algae content and comparing P-Algae with four alternative bio-fillers (phosphorylated lignin, biochar, thermally treated sewage sludge, and metal phytate) with different P-contents as meaningful benchmarks.
A damaging action of HNO3-55% only occurs in combination with its decomposition into nitrous gases, which can be caused by UV radiation. In a laboratory test, transparent HDPE jerrycans have been exposed to both UV radiation and 55 wt-% nitric acid solution at (41 ± 2)°C, for up to 20 days. For comparison, UV radiant exposure (21 days) and nitric acid exposure (up to 6 weeks) were performed separately, at nearly equal temperatures. The respective damages are compared with FTIR spectroscopy in ATR and HT-gel permeation chromatography (GPC) on a molecular level and with hydraulic internal pressure testing as a component test. For the used jerrycans, relevant oxidation can only be found after the combined exposure. The gradual increase in oxidative damage shows the good reproducibility of the lab exposure. The decomposition of nitric acid into nitrous gases by UV radiation – as well as the jerrycan oxidation – is also observed at lower HNO3 concentration (28 wt- %). Similar results are obtained after outdoor tests. Again, the damage occurs only after combined exposure, in contrast to the exposures to UV only and to HNO3 only, which were conducted in parallel. Outdoor exposures are most readily accepted as they represent possible end-use conditions. However, the reproducibility of these exposures is poor due to the large temporal variations in weather. There are also several safety risks, which is why the number of replicates remains limited. Since the outdoor and lab exposure tests show the same qualitative results, it is appropriate to conduct systematic studies in the laboratory. After 6 days of lab exposure, the oxidation damage is rated as critical, which corresponds to about 1/10 year in Central Europe, according to the UV radiant exposure. It should be noted that this amount can also occur in two sunny weeks.
Polymers of intrinsic microporosity exhibit a combination of high gas permeability and reasonable permselectivity, which makes them attractive candidates for gas separation membrane materials. The diffusional selective gas transport properties are connected to the molecular mobility of these polymers in the condensed state. Incoherent quasielastic neutron scattering was carried out on two polymers of intrinsic microporosity, PIM-EA-TB(CH3) and its demethylated counterpart PIM-EA-TB(H2), which have high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area values of 1030 m2 g-1 and 836 m2 g-1, respectively. As these two polymers only differ in the presence of two methyl groups at the ethanoanthracene unit, the effect of methyl group rotation can be investigated solely. To cover a broad dynamic range, neutron time-of-flight was combined with neutron backscattering. The demethylated PIM-EA-TB(H2) exhibits a relaxation process with a weak intensity at short times. As the backbone is rigid and stiff this process was assigned to bendand-flex fluctuations. This process was also observed for the PIM-EA-TB(CH3). A further relaxation process is found for PIM-EA-TB(CH3), which is the methyl group rotation. It was analyzed by a jump-diffusion in a three-fold potential considering also the fact that only a fraction of the present hydrogens in PIM-EATB(CH3) participate in the methyl group rotation. This analysis can quantitatively describe the q dependence of the elastic incoherent structure factor. Furthermore, a relaxation time for the methyl group rotation can be extracted. A high activation energy of 35 kJ mol-1 was deduced. This high activation energy evidences a strong hindrance of the methyl group rotation in the bridged PIM-EA-TB(CH3) structure.
Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) offer a platform to create different chemical structures and linkages for highly stable covalent organic frameworks (COFs). As an illustrative example, the multicomponent Povarov reaction generates 2,4-phenylquinoline from aldehydes and amines in the presence of electron-rich alkenes. In this study, we introduce a new domino reaction to generate unprecedented 2,3-phenylquinoline COFs in the presence of epoxystyrene. This work thus presents, for the first time, structural isomeric COFs produced by multicomponent domino and Povarov reactions. Furthermore, 2,3-phenylquinolines can undergo a Scholl reaction to form extended aromatic linkages. With this approach, we synthesize two thermally and chemically stable MCR-COFs and two heteropolyaromatic COFs using both domino and in situ domino and Scholl reactions. The structure and properties of these COFs are compared with the corresponding 2,4-phenylquinoline-linked COF and imine-COF, and their activity toward benzene and cyclohexane sorption and separation is investigated. The position of the pendant phenyl groups within the COF pore plays a crucial role in facilitating the industrially important sorption and separation of benzene over cyclohexane. This study opens a new avenue to construct heteropolyaromatic COFs via MCR reactions.
In materials science, traditional techniques for analyzing layered structures are essential for obtaining information about local structure, electronic properties and chemical states. While valuable, these methods often require high vacuum environments and have limited depth profiling capabilities. The grazing exit x-ray absorption near-edge structure (GE-XANES) technique addresses these limitations by providing depth-resolved insight at ambient conditions, facilitating in situ material analysis without special sample preparation. However, GE-XANES is limited by long data acquisition times, which hinders its practicality for various applications. To overcome this, we have incorporated Bayesian optimization (BO) into the GE-XANES data acquisition process. This innovative approach potentially reduces measurement time by a factor of 50. We have used a standard GE-XANES experiment, which serve as reference, to validate the effectiveness and accuracy of the BO-informed experimental setup. Our results show that this optimized approach maintains data quality while significantly improving efficiency, making GE-XANES more accessible to a wider range of materials science applications.
Material Acceleration Platforms (MAPs) represent a transformative approach to the development of resilient and sustainable technology value chains. These platforms can identify candidate chemistries and structures via simulations, and database searches and leverage machine learning-based rapid screening to accelerate the discovery and deployment of novel materials, thereby addressing critical challenges in modern technology sectors.
Incorporating high-fidelity advanced characterization in the early phases of material development is crucial for early de-risking. Advanced characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, advanced electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques provide comprehensive insights into the structural, chemical, and physical properties of materials. Long-term testing further contributes to the de-risking process by evaluating the durability and stability of materials under various environmental and operational conditions. Early identification of potential degradation mechanisms enables the refinement of material compositions and processing methods, ultimately leading to the development of more resilient materials.
Early upscaling attempts are integral to assessing the feasibility of material leads generated through machine learning-based rapid screening to evaluate the scalability of synthesis and processing techniques. This step is critical for identifying potential challenges in manufacturing, such as issues related to reproducibility, yield, and cost-effectiveness. Process design has to be a major part of the MAP-based material design to cope with the increasing share of secondary raw materials in supply chains.
This presentation will briefly summarize possible strategies to address these issues and provide deep-dives on best practices. As the demand for advanced materials continues to grow, MAPs will play an increasingly vital role in driving technological advancements and addressing global challenges.
Recent publications indicate that the order of electrochemical anodization (before or after the laser-processing step) plays an important role for the response of boneforming osteoblasts – an effect that can be utilized for improving permanent dental- or removable bone-implants. For exploring these different surface functionalities, multi-method chemical and structural characterizations were performed for two different characteristic micro-spikes covered by nanometric laserinduced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) on Ti-6Al-4V upon irradiation with nearinfrared ps-laser pulses (1030 nm wavelength, ~1 ps pulse duration, 66 & 80 kHz pulse repetition rate) at two distinct sets of laser fluence and beam scanning parameters. This involves morphological and topographical investigations by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and white light interference microscopy (WLIM), near-surface chemical analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES), as well as structural material examination via X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The results allow to qualify the laser ablation depth, assess the spike geometry and surface roughness parameters, and provide detailed insights into the near-surface oxidation that may cause the different cell growth behavior for pre- or post-anodized medical implants.
Surface-modification platforms that are universally applicable are vital for the development of new materials, surfaces, and nanoparticles. Mussel-inspired materials (MIMs) are widely used in various fields because of their strong adhesive properties and post-functionalization reactivity. However, conventional MIM coating techniques have limited deposition selectivity and lack structural control, which has limited their use in microdevices that require full control over deposition. To overcome these limitations, we developed a micropatterning technique for MIMs using multiphoton lithography, which does not require photomasks, stamps, or multistep procedures. This method enables the creation of MIM patterns with micrometer resolution and full design freedom and paves the way for innovative applications of MIMs in various multifunctional systems and microdevices, such as microsensors, MEMS, and microfluidics.
Compound semiconductors (CS) are promising materials for the development of high-power electrical applications. They have low losses, can withstand high temperatures and can operate at very high voltages and currents. This makes them a key technology for the electrification of many high energy applications, especially electromobility and HVDC power lines.
The challenge with CS technology is that most of the process technology has to be developed anew to the high standards required by electronic applications. Today, compound semiconductors can be produced in thin layers on top of substrates fabricated from classical crystal growth processes that are already well established. A promising method for this is metal organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE). With this method, many different compounds with semiconducting properties can be synthesized. Additionally, this process technology is a direct thin layer deposition method. Therefore, complex multilayer systems can be generated directly by the deposition process and without the need of doping after growing.
There are a number of critical defects that can originate from the deposition process of these thin film devices. Within this project, we intend to develop new correlative imaging and analysis techniques to determine defect types, to quantify defect size and number density, as well as to characterise defects for process optimisation.
We report here on the use of spectroscopic ellipsometry and imaging ellipsometry to investigate defects in several different compound semiconductor materials used in high-power electronic devices. The materials we investigated are β-Ga2O3, SiC, GaN, AlN, and AlGaN materials as well as oxidised SiC surfaces. All of these materials have their typical defects and require optimised measurement and analysis schemes for reliable detection and analysis. Spectroscopic ellipsometry is a highly sensitive method for determining the thicknesses and dielectric function of thin layers, yielding potentially a high number of microscopic properties. The combined method between ellipsometry and optical microscopy is called imaging ellipsometry and is especially powerful for the large amount of data it produces. We have analysed defects in SiC- and AlN-based thin film semiconductors as well as characterised the properties of different types of SiO2 layers created on top of SiC monocrystals. We developed ellipsometric models for the data analysis of the different semiconductor materials.
If the defects have geometric features, it is useful to combine the ellipsometric analysis with topometry method like interference microscopy and scanning probe microscopy. We have successfully characterised function-critical defects in MOVPE SiC layers and correlated the findings with topography from WLIM measurements. We have developed an imaging ellipsometric measurement methodology that allows to estimate the relative defect area on a surface by a statistical raw data analysis.
Compound semiconductors (CS) are promising materials for the development of high-power electrical applications. They have low losses, can withstand high temperatures and can operate at very high voltages and currents. This makes them a key technology for the electrification of many high energy applications, especially electromobility and HVDC power lines.
The challenge is that most of the process technology has to be developed specifically and tailored to the high standards required by electronic applications. Today, many different CS materials can be produced in thin layers on top of substrates fabricated from classical crystal growth processes that are already well established. A promising method for this is metal organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE). This technology is a direct thin layer deposition method capable of producing complex multilayer systems directly from one deposition process without the need of doping after growing.
There are a number of critical defects that can originate from the deposition process when targeting electronic thin film devices. Within this project, we intend to develop new correlative imaging and analysis techniques to determine defect types, to quantify defect size and density, as well as to characterise defects for further process optimisation.
We report here on the use of spectroscopic and multispectral imaging ellipsometry to investigate defects in several different compound semiconductor materials used in high-power electronic devices. The materials we investigated are β-Ga2O3, SiC, GaN, AlN, and AlGaN as well as oxidised SiC. All of these materials have their typical defects and require optimised measurement and analysis schemes for reliable detection and analysis. Spectroscopic ellipsometry is a highly sensitive method for determining the thicknesses and dielectric function of thin layers, yielding potentially a high number of microscopic properties. The combined method between ellipsometry and optical microscopy is known as imaging ellipsometry and is especially powerful for the large amount of data it produces. We have analysed defects in SiC- and AlN-based thin film semiconductors as well as characterised the properties of different types of SiO2 layers created on top of SiC monocrystals. We developed ellipsometric models for the data analysis of the different semiconductor materials.
If the defects have geometric features, it is useful to combine the ellipsometric analysis with topometry methods like interference microscopy and scanning probe microscopy. We have successfully characterised function-critical defects in MOVPE SiC layers and correlated the findings with topography from WLIM measurements. We have developed an imaging ellipsometric measurement methodology that allows to estimate the relative defect area on a surface by a statistical raw data analysis.
Ellipsometry as optical metrology method for analysis of reference materials for nanoelectronics
(2024)
Electrical properties of materials at the nanoscale can be characterized using scanning microwave microscopes (SMM) and conductive atomic force microscopes (C AFM). However, the measurement results are difficult to compare since different setups and different reference standards are used. The development of new “out-of-lab” reference standards can contribute to the traceability and reliability of these scanning probe microscopy methods (SPM) and facilitate their broader industrial application.
In this study, we discuss the capability of optical methods such as ellipsometry for the characterization of existing and the development of new reference calibration samples for scanning microwave microscopy. Ellipsometry is a fast and non-destructive method, which enables very accurate determination of the layer thickness and the dielectric functions of the materials. Imaging ellipsometry is suitable for spatially resolved measurements when analyzing thin layers in microstructured samples.
We show how the electrical resistivity of indium tin oxide (ITO) layers in newly designed resistive calibration samples can be obtained from spectroscopic ellipsometric measurements. The extension of the measurement range into the mid-infrared region was necessary when analyzing ITO layers with low conductivity. This parameter was obtained by fitting a Drude function describing the absorption of the free carriers. The impact of the coating process conditions on the layer properties is discussed.
Imaging ellipsometry was applied for the characterisation of thin ITO and SiO2 layers in microstructured resistive and capacitance calibration kits. The uncertainties of determined layer thicknesses were specified according to standardized practice guides used in ellipsometry. We show how statistical fingerprint analysis of the measured ellipsometric transfer quantities can be used to validate the quality of potential reference materials for nano-electronics and to monitor the processing of structured samples.
The DACHS (Database for Automation, Characterization and Holistic Synthesis) project aims to create completely traceable experimental data, covering syntheses, measurements, analyses, and interpretations. DACHS_MOFs focuses on the synthesis and characterisation of metal-organic frameworks, across multiple, automation-assisted experimental series (AutoMOFs), with the overall goal of producing reproducible MOF samples through tracking of the synthesis parameters.
DACHS_MOFs is simultaneously used to test the DACHS principles.
This upload contain synthesis data from AutoMOFs_1 in HDF5 format (.h5). Each .h5 file contains detailed information on the chemical, experimenal, and synthesis parameters used during the synthesis of a single AutoMOF sample.
Recent publications indicate that the order of electrochemical anodization (before or after the laser processing step) plays an important role for the response of bone-forming osteoblasts—an effect that can be utilized for improving permanent dental or removable bone implants. For exploring these different surface functionalities, multimethod morphological, structural, and chemical characterizations are performed in combination with electrochemical pre- and postanodization for two different characteristic microspikes covered by nanometric laser-induced periodic surface structures on Ti–6Al–4V upon irradiation with near-infrared ps-laser pulses (1030 nm wavelength, ≈1 ps pulse duration, 67 and 80 kHz pulse repetition frequency) at two distinct sets of laser fluence and beam scanning parameters. This work involves morphological and topographical investigations by scanning electron microscopy and white light interference microscopy, structural material examinations via X-ray diffraction, and micro-Raman spectroscopy, as well as near-surface chemical analyses by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results allow to qualify the mean laser ablation depth, assess the spike geometry and surface roughness parameters, and provide new detailed insights into the near-surface oxidation that may affect the different cell growth behavior for pre- or postanodized medical implants.
Morphological and chemical analysis of mesoporous mixed IrOx-TiOy thin films as electrode materials
(2024)
Porous films play an important role particularly in energy applications like photovoltaics, electrolysis or batteries. Thin film properties such as thickness, chemical composition, crystallinity of the framework, and porosity define the activity of the porous films. The accurate morpho-chemical characterisation of mesoporous thin films is a challenging analytical task which requires the consideration of new analytical approaches based on the combination of data of different methods able to address the structure and chemical composition at the nanoscale. In this contribution we characterise thin mesoporous iridium-titanium mixed oxide film properties by Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) at an SEM applied in a dedicated “thin film analysis” approach (1). Thus, the film mass deposition, film thickness and the film density can be determined. Further, by dividing the measured film density to an assumed (theoretical) metal oxide framework (skeletal) density, the thin film porosity can be extracted, too.
In order to assess the homogeneity of the thin film properties like the chemical composition, Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Auger Electron Spectrometry are applied in the depth profiling mode, so that possible in-depth gradients are detected. Lateral inhomogeneities in the chemical composition and structure of the thin mesoporous films are also identified by applying the same methods in the line-scan or mapping mode, which can be further combined with in-depth sputtering for 3D information. The role of the spatial resolution of the analytical methods considered, which can go down well below 100 nm, will be highlighted.
Traceable morphological and chemical characterization of nanomaterials with respect to the various possible sizes, size distributions, shapes, and concentrations of real-world nanoparticles (NPs) is a challenging task. Particularly for the nonspherical, non-monodisperse nanoparticles – as typically for most of the commercial particles, including their strong tendency to agglomerate, there is a lack of standard operation procedures providing accurate nanoparticle characterisation.
In the framework of the pre-standardisation framework of VAMAS (Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards, www.vamas.org) two interlaboratory comparison (ILC) studies are being carried out under the Technical Working Area (TWA) 34 “Nanoparticle Populations”:i) Project #15 addresses the analysis of the size and shape distribution of TiO2 bipyramidal NPs by traceable imaging methods such as TEM, SEM, STEM-in-SEM, AFM as well as with SAXS as an ensemble method. This ILC is thought as the next level development of the case studies exemplified in the published ISO standards ISO 21363 and ISO 19749. It was agreed to complete the first ILC with the NPs already prepared according to the same procedure on a TEM grid, and, at a later stage, to carry out second ILCs with the same NPs distributed to the participants as liquid suspensions together with protocols for the uniform NP deposition on suited substrates - as developed and optimized within the European project nPSize. Once having good deposition protocols available, the door for automated image analysis gets opened. Corresponding image analysis protocols and reporting templates have been distributed to the ILC participants, too.
ii) Project #16: two spherical SiO2 NP samples with bi-modal size distributions in two nominal relative number concentrations were prepared and distributed also as liquid suspensions accompanied by sample preparation, measurement, and image analysis protocols and reporting templates. Here, the NP concentration is the primary parameter to be measured. For the imaging methods it is targeted to
measure the relative nanoparticle concentrations (relative populations of the two modes).
The results of all the participating laboratories, in both ILCs, compiled in comparative representations will be shown and discussed for the first time. The reduction of the measurement uncertainties associated to the size, shape and number-concentration results induced by the significant improvement of the sample preparation on substrates (as single particles with a high-density coverage), combined with welldefined image analysis procedures will be highlighted.
Mikroplastik Detektion mit Thermoanalytischen Methoden: Analytik, Referenzmaterial, Ringversuche
(2024)
Ich dem Vortrag geht es um die Vorstellung von thermoanalytischen Methoden für die Mikroplastik-Detektion. Verschiedene Kopplungsmöglichkeiten werden gezeigt und die Funktionsweise der TED-GC/MS wird erklärt. Im zweiten Teil werden Referenzmaterialien für die Mikroplastik-Analytik diskutiert. PET -Tabletten des PlasticTrace Projektes werden vorgestellt. Am Ende wird der VAMAS Ringversuch zur Mikroplastik-Detektion gezeigt.
The production of formaldehyde on industrial scale requires huge amounts of energy due to the involvement of reforming processes in combination with the demand in the megaton scale. Hence, a direct route for the transformation of (bio)methane to formaldehyde would decrease costs and puts less pressure on the environment. Herein, we report on the use of zinc modified silicas as possible support materials for vanadium catalysts and the resulting consequences for the performance in the selective oxidation of methane to formaldehyde. After optimization of the Zn content and reaction conditions, a remarkably high space-time yield of 12.4 kgCH2O⋅kgcat − 1 ⋅h− 1 was achieved. As a result of the extensive characterization by means of UV–vis, Raman, XANES and NMR spectroscopy it was found that vanadium is in the vicinity of highly dispersed zinc atoms which promote the formation of active vanadium species as supposed by theoretical calculations. This work presents a further step of catalyst development towards direct industrial methane conversion which may help to overcome current limitations in the future.
Abstract. In power electronics, compound semiconductors with large bandgaps, like silicon carbide (SiC), are increasingly being used as material instead of silicon. They have a lot of advantages over silicon but are also intolerant of nanoscale material defects, so that a defect inspection with high accuracy is needed. The different defect types on SiC samples are measured with various measurement methods, including optical and tactile methods. The defect types investigated include carrots, particles, polytype inclusions and threading dislocations, and they are analysed with imaging ellipsometry, coherent Fourier scatterometry (CFS), white light interference microscopy (WLIM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). These different measurement methods are used to investigate which method is most sensitive for which type of defect to be able to use the measurement methods more effectively. It is important to be able to identify the defects to classify them as critical or non-critical for the functionality of the end product. Once these investigations have been completed, the measurement systems can be optimally distributed to the relevant defects in further work to realize a hybrid analysis of the defects. In addition to the identification and classification of defects, such a future hybrid analysis could also include characterizations, e.g. further evaluation of ellipsometric data by using numerical simulations.
This report contains detailed information on the preparation of the reference material as well as on homogeneity and stability investigations of the property of interest, the equivalent particle diameter, and on the analytical methods to determine the additional properties. The values for particle size distribution are based on the results from laser diffraction measurements of 3 different devices with at least 3 replicate measurements of 4 randomly chosen units of the reference material P206.
This contributions shows the first results of the ongoing interlaboratory comparisons under VAMAS/TWA 34 Nanoparticle populations related on the determination of pasrticle size distribution and relative concentration of nanoparticles and an example of an ILC running under VAMAS/TWA 41 Graphene and Related 2D Materials on the determination of the lateral diemsnions of graphene oxide flakes by Scanning Electron Microscopy. The link to related standardisation projects at ISO/TC Nanotechnologies are explained.
Advanced materials, such as nanomaterials, 2D materials, or thin films, play a crucial role in driving economic development and addressing major challenges in the coming years. These challenges include mitigating the impact of climate change, advancing lightweight engineering, enhancing catalysis, and improving medical applications.
To comprehend the performance of these materials and ensure their acceptance across various sectors as safe and sustainable for both humans and the environment, the availability of reference procedures, materials, and data is essential. One versatile tool for establishing such references and evaluating the proficiency of individual laboratories and their competencies is through (international) interlaboratory comparisons (ILC). Notably, initiatives like the Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards (VAMAS) provide a platform for conducting ILCs.
This webinar will showcase various examples of interlaboratory comparisons, illustrating their impact on the development of reference products.
The presentation includes aspects of material design and characterization with a focus on lignin. Examples are the structural elucidation of lignosulfonates by means of two-dimensional chromatography, the mechanochemical degradation and functionalization of Kraft-Lignin with accompanying analytics. Future projects involving the incorporation of lignin into polymers will be presented.
A thousand times thinner than a human hair, nanoparticles (NPs) are finding applications in a range of modern products. However, as some can affect human health or the environment, knowing the types present is essential. Electron microscopy is the ‘gold standard’ for NP analysis, allowing identification based on manual size analysis, but a new method was required to analyse these particles quickly, accurately and in a consistent way.
Discotic ionic liquid crystals (DILCs) consist of self-assembled superdiscs of cations and anions that spontaneously stack in linear columns with high one-dimensional ionic and electronic charge mobility, making them prominent model systems for functional soft matter. Compared to classical nonionic discotic liquid crystals, many liquid crystalline structures with a combination of electronic and ionic conductivity have been reported, which are of interest for separation membranes, artificial ion/proton conducting membranes, and optoelectronics. Unfortunately, a homogeneous alignment of the DILCs on the macroscale is often not achievable, which significantly limits the applicability of DILCs. Infiltration into nanoporous solid scaffolds can, in principle, overcome this drawback. However, due to the experimental challenges to scrutinize liquid crystalline order in extreme spatial confinement, little is known about the structures of DILCs in nanopores. Here, we present temperaturedependent high-resolution optical birefringence measurement and 3D reciprocal space mapping based on synchrotron X-ray scattering to investigate the thermotropic phase behavior of dopamine-based ionic liquid crystals confined in cylindrical channels of 180 nm diameter in macroscopic anodic aluminum oxide membranes. As a function of the membranes’ hydrophilicity and thus the molecular anchoring to the pore walls (edge-on or face-on) and the variation of the hydrophilic−hydrophobic balance between the aromatic cores and the alkyl side chain motifs of the superdiscs by tailored chemical synthesis, we find a particularly rich phase behavior, which is not present in the bulk state. It is governed by a complex interplay of liquid crystalline elastic energies (bending and splay deformations), polar interactions, and pure geometric confinement and includes textural transitions between radial and axial alignment of the columns with respect to the long nanochannel axis. Furthermore, confinement-induced continuous order formation is observed in contrast to discontinuous first-order phase transitions, which can be quantitatively described by Landau-de Gennes free energy models for liquid crystalline order transitions in confinement. Our observations suggest that the infiltration of DILCs into nanoporous solids allows tailoring their nanoscale texture and ion channel formation and thus their electrical and optical functionalities over an even wider range than in the bulk state in a homogeneous manner on the centimeter scale as controlled by the monolithic nanoporous scaffolds.
The talk summarizes challenges in microplastic analysis. It shows the preparation of microplastic reference materials as well as the testing on homogeneity and stability. The reference material is used in an international laboratory comparison to compare different detection methods used for microplastic analysis. The methods used were µ-IR (FTIR+LDIR) for number-based methods and TED-GC/MS and Py-GC/MS for mass-based methods. The ILC was done under the umbrella of VAMAS TWA 45. Results of the participants are presented.
Multiphoton lithography (MPL), an emerging microfabrication technique, shows great potential in a variety of applications ranging from tissue engineering to soft micro-robotics. Fabricated micro-objects often are expected to undergo shape morphing or bending. Furthermore, ensuring precise property tuning becomes detrimental for the functionality of MPL microstructures. Herein, we present novel MPL materials based on interpenetrating networks (IPNs), which effectively combine the advantages of acrylate and epoxy thermoset systems. A library of 3D MPL IPN microstructures with high 3D structural stability and tailored thermal and micromechanical properties is achieved. MPL laser velocity and fabrication power can be used to tune the morphology and therefore properties of IPN. New IPN microstructures with materials Young's moduli of 4 to 6 MPa demonstrate susceptibility to deformation with high to fully elastic response. Such soft elastic materials hold immense promise within morphable microsystems, soft micro-robotics and cell engineering applications.
Since microplastics (MPs) can be found everywhere and are becoming a problem of high concern, it is necessary to understand their physico-chemical properties. To obtain reliable analytical data a set of validated methods for sampling, sample preparation, detection, and data evaluation are needed.
To meet these needs an interlaboratory comparison (ILC) with 84 participants worldwide has been organized under the international pre-standardisation platform VAMAS (www.vamas.org/twa45/) as Project 2 “Development of standardized methodologies for characterisation of microplastics with microscopy and spectroscopy methods” within the Technical Working Area TWA 45 “Micro and Nano Plastics in the Environment”. In this ILC thermo-analytical methods (Py-GC/MS and TED-GC/MS) and vibrational methods (µ-Raman and µ-FTIR) have been tested and compared by providing a set of microplastic representative test materials and measurement protocols developed at BAM. The defined measurands were: particle number concentration, particle size distribution (PSD), and polymer identity and mass content. To increase the statistical quality, 6 samples were shipped together with blank samples. Hence, the ILC provides information on precision and accuracy of the results obtained with different methods as well as strengths and limitations of the proposed protocols.
Since microplastics (MPs) can be found everywhere and are becoming a problem of high concern, it is necessary to understand their occurrence and fate in the environment. However, to obtain data of high quality is very challenging, since measurement operating procedures differ from laboratory to laboratory. Currently, there are no standardized methods to analyze microplastics. One promissing possibility to adress standardization of the methodology and operating procedures are interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs). In this contribution we report the first results of an ILC on microplastic detection methods organized under the pre-stantdardisation plattform of VAMAS (www.vamas.org/twa45/) as Project 2 “Development of standardized methodologies for characterisation of microplastics with microscopy and spectroscopy methods”, within the Technical Working Area TWA 45 “Micro and Nano Plastics in the Environment”. The ILC has gathered 84 participants all over the world representing all continents. BAM, as the project leader, produced a set of reference microplastic materials, which have been distributed to all the participants together with the measurement protocols and reporting data templates.
Microplastic and nanoplastic particles (MNP) are spread all over the world in various types, shapes and sizes making it very challenging to accurately analyse them. Each sampling procedure, sample preparation method and detection technique needs suitable reference materials to validate the method for accurate results. Furthermore, the effects of these MNPs should be evaluated by risk and hazard assessment with test particles close to reality. To better understand MNP behavior and aid in clarification of their interactions with organisms, we produced several MNP materials by top-down procedure and characterized their properties. Since surface properties mostly determine particles’ toxicity, the aim of the present study was to determine which functional groups are present on MNPs and how the surface can be affected by the production process and particle’s environment.