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- Gas sorption (3)
- Molecular modeling (3)
- Neutron diffraction (3)
- Residual stress (3)
- Swelling (3)
- Diffusion (2)
- Dilation (2)
- Poly(ether sulfones) (2)
- Simulation (2)
- Structural health monitoring (2)
Organisationseinheit der BAM
- 8 Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung (8)
- 8.5 Röntgenbildgebung (6)
- 5 Werkstofftechnik (3)
- 5.1 Mikrostruktur Design und Degradation (3)
- 9 Komponentensicherheit (3)
- 6 Materialchemie (2)
- 6.6 Physik und chemische Analytik der Polymere (2)
- 7 Bauwerkssicherheit (2)
- 7.5 Technische Eigenschaften von Polymerwerkstoffen (2)
- 9.4 Integrität von Schweißverbindungen (2)
Der vorliegende Fachartikel stellt die wichtigsten zerstörungsfreien Prüfmethoden zur Qualitätssicherung von dünnen Strukturklebungen vor. Auf diese Weise wird ersichtlich, welche Methoden neben der zerstörenden Prüfung von dünnen Strukturklebungen eingesetzt werden können, um einen Haftfestigkeitsverlust zu detektieren. Steigende Leichtbau- und Dämpfungsanforderungen an großflächige Blechbauteile sorgen trotz erhöhter Kosten für einen zunehmenden Einsatz von modernen hybriden Schichtverbundwerkstoffen in zahlreichen Konstruktionsanwendungen. In der Luft- und Raumfahrtindustrie gehören solche Werkstoffe seit geraumer Zeit zum aktuellen Stand der Technik, wohingegen diese Werkstoffkonzepte in der mobilen Großserie derzeit nur selten zum Einsatz kommen. Neben dem Materialversagen der einzelnen Schichten von Schichtverbundwerkstoffen spielt das interlaminare Versagen der Schichten untereinander eine entscheidende Rolle. In der Umformtechnik ist es möglich, dass die polymere Zwischenschicht und das Deckblech nach der Umformung noch in Kontakt stehen, obwohl die Scherfestigkeit bereits überschritten wurde. Dieser Kraftschluss der beiden Fügepartner resultiert aus den schwachen Van-der-Waals-Kräften, die eine eindeutige Detektion mit Hilfe von zerstörungsfreier Prüfung erschweren. Die vorliegende Publikation soll die Eignung diverser zerstörungsfreier Prüfverfahren auf die Detektion von sogenannten „kissing bonds“ (schwaches Anhaften der Schichten nach Versagen der Verbindung) überprüfen.
Disklike molecules with aromatic cores spontaneously stack up in linear columns with high, onedimensional charge carrier mobilities along the columnar axes, making them prominent model systems for functional, self-organized matter.We show by high-resolution optical birefringence and synchrotron-based x-ray diffraction that confining a thermotropic discotic liquid crystal in cylindrical nanopores induces a quantized formation of annular layers consisting of concentric circular bent columns, unknown in the bulk state. Starting from the walls this ring self-assembly propagates layer by layer towards the pore center in the supercooled domain of the bulk isotropic-columnar transition and thus allows one to switch on and off reversibly single, nanosized rings through small temperature variations. By establishing a Gibbs free energy phase diagram we trace the phase transition quantization to the discreteness of the layers’ excess bend deformation energies in comparison to the thermal energy, even for this near room-temperature system.
Monte Carlo simulations yielding spatially resolved nematic order parameters, density maps, and bondorientational order parameters corroborate the universality and robustness of the confinement-induced columnar ring formation as well as its quantized nature.
While there is a large body of literature on the micro-mechanical behavior of metal matrix composites (MMCs) under uniaxial applied stress, very little is available on multi-phase MMCs. In order to cast light on the reinforcement mechanisms and damage processes in such multi-phase composites, materials made by an Al-based piston alloy and containing one and two ceramic reinforcements (planar-random oriented alumina fibers and SiC particles) were studied. In-situ compression tests during neutron diffraction experiments were used to track the load transfer among phases, while X-ray computed tomography on pre-strained samples was used to monitor and quantify damage. We found that damage progresses differently in composites with different orientations of the fiber mat. Because of the presence of intermetallic network, it was observed that the second ceramic reinforcement changed the load transfer scenario only at very high applied load, when also intermetallic particles break. We rationalized the present results combining them with previous investigations and using a micromechanical model.
Nanoporous media exhibit structures significantly smaller than the wavelengths of visible light and can thus act as photonic metamaterials. Their optical functionality is not determined by the properties of the base materials, but rather by tailored, multiscale structures, in terms of precise pore shape, geometry, and orientation. Embedding liquid crystals in pore space provides additional opportunities to control light–matter interactions at the single-pore, meta-atomic scale. Here, we present temperature-dependent 3D reciprocal space mapping using synchrotron-based X-ray diffraction in combination with high-Resolution birefringence experiments on disk-like mesogens (HAT6) imbibed in self-ordered arrays of parallel cylindrical pores 17 to 160 nm across in monolithic anodic aluminium oxide (AAO). In agreement with Monte Carlo computer simulations we observe a remarkably rich self-assembly behaviour, unknown from the bulk state. It encompasses transitions between the isotropic liquid state and discotic stacking in linear columns as well as circular concentric ring formation perpendicular and parallel to the pore axis. These textural transitions underpin an optical birefringence functionality, tuneable in magnitude and in sign from positive to negative via pore size, pore surface-grafting and temperature. Our study demonstrates that the advent of large-scale, self-organised nanoporosity in monolithic solids along with confinement-controllable phase behaviour of liquid-crystalline matter at the single-pore scale provides a reliable and accessible tool to design materials with adjustable optical anisotropy, and thus offers versatile pathways to finetune polarisation-dependent light propagation speeds in materials. Such a tailorability is at the core of the emerging field of transformative optics, allowing, e.g., adjustable light absorbers and extremely thin metalenses.
This study provides an analysis on the fire safety of passengers and the fire protection of coaches and buses. A brief review of major bus fire incidents, an overview of current regulations in Europe, and their limitations are presented. The study finds that the current small-scale fire test methods described in UN ECE Reg No. 118 need to be replaced by test methods that can assess the reaction to fire of materials when exposed to ignition sources of varying sizes. To address these shortcomings, the study proposed an expert recommendation to update the material fire safety requirements and testing for buses. Additional measures are proposed, derived from objectives and strategies applied in other transport sectors, and can be tested through existing European and international standards, which are widely used by several industries. These measures aim to extend the time with tenable conditions for a safe evacuation in case of fire, reduce the degree of damage to buses, reduce the risk for fast and excessive thermal exposure on modern energy carriers needed for a more sustainable transport sector.
The analysis of the current state of fire statistics and data collection in Europe and other countries is needed to increase awareness of how fire incidents affect buildings and to support pan-European fire prevention and fire mitigation measures.
The terminology and data collected regarding fire incidents in buildings in the EU Member States were mapped to obtain meaningful datasets to determine common terminology, collection methodology, and data interpretation system. An extensive literature review showed that fire data collection systems have been instrumental in informing firefighting strategies, evidence-based planning, prevention, and educational programmes. Differences and similarities between fire data collection systems were also investigated. The amount and quality of the information in fire statistical recording systems appear to be influenced by the complexity and structure with which the data are collected. The analysis also examined the existing fire statistics in the EU Member States and a few other countries. Finally, a detailed investigation of the number of fires, fire deaths, and injuries from 2009 to 2018 in several countries was examined based on data from a report by CTIF. The trends showed differences attributable to the existing fire statistical practices in terms of terminology and data
collection, and interpretation. Part II proposes a common terminology for selected fire statistical variables. The results provide relevant information regarding fire safety at the European level and should be used to guide the development of more uniform fire statistics across Europe.
Detailed atomistic simulations were carried out for swelling polymer/gas systems related to experimental sorption and dilation data for CO2 and CH4 in three glassy polymers (polysulfone PSU, the polyimide 6FDA-TrMPD, and a polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1) at 308 K (35 °C) and pressures up to 50 bar. Corresponding experiments were performed with a gravimetric sorption balance and a dilatometer based on a capacitance distance sensor. For each polymer/gas system molecular packing models were prepared and equilibrated for two reference states: the pure polymer is taken as reference for the respective 'unswollen' state and similarly the state of the highest penetrant pressure reached in the corresponding experiment is taken to represent the 'swollen' state. Models for the latter were constructed in agreement with experimental data (pressure, temperature, gas concentration and volume dilation). Concentration–pressure isotherms of each polymer/gas system were obtained using Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations for both reference states (depleted of gas molecules), which are in good agreement with the experimental data in the respective pressure range. As expected these isotherms – due to the simulation technique used, merely based on hole-filling in a static host matrix – do not represent the sorption behavior over a broader range of gas pressures which may involve significant structural rearrangements as well as swelling and relaxational phenomena. Nevertheless, a linear combination of the two GCMC-isotherms allows the interpolation in order to describe the nonlinear gas sorption in the glassy polymers under investigation covering the penetrant pressure range between the reference states in good agreement with the experimental results.
Atomistic packing models have been created, which help to better understand the experimentally observed swelling behavior of glassy polysulfone and poly (ether sulfone), under CO2 gas pressures up to 50 bar at 308 K. The experimental characterization includes the measurement of the time-dependent volume dilation of the polymer samples after a pressure step and the determination of the corresponding gas concentrations by gravimetric gas-sorption measurements. The models obtained by force-field-based molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics methods allow a detailed atomistic analysis of representative swelling states of polymer/gas systems, with respect to the dilation of the matrix. Also, changes of free volume distribution and backbone mobility are accessible. The behavior of gas molecules in unswollen and swollen polymer matrices is characterized in terms of sorption, diffusion, and plasticization.
We discuss the stability of weld residual strain under static and quasi cyclic transverse tensile loading in the elastic and elastic–plastic region. The test welds were joined with low transformation temperature weld filler materials with 10 wt% Cr and varying Ni-content from 8 to 12 wt%. Using neutron diffraction the residual lattice strain in the martensitic α'- and austenitic γ-phase in the fusion zone as well as the ferritic α-phase in the heat affected zone and base metal as induced by welding, superimposed by stepwise tensile loading and after unloading was measured. The amount of retained austenite in the fusion zone increases with increasing Ni-content, but it decreases with increasing load level due to stress induced martensite formation. In the as-welded condition the transverse macroscopic residual lattice strain was found to be in low compression in the fusion zone in each weld, while the heat affected zone was in tension. Local plastic deformation of the γ-phase as a result of yielding during tensile loading in combination with the change in phase fraction resulted in increased macroscopic compression in the fusion zone. The reduced yield strength in the heat affected zone resulted in plastic deformation and a considerable shift into compression. Comparison with the cross weld distribution of the hardness and FWHM of the neutron diffraction interference lines supported the assumption of plastic deformation of the γ- and α-phase in the fusion and heat affected zone, respectively, while the α'-phase in the fusion zone was stressed within the elastic regime only. Microstructural observations as well as measurement of the local γ-phase fraction by means of laboratory X-ray diffraction in the fusion zone strengthen these observations.
A molecular modeling investigation of dilation effects induced by sorbed gas molecules in two glassy polymers is presented. As experimental reference, integral sorption of CO2 and CH4 was measured for polysulfone (PSU) and a polyimide (6FDA-TrMPD, PI4) at 308 K and a pressure of 10 bar. Simultaneously, the gas induced swelling effect was measured with a dilatometer based on a capacitive distance sensor recorded. The experimental evidence of the (on the observed time scale and concentration levels) elastic nature of the gas induced dilation is supported by the dilation and contraction behavior observed in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of respective detailed atomistic packing models. These models were constructed in accordance with gas concentration levels obtained from the experimental sorption results. Quantitative deviations between simulated and measured dilations are discussed as a consequence of an anelastic response of the polymer matrix which is too fast to be resolved in the experiments whose kinetics is dominated by diffusional processes. In the simulation, the initial insertion of penetrant molecules into equilibrated packing models circumvents the slow diffusional process of the experiment and allows a reasonable representation of the dilation process as well as a closer investigation. Our simulation approach reveals a different behavior for PSU and PI4 on the corresponding time scale. Most likely, the different chain mobility of the two polymers is responsible for the respective response to the inserted amount of gas molecules which is discussed in terms of the different chain mobilities of the two polymers.
Zur Gründung von Bauwerken auf weichen, gering tragfähigen Böden werden unter anderem Betonpfähle, einzeln oder in Pfahlgruppen, eingesetzt. Deren Bewertung bzgl. Tragverhalten bzw. Integrität ist bei bestimmten Baugrundverhältnissen und Pfahlgeometrien schwierig. Hierfür werden statische und dynamische Pfahlprüfungen durchgeführt. Aus Messwerten vom Pfahlkopf bzw. vom oberen Pfahlbereich werden üblicherweise die notwendigen Aussagen abgeleitet. Eine genauere Bewertung ist möglich, wenn präzise Messwerte über die gesamte Pfahllänge vorliegen. Deshalb wurden hochauflösende betoneinbettbare Messwertaufnehmer auf Basis von Faser-Fabry-Perot-Sensoren entwickelt, die in Modell- und in realen Rammpfählen getestet wurden. Der Beitrag beschreibt den Sensor, die Installation und exemplarisch einige Testergebnisse zur Erfassung der Wellenausbreitung im Modellpfahl. Feldtests wurden zurzeit der Erstellung des Manuskripts erfolgreich begonnen.
Reinforced concrete piles are often used for structures on non-sufficiently bearing soil areas. Assessment of bearing capacity and bearing behaviour of large concrete piles remains a difficult task under specific soil conditions and pile geometries. Usually static and dynamic pile tests are carried out for quality assurance. From dynamic measurements taken only from the pile head, the bearing behaviour and structural integrity can be derived using the one-dimensional theory of wave propagation. More precise information about the pile features can be achieved by highly resolving fibre-optic sensors based on Fabry-Perot technology, distributed over several locations along the pile length. Small scale piles and real driven piles have been tested. This paper describes the sensor, the sensor installation, and experimental results of tests in laboratory as well as test results for recording the wave propagation in the small scale piles.
In structural engineering timber is appreciated due to its low weight, its high aesthetic quality and because it is a renewable resource. The market share of timber structures and wood based hybrid structures will clearly increase over the next few years due to greater environmental awareness and a higher demand for sustainability. However, building with timber is marked by characteristics which lead to significant disadvantages in comparison wifh technical materials. For example, in outdoor areas Chemical and structural approaches offen lead to unsatisfactory and expensive Solutions with respect to durability. An idea is to make natural lumber a high-performance material which can be designed to meet the engineers’ demands conceming strength, stiffness, durability, shape, safety etc. These changes can affect the material itself, new technologies or a new approach to monitoring. Especially hybrids made of common timber products and technical textiles or enhanced timber products are high-capacitive and reach high bearing strengths with low material input and good durability. These hybrids are particularly qualified to use the advantages of wood and minimize the disadvantages. They can be used in different ways for load bearing structures, i.e. bridges. New construction types need monitoring to observe the stress and strains for which they were designed, and the structures’ behaviour as well as to guarantee required safety levels. The aim of successful usage of fibre optic measurement technology in timber elements was the development of a technology for measuring the lengthening in timber elements and wood based hybrid elements by using fibre optic sensors. The scientific and technical challenge was to develop an applicationtechnology for optical glass fibres in timber and densified veneer wood.
In laboratory tests as well as with the erection of a footbridge and during in-situ tests it could be shown that the structurally integrated fibre optic sensor technology used is suitable for short and long term measurement. The developed embedment technology tums out to be practical and fit for good transfer of strain-values from timber to the modified sensor fibres.
Scanning Manufacturing Parameters Determining the Residual Stress State in LPBF IN718 Small Parts
(2021)
The influence of scan strategy on the residual stress (RS) state of an as-built IN718 alloy produced by means of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is investigated. Two scan vector rotations (90°-alternation and 67°-rotation), each produced following two different scan vector lengths (long and short), are used to manufacture four rectangular prisms. Neutron diffraction (ND) and laboratory X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques are used to map the bulk and surface RS state, respectively. The distortion induced upon removal from the baseplate is measured via profilometry. XRD measurements show that the two long scan vector strategies lead to higher RS when compared with the equivalent short scan vector strategies. Also, the 67°-rotation strategies generate lower RS than their 90°-alternation counterparts. Due to the lack of reliable stress-free d0 references, the ND results are analyzed using von Mises stress. In general, ND results show significant RS spatial non-uniformity. A comparison between ND and distortion results indicates that the RS component parallel to the building direction (Z-axis) has a predominant role in the Z-displacement. The use of a stress balance scheme allows to discuss the d0 variability along the length of the specimens, as well as examine the absolute RS state.
An experimental and numerical investigation of the effect of bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) (BDP) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) on the fire behaviour of bisphenol A polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS) in the vertical UL 94 scenario is presented. Four PC/ABS blends were discussed, which satisfy different UL 94 classifications due to the competing effects of gasification, charring, flame inhibition and melt flow/dripping. For numerical investigation, the particle finite element method (PFEM) is used. Its capability to model the complex fire behaviour of polymers in the UL 94 is analysed. The materials' properties are characterised, in particular the additives impact on the dripping behaviour during thermal exposure. BDP is an efficient plasticiser; adding PTFE prevents dripping by causing a flow limit. PFEM simulations reproduce the dripping and burning behaviour, in particular the competition between gasification and dripping. The thermal impact of both the burner and the flame is approximated taking into account flame inhibition, charring and effective heat of combustion. PFEM is a promising numerical tool for the investigation of the fire behaviour of polymers, particularly when large deformations are involved. Not only the principal phenomena but also the different UL 94 classifications and the extinction times are well predicted.
Um den Anforderungen der Bauordnung an den Brandschutz für Gebäude gerecht zu werden, sind bauliche Anlagen so zu errichten und zu betreiben, dass der Entstehung eines Brandes und der Ausbreitung von Feuer und Rauch vorgebeugt, die Rettung von Menschen und Tieren sowie wirksame Löscharbeiten ermöglicht werden.
Hierbei besteht, einer steigenden Komplexität sowie einem differenzierten Nutzungskonzept öffentlicher Gebäude geschuldet, häufig die Notwendigkeit von normativen Vorgaben abzuweichen und dennoch ein gleichwertiges Sicherheitsniveau nachzuweisen.
Es werden Personensimulationsmodelle eingesetzt, die einerseits das Vorhandensein eines Schutzzielniveaus durch die Abbildungen von Personenbewegungen nachweisen können und andererseits durch Parametervariation eine szenarienabhängige Betrachtung ermöglichen.
Der vorliegende Beitrag vergleicht die Ergebnisse einer kleinskaligen Evakuierungsübung mit drei mikroskopischen Personensimulationsmodellen und geht der Frage nach der Aussagekraft dieser Bewertungsmethode nach. Es zeigt sich, dass die alleinige Betrachtung absoluter Entleerungszeiten keine zuverlässige Beurteilungsgrundlage für das komplexe Schutzziel Personensicherheit darstellt.
Despite their immense and rapidly increasing
importance as analytical tools or therapeutic drugs, the detailed
structural features of particular monoclonal antibodies are
widely unknown. Here, an antibody already in use for diagnostic
purposes and for molecular dosimetry studies in cancer therapy
with very high affinity and specificity for cisplatin-induced DNA
modifications was studied extensively. The molecular structure
and modifications as well as the antigen specificity were
investigated mainly by mass spectrometry. Using nano electrospray
ionization mass spectrometry, it was possible to characterize the antibody in its native state. Tandem-MS experiments not
only revealed specific fragments but also gave information on the molecular structure. The detailed primary structure was further
elucidated by proteolytic treatment with a selection of enzymes and high resolution tandem-MS. The data were validated by
comparison with known antibody sequences. Then, the complex glycan structures bound to the antibody were characterized in
all detail. The Fc-bound oligosaccharides were released enzymatically and studied by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization
mass spectrometry. Overall 16 different major glycan structures were identified. The binding specificity of the antibody was
investigated by applying synthetic single and double stranded DNA oligomers harboring distinct Pt adducts. The antibody−
antigen complexes were analyzed by mass spectrometry under native conditions. The stability of the complex with double
stranded DNA was also investigated.
Mass spectrometry is applied as a tool for the elucidation of molecular structures. This premises that gas-phase structures reflect the original geometry of the analytes, while it requires a thorough understanding and investigation of the forces controlling and affecting the gas-phase structures. However, only little is known about conformational changes of oligonucleotides in the gas phase. In this study, a series of multiply charged DNA oligonucleotides (n¼15–40) has been subjected to a comprehensive tandem mass spectrometric study to unravel transitions between different ionic gas-phase structures. The nucleobase sequence and the chain length were varied to gain insights into their influence on the geometrical oligonucleotide organization. Altogether, 23 oligonucleotides were analyzed using collision-induced fragmentation. All sequences showed comparable correlation regarding the characteristic collision energy. This value that is also a measure for stability, strongly correlates with the net charge density of the precursor ions. With decreasing charge of the oligonucleotides, an increase in the fragmentation energy was observed. At a distinct charge density, a deviation from linearity was observed for all studied species, indicating a structural reorganization. To corroborate the proposed geometrical change, collisional cross-sections of the oligonucleotides at different charge states were determined using ion mobility-mass spectrometry. The results clearly indicate that an increase in charge density and thus Coulomb repulsion results in the transition from a folded, compact form to elongated structures of the precursor ions. Our data show this structural transition to depend mainly on the charge density, whereas sequence and size do not have an influence.
The presence of wastewater and air pollution has become an important risk factor for citizens, not only in terms of problems related to health risks, but also because of its negative impact on the country's image. For this reason, malodorous emission monitoring and control techniques are in high demand in urban areas and industries. The aim of this work is first to build an electronic nose (e-nose) and a Voltammetric Electronic tongue (VE-tongue) in order to study their ability to discriminate between polluted and clean environmental samples. Secondly, Thermal Desorption-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC-MS), and Solid Phase Micro Extraction-Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) are utilized to explain this discrimination by identifying specific compounds from these samples. Indeed, the e-nose, consisted of metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors, is used for the assessment of the studied odorous air and headspace samples from water and wastewater sites. Moreover, the VE-tongue, based on metal electrodes, is utilized to determine the patterns of the sensor array responses, which serve as fingerprints profiles of the analyzed liquid samples. Chemometric tools, such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Support Vector Machines (SVMs) are operated for the processing of data from the e-nose and the VE-tongue. By using the both systems, the analyses of headspace and liquid samples from the seven sites allow better discrimination. To explain the cause of the obtained discrimination, TD-GC-MS and SPME-GC-MS analyses are well performed to identify compounds related sites. According to these outcomes, the proposed e-nose and VE-tongue are proved to be rapid and valuable tools for analysis of environmental polluted matrices.
Explaining Deviatoric Residual Stresses in Aluminum Matrix Composites with Complex Microstructure
(2020)
The residual stresses in multiphase metal Matrix composites with both random planar-oriented short fibers and particles were studied by neutron diffraction and by a model based on the reformulation of classic Maxwell’s homogenization method. Contrary to common understanding and state-of-the-art models, we experimentally observed that randomly oriented phases possess non-hydrostatic residual stress. The recently developed modeling Approach allows calculating the residual stress in all phases of the composites. It rationalizes the presence of deviatoric stresses Accounting for the interaction of random oriented phases with fibers having preferential orientation.
According to the objectives of the research group 1498, this paper deals with degradation effects in concrete structures that are caused by cyclic flexural loading. The goal is to determine their influence on the fluid transport processes within the material on the basis of experimental results and numerical simulations. The overall question was, to which extent the ingress of externally supplied alkalis and subsequently an alkali-silica reaction are affected by such modifications in the microstructure. Degradation in the concrete microstructure is characterized by ultrasonic wave measurements as well as by microscopic crack analysis. Furthermore, experiments on the penetration behavior of water into the investigated materials were performed. The penetration behavior into predamaged concrete microstructures was examined by the classical Karsten tube experiment, nuclear magnetic resonance method, and time domain reflectometry techniques. In order to create an appropriate model of the material's degradation on the water transport, the Darcy law was applied to describe the flow in partially saturated concrete. Material degradation is taken into account by an effective permeability that is dependent on the state of degradation. This effective permeability is obtained by the micromechanical homogenisation of the flow in an Representative Elementary Volume (REV) with distributed ellipsoidal microcracks embedded in a porous medium. The data gained in the microscopic crack analysis is used as input for the micromechanical model. Finite element simulations for unsaturated flow using the micromechanical model were compared with the experimental results showing good qualitative and quantitative agreement.
Static and dynamic pile tests are carried out to determine the load bearing capacity and the quality of reinforced concrete piles. As part of a round robin test to evaluate dynamic load tests, structure integrated fibre optic strain sensors were used to receive more detailed information about the strains along the pile length compared to conventional measurements at the pile head. This paper shows the instrumentation of the pile with extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometers sensors and fibre Bragg gratings sensors together with the results of the conducted static load test as well as the dynamic load Tests and pile integrity tests.
Engineered barriers are a key element to enable safe nuclear waste disposal. One method currently under research for their construction is magnesia concrete applied in a shotcrete procedure. In this study, the ultrasonic echo method is evaluated as a means for quality assurance. Imaging of internal structures (backwall, boreholes) and defects, such as delamination, has successfully been achieved in the shotcrete. Additionally, detailed information about the potential cause of selected reflectors are obtained by phase analysis. In several test blocks of various sizes, no consistent concrete section boundaries have been found by ultrasonic imaging, which was verified by subsequent drilling and complementary tests. An experiment with artificial defects imitating cracks, air-filled voids, and material with lower density has been challenging and shows the limitations of the current methods. Although significant defects, such as a large delamination, are reliably identified, several smaller defects are not identified. Generally, ultrasonic imaging provides a suitable base as a mean for quality assurance during and after the construction of sealing structures. However, further developments are required to enhance the reliability of the method and a full validation is still pending. Still, the method has potential to increase the safety of nuclear waste repositories.
The determination of residual stresses becomes more complicated with increasing complexity of the structures investigated. Additive manufacturing techniques generally allow the production of ‘lattice structures’ without any additional manufacturing step. These lattice structures consist of thin struts and are thus susceptible to internal stress-induced distortion and even cracks. In most cases, internal stresses remain locked in the structures as residual stress.
The determination of the residual stress in lattice structures through nondestructive neutron diffraction is described in this work. It is shown how two difficulties can be overcome: (a) the correct alignment of the lattice structures within the neutron beam and (b) the correct determination of the residual stress field in a representative part of the structure. The magnitude and the direction of residual stress are discussed. The residual stress in the strut was found to be uniaxial and to follow the orientation of the strut, while the residual stress in the knots was more hydrostatic. Additionally, it is shown that strain measurements in at least seven independent directions are necessary for the estimation of the principal stress directions. The measurement directions should be chosen according to the sample geometry and an informed choice on the possible strain field. If the most prominent direction is not measured, the error in the calculated stress magnitude increases considerably.
High energy X-ray synchrotron diffraction is used to investigate the elastic anisotropy of the nickel-based superalloy IN718 produced by laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB). This material is characterized by a columnar grain morphology with some crystallographic texture. The material is subjected to elastic loading to determine the diffraction elastic constants (DECs). Furthermore, the single-crystal elastic constants (SCEC) are refined from these experiments using different micromechanical models. The results show that each micromechanical model predicts a specific set of SCEC that well describes the elastic anisotropy of PBF-LB/IN718.
Rapid cooling rates and steep temperature gradients are characteristic of additively manufactured parts and important factors for the residual stress formation. This study examined the influence of heat accumulation on the distribution of residual stress in two prisms produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of austenitic stainless steel 316L. The layers of the prisms were exposed using two different border fill scan strategies: one scanned from the centre to the perimeter and the other from the perimeter to the centre. The goal was to reveal the effect of different heat inputs on samples featuring the same solidification shrinkage. Residual stress was characterised in one plane perpendicular to the building direction at the mid height using Neutron and Lab X-ray diffraction. Thermography data obtained during the build process were analysed in order to correlate the cooling rates and apparent surface temperatures with the residual stress results. Optical microscopy and micro computed tomography were used to correlate defect populations with the residual stress distribution. The two scanning strategies led to residual stress distributions that were typical for additively manufactured components: compressive stresses in the bulk and tensile stresses at the surface. However, due to the different heat accumulation, the maximum residual stress levels differed. We concluded that solidification shrinkage plays a major role in determining the shape of the residual stress distribution, while the temperature gradient mechanism appears to determine the magnitude of peak residual stresses.