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Lithium-ion batteries are a key technology for tackling challenges in energy and climate crisis, but up to 30 % are discarded right after production. Quality is closely related to the homogeneity of the used materials and coatings. Fluorine compounds, both in the polymer and from degradation of the electrolyte, are of special interest for the formation and aging of LIBs. Glow-discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GD-OES) emerged as a fast and convenient method for depth-profiling of battery materials. However, fluorine remains a spectroscopic challenge due to a high excitation energy and only few strong emission lines in the UV/Vis spectral range.
We investigated the partial substitution of argon with neon in the plasma gas. The main emission line at 685.603 nm was monitored by both photo multiplier tube (PMT) with Czerny-Turner monochromator at 20 µm slit-size, and charge-coupled device (CCD) with 1200 lines/mm grating. For calibration, we used a set of hot-pressed copper cylinders with varying calcium fluoride amount fraction, ranging from 1.6 % to 4.4 %. Plasma gas mixtures with a mole fraction of 5 %, 10 % and 20 % neon in argon were used. Sensitivity in comparison to pure argon was increased by factor 4, 7 and 14, respectively. In general, PMT detection was more sensitive than CCD. As expected, sputter rates decreased with higher neon content in the plasma gas. Depth-profiling of the cathodes was performed in pulsed mode at constant voltage and pressure, which resulted in stable plasma conditions. We achieve matrix-independent quantitative information on fluorine distribution by correction based on sputter rates.
This advancement in GD-OES provides a more accurate analytical approach for evaluating the homogeneity of lithium-ion battery materials, potentially leading to more sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing processes.
To address the challenges of the climate crisis, multiple solutions for sustainable energy sources and storage systems are needed. One such solution is lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Currently, 5 to 30 % of LIBs are discarded immediately after manufacturing. The homogeneous distribution of all materials used in the coating of cathodes and anodes is critical for the quality of LIBs. Furthermore, during formation i.e., the first steps of the charge/discharge cycling, the solid-electrolyte interphase forms on the anode particles, which has a huge impact on the performance. The same happens to some extent on the cathode, forming the cathode-electrolyte interphase. Fluorinated polymers and electrolytes are used in the manufacturing of LIBs. The electrolyte in particular is prone to degradation during formation and aging of the batteries. The interface of the cathode material with the aluminum current collector is also a critical point where degraded fluorine components cause pitting corrosion and at the same time promote passivation of the metal foil. Monitoring the spatial distribution of fluorine on these surfaces and interfaces is essential for sustainable LIB production.
In order to reduce global warming, the use of hydrogen as a renewable energy source is becoming more important. To enable this transition, unprecedently large amounts of hydrogen need to be safely transported and stored. Since hydrogen is usually stored and transported under pressure, one scenario to be considered is the release of hydrogen from a leakage with subsequent ignition. The resulting jet flame must be characterized with respect to the thermal radiation emitted into the environment to define safety distances. Various models that characterize the resulting flame shape and radiation already exist in the literature, but these are mainly based on empirical data from hydrocarbon jet flames. To verify the applicability of these models to hydrogen, real-scale tests are carried out at the BAM Test Site for Technical Safety (BAM-TTS) with the aim to assess the flame geometry and the emitted thermal radiation. Parameters such as leakage diameter (currently up to 30 mm), pressure (currently up to max. 250 bar) and mass flow (up to max. 0.5 kg/s) are varied. In particular, the focus will be laid on the measurement and modelling of the thermal radiation. The challenge here is the characterization of the flame geometry in an open environment and its impact on the thermal radiation. Existing heat radiation data from literature are mostly based on unsteady outflow conditions. The experimental setup used here allows for the generation of a steady-state outflow for several minutes and thus a direct comparability with existing (steady-state) models. Furthermore, stationary outflow tests with hydrocarbons (methane) were also carried out, which are intended to serve as reference tests for checking flame models based on hydrocarbon data. Following from the experimental investigations, modelling parameters such as the Surface Emissive Power (SEP) and the radiant heat fraction for hydrogen and methane will be compared to literature data.
Science Café Adlershof is having its next edition in 2024 on February 20th '24! We will have one speaker next week: Alexander Winckelmann is a PhD student at Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -Prüfung and will give a talk about his stay abroad in Switzerland - there will be free chocolates! There will be enough time to ask questions or simply chat with the guests and participants.
A systematic series of industrial-relevant polystyrene-based anion exchange resins that are functionalized with hydro- or fluorocarbon chains are compared regarding their adsorption behavior toward perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCA) in respect to their charge, chain length, and type of chain. The results clearly show the dominance of electrostatic interactions in the adsorption process as uncharged adsorber materials showed no adsorption at all. In contrast, the charged adsorber materials showed in general a PFCA removal of 80% to 30% over the experiment depending on effluent fraction.
Unexpectedly, for perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) the highest removal rate is found with consistently >90%. Despite observing significant benefits in the adsorption of PFCA for fluoroalkylated adsorbers in comparison to their non-fluorinated counterparts, this effect of fluoroalkylation is comparatively small and can not be clearly attributed to fluorophilic interactions between the fluoroalkyl chains. These findings help clarifying that the introduction of fluorocarbon moieties in adsorber materials is not necessary in order to remove fluorocarbon molecules from the environment.
This paper outlines significant advancements in our previously developed aerial gas tomography system, now optimized to reconstruct 2D tomographic slices of gas plumes with enhanced precision in outdoor environments. The core of our system is an aerial robot equipped with a custom-built 3-axis aerial gimbal, a Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) sensor for CH4 measurements, a laser rangefinder, and a wide-angle camera, combined with a state-of-the-art gas tomography algorithm. In real-world experiments, we sent the aerial robot along gate-shaped flight patterns over a semi-controlled environment with a static-like gas plume, providing a welldefined ground truth for system evaluation. The reconstructed cross-sectional 2D images closely matched the known ground truth concentration, confirming the system’s high accuracy and reliability. The demonstrated system’s capabilities open doors for potential applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety, though further testing is planned to ascertain the system’s operational boundaries fully.
This paper explores combining a gimbal-mounted tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) sensor and a video camera to create a virtual gas camera for methane leak detection. This provides a low-to-zero-cost extension of typical TDLAS gas tomography systems. A prototype setup mounted on a ground robot is evaluated. Results acquired using a simulated methane leak show the feasibility of the virtual gas camera, accurately detecting methane leaks by overlaying concentrations onto a visual image. While the acquisition time is significantly longer than for traditional gas cameras, potential enhancements are discussed. The study concludes that the virtual gas camera is feasible and useful, despite its longer acquisition time. It serves as a valuable software-only addition to typical TDLAS gas tomography systems, offering quickly-available on-site data augmentation for visual leak assessment at low-to-zero cost.
This paper outlines significant advancements in our previously developed aerial gas tomography system, now optimized to reconstruct 2D tomographic slices of gas plumes with enhanced precision in outdoor environments. The core of our system is an aerial robot equipped with a custom-built 3-axis aerial gimbal, a Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) sensor for CH4 measurements, a laser rangefinder, and a wide-angle camera, combined with a state-of-the-art gas tomography algorithm. In real-world experiments, we sent the aerial robot along gate-shaped flight patterns over a semi-controlled environment with a static-like gas plume, providing a welldefined ground truth for system evaluation. The reconstructed cross-sectional 2D images closely matched the known ground truth concentration, confirming the system’s high accuracy and reliability. The demonstrated system’s capabilities open doors for potential applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety, though further testing is planned to ascertain the system’s operational boundaries fully.
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.
The presentation provides an overview of the current European initiatives to introduce the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Starting from the political background, reference is made to the implementation in various European directives. According to current considerations, explosives and pyrotechnics are not excluded from this. The introduction of the DPP system requires the development of a solid basis of relevant standards, which are now being developed. The aim of BAM's efforts will be to digitally align the classification processes with a view to these developments.
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.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were classified as a group of highly concerning chemicals over the last decades. Because of the high persistence of PFAS, their previous use led to contamination of the environment and human population. Due to ongoing use and incomplete remediation or destruction methods, the PFAS background in the environment is growing continuously.
The presence of ultrashort PFAS (with ≤3 carbon atoms) in the environment is often overlooked despite their contributions to PFAS levels. These compounds may directly contaminate the environment and arise from degradation of polyfluorinated compounds as well as incomplete PFAS destruction in certain industrial processes. Nonetheless, few approaches for targeted analysis of ultrashort PFASs have been developed, except for trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). Beside liquid (LC-MS/MS), supercritical fluid (SFC-MS/MS), and ion chromatography (IC-MS)-based systems, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a promising method for detection and quantification of ultrashort PFAS.
The goal of this study was to develop a simple headspace GC-MS method for the quantification of ultrashort perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and polyfluorinated alcohols (PFOHs) in water samples. In contrast to PFOHs, functionalization of PFCAs was required for quantification. This was done by esterification with methanol at 80 °C, which can be carried out directly in the headspace GC-MS system.
Moreover, several parameters were optimized to achieve a low limit of quantification (LOQ) for the analytes used: i) The ratio of the aqueous solution, methanol, and available gas phase within the analysis vessel, ii) the concentration of additional acid in esterification mixtures of PFCAs, iii) shaking frequency and iv) shaking time before analysis. After optimizing the procedure, we were able to quantify ultrashort PFCAs and PFOHs. Thus, our developed headspace GC-MS method has the potential to be used as an alternative target analysis for ultrashort-chain PFCAs and PFOHs in various water samples (groundwater, wastewater).
Preliminary results of an interlaboratory comparison on microplastics organised by plasticsfate
(2023)
Microplastics are everywhere in the environment, but analytics is challenging. Since harmonisation is missing as well es suitable reference materials, BAM did under th umbrella of VAMAS funded by the EU Horizon 2020 project PlasticsFate a ILC for microplastic detection methods. Methods adressed were IR, Raman, Py-GC/MS and TED-GC/MS. The talk gives a first presentation and evaluation on the results.
The number of vehicles using or transporting cryogenic fuels such as Liquefied Hydrogen (LH2) or Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) increases fast in the land transportation sector. Does this also entail new risks? The storage of cryogenic fuels requires tanks with Thermal Super Insulations (TSI) to keep the fluid cold and limit the formation of boil-off gas. TSI has proven itself in some applications since the middle of the 20th century, but in the land transport sector they are still quite new, where accidents involving fires, collisions, and their combination are to be expected. This work focuses on investigating the behavior of different types of TSI while exposed to a heat source representing a fire. To this aim, a High-Temperature Thermal Vacuum Chamber (HTTVC) was applied, which allows the thermal loading of a thermal insulation material in a vacuum and measuring the heat flow transported through the TSI in parallel. In this study, the results of 6 samples are presented regarding 3 types of MLI, rock wool, perlites, and microspheres. The thermal exposure caused different effects on the samples. In practice, this can be connected to the rapid release of flammable gases as well as to a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE). These results are relevant for reducing the risks to people and infrastructures in the progressive establishment of tanks for cryogenic fluids in our industry and society. The data presented in the study can be used to improve the design of tanks and TSIs, the assessment of accident scenarios, and the development of measures for first responders.
The presentation gives an overview of BAM's activities on processing influences and application properties of MPEAs in the form of joined and machined high and medium entropy alloys (CoCrFeMnNi and CoCrNi). In the case of welding, the focus is on defect-free welded joints with sufficient mechanical properties. In the case of machining, the focus is on the possible influence on the surface quality of the materials through adequate milling parameters. In addition, the hydrogen absorption and diffusion properties as well as the electrochemical corrosion behavior are fundamentally examined.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by furniture and building materials can cause health issues. For an improvement of indoor air quality low emitting materials should be used. Quality assurance and –control (QA/QC) measures require an emission reference material (ERM) with a predictable emission rate of VOCs. The idea is to use porous materials as ERM, which store the VOCs inside their pores and emit them constantly.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by furniture and
building materials can cause health issues. For an
improvement of indoor air quality low emitting materials
should be used. Quality assurance and –control (QA/QC)
measures require an emission reference material (ERM) with a
predictable emission rate of VOCs. The idea is to use porous
materials as ERM, which store the VOCs inside their pores and
emit them constantly.
Isotope analysis plays a critical role in various disciplines, including environmental science, archaeology, and forensic investigations. Traditional methods such as mass spectrometry provide precise isotopic data but often require complex, costly setups and extensive sample preparation. As an alternative, optical spectrometry has emerged as a versatile and less invasive technique. This presentation explores the advancements and applications of optical spectrometry methods in isotope analysis, emphasizing their benefits and challenges.
Lithium (Li), Boron (B), Nitrogen (N), Magnesium (Mg), and Calcium (Ca) are pivotal elements across various spheres such as the hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere, significantly impacting (bio-) geochemical and physiological processes. These elements exhibit stable isotopes with substantial roles in geological, environmental, and biological studies. The traditional method for measuring isotope amount ratios has been through mass spectrometry, which, despite its accuracy, comes with high operational costs, the need for skilled operators, and time-consuming sample preparation processes.
Combining optical spectroscopy with chemometrics introduces an innovative, cost-effective approach by the hand of high-resolution continuum source atomic and molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS-AAS and HR-CS-MAS) for the analysis of isotope ratios in Li, B, N, Mg, and Ca. By analyzing the atomic or molecular absorption spectrum of the in-situ generated cloud of atoms of diatomic molecules (e.g., Li, BH, NO, MgF, CaF) during the electronic transition from the fundamental state, this method allows for the rapid determination of isotope ratios directly from sample solutions without the need for complex sample preparation.
For each element, the respective atomic or molecule's absorption spectrum was deconvoluted into its isotopic components using partial least squares regression or machine learning algorithms. Robust calibration models were developed, calibrated with enriched isotope, and validated against certified reference materials. Spectral data underwent preprocessing to optimize the modeling to determine the optimal number of latent variables.
The findings showcase that this optical spectrometric method yields results that agree with those obtained via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), offering a promising, cost-effective, and rapid alternative for isotope analysis with precisions as low as ± 0.2‰. This approach is a significant advancement in analytical chemistry, providing a new way to study isotope variations in biological, environmental, and geological samples.
What does GD-OES reveal about the aging and manufacturing processes of lithium-ion batteries?
(2024)
Glow-Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GD-OES), a powerful analytical technique, sheds light on the two critical aspects of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs): manufacturing and aging 1, 2. We optimized cell production in manufacturing by adjusting parameters, including cathode doping, electrolyte concentration, and pressing force. GD-OES provided in-depth elemental composition and homogeneity analysis, which is crucial for identifying optimal manufacturing conditions. These findings were validated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, confirming the quality of the manufactured batteries.
Shifting the focus to aging, we use GD-OES for fluorine depth profiling, a key element in understanding polymer and electrolyte degradation. However, fluorine presents analytical challenges. We addressed this by substituting argon with a neon:argon mixture, which significantly enhanced fluorine detection sensitivity. This advancement not only improves accuracy but also holds the potential to guide sustainable and cost-efficient manufacturing strategies.
Through its versatility, GD-OES has proven to be a powerful tool for not only optimizing LIB manufacturing processes but also gaining deeper insights into their aging mechanisms. This research extends beyond academic interest, offering tangible benefits for the industry by translating into improved battery quality, extended lifespan, and overall performance.
The ongoing geo-political conflicts and the increasing need for the implementation of measures to improve the energetic system sustainability are increasing the importance of tanks for storing cryogenic fluids in the energy industry. The most common example of cryogenic tank applications is the transport of natural gas and hydrogen in their liquid form (LNG and LH2 respectively) for which, considering the same transport volume cryogenic storage ensures significantly higher transport capacities with respect storage based solely on overpressure.
A common feature of all cryogenic transported fluids is that their condition must be maintained minimizing heat leaks from the environment as much as possible. This is achieved by the implementation of thermal super Insulations (TSI) systems based on e. g. rock wool, perlites, microspheres, multilayer insulations (MLI), and vacuum which have proven to be effective in applications. However, due to the relatively short period of use in some applications, the small number of documented incidents, and the still few investigations carried out in the field, the exploitation of such systems in the cryogenic fluids transport sector still suffers from insufficient knowledge about the course and consequences of incidents. Accidents involving collisions, fires, and their combination are quite common in the transportation sector and may generate extraordinary loads on the tank and its insulation system, eventually leading to tank failure.
The present study focuses on the behavior of TSI systems in tanks when it is exposed to an external heat source representative of a hydrocarbon fire scenario. This may cause an increase of the heat flux into a tank by several orders of magnitude with respect to normal design conditions, thus inducing severe and in the TSI, causing the rapid release of flammable gas and even resulting in a Boiling Liquide Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE).
To study such scenarios a test rig was developed at BAM that allows testing of TSI at industrial conditions and enables subsequent analysis of TSI samples. This test rig considers the typical double-walled design of tanks for cryogenic fluids with vacuum and an additional insulating material in the interspace. Adjustable electrical heating elements simulate the fire on one side of the double wall. This process allows the implementation of repeatable heat loads of up to 100 kW/m². The other side of the double wall is represented by a fluid-supported heat exchanger, which allows the simulation of cold or cryogenic conditions in the test rig, and to determine the heat flux transmitted through the double wall. Thus, the test rig allows thermal loading and performance analysis of TSI samples at the same time.
In the presentation, the results of diverse tested TSI systems will be presented and discussed. As a result of this study, the list of advantages and disadvantages for the choice of tested TSI expands. Within the test, all samples degraded as a consequence of a hydrocarbon fire-orientated thermal load. Strong differences in the behavior of the tested TSI systems over temperature, location, and time were observed. Additionally, the tested MLI insulations were significantly more resistant to their base materials. These results are relevant for the design, the definition of national and international regulations, the Risk assessment, and the development of safety concepts for cryogenic tanks.
In order to reduce the human footprint of CO2 emissions and limit global warming effects hydrogen combustion is becoming increasingly important. To enable fuel cells and gas turbines to operates this carbon free fuel, unprecedently large amounts of hydrogen need to be produced and safely transported and stored. The investigation of the effects of accidents involving hydrogen is therefore becoming of outmost importance. Since hydrogen is usually stored and transported under pressure, one scenario to be considered is the release of hydrogen from a leakage with subsequent ignition. The resulting jet flame must be characterized with respect to the thermal radiation emitted into the environment to define safety regulations. Various models that characterize the resulting flame shape and radiation already exist in the literature, but these are mainly based on empirical data from hydrocarbon jet flames.[1-4] To verify these models, a H2 Jet Flame project conducted at BAM, is investigating the safety of momentum driven hydrogen jet flames. For this purpose, large-scale tests are carried out at the Test Site Technical Safety (BAM-TTS). The object of the investigations is to assess the effects of real scale release scenarios regarding flame geometry and the thermal radiation emitted. Parameters such as release angle, leakage diameter (currently 1 mm to 10 mm), pressure (currently up to max. 250 bar) and mass flow (up to max. 0.5 kg/s) are varied. In addition, influences such as the type of ignition, ignition location as well as delayed ignition can also be investigated. The gained knowledge will be compared with existing jet flame models, to validate these and identify a possible need for further development. In particular, the focus will be laid on the thermal radiation of hydrogen flames. The challenge here is the visualization and characterization of the flame geometry in an open environment. Visualization is performed using infrared (IR) camera systems from at least two viewing angles. Measurements of the heat radiation of jet flames, which can be found in the literature, are mostly based on unsteady outflow conditions.The experimental setup used here allows for the generation of a steady-state outflow for several minutes and thus a direct comparability with existing (steady-state) models. Furthermore, the tests can be carried out for comparative measurements with hydrocarbons (methane, etc.) as well as mixtures of hydrogen and hydrocarbons.
In order to reduce the human footprint of CO2 emissions and limit global warming effects hydrogen combustion is becoming increasingly important. To enable fuel cells and gas turbines to operates this carbon free fuel, unprecedently large amounts of hydrogen need to be produced and safely transported and stored. The investigation of the effects of accidents involving hydrogen is therefore becoming of outmost importance. Since hydrogen is usually stored and transported under pressure, one scenario to be considered is the release of hydrogen from a leakage with subsequent ignition. The resulting jet flame must be characterized with respect to the thermal radiation emitted into the environment to define safety regulations. Various models that characterize the resulting flame shape and radiation already exist in the literature, but these are mainly based on empirical data from hydrocarbon jet flames.[1-4] To verify these models, a H2 Jet Flame project conducted at BAM, is investigating the safety of momentum driven hydrogen jet flames. For this purpose, large-scale tests are carried out at the Test Site Technical Safety (BAM-TTS). The object of the investigations is to assess the effects of real scale release scenarios regarding flame geometry and the thermal radiation emitted. Parameters such as release angle, leakage diameter (currently 1 mm to 10 mm), pressure (currently up to max. 250 bar) and mass flow (up to max. 0.5 kg/s) are varied. In addition, influences such as the type of ignition, ignition location as well as delayed ignition can also be investigated. The gained knowledge will be compared with existing jet flame models, to validate these and identify a possible need for further development. In particular, the focus will be laid on the thermal radiation of hydrogen flames. The challenge here is the visualization and characterization of the flame geometry in an open environment. Visualization is performed using infrared (IR) camera systems from at least two viewing angles. Measurements of the heat radiation of jet flames, which can be found in the literature, are mostly based on unsteady outflow conditions. The experimental setup used here allows for the generation of a steady-state outflow for several minutes and thus a direct comparability with existing (steady-state) models. Furthermore, the tests can be carried out for comparative measurements with hydrocarbons (methane, etc.) as well as mixtures of hydrogen and hydrocarbons.
Faecal contaminants in water are considered serious threats for human health, due to the presence of viruses, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.1 Urobilin (UB) is a well-known faecal pigment and can be used as a marker for faecal matter in water.2 UB is commonly present in the urine of all mammals as the catabolic end product of bilirubin degradation.2 As the only simple chemical approach to its detection, Schlesinger’s test is usually used to enhance the weak fluorescence of UB in alcoholic media by complexation with Zinc.2, 3 The major limitation of this method is the only weak enhancement of the intrinsically weak UB fluorescence in aqueous media.3 This work presents an approach to introduce different Zn salts for improved fluorescence response, where we found a clear dependence of the fluorescence yield of UB-Zn(II) complexes on the counterion of the salt in water. By employing a combination of fluorescence parameters like transition energy, fluorescence intensity, and fluorescence lifetime, a photophysical understanding of the structure and conformation of the UB-Zn(II) complexes responsible for the fluorescence enhancement in water could be gained. The possibilities of developing a sensitive analytical method based on the acquired understanding are also discussed.
Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies are the fastest-growing group of biological agents which generated a yearly turnover of USD 210 billion in 2022 and whose sales are expected to grow by 10% annually over the next 10 years. With steadily increasing market importance, analytical methods for reliable quantification of therapeutic antibodies also become more and more relevant. Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) has become the main technology for antibody quantification. This approach, however, requires enzymatic digestion of the intact protein into peptides, for which a wide range of different protocols exists that often lead to different results depending on the digestion procedure or trypsin variants used. In particular, the amount and type of detergents added for protein unfolding prior to digestion is known to create significant bias in measurement results. The overall goal of the presented project is the application of novel thermostable and surface-functionalized trypsin particles for improved antibody digestion. Specifically, a trypsin-variant described in the literature exhibiting increased activity and thermal stability above 80°C, will be examined. The application of this enzyme should allow to perform digestion at elevated temperatures where the protein is naturally unfolding thereby increasing enzyme accessibility without the need for detergents. Furthermore, we will immobilize the thermostable trypsin onto the surface to further enhance enzyme stability, prevent self-digestion, and enable separation of trypsin from target peptides before LC–MS/MS analysis. As an immobilization platform, cheap and non-porous corundum particles will be used as these show high chemical stability and low levels of interaction of matrix proteins with the functionalized surface. adsorption. In a multidisciplinary collaboration with the SALSA Photonics Lab, we will investigate the characteristics of covalent enzyme binding and unspecific peptide binding using an interface-sensitive analytical tool, vibrational sum-frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy. The insights gained will not only lead to new competencies in peptide and enzyme surface analysis using VSFG spectroscopy in SALSA but will also significantly contribute to optimizing antibody quantification.
This is a set of use examples for the HDF5Translator framework. This framework lets you translate measurement files into a different (e.g. NeXus-compatible) structure, with some optional checks and conversions on the way. For an in-depth look at what it does, there is a blog post here.
The use examples provided herein are each accompanied by the measurement data necessary to test and replicate the conversion. The README.md files in each example show the steps necessary to do the conversion for each.
We encourage those who have used or adapted one or more of these exampes to create their own conversion, to get in touch with us so we may add your example to the set.
qNMR - The handbook
(2023)
Quantitative NMR (qNMR) has been around for a long time, but also has great potential to solve future problems in any quantitative analysis. As a primary method, it differs fundamentally from chromatographic methods: it is better described as a quantum mechanical balance. Succesful implementation of qNMR requires certain attention to detail. "qNMR - the handbook" is intended to be a guide for analysts to help understand the fundamental principles of NMR and the significant points relating to its implementation for quantitation. Regulatory considerations of qNMR adoption are explained. NMR fundamentals are explained to provide understanding. Together with many useful examples, the book is a compelling addition to the laboratory's reference library, providing all the tools that any practitioner should know to successfully implement qNMR.
The authors are qNMR pioneers and come from a variety of backgrounds including business, government and academia.
In situ chemical analysis of duplex stainless steel weld by laser induced breakdown spectroscopy
(2024)
The high corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties of duplex stainless steel (DSS) are due to its special chemical composition, which is a balanced phase ratio of ferrite (α) and austenite (γ). Many industrial applications require the integration of DSS components. For this, Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) is an excellent choice, as it allows an automated operation with high reproducibility. However, when the weld pool solidifies, critical ratios of α- and γ- phases can occur, which lead to solidification cracking, increased susceptibility to corrosion, and a decrease in ductility and critical strength. Previous studies have shown that these defects can be caused by the accumulation of manganese and chromium in the heat affected zone (HAZ), requiring ongoing monitoring of this accumulation. A suitable method for such monitoring is laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), which can be used in two operating modes: calibration using standard reference samples and calibration-free. Unlike conventional quantitative LIBS measurements, which require reference samples to generate a calibration curve, calibration-free LIBS (CF-LIBS) allows chemical compositions to be determined solely from the emission spectrum of the plasma. Numerous publications show that CF-LIBS is a fast and efficient analytical method for the quantitative analysis of metal samples. In this work, CF-LIBS is applied to spectra obtained during GTAW DSS welding and the result is compared with those obtained by PLS analysis. A good correlation was found between both types of analysis, demonstrating the suitability of the CF-LIBS method for this application. The CF-LIBS method has a significant advantage over conventional LIBS due to the rapid in situ measurement of concentrations of major alloying elements without calibration procedure. This, combined with fast feedback and appropriate adjustment of welding parameters, helps prevent welding defects.
The MBLabs consortium comprises various organizations that operate testing facilities encompassing a broad spectrum of tests relevant to the construction sector, particularly building envelopes. In the future, additional testing facilities will join the METABUILDING platform to offer their services. These services will be integrated in the MBLabs Open Innovation Test Bed and accessible via the METABUILDING platform. The METABUILDING platform is operated by the METABUILDING association.
In Task 8.5 the Quality Assurance system of the MBLabs OITB is developed. The presentation gives an overview regarding the development of this system after 3 years of project execution.
SWIR luminescent nanomaterials – key chemical parameters for bright probes for in vivo bioimaging
(2024)
A current challenge for studying physio-pathological phenomena and diseaserelated processes in living organisms with non-invasive optical bioimaging is the development of bright optical reporters that enable deep tissue penetration, a high detection sensitivity, and a high spatial and temporal resolution. The focus of this project are nanomaterials, which absorb and emit in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) between ~900–2500 nm where scattering, absorption, and autofluorescence of the tissue are strongly reduced compared to the visible and NIR.
Trinamic TMCL IOC is a Python package designed for controlling stepper motors connected to a Trinamic board using the TMCL language (all boards supported by PyTrinamic should now work, has been tested on the TMCM 6110 and the TMCM 6214). Since it is implementing the TMCL protocol, it should be easy to adapt to other Trinamic motor controller boards. This package assumes the motor controller is connected over a machine network via a network-to-serial converter, but the underlying PyTrinamic package allows for other connections too.
This allows the control of attached motors via the EPICS Channel-Access virtual communications bus. If EPICS is not desired, plain Pythonic control via motion_control should also be possible. An example for this will be provided in the example.ipynb Jupyter notebook.
This package leverages Caproto for EPICS IOCs and a modified PyTrinamic library for the motor board control, and interfaces between the two via an internal set of dataclasses. Configuration for the motors and boards are loaded from YAML files (see tests/testdata/example_config.yaml).
The modifications to PyTrinamic involved extending their library with a socket interface. This was a minor modification that should eventually find its way into the official package (a pull request has been submitted).
This presentation highlights ongoing scientific misconduct as found in academic literature. This includes data- and image manipulation, and paper mills. Starting with an expose of examples, it delves deeper into the causes and metrics driving this phenomenon. Finally a range of possible tools is presented, that the young researcher can use to prevent themselves from sliding into the dark scientific methods.
By automatically recording as much information as possible in automated laboratory setups, reproducibility and traceability of experiments are vastly improved. This presentation shows what such an approach means for the quality of experiments in an X-ray scattering laboratory and an automated synthesis set-up.
Metabolomics
(2024)
The BAM Data Store
(2023)
As a partner in several NFDI consortia, the Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM, German federal institute for materials science and testing) contributes to research data standardization efforts in various domains of materials science and engineering (MSE). To implement a central research data management (RDM) infrastructure that meets the requirements of MSE groups at BAM, we initiated the Data Store pilot project in 2021. The resulting infrastructure should enable researchers to digitally document research processes and store related data in a standardized and interoperable manner. As a software solution, we chose openBIS, an open-source framework that is increasingly being used for RDM in MSE communities.
The pilot project was conducted for one year with five research groups across different organizational units and MSE disciplines. The main results are presented for the use case “nanoPlattform”. The group registered experimental steps and linked associated instruments and chemicals in the Data Store to ensure full traceability of data related to the synthesis of ~400 nanomaterials. The system also supported researchers in implementing RDM practices in their workflows, e.g., by automating data import and documentation and by integrating infrastructure for data analysis.
Based on the promising results of the pilot phase, we will roll out the Data Store as the central RDM infrastructure of BAM starting in 2023. We further aim to develop openBIS plugins, metadata standards, and RDM workflows to contribute to the openBIS community and to foster RDM in MSE.
Oxidative degradation processes of tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a brominated flame retardant (BFR) in wood, plastics and electronics, were investigated by electrochemistry (EC) coupled online to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI/MS). Oxidative phase I and II metabolites production was achieved using an electrochemical flow-through cell equipped with a boron doped diamond electrode. Structural elucidation and prediction of oxidative metabolism pathways of TBBPA according to type II ipso-substitution were based on retention time, m/z ratio in negative mode and fragmentation pattern. Using the data obtained through high resolution MS analysis and the identification of single electron transfer (SET) as the initial step of a two-electron oxidation provided the necessary information to propose a mechanism for the electrochemical oxidation of TBBPA. Oxidation reactions involving aromatic hydroxylation and β-scission were the main degradation observed when studying the electrochemical behavior of TBBPA. Computational chemistry experiments using density functional theory (DFT) allowed to identify mono-hydroxylated reaction intermediate and dismissed the mechanism involving two concurrent hydroxylation. TBBPA oxidation products were compared to known metabolites of its biological and environmental degradation confirming the ability of electrochemistry to simulate β-scission reactions.
This document constitutes the Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) for the European Metrology Network for Mathematics and Statistics in Metrology (EMN Mathmet). The EMN Mathmet is an alliance of European National Metrology Institutes (NMIs), Designated Institutes (DIs) and an EMN Partner that aims to strengthen research and cooperation in the field. The SRA has been developed within a European project (EMPIR 18NET05 MATHMET) to promote and support the network. The SRA was developed based on a consultation process with stakeholders and the strategies of individual NMIs and DIs, and in alignment with the EURAMET 2030 strategy.
As a key result, the SRA defines a long-term research goal: the EMN Mathmet will coordinate research to strengthen the trust in algorithms, software tools and data to underpin digital transformation. For this purpose, new emerging research topics where algorithms, software tools and data play a significant role were identified: (i) Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and (ii) Computational Modelling and Virtual Metrology. The foundation for the development of these new topics is given by the traditional focus on (iii) Data Analysis and Uncertainty Evaluation. The SRA characterises the future needs and challenges in the field of mathematics and statistics in metrology and provides an outline of how the EMN Mathmet can meet these new emerging requirements.
In industrialised countries more than 80% of the time is spent indoors. Products, such as building materials and furniture, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are therefore ubiquitous in indoor air. VOC in combination may, under certain environmental and occupational conditions, result in reported sensory irritation and health complaints. Emission concentrations can become further elevated in new or refurbished buildings where the rate of air exchange with fresh ambient air may be limited due to improved energy saving aspects. A healthy indoor environment can be achieved by controlling the sources and by eliminating or limiting the release of harmful substances into the air. One way is to use (building) materials proved to be low emitting. Meanwhile, a worldwide network of professional commercial and non-commercial laboratories performing emission tests for the evaluation of products for interior use has been established. Therefore, comparability of test results must be ensured. A laboratory’s proficiency can be proven by internal and external validation measures that both include the application of suitable emission reference materials (ERM). For the emission test chamber procedure according to EN 16516, no artificial ERM is commercially available. The EU-funded EMPIR project MetrIAQ aims to fill this gap by developing new and improved ERMs. The goal is to obtain a material with a reproducible and temporally constant compound release (less than 10 % variability over 14 days). Two approaches were tested: the impregnation of porous materials with VOC, and the encapsulation of VOC in polymer microcapsules. Impregnation is performed with help of an autoclave and supercritical CO2. The encapsulation is done by interfacial polymerisation on VOC droplets. For both approaches, synthesis and/or material parameters were varied to obtain an optimal ERM. Findings about the optimisation of ERM generation, as well as performance of the best emission reference materials, will be presented.
The principles of (Hard) X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and some application in the field of (core-shell) nanoparticles will be presented. The presentation should answer hoe to get reliable results. Furthermore, examples of the correlation between physical-chemical measurments and toxicological results are given which are crucial for the risk assessment of nanoparticles.
The processes of hydrogen reduction of silicon and germanium chlorides under the conditions of high-frequency (40.68 MHz) counteracted arc discharge stabilized between two rod electrodes are investigated. The main gas-phase and solid products of plasma-chemical transformations are determined. Thermodynamic analysis of SiCl4 + H2 and GeCl4 + H2 systems for optimal process parameters was carried out. Using the example of hydrogen reduction of SiCl4 by the method of numerical modeling, gas-dynamic and thermal processes for this type of discharge are investigated. The impurity composition of gas-phase and solid reaction products is investigated. The possibility of single-stage production of high-purity Si and Ge mainly in the form of compact ingots, as well as high-purity chlorosilanes and trichlorogermane, is shown.
Climate change and increasing demand for electricity require the use of power electronics based on new wide bandgap (WBG) compound semiconductors. Power electronics devices are used in numerous application areas to control and convert electric energy. These may include generation and distribution of renewable energy for green hydrogen, electrification of transport or 5G communication. WBG electronics have much higher efficiency than the silicon-based ones and can operate at higher power densities, voltages, temperatures and switching frequencies with low energy losses. However, defects in the semiconductors can considerably affect the performance of power electronic devices or make their operation even impossible. The presentation will show the application of spectroscopic and imaging ellipsometry as well as white light interference microscopy for defect characterisation in SiC, GaN and Ga2O3 over a wide wavelength range.
We used parameterized modelling of ellipsometric transfer parameters to determine the dielectric properties of bulk materials and thin layers. Imaging ellipsometry offers more information and is an advanced variant of optical microscopy, combining the lateral resolution of optical microscopy with the extreme sensitivity to surface and interface effects of ellipsometry. Surface topography and morphology of different types of defects were additionally investigated with imaging white light interference microscopy. Modern electronic thin film components require complex surface analysis methodologies and hybrid metrology. Hybrid measurement techniques enable fast and non-destructive traceable characterisation of thin film compound semiconductors as well as accurate detection and identification of defects. This methodical approach leads to a better understanding of the materials themselves and of the defect formation mechanisms during manufacturing.
This work aims to enable highly reproducible manufacturing of compound semiconductor power electronics as well as operation monitoring to ensure failure-safety of electronic systems in power electronic devices.
An overview of personal experience with laser-induced plasma (LIP) will be given. The combination of LIP with laser-induced fluorescence, atomic absorption, Raman spectroscopy and spatial heterodyne spectroscopy for elemental and isotopic analysis will be discussed. Unusual applications of LIP will be covered, such as LIP-based lasers and LIP-based chemical reactors.
This course will provide an introduction to plasma diagnostic techniques. The major focus of the course will be on the discussions of the practical procedures as well as the underlying physical principles for the measurements of plasma fundamental characteristics (e.g., temperatures, thermodynamic properties, and electron number density). Particular emphasis will be placed on inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometry, but other analytical plasmas will also be used as examples when appropriate. Selected examples on how one can manipulate the operating conditions of the plasma source, based on the results of plasma diagnostic measurements, to improve its performance used for spectrochemical analysis will also be covered. Topics to be covered include thermal equilibrium, line profiles, temperatures, electron densities, excitation processes, micro reactions, pump and probe diagnostics, tomography,
temporal and spatial resolution. Basis of plasma computer modeling will be presented.
Harmonized and interoperable national Quality Infrastructure (QI) systems are essential for fostering cooperation, promoting mutual trust, and facilitating trade. The true potential of the QI is realized when its elements and actors are seamlessly integrated into a cohesive digital QI ecosystem. Recent developments towards industrial international data spaces enable such an ecosystem but require the integration of QI principles. Recognizing the lack of such a platform, Quality-X aims at setting the stage for the implementation of a QI ecosystem in international data spaces (IDS), GAIA-X and related German and European projects dedicated to secure data sharing. Quality-X is not about the construction of a platform; it is the creation of an inclusive QI ecosystem with harmonized interfaces. Instead of imposing rigid data structures, it prioritizes interoperability. Through the utilization of Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs), Verifiable Credentials, and Identity Hubs, Quality-X seeks seamless interactions across diverse service provider systems.
This white paper introduces the concept and vision of Quality-X and discusses the general prerequisites for integrating QI processes within data spaces. Further on, we introduce existing testbeds, which will serve as an experimental proving ground for exploring various use cases related to the implementation of the vision of a QI-Digital.
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Harmonisierte und interoperable nationale Qualitätsinfrastrukturen (QI) sind für die Förderung der Zusammenarbeit, des gegenseitigen Vertrauens und der Erleichterung des Handels unerlässlich. Das wahre Potenzial der QI kommt zum Tragen, wenn ihre Elemente und Akteure nahtlos in ein kohärentes digitales QI-Ökosystem integriert werden. Die jüngsten Entwicklungen hin zu industriellen internationalen Datenräumen ermöglichen ein solches Ökosystem, erfordern jedoch die Integration von QI-Prinzipien. Angesichts des Fehlens einer solchen Plattform zielt Quality-X darauf ab, die Voraussetzungen für die Umsetzung eines QI-Ökosystems in internationalen Datenräumen (IDS), GAIA-X und verwandten deutschen und europäischen Projekten zum sicheren Datenaustausch zu schaffen. Bei Quality-X geht es nicht um den Aufbau einer Plattform, sondern um die Schaffung eines umfassenden QI-Ökosystems mit harmonisierten Schnittstellen. Anstatt starre Datenstrukturen aufzuerlegen, steht die Interoperabilität im Vordergrund. Durch die Verwendung von dezentralen Identifikatoren (DIDs), überprüfbaren Berechtigungsnachweisen und Identitäts-Hubs strebt Quality-X eine nahtlose Interaktion zwischen verschiedenen Systemen von Dienstleistern an.
Dieses Whitepaper stellt das Konzept und die Vision von Quality-X vor und erörtert die allgemeinen Voraussetzungen für die Integration von QI-Prozessen in Datenräumen. Darüber hinaus stellen wir bestehende Testbeds vor, die als experimentelles Versuchsfeld für die Erforschung verschiedener Anwendungsfälle im Zusammenhang mit der Umsetzung der Vision einer QI-Digital dienen sollen.
The different defect types on SiC samples are measured with various measurement methods including optical and tactile methods. The defect types investigated include particles, carrots and triangles and they are analyzed with imaging ellipsometry, coherent Fourier scatterometry and atomic force microscopy. Each of these methods measures different properties of the defects and they all together contribute to a complete analysis.
Until the 1980s radiography was used to inspect civil structures in case of special demands and showed a much better resolution than other NDT techniques. However, due to safety concerns and cost issues, this method is almost never used anymore. Meanwhile, non-destructive techniques such as ultrasound or
radar have found regular, successful practical application but sometimes suffer from limited resolution and accuracy, imaging artefacts or restrictions in detecting certain features when applied to reinforced or prestressed concrete inspection.
Muon tomography has received much attention recently. Muons are particles generated naturally by cosmic rays in the upper atmosphere and pose no risk to humans. Novel detectors and tomographic imaging algorithms have opened new fields of application, mainly in the nuclear sector, but also in spectacular cases such as the Egyptian pyramids.
As a first step towards practical application in civil engineering and as a proof of concept we used an existing system to image the interior of a reference reinforced 600 kg concrete block. Even with a yet not optimized setup for this kind of investigation, the muon imaging results have been at least of similar quality compared to ultrasonic and radar imaging, potentially even better. Recently, the research was expanded to more realistic testing problems such as the detection of voids in certain structural elements. However, before practical implementation, more robust, mobile, and affordable detectors would be required as well as user-Friendly imaging and simulation software.
Ergot alkaloids form a toxicologically relevant group of mould toxins (mycotoxins) that are among the most common contaminants of foodstuff and animal feed worldwide. Reliable controls are essential to minimise health risks and economic damage. Due to their toxicological relevance, EU limit values for 12 priority ergot alkaloids have been introduced for the first time in 2022 and range from 500 μg/kg in rye milling products down to 20 ug/kg Processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children[1]. High-performance liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry is used to quantify low concentrations of ergots in food, however the European standard analytical procedure cannot be applied due to the lack of isotopically labelled reference standards.
The complex structure of the ergot alkaloids makes a total synthesis extremely challenging, expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, we are focusing on different semi-preparative methods (electrochemistry, organic synthesis, heterogeneous catalysis) to specifically N-demethylate the C8 carbon atom of the lysergic acid moiety. The norergot alkaloid formed is then isotopically labelled using an electrophilic methyl source, i.e. iodomethane or dimethyl sulphate to obtain the specific isotopic labelled ergot alkaloid. Initial experiments have shown that N-demethylation of the ergot alkaloid ergotamine is possible by both electrochemical and wet-chemical organic synthesis. The next step is to improve the previously determined reaction conditions to enable the synthesis of norergotamine on a mg scale for further reactions.
Ellipsometry is a very powerful tool used for accurate material investigation in a wide wavelength range. It is a non-destructive and fast method. Imaging ellipsometry as a combination of optical microscopy and ellipsometry enables spatially resolved measurements when determining the layer thickness and dielectric properties of thin layers. It is known for its high polarisation sensitivity and high contrast for the surface structures. In this contribution we show the application of the imaging ellipsometry for detection of defects in energy materials and quality validation of possible reference materials for nano-electronics.
Defects in wide bandgap semiconductors, in homoepitaxial SiC and heteroepitaxial GaN layers on transparent SiC substrates, can be successfully detected and classified by means of imaging ellipsometry. Correlation of imaging ellipsometry results with results from complementary techniques such as white light interference microscopy as well as atomic force microscopy contribute to understanding of surface topography and defect formation mechanisms. We discuss the potential of different methods for analysing ellipsometric map data for monitoring the defect densities.
Electric properties of materials at the nanoscale can be investigated by means of scanning probe microscopy methods such as scanning microwave microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy. However, development of new robust and easy-to-use calibration methods and calibration standards is essential to increase the traceability of these methods and allow their broad application in industry. We show how imaging spectroscopic ellipsometry can be used for development and monitoring of processing quality of patterned reference samples based on indium tin oxide (ITO) layer with different thickness and conductivity.
The built infrastructure ages and requires regular inspection and, when in doubt, monitoring. To ensure that older concrete bridges showing signs of deterioration can be used safely, several innovative monitoring tools have been introduced, including but not limited to optical, fiber-optic, or acoustic emission techniques. However, there are gaps in the portfolio. A sensing technique that covers a wide range of damage scenarios and larger volumes, while still being sensitive and specific, would be beneficial.
For about 15 years, research has been conducted on ultrasonic monitoring of concrete structures that goes beyond the traditional ultrasonic pulse velocity test (PV test), mostly using a very sensitive data evaluation technique called coda wave interferometry. At BAM we have developed sensors and instrumentation specifically for this method.
We have instrumented a 70-year-old, severely damaged prestressed concrete bridge in Germany in addition to a commercial monitoring system. We have now collected data for almost 3 years. We can show that we can provide information about the stress distribution in the bridge. We have also been able to confirm that there has been no significant additional damage to the bridge since the installation.
X-rays without X-rays: Can muon tomography provide pictures from within concrete and other objects?
(2024)
Until the 1980s radiography was used to inspect civil structures in case of special demands and showed a much better resolution than other NDT techniques. However, due to safety concerns and cost issues, this method is almost never used anymore. Meanwhile, non-destructive techniques such as ultrasound or
radar have found regular, successful practical application but sometimes suffer from limited resolution and accuracy, imaging artefacts or restrictions in detecting certain features when applied to reinforced or prestressed concrete inspection.
Muon tomography has received much attention recently. Muons are particles generated naturally by cosmic rays in the upper atmosphere and pose no risk to humans. Novel detectors and tomographic imaging algorithms have opened new fields of application, mainly in the nuclear sector, but also in spectacular cases such as the Egyptian pyramids.
As a first step towards practical application in civil engineering and as a proof of concept we used an existing system to image the interior of a reference reinforced 600 kg concrete block. Even with a yet not optimized setup for this kind of investigation, the muon imaging results have been at least of similar quality compared to ultrasonic and radar imaging, potentially even better. Recently, the research was expanded to more realistic testing problems such as the detection of voids in certain structural elements. However, before practical implementation, more robust, mobile, and affordable detectors would be required as well as user-Friendly imaging and simulation software.
The talk also discusses other applications , such as volcanology, mining and geothermal exploration.
Ergot alkaloids form a toxicologically relevant group of mould toxins (mycotoxins) that are among the most common contaminants of food and animal feed worldwide. Reliable controls are essential to minimise health risks and economic damage. Due to their toxicological relevance, EU limit values for 12 priority ergot alkaloids have been introduced for the first time in 2022 and range from 500 µg/kg in rye milling products down to 20 ug/kg Processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children[1]. High-performance liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry is used to quantify low concentrations of ergots in food, however the European standard analytical procedure cannot be applied due to the lack of isotopically labelled reference standards.
The complex structure of the ergot alkaloids makes a total synthesis extremely challenging, expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, we are focusing on different semi-preparative methods (electrochemistry, organic synthesis, heterogeneous catalysis) to specifically N-demethylate the C8 carbon atom of the lysergic acid moiety. The norergot alkaloid formed is then isotopically labelled using an electrophilic methyl source, i.e. iodomethane or dimethyl sulphate to obtain the specific isotopic labelled ergot alkaloid. Initial experiments have shown that N-demethylation of the ergot alkaloid ergotamine is possible by both electrochemical and wet-chemical organic synthesis. The next step is to adapt the previously determined reaction conditions to enable the synthesis of norergotamine on a mg scale.
To evaluate the durability of new alternative cement compositions, it is important to examine the internal transport of moisture through these materials. For this purpose, mortars were prepared from different types of cement and capillary suction experiments were carried out. The moisture transport was studied with an NMR tomograph and compared with weight measurements. With the tomograph, the total moisture input could be determined, as well as the moisture content within the samples non-destructively and spatially resolved. This allows precise observation of the moisture fronts. The tomograph was also used to determine the capillary transport coefficient.
The European Commission has identified Advanced Manufacturing and Advanced Materials as two of six Key Enabling Technologies (KETs). By fully utilizing these KETs, advanced and sustainable economies will be created. It is considered that Metrology is a key enabler for the advancement of these KETs. EURAMET, the association of metrology institutes in Europe, has strengthened the role of Metrology for these KETs by enabling the creation of a European Metrology Network for Advanced Manufacturing. The EMN is made up of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) from across Europe and was formally established in October 2021. The EMN aims to provide a high-level coordination of European metrology activities for the Advanced Materials and Advanced Manufacturing community.
The EMN itself is organized in three sections representing the major stages of the manufacturing chain: 1) Advanced Materials, 2) Smart Manufacturing Systems, and 3) Manufactured Components & Products. The EMN for Advanced Manufacturing is engaging with stakeholders in the field of Advanced Manufacturing and Advanced Materials (Large companies & SMEs, industry organisations, existing networks, and academia), as well as the wider metrology community (including TCs) to provide input for the preparation of a Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) for Metrology for Advanced Manufacturing.
This presentation will describe the progress in the development of the SRA by the EMN for Advanced Manufacturing. The metrology challenges identified across the various key industrial sectors, which utilise Advanced Materials and Advanced Manufacturing will be presented.
The EMN for Advanced Manufacturing is supported by the project JNP 19NET01 AdvManuNet.
The European Commission has identified Advanced Manufacturing and Advanced Materials as two of six Key Enabling Technologies (KETs). It is considered that Metrology is a key enabler for the advancement of these KETs. Consequently, EURAMET, the association of metrology institutes in Europe, has strengthened the role of Metrology for these KETs by enabling the creation of a European Metrology Network (EMN) for Advanced Manufacturing. The EMN is comprised of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) from across Europe and was formally established in October 2021. The aim of the EMN is to provide a high-level coordination of European metrology activities for the Advanced Manufacturing community.
The EMN itself is organized in three sections representing the major stages of the manufacturing chain: 1) Advanced Materials, 2) Smart Manufacturing Systems, and 3) Manufactured Components & Products. The EMN for Advanced Manufacturing is engaging with stakeholders in the field of Advanced Manufacturing (large companies & SMEs, industry organisations, existing networks, and academia), as well as the wider Metrology community, including Technical Committees, to provide input for the Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) on Metrology for Advanced Manufacturing.
This contribution will give an overview about the first version of the SRA prepared by the EMN for Advanced Manufacturing
Laser powder bed fusion is one of the most promising additive manufacturing techniques for printing complex-shaped metal components. However, the formation of subsurface porosity poses a significant risk to the service lifetime of the printed parts. In-situ monitoring offers the possibility to detect porosity already during manufacturing. Thereby, process feedback control or a manual process interruption to cut financial losses is enabled.
Short-wave infrared thermography can monitor the thermal history of manufactured parts which is closely connected to the probability of porosity formation. Artificial intelligence methods are increasingly used for porosity prediction from the obtained large amounts of complex monitoring data. In this study, we aim to identify the potential and the challenges of deep-learning-assisted porosity prediction based on thermographic in-situ monitoring.
Therefore, the porosity prediction task is studied in detail using an exemplary dataset from the manufacturing of two Haynes282 cuboid components. Our trained 1D convolutional neural network model shows high performance (R2 score of 0.90) for the prediction of local porosity in discrete sub-volumes with dimensions of (700 x 700 x 40) μm³.
It could be demonstrated that the regressor correctly predicts layer-wise porosity changes but presumably has limited capability to predict differences in local porosity. Furthermore, there is a need to study the significance of the used thermogram feature inputs to streamline the model and to adjust the monitoring hardware. Moreover, we identified multiple sources of data uncertainty resulting from the in-situ monitoring setup, the registration with the ground truth X-ray-computed tomography data and the used pre-processing workflow that might influence the model’s performance detrimentally.
The contamination of drinking water with pharmaceuticals represents a severe health risk. In order to monitor the drinking water quality continuously and enable quick countermeasures in case of contamination, novel sensors are required. Here, immunoanalytical methods based on the binding of the analyte to highly selective antibodies can be helpful. In this work, magnetic bead-based immunoassays (MBBAs) have been developed for the detection of two relevant contaminants of drinking water: diclofenac (DCF) and amoxicillin (AMX). In case of the latter, not only the parent drug is of interest in the risk assessment but also its hydrolysis products (HPs). In a comprehensive study, the influence of external factors and intrinsic properties of the water on the rate of hydrolysis was investigated. As the hydrolysis of AMX further impacts the recognition by the antibody, a strategy to analyze samples with unknown hydrolysis degree of AMX was established employing the enzyme β-lactamase in sample preparation. For both analytes, the MBBAs enable the fast quantification with results obtained in less than one hour which represents a major improvement over conventional immunoassays like the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Compared to the respective ELISAs with the same antibodies, the MBBAs further exhibit improved analytical parameters such as a broader measurement range and lower limits of detection. Due to the magnetic properties of the beads that serve as a platform for the assays, they are suitable for the mobile and automated detection at the point-of-care. An integrated diagnostic system was designed in which electrochemical detection with chronoamperometry on a microfluidic chip allows for further miniaturization of the system to enable monitoring of the drinking water quality online in water supply pipes at waterworks.
The European Commission has identified Advanced Manufacturing and Advanced Materials as two of six Key Enabling Technologies (KETs). It is considered that Metrology is a key enabler for the advancement of these KETs. Consequently, EURAMET, the association of metrology institutes in Europe, has strengthened the role of Metrology for these KETs by enabling the creation of a European Metrology Network (EMN) for Advanced Manufacturing. The EMN is comprised of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) from across Europe and was formally established in October 2021. The aim of the EMN is to provide a high-level coordination of European metrology activities for the Advanced Manufacturing community.
The EMN itself is organized in three sections representing the major stages of the manufacturing chain: 1) Advanced Materials, 2) Smart Manufacturing Systems, and 3) Manufactured Components & Products. The EMN for Advanced Manufacturing is engaging with stakeholders in the field of Advanced Manufacturing (large companies & SMEs, industry organisations, existing networks, and academia), as well as the wider Metrology community, including Technical Committees, to provide input for the Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) on Metrology for Advanced Manufacturing.
This contribution will give an overview about the first version of the SRA prepared by the EMN for Advanced Manufacturing.
Concrete is the most important human-made material because it serves as the basis of our built environment. Since the properties of concretes are dominated by their key compound, cement, devising a way to determine the cement’s origin, known as provenancing, is of great importance for answering different provenance-related questions. These questions range from liability issues when damage occurs to concrete-made structures, to forensic investigations where cement particles are found at crime scenes. This thesis showcases the use of isotope techniques to answer these provenance-related questions. Conventional 87Sr/86Sr and 143Nd/144Nd isotope and elemental ratios consisting of Ca, Sr, K, Mn, Mg, and Ti are used as fingerprints for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) provenancing. The first part of this thesis describes research previously conducted in fingerprinting cementitious materials, providing an overview of provenance studies of cement and the main approaches commonly used. In several studies, the origin of clinker for certain locations was determined via different approaches. However, clinker is an intermediate product, which is available only at the production site and therefore, the practical relevance is rather limited. Furthermore, the use of Sr and Nd isotope systems, together with elemental fingerprints are presented as state of the art in the field. Therein, the principal approach for the overall study is sketched. For the second part of the study, a sample preparation technique for Sr isotopes in Portland cement was developed. The aim was to find the most appropriate sample preparation procedure for cement provenancing and selection was realised by comparing the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of differently treated OPCs with those of the corresponding clinkers. Based on these findings, the third part of the study focused on the measurements of Sr and Nd isotope ratios, together with elemental ratios, to establish a reliable technique for OPC provenancing. The outcomes of this final stage are then used to establish a procedure for fingerprinting cements. This becomes possible with the use of Sr and Nd isotope ratios and geochemical profiles. To perform isotope ratio measurements and obtain reliable data, it was necessary to establish a quality control procedure. Thus, an interlaboratory comparison (ILC) was organised to characterise 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios in geological and industrial reference materials by applying the conventional method for 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios. As reference material, four cements (VDZ 100a, VDZ 200a, VDZ 300a, IAG OPC-1), one limestone (IAG/CGL ML-3) and one slate (IAG OU-6) were selected, thus covering a wide range of Sr isotope signatures.
Sr isotope ratio analysis
(2023)
Pb isotope ratio analysis
(2023)
Detector deadtime
(2023)
Isotope Ratio Analysis
(2023)
The through-life management of our constantly ageing infrastructure is a basic requirement in order to ensure their structural safety and serviceability. Each structure experiences deterioration processes with time leading to a decrease of structural safety and serviceability. The design of new structures considers the expected deterioration for a defined period, the design service life. However, a frequent survey of structural safety controlling structural condition should be mandatory and a maintenance plan should be an integral part of the design. In addition, many structures have exceeded their design service life already or are very close to it leading to an increasing demand for condition assessment. On the one hand, assumptions made during design are not valid any more due to change of the loads, e.g., increasing traffic loads in terms of number and weights. On the other hand, design codes evolved over time in such a way that existing structures do not comply with today’s standards. In all these cases, the through-life management is an important tool to maintain the accessibility of existing structures with known reliability.
In line with the new Model Code for Concrete Structures, which includes guidance for both – design of new structures and assessment of existing structures, the Task Group 3.3 focused on the compilation of a state-of-the-art guideline for the through-life management of existing concrete structures, including:
Data acquisition by testing and monitoring techniques;
Condition assessment for the evaluation of existing structures;
Performance prediction using advanced methods;
Decision-making procedures to perform a complete assessment of existing structure.
The overall objective of the through-life management is the assessment of the current condition and the estimation of the remaining service life under consideration of all boundary conditions.
Surface functionalized silica nanoparticles (SiO2-NP) gained great interest in the life and material sciences, as they can be used e.g. as drug carriers, fluorescent sensors, and multimodal labels in bioanalytical assays and imaging applications. They are highly stable, are easily produced and modified on a large scale at low cost and can be labeled or stained with a multitude of sensor dyes. These dye modified particle conjugates have several advantages as compared to conventional molecular probes like enhanced brightness, ease of designing ratiometric systems by combining analyte-sensitive and inert reference dyes, and increased photostability. Moreover, stained nanoparticles can enable the use of hydrophobic dyes in aqueous environments.
Here we present our work on multicolored sensors for the measurement of pH, oxygen and saccharides utilizing amorphous SiO2 NPs.
In recent years, chromium (III) complexes have received a lot of attention as novel near-infrared (NIR) emitters triggered by the report on the first molecular ruby Cr(ddpd)2(BF4)3 with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 13.7% of its near infrared (NIR) emission band and a long luminescence lifetime of 1.122 ms at room temperature.[1] However, in an oxygen-containing environment, the photoluminescence quantum yields and luminescence lifetimes of these chromium(III) complexes show only very small values. This hampers their application as NIR luminescence labels. This application, that cannot be tackled by conventional deoxygenating approaches, requires suitable strategies to protect the luminescence of the chromium(III) complexes from oxygen quenching. An elegant approach to reduce the undesired luminescence quenching by triplet oxygen explored by us presents the incorporation of these chromium(III) complexes into different types of amorphous, non-porous silica nanoparticles, that can be simply surface functionalized, e.g., with targeting ligands and/or other sensor molecules. In this work, as first proof-of-concept experiments, a set of chromium (III) complexes constituting of different ligands and counter anions, were embedded into the core of silica nanoparticles. Subsequently, the optical properties of the resulting luminescent silica nanoparticles were spectroscopically assessed by steady state and time-resolved luminescence spectroscopy. First results of time-resolved luminescence measurements confirm our design concept of nanoscale NIR emissive Cr(III) complex-based reporters
Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) with various chemical compositions and surface functionalities are routinely fabricated for industrial applications such as medical diagnostics, drug delivery, sensing, catalysis, energy conversion and storage, opto-electronics, and information storage which improve the quality of life and European prosperity. NP function, performance, interaction with biological species, and environmental fate are largely determined by their surface functionalities. Standardized repeatable surface characterization methods are therefore vital for quality control of NPs, and to meet increasing concerns regarding their safety. Therefore, industry, regulatory agencies, and policymakers need validated traceable measurement methods and reference materials. This calls for fit-for-purpose, validated, and standardized methods, and reference data and materials on the surface chemistry of engineered NPs. Here, we present a concept for the development of such standardized measurement protocols utilizing method cross-validation and interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) with emphasis on both advanced measurement methods such as quantitative Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (qNMR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and cost-efficient, non-surface specific methods like optical assays and electrochemical titration methods.
Engineered and tailored nanomaterials (NM) are of great interest in the life and material sciences, as they can be used, e.g., as drug carriers, barcodes, fluorescent sensors, and multimodal labels in bioanalytical assays and imaging applications. Their performance and safety depend not only on their particle size, size distribution, and morphology, but also on their surface chemistry, i.e., the total number of surface functional groups (FG) and the number of FG accessible for subsequent functionalization with ligands or biomolecules, which in turn determines surface charge, colloidal stability, biocompatibility, and toxicity. It also underlines the importance of validated analytical methods that provide accurate information on these application-relevant physicochemical properties with a known uncertainty. In the case of FG quantification, this calls for robust, fast, inexpensive, and reliable methods which allow for the characterization of a broad variety of NM differing in size, chemical composition, and optical properties.
Methods
Aiming at the development of simple, versatile, and multimodal tools for the quantification of bioanalytically relevant FG such as amine, carboxy, thiol, and aldehyde functionalities, we investigated and compared various analytical methods commonly used for FG quantification. This includes electrochemical titration methods, dye-based optical assays, and other instrumental analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS), and thermal analysis methods.
Results
Here, we will present examples for different types of NMs and FGs including results from a currently running interlaboratory comparison (ILC) with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) to pave the road for method standardization.
Innovative aspects
• Surface analysis
• Performance and safety of nanomaterials
• Standardization
Engineered nanomaterials (NM) with their large surface-to-volume ratios and their for some materials observed size-dependent functional properties are of increasing relevance for current and future developments in various fields such as medical and pharmaceutical industry, computing and electronics or food and consumer products. The performance and safety of NM are determined by the sum of their intrinsic physicochemical properties. Especially, the particle surface chemistry, which is largely controlled by the chemical nature and density of functional groups (FG) and ligands, is an important key driver for NM performance, stability, and processibility as well as the interaction of NM with the environment. Thus, methods for FG quantification can foster the sustainable development of functional and safe(r) NM.
Aiming at the development of simple, versatile, and multimodal tools for the quantification of many bioanalytically relevant FG and ligands, we investigated and compared various analytical methods commonly used for FG quantification. This includes electrochemical titration methods, dye-based optical assays, and other instrumental analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance and thermal analysis methods.
The potential of our multimodal approach for FG quantification was demonstrated for commercial and custom-made polymeric and silica particles of varying FG, used as optical pH sensors. In the future, our strategy can contribute to establish multi-method characterization strategies to provide a more detailed picture of the structure-properties relationship.
In recent years, the use of functionalized micro- and nanomaterials has increased rapidly for a wide range of applications in the life and material sciences, due to their unique properties in combination with their high surface-to-volume ratio and stability. For instance, functionalized micro- and nanomaterials, that are labeled or stained with a multitude of sensor dyes can be used for monitoring, and quantification of neutral and ionic analytes. These materials have several advantages as compared to conventional molecular probes like enhanced brightness, ease of designing ratiometric systems by combining analyte-sensitive and inert reference dyes, and increased photostability. Moreover, stained nanoparticles can enable the use of hydrophobic dyes in aqueous environments.
Versatile templates and carriers for the fabrication of nanosensors by staining and/or labeling with different fluorophores and sensor molecules are biocompatible silica and polymeric particles, because they can be synthesized in large scales at low costs with different surface chemistries.
Here we present our work on multicolored sensors for the measurement of pH, oxygen and saccharides utilizing commercially available or in-house synthesized silica and polymeric particles.
Nowadays amorphous silica nanoparticles (SiO2-NP) are one of the most abundant engineered nanomaterials, that are highly stable and can be easily produced on a large scale at low cost. Surface functionalized SiO2-NP are of great interest in the life and material sciences, as they can be used e.g. as
drug carriers, fluorescent sensors, and multimodal labels in bioanalytical assays and imaging applications. Their performance in such applications depends not only on particle size, size distribution, and morphology, but also on surface chemistry, i.e. the total number of surface functional groups (FG)
and the number of FG accessible for subsequent functionalization with ligands or biomolecules, which in turn determines surface charge, colloidal stability, biocompatibility, and toxicity. Aiming at the development of simple, versatile, and multimodal tools for the quantification of many bioanalytically relevant FG and ligands, we investigated and compared various analytical methods commonly used for FG quantification. This includes electrochemical titration methods, dye-based optical assays, and other instrumental analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance and thermal analysis methods.
The potential of our multimodal approach for FG quantification was demonstrated for commercial and custom-made silica particles of varying FG, showing not only an influence of the synthesis methods on the number of FG but also on the performance. In the future, our strategy can contribute to establish multi-method characterization strategies to provide a more detailed picture of the structure-properties relationship.
In the focus of division Biophotonics are the design, preparation, analytical and spectroscopic characterization, and application of molecular and nanoscale
functional materials, particularly materials with a photoluminescence in the visible, near infrared (NIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR). This includes optical reporters for bioimaging and sensing, security and authentication barcodes, and materials for solid state lighting, energy conversion, and photovoltaics. For the identification of optimum particle structures quantitative spectroscopic studies are performed under application-relevant conditions, focusing on the key performance parameter photoluminescence quantum yield. In addition, simple, cost-efficient, and standardizable strategies for quantifying functional groups on the surface of nano- and microparticles are developed, here with a focus on optical assays and electrochemical titration methods, cross-validated by more advanced methods such as quantitative NMR. In addition, reference materials and reference products are developed for optical methods, particularly luminescence techniques, and for analytical methods utilized for the characterization of nanomaterials.
For fluorescence microscopy, there is an increasing need for suitable calibration tools and reference materials for microscope calibration, the determination of performance parameters, and the regular control and validation of instrument performance. This is addressed in the BmWk-financed project FluMikal (WIPANO program) by two research groups from academia and two companies, that is coordinated by BAM. Here we present different approaches to liquid and solid fluorescence standards for the determination of the wavelength-dependent spectral sensitivity of fluorescence microscopes and ideas concerning the choice of suitable fluorescence lifetime standard for increasingly utilized fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM).
The digitalization of quality control processes and the underlying data infrastructures for safety relevant components, such as hydrogen pressure vessels, plays a significant role in the transition towards Industry 4.0. In the current safety regulations for hydrogen pressure vessels, there is no established concept for structural health monitoring. The development of a reliable structural health monitoring methodology for monitoring the structural integrity of pressure vessels enables a fast-forward transition from personnel- and costintensive recurring inspections, a.k.a. periodic maintenance, to predictive maintenance. In the work presented; we investigated the application of ultrasonic guided wave propagation to monitor and assess the condition of Type IV composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV). A sensor network of fifteen piezo-electric wafers is placed on the carbon fibre reinforced composite cylinder. Five different artificial damage configurations are created by gluing two different weight blocks on three different locations. The database containing measured guided wave data sets is enriched by two different boundary conditions. We utilized an open-source software, openBIS labnotebook, to store and analyse experimental datasets. The guided wave ultrasonic signals were investigated and analysed by using commonly used ultrasonic features (e.g., amplitude, frequency, time of flight) as well as non-traditional time-series features (kurtosis, skewness, variance). The features were used to calculate damage index and the detection performance for the results has been evaluated. The results suggest that both traditional and non-traditional features assume significant importance in artificial damage detection. The future works will additionally involve the impacts of operational conditions, such as periodic pressure variations temperature loadings as well as material degradations.
The application of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPV) to store hydrogen and other compressed gases, especially when operating at high pressures, imposed the need for an innovative and reliable approach to ensure the safe operation of the system. Continuous structural health monitoring (SHM) based on ultrasonic guided waves (GWs) is a promising approach due to the ability of the wave to propagate for long distances and go around complex structures, moreover the high sensitivity to various failure modes such as delamination, matrix cracking and debonding. In this study, we scrutinize the behavior of (GWs) within the COPV using a network of PZT elements that are used for excitation and sensing. A laser doppler vibrometer (LDV) was also used to scan the surface of the vessel in various directions. L(0,1) and L(0,2) were observed in the captured signal. The L(0, 2) appeared to be a dominant mode in the COPV and was capable of propagating along the entire length and maintaining a good signal-to-noise ratio. The L(0,2) mode maintained the same phase velocity when it is captured at various excitation angles (0, 45, and 90 degrees). The reduced effect of the orthotropy of the materials on the propagating waves is an important result as it will reduce the complexity in data processing when performing damage identification.
In the event of moisture deterioration, rapid detection and localization is particularly important to prevent further deterioration and costs. For building floors, the layered structure poses a challenging obstacle for most moisture measurement methods. But especially here, layer-specific information on the depth of the water is crucial for efficient and effective repairs. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) shows the potential to generate such depth information. Therefore, the present work investigates the suitability of GPR in combination with machine learning methods for the automated classification of the typical deterioration cases (i) dry, (ii) wet insulation, and (iii) wet screed.
First, a literature review was conducted to identify the most common methods for detecting moisture in building materials using GPR. Here, it especially became clear that all publications only investigated individual time-, amplitude- or frequency features separately, without combining them. This was seen as a potential aspect for innovation, as the multivariate application of several signal features can help to overcome individual weaknesses and limitations.
Preliminary investigations carried out on drying screed samples confirmed the profitable use of multivariate evaluations. In addition to the general suitability and dependencies of various features, first limitations due to possible interference between the direct wave and the reflection wave could be identified. This is particularly evident with thin or dry materials, for which the two-way travel times of the reflected radar signals become shorter.
An extensive laboratory experiment was carried out, for which a modular test specimen was designed to enable the variation of the material type and thickness of screed and insulation, as well as the simulation of moisture deteriorations. The data collected revealed clear differences between dry and deteriored structures within measured B-scans. These deviations were to be detected with the newly introduced B-scan features, which evaluate the statistical deviation of A-scan features within a survey line. In this way, deteriorations to unknown floor structures are recognized, regardless of the material parameters present. In a subsequent training and cross-validation process of different classifiers, accuracies of over 88 \% of the 504 recorded measurements (252 different experimental setups) were achieved. For that, the combination of amplitude and frequency features, which covered all relevant reflections of the radar signals, was particularly beneficial. Furthermore, the data set showed only small differences between dry floors and deteriored screeds for the B-scan features, which could be attributed to a homogeneous distribution of the added water in the screeds. The successfully separation of these similar feature distributions raised the suspicion of overfitting, which was examined in more detail by means of a validation with on-site data.
For this purpose, investigations were carried out at five different locations in Germany, using the identical measurement method like in the laboratory. By extracting drilling cores, it was possible to determine the deterioration case for each measurement point and thus generate a corresponding reference. However, numerous data had to be sorted out before classification, since disturbances due to underfloor heating, screed reinforcements, steel beams or missing insulation prevented comparability with the laboratory experiments. Validation of the remaining data (72 B-scans) achieved only low accuracy with 53 \% correctly classified deterioration cases. Here, the previously suspected overfitting of the small decision boundary between dry setups and deteriored screeds within the laboratory proved to be a problem. The generally larger deviations within (also dry) on-site B-scans were thus frequently misclassified as screed deterioration. In addition, there were sometimes strongly varying layer thicknesses or changing cases of deterioration within a survey line, which caused additional errors due to the local limitation of the drilling core reference. Nevertheless, individual on-site examples also showed the promising potential of the applied signal features and the GPR method in general, which partly allowed a profound interpretation of the measurements. However, this interpretation still requires the experience of trained personnel and could not be automated using machine learning with the available database. Nevertheless, such experience and knowledge can be enriched by the findings of this work, which provide the basis for further research.
Future work should aim at building an open GPR data base of on-site moisture measurements on floors to provide a meaningful basis for applying machine learning. Here, referencing is a crucial point, whose limitations with respect to the moisture present and its distribution can easily reduce the potential of such efforts. The combination of several reference methods might help to overcome such limitations. Similarly, a focus on monitoring approaches can also help to reduce numerous unknown variables in moisture measurements and increase confidence in the detection of different deterioration cases.
These data sets serve as models for calculating the specific surface area (BET method) using gas sorption in accordance with ISO 9277.
The present measurements were carried out with nitrogen at 77 Kelvin and argon at 87 Kelvin.
It is recommended to use the following requirements for the molecular cross-sectional area:
Nitrogen: 0.1620 nm²
Argon: 0.1420 nm²
Titanium dioxides certified with nitrogen sorption and additionally measured with argon for research purposes were used as sample material.
The resulting data sets are intended to serve as comparative data for own measurements and show the differences in sorption behaviour and evaluations between nitrogen and argon.
These data are stored in the universal AIF format (adsorption information file), which allows flexible use of the data.
We employ in-house generated synthetic Al-Si matrix composite XCT data for training deep convolutional neural networks for XCT data conditioning and automatic segmentation. We propose an in-house multilevel deep conditioning framework capable of rectifying noise and blur in corrupted XCT data sequentially. Furthermore, for automatic segmentation, we utilize a special in-house network coupled with a novel iterative segmentation algorithm capable of generalized learning from synthetic data. We report a consistent SSIM efficiency of 92%, 99%, and 95% for the combined denoising/deblurring, standalone denoising, and standalone deblurring, respectively. The overall segmentation precision was over 85% according to the Dice coefficient. We used experimental XCT data from various scans of Al-Si matrix composites reinforced with ceramic particles and fibers.
The applications of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) in extreme conditions, such as storing hydrogen gases at very high pressure, impose new requirements related to the system's integrity and safety. The development of a structural health monitoring (SHM) system that allows for continuous monitoring of the COPVs provides rich information about the structural integrity of the component. Furthermore, the collected data can be used for different purposes such as increasing the periodic inspection intervals, providing a remaining lifetime prognosis, and also ensuring optimal operating conditions. Ultimately this information can be complementary to the development of the envisioned digital twin of the monitored COPVs. Guided waves (GWs) are preferred to be used in continuous SHM given their ability to travel in complex structures for long distances. However, obtained GW signals are complex and require advanced processing techniques. Machine learning (ML) is increasingly utilized as the main part of the processing pipeline to automatically detect anomalies in the system's integrity. Hence, in this study, we are scrutinizing the potential of using ML to provide continuous monitoring of COPVs based on ultrasonic GW data. Data is collected from a network of sensors consisting of fifteen Piezoelectric (PZT) wafers that were surface mounted on the COPV. Two ML algorithms are used in the automated evaluation procedure (i) a long short-term memory (LSTM) autoencoder for anomaly detection (defects/impact), and (ii) a convolutional neural network (CNN) model for feature extraction and classification of the artificial damage sizes and locations. Additional data augmentation steps are introduced such as modification and addition of random noise to original signals to enhance the model's robustness to uncertainties. Overall, it was shown that the ML algorithms used were able to detect and classify the simulated damage with high accuracy.
Lanthanide Nanocrystals as Authentication and Security Tags and Reporters for Optical Sensors
(2023)
Counterfeiting of goods has serious economic implications worldwide and can present a considerable threat to human health and national security, rendering product authentication more and more important. This led to an increasing interest in simple tags for anticounterfeiting and authentication applications for the integration into different materials and matrices that are robust enough to survive the respective production processes and can be read out in-situ with simple instrumentation.
Here we present a platform of chemically inert, multi-color luminescent lanthanide nanocrystals (LnNC) consisting of a NaYF4 matrix doped with Yb, Er, Tm, or Ho as promising candidates for such applications.
LnNC with characteristic multi-color emission patterns, composed of narrow bands of varying intensity in the ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, and short-wave were synthesized via a thermal decomposition approach under inert conditions[1]. The tailor-made design of different emission pattern was achieved by tuning particle size, material composition, and particle surface chemistry in upscaleable syntheses.[2] Particle size and morphology were determined by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy and the optical properties were characterized by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as fluorescence lifetime measurements.
The particles were then incorporated into security inks and consumer products. In addition, microenvironment-specific changes in the emission properties of the LnNC tag were utilized to study and sense changes of physico-chemical parameters in different matrices.
Counterfeiting of goods has serious economic implications worldwide and can be a threat to human health and safety. Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs)are ideal candidates for optical encoding of various materials. Particles with tailor-made emission patterns can be used as anti-counterfeiting markers and luminophores in security inks and to track material flows. Microenvironment-specific changes in the emission properties of the UCNP tags can be used to study, signal, and sense changes of physico-chemical parameters in different environments, e.g., building
materials.
Demonstrating competency and equivalence for the measurement capacity of contaminants and nutrients in primary foodstuffs is a priority of the OAWG 10-year strategy for Track A core comparisons. Such measurements have posed significant challenges for reference material producers and calibration service providers. This key comparison (KC), under the topic of “non- polar analyte in high carbohydrate food matrix: trans-Zearalenone (trans-ZEN) in maize powder” , was a sector of the model system selected to align with this class within the OAWG strategy. Evidence of successful participation in formal, relevant international comparisons is needed to demonstrate the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) of national metrology institutes (NMIs) and designated institutes (DIs).
17 NMIs and DIs participated in the Track A KC CCQM- 168 “non-polar analyte in high carbohydrate food matrix: trans-ZEN in maize powder” . Participants were requested to evaluate the mass fraction (μg/kg) of trans-ZEN in maize powder material. Methods like liquid-liquid extraction and SPE were applied in the pre-treatment, and HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC-FLD were used for detection by the participants. The mass fractions for trans-ZEN were in the range of (91.8 to 169) μg/kg with standard uncertainties of (1.5 to 24.7) μg/kg, and corresponding relative standard uncertainties from 1.5% to 14.6%. Two labs, INTI and BAM were excluded from the KCRV evaluation. INTI result was identified as an outlier and confirmed their method had insufficient specificity. For BAM the calibration approach they used does not meet the CIPM traceability requirements. The other 15 labs included in the calculation of the consensus KCRV all agreed within their standard uncertainties. Hierarchical Bayes was used as estimators in calculating KCRV and standard uncertainty.
Successful participation in CCQM-K168 demonstrates the measurement capabilities in determining mass fraction of organic compounds, with molecular mass of 100 g/mol to 500 g/mol, having low polarity pKow < -2, in mass fraction range from 1 μg/kg to 1000 μg/kg in a high carbohydrate food matrix.
Use of the solvent-free mechanochemical method for a sustainable preparation of pharmaceuticals
(2023)
With the growing interest in environmental issues on the part of governments and institutions, pharmaceutical industries are asked to reduce their environmental footprint. Given the major impact related to the use of solvents, the development of methodologies less solvent demanding is nowadays even more urgent. In light of that, mechanochemistry would be a suitable solvent-free technology since it promotes the activation of the chemical reactions between (generally) solid materials via inputs of mechanical energy. Since such reactions may occur outside the kinetic and thermodynamic rules of conventional solution chemistry, the main limit of mechanochemistry is the poor mechanistic understanding of the solid-state transformations involved, which is still hindering a widespread use of the method, as well a scale-up to the industrial level. However, the development of methods for real-time monitoring of the mechanochemical reactions enables obtaining (in)accessible information on reaction intermediates, new products, or reaction time, thus getting closer to a better understanding of the mechanistic behaviour. With the rules of this chemistry becoming increasingly clear, the new reaction pathways of mechanochemistry wouldn’t represent a limit anymore, but an asset, that may lead to lot of opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry.
Thermal Destruction of PFAS
(2023)
Thermal treatment processes are currently the only full-scale option for thedestruction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in large waste streams. While all organic molecules including PFAS are susceptible to thermal destruction, their decomposition rates are controlled by process variables such as temperature, reaction atmosphere, and residence time. Concerns exist about the formation of products of incomplete destruction and their emission from hazardous waste incinerators. This talk will summarize the current stateof-the-art of thermal PFAS destruction, identify research needs, and showcase future research designed to address critical knowledge gaps.
The application of compact NMR instruments to continuously flowing samples at higher temperatures or exothermically reacting mixtures is limited by the temperature sensitivity of permanent magnets. Typically, such temperature effects directly influence the achievable magnetic field homogeneity and hence measurement quality. The internal-temperature control loop of the magnet and instruments is typically not designed for compensation of such effects. Passive insulation is restricted by the small dimensions within the magnet borehole.
Here, we present a design approach for active heat shielding with the aim of variable temperature control of NMR samples for benchtop NMR instruments using a compressed airstream which is variable in flow and temperature. Based on the system identification and surface temperature measurements using an optical thermo-graphy setup, a model predictive control was set up to minimize any disturbance effect on the permanent magnet from the probe or sample temperature.
This methodology will facilitate the application of variable-temperature shielding and, therefore, potentially extend the application of compact NMR instruments to flowing samples at higher temperature than the permanent magnet.
The BAMline at the synchrotron X-ray source BESSY II (Berlin, Germany) is supporting researchers especially in materials science. As a non-destructive characterization method, synchrotron X-ray imaging, especially tomography with hard X-Rays, plays an important role in structural 3D characterization. The imaging capabilities allow for in-situ and operando experiments. In this presentation the data handling pipeline is presented.
This report summarizes findings from the first comprehensive study on digitalization in conformity assessment in Africa. The reults are based on data from a survey among conformity assessment bodies (CABs) conducted in 2023. It highlights the digital maturity of the organizations, the motives, benefits and obstacles of digital transformation as well as the actual technology trends.
This study is part of a global project that covers various other countries (see www.qi-fokus.de).
In this paper, we demonstrate the value of 1H NMR relaxometry for studying the hydration of clinker-reduced, more climate-friendly cementitious binders. The results were obtained on typical CEM I cements and sister samples containing two different reactive agricultural ashes as well as non-reactive biochars as supplementary cementitious materials. The findings prove that time-resolved NMR measurements provide valuable additional information when combined with classical heat flow calorimetry.
High polarity analyte(s) in aqueous media: determination of L-PFOA and L-PFOS in ground water
(2022)
The CCQM-K156 comparison was coordinated by TUBITAK UME on behalf of the Organic Analysis Working Group (OAWG) of the Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière (CCQM) for National Measurement Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) which provide measurement services in organic analysis under the 'Comité International des Poids et Mesures' Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Perfluoro alkyl substances (PFAS) such as PFOS and PFOA have been used in numerous industrial applications and products. Because of their high stability and resistance to biodegradation, atmospheric photooxidation, direct photolysis and hydrolysis, they are extremely persistent in the environment. The European Union (EU) Water Framework Directive lists PFOS as a priority hazardous substance that poses a significant risk to the aquatic environment. The use of PFOS-containing Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFFs) has been banned since June 2011 in the EU. As relatively water-soluble, effectively non-degradable compounds, PFOS and PFOA migrate to ground water. They are not removed in the conventional drinking water treatment, and therefore cause health risks in polluted areas. The EU Drinking Water Directive and the European Commission has proposed a limit value of 100 ng/L for the sum of 20 PFAS, including PFOS and PFOA.
This study provides the means for assessing measurement capabilities for determination of high polarity measurands in a procedure that requires extraction, clean-up, analytical separation and detection. Successful participation in CCQM-K156 demonstrates measurement capabilities in determining mass fraction of organic compounds, with a molecular mass of 200 g/mol to 700 g/mol, having high polarity pKow -2, in a mass fraction range from 0.5 ng/kg to 500 ng/kg in aqueous media.
Nine NMIs and DIs participated in the CCQM-K156 key comparison. Seven institutes reported their results. SPE was applied in the sample pre-treatment and LC-MS was applied for detection. All participating laboratories applied isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) techniques for quantification. Participants established the metrological traceability of their results using certified reference materials (CRMs) from NMIs with stated traceability; where commercially available high purity materials were used the purity was determined in-house. The CCQM-K156 results for L-PFOA and L-PFOS range from 2.75 ng/kg to 5.50 ng/kg with a % RSD of 19.5 % for L-PFOA and from 2.04 ng/kg to 4.45 ng/kg with a % RSD of 21.3 % for L-PFOS. The KCRV was assigned using a Hierarchical Bayesian Random Effects Model (HB REM) estimator from the values reported by six of the participants. One participant result of L-PFOS and one result of L-PFOA were excluded from the KCRV for technical reasons. The KCRV was 4.9 ng/kg ± 0.4 ng/kg for L-PFOA and 3.8 ng/kg ± 0.4 ng/kg for L-PFOS. The six institutes that were included in the assignment of consensus KCRV all agreed within their standard uncertainties.
To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.
The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
The lack of traceability to meter of X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) measurements still hinders a more extensive acceptance of CT in coordinate metrology and industry. To ensure traceable, reliable, and accurate measurements, the determination of the task-specific measurement uncertainty is necessary. The German guideline VDI/VDE 2630 part 2.1 describes a procedure to determine the measurement uncertainty for CT experimentally by conducting several repeated measurements with a calibrated test specimen. However, this experimental procedure is cost and effort intensive. Therefore, the simulation of dimensional measurement tasks conducted with X-ray computed tomography can close these drawbacks. Additionally, recent developments towards a resource and cost-efficient production (“smart factory”) motivate the need for a corresponding numerical model of a CT system (“digital twin”) as well. As there is no standardized procedure to determine the measurement uncertainty of a CT system by simulation at the moment, the project series CTSimU was initiated, aiming at this gap. Concretely, the goal is the development of a procedure to determine the measurement uncertainty numerically by radiographic simulation. The first project (2019-2022), "Radiographic Computed Tomography Simulation for Measurement Uncertainty Evaluation - CTSimU" developed a framework to qualify a radiographic simulation software concerning the correct simulation of physical laws and functionalities. The most important outcome was a draft for a new guideline VDI/VDE 2630 part 2.2, which is currently under discussion in the VDI/VDE committee. The follow-up project CTSimU2 "Realistic Simulation of real CT systems with a basic-qualified Simulation Software" will deal with building and characterizing a digital replica of a specific real-world CT system. The two main targets of this project will be a toolbox including methods and procedures to configure a realistic CT system simulation and to develop tests to check if this replica is sufficient enough. The result will be a draft for a follow-up VDI/VDE guideline proposing standardized procedures to determine a CT system's corresponding characteristics and test the simulation (copy) of a real-world CT system which we call a "digital twin".
Referenzmaterialien sind unter anderem ein wichtiges Werkzeug zur Qualitätskontrolle von Messungen bestimmter Merkmalswerte. Dabei ist zu berücksichtigen, dass zertifizierte Merkmalswerte immer eine gewisse Unsicherheit haben. Die Ermittlung dieser Unsicherheitsbeiträge ist Gegenstand des Vortrags. Referenzmaterialien sind gleichzeitig ein wertvolles Werkzeug zur Ermittlung der Unsicherheit von Messverfahren und -Analysen unbekannter Proben. Die Vorgehensweise bei der Ermittlung der Messunsicherheit mit Hilfe eines Referenzmaterials wird beschrieben.
An introductory lecture on the Dark Side of Science; what it is, why it exists, and what can be done to fight it. This lecture illuminates the increasing prevalence of fraudulent scientific work (e.g. faked data, manipulated images, paper mills) with plenty of examples and sources. The second section expands on the driving forces that caused this phenomenon to emerge, largely driven by pressures from management, peers and the researcher themselves. The third section expands on methods and tools that can be used to educate and arm oneself against this phenomenon. The 2023 edition includes new examples of larger fraudulent bodies of work emerging, and the problems posed by the arrival of LLMs.
The project series CTSimU was initiated with the goal to develop a set of procedures to enable the determination of the task-specific measurement uncertainty of a CT system numerically by radiographic simulation. The first project (2019-2022) “Radiographic Computed Tomography Simulation for Measurement Uncertainty Evaluation - CTSimU” was focused on the sufficient physical correctness of the radiographic simulation and created as a result a test framework for simulation softwares and a draft of a VDI standard in the series VDI/VDE 2630 for this application. However, for the realistic simulation of a CT system in a simulation software (i.e. a digital twin), not only the correctness of the simulation software itself is crucial, but also the quality of the parameterization of the CT system in the simulation software - this represents the starting point of the 2nd project “Realistic Simulation of real CT systems with a basic-qualified Simulation Software - CTSimU2” (2022-2024).
The parameterization of a CT system in a simulation software can be divided into four steps: after the data acquisition at the real CT system (step 1) follows the evaluation of the acquired data for the generation of general parameter specifications (step 2). It follows the transfer of the parameters into the specific simulation software (step 3) and the validation of the resulting simulation parameters by a suitable test (step 4). The intended result of the project CTSimU2 is a draft VDI standard (for VDI/VDE 2630) for this test, which contains an informative annex on the state of the art regarding the possibilities for parameter determination.
The possibility of obtaining high-purity, isotopically modified and nanostructured elemental substances 29Si, 98Mo, and 100Mo, as well as 98Mox10By compounds from volatile halides under conditions of laser optical breakdown of a pulsed Nd:YAG laser is shown. Currently, research in the field of developing new methods for obtaining high-purity, isotopically modified and nanostructured substances is being actively conducted. Interest in Si and Mo combining these forms has noticeably increased. In nuclear medicine, 29Si-enriched nanoparticles can be used as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 98Mo and 100Mo isotopes can be used to obtain the unstable 99mTc radioisotope. These applications do not require large amounts of isotopically modified Si and Mo. Their obtaining belongs to the problems of small chemistry. When obtaining isotopically modified Si and Mo, it is expedient to use their volatile fluorides, for which technologies of isotope enrichment and deep purification are well developed. These halides have high chemical and thermal stability; therefore, plasma-chemical methods based on the plasma of a pulsed discharge generated by laser breakdown can be promising for separating 29Si, 98Mo, and 100Mo from them. Laser breakdown in H2+Ar+SiF4 and H2+Ar+MoF6 mixtures in various stoichiometric ratios in the pressure range 30–760 Torr was carried out using a pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The pulse duration at a wavelength of 1064 nm was 15 ns, the repetition rate was 5 Hz. A pulse energy of 800 mJ was focused by a lens with a focal length of 5 cm. The energy density at the focus was 26 J/cm3 . It has been shown that when using a mixture based on 29SiF4, the sample contains a 29Si crystalline phase with an average grain size of 30–50 nm (Fig. 1a). When using a mixture based on 98MoF6, the sample contains a 98Mo crystalline phase with an average grain size of 70–100 nm (Fig. 1b). In this type of gas discharge, the possibility of forming superhard materials, isotopically modified molybdenum borides, was also studied. These substances in the form of nanosized particles have improved tribological properties. After ablation of metallic Mo in the H2 + BF3 mixture, the main phase was MoB2 in the form of a nanodispersed powder with an average grain size of 100 nm (Fig. 1c) [1]. A technique for modeling gas-dynamic and thermal conditions in a low-temperature chemically active plasma induced by laser breakdown is proposed. Using computational experiments, the features of gas mixture heating and the formation of nanoparticles in the LIBS reactor were studied
Virtual CT with aRTist
(2023)
The software aRTist is a simulation tool for the generation of realistic radiographs of virtual radiographic superstructures.
With radiographic simulations, virtual component models can be scanned as in a computer tomograph.
Industrial X-ray computed tomography (CT) enables the non-destructive detection of internal and external surfaces as well as inhomogeneities of technical objects. Virtual CT offers new possibilities for the investigation of parameter influences of this complex testing and measuring technique. In addition to the option of switching physical effects on and off, scanning movements can also be tested before their technical realization.
The virtual CT generates projection images from different directions for the subsequent reconstruction of a volume model of the examined object. The reconstruction of the simulated scans is carried out with the algorithms and programs for real scans. Tomographic scans consist of a large number of projections, which practically cannot be generated individually by the user of a simulation. The software offers various options for the automated simulation of tomographic scans. These range from standard CT to scans on free trajectories or with individual projection matrices.