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Pyrolysis
Kinds of Pyrolysis Terms modified by Pyrolysis Selected AbstractsCrystallization behaviors of carbon fiber reinforced BN-Si3N4 matrix compositeCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 7 2007Bin Li Abstract The crystallization behaviors of a new carbon fiber reinforced composite with a hybrid matrix comprising BN and Si3N4 prepared by precursor infiltration and pyrolysis were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the as-received composite is almost amorphous, and its main composition is BN and Si3N4. When heat treated at 1600°C, the composite is crystallized and shows a much better crystal form. When heat treated at 2100°C, Si3N4 in the matrix is decomposed, and BN exhibits a relatively complete crystallization. The existence of B4C and SiC is detected, which indicates the interfacial chemical reactions between nitride matrices and carbon fibers. The surface morphology of carbon fibers in the composite changed significantly when heated from 1600 to 2100°C, which also proved the occurrence of interfacial chemical reactions. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Using Rock-Eval 6 pyrolysis for tracking fossil organic carbon in modern environments: implications for the roles of erosion and weatheringEARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 2 2006Yoann Copard Abstract This work relates to the debate on the fossil organic carbon (FOC) input in modern environments and its possible implication for the carbon cycle, and suggests the use of Rock-Eval 6 pyrolysis as a relevant tool for tracking FOC in such environments. Considering that such a delivery is mainly due to supergene processes affecting the continental surface, we studied organic matter in different reservoirs such as bedrocks, alterites, soils and rivers in two experimental catchments at Draix (Alpes de Haute Provence, France). Samples were subjected to geochemical (Rock-Eval 6 pyrolysis) investigations and artificial bacterial degradations. After comparing the geochemical fingerprint of samples, geochemical markers of FOC were defined and tracked in the different reservoirs. Our results confirm the contribution of FOC in modern soils and rivers and display the various influences of weathering and erosional processes on the fate of FOC during its exchange between these pools. In addition, the contrasting behaviour of these markers upon the supergene processes has also highlighted the refractory or labile characters of the fossil organic matter (FOM). Bedrock to river fluxes, controlled by gully erosion, are characterized by a qualitative and quantitative preservation of FOM. Bedrock to alterite fluxes, governed by chemical weathering, are characterized by FOC mineralization without qualitative changes in deeper alterites. Alterite to soils fluxes, controlled by (bio)chemical weathering, are characterized by strong FOC mineralization and qualitative changes of FOM. Thus weathering and erosional processes induce different FOM evolution and affect the fate of FOC towards the global carbon cycle. In this study, gully erosion would involve maintenance of an ancient sink for the global carbon cycle, while (bio)chemical processes provide a source of CO2. Finally, this study suggests that Rock-Eval 6 pyrolysis can be considered as a relevant tool for tracking FOC in modern environments. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] The Dry Limit of Microbial Life in the Atacama Desert Revealed by Calorimetric ApproachesENGINEERING IN LIFE SCIENCES (ELECTRONIC), Issue 5 2008N. Barros Abstract The Atacama desert in Chile is one of the driest and most lifeless environments on Earth. It rains possibly once a decade. NASA examined these soils as a model for the Martian environment by comparing their degradation activity with Martian soil and looking for "the dry limit of life". The existence of heterotrophic bacteria in Atacama soil was demonstrated by DNA extraction and by the isolation of microorganisms. So far, however, no data have been available about the metabolic activities in these soils due to the limitations of the existing methodologies when applied to desert soils. Calorimetry was used to obtain information on the metabolic and thermal properties of eleven soil samples collected at different sites in the Atacama desert. Differential scanning calorimetry and isothermal calorimetry were employed to determine the pyrolysis properties of the carbon-containing matter and to measure biomass and microbial metabolism. They were compared to other soil properties such as total carbon and nitrogen, carbon to nitrogen ratio and pH. There was measurable organic matter in nine of the eleven samples and the heat of pyrolysis of those soils was correlated to the carbon content. In five of the eleven samples no biomass could be detected and the existence of basal microbial metabolism could not be established because all samples showed endothermic activity, probably from inorganic reactions with water. Six samples showed microbial activation after the addition of glucose. Carbon content, nitrogen content and the microbial activity after glucose amendment were correlated to the altitude and to the average minimum temperature of the sampling sites calculated from meteorological data. The detectable microbial metabolism was more dissipative with increasing altitude and decreasing temperature. [source] Characterization of biochar from fast pyrolysis and gasification systemsENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 3 2009Catherine E. Brewer Abstract Thermochemical processing of biomass produces a solid product containing char (mostly carbon) and ash. This char can be combusted for heat and power, gasified, activated for adsorption applications, or applied to soils as a soil amendment and carbon sequestration agent. The most advantageous use of a given char depends on its physical and chemical characteristics, although the relationship of char properties to these applications is not well understood. Chars from fast pyrolysis and gasification of switchgrass and corn stover were characterized by proximate analysis, CHNS elemental analysis, Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface area, particle density, higher heating value (HHV), scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence ash content analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy using a photo-acoustic detector (FTIR-PAS), and quantitative 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) using direct polarization and magic angle spinning. Chars from the same feedstocks produced under slow pyrolysis conditions, and a commercial hardwood charcoal, were also characterized. Switchgrass and corn stover chars were found to have high ash content (32,55 wt %), much of which was silica. BET surface areas were low (7,50 m2/g) and HHVs ranged from 13 to 21 kJ/kg. The aromaticities from NMR, ranging between 81 and 94%, appeared to increase with reaction time. A pronounced decrease in aromatic CH functionality between slow pyrolysis and gasification chars was observed in NMR and FTIR-PAS spectra. NMR estimates of fused aromatic ring cluster size showed fast and slow pyrolysis chars to be similar (,7,8 rings per cluster), while higher-temperature gasification char was much more condensed (,17 rings per cluster). © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009 [source] Pilot-scale combustion of fast-pyrolysis bio-oil: Ash deposition and gaseous emissionsENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 3 2009Ala Khodier Abstract Fast pyrolysis is a promising method to transform solid biomass into a liquid product called "bio-oil" with an energy density of four to five times greater than the feedstock. The process involves rapidly heating biomass to 450,600°C in the absence of air and condensing the vapor produced to give bio-oil. Typically, 50,75% (weight) of the feedstock is converted into bio-oil that has a number of uses, for example energy production or bio-refinery feedstock. This study investigated the gaseous emissions and ash deposition characteristics resulting from bio-oil combustion in a pilot scale combustion test rig at Cranfield University. A feeding system with heated lines and heated/stirred reservoir was used to feed a spray nozzle in the combustion chamber. Ash deposit samples were collected from the resulting flue gas using three air-cooled probes that simulate heat exchanger tubes with surface temperatures of 500, 600, and 700°C. The deposits formed were analyzed using SEM/EDX and XRD techniques to assess the corrosion potential of the deposits. The results are compared to measured ash deposit compositions formed from biomass combustion. Thermodynamic modeling software was used to make predictions for the partitioning of a range of elements for bio-oil combustion and the results compared to the measured data. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009 [source] A life cycle assessment of mechanical and feedstock recycling options for management of plastic packaging wastesENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 2 2005Floriana Perugini Abstract Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology is generally considered one of the best environmental management tools that can be used to compare alternative eco-performances of recycling or disposal systems. It considers the environment as a whole, including indirect releases, energy and material consumption, emissions in the environment, and waste disposal and follows each activity from the extraction of raw materials to the return of wastes to the ground (cradle-to-grave approach). The study refers to the whole Italian system for recycling of household plastic packaging wastes. The aim was to quantify the overall environmental performances of mechanical recycling of plastic containers in Italy and to compare them with those of conventional options of landfilling or incineration and of a couple of innovative processes of feedstock recycling, low-temperature fluidized bed pyrolysis, and high-pressure hydrogenation. The results confirm that recycling scenarios are always preferable to those of nonrecycling. They also highlight the good environmental performance of new plastic waste management schemes that couple feedstock and mechanical recycling processes. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2005 [source] Contaminant pattern and bioaccumulation of legacy and emerging organhalogen pollutants in the aquatic biota from an e-waste recycling region in South ChinaENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2010Ying Zhang Abstract Legacy pollutants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs), and some emerging organhalogen pollutants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromobenzene (HBB), pentabromotoluene (PBT), 2,3,4,5,6-pentabromoethyl benzene (PBEB), 1,2- bis (2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE), and dechlorane plus (DP), were detected in an aquatic food chain (invertebrates and fish) from an e-waste recycling region in South China. Polychlorinated biphenyls, DDTs, PBDEs, and HBB were detected in more than 90% of the samples, with respective concentrations ranging from not detected (ND),32,000,ng/g lipid weight, ND,850,ng/g lipid weight, 8 to 1,300,ng/g lipid weight, and 0.28 to 240,ng/g lipid weight. Pentabromotoluene, PBEB, BTBPE, and DP were also quantifiable in collected samples with a concentration range of ND,40,ng/g lipid weight. The elevated levels of PCBs and PBDEs in the organisms, compared with those in non-e-waste regions in South China, suggest that these two kinds of pollutants derived mainly from e-waste recycling practices. Hexabromobenzene was significantly correlated with PBDEs, implying that HBB come from the release of e-waste along with PBDEs and/or the pyrolysis of BDE209. Most of the compounds whose trophic magnification factor (TMF) could be calculated were found to biomagnify (TMF > 1). Hexabromobenzene was also found, for the first time, to biomagnify in the present food web, with a TMF of 2.1. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:852,859. © 2010 SETAC [source] Influence of Surface Chemistry on Dehydrogenation in Carbon Cryogel Ammonia Borane NanocompositesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 5 2009Saghar Sepehri Abstract This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of boron- and nitrogen-modified carbon cryogel (CC) ammonia borane (AB) nanocomposites (BNCC-AB) for hydrogen storage. Resorcinol,formaldehyde (RF) derived CCs were modified by homogeneous dispersion of AB in RF hydrogel prior to pyrolysis. Nanocomposites were fabricated by immersing CC in the AB solution. Nitrogen sorption analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry at multiple heating rates were used to study the structure and dehydrogenation properties of the nanocomposites. The results demonstrated lower dehydrogenation temperatures and reduced activation energies for AB when confined inside pores of B- and N-modified CCs relative to AB when confined in the unmodified CC with the same pore size.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009) [source] Versatility of Laser Pyrolysis Applied to the Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticles , Application to UV AttenuationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2008Bruno Pignon Abstract TiO2 nanoparticles show interesting catalytic and optical properties and are therefore highly demanded for several applications. In this paper, we show that pure and N-doped TiO2 powders with an average diameter as low as 8 nm can be synthesized by laser pyrolysis, with the use of an aerosol of TTIP (titanium tetraisopropoxide) as the main precursor sensitized by C2H4. We demonstrate the possibility to control the anatase/rutile phase ratio over a large range, which was not achieved before, by tuning the experimental parameters. N-doped particles have also been produced for the first time by this method by using a one-step process through addition of NH3. First results illustrating the consequences in terms of UV absorption properties are also presented and correlated with the structural evolution and the presence of a doping element.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008) [source] Slip Casting of ZrB2,SiC Composite Aqueous SuspensionsADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 3 2010Valentina Medri Slip casting of concentrated aqueous suspensions was set up as forming technique for the production of crucibles from ZrB2,SiC composite powder. The dispersion effectiveness and the effect on the final microstructures of two commercial ammonium polyacrylates (Duramax D3005 and Dolapix PC33) used as dispersants were investigated. The first goal was pursued by evaluating the zeta potential of the powders in water at different concentrations of additives, while the second one was assessed by analyzing the microstructure. Duramax D3005 resulted more effective than Dolapix PC33 in electrostatically stabilize the suspensions. Correspondently, almost homogeneous microstructures and lower final porosity of the sintered crucibles were obtained with Duramax D3005, while ZrB2 layers on the vertical surfaces initially in contact with the plaster molds were observed using Dolapix PC33. Moreover, the use of this latter dispersant did not allow the preparation of thick crucible walls due to the sample rupture during the binders pyrolysis stage. [source] Determination of refractory organic matter in marine sediments by chemical oxidation, analytical pyrolysis and solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 3 2008J. M. De La Rosa Summary Seeking to quantify the amount of refractory organic matter (ROM), which includes black carbon-like material (BC), in marine sediments, we have applied a two-step procedure that consists of a chemical oxidation with sodium chlorite of the demineralized sediments followed by integration of the aromatic C region in the remaining residues by solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The efficacy for lignin removal was tested by analytical pyrolysis in the presence of tetramethyl ammonium hydroxide (TMAH). Riverine, estuarine and offshore marine sediment samples were collected from the southwest Atlantic coast of Spain, a site of geological and environmental interest. Measured contents of BC-like material ranged between 3.0 and 45.7% of the total organic carbon. Greater relative BC contents were found in riverine sediments close to urban areas, which show an elevated input of anthropogenic organic material. The contents of BC-like material in offshore marine sediments (5.5,6.1%) were similar to those previously reported for these kinds of samples. However, NMR and pyrolysis-GC/MS of the isolated ROM reveals that abundant refractory aliphatic organic material remains in most of the marine samples after chlorite oxidation. We suggest that this pool of aliphatic carbon may play an important role as a stable carbon pool within the global C cycle. [source] High-Performance Carbon-LiMnPO4 Nanocomposite Cathode for Lithium BatteriesADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 19 2010Seung-Min Oh Abstract A cathode material of an electrically conducting carbon-LiMnPO4 nanocomposite is synthesized by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis followed by ball milling. The effect of the carbon content on the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of this material is extensively studied. A LiMnPO4 electrode with 30 wt% acetylene black (AB) carbon exhibits an excellent rate capability and good cycle life in cell tests at 55 and 25 °C. This electrode delivers a discharge capacity of 158 mAh g,1 at 1/20 C, 126 mAh g,1 at 1 C, and 107 mAh g,1 at 2 C rate, which are the highest capacities reported so far for this type of electrode. Transmission electron microscopy and Mn dissolution results confirm that the carbon particles surrounding the LiMnPO4 protect the electrode from HF attack, and thus lead to a reduction of the Mn dissolution that usually occurs with this electrode. The improved electrochemical properties of the C-LiMnPO4 electrode are also verified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. [source] Time,Temperature,Transformation (TTT) Diagrams for Crystallization of Metal Oxide Thin FilmsADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2010Jennifer L. M. Rupp Abstract Time,temperature,transformation (TTT) diagrams are proposed for the crystallization of amorphous metal oxide thin films and their specific characteristics are discussed in comparison to glass-based materials, such as glass-ceramics and metallic glasses. The films crystallize from amorphous to full crystallinity in the solid state. As an example the crystallization kinetics for a single-phase metal oxide, ceria, and its gadolinia solid solutions are reported made by the precipitation thin-film method spray pyrolysis. The crystallization of an amorphous metal oxide thin film generally follows the Lijschitz,Sletow,Wagner (LSW) Ostwald ripening theory: Below the percolation threshold of 20 vol% single grains crystallize in the amorphous phase and low crystallization rates are measured. In this state no impact of solute on crystallization is measurable. Once the grains form primary clusters above the threshold the solute slows down crystallization (and grain growth) thus shifting the TTT curves of the doped ceria films to longer times and higher temperatures in comparison to undoped ceria. Current views on crystallization of metal oxide thin films, the impact of solute dragging, and primary TTT diagrams are discussed. Finally, examples on how to use these TTT diagrams for better thermokinetic engineering of metal oxide thin films for MEMS are given, for example, for micro-Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and resistive sensors. In these examples the electrical properties depend on the degree of crystallinity and, thereby, on the TTT conditions. [source] High-Surface-Area Nanoporous Boron Carbon Nitrides for Hydrogen StorageADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 11 2010David Portehault Abstract Nano- and mesoporous boron carbon nitrides with very high surface areas up to 1560,m2,g,1 are obtained by pyrolysis of a graphitic carbon nitride mpg-C3N4 infiltrated with a borane complex. This reactive hard-templating approach provides easy composition and texture tuning by temperature adjustment between 800 and 1400,°C. The process yields BxCyNzOvHw materials as direct copies of the initial template with controlled compositions of 0.15,,,x,,,0.36, 0.10,,,y,,,0.12, 0.14,,,z,,, 0.32, and 0.11,,,v,,,0.28. The nano and mesoporosities can also be tuned in order to provide hierarchical materials with specific surface areas ranging from 610 to 1560,m2,g,1. Such high values, coupled with resistance against air oxidation up to 700,°C, suggest potential materials for gas storage and as catalyst supports. Indeed, it is demonstrated that these compounds exhibit high and tunable H2 uptakes from 0.55 to 1.07,wt.% at 77,K and 1 bar, thus guiding further search of materials for hydrogen storage. [source] Interplay of Properties and Functions upon Introduction of Mesoporosity in ITQ-4 ZeoliteADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 9 2010Danny Verboekend Abstract The introduction of mesoporosity in zeolites is often directly coupled to changes in their overall catalytic performance without the detailed assessment of other key functions required for the rational design of the catalytic process such as accessibility, adsorption, and transport. This study presents an integrated approach to study property,function relationships in hierarchical zeolites. Accordingly, desilication of the 1D ITQ-4 zeolite in alkaline medium is applied to develop different degrees of mesoporosity. Along with porosity modification, significant changes in composition, structure, and acidity occur. Relationships are established between the physicochemical properties of the zeolites and their characteristics in the adsorption and elution of light hydrocarbons (C2 to C5, alkanes and alkenes) as well as in the catalytic activity in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) pyrolysis. The recently introduced hierarchy factor can appropriately relate porosity changes to catalytic performance. [source] Application of a simple enthalpy-based pyrolysis model in numerical simulations of pyrolysis of charring materialsFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 1 2010S. R. Wasan Abstract A new, simple pyrolysis model for charring materials is applied to several numerical and experimental test cases with variable externally imposed heat fluxes. The model is based on enthalpy. A piecewise linear temperature field representation is adopted, in combination with an estimate for the pyrolysis front position. Chemical kinetics are not accounted for: the pyrolysis process takes place in an infinitely thin front, at the ,pyrolysis temperature'. The evolution in time of pyrolysis gases mass flow rates and surface temperatures is discussed. The presented model is able to reproduce numerical reference results, which were obtained with the more complex moving mesh model. It performs better than the integral model. We illustrate good agreement with numerical reference results for variable thickness and boundary conditions. This reveals that the model provides good results for the entire range of thermally thin and thermally thick materials. It also shows that possible interruption of the pyrolysis process, due to excessive heat losses, is automatically predicted with the present approach. Finally, an experimental test case is considered. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Interaction of a phosphorus-based FR, a nanoclay and PA6,Part 1: Interaction of FR and nanoclayFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 6 2009Alwar Ramani Abstract The thermal decomposition of organophosphorus fire-retardant (OP1311) and/ or organonanoclay (Cloisite 30B) is hereby investigated employing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), to give an insight into their intrinsic behaviour and interaction in polymer nanocomposites for fire safety applications, because the addition of OP1311 and Cloisite 30B in Polyamide 6 (PA6) seems to have a synergistic effect on the thermal decomposition of PA6 (part 2 of the paper). An important objective of this research was to determine to what extent phosphorus components escape in the gaseous phase, which will affect the heat of combustion of the fire-retarded polymer. The decomposition products arising from pyrolysis and combustion are investigated by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Under pyrolytic conditions, the inclusion of Cloisite 30B into OP1311 (FR) shows a synergistic effect on the initial mass loss at low temperature of ,280,420°C and leads to the acceleration of the thermal degradation process. While the DTG curve of Cloisite 30B shows two distinct degradation peaks (steps) that of OP1311 and OP1311 plus Cloisite 30B show four degradation steps. TGA measurements of OP1311 in nitrogen show more mass loss than in air, whereas Cloisite 30B gives similar amounts of mass loss in air and nitrogen. In nitrogen, the major evolved gaseous species from Cloisite 30B alone are hydrocarbons, 2-(diethylamino)ethanol and water, whereas the evolved gases from that of OP1311 at ,320°C are mainly water, at ,420°C, carbon dioxide, water and ammonia and at 480,570°C diethylphosphinic acid. Under thermo-oxidative conditions, the gases evolved are mainly carbon dioxide and water from both Cloisite 30B and OP1311. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] A pyrolysis model of charring materials considering the effect of ambient oxygen concentrationFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 7 2007W. G. Weng Abstract In this paper, a one-dimensional integral model is developed to describe the processes involved in the transient pyrolysis of a semi-infinite charring material subjected to a constant radiant heat flux. In this model, a special factor that shows the effect on pyrolysis is considered, i.e. under the oxygen-containing atmosphere. The model tracks the char layer depth, thermal penetration depth, surface temperature and mass loss rate. Comparison with experimental results demonstrates that the predictions of the mass loss rate and temperature profile within the charring material are in good agreement with the experiment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Development of fire-retarded materials,Interpretation of cone calorimeter dataFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 5 2007B. Schartel Abstract There is little consensus within the fire science community on interpretation of cone calorimeter data, but there is a significant need to screen new flammability modified materials using the cone calorimeter. This article is the result of several discussions aiming to provide guidance in the use and interpretation of cone calorimetry for those directly involved with such measurements. This guidance is essentially empirical, and is not intended to replace the comprehensive scientific studies that already exist. The guidance discusses the fire scenario with respect to applied heat flux, length scale, temperature, ventilation, anaerobic pyrolysis and set-up represented by the cone calorimeter. The fire properties measured in the cone calorimeter are discussed, including heat release rate and its peak, the mass loss and char yield, effective heat of combustion and combustion efficiency, time to ignition and CO and smoke production together with deduced quantities such as FIGRA and MARHE. Special comments are made on the use of the cone calorimeter relating to sample thickness, textiles, foams and intumescent materials, and the distance of the cone heater from the sample surface. Finally, the relationship between cone calorimetry data and other tests is discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Surface temperature of decomposing construction materials studied by laser-induced phosphorescenceFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 1 2005Alaa Omrane Abstract Measurements of surface temperature and mass loss of decomposing construction materials during rapid pyrolysis are presented. Experiments have been performed with samples of low-density fiberboard, medium-density fiberboard, particleboard and poly(methyl methacrylate) in a single particle reactor at temperatures between 300° and 600°C. Ultraviolet laser light was used to excite micrometer-sized thermographic phosphor particles that were deposited on the investigated materials, and the temperature was obtained from temporally resolved measurements of the laser-induced emission. The wood-based materials show a similar behavior, with small differences being attributed to differences in material properties. The surface temperature rapidly increases to about 400°C when a particle is introduced to the hot reactor. The initial phase is followed by rapid decomposition during which the surface temperature is 380°,540°C. The heating rate is slowed down during the rapid pyrolysis, and again increases as the remaining char is heated to the reactor temperature. The poly (methyl methacrylate), however, melts and at high temperatures can be characterized as a liquid with a boiling point of about 400°C. Thermographic phosphors are concluded to be suitable for high precision remote measurements of the surface temperature of decomposing construction materials, and possibilities for further studies and developments of the technique are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Short Communication: application of a surrogate material in assessing the impact of porosity on re-ignition of wood-based materialsFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 2 2002Behdad Moghtaderi Re-ignition behaviour of charred solid fuels after extinction by water is studied. In this communication the effect of material porosity on re-ignition is investigated. A surrogate ceramic material is used so as to separate the pyrolysis and combustion processes from those associated with heat transfer. Experimental data are reported for different sample thickness and porosity, and varying heat flux and water application time. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Catalyst-Free Synthesis and Characterization of Metastable Boron Carbide NanowiresADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 24 2009Aruna Velamakanni Abstract Catalyst-free growth of boron carbide nanowires is achieved by pyrolysis of diborane and methane at 650,750,°C and around 500 mTorr in a quartz tube furnace. Electron-diffraction analysis using a novel diffraction-scanning transmission electron microscopy (D-STEM) technique indicates that the crystalline nanowires are single-crystal orthorhombic boron carbide. TEM images show that the nanowires are covered by a 1,3,nm thick amorphous layer of carbon. Elemental analysis by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) shows only boron and carbon while energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) show the presence of oxygen as well as boron and carbon. [source] Crystallization and Grain Growth Kinetics for Precipitation-Based Ceramics: A Case Study on Amorphous Ceria Thin Films from Spray PyrolysisADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2009Jennifer L. M. Rupp Abstract The introductory part reviews the impact of thin film fabrication, precipitation versus vacuum-based methods, on the initial defect state of the material and microstructure evolution to amorphous, biphasic amorphous-nanocrystalline, and fully nanocrystalline metal oxides. In this study, general rules for the kinetics of nucleation, crystallization, and grain growth of a pure single-phase metal oxide thin film made by a precipitation-based technique from a precursor with one single organic solvent are discussed. For this a complete case study on the isothermal and non-isothermal microstructure evolution of dense amorphous ceria thin films fabricated by spray pyrolysis is conducted. A general model is established and comparison of these thin film microstructure evolution to kinetics of classical glass-ceramics or metallic glasses is presented. Knowledge on thermal microstructure evolution of originally amorphous precipitation-based metal oxide thin films allows for their introduction and distinctive microstructure engineering in devices-based on microelectromechanical (MEMS) technology such as solar cells, capacitors, sensors, micro-solid oxide fuel cells, or oxygen separation membranes on Si-chips. [source] Arrays of Inorganic Nanodots and Nanowires Using Nanotemplates Based on Switchable Block Copolymer Supramolecular AssembliesADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2009Bhanu Nandan Abstract Here, a novel and simple route to fabricate highly dense arrays of palladium nanodots and nanowires with sub-30,nm periodicity using nanoporous templates fabricated from supramolecular assemblies of a block copolymer, polystyrene- block -poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PS- b -P4VP) and a low molecular weight additive, 2-(4,-hydroxybenzeneazo) benzoic acid (HABA) is demonstrated. The palladium nanoparticles, which are directly deposited in the nanoporous templates from an aqueous solution, selectively migrate in the pores mainly due to their preferential attraction to the P4VP block covering the pore wall. The polymer template is then removed by oxygen plasma etching or pyrolysis in air resulting in palladium nanostructures whose large scale morphology mirrors that of the original template. The method adopted in this work is general and versatile so that it could easily be extended for patterning a variety of metallic materials into dot and wire arrays. [source] Restorable Type Conversion of Carbon Nanotube Transistor Using Pyrolytically Controlled Antioxidizing Photosynthesis CoenzymeADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 16 2009Bo Ram Kang Abstract Here, a pyrolytically controlled antioxidizing photosynthesis coenzyme, , -Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced dipotassium salt (NADH) for a stable n-type dopant for carbon nanotube (CNT) transistors is proposed. A strong electron transfer from NADH, mainly nicotinamide, to CNTs takes place during pyrolysis so that not only the type conversion from p-type to n-type is realized with 100% of reproducibility but also the on/off ratio of the transistor is significantly improved by increasing on-current and/or decreasing off-current. The device was stable up to a few months with negligible current changes under ambient conditions. The n-type characteristics were completely recovered to an initial doping level after reheat treatment of the device. [source] Silicon Inverse-Opal-Based Macroporous Materials as Negative Electrodes for Lithium Ion BatteriesADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 12 2009Alexei Esmanski Abstract Several types of silicon-based inverse-opal films are synthesized, characterized by a range of experimental techniques, and studied in terms of electrochemical performance. Amorphous silicon inverse opals are fabricated via chemical vapor deposition. Galvanostatic cycling demonstrates that these materials possess high capacities and reasonable capacity retentions. Amorphous silicon inverse opals perform unsatisfactorily at high rates due to the low conductivity of silicon. The conductivity of silicon inverse opals can be improved by their crystallization. Nanocrystalline silicon inverse opals demonstrate much better rate capabilities but the capacities fade to zero after several cycles. Silicon,carbon composite inverse-opal materials are synthesized by depositing a thin layer of carbon via pyrolysis of a sucrose-based precursor onto the silicon inverse opals. The amount of carbon deposited proves to be insufficient to stabilize the structures and silicon,carbon composites demonstrate unsatisfactory electrochemical behavior. Carbon inverse opals are coated with amorphous silicon producing another type of macroporous composite. These electrodes demonstrate significant improvement both in capacity retentions and in rate capabilities. The inner carbon matrix not only increases the material conductivity but also results in lower silicon pulverization during cycling. [source] Generation of Monodisperse Inorganic,Organic Janus Microspheres in a Microfluidic DeviceADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 10 2009Naveen Prasad Abstract This study presents a simple synthetic approach for the in situ preparation of monodisperse hybrid Janus microspheres (HJM) having organic and inorganic parts in a PDMS-based microfluidic device. Based on the mechanism of shear-force-driven break-off, merged droplets of two photocurable oligomer solutions having distinctive properties are generated into an immiscible continuous phase. Functionalized perfluoropolyether (PFPE) as the organic phase and hydrolytic allylhydridopolycarbosilane (AHPCS) as the inorganic phase are used for the generation in aqueous medium of HJM with well-defined morphology and high monodispersity (average diameter of 162,µm and a 3.5% coefficient of variation). The size and shape of the HJM is controlled by varying the flow rate of the disperse and continuous phases. The HJM have two distinctive regions: a hydrophobic hemisphere (PFPE) having a smooth surface and a relatively hydrophilic region (AHPCS) with a rough, porous surface. In addition, pyrolysis and subsequent oxidation of these HJM convert them into SiC-based ceramic hemispheres through the removal of the organic portion and etching off the silica shell. The selective incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles into the inorganic part shows the feasibility of the forced assembly of HJM in an applied magnetic field. [source] Tuning Carbon Materials for Supercapacitors by Direct Pyrolysis of SeaweedsADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 7 2009Encarnación Raymundo-Piñero Abstract The sea provides a large variety of seaweeds that, because of their chemical composition, are fantastic precursors of nanotextured carbons. The carbons are obtained by the simple pyrolysis of the seaweeds under a nitrogen atmosphere between 600 and 900,°C, followed by rinsing the product in slightly acidic water. Depending on the origin of the seaweed and on the pyrolysis conditions, the synthesis may be oriented to give an oxygen-enriched carbon or to give a tuned micro/mesoporous carbon. The samples with a rich oxygenated surface functionality are excellent as supercapacitor electrodes in an aqueous medium whereas the perfectly tuned porous carbons are directly applicable for organic media. In both cases, the specific surface area of the attained carbons does not exceed 1300 m2 g,1, which results in high-density materials. As a consequence, the volumetric capacitance is very high, making these materials more interesting than activated carbons from the point of view of developing small and compact electric power sources. Such versatile carbons, obtained by a simple, ecological, and cheap process, could be well used for environment remediation such as water and air treatment. [source] Luminescent Colloidal Dispersion of Silicon Quantum Dots from Microwave Plasma Synthesis: Exploring the Photoluminescence Behavior Across the Visible SpectrumADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 5 2009Anoop Gupta Abstract Aiming for a more practical route to highly stable visible photoluminescence (PL) from silicon, a novel approach to produce luminescent silicon nanoparticles (Si-NPs) is developed. Single crystalline Si-NPs are synthesized by pyrolysis of silane (SiH4) in a microwave plasma reactor at very high production rates (0.1,10,g,h,1). The emission wavelength of the Si-NPs is controlled by etching them in a mixture of hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid. Emission across the entire visible spectrum is obtained by varying the etching time. It is observed that the air oxidation of the etched Si-NPs profoundly affects their optical properties, and causes their emission to blue-shift and diminish in intensity with time. Modification of the silicon surface by UV-induced hydrosilylation also causes a shift in the spectrum. The nature of the shift (red/blue) is dependent on the emission wavelength of the etched Si-NPs. In addition, the amount of shift depends on the type of organic ligand on the silicon surface and the UV exposure time. The surface modification of Si-NPs with different alkenes results in highly stable PL and allows their dispersion in a variety of organic solvents. This method of producing macroscopic quantities of Si-NPs with very high PL stability opens new avenues to applications of silicon quantum dots in optoelectronic and biological fields, and paves the way towards their commercialization. [source] Flame-Synthesized Copper Dimers: Flame-Synthesized Ceria-Supported Copper Dimers for Preferential Oxidation of CO (Adv. Funct.ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 3 2009Mater. On page 369, R. Kydd et al. describe the creation of highly dispersed copper dimers (violet areas) on Ceria nanoparticles (green areas) via rapid flame-spray pyrolysis. These as-prepared copper dimers, in synergism with the oxygen vacancies in ceria, exhibit favourable electronic and catalytic interactions with incident CO molecules. Consequently, CO can be preferentially oxidised in H2 streams at low temperatures. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||