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Artículos SCI



2010


Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma - Materiales Ópticos Multifuncionales

Conformal Growth of Organic Luminescent Planar Defects within Artificial Opals

Aparicio, FJ; Lozano, G; Blaszczyk-Lezak, I; Barranco, A; Miguez, H
Chemistry of Materials, 22 (2010) 379-385
DOI: 10.1021/cm902819x

Abstract

Herein, we present the result of combining, for the first time, the techniques of colloidal self-assembly and plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition to create a novel, high-quality, purely Organic active photonic crystal structure of controlled optical properties. We show a fast. reliable, and accurate procedure to introduce two-dimensional luminescent organic defect layers within artificial polystyrene opals via a versatile room-temperature remote plasma deposition process. This method is gentle enough to allow highly coil formal growth on polystyrene microspheres without altering their morphology or the ordered arrangement that they form. The luminescent organic layer behaves both as all optical dopant, causing the opening of transmission windows within the forbidden frequency interval of the lattice, and as an optically active material, whose emission call be tailored by the photonic environment.


Enero, 2010 | DOI: 10.1021/cm902819x

Química de Superficies y Catálisis

Supported nickel catalysts with a controlled molecular architecture for the catalytic reformation of methane

Hufschmidt, D; Bobadilla, LF; Romero-Sarria, F; Centeno, MA; Odriozola, JA; Montes, M; Falabella, E
Catalysis Today, 149 (2010) 394-400
DOI: 10.1016/j.cattod.2009.06.002

Abstract

In this work a lanthanum and nickel catalyst having perovskite structure, grown on a gamma-alumina carrier, is being presented. The structure of the catalyst was confirmed by XRD. The behaviour of this material under the conditions of steam reforming has been studied and the influence of the temperature, the space velocity and the steam/carbon ratio on the conversion of methane and the product distribution in the process was determined. In all cases at higher temperatures conversions of more than 90% and high selectivities were achieved. The experiments to determine the stability of the catalyst demonstrated that no deactivation in experimental runs of more than 17h occurred. Additionally a study of the catalyst after the reaction showed that only lowly structured carbonaceous species were formed on the catalyst surface, which is not expected to inhibit strongly the initial catalytic activity.


Enero, 2010 | DOI: 10.1016/j.cattod.2009.06.002

Materiales y Procesos Catalíticos de Interés Ambiental y Energético

Chemical and electronic characterization of cobalt in a lanthanum perovskite. Effects of strontium substitution

Hueso, JL; Holgado, JP; Pereniguez, R; Mun, S; Salmeron, M; Caballero, A
Journal of Solid State Chemistry, 183 (2010) 27-32
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2009.10.008

Abstract

Two different cobaltites, LaCoO3 and La0.5Sr0.5CoO3-delta, have been prepared and characterized by means of high energy Co K-edge and low energy O K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Even though half of the La(III) is substituted by Sr(II), little or no changes call be detected in the formal oxidation state of cobalt atoms. The presence of strontium cations induces two main effects in the chemical and electronic state of the perovskite. The charge balance with Sr(II) species is reached by the formation of oxygen vacancies throughout the network, which explains the well-known increase in the reactivity of this Substituted perovskite. O K-edge XAS experiments show that the Sr(II) species induce the transitions of d electrons of cobalt cations from low to high Spill Configuration. We propose that this change in Spill Multiplicity is induced by two cooperative effects: the oxygen vacancies. creating five coordinated cobalt atoms, and the bigger size of Sr(II) cations, aligning the Co-O-Co atoms, and favoring the overlapping of pi-symmetry cobalt and oxygen orbitals, reducing the splitting energy of e(g) and t(2g) levels.


Enero, 2010 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2009.10.008



2009


Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Metal carbide/amorphous C-based nanocomposite coatings for tribological applications

Sanchez-Lopez, JC; Martinez-Martinez, D; Abad, MD; Fernandez, A
Surface and Coatings Technology, 204 (2009) 947-954
DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.05.038

Abstract

This paper tries to assess the factors governing the tribological behaviour of different nanocomposites films composed by metallic carbides (MeC) mixed with amorphous carbon (a-C). Different series of MeC/a-C coatings (with Me: Ti(B) and W) were prepared by magnetron sputtering technique varying the power applied to the graphite target in order to tailor the carbon content into the films. A deep investigation of the chemical and structural features at the nano-scale is carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and Raman spectroscopy techniques in order to establish correlations with the tribological properties measured by a pin-on-disk tribometer in ambient air. The analysis of the counterfaces by Raman confocal microscopy after the friction tests is used to follow the chemical phenomena occurring at the contact area responsible of the observed friction behaviour. The importance of determining the fraction of C atoms in the amorphous phase (xa-C) is highlighted as a key-parameter to control the tribological properties. A comparative analysis of the mechanical and tribological performance of the three systems (TiC/a-C, WC/a-C, TiBC/a-C) is done and conclusions are obtained concerning the friction and wear mechanism involved.


Diciembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.05.038

Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Thermogravimetric and in situ SEM characterisation of the oxidation phenomena of protective nanocomposite nitride films deposited on steel

Mege-Revil, A; Steyer, P; Thollet, G; Chiriac, R; Sigala, C; Sanchez-Lopez, JC; Esnouf, C
Surface and Interface Analysis, 204 (2009) 893-901
DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.06.040

Abstract

The lifetime of TiN coatings is often limited by its poor resistance to high temperatures. For an optimized addition of silicon, both mechanical and physico-chemical properties are enhanced, owing to the formation of a nanocomposite structure. In this study, pure Ti and TiSi (80/20) targets were arc-evaporated to produce hard, single-layered coatings. Magnetron sputtered SiNx films were also synthesized for a comparison purpose. The nanocomposite structure was determined by XRD and TEM, and its efficiency regarding the mechanical properties was confirmed by nanohardness measurements. Through thermogravimetric experiments it is shown that in isothermal and dynamic conditions, the chemical stability inherent to SiNx controls the oxidation behaviour of TiSiN. However, in thermal cycling conditions TiSiN withstand efficiently temperature variations whereas SiNx does not. The aim of this study is to understand the role of SiNx on the oxidation of the TiSiN nanocomposite film. For this purpose, an in situ approach of the oxidation phenomena is detailed, based on experiments performed in an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) operating in controlled pressure mode up to 1000 °C. ESEM, used in real-time oxidative conditions, has been proved to be an efficient tool to characterise the mechanism of degradation. The successive steps of the attack throughout the in situ oxidation process are as follow: oxidation first initiates at coating defects (open pores and droplets), then spreads to the whole surface. The whole flaking of the film that is observed at the microscopic scale during the cooling step proves the poor thermal fatigue resistance of SiNx. This strong propensity to cracking is explained on the basis of thermo-mechanical considerations. The nanocomposite structure thus combines the chemical stability inherent to the SiNx matrix with the beneficial thermo-mechanical properties associated to TiN nanograins.


Diciembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.06.040

Characterization of illuminated manuscripts by laboratory-made portable XRD and micro-XRD systems

Duran, A; Perez-Rodriguez, JL; Espejo, T; Franquelo, ML; Castaing, J; Walter, P
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 395 (2009) 1997-2004
DOI: 10.1007/s00216-009-2992-5

Abstract

Illuminated Arabic manuscripts have been studied, employing two laboratory-made X-ray diffraction (XRD) systems developed recently in the C2RMF laboratory. The validity of the µ-XRD and XRD portable systems for the study of this type of artworks has been demonstrated. A common observation in all the analyses is the presence of calcite and rutile; also, hematite, goethite, cinnabar, brass, anatase and barite were detected in the various colours. Differences between the results obtained by both techniques due to acquisition mode are discussed. In addition, other techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and micro-Raman were used for the complete characterization of the manuscripts.


Diciembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1007/s00216-009-2992-5

Study of metallic components of historical organ pipes using synchrotron radiation X-ray microfluorescence imaging and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction

Herrera, LK; Justo, A; Munoz-Paez, A; Sans, JA; Martinez-Criado, G
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 395 (2009) 1969-1975
DOI: 10.1007/s00216-009-3075-3

Abstract

A comparative study of the composition and microstructure of two different brass alloys from reed pipes, one from a Spanish baroque organ and the other from a modern one, was carried out. This study allowed us to determine the procedure followed to produce the brass used to make ancient reed pipes. Moreover the distribution and correlation of lead and other trace elements present into the main component of the brass, the copper and zinc phases, of the historical tongues and shallots were established. This chemical composition was compared with that of a tongue from a twentieth-century organ. The whole study was accomplished using a combination of laboratory and synchrotron radiation techniques. X-ray fluorescence was the technique used to obtain elemental and chemical imaging of the main phases and the trace elements at a sub-micrometer scale.


Diciembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1007/s00216-009-3075-3

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

Reversibility of La and Lu sorption onto smectites: Implications for the design of engineered barriers in deep geological repositories

Galunin, E; Alba, MD; Aviles, MA; Santos, MJ; Vidal, M
Journal of Hazardous Materials, 172 (2009) 1198-1205
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2009.07.124

Abstract

The sorption reversibility of La and Lu (considered as actinide analogues) onto a set of smectites (bentonite FEBEX; hectorite, HEC; MX80; saponite, SAP; Otay montmorillonite, SCa-3; and Texas montmorillonite, STx-1) was studied to estimate actinide retention by smectites that are candidates for use as engineered barriers in deep geological repositories. The sorption distribution coefficients (K d) and the reversibility parameters (desorption distribution coefficients (K d,des), adjusted distribution coefficients (K d,adj), and desorption rates (R des)) were determined from batch tests in two ionic media: deionized water and Ca 0.02 mol L -1. The latter simulates possible conditions due to the presence of concrete leachates. The results varied greatly depending on the ionic medium, the lanthanide concentration and the clay structure. The high values of K d,des obtained (up to 1.1 × 10 5 and 9.2 × 10 4 L kg -1 for La and Lu in water, and 2.8 × 10 4 and 4.1 × 10 4 L kg -1 for La and Lu in the Ca medium) indicate the suitability of the tested smectites for lanthanide (and therefore, actinide) retention. Based on all the data, SCa-3, HEC and FEBEX clays are considered the best choices for water environments, whereas in Ca environments the suitable clays depended on the lanthanide considered.


Diciembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2009.07.124

Characterization of sepiolite-gel-based formulations for controlled release of pesticides

Maqueda, C; Partal, P; Villaverde, J; Perez-Rodriguez, JL
Applied Clay Science, 46 (2009) 289-295
DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2009.08.019

Abstract

Novel controlled release formulations (CRFs) were developed for reducing leaching of herbicides and contamination of groundwater. The herbicide metribuzin (MTB) was entrapped within a sepiolite-gel matrix using a novel and ultrasound-based technique. Different sepiolite/herbicide matrices (either as a gel or as a powder after freeze-drying) were prepared with pesticide loading between 28.6 and 9.1%. The release of MTB from the control released formulations into water was retarded when compared with commercial formulation (CF), except in the case of the sepiolite-gel-based formulations with lower amounts of sepiolite. The rheological properties and microstructure of these formulations were examined in detail. FTIR spectra showed that there was no evidence of herbicide inside the sepiolite tunnels. The SEM micrograph of the sepiolite-gel-based formulations showed the fibrous morphology typical of sepiolite and no separate particles of MTB were found. However, the chemical analysis by EDX confirmed the presence of S, N, and C, which were attributed to MTB, together with the fibers of sepiolite. Rheological characterization indicated that samples containing MTB develops a microstructure, which is irrespective of concentration above 1 mass % sepiolite. There was a good agreement between the microstructure characteristics and MTB release behavior.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2009.08.019

Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma

Hybrid catalytic-DBD plasma reactor for the production of hydrogen and preferential CO oxidation (CO-PROX) at reduced temperatures

Rico, VJ; Hueso, JL; Cotrino, J; Gallardo, V; Sarmiento, B; Brey, JJ; Gonzalez-Elipe, AR
Chemical Communications, 41 (2009) 6192-6194
DOI: 10.1039/b909488a

Abstract

Dielectric Barrier Discharges (DBD) operated at atmospheric pressure and working at reduced temperatures (T < 115 °C) and a copper–manganese oxide catalyst are combined for the direct decomposition and the steam reforming of methanol (SRM) for hydrogen production and for the preferential oxidation of CO (CO-PROX)


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1039/b909488a

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

Synthesis and characterization of a plant cutin mimetic polymer

Heredia-Guerrero, JA; Heredia, A; Garcia-Segura, R; Benitez, JJ
Polymer, 50 (2009) 5633-5637
DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2009.10.018

Abstract

A mimetic polymer of plant cutin have been synthesized from 9,10,16-trihydroxyhexadecanoic (aleuritic) acid through a low temperature polycondensation reaction. Reaction conditions (solvent, catalyst, temperature, etc…) were studied and modified to optimize yield and product characteristics. The resulting polyaleurate polymer was characterized by Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and solid state 13C-Cross Polarization/Magic Angle Spinning Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (13C-CP/MAS NMR). Mechanical and hydrodynamic properties were also investigated. In the average, the product obtained is physically and chemically very similar to plant cutin (a hydrophobic polyester). However, a more detailed analysis of results reveals that polyaleurate framework is more rigid than natural cutin and with additional larger short-range ordered domains. Also, the synthetic polymer displays slightly different mechanical properties with respect to natural cutin. Additional hydrogen bonding within the framework of polyaleurate is considered to be responsible for such experimental observations.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2009.10.018

Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Bonding Structure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-B-C Coatings

Abad, MD; Caceres, D; Pogozhev, YS; Shtansky, DV; Sanchez-Lopez, JC
Plasma Processes and Polymers, 6 (2009) S107-S112
DOI: 10.1002/ppap.200930403

Abstract

Nanocomposite coatings combining hard phases (TiB2, TiC) with an amorphous carbon (a-C) were developed to provide a good compromise between mechanical and tribological properties for M2 steels used in a wide variety of applications such as cutting tools, bearings and gear mechanisms. A combined d.c.-pulsed and r.f.-magnetron deposition process was used to deposit nanocomposite TiBC/a-C coatings with a variable content of carbon matrix phase. Chemical composition was determined by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the coatings microstructure is rather amorphous with small nanocrystals of TiC and/or TiB2 (not possible to differentiate by diffraction techniques). Investigation of the chemical bonding environment by XPS and EELS allows us to confirm the presence of titanium-boron and titanium-carbon bonds together with free a-C. Coatings exhibited hardness values (H) of 25–29 GPa, effective Young modulus (E*) of 310–350 GPa, H/E* ratios over 0.080 and resistance to plastic deformation (H3/E*2) from 0.15 to 0.20. Tribological properties of the coatings were characterized by a pin-on-disk tribometer using steel and WC balls at high contact stresses (1.1 and 1.4 GPa respectively). Friction coefficients were reduced from 0.6 to 0.2 by increasing the content of free carbon without reduction of the hardness (around 28 GPa), by self-lubricant effects. The tribo-mechanical data are revised according to the phase composition and chemical bonding inside the nanocomposites.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1002/ppap.200930403

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

The hydrothermal conversion of kaolinite to kalsilite: Influence of time, temperature, and pH

Becerro, AI; Escudero, A; Mantovani, M
American Mineralogist, 94 (2009) 11-12
DOI: 10.2138/am.2009.3284

Abstract

Kalsilite (the low-temperature form of KAlSiO4) is used as the precursor of leucite, an important component in porcelain-fused-to-metal and ceramic-restoration systems, and it has also been proposed as a high-thermal expansion ceramic for bonding to metals. The present study reports the hydrothermal synthesis and characterization of pure kalsilite from kaolinite in subcritical conditions, as well as the characterization of the intermediate products by means of XRD, 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR, IR, SEM, and TEM. Effects of time, temperature, and pH on the reaction products are analyzed. The experimental data indicate that pure kalsilite is obtained after hydrothermal treatment of kaolinite at 300 °C for 12 h in 0.5 M KOH solution. Longer reaction times increase the crystallinity of the structure, whereas lower reaction times give rise to the metastable ABW-type KAlSiO4 polymorph. Lower temperatures are not sufficient to produce kalsilite, but zeolite W is obtained instead as the unique reaction product. Finally, the pH of the aqueous solution in contact with kaolinite is an important parameter for the synthesis of kalsilite, which must be ≥13.70.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.2138/am.2009.3284

Química de Superficies y Catálisis

Self-Assembling of Er2O3-TiO2 Mixed Oxide Nanoplatelets by a Template-Free Solvothermal Route

Julian-Lopez, B; Martos, M; Ulldemolins, N; Odriozola, JA; Cordoncillo, E; Escribano, P
Chemistry-A European Journal, 15 (2009) 12426-12434
DOI: 10.1002/chem.200901423

Abstract

An easy solvothermal route has been developed to synthesize the first mesoporous Er2O3-TiO2 mixed oxide spherical particles composed of crystalline nanoplatelets, with high surface area and narrow pore size distribution. This synthetic strategy allows the preparation of materials at low temperature with interesting textural properties without the use of surfactants, as well as the control of particle size and shape. TEM and Raman analysis confirm the formation of nanocrystalline Er2O 3-TiO2 mixed oxide. Mesoscopic ordered porosity is reached through the thermal decomposition of organic moieties during the synthetic process, thus leading to a template-free methodology that can be extended to other nanostructured materials. High specific surface areas (up to 313 m 2g-1) and narrow pore size distributions are achieved in comparison to the micrometric material synthesized by the traditional sol-gel route. This study opens new perspectives in the development, by solvothermal methodologies, of multifunctional materials for advanced applications by improving the classical pyrochlore properties (magnetization, heat capacity, catalysis, conductivity, etc.). In particular, since catalytic reactions take place on the surface of catalysts, the high surface area of these materials makes them promising candidates for catalysts. Furthermore, their spherical morphology makes them appropriate for advanced technologies in, for instance, ceramic inkjet printers.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1002/chem.200901423

Advanced combined application of μ-X-ray diffraction/μ-X-ray fluorescence with conventional techniques for the identification of pictorial materials from Baroque Andalusia paintings

Herrera, LK; Montalbani, S; Chiavari, G; Cotte, M; Sole, VA; Bueno, J; Duran, A; Justo, A; Perez-Rodriguez, JL
Talanta, 80 (2009) 71-83
DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2009.06.032

Abstract

The process of investigating paintings includes the identification of materials to solve technical and historical art questions, to aid in the deduction of the original appearance, and in the establishment of the chemical and physical conditions for adequate restoration and conservation. In particular, we have focused on the identification of several samples taken from six famous canvases painted by Pedro Atanasio Bocanegra, who created a very special collection depicting the life of San Ignacio, which is located in the church of San Justo y Pastor of Granada, Spain. The characterization of the inorganic and organic compounds of the textiles, preparation layers, and pictorial layers have been carried out using an XRD diffractometer, SEM observations, EDX spectrometry, FT-IR spectrometry (both in reflection and transmission mode), pyrolysis/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and synchrotron-based μ-X-ray techniques. In this work, the advantages over conventional X-ray diffraction of using combined synchrotron-based μ-X-ray diffraction and μ-X-ray fluorescence in the identification of multi-layer paintings is demonstrated.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2009.06.032

Química de Superficies y Catálisis

Methane steam reforming in a microchannel reactor for GTL intensification: A computational fluid dynamics simulation study

Arzamendia, G; Dieguez, PM; Montes, M; Odriozola, JA; Sousa-Aguiar, EF; Gandia, LM
Chemical Engineering Journal, 154 (2009) 168-173
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2009.01.035

Abstract

The integration of the steam reforming and combustion of methane in a catalytic microchannel reactor has been simulated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Two models including 4 or 20 square microchannels of 20 mm of length and 0.7 mm of side have been developed. It has been assumed that a thin and homogeneous layer of an appropriate catalyst has been uniformly deposited onto the channels walls. The kinetics of the steam reforming of methane (SRM), water-gas shift (WGS) and methane combustion in air have been incorporated into the models. This has allowed simulating the effect of the gas streams space velocities, catalyst load, steam-to-carbon (S/C) ratio and flow arrangement on the microreformer performance. The results obtained illustrate the potential of microreactors for process intensification: complete combustion of methane is achieved at gas hourly space velocities (GHSV) as high as 130,000 h−1. As concerns the SRM, methane conversions above 97% can be obtained at high GHSV of 30,000 h−1 and temperatures of 900–950 °C. Under these conditions selectivity for syngas is controlled by the WGS equilibrium.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2009.01.035

Química de Superficies y Catálisis

Ionic liquid templated TiO2 nanoparticles as a support in gold environmental catalysis

Avellaneda, RS; Ivanova, S; Sanz, O; Romero-Sarria, F; Centeno, MA; Odriozola, JA
Applied Catalysis B-Environmental, 93 (2009) 140-148
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.09.023

Abstract

This work presents the synthesis of a nanostructured titania support and its subsequent utilization for the gold particles deposition and application in the reaction of the CO oxidation. A functionalized ionic liquid has been used as a templating agent for the titanium oxide synthesis resulting in a high specific surface nanostructured titania anatase. The as prepared support was then used for gold nanoparticles deposition without ionic liquid removal in order to study the possible role of the latter in the stabilization of the gold particles. The presence of ionic liquid in the catalysts results in an unusual catalytic behaviour—strong dependence on the presence of CO and changed kinetics and rate of oxidation.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.09.023

Reactividad de Sólidos

Combined kinetic analysis of thermal degradation of polymeric materials under any thermal pathway

Sanchez-Jimenez, PE; Perez-Maqueda, LA; Perejon, A; Criado, JM
Polymer Degradation and Stability, 94 (2009) 2079-2085
DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2009.07.006

Abstract

Combined kinetic analysis has been applied for the first time to the thermal degradation of polymeric materials. The combined kinetic analysis allows the determination of the kinetic parameters from the simultaneous analysis of a set of experimental curves recorded under any thermal schedule. The method does not make any assumptions about the kinetic model or activation energy and allows analysis even when the process does not follow one of the ideal kinetic models already proposed in the literature. In the present paper the kinetics of the thermal degradation of both polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyethylene (PE) have been analysed. It has been concluded, without previous assumptions on the kinetic model, that the thermal degradation of PTFE obeys a first order kinetic law, while the thermal degradation of PE follows a diffusion-controlled kinetic model.


Noviembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2009.07.006

Materiales Ópticos Multifuncionales

Optical Analysis of the Fine Crystalline Structure of Artificial Opal Films

Lozano, G; Dorado, LA; Schinca, D; Depine, RA; Miguez, H
Langmuir, 25 (2009) 12860-12864
DOI: 10.1021/la903077r

Abstract

Herein, we present a detailed analysis of the structure of artificial opal films. We demonstrate that, rather than the generally assumed face centered cubic lattice of spheres, opal films are better approximated by rhombohedral assemblies of distorted colloids. Detailed analysis of the optical response in a very wide spectral range (0.4 ≤ a/λ ≤ 2, where a is the conventional lattice constant), as well as at perpendicular and off-normal directions, unambiguously shows that the interparticle distance coincides very approximately with the expected diameter only along directions contained in the same close-packed plane but differs significantly in directions oblique to the [111] one. A full description of the real and reciprocal lattices of actual opal films is provided, as well as of the photonic band structure of the proposed arrangement. The implications of this distortion in the optical response of the lattice are discussed.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1021/la903077r

Hg/Sn amalgam degradation of ancient glass mirrors

Herrera, LK; Duran, A; Franquelo, ML; Justo, A; Perez-Rodriguez, JL
Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids, 355 (2009) 1980-1983
DOI: 10.1016/j.jnoncrysol.2008.11.045

Abstract

Tin amalgam, which is obtained by pouring mercury onto a sheet of tin, has been used in the production of reflective coatings for mirrors. The corrosion processes of the amalgam layer were investigated in several mirrors from historical buildings located in southern Spain using SEM/EDS, XPS, and GID. Mercury and Sn4+ are present as spheres on the amalgam surface due to the evaporation process (∼5 nm). The profile shows a mixture of Sn2+ and Sn4+. The original amalgam was composed of a binary alloy of tin and mercury (Hg0.1Sn0.9) and metallic tin. In this paper the tin oxidation mechanism of the amalgam is described. Liquid mercury is volatile and evaporates slowly, leaving fine tin particles that oxidize easily, forming tin monoxide (SnO) and tin dioxide (SnO2). The mercury-rich phase accelerates the corrosion of the tin-rich phase.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jnoncrysol.2008.11.045

Materiales Ópticos Multifuncionales

Mesostructured Thin Films as Responsive Optical Coatings of Photonic Crystals

Hidalgo, N; Calvo, ME; Miguez, H
Small, 5 (2009) 2309-2315
DOI: 10.1002/smll.200900411

Abstract

A synthetic route is presented to attain high-optical-quality multilayered structures that residtfront coupling ordered n7esoporous tilaniuni oxide thin films to the surface of a dense one-dimensional photonic crystal. Such architectures present spectrally well-defined photon resonant modes localized in the outer coating that finely respond to physicochemically induced modifications of its pore volume. The potential of these porous coatings in detection of environmental changes through variations of the photonic response of the ensemble is demonstrated by performing isothermal optical reflectance measurements under controlled vapor-pressure conditions.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1002/smll.200900411

Química de Superficies y Catálisis - Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Manganese and iron oxides as combustion catalysts of volatile organic compounds

Duran, FG; Barbero, BP; Cadus, LE; Rojas, C; Centeno, MA; Odriozola, JA
Applied Catalysis B-Environmental, 92 (2009) 194-201
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.07.010

Abstract

FeMn mixed oxides were prepared by the citrate method with Fe:Mn atomic ratio equal to 1:1, 1:3 and 3:1. The sample was characterized by means of specific surface area measurements, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), temperature programmed desorption of oxygen (O2-DTP), temperature programmed reduction (TPR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), transmission electron microscopy (TEM and SAED) and high resolution TEM (HREM). The characterization results demonstrated the formation of a Mn2O3–Fe2O3 solid solution. The catalytic performance in ethanol, ethyl acetate and toluene total oxidation on these samples was better than on Fe2O3 and Mn2O3 pure oxides.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.07.010

Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Vibrational spectroscopy characterization of magnetron sputtered silicon oxide and silicon oxynitride films

Godinho, V; Denisov, VN; Mavrin, BN; Novikova, NN; Vinogradov, EA; Yakovlev, VA; Fernandez-Ramos, C; de Haro, MCJ; Fernandez, A
Applied Surface Science
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2009.07.101

Abstract

Vibrational (infrared and Raman) spectroscopy has been used to characterize SiOxNy and SiOx films prepared by magnetron sputtering on steel and silicon substrates. Interference bands in the infrared reflectivity measurements provided the film thickness and the dielectric function of the films. Vibrational modes bands were obtained both from infrared and Raman spectra providing useful information on the bonding structure and the microstructure (formation of nano-voids in some coatings) for these amorphous (or nanocrystalline) coatings. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis have also been carried out to determine the composition and texture of the films, and to correlate these data with the vibrational spectroscopy studies. The angular dependence of the reflectivity spectra provides the dispersion of vibrational and interference polaritons modes, what allows to separate these two types of bands especially in the frequency regions where overlaps/resonances occurred. Finally the attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared measurements have been also carried out demonstrating the feasibility and high sensitivity of the technique. Comparison of the spectra of the SiOxNy films prepared in various conditions demonstrates how films can be prepared from pure silicon oxide to silicon oxynitride with reduced oxygen content.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2009.07.101

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

Hydrothermal Synthesis of Kalsilite: A Simple and Economical Method

Becerro, AI; Mantovani, M; Escudero, A
Journal of the American Ceramic Society, 92 (2009) 2204-2206
DOI: 10.1111/j.1551-2916.2009.03232.x

Abstract

This study reports a simple method to synthesize pure kalsilite (KAlSiO4) using readily available precursors, kaolinite and KOH solution, after only 12 h of hydrothermal treatment in mild conditions. A structural refinement has been carried out using the Rietveld method to obtain unit cell parameters, and the 29Si and 27Al magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectra have shown the purity and complete Si/Al ordering of the kalsilite structure obtained. Finally, the morphology of the particles has been analyzed by scanning electron microscopy.


Octubre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1111/j.1551-2916.2009.03232.x

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

Rare-earth disilicate formation under Deep Geological Repository approach conditions

Alba, MD; Chain, P; Orta, MM
Applied Clay Science, 46 (2009) 63-68
DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2009.07.012

Abstract

The Deep Geological Repository (DGR) concept involves the placement of long-lived radioactive waste in rooms excavated deep. The major responsibility of the disposal safety falls on the Engineered Barrier System (EBS). The main constituent of EBS is bentonite that prevents the release of radiactive nuclei by physical and chemical mechanisms. The physical mechanism is expected to fault with the weathering of the bentonite while the chemical mechanisms have been only proved at 300 °C. It is the aim of this paper to explore the feasibility of the chemical mechanism at temperatures closer to the DGP conditions and to shed light on the mechanism of transformation of the argillaceous materials of the EBS in rare-earth disilicate phases. Saponite was submitted to hydrothermal reaction at 175 °C and 150 °C with different solutions of REE3+ cations (REE = Sc, Lu, Y, Sm, Nd and La). The products were analyzed by XRD, NMR and electron microscopy. At conditions close to the DGP, the saponite was able to form rare-earth silicates. The formation of the disilicate phase, as final product, needs a set of stages and oxyorthosilicate as precursor.


Septiembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2009.07.012

Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma

Formation of Nitrogen Functional Groups on Plasma Treated DLC

Lopez-Santos, C; Yubero, F; Cotrino, J; Contreras, L; Barranco, A; Gonzalez-Elipe, AR
Plasma Processes and Polymers, 6 (2009) 555-565
DOI: 10.1002/ppap.200900019

Abstract

Diamond like carbon (DLC) thin films have been exposed to different nitrogen containing plasmas. A dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure and a microwave discharge (MW) at low pressure using N2 and mixtures Ar + NH3 have been compared. Optical Emission and X-ray Photoelectron spectroscopies, Atomic Force Microscopy and contact angle measurements have been used for this study. A DBD with Ar + NH3 is the most efficient method for DLC functionalization. Films treated with this plasma presented the highest concentration of amine groups as determined by derivatization with 4-chlorobenzaldehyde. All the treated samples underwent a significant aging with time. The efficiency of the different plasmas for DLC functionalization is discussed in the light of the intermediate species detected in the plasma.


Septiembre, 2009 | DOI: 10.1002/ppap.200900019

Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma

Identification of hydrogen and deuterium at the surface of water ice by reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy

Yubero, F; Tokesi, K
Applied Physics Letters, 95 (2009) 084101
DOI: 10.1063/1.3202402

Abstract

A nondestructive method to distinguish between hydrogen (H) and deuterium (D) at surfaces by reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy is presented. It is based on the analysis of the energy distributions of electrons elastically backscattered from surfaces containing H or D. We consider standard and deuterated water ices as test surfaces. The recoil energy of the backscattered electrons depends on the atomic mass of the targets, and the contributions of H, D, and O to the measured spectra can be easily separated. The results of Monte Carlo simulations corroborate the experimental findings.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1063/1.3202402

Reactividad de Sólidos

High surface area α-alumina preparation by using urban waste

Martin-Ruiz, MM; Perez-Maqueda, LA; Cordero, T; Balek, V; Subrt, J; Murafa, N; Pascual-Cosp, J
Ceramics International, 35 (2009) 2111-2117
DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2008.11.011

Abstract

A new method for preparing high surface area α-alumina from urban waste is proposed. The method consists of the precipitation of a precursor that contains bohemite mixed with a linear polymer and subsequently the thermal decomposition of the precursor by heating in nitrogen and air to 1200 °C. The resulting α-alumina consists of nanocrystals of about 100 nm aggregated into larger particles with relatively high surface area (12 m2 g−1) and a significant macropore volume of 0.545 cm3 g. Methods of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) were used to characterize microstructure of prepared materials. Results of differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetry and emanation thermal analysis characterized the thermal behaviour of α-alumina precursors.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2008.11.011

Materiales Coloidales

Synthesis by pyrolysis of aerosols and ceramic application of Cr-doped CaYAlO4 red–orange pigments

Lyubenova, TS; Carda, JB; Ocana, M
Journal of the European Ceramic Society, 29 (2009) 2193-2198
DOI: 10.1016/j.jeurceramsoc.2009.01.020

Abstract

The synthesis of red–orange Cr-doped YCaAlO4 pigments has been improved (softer thermal conditions and lower environmental impact) and optimised by using the pyrolysis of aerosols method. We also study the crystallochemical features of the Cr chromophore with special emphasis on its oxidation state which has not been yet clarified, finding that Cr(III) and Cr(IV) species are present in the octahedral and interstitial tetrahedral sites of the YCaAlO4 lattice, respectively. Finally, the applicability of this system as ceramic pigment was tested using conventional industrial glazes. A change from orange to pink shades was detected after glaze firing, which is mainly attributed to the Cr3+ to Cr4+ oxidation.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jeurceramsoc.2009.01.020

Fotocatálisis Heterogénea: Aplicaciones

Influence of sulfur on the structural, surface properties and photocatalytic activity of sulfated TiO2

Colon, G; Hidalgo, MC; Navio, JA; Kubacka, A; Fernandez-Garcia, M
Applied Catalysis B-Environmental, 90 (2009) 633-641
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.04.026

Abstract

TiO2 materials were prepared by sol–gel method and then impregnated with sulfuric acid and calcined using different temperatures and atmosphere (air and nitrogen). Systematic variation of these two experimental parameters makes possible to modulate the amount of surface sulfur from the impregnation procedure. The best photocatalyst for liquid phenol degradation was obtained after calcination at 700 °C in air, while gas toluene degradation optimum performance is obtained by calcination at 700 °C in nitrogen from 500 °C. Structural analysis of these materials by XRD, micro-Raman spectroscopy and FE-SEM shows that once calcined at 700 °C the material was a well-crystallized, high surface area anatase structure in all cases. The surface characterization by FTIR and XPS confirms the presence of a higher amount of sulfur species and acidic OH groups in samples partially calcined in nitrogen, and a low XPS O/Ti-atomic ratio with the O 1s peak shifted to higher binding energies (1.8 vs. 2 ± 0.1 and 530.4 eV vs. 529.8 eV, respectively, against the reference materials) for samples calcined at 700 °C, temperature at which most of sulfate species have been evolved. The paper presents an attempt to correlate the contribution of the observed structural defects within the anatase sub-surface layers and surface acidity to the different photoactivity behaviour exhibited for phenol liquid phase and toluene gas phase photodegradation.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2009.04.026

Materiales de Diseño para la Energía y Medioambiente

Mineralogical stability of phyllosilicates in hyperalkaline fluids: Influence of layer nature, octahedral occupation and presence of tetrahedral Al

Becerro, AI; Mantovani, M; Escudero, A
American Mineralogist, 94 (2009) 1187-1197
DOI: 10.2138/am.2009.3164

Abstract

Mineralogical changes in a set of phyllosilicates, differing in their layer nature, chemical composition, octahedral character, and Al content of the tetrahedral sheet, were analyzed after hydrothermal reaction in an alkaline solution. The composition of the alkaline solution was selected to simulate the first stage of cement degradation [NaOH-KOH-Ca(OH)2]. The reaction products have been analyzed by XRD, 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR spectroscopy, SEM/EDX, and TEM. The results indicate that the main factor influencing the stability of the clays is the occupation of the octahedral sheet such that all trioctahedral members withstand the alkaline attack, whereas most of the dioctahedral clays suffer a complete dissolution and crystallization of new phases. Second, clays with Al in the tetrahedral sheet of their layers are shown to be less stable than those with a pure Si tetrahedral sheet.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.2138/am.2009.3164

Reactividad de Sólidos - Fotocatálisis Heterogénea: Aplicaciones

Kinetics of the thermal decomposition of anhydrous cobalt nitrate by SCRT method

Ortega, A; Macias, M; Gotor, FJ
Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 98 (2009) 441-448
DOI: 10.1007/s10973-009-0322-y

Abstract

It has been shown the ability of the Sample Controlled Reaction Temperature (SCRT) method for both discriminate the kinetic law and calculate the activation energy of the reaction. This thermal decomposition is best described by a Johnson–Mehl–Avrami kinetic model (with n = 2) with an activation energy of nuclei growth which fall in the range 52–59 kJ mol−1. The process is not a single-step because the initial rate of decomposition is likely to be limited by nucleation. The results reported here constitute the first attempt to use the new SCRT method to study the kinetic of the thermal decomposition of cobalt nitrate.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1007/s10973-009-0322-y

Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma - Materiales y Procesos Catalíticos de Interés Ambiental y Energético

Near-ambient X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and kinetic approach to the mechanism of carbon monoxide oxidation over lanthanum substituted cobaltites

Hueso, JL; Martinez-Martinez, D; Caballero, A; Gonzalez-Elipe, AR; Mun, BS; Salmeron, M
Catalysis Communications, 10 (2009) 1898-1902
DOI: 10.1016/j.catcom.2009.06.022

Abstract

We have studied the oxidation of carbon monoxide over a lanthanum substituted perovskite (La0.5Sr0.5CoO3−d) catalyst prepared by spray pyrolysis. Under the assumption of a first-order kinetics mechanism for CO, it has been found that the activation energy barrier of the reaction changes from ∼80 to ∼40 kJ mol−1 at a threshold temperature of ca. 320 °C. In situ XPS near-ambient pressure (∼0.2 torr) shows that the gas phase oxygen concentration over the sample decreases sharply at ca. 300 °C. These two observations suggest that the oxidation of CO undergoes a change of mechanism at temperatures higher than 300 °C.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.catcom.2009.06.022

Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Comparative investigation of TiAlC(N), TiCrAlC(N), and CrAlC(N) coatings deposited by sputtering of МАХ-phase Ti2 − хCrхAlC targets

Shtansky, DV; Kiryukhantsev-Korneev, PV; Sheveyko, AN; Mavrin, BN; Rojas, C; Fernandez, A; Levashov, EA
Surface and Coatings Technology, 203 (2009) 3595-3609
DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.05.036

Abstract

A comparative investigation of the structure and properties of TiAlC(N), TiCrAlC(N), and CrAlC(N) coatings deposited by sputtering of МАХ-phase Ti2 − хCrхAlC targets (where x = 0, 0.5, 1.5, and 2) in an Ar atmosphere or in a gaseous mixture of Ar + N2 is presented. The coatings were characterized in terms of their structure, elemental and phase composition, hardness, elastic modulus, elastic recovery, thermal stability, friction coefficient, wear rate, corrosion, and high-temperature oxidation resistance. The structure of the coatings was studied by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. To evaluate the thermal stability and oxidation resistance, the coatings were annealed either in vacuum or in air at temperatures 600–1200 °C. The results obtained show that the TiAlCN coatings possess high hardness of 32–35 GPa, low friction coefficient against WC–Co well below 0.25, high thermal stability up to 1200 °C, and superior performance in dry milling tests against high Cr steel. Meanwhile, the coatings with high Cr content demonstrated improved oxidation resistance up to 1000 °C and superior electrochemical behavior, but their mechanical and tribological properties were deteriorated.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2009.05.036

Materiales y Procesos Catalíticos de Interés Ambiental y Energético

Reactivity of LaNi1−y Co y O3−δ Perovskite Systems in the Deep Oxidation of Toluene

Pereniguez, R; Hueso, JL; Holgado, JP; Gaillard, F; Caballero, A
Catalysis Letters, 131 (2009) 164-169
DOI: 10.1007/s10562-009-9968-0

Abstract

In the present work we have evaluated the oxidation of toluene over different lanthanum perovskites with a general composition of LaNi1−y Co y O3−δ. These catalysts, prepared by a spray pyrolysis method, have been characterised by XRD, BET and FE-SEM techniques. Additional experiments of temperature programmed desorption of O2, reduction in H2 and X-ray absorption spectroscopy were also performed in order to identify the main surface oxygen species and the reducibility of the different perovskites. The catalytic behaviour toward the oxidation of toluene (as a model for VOCs compounds) was evaluated in the range 100–600 °C, detecting a total conversion for all the samples below 400 °C and higher activities for the cobalt-containing perovskites. The catalytic behaviour of these samples is consistent with a suprafacial mechanism, with the α-type oxygen playing an active role in the oxidation reaction.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1007/s10562-009-9968-0

Materiales y Procesos Catalíticos de Interés Ambiental y Energético

Structural characteristics and morphology of SmxCe1−xO2−x/2 thin films

Hartmanova, M; Jergel, M; Mansilla, C; Holgado, JP; Zemek, J; Jurek, K; Kundracik, F
Applied Surface Science, 255 (2009) 9085-9091
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2009.06.108

Abstract

Effect of the deposition temperature (200 and 500 °C) and composition of SmxCe1−xO2−x/2 (x = 0, 10.9–15.9 mol%) thin films prepared by electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD) and Ar+ ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) combined with EB-PVD on structural characteristics and morphology/microstructure was investigated. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of the surface and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) of the bulk of the film revealed the dominant occurrence of Ce4+ oxidation state, suggesting the presence of CeO2 phase, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Ce3+ oxidation states corresponding to Ce2O3 phase were in minority. The XRD and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the polycrystalline columnar structure and a rooftop morphology of the surface. Effects of the preparation conditions (temperature, composition, IBAD) on the lattice parameter, grain size, perfection of the columnar growth and its impact on the surface morphology are analyzed and discussed.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2009.06.108

Materiales Nanoestructurados y Microestructura

Chemical and electronic interface structure of spray pyrolysis deposited undoped and Al-doped ZnO thin films on a commercial Cz-Si solar cell substrate

Gabas, M; Barrett, NT; Ramos-Barrado, JR; Gota, S; Rojas, TC; Lopez-Escalante, MC
Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 93 (2009) 1356-1365
DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2009.02.018

Abstract

We have studied differences in the interface between undoped and Al-doped ZnO thin films deposited on commercial Si solar cell substrates. The undoped ZnO film is significantly thicker than the Al-doped film for the same deposition time. An extended silicate-like interface is present in both samples. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and photoelectron spectroscopy (PES) probe the presence of a zinc silicate and several Si oxides in both cases. Although Al doping improves the conductivity of ZnO, we present evidence for Al segregation at the interface during deposition on the Si substrate and suggest the presence of considerable fixed charge near the oxidized Si interface layer. The induced distortion in the valence band, compared to that of undoped ZnO, could be responsible for considerable reduction in the solar cell performance.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2009.02.018

Nanotecnología en Superficies y Plasma

Incorporation and Thermal Evolution of Rhodamine 6G Dye Molecules Adsorbed in Porous Columnar Optical SiO2 Thin Films

Sanchez-Valencia, JR; Blaszczyk-Lezak, I; Espinos, JP; Hamad, S; Gonzalez-Elipe, AR; Barranco, A
Langmuir, 25 (2009) 6869-6874
DOI: 10.1021/la900695t

Abstract

Rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) dye molecules have been incorporated into transparent and porous SiO2 thin films prepared by evaporation at glancing angles. The porosity of these films has been assessed by analyzing their water adsorption isotherms measured for the films deposited on a quartz crystal monitor. Composite Rh6G/SiO2 thin films were prepared by immersion of a SiO2 thin film into a solution of the dye at a given pH. It is found that the amount of Rh6G molecules incorporated into the film is directly dependent on the pH of the solution and can be accounted for by a model based on the point of zero charge (PZC) concepts originally developed for colloidal oxides. At low pHs, the dye molecules incorporate in the form of monomers, while dimers or higher aggregates are formed if the pH increases. Depending on the actual preparation and treatment conditions, they also exhibit high relative fluorescence efficiency. The thermal stability of the composite films has been also investigated by characterizing their optical behavior after heating in an Ar atmosphere at increasing temperatures up to 275 °C. Heating induces a progressive loss of active dye molecules, a change in their agglomeration state, and an increment in their relative fluorescence efficiency. The obtained Rh6G/SiO2 composite thin films did not disperse the light and therefore can be used for integration into optical and photonic devices.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1021/la900695t

Química de Superficies y Catálisis

Aluminium anodisation for Au-CeO2/Al2O3-Al monoliths preparation

Sanz, O; Martinez, LM; Echave, FJ; Dominguez, MI; Centeno, MA; Odriozola, JA; Montes, M
Chemical Engineering Journal, 151 (2009) 324-332
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2009.03.062

Abstract

The anodisation of aluminium monoliths was performed in order to generate an alumina layer that ensures a good adherence of the catalysts. In this study, it is demonstrated that the morphology of the produced alumina layer depends on time, temperature, current density and concentration of the selected electrolyte. When anodisation process with the extreme conditions was applied (30 °C, 50 min, 2 A dm−2 and 2.6 M of sulphuric acid) a significant cracks were obtained and used to fix the subsequent catalytic coatings. The washcoating method was used to cover the monoliths with colloidal solutions of CeO2 and/or Au-CeO2 catalysts. The resulting monolithic catalysts were tested in the CO oxidation reaction being 1%Au-CeO2 containing system the most active. The structured catalyst prepared this way changed neither the textural nor the catalytic properties of the deposited catalytic powders.


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2009.03.062

Reactividad de Sólidos

Synthesis of complex carbonitride powders TiyMT1−yCxN1−x (MT: Zr, V, Ta, Hf) via a mechanically induced self-sustaining reaction

Cordoba, JM; Aviles, MA; Sayagues, MJ; Alcala, MD; Gotor, FJ
Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 482 (2012) 349-355
DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2009.04.012

Abstract

The machinability of materials is a dynamic field with enormous implications in different industrial sectors because manufacturers are constantly looking for improvements that can increase the overall productivity. Manufacturers of cutting tool inserts need to develop products that can perform at higher speeds and last longer under increasingly rigorous operating conditions. It has been revealed that cermets may exhibit better properties and performances when solid solution of multiple hard compounds is added instead of a mixture of several binary ones. In this work, a mechanically induced self-sustaining reaction (MSR) is described as a suitable synthesis method to obtain a wide range of different new quaternary carbonitride systems by milling mixtures of elemental powders of transition metals and graphite in a nitrogen atmosphere. Characterization was carried out using X-ray powder diffraction, elemental analysis, energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), scanning and transmission electron microscopy and electron diffraction (ED).


Agosto, 2009 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2009.04.012

 

 

 

 

 

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