Final Film Research Articles

Two‐Pronged Maneuver of Inner Regulation and Surface Repair for Stable Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells with Ultralow Open‐Circuit Voltage Deficit

Despite inorganic perovskites are suitable for application into tandem solar cells, the unsatisfactory crystal quality and inevitable surface defects of low‐temperature fabricated inorganic perovskites lead to undesirable open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficit, which limits the further development of inorganic perovskite solar cells (IPSCs). Herein, dimethylammonium chloride (DMACl) was introduced into perovskite precursor to prolong the solid‐state reactions between intermediate phases of DMAPbX3 and Cs4PbX6, and mediate crystallization process of inorganic perovskite, leading to obtain high‐quality CsPbI2.75Br0.25 perovskite films without DMA+ residue in perovskite films after annealing. Additionally, the energy level position of perovskite slightly downshift after adding DMACl, narrowing the band offsets between perovskite and carrier transport layers. To further reduce VOC deficit and improve the performance of IPSCs, cesium iodide (CsI) thin layer is evaporated onto the perovskite surface to repair inevitable I‐related defects. Ultimately, the VOC and performance of IPSCs are improved without introducing organic components into final perovskite films. A champion photoelectric conversion efficiency of 20.75% is achieved, and the VOC deficit is significantly decreased to 0.382 V, which is the minimum VOC deficit of IPSCs at present. Additionally, the stability of the perovskite films and IPSCs has also been remarkably enhanced.

In-Situ construction of Lithium-Ion channel within PVDF/VNs@PDA composite separators for remarkable enhanced cycle stability and safety for lithium batteries (LIBs)

In this work, a non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS) technique was used to prepare polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) lithium battery (LIB) separators. Firstly, vermiculite nanosheets (VNs) coated by polydopamine (PDA), i.e., VNs@PDA, was ultrasonically dispersed in DMAc and PVDF was solution-blended with VNs@PDA with final porous composite films obtained after the extraction of DMAc. Effects of the presence of VNs@PDA on both structure and properties of PVDF films were intensively studied, and the SEM observations further suggested that the addition of VNs@PDA heavily affected the thermodynamic parameters between the polymer and solvent, causing a remarkable enhancement on the thermodynamic instability of the PVDF solution system. The polymer–solvent phase separation by the addition of less nonsolvent tended to induce the formation of long finger-like pores. An incorporation of 7.0 wt% VNs@PDA resulted in an increase in ionic conductivity of the composite membrane from 0.320 mS·cm−1 to 1.515 mS·cm−1 via AC impedance tests. The incorporation of VNs@PDA not only enhanced the hydrophilicity of the composite films (as judged by water contact angle dropping from 112.7° to 74.2°), but also significantly improved both battery performance and mechanical properties. The present study provides a facile way of fabricating LIB separators with sufficiently high safety and superior performance.

Selective destruction in alkali solutions of imide and urethane blocks in thermolized samples of copoly(urethane-imide) films

The selective destruction of urethane and imide units in a copoly(urethane-imide) obtained on the basis of pyromellitic anhydride, 4,4′-oxydianiline, toluene-2,4-diisocyanate, polycaprolactone and containing an increased proportion of imide units was investigated. A sequential destruction was carried out, including preliminary thermolysis of the samples followed by hydrolysis of the film in solutions of potassium oxide hydrate. It is shown that in the process of chemodestruction, imide units are more labile compared to urethane units (based on polycaprolactone). As a result of chemodestruction, in the final samples, which are similar in chemical structure to poly(oxydiphenylene)pyromellitimide, urethane blocks remain in residual quantities. The characterization of the final films was carried out using the methods of TGA, DSC, DMA, AFM. The deformation-strength properties of the samples remain almost constant during the destruction processes of the copoly(urethane-imide). The results obtained are of interest in the light of the development of porous membrane materials.

Low-temperature synergistic effect of MA and Cl towards high-quality α-FAPbI3 films for humid-air-processed perovskite solar cells.

Due to the hydrophilicity and black-phase instability of FA perovskites, ambient humidity is an unavoidable issue in the processing of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). MACl is among the most popular additives for improving perovskite films, but our experiments confirm that the direct addition of MACl into the precursor solution deteriorates the stability of the final α-FAPbI3 films in humid air, which is attributed to the unwanted pinholes induced by MACl volatilization. To solve this problem, a novel confined-space annealing strategy (CSA) is intentionally developed to control the amount of MACl at a low level. Through retarding the volatilization of MACl and blocking moisture ingress, dense and δ-phase-free FAPbI3 films with excellent crystallinity and stability are achieved at 100 °C under high humidity (RH: 60 ± 10%). We further compare the same amounts of MAI and FACl additives with MACl, discovering that only when MA and Cl work together can pure α-FAPbI3 films be obtained; therefore, a mechanism of MA-assisted nucleation and Cl-induced diffusion recrystallization is inferred. As a result, the PSCs employing optimal films yield a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 17.27% and retain over 90% of the initial PCE after exposure to high humidity for 480 h. Our results offer deep insights into the thermodynamic and kinetic behaviors of MA and Cl in film growth and are beneficial for air-processed FA-based PSCs for commercial application.

Director–Composer Duo: Polanski & Komeda’s Deconstruction of Film Music Conventions in Horror Cinema. "Fearless Vampire Killers" (1967) and "Rosemary’s Baby" (1968)

This article looks at the relationship between music and image in the two final films that Roman Polanski made with Krzysztof Komeda. Fearless Vampire Killers and Rosemary’s Baby are cinematic examples of a very close collaboration between a director and a composer. The article deals with the function of music in relation to genre films. The most important question is the extent to which Krzysztof Komeda’s compositions adhere to or depart from the horror film music convention. A key issue in this context, and one that applies to both of the analyzed films, is the technique of leitmotifs which Polanski and Komeda developed already in their first short films. In Fearless Vampire Killers and Rosemary’s Baby, the jointly developed director-composer method evolved greatly, and Polanski’s collaboration with Komeda took on a very distinctive style, which the author of this article attempts to describe and define. The text is a translation of an excerpt from the chapter "Nieustraszeni zabójcy wampirów i Dziecko Rosemary, czyli filmowe wyzwanie dla jazzmana, który przestaje nim być” [The Fearless Vampire Killers and Rosemary’s Baby, or a film challenge for a soon-to-be ex-jazzman] in the book Reżyser na ścieżce dźwiękowej. Funkcje muzyki w twórczości filmowej Romana Polańskiego [The director on the soundtrack: functions of music in Roman Polański’s films] published by Wydawnictwo Naukowe UAM, Poznań 2018.

LINEARITY TEST ANALYSIS OF AIRCRAFT RADIATION OUTPUT X-RAY FLUOROSCOPY

The number or intensity of X-ray photons produced correlates with the increase in tube current per time (mAs), which affects the image density on the final film. To ensure the consistency of the increase in X-ray radiation output and the Linear Coefficient of X-ray radiation output, is within the tolerance limits specified in PERKA BAPETEN Regulation Number 9 of 2011. The aim of this research is to determine the linearity of the X-ray Fluoroscopy radiation output in one of the houses. Jakarta sick. The method used is an experimental approach with a quantitative model. Measurement of radiation output using a PM1610 Personal Dosimeter on a Fluoroscopy aircraft. The results of measuring the linearity of X-ray radiation output with voltage variations of 40 kV, 50 kV, 60 kV, 70 kV show that the value of the Linearity Coefficient (CL) is (0.08 ; 0.06 ; 0.09 ; 0.07). So it can be said that the X-Ray Fluoroscopy equipment is in good condition because the CL value obtained in this study is below the Tolerance Limit Value according to PERKA BAPETEN Number 9 of 2011, namely CL ≤ 0.1 or ≤10%. This research can be carried out as a reference in further research

Waterborne Polymer Coatings with Bright Noniridescent Structural Colors.

Structural color pigments offer an efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly approach to obtain waterborne polymer coatings. We developed polymer-based spherical photonic pigments to incorporate in aqueous dispersions of polymer nanoparticles used to obtain waterborne polymer films. Our spherical photonic pigments are assembled from polymer nanoparticles and are highly stable in water dispersion, maintaining their optical properties in the final polymer films. Unlike conventional dyes and pigments, which are prone to photobleaching because they are based on the absorption of light, photonic pigments rely on the selective reflection of light by their nanostructure and therefore are not photodegraded. Furthermore, different colors can be obtained from the same materials, changing only their nanostructure, in this case, the size of the polymer nanoparticles. Our novel spherical photonic pigments are noniridescent and can be incorporated in aqueous polymer nanoparticle dispersions without deteriorating their structure to produce waterborne polymer coatings with structural color. This approach for structural colored waterborne polymer coatings is efficient, simple, and environmentally friendly, offering excellent prospects for application in paints and coatings.

Effect of die exit flow conditions on air-gap film dynamics in two-dimensional film casting processes: Short Communication

The impact of the inlet velocity profile at the die exit on the film dynamics within the air-gap region was investigated using numerical simulations for both Newtonian and viscoelastic Phan-Thien and Tanner (PTT) fluids in isothermal two-dimensional (2-D) film casting processes. In an industrial context, intentional adjustments were made to reduce the inlet velocities at the edge of the casting die, effectively mitigating the edge-beads characterized by a higher edge thickness than the center thickness of the final films. By varying the inlet velocity conditions with decreasing edge velocities, the steady film dynamics were correlated with the onsets of draw resonance instability and frequency responses to a disturbance, which were determined using the transfer function data obtained under tension-controlled conditions. The results revealed that decreasing the inlet velocity at the edge improved not only the formation of films but also the process stability for both Newtonian and viscoelastic fluids. In addition, the sensitivity or frequency response to a disturbance was effectively reduced by decreasing the inlet velocity at the edge. This observed impact of the inlet velocity was closely related to the increased tension levels at take-up and a greater portion of the neck-like deformation type in the air-gap region.

Plasmonic metasurfaces of cellulose nanocrystal matrices with quadrants of aligned gold nanorods for photothermal anti-icing

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are intriguing as a matrix for plasmonic metasurfaces made of gold nanorods (GNRs) because of their distinctive properties, including renewability, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and low cost. Nevertheless, it is very difficult to precisely regulate the positioning and orientation of CNCs on the substrate in a consistent pattern. In this study, CNCs and GNRs, which exhibit tunable optical and anti-icing capabilities, are employed to manufacture a uniform plasmonic metasurface using a drop-casting technique. Two physical phenomena—(i) spontaneous and rapid self-dewetting and (ii) evaporation-induced self-assembly—are used to accomplish this. Additionally, we improve the CNC-GNR ink composition and determine the crucial coating parameters necessary to balance the two physical mechanisms in order to produce thin films without coffee rings. The final homogeneous CNC-GNR film has consistent annular ring patterns with plasmonic quadrant hues that are properly aligned, which enhances plasmonic photothermal effects. The CNC-GNR multi-array platform offers above-zero temperatures on a substrate that is subcooled below the freezing point. The current study presents a physicochemical approach for functional nanomaterial-based CNC control.

Layer by layer assembly of strontium substituted nanowire hydroxyapatite and hybrid of carbon derivatives as potential biomaterial for bone metastasis treatment

To devise a highly effective implant for addressing bone metastasis with the unique capability of self-oxygen generation, a multifunctional film was engineered using a Layer-by-Layer technique. The film, comprised of strontium-substituted hydroxyapatite nanowires (SrwHAP) and a graphitic carbon nitride/graphene oxide (g-CN/GO) hybrid, was meticulously designed. To optimize the film's interaction with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the number of layers was adjusted. Subsequent surface coating involved extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from osteogenic cells. The final film, ((CN/GO). SrwHAP)2. ECM, exhibited pronounced MSC attachment and an accelerated proliferation rate. Key osteogenic markers such as alkaline phosphatase activity, mineralization, RUNX2, and osteocalcin expression remarkably increased when compared to the glass substrate. Notably, the presence of LED irradiation yielded further enhancements in proliferation and osteogenic markers, attributed to the photocatalytic properties of the (CN/GO) hybrid alongside O2 generation. Direct co-culturing of MSCs and breast cancer cells (MCF7) on its surface, coupled with LED irradiation not only bolstered the osteogenic potential of MSCs but also reduced tumor colonies over time. Impressively, ((CN/GO). SrwHAP)2. ECM also demonstrated potent antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Based on the results obtained, ((CN/GO). SrwHAP)2. ECM emerges as a promising candidate for addressing bone defects in patients afflicted by breast cancer bone metastasis.

The interplay between macromolecular structure, rheology, processing condition, and morphology for (linear) low density polyethylenes in film blowing

Film blowing is a crucial plastic conversion technique for (Linear) Low Density Polyethylene ((L)LDPE), widely employed in the industry. However, understanding its complexities, which involve a delicate interplay between various parameters, such as macromolecular features, flow behavior, processing conditions, and final film performance, remains limited in the literature. Notably, the quantification of processability in film blowing has not yet been adequately addressed. Present study investigates the key parameters in this interplay, introduces a framework to quantify the processability, and establishes its connection with molecular weight (distribution) and the extensional flow behavior of (L)LDPE. Additionally, selected processing conditions are correlated with the crystalline morphology and performance of the films. The findings of this research offer a fundamental understanding of the film blowing process and serve as a valuable baseline for future endeavors involving more complicated polymer systems, such as blends and contaminated recyclates. By shedding light on the crucial parameters and their interdependencies, this work contributes to advancing the efficiency and quality of the process, facilitating the production of high-performance films.

Molecular mobility in near-surface nano-layers of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene as revealed by thermoluminescence activated by low temperature Ar plasma

Aiming at better understanding the properties of the near-surface nano-layers of UHMWPE reactorpowders (RP) used for manufacturing high-performance fibers by solvent-free processing, acomparative study of the molecular mobility in the nano-layers of two different UHMWPE RP andits change after compaction and sintering is carried out with the help of thermoluminescence method.The dependence of the intensity of light quanta emitted by heated samples (previously evacuated,cooled to 77 K, and activated by low-temperature argon plasma) on the heating temperature (glowcurves) is analyzed. The glow curves were recorded using a unique Nanoluminograph device, whichexists in a single copy at Ioffe Institute. It was found that all the glow curves observed had thecomplicate profiles, which evidenced the overlapping of a number of relaxation processes. The Fityksoftware was used for deconvolution the experimental curves into elementary peaks. The length ofthe so-called kinetic unit of motion (the mobility of which is defreezing in the temperature intervalof each elementary peak) was calculated. The influence of the behavior of the near-surface RPnano-layer during compaction/sintering on the achieved strength of the oriented final film threads isdemonstrated.

Triethylsilane introduced precursor engineering towards efficient and stable perovskite solar cells

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are believed to be optimistic for commercial deployment soon since the power conversion efficiency of PSCs presently reaches up to 26.10 % due to the intensive efforts these years. The two-step method is comparatively more suitable for scalable perovskite films, where lead halides and ammonium salts are prepared in separate precursors and deposited sequentially. Therefore, the reactivity between these two precursors governs the quality of final perovskite films and the intrinsic non-radiative recombination (NRR) at the perovskite's interfaces. Herein, we empowered both types of precursors, one by one and then simultaneously, with triethylsilane (TES) to investigate its effect on the (FAPbI3)1-x (MAPbBr3)x perovskite's morphological and optoelectronic properties. TES, with ethyl moieties and metalloid center, in ammonium salts delivers homogeneous perovskites' crystals and inhibits the NRR of perovskite films by reducing the defects and trap states. As a result, the optimized devices exhibit not only improved device performance (particularly for the increased fill factors and open circuit voltages) but also enhanced stabilities.

Cd-Free Pure Sulfide Kesterite Cu2 ZnSnS4 Solar Cell with Over 800mV Open-Circuit Voltage Enabled by Phase Evolution Intervention.

The Cd-free Cu2 ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cell is an ideal candidate for producing low-cost clean energy through green materials owing to its inherent environmental friendliness and earth abundance. Nevertheless, sulfide CZTS has long suffered from severe open-circuit voltage (VOC ) deficits, limiting the full exploitation of performance potential and further progress. Here, an effective strategy is proposed to alleviate the nonradiative VOC loss by manipulating the phase evolution during the critical kesterite phase formation stage. With a Ge cap layer on the precursor, premature CZTS grain formation is suppressed at low temperatures, leading to fewer nucleation centers at the initial crystallization stage. Consequently, the CZTS grain formation and crystallization are deferred to high temperatures, resulting in enhanced grain interior quality and less unfavorable grain boundaries in the final film. As a result, a champion efficiency of 10.7% for Cd-free CZTS solar cells with remarkably high VOC beyond 800mV (63.2% Schockley-Queisser limit) is realized, indicating that nonradiative recombination is effectively inhibited. This strategy may advance other compound semiconductors seeking high-quality crystallization.

Systematic investigation of MAX phase (Ti3AlC2) modified polyethersulfone membrane performance for forward osmosis applications in desalination

The current work presented an in-depth investigation of the design and fabrication of thin film membranes for desalination applications by forward osmosis (FO). This includes manipulating the substrate membrane structure aiming to optimize the final thin film composite membrane characteristics. In this context, the MAX phase (Ti3AlC2) as a 2D material has been harnessed to impart novel desirable traits on the prepared membrane. MAX phase has been impregnated in two disparate concentrations and three different scenarios including the substrate membrane and the polyamide layer in both the aqueous and organic phases during the interfacial polymerization. Membranes were comprehensively characterized by a series of experimental tools and methodologies including Atomic Force Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Contact Angle, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, pore size and porosity. Results disclosed that substrate membrane structure has a pivotal impact on final TFC/TFN membrane performance. Besides, the MAX phase (Ti3AlC2) could significantly enhance the morphological characteristics of the membrane and ultimately the performance in terms of water flux and reverse salt flux based on the content and the way impregnated. The permeation properties of the composite membranes were significantly superior to the pure PES membrane and the mean pore size also increased with the addition amount of MAX phase (Ti3AlC2) increased.

High kinetic inductance NbTiN films for quantum limited travelling wave parametric amplifiers

A wide-bandwidth and low-noise amplification chain in the microwave regime is crucial for the efficient read-out of quantum systems based on superconducting detectors, such as Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs), Transition Edge Sensors (TESs), Magnetic Microcalorimeters (MMCs), and RF cavities, as well as qubits. Kinetic Inductance Travelling Wave Parametric Amplifiers (KI-TWPAs) operated in a three-wave mixing fashion have demonstrated exceptional dynamic range and low-noise performance, approaching the quantum limit. These amplifiers can be fabricated using a single layer of a high kinetic inductance film as weakly dispersive artificial transmission lines, with the ability to control the phase-matched bandwidth through dispersion engineering. In this study, we present the optimisation of the rf sputter-deposition process of NbTiN films using a Nb80%Ti20% target, with the goal of achieving precise control over film characteristics, resulting in high kinetic inductance while maintaining a high transition temperature. The parameter landscape related to the different sputtering conditions, such as pressure, power, and nitrogen flow, has been explored and the film thickness has been used as a fine-tuning parameter to adjust the properties of the final NbTiN films used for the fabrication of KI-TWPAs. As a final result, we have obtained a NbTiN film with a kinetic inductance of 8.5 pH/sq which we have exploited to fabricate KI-TWPA prototype devices, showing promising amplification performance.

Effect of Chloride Incorporation on the Intermediate Phase and Film Morphology of Methylammonium Lead Halide Perovskites.

The influence of chloride integration on perovskite film deposition, encompassing both the structures of intermediate phases and the properties of the final films, was explored. Our methodology involved the fabrication of perovskite intermediate-phase films with varying concentrations of methylammonium chloride (MACl). Subsequently, we conducted an analysis employing X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement, incorporating the March-Dollase correction, to gain insights into how chloride-induced intermediate phases impact film morphology. Remarkably, a distinct preferred orientation was observed in the (020) lattice plane perpendicular to the substrate surface, and this orientation was found to be directly correlated to the MACl concentration. This distinctive arrangement of chloride-induced intermediate-phase complexes facilitated controlled crystallization, leading to highly oriented crystals and an improved film morphology. As a consequence, perovskite solar cell devices incorporating chloride-containing methylammonium lead iodide achieved a power conversion efficiency exceeding 20%. These findings suggest a crucial link between the preferred orientation observed in the final chlorine-derived perovskite films and the intermediate-phase structure formed during the initial stages of perovskite formation. These results suggest a profound impact of intermediate phase compositions and crystal structures on perovskite formation, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive understanding of these factors to enable precise control over ideal structures and the subsequent transformation into high-quality perovskite films.

Nanocone-shaped Ni-electroplated carbon fiber composite films for electromagnetic shielding applications

This study developed a series of lightweight composite films with adjustable reflectivity and superior mechanical properties. Carbon fiber (CF) was electroplated with both conventional and nanocone-shaped Ni coatings to create Ni-plated carbon fiber (CF@Ni), which was then further classified into conventional Ni carbon fiber (CF@CN) and nanocone-shaped Ni carbon fiber (CF@NN). CF@Ni fibers were sheared and filtered to produce Ni-plated carbon fiber fabric (CFF@Ni), which was then encapsulated in polyimide resin (PI) to form the final thin film materials (CF@Ni/PI). The shielding performance and mechanical properties of these CF@Ni/PI thin films have been comprehensively investigated. The study found that the nanocone-shaped Ni-plated samples exhibited superior performance. Absorption loss was dominant when a relatively low amount of Ni-plated carbon fiber was added, while reflection loss dominated when a relatively high amount was added. Adding 0.3 g of nanocone-shaped Ni carbon fiber created a 1.2 mm thin film with a shielding effectiveness of 71 dB and a tensile strength of 22.4 MPa. Additionally, the thin film demonstrated excellent flexibility and durability. Due to its exceptional mechanical properties and flexibility, this composite film holds significant potential in the fields of microelectronics and intelligent electronic devices.

Chemically-stable flexible transparent electrode: gold-electrodeposited on embedded silver nanowires

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) with a low diameter, high aspect ratio, stable suspension, and easy synthesis have recently attracted the optoelectronic industry as a low-cost alternative to indium tin oxide transparent conductive films. However, silver nanowires are not chemically stable, and their conductivity diminishes over time due to reactions with atmospheric components. This is a bottleneck for their wide industrial applications. In this study, we aim to address this issue by synthesizing silver nanowires with an average diameter of approximately 65 nm and a length of approximately 13 µm. The prepared Ag nanowires are then applied to fabricate transparent, flexible, and chemically stable conductive films. The fabrication includes spraying of silver nanowires suspension on a glass substrate followed by Dr. blade coating of polystyrene (PS) solution and delamination of the PS-AgNWs film. The resulting film exhibits an optimum sheet resistance of 24 Ω/□ and transmittance of 84%. To further enhance the stability of the transparent conductive film, the facial and scalable double pulse electrodeposition method is used for coating of gold on the exposed surface of the AgNWs embedded in PS. The final transparent film with gold coating demonstrates a remarkable stability under harsh conditions including long exposure to UV light and nitric acid solution. After 100 min of UV/Ozone treatment, the increase in sheet resistance of the optimal PS-AgNW@Au sample is 15.6 times lower than the samples without gold coating. In addition, the change in sheet resistance after 2000 bending cycles in the optimal PS-AgNW@Au electrode is measured and it showed an increase of only 22% of its initial sheet resistance indicating its good flexibility. The proposed electrode performs an excellent chemical stability, good conductivity, transparency, and flexibility that makes it a potential candidate for various optoelectronic devices.

The Transformative Magic of Education in Walt Disney’s <em>The Sword in the Stone</em>

The Transformative Magic of Education in Walt Disney’s <em>The Sword in the Stone</em>