Methodology For Characterization Research Articles

A Radar-Based Methodology for Aerosol Plume Identification and Characterisation on the South African Highveld

Biomass burning on the South African Highveld annually injects substantial amounts of aerosols and trace gases into the atmosphere, impacting the global radiative balance, cloud microphysics, and regional air quality. These aerosols are transported as plumes over long distances, posing challenges to existing in situ and satellite-based monitoring techniques because of their limited spatial and temporal resolution, particularly in environments with low-level sources. This study aims to develop and validate a novel radar-based methodology to detect, track, and characterise aerosol plumes, addressing the limitations of existing in situ and satellite monitoring techniques. Using high-resolution volumetric reflectivity data from an S-band radar in Pretoria, South Africa, a traditional storm tracking algorithm is adapted to improve plume identification. Case studies of plume events in June and August 2013 demonstrate the radar’s effectiveness in distinguishing lower vertical profiles and reduced reflectivity of plumes compared with storm echoes. The adapted algorithm successfully tracked the spatial and temporal evolution of the plumes, revealing their short-lived nature. Results indicate that radar-derived geospatial characteristics have the potential to contribute significantly to understanding the impacts of plumes on local air quality. These findings underscore the critical need for high spatio-temporal resolution data to support effective air quality management and inform policy development in regions affected by biomass burning.

Quantitative 13C-IS pyrolysis-GC-MS lignin analysis: Overcoming matrix effects in animal feed and faeces

Recently, a pyrolysis-GC-MS methodology for specific lignin quantification and structural characterisation was developed, relying on the use of uniformly 13C-labeled polymeric lignin isolate as internal standard (IS). The 13C-IS py-GC-MS method has been validated for grasses, woods, and applied in various showcases. To study the fate of lignin in animals, this method still requires careful validation in animal feeds and, especially complex faecal samples, hence the aim of this work. Hereto, faecal material was collected from pigs fed with wheat straw as lignin source and subjected to the py-GC-MS analytical platform for thorough examination of IS pyrolysis behaviour in terms of response and structural features. Next, 13C-ISpy-lignin contents and corrected Klason lignin contents were compared. Most importantly, we revealed that pyrolysis behaviour of 13C-IS lignin and 12C-sample lignin was differently affected in the faecal matrix, resulting in the ultimate underestimation of 13C-ISpy-lignin contents. In-depth examination and evaluation of matrix constituents showed that predominantly matrix ash was responsible for the effects observed. We further demonstrated that said matrix effects can be overcome by water extraction of the samples prior to analysis. Our validation and approach extend the use of the specific 13C-IS py-GC-MS methodology for accurate quantitative lignin analysis to biomass samples with complex matrices like pig faeces, and now call for application in future digestibility studies.

Comparative analysis of two liner acoustic impedance characterization techniques

This study presents the comparison of two methodologies of small size liner acoustic impedance characterization. The first one is based on a normal incidence broadband acoustic excitation up to 160 dB inside a 30-mm diameter circular tube, and uses the two microphones method, with microphones flush-mounted inside the waveguide. This bench, called NTMM and developed at Airbus, allows to directly compute the acoustic impedance at the surface of the sample. The second one lies on a measurement inside the B2A wind tunnel at ONERA, where the sample is mounted as one of the vein walls, leading to a grazing aero-acoustic excitation, up to Mach 0.3 and 155 dB with a broadband excitation. The impedance is then educed by an inverse method. During the MAMBO research project, dedicated samples have been designed and tested with the two benches as well as on the CANNELLE multimodal test rig developed by Airbus. The full paper will analyze the results and offer a cross comparison of the methodologies, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each approach.

Aloebarbadensis - Assisted MgBiO/MgCuBiO/MgBaBiO nanocomposites as effective gamma shielding novel materials

For the first of its kind, MgO/Bi2O3 (1:1) (MBO), MgO/CuO/Bi2O3 (1:1:1) (MCBO) and MgO/BaO/Bi2O3 (1:1:1) (MBBO) binary/ternary nanocomposites (NCs) were synthesized by Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) mediated solution combustion method. The as-formed NCs are subjected to calcination for 3 h at 600oC.The Mg-based NCs acquired are subjected to various analytical characterization methodologies, including PXRD (Powder X-ray Diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy), FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), and Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis). The Bragg reflections confirm the formation of monoclinic phase BaO, Bi2O3, cubic MgO and tetragonal CuO nanoparticles. The surface morphology of MBO, MCBO and MBBO NCs consists of irregular sized, leafy and burrow like structured agglomerated NPs with hollows and voids/pores. The Eg (direct energy band gap) determined from W-H (Wood and Tauc's) plot was found to be 3.09, 3.19 and 3.12 eV for MBO, MCBO and MBBO NCs respectively. The evaluation of gamma radiation shielding properties was conducted using a NaI (Tl) detector connected to a multi-channel analyzer. Shielding parameters of MBO, MCBO and MBBO, such as μ/ρ (mass attenuation coefficient), λ (mean free path), HVL (half-value layer), TVL (tenth-value layer) are measured. Among the as-synthesized Mg-based NCs, MBO exhibits better shielding properties compared to MCBO and MBBO. Thus, the procured Mg-based NCs are suitable for applications where weight reduction is critical, such as aerospace or portable radiation shielding systems.

Estimation of the surface impedance based on the discrete complex image source method and array processing

This paper introduces a method for estimating the sound absorption coefficient of a large panel of absorbing material from measurements using a microphone array. The method relies upon describing the pressure field as the set of monopoles obtained when the reflection coefficient is represented as the Laplace Transform of an image source distribution. This formulation results in a well-behaved integral equation, which is discretized using Gaussian quadrature to yield an inverse problem. It is possible to determine the regularized solution to the inverse problem and reconstruct the surface impedance of the sample by conducting measurements of the sound pressure at multiple points of observation. This sound field representation is adequate for sound sources in the close range of the material and the array. The paper presents simulated and experimental investigations to delineate the efficacy of the proposed measurement technique against the well-known image source method, thereby highlighting its significant potential to advance acoustic characterization methodologies.

Radiometric characterization of daytime luminescent materials directly under the solar illumination

The materials efficiently emitting photoluminescence (PL) under solar irradiation could find broad applications in passive radiative cooling of buildings, urban heat mitigation, and solar energy harvesting. In this work, we discuss the limitations of common laboratory characterization of such materials (using tunable light sources or solar simulators) and propose a methodology for direct outdoor characterization of PL efficiency under full solar irradiation. A simple, portable radiometry setup with an integrating sphere is described, and its capability of rapid determination of the spectral distribution of the absorbed and emitted power, as well as the overall PL power efficiency and quantum yield, is demonstrated. By characterization of three materials developed for daytime radiative cooling applications, we reveal deviations of obtained parameters caused by the replacement of the real solar irradiation by that of solar simulators. The described method is suitable for studies of long-term stability, photo-induced degradation, or thermal effects.

Characterization of Traditional Pottery Artifacts from Yucatán Peninsula, México: Implications for Manufacturing Process Based on Elemental Analyses

The present work is focused on developing and implementing a minimally invasive methodology for material characterization of traditional pottery from Yucatan, México. The developed methodology, which combines elemental (X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)) and molecular (fiber optic reflectance spectroscopy (FORS)) spectroscopic analytical techniques, allowed for the characterization of contemporary pottery objects manufactured following traditional recipes in the town of Uayma, Yucatán, México and raw materials associated with the pottery manufacturing process. The results allowed us to detect and estimate the number of selected elements and helped to infer the presence of complex materials such as iron oxides, aluminosilicates, and calcium carbonate. Additionally, the analysis indicated two pottery groups separated by their elemental and molecular composition, corresponding to the sources of raw materials employed by the potters. It confirmed the absence of toxic compounds in ceramic objects, a significant concern for potters, as some objects are intended for domestic use. The research findings provide reassurance about the safety of these products.

Evaluation of a non-metallic dual-port expander for intensity modulated proton therapy.

To provide a methodology for characterization of the technical properties of a newly developed non-metallic tissue expander for intensity modulated proton therapy. Three tissue expanders (AlloX2-Pro: plastic-dual port, AlloX2: metal-dual port, and Dermaspan: metal-single port) were deconstructed, CT-scanned, and modeled in RayStation12A. A 165MeV single spot was used to create RayStation dose planes, and the integrated depth dose profiles were calculated and the DR90 extracted to predict water equivalent thickness (WET). These predictions were compared to measurements taken with an IBA Giraffe MLIC. Native, water, and fully modelled overrides were compared for the AlloX2 Pro to quantify differences in override choices. Geometric considerations between expanders were compared using a ray-tracing technique to contour the "no-fly" zone around metallic components using a clinical, three beam arrangement. Lastly, a planning and evaluation framework was provided using a single plan as an illustration. The measured AlloX2-Pro WET values were within 0.22cm of RayStation predictions while metallic values ranged from 0.08 to 0.46cm. Using natively scanned density values for the AlloX2 Pro improved the discrepancy in WET between predicted and measured from -0.22 to -0.09cm (drain) and from -0.17 to -0.12cm (injection). The "no-fly" zone volume of all three beams reduced 95% between the AlloX2-Pro and Dermaspan, which geometrically allowed more uniform coverage behind the port and reduced need for beam modulation. The beam perturbation of the AlloX2-Pro is well modeled, but improved agreement with measured WET values was observed when utilizing native densities in calculations. The AlloX2 Pro can support beam arrangements that traverse the ports, which can enable simpler beam geometry and a reduction in dose modulation around the port to promote improved robustness and treatment delivery quality.

Multifaceted Characterization Methodology for Understanding Nonidealities in Perovskite Solar Cells: A Passivation Case Study

Multifaceted Characterization Methodology for Understanding Nonidealities in Perovskite Solar Cells: A Passivation Case Study

Characterization, registration and gazette notification

The first animal to be domesticated by the man was dog which probably occurred at least 14,000 years ago- the animals being used for hunting and as watchdogs. In India many exotic dog breeds (mainly German Shepherd, Labrador, Doberman, Pomeranian etc) are kept as pet but little emphasis has been given to the native dog breeds. Some Indian breeds of dogs reported in India are Caravan Hound, Combai, Chippiparai, Rajapalayam, Rampur Hound, Kanni, Mudhol Hound, Indian Mastiff (Bulli), Himalayan sheep dog, Bhutia dogs, Bhakarwal dogs etc. ICAR-NBAGR has developed methodology for characterization of dog breeds of Indian through systematic survey in the area of its distribution along with Breed Descriptors format for dog breeds. Phenotypic characterization of two indigenous dog breeds viz Rajapalayam and Chippiparai were completed by ICAR-NBAGR. Rajapalayam and Chippiparai dogs are exclusively reared for guarding the farm and farm houses. Chippiparai dogs are even given to brides during marriage. There is huge demand for the pups of these dog breeds. State of Karnataka has also completed the characterization of Mudhol hound breed. All three dog have been registered by ICAR & Gazette notified by Govt. of India.

Enhanced slit methodology for characterization of x‐ray focal properties

AbstractThe measurement of focal spot sizes in industrial x‐ray tubes using conventional edge and slit methods typically requires complex slit diaphragms and auxiliary testing equipment. Additionally, stringent spatial‐positioning requirements are imposed on the x‐ray tube, auxiliary testing equipment, and detector, making the machining of auxiliary testing equipment and meeting test conditions challenging. This study optimized and improved the auxiliary testing equipment and computations in the slit method based on the principles of the edge method. An experimental setup capable of self‐calibrating the spatial positions was designed, avoiding measurement errors during focal‐spot‐size measurements. We derived a formula for the focal spot size for this experimental setup, allowing measurements using slits of various sizes. Furthermore, we proposed a method for determining the focal spot size through linear fitting of multiple sets of slit dimensions and projected widths of the focal spot on the detector. This approach filters out random noise and errors during data collection, significantly enhancing measurement precision. By adjusting the slit and detector angles, we could measure the focal spot sizes at various angles and draw contour maps of the focal spot shape. This method was applied to measure the focal spot size and shape of a side‐window x‐ray tube under different voltage conditions. The overall measurement error was less than 6%, reflecting the reliability, accuracy, and consistency of the results obtained using the proposed method. Thus, the proposed method supports the inspection, verification, and maintenance of x‐ray sources.

Mn–CeOx catalyst for the simultaneous removal of NOx, C6H6, and C7H8 at low temperatures: Experimental and DFT study

Coal-fired power plants are known for emitting substantial amounts of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during operation. In this study, the utilization of Mn–CeOx catalysts for the simultaneous removal of these pollutants was explored. The catalysts were synthesized through the co-precipitation technique, and their material structure and active sites were analyzed through XRD, TEM, NH3-TPD, XPS, and in-situ DRIFTs characterization methodologies. The DFT calculations indicated that VOCs and NOx were efficiently adsorbed and activated on the catalyst surface and then converted into less harmful substances (CO2, N2, and H2O). Additionally, the potential reaction pathways occurring on the catalyst surface were investigated. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Mn–CeOx catalyst in simultaneously reducing NOx and VOCs under low-temperature conditions was assessed. The experimental results validated the exceptional performance of the Mn–CeOx catalyst in eliminating both NOx and VOCs. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms governing the catalytic process were comprehensively investigated.

Enhancement the performance of MAPbI3 perovskite solar cells via germanium sulfide doping

In this study, we successfully doped Germanium sulfide (GeS) particles in methylammonium lead triiodide (CH3NH3PbI3) films to create highly efficient inverted perovskite solar cells (PSC). Various characterization methodologies were employed to examine the impact of GeS on the morphological, structural, and compositional properties of the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite. The X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy analyses of the synthesized products demonstrated that the crystallinity was enhanced, and tetragonal perovskite structures were generated without any impurities when GeS was used at a high concentration. The surface morphology results indicated that the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite possessed thin coatings with compact, uniform, and smooth surfaces, with large grain size. The production of a high-quality CH3NH3PbI3 film from the CH3NH3PbI3: GeS phase results in improved carrier lifetime, decreased charge-trap density, and nonradiative recombination of the perovskite films. Band gap was observed to be correlated with grain size and crystallinity, which was accompanied by an increase in GeS concentration. We attained a maximum conversion efficiency of 17.46 % by fabricating solar cells with the following structure: soda-lime glass FTO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3: GeS/spiro-oMeTAD/Au. Based on our findings, we believe that the doping of GeS is a promising method for improving the properties of perovskite solar cells that are based on CH3NH3PbI3 thin films.

Estimation and validation of elastic constants in fused filament fabrication 3D printing: From mesoscale to macroscale

Evaluating the mechanical properties of 3D-printed parts is a cumbersome task. This study poses an approach based on computational homogenization to estimate the elastic constants of fused filament fabrication 3D-printed parts. A whole methodology for characterization and experimental validation is necessary to improve finite element numerical models.Samples are characterized both mechanically and geometrically. To improve the characterization, novel algorithms based on micro-computed tomography images and image segmentation techniques are implemented. Thereafter, elastic constants are estimated, informed by the characterization results. The method’s effectiveness is assessed through a deep comparison, based on the digital image correlation technique, between different experimental samples and finite element models.Results show that the numerical estimation provided in this work is accurate enough to develop realistic finite element models, including anisotropy of the structures. However, defects and voids developed during 3D printing are an important source of error for these numerical models.This work provides an estimation and validation of elastic constants in 3D-printed parts, including geometrical characterization, numerical homogenization and experimental validation. The results of this work provide valuable information encompassing techniques to improve the characterization of 3D-printed parts, tendencies on elastic constants, and main sources of error

Damage localisation in fresh cement mortar observed via in situ (timelapse) X-ray μCT imaging

This paper presents the outcome of a study focused on the evolution of internal damage in fresh cement mortar over 25 h of hardening. In situ timelapse X-ray computed micro-tomography (μXCT) imaging method was used to detect internal damage and capture its evolution in cement mortar hardening. During μXCT scans, the temperature released during the cement hydration was measured, which provided insight into the internal damage evolution with a link to a hydration temperature rise. The measured temperature during cement mortar hardening was compared with an analytical model, which showed a relatively good agreement with the experimental data. Using 20 CT scans acquired throughout the observed cement mortar hardening, it was possible to obtain a quantified characterisation of the porous space. Additionally, the use of timelapse μXCT imaging over 25 h allowed for studying the crack growth inside the meso-structure including its volume and surface characterisation. The results provide valuable insights into cement mortar shrinkage and serve as a proof-of-concept methodology for future material characterisation.

An innovative approach to municipal solid waste characterization for waste-to-energy processes in Egypt

This study enhances municipal solid waste (MSW) characterization methodologies by introducing an innovative sampling approach that prioritizes organic content over traditional components like paper and cartons, particularly suited to developing countries like Egypt. This innovative method adapts the ASTM D5231 − 92 standard to capture the actual MSW profile in the Giza governorate, where this research was carried out. Focusing on organic waste, this approach ensures more relevant and accurate data for waste-to-energy (WtE) conversion processes. This research documents significant seasonal variability in waste composition, with organic content averaging 66 % in winter compared to 59 % in fall. The energy-rich fraction shows similar variability, with winter having an average of 28 % compared to fall's 30 %. Moreover, the calorific value is notably higher in winter at 10.3 MJ/kg, compared to 8.4 MJ/kg in fall. These variations are critical for optimizing energy recovery processes in WtE projects. The results from this case study contribute to the limited but growing body of knowledge on waste management in Egypt, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of adapting standard characterization methods to local conditions. The insights gained from this research fill a notable gap in the regional waste management literature and enhance the scientific understanding of how seasonal factors affect MSW properties, providing a robust framework for improving waste management practices in similar settings globally.

Microcapsule preparation process research and current status of oilfield application

AbstractTraditional tertiary oil recovery methods are fraught with challenges such as significant reagent adsorption, voluminous injection requirements, limited sweep efficiency, and inadequate intelligent targeting. These issues lead to suboptimal displacement of residual oil, resulting in the inability to mobilize substantial crude oil resources and thus yielding low recovery rates. Microcapsules—spherical particles with micron or nanometer scale diameters—have been extensively utilized across various sectors, including food storage, targeted drug encapsulation, and fragrance containment, owing to their distinct advantages in controlled release, isolation, and targeted delivery. These applications have successfully achieved industrialization and commercialization. In recent years, numerous researchers have explored the application of microcapsule preparation processes to diverse facets of oil extraction, with the aim of further enhancing oil recovery (EOR). This article elucidates the mechanism of action of microcapsules, their preparation methods (encompassing in situ polymerization, interfacial polymerization, spray drying, solvent evaporation, phase separation, and supercritical CO2‐assisted techniques), characterization and evaluation methodologies, among other aspects. It encapsulates the current status and principal challenges associated with the application of microcapsule preparation processes in oilfield development and probes the potential and pivotal research directions for their oilfield applications.

Design, Processing, Testing and Characterizing for Orthodontics Material of Palm-Fibres Based Bio-Nanocomposite

Current research is carried out for newly developed of Bio-CPNC biomaterial nanocomposite for dentistry applications. The developed Bio-CPNC is invented of clay-based polymer CPNC and palm-tree micro-fibers, where CPNC is composed by nanotechnology of HDPE and MMT nanoclay. The research contains the methodology of design, processing, testing and characterization mainly focusing on mechanical and fracture properties, microstructure morphology and testing of thermal effect changes due to surrounding temperature changes. The necessity for finding new biomaterials and new techniques for dental materials for restoration and orthodontics with high biocompatibility with human bones and tissue are the aim for developing this natural bio-nanocomposites to be instead of using ceramics and metals like titanium. The new developed bio-CPNC dental material have special mechanical, thermal and fracture properties to resist the effects of occlusal loads of mastication with sustainability without expecting bad effects with orofacial esthetics and normal lingual ability because it is green. It can be applied for different types of orthodontics like crowns, bridges and dental implants. The study included processing, design, testing and characterization of different properties. The testing included detailed fundamental experimental work for investigation of the changes of mechanical and fracture properties based on fracture mechanics science. The results and comparison are promising where they are showing large enhancement of the mechanical, fracture and thermal properties of Bio-CPNC in comparison to the polymer material which encourage the researchers, dentists, and dental-companies for extra research to stabilize these natural green Bio-CPNC nanocomposite for dental applications with reducing the cost where all materials components are available locally in comparison to use of conventional ceramics materials or expensive zirconia composites.

Carbon Nanodots: An Illuminating Paradigm in Production, Characterization, and Oncological Targeting Methodologies—A Review

Carbon Nanodots: An Illuminating Paradigm in Production, Characterization, and Oncological Targeting Methodologies—A Review

Standardization of Chemically Selective Atomic Force Microscopy for Metal Oxide Surfaces.

The structures of metal oxide surfaces and inherent defects are vital for a variety of applications in materials science and chemistry. While scanning probe microscopy can reveal atomic-scale details, elemental discrimination usually requires indirect assumptions and extensive theoretical modeling. Here, atomic force microscopy with O-terminated copper tips on a variety of sample systems demonstrates not only a clear and universal chemical contrast but also immediate access to the atomic configuration of defects. The chemically selective contrast is explained by purely electrostatic interactions between the negatively charged tip-apex and the strongly varying electrostatic potential of metal and oxygen sites. These results offer a standardized methodology for the direct characterization of even the most complex metal oxide surfaces, providing fundamental insight into atomic-scale processes in these material systems.