Physical Applications Research Articles

Applications of nuclear physics to energy: the INFN-E project of the National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN)

In this talk, the main issues in radioactive waste management worldwide will be briefly introduced, as well as the world roadmap towards nuclear fusion. Then, an overview of the activities of the INFN-E (INFN Energia) strategic project will be given, showing how INFN's skills on basic theoretical aspects and on the design, construction and use of accelerators and radiation detectors can be applied to specific projects for the characterization and monitoring of radioactive waste as a means to increase nuclear safety and in the context of advanced plants for the study of nuclear fusion.

Characterization of a 28 nm CMOS Technology for Analog Applications in High Energy Physics

Characterization of a 28 nm CMOS Technology for Analog Applications in High Energy Physics

A quintic B-spline technique for a system of Lane-Emden equations arising in theoretical physical applications

<abstract> <p>In the present study, we introduce a collocation approach utilizing quintic B-spline functions as bases for solving systems of Lane Emden equations which have various applications in theoretical physics and astrophysics. The method derives a solution for the provided system by converting it into a set of algebraic equations with unknown coefficients, which can be easily solved to determine these coefficients. Examining the convergence theory of the proposed method reveals that it yields a fourth-order convergent approximation. It is confirmed that the outcomes are consistent with the theoretical investigation. Tables and graphs illustrate the proficiency and consistency of the proposed method. Findings validate that the newly employed method is more accurate and effective than other approaches found in the literature. All calculations have been performed using Mathematica software.</p> </abstract>

Experimental observation of two-dimensional phase in compressed FeF2

Iron difluoride (FeF2) has attracted considerable attention for its physical characteristics and practical applications, and its compression behaviors usually play a key role in the in-depth understanding of this compound. Since its high-pressure crystal structure evolution determining a more profound comprehension remains disputable, we carried out extensive experiments to focus on the pressure-induced structural phase transitions of FeF2. Through in situ high-pressure synchrotron x-ray diffraction measurements, we not only confirmed a reported high-pressure orthorhombic Pbca phase at 11 GPa but also identified an interesting two-dimensional structure with hexagonal close packed symmetry (P-3m1) that appears above 25 GPa at room temperature. Furthermore, the spontaneous strain fitting and electronic transport measurements suggest that its ambient rutile-type structure (P42/mnm) evolves into an orthorhombic structure (Pnnm) through a second-order phase transition at 5 GPa. These experimental results elaborate on the pressure-induced phase transitions of FeF2 on the order of P42/mnm → Pnnm → Pbca → P-3m1, shedding light on a rare three-dimensional to two-dimensional configuration transition in difluorides.

A two-phase Stefan problem with power-type temperature-dependent thermal conductivity. Existence of a solution by two fixed points and numerical results

A one-dimensional two-phase Stefan problem for the melting of a semi-infinite material with a power-type temperature-dependent thermal conductivity was considered. The assumption of taking thermal parameters as functions of temperature found its basis in physical and industries applications, allowing for a more precise and realistic description of phase change processes. By imposing a Dirichlet condition at the fixed face, a theoretical and approximate study was developed. Through a similarity transformation, an equivalent ordinary differential problem was obtained from which an integral problem was deduced. The existence of at least one analytical solution was guaranteed by using the Banach fixed point theorem. Due the unavailability of an analytical solution, a heat balance integral method was applied, assuming a quadratic temperature profile in space, to simulate temperature variations and the location of the interface during the melting process. For constant thermal conductivity, results can be compared with the exact solution available in the literature to check the accuracy of the approximate method.

Strain engineering of Bi2OS2 ultrathin films: electronic and ferroelectric properties

The non-monotonous relationship of ferroelectric polarization with strain can be attributed to distinct atomic coordination environments in Bi2OS2, which is different from a nearly monotonous trend of ferroelectricity-stabilized energy.

Squeezing and evolution of single particle by frequency jumping in two-dimensional rotating harmonic

The control of microscopic particle behavior based on a specific external field has always been a research hotspot in the field of physics. Many studies have been exploring various methods to manipulate and control the behavior of particles at a microscopic level. In this work, we investigate the phenomenon of single-particle squeezing induced by frequency jumping in a two-dimensional rotating harmonic oscillator potential. Squeezing, as a quantum mechanical phenomenon, has attracted significant attention due to its potential applications in various fields. It refers to the reduction of fluctuations in certain physical quantities, allowing for more precise measurement results. Squeezing phenomena have been extensively studied in different physical systems, including optics, atomic physics, and solid-state physics. However, there have been few reports on the quantum state squeezing phenomenon induced by frequency jumping in a rotating harmonic oscillator potential. Therefore, our study aims to fill this gap and shed light on this intriguing phenomenon. To explore the squeezing phenomenon induced by frequency jumping, we focus on the fluctuations and squeezing of the single particle’s cyclotron radius coordinate and center-guided coordinate in the two-dimensional rotating harmonic oscillator potential. Through numerical simulations and theoretical analysis, we can understand the influence of frequency jumping on the degree of squeezing and reveal the underlying physical mechanism of squeezing evolution. In this work, we first investigate the influence of frequency jumping on the squeezing evolution of the cyclotron radius mode. By carefully selecting appropriate jumping moments, we analyze the influence of frequency jumping on the degree of squeezing. Our research results show that the degree of squeezing in the cyclotron radius coordinate remains unchanged at the jumping moment. However, we observe a stronger squeezing phenomenon in the subsequent evolution process. This indicates that frequency jumping plays a crucial role in squeezing evolution of the cyclotron radius mode. Furthermore, we focus on the squeezing evolution of the center-guided mode during frequency jumping. By selecting suitable parameters, we analyze the squeezing and evolution of two squeezing modes: the divergent mode and the oscillatory mode. Interestingly, we discover the existence of a critical potential trap aspect ratio, which is determined by the rotation angular velocity of the external potential. When the aspect ratio approaches this critical value, the squeezing mode undergoes a transition, and a significant squeezing phenomenon appears in the oscillatory mode. This finding provides valuable insights into the origin and control of squeezing phenomena. Finally, we discuss the potential applications of these squeezing phenomena. Squeezing has significant implications in the fields of quantum sensing and quantum information processing. Through a deeper understanding of the squeezing evolution process caused by frequency jump, we can better control the microscopic particle behavior through external field. This knowledge opens up new possibilities for future physical research and technical applications.

Recent Progress in Wearable Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Advanced Health Monitoring and Rehabilitation

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have become a vital technology in physical health monitoring and rehabilitation applications, enabling continuous, personalized, and convenient monitoring, facilitating early detection and prevention, and offering valuable data‐driven insights. On‐body wearable triboelectric sensors enable real‐time tracking of vital health parameters, promoting accurate and personalized healthcare interventions. In addition to being self‐powered, these sensors facilitate early detection and prevention by capturing early warning signs of potential health issues, leading to timely interventions. Furthermore, they play a vital role in rehabilitation monitoring and feedback, helping to assess progress during the recovery process. This continuous monitoring, along with artificial intelligence, provides data‐driven insights into patterns, trends, and correlations, facilitating evidence‐based healthcare decision‐making. In this review, we provide an overview of the recent wearable TENG developments for healthcare applications. We discuss how TENGs work and explore a wide range of self‐powered health monitoring and rehabilitation applications. We then summarize recent advancements in healthcare applications, material selection, and unique features to help design highly efficient, accurate, and practical bioapplicable technology. Further, we discuss the challenges and prospects of the TENGs technology for healthcare applications, including miniaturization, moisture resistance, device maintenance, data reliability, and high outpower requirements.

Mechanical properties, surface treatments, and applications of jute fiber reinforced composites—A review

AbstractThe rise in environmental concerns and pollution is largely to blame for the popularity of jute and its hybrid composites. Jute fibers are inexpensive, plentiful, and have acceptable mechanical characteristics such as tensile, flexural, and impact strength, along with a moderate to high tensile modulus. Environmental worries about the risks of composites made with synthetic fibers have caused an exponential growth in research into all‐natural fibers and materials. Many applications have made heavy use of jute and its hybrid composites. Hybrid jute‐based composites offer improved mechanical and physical characteristics that are marginally superior to jute fiber composites. This review includes a thorough examination of composites made of jute fiber. The main objective of this review article is to offer a critical analysis and highlight all recent advancements in jute‐based composites. The information in the article covers a variety of jute‐based composites topics, such as their chemical composition, surface treatments, mechanical and physical properties, applications, and hybrid jute‐based composites.

An overview of critical applications of resistive random access memory.

The rapid advancement of new technologies has resulted in a surge of data, while conventional computers are nearing their computational limits. The prevalent von Neumann architecture, where processing and storage units operate independently, faces challenges such as data migration through buses, leading to decreased computing speed and increased energy loss. Ongoing research aims to enhance computing capabilities through the development of innovative chips and the adoption of new system architectures. One noteworthy advancement is Resistive Random Access Memory (RRAM), an emerging memory technology. RRAM can alter its resistance through electrical signals at both ends, retaining its state even after power-down. This technology holds promise in various areas, including logic computing, neural networks, brain-like computing, and integrated technologies combining sensing, storage, and computing. These cutting-edge technologies offer the potential to overcome the performance limitations of traditional architectures, significantly boosting computing power. This discussion explores the physical mechanisms, device structure, performance characteristics, and applications of RRAM devices. Additionally, we delve into the potential future adoption of these technologies at an industrial scale, along with prospects and upcoming research directions.

Analysis of quantum systems under quantum resonance: Introduction of new physical magnitudes and applications of quantum sensors

Analysis of quantum systems under quantum resonance: Introduction of new physical magnitudes and applications of quantum sensors

GaN based DC-DC converters for high energy physics applications

This paper introduces a prototype of a GaN-FET based 200 W DC-DC converter. Its design has been carried out to evaluate power density (or power dissipation and volume) and ensure minimal electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues that are commonly associated with the high switching frequency converters. To achieve this ANSYS HFSS-SiWave models have been developed to assess noise emissions based on the parasitic elements of PCB layout. Prototypes performance have been evaluated through extensive testing. This work offers insight into the potential of this technology in future physics detectors.

A mathematical fractional model of waves on Shallow water surfaces: The Korteweg-de Vries equation

<abstract><p>The homotopy perturbation transform method was examined in the present research to address the nonlinear time-fractional Korteweg-de Vries equations using a nonsingular kernel fractional derivative that Caputo-Fabrizio recently developed. We devoted our research to the nonlinear time-fractional Korteweg-de Vries equation and certain associated phenomena because of some physical applications of this equation. The results are significant and necessary for illuminating a range of physical processes. This paper considered an innovative method and fractional operator in this context to obtain satisfactory approximations to the provided issues. To solve nonlinear time-fractional Korteweg-de Vries equations, we first considered the Yang transform of the Caputo-Fabrizio fractional derivative. In order to confirm the applicability and efficacy of the provided method, we took into consideration two cases of the nonlinear time-fractional Korteweg-de Vries equation. He's polynomials were useful in order to manage nonlinear terms. In this method, the outcome was calculated as a convergent series, and it was demonstrated that the homotopy perturbation transform method solutions converge to the exact solutions. The main benefit of the suggested method was that it offered solutions with a high degree of precision while requiring minimal computation. Graphs were also used to illustrate the series solution for a certain non-integer orders. Finally, a comparison of both examples outcomes were examined using diagrams and numerical data. These graphs showed how the approximated solution's graph and the precise solution's graph eventually converged as the non-integer order gets closer to integer order. When $ \varsigma = 1 $, several numerical comparisons were conducted with the exact solutions. The numerical simulation was offered to illustrate the efficiency and reliability of the proposed approach. In addition, the behavior of the provided solutions was explained using a number of fractional orders. The theoretical analysis matched with the findings obtained using the current technique, and the suggested technique can be extended to tackle many higher-order nonlinear dynamics problems.</p></abstract>

Evaluation of a compact electron preinjector using a low beta (β) acceptance X-band accelerating structure

At the University of Melbourne X-LAB we are investigating the use of a low β acceptance X-band accelerating structure as part of the design of an all X-band RF electron preinjector optimised for the production of low emittance electron bunches for medical physics applications and compact light source development.In this work we will elaborate on the estimated performance, design issues, and optimisation methodology of the preinjector beamline.

Electron plasma diagnostics in ELTRAP by electron cyclotron resonance heating method.

Electron cyclotron resonance heating method of Particle-in-Cell code was used to analyze heating phenomena, axial kinetic energy, and self-consistent electric field of confined electron plasma in ELTRAP device by hydrogen and helium background gases. The electromagnetic simulations were performed at a constant power of 3.8 V for different RF drives (0.5 GHz- 8 GHz), as well as for 1 GHz constant frequency at these varying amplitudes (1 V-3.8 V). The impacts of axial and radial temperatures were found maximum at 1.8 V and 5 GHz as compared to other amplitudes and frequencies for both background gases. These effects are higher at varying radio frequencies due to more ionization and secondary electrons production and maximum recorded radial temperature for hydrogen background gas was 170.41 eV. The axial kinetic energy impacts were found more effective in the outer radial part (between 0.03 and 0.04 meters) of the ELTRAP device due to applied VRF through C8 electrode. The self-consistent electric field was found higher for helium background gas at 5 GHz RF than other amplitudes and radio frequencies. The excitation and ionization rates were found to be higher along the radial direction (r-axis) than the axial direction (z-axis) in helium background gas as compared to hydrogen background gas. The current studies are advantageous for nuclear physics applications, beam physics, microelectronics, coherent radiation devices and also in magnetrons.

Design and development of Low Gain Avalanche Detectors using Teledyne e2v process

The Low Gain Avalanche Detectors (LGAD) has become the preferred technological choice for fast track timing detectors in High Energy Physics applications. Additional uses of such sensors are currently being investigated, ranging from Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) to Low Let particle dosimetry in medical and space applications. This paper describes the development and test of LGAD devices, fabricated using a commercial process from Teledyne e2v silicon foundry. Motivation behind the project, and details of the TCAD simulations of the manufacturing process and of the electrical performances of the devices will be provided. Test results on gain and time resolution using laser injection will also be shown.

A dimensions aware evaluator for High Energy Physics applications

A dimensions aware evaluator for High Energy Physics applications

Tunable valence state and scintillation performance of dense Ce3+-doped borosilicate glasses prepared in ambient atmosphere

Tunable valence state and scintillation properties from Ce-doped gadolinium aluminoborosilicate glass scintillators for high-energy physics applications.

Fast, high-quality pseudo random number generators for heterogeneous computing

Random number generation is key to many applications in a wide variety of disciplines. Depending on the application, the quality of the random numbers from a particular generator can directly impact both computational performance and critically the outcome of the calculation. High-energy physics applications use Monte Carlo simulations and machine learning widely, which both require high-quality random numbers. In recent years, to meet increasing performance requirements, many high-energy physics workloads leverage GPU acceleration. While on a CPU, there exist a wide variety of generators with different performance and quality characteristics, the same cannot be stated for GPU and FPGA accelerators. On GPUs, the most common implementation is provided by cuRAND - an NVIDIA library that is not open source or peer reviewed by the scientific community. The highest-quality generator implemented in cuRAND is a version of the Mersenne Twister. Given the availability of better and faster random number generators, high-energy physics moved away from Mersenne Twister several years ago and nowadays MIXMAX is the standard generator in Geant4 via CLHEP. The MIXMAX original design supports parallel streams with a seeding algorithm that makes it especially suited for GPU and FPGA where extreme parallelism is a key factor. In this study we implement the MIXMAX generator on both architectures and analyze its suitability and applicability for accelerator implementations. We evaluated the results against “Mersenne Twister for a Graphic Processor” (MTGP32) on GPUs which resulted in 5, 13 and 14 times higher throughput when a 240, 17 and 8 sized vector space was used respectively. The MIXMAX generator coded in VHDL and implemented on Xilinx Ultrascale+ FPGAs, requires 50% fewer total Look Up Tables (LUTs) compared to a 32-bit Mersenne Twister (MT-19337), or 75% fewer LUTs per output bit. In summary, the state-of-the art MIXMAX pseudo random number generator has been implemented on GPU and FPGA platforms and the performance benchmarked.

High Energy Physics Applications on Fiber Optic Sensors in Relative Humidity

Our multidisciplinary research group has been conducting studies in recent years on the use of fiber grating-based sensors for relative humidity measurement in the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) instrument at CERN in Geneva. In order to monitor low relative humidity (RH) values even in cold temperatures, our multidisciplinary research group has been working to develop near-field fibre optic sensors based on tin dioxide particle layers, in light of the extensive research conducted in the past few years to evaluate the radiation hardness capability of fibre optic technology in high-energy physics settings. Compared to other sensor types, optical fiber sensors provide several advantages. These benefits mostly stem from the characteristics of optical fibers, which include their tiny size, inexpensive, electromagnetic passivity, resistance to high pressure, and resistance to high temperatures. Sensing is the process of measuring variables like temperatures, stress, or angular velocity by examining the characteristics of light. To evaluate the sensors' performance under the circumstances needed for CERN experiments, untried tests in the [0-65] %RH range at various temperatures were conducted. There were other campaigns of progressive irradiation using γ-ionizing radiations. The results obtained show that the suggested technologies have great potential for usage in High Energy Physics (HEP) activities as a reliable and acceptable replacement for commercial hygrometers in the future.