Physical Layer Properties Research Articles

Atomic-scale insights into the microstructure and interface evolution mechanism of copper/tantalum nanofilms during ultra-precision grinding

The copper (Cu)/tantalum (Ta) nanofilms are the vital component in the through silicon via (TSV) wafer. However, the current lack of research on the ultra-precision machining of Cu/Ta nanofilms limits the development of TSV-based 3D integration technologies. In this work, molecular dynamics simulations are conducted to reveal the microstructure and interface evolution mechanism of Cu/Ta nanofilms during nano-grinding under various grinding depths. The results show that the material removal mode differs between the Cu and Ta layers, and the thickness of the subsurface damage layer of the Cu layer is greater than that of the Ta layer. The Cu/Ta interface is well stabilized, and small amounts of micro-defects appear only at larger grinding depths after grinding. The lattice mismatch of the constituent layers and the hindering role by the interface lead to stress concentration at the interface, and it is more obvious with increasing grinding depth. Nevertheless, there is a significant stress release after grinding. Our computations indicate that the competition between the evolution of interfacial structures and discrepancies in the physical properties of constituent layers leads to an increase in grinding forces at the interface. Furthermore, the heat transfer is obstructed by the Cu/Ta interface. This study provides valuable insights into the grinding mechanisms of Cu/Ta nanofilms, which is conducive to further improving the manufacturing process of the TSV wafer and enhancing the performance of microelectronic devices.

B-090 Efficient Hydrophilic Surface Coating with Low Concentrations of Bovine Gamma Globulins

Abstract Background Bovine Gamma Globulin (BGG) is a high purity immunoglobulin fraction of bovine serum. BGG is used as a blocker to prevent non-specific binding in immunoassays and, due to the mixture of immunoglobulins, its blocking capabilities differ from traditional blockers like Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA). Our objective was to evaluate the adsorption characteristics of BGG to In vitro diagnostic relevant hydrophilic surfaces compared to BSA. A bead-based immunoassay was utilized to quantify the mass of protein coating a bead surface and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to analyze physical properties of the protein-surface layer. Methods The mass of BGG bound to hydrophilic beads (Dynabeads M-270 Carboxylic Acid) was determined across varying concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer. Coated beads were heated in 1x SDS loading dye to dissociate bound protein, then ran on a nonreducing SDS-PAGE gel. The total protein was measured using densitometry against a standard curve, using ImageJ, and analyzed with GraphPad Prism. This methodology was also used for BSA. AFM was used to image a topographical view of BGG binding to a silica surface. Samples were prepared at concentrations from 0.1% to 1.0% in phosphate buffer at pH 7.0. Followed by a series of washes to remove non-bound molecules, the surface was allowed to dry, then scratched with an AFM cantilever. The surface was then analyzed for roughness and thickness of BGG adsorption for each concentration. Results BGG and BSA have notable differences in their coating properties at a concentration of 1.0%. In the bead assay, the protein-surface binding is enhanced ∼4.8-fold for BGG compared to BSA. Interestingly, even at 0.1% BGG bound ∼0.8-fold more than BSA at 1.0%. Despite a 6-fold increase in mass bound to the bead surface with 1.0% BGG compared to 0.1%, AFM revealed a 1.3-fold and 1.8-fold decrease in height and roughness at the lower concentration, while maintaining effective coating. These results suggest that higher BGG concentrations result in thicker, rougher surface coating. This could lead to steric hindrance and obstruction of binding sites, affecting assay performance. Therefore, a lower concentration of BGG may lead to better surface coating and prevent reduced sensitivity and accuracy within immunoassays. Conclusions The bead binding assay demonstrates that BGG displays surface adsorption with comparable or improved results with lower concentrations compared to BSA. At 0.1%, BGG exhibits effective binding to a hydrophilic surface equivalent to that achieved by BSA at 1.0%. Additionally, AFM data suggest that even at 0.1%, BGG effectively coats the silica surface and potentially reduces steric hinderance compared to BGG at 1%. While BSA remains a reliable choice for many applications, our findings suggest that BGG can be an effective blocker for immunoassay applications. The choice of a suitable blocker varies depending on factors such as assay high background, sensitivity, and specificity. By tailoring the choice of blocker to the specific requirements of the assay, researchers can optimize assay performance by improving the accuracy and the reliability of the assay.

Impact of Annealing in Various Atmospheres on Characteristics of Tin-Doped Indium Oxide Layers towards Thermoelectric Applications.

The aim of this work was to investigate the possibility of modifying the physical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) layers by annealing them in different atmospheres and temperatures. Samples were annealed in vacuum, air, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and a mixture of nitrogen with hydrogen (NHM) at temperatures from 200 °C to 400 °C. Annealing impact on the crystal structure, optical, electrical, thermal and thermoelectric properties was examined. It has been found from XRD measurements that for samples annealed in air, nitrogen and NHM at 400 °C, the In2O3/In4Sn3O12 share ratio decreased, resulting in a significant increase of the In4Sn3O12 phase. The annealing at the highest temperature in air and nitrogen resulted in larger grains and the mean grain size increase, while vacuum, NHM and carbon dioxide atmospheres caused the decrease in the mean grain size. The post-processing in vacuum and oxidizing atmospheres effected in a drop in optical bandgap and poor electrical properties. The carbon dioxide seems to be an optimal atmosphere to obtain good TE generator parameters-high ZT. The general conclusion is that annealing in different atmospheres allows for controlled changes in the structure and physical properties of ITO layers.

Experimental study on comprehensive detection technology of shallow gas in deep soft soil layer

This study focuses on the underground shallow gas detection project in the Lingkun Island area of the northern entrance tunnel of the Wenzhou City Light Rail S2 line. Based on geological exploration data of shallow gas, we chose the technique of controlled-release gas with static pressure as the experimental foundation, integrating various technologies such as multi-functional in-situ probing, electrical methods, and seismic waves, comprehensively researching shallow gas detection technology in the Lingkun Island area. We conducted field probing experiments to accurately obtain the physical and mechanical properties of gas-rich soil layers and further studied the possibility of determining gas-rich locations. By applying parallel electrical methods, we can accurately identify and distinguish areas of anomalous resistivity in shallow geological structures. Based on abnormal changes in acoustic impedance in strata, we used seismic wave methods, including seismic CT and seismic wave scattering technology, to accurately reveal the presence and depth of shallow gas, providing reliable basis for accurate determination of shallow gas. Finally, we summarized a comprehensive plan for underground shallow gas detection technology, covering on-site data collection, data processing, and image interpretation of results, which will provide valuable references for future shallow gas exploration in relevant areas.

Improving CZTS/ZTO solar cell efficiency with inorganic BSF layers

Copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) thin-film solar cells have garnered significant attention in the solar energy sector. This study aims to enhance the performance of CZTS solar cells by replacing the conventional, toxic CdS buffer layer with Zn1−xSnxO (ZTO) for x = 0.2. Utilizing the one-dimensional solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D) and informed by experimental data on the physical properties of the solar cell layers, we investigated the effects of thickness, doping density, and defect density of the CZTS absorber layer on the cell’s performance. Initially, an efficiency of 14.76% was achieved. To improve this efficiency, an inorganic back surface field (BSF) layer was incorporated to mitigate charge carrier recombination at the absorber/back contact metal interface. Various materials, including CuO, Cu2O , Mo S2 and Mo Se2 , were evaluated as potential BSF layers. Comparative analysis indicated that the inclusion of the BSF layer significantly enhances the solar cell efficiency, achieving up to 27% with Cu2O as the BSF material. Furthermore, the study included an analysis of temperature effects and parasitic resistances to comprehensively assess the solar cell’s performance.

Molecular dynamics study on hydration characteristics of expansive clay minerals by temperature and inorganic salts

Most strata rock minerals have hydrophilic characteristics and the mineral surface is negatively charged. It can adsorb water molecules to form hydration layers on the mineral surface. The existence of hydration layer will reduce the effective pore diameter of rock pore microchannel. Thus, the development efficiency of crude oil is affected. Hydration layer compared to free water, water molecules are arranged in a highly ordered manner, with higher density and more stable toughness. Therefore, it is very important to study the structure of hydration layer adsorbed on rock wall and its influencing factors. Four different rock and mineral types are selected in this paper: Na-montmorillonite, quartz, kaolinite, calcite. Molecular dynamics method was used to simulate different temperature conditions and adding different inorganic salts. Study the influence of temperature and inorganic salts on the hydration layer structure of rock wall. The simulation results show that the increase of temperature and the addition of inorganic salts of different components have a great influence on the adsorption of water molecules on the rock wall, and it changes the original structure of the hydration layer. The adsorption of water molecules on different rock surfaces and the effect of different rock walls on the adsorption of hydration layer are described in molecular form. This study explains the mechanism of temperature and inorganic salts inhibiting water molecules from a microscopic perspective. It is of great significance to study the physical properties of hydration layer. It provides a theoretical basis for the field well wall stability research.

Drug release and physical properties of double layers coated contact lenses using natural polymers

Drug release and physical properties of double layers coated contact lenses using natural polymers

Pre-Support Method for Horizontal Overlapping Jet Grouting Columns for Very-Large Cross-Section Tunnels in Dry Silty Sand Strata: A Case Study

The Shangbai Tunnel on the Daxi Passenger Dedicated Line passes through unsaturated dry silty sand strata which is prone to sand leakage and gushing after disturbance, posing a significant threat to the safety and progress of construction work. Using the Shangbai Tunnel project as a case study, we conduct laboratory experiments to determine the physical and mechanical properties of dry silty sand layers and analyze the limitations of advanced large pipe shed pre-support and small pipe grouting pre-support structures. The objective is to evaluate the feasibility and reveal the mechanism of horizontal rotary jet grouting for column formation and pre-support. The physical and mechanical properties of the consolidated body of the overlapping columns are evaluated. Three pre-reinforcement schemes using overlapping columns for tunnels crossing different subsurface profiles are proposed. Experiments are conducted to assess the physical and mechanical properties of the overlapping columns, and on-site monitoring and analysis of the tunnel arch settlement and stress changes are performed. The results indicate that the proposed method for creating overlapping columns ensures the stability of the working face, controls arch settlement, and is cost-effective. Our study summarizes the findings from the data and information for the construction of similar projects.

Buttress wall in limiting wall deformation caused by deep excavation: A case study for colluvial soil in Vietnam

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of utilizing a BW (Buttress wall) to control the deflection of a diaphragm wall in colluvial soil conditions in Vietnam. The physical and mechanical properties of the colluvial layers are evaluated using data closely monitored during a specific project, serving as validation for 3D numerical simulations utilizing the Hardening Soil Model. The analysis results closely match the field monitoring data, which has tested the accuracy of the simulation model. This forms the basis for further investigations into the dimensional parameters of BW walls, including length, thickness, and spacing between them. The results obtained from the parametric study demonstrate that altering the wall length and spacing between BWwalls significantly limits the deflection of the diaphragm wall, while changes in thickness have a negligible effect. Through the 3D numerical simulations, a linear relationship between the maximum wall deflection and parameters such as wall length and spacing between BW walls has been established.

Investigation of physical and electrical properties of a suboxide layer at Si/Si-hexafluoride interface

The silicon suboxide SiOx (x < 2.0) offers promising industrial application possibilities ranging from electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, which are used widely in electrical vehicles and portable devices to sensing applications. Therefore, a low cost, environmental friendly and high performance silicon oxide materials are required for an appropriate operation of any electronic gadget. In this work, we report on the physical and electrical properties of a suboxide layer of up to 1 μm, which was grown on silicon during the formation of a dielectric layer, namely the ammonium silicon hexafluoride. It is a stable oxide exhibiting light emission from 400 to 1700 nm offering scalable and cost-effective large area processing capability. The measurement results reveal interesting properties, which are required to be understood clearly before proceeding with any suitable application. The results have been analyzed using state-of-the-art physical and electrical characterization techniques such as ellipsometry, AFM, SEM, FTIR, photoluminescence lifetime and resistive switching measurements to determine structural, optical and electrical properties. At 300 K the carrier lifetime measurements reveal the lifetime values ranging from about few tens of picosecond up to 4500 picoseconds. Scanning probe analysis indicate a surface roughness of about 30 Å. Resistive memory forming was observed also in these layers at relatively low power thresholds. We provide a comprehensive description of the physical and electrical properties in order to clarify the origin of the observed features. The wavelength dependent real ε1(ω)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\varepsilon }_{1}(\\omega )$$\\end{document} and the imaginary ε2ω\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\varepsilon }_{2}\\left(\\omega \\right)$$\\end{document} dielectric functions provided useful insights on optical properties. A lookout is given for the possible applications of this special SiOx dielectric oxide layer.

Numerical Investigation of the Irreversible Behavior of GDL Under Cyclic Hygrothermal Loading

Performances of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is impacted by the physical properties of the gas diffusion layer (GDL). These properties, including thickness and porosity, are irreversibly modified by diverse processes, notably by the clamping of the PEMFC or the swelling of the membrane during cell operation. This can result in irreversible deformation of the GDL, with consequent impact on the performance and durability of the PEMFCs. This phenomenon, which is difficult to apprehend experimentally, is also challenging to investigate numerically. An elastoplastic law related to the irreversible strain of the GDL after compression is proposed in this study and implemented in a finite element model. Variations in GDL’s properties during humidity and temperature cycles are studied depending on PEMFC clamping methods using numerical simulations. The influences of processing conditions, i.e. the membrane electrode assembly hot pressing process, on GDLs properties are also investigated numerically. The results demonstrate the necessity to take into account the evolution of the mechanical properties of PEMFC components, with a significant influence of clamping process, life load and hot pressing process on the physical properties of the GDL as thickness, porosity, or intrusion in the gas channels.

Study on the ablation process and failure mechanism of the buffer layer in high-voltage XLPE cable

In recent years, the frequent occurrence of ablation faults in the buffer layers of high-voltage cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cables has significantly undermined the stability of power grid operations. However, existing research cannot fully explain the failure mechanism and transformation of related physical and chemical properties of high-voltage cable buffer layer. To address this, the paper have constructed an integrated analysis framework that includes multiphysics field simulations, an equivalent electrical network model, and simulated ablation experiments to comprehensively reveal the complete ablation failure mechanisms. Firstly, this study conducted a comparative analysis of the voltage distribution and temperature changes in the buffer layer using electro-thermal coupling simulations and an equivalent electrical network model. This analysis provides a detailed study of the dynamic development process of buffer layer ablation and identifies key electrical parameters. Subsequently, it verified the accuracy of the simulations through experiments on temperature variation characteristics, changes in hydrogen content, and other gas concentrations by constructing a simulated buffer layer ablation experimental platform. Finally, based on the study of the mechanisms of the buffer layer ablation failure process, this study divided it into three stages: initial electrochemical corrosion, appearance of white powder, and the onset of ablation discharge in the buffer layer. The comparison of experimental results with simulation data from the first two stages further validated the effectiveness and robustness of our analysis framework. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the failure process in high-voltage cable buffer layers through simulation and experimental validation. This study provides a methodological basis for preventing cable ablation faults and detecting and evaluating the status of high-voltage XLPE cable buffer layers.

Design Optimization of Printed Multi-Layered Electroactive Actuators Used for Steerable Guidewire in Micro-Invasive Surgery.

To treat cardiovascular diseases (i.e., a major cause of mortality after cancers), endovascular-technique-based guidewire has been employed for intra-arterial navigation. To date, most commercially available guidewires (e.g., Terumo, Abbott, Cordis, etc.) are non-steerable, which is poorly suited to the human arterial system with numerous bifurcations and angulations. To reach a target artery, surgeons frequently opt for several tools (guidewires with different size integrated into angulated catheters) that might provoke arterial complications such as perforation or dissection. Steerable guidewires would, therefore, be of high interest to reduce surgical morbidity and mortality for patients as well as to simplify procedure for surgeons, thereby saving time and health costs. Regarding these reasons, our research involves the development of a smart steerable guidewire using electroactive polymer (EAP) capable of bending when subjected to an input voltage. The actuation performance of the developed device is assessed through the curvature behavior (i.e., the displacement and the angle of the bending) of a cantilever beam structure, consisting of single- or multi-stack EAP printed on a substrate. Compared to the single-stack architecture, the multi-stack gives rise to a significant increase in curvature, even when subjected to a moderate control voltage. As suggested by the design framework, the intrinsic physical properties (dielectric, electrical, and mechanical) of the EAP layer, together with the nature and thickness of all materials (EAP and substrate), do have strong effect on the bending response of the device. The analyses propose a comprehensive guideline to optimize the actuator performance based on an adequate selection of the relevant materials and geometric parameters. An analytical model together with a finite element model (FEM) are investigated to validate the experimental tests. Finally, the design guideline leads to an innovative structure (composed of a 10-stack active layer screen-printed on a thin substrate) capable of generating a large range of bending angle (up to 190°) under an acceptable input level of 550 V, which perfectly matches the standard of medical tools used for cardiovascular surgery.

Formation of ceramic coating on VAL10 aluminum alloy surface via laser modification in polysilicate solution

This article presents the results of an experimental study on the physical and mechanical properties of the surface layer of the VAL10 aluminum alloy after pulsed laser treatment, conducted in a bath with an aqueous solution of polysilicates (PS) at various concentrations. Ceramic coatings were produced on specimens measuring 10×10×3 mm. The laser processing of aluminum alloy specimens was carried out using an Nd:YAG laser. The study demonstrates that the quality of the resulting surface and its properties can vary depending on the laser exposure parameters, the concentration of the polysilicate solution, and the overall processing technique. The scattering of radiation by the PS solution layer leads to a significant reduction in surface roughness. In specimens processed in ambient air, the crater sizes on the surface exceeded 400 μm, while for specimens processed in a PS solution, they did not exceed 100 μm. A comparative analysis of the impact of solution concentration on elemental composition was performed. The study also included an investigation of friction characteristics and the measurement of microhardness of the modified surface. The research revealed that surface hardening processes occur as a result of the treatment, associated with the filling of recesses with high-strength oxides. This enabled the creation of a mixture containing silicon carbide and aluminum oxide in the surface layer of the specimens. Furthermore, wear tests of the modified surface were conducted using a “ball–specimen” tribological coupling. Specimens subjected to laser irradiation in a PS solution demonstrated increased wear resistance (a 40 % reduction in wear) and a 30 % decrease in the friction coefficient. Additionally, an increase in microhardness was observed.

Wear resistance of extruder parts in the production of polymer nanomodified products

Extrusion equipment is widely used in the production of polymer materials. One of the urgent questions that arises when studying the processes of obtaining polymer products by the extrusion method is the question of studying abrasive wear, which may depend on the efficiency of the equipment, the duration and reliability of its work. In the context of abrasive wear, the process that needs attention is the extrusion of polymer materials with carbon nanotubes. The purpose of this work is to develop a numerical method for determining the evolution of abrasive wear of the equipment of the extruder working area in the process of processing nanomodified polymer granules and determining the life cycle of this equipment with in order to increase the parameters of their durability. The specific objectives of the study include: 1) Determination of the influence of the content of CNTs in PVC on the rate of wear of the steel surface of the extruder; 2) Analysis of the dependence between friction and the content of CNTs in the polymer composite; 3) Establishing optimal extrusion conditions to minimize abrasive wear of the steel surface; 4) Comparison of simulation results with experimental data to check the reliability of the model. The work is aimed at understanding the processes that occur during the extrusion of nanocomposites and their impact on the wear resistance of equipment materials, which can contribute to the improvement of technological processes and ensure longer and more efficient operation of extruders in production conditions. It has been established that the processes of extrusion processing of polymer nanoreinforced composites can be effectively studied by developing and implementing numerical models that take into account the interaction of all physical and mechanical parameters of a representative volume of the contact zone of the equipment with the polymer and the nanotube with the adhesive layer. In this work, a model for determining the physical and mechanical properties of the interface layer between the CNT and the polymer array is constructed and implemented. The technique for determining the properties of the nanotube-polymer interface is integrated into the APROKS system for analyzing the stress-strain state of nanomodified polymer materials. Based on a multilayer isoparametric FE, a series of numerical experiments were carried out to simulate the process of abrasive wear of the material of equipment elements in the extruder working area. The possibility of a detailed study of the processes of nonlinear contact interaction of nanotubes with an interface layer with equipment elements of the extruder working area based on multilayer FE has been confirmed. Diagrams were obtained that determine the service life of equipment in the working area of the extruder depending on the volume concentration of carbon nanotubes in the polymer at different levels of operating pressure in the “nanotube – polymer – equipment” contact system. It is advisable to use the proposed methodology in the development of information support systems for the life cycle of operation of equipment in the working area of extruders intended for the production of nanomodified polymer products.

Temperature‐Dependent Operando Raman Analysis of a WO3‐Based Metal‐Oxide Gas Sensor Detecting Triacetone Triperoxide

In this work, the surface reactions of the homemade explosive triacetone triperoxide on tungsten oxide (WO3) sensor surfaces are studied to obtain detailed information about the chemical reactions taking place. Semiconductor gas sensors based on WO3 nanopowders are therefore produced and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. To analyze the reaction mechanisms at the sensor surface, the sensor is monitored online under operation conditions using Raman spectroscopy, which allows to identify the temperature‐dependent sensor reactions. By combining information from the Raman spectra with data on the changing resistivity of the underlying semiconductor, it is possible to establish a correlation between the adsorbed gas species and the physical properties of the WO3 layer. In the results, it is indicated that a Lewis acid–base reaction is the most likely mechanism for the increase in resistance observed at temperatures below 150 °C. In the results, at higher temperatures, the assumption of a radical mechanism that causes a decrease in resistance is supported.

Experimental research on bonding mechanical performance of the interface between cementitious layers

Abstract Interfaces of cementitious layers have widely existed in construction projects, and they are the weakest part of the whole building. In this article, laser scanning and ultrasonic pulse, splitting tensile, and semi-disc fracture tests were carried out to study the bonding performance of cementitious layers. Different performance metrics, such as splitting tensile bond strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and attenuation of first arrival, were used to evaluate the bonding characteristics of the concrete layers. The results revealed that the parameters of the interface curve decreased, and the mechanical properties of the interface became weaker with an increase of the interval time. The amplitude of the first wave was more sensitive to the presence of the interface than the ultrasonic pulse velocity. Finally, the relationships between the performance metrics were analyzed. The fracture toughness of model I and mode II was highly correlated with the parameters of the micromorphology of the layered concrete, and the correlation coefficient is not less than 0.9511. The fracture toughness of mode I was strongly related to the splitting tensile strength, with a correlation coefficient of not less than 0.9744. This study was useful for the future study of the mode I and I fracture performance, the morphology, and other physical properties of cementitious layers.

Silicone rubber thermal aging performance for cables and accessories

Polymer-based semiconductor materials are mainly used for cable body and cable accessories to ensure long-term stability of power cables. The physical and chemical properties of the semi-conductive shielding layer of the cable will change due to aging. The new silicone material has excellent insulation and mechanical properties and is widely used in cable accessories. In this paper, the insulation materials—silicon rubber is studied. First, the silicone rubber sample is prepared. Then, the mechanical and dielectric properties of the samples before and after aging are tested. The results show that thermal aging has a significant effect on the characteristic parameters of silicone rubber. With the increase of aging time, the hardness and elastic modulus of the silicone rubber sample gradually increased, while the tensile strength and elongation at break significantly decreased with the increase of aging time. With the increase of aging time, the thermal stability of the silicone rubber sample decreases, the cross-linking degree of the system increases, and the organic property decreases. The measurement and analysis of thermal aging characteristics of silicone rubber can help to reduce the failure frequency of cable accessories and improve the safety.

Site-Specific correlation between geotechnical and geoelectrical properties of soil deposits in India

The combined application of geotechnical and geophysical methods provides an effective means of subsurface exploration. The insufficient correlation between geotechnical and geophysical methods prevents the conversion of geophysical data to geotechnical information and vice versa. In the present study, a correlation has been proposed between the geotechnical and geoelectrical properties of two soil deposits in India. Eleven boreholes along with a Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and different laboratory tests have been conducted to obtain the different engineering and physical properties of the soil layers. Twelve Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) profiles have also been conducted to obtain the resistivity profile of the subsurface layers. The variation of the resistivity of the soil layers is analyzed and explained. Results show a strong linear correlation between resistivity and SPT blow counts (N′) of the soil layer for one site while a weak correlation for another site. A strong linear correlation between transverse resistivity (T) and N′ values has been observed for both sites. A comparison with the other existing correlation between resistivity/transverse resistivity and N′-values has also been presented. The range of resistivity values and engineering properties of soil layers are mentioned. The study is useful for the development of similar correlations and provides an approximate estimation of different geotechnical parameters for infrastructure design.

Design and performance evaluation of MoS2 photodetector in vertical MSM configuration

Flexible photodetectors based on transition metal dichalcogenides are gaining significant prominence due to their remarkable optical and electronic properties. This study presents an in-depth performance assessment of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) as the absorber layer within a vertical Au/MoS2/FTO metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) photodetector configuration. Utilizing one-dimensional solar cell capacitance simulation (SCAPS-1D) software, we conduct a comprehensive numerical investigation into the photodetector's performance. The systematic simulation of various physical properties of the MoS2 absorber layer, including thickness, doping, and bulk defect density, reveals optimized values of 1 μm, 1018 cm−3, and 1015 cm−3, respectively. The optimized device exhibits peak responsiveness under 700 nm wavelength spectrum illumination, boasting a responsivity of 0.37 AW−1 and a detectivity of 3.27 × 1014 Jones. Furthermore, the impact of temperature and incident light power on the optimized photodetector is thoroughly examined. The proposed photodetector demonstrates considerable potential for cost-effective, easily manufacturable, and durable wearable electronics applications.