Resistance Values Research Articles

Oxygen Vacancy Compensation-Induced Analog Resistive Switching in the SrFeO3-δ/Nb:SrTiO3 Epitaxial Heterojunction for Noise-Tolerant High-Precision Image Recognition.

Neuromorphic computing, inspired by the brain's architecture, promises to surpass the limitations of von Neumann computing. In this paradigm, synaptic devices play a crucial role, with resistive switching memory (memristors) emerging as promising candidates due to their low power consumption and scalability advantages. This study focuses on the development of metal/oxide-semiconductor heterojunctions, which offer several technological advantages and have broad potential for applications in artificial neural synapses. However, constructing high-quality epitaxial interfaces between metal and oxide semiconductors and designing modifiable contact barriers are challenging. Herein, we construct high-quality epitaxial metal/semiconductor interfaces based on the metallicity of the perovskite phase SrFeO3-δ (PV-SFO) and a small Schottky barrier in contact with Nb-doped SrTiO3 (NSTO). X-ray diffraction patterns, reciprocal space mapping results, and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy images reveal that the prepared PV-SFO film exhibits a perfect single-crystal structure and an excellent epitaxial interface with the NSTO (111) substrate. The corresponding memristor exhibits analog-type resistive-variable characteristics with an ON/OFF ratio of ∼1000, stable data retention after 10,000 s, and no noticeable fluctuation in resistance after 10,000 pulse cycles. Electron energy loss spectroscopy, first-principles calculations, and electrical measurements reveal that compensating or restoring oxygen vacancies at the NSTO surface decreases or increases the contact barrier between PV-SFO and NSTO, respectively, thereby gradually regulating the resistance value. Furthermore, high-quality epitaxial PV-SFO/NSTO devices achieve up to 98.21% recognition accuracy for handwriting recognition tasks using LeNet-5-based network structures and 92.21% accuracy for color images using visual geometry group (VGG) network structures. This work contributes to the advancement of interface-type memristors and provides valuable insights into enhancing synaptic functionality in neuromorphic computing systems.

Recombinant filaggrin-2 improves skin barrier function and attenuates ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation-induced epidermal barrier disruption

The integrity of the skin barrier is essential for maintaining skin health, with the stratum corneum and filaggrin 2 (FLG-2) playing a key role. FLG-2 deficiency or mutation has been linked to diseases such as atopic dermatitis, while external stressors such as ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation further damage the epidermal barrier. This study investigated the effects of recombinant filaggrin (rFLG) on skin barrier function and UVB induced epidermal destruction. Cell experiments showed that 10 μg/mL of rFLG could increase the mobility of HaCaT cells from 20 % to 42 %, increase the epithelial resistance (TEER) value by about 2 times, and up-regulate the tight junction associated protein by about 2 times. In mouse models of UVB-induced epidermal barrier destruction, rFLG at concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL showed effective cell uptake and skin penetration, alleviating erythema, and reducing skin thickness in mice by 1.5–3 times. Among them, 2 mg/mL of rFLG treatment restored the expression of tight junction proteins (LOR, ZO-1, and caspase-14), reduced collagen degradation, and reduced oxidative stress by normalizing serum hydroxyproline and superoxide dismutase levels. In addition, 2 mg/mL of rFLG inhibited UVB-induced upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3 and MMP-9) and reduced pro-inflammatory factors (IL-10, IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α) and apoptotic markers (P38, Bax, and Bcl-2) to normal levels. These findings suggested that rFLG effectively enhanced skin barrier integrity and mitigated UVB-induced epidermal barrier destruction, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for diseases associated with skin barrier dysfunction.

Delineation of subsurface features by electrical resistivity tomography and induced polarization in upstream basin of Chaq-Chaq dam – northeastern Iraq

The construction of dam is important for many reasons. Prior to construction, it is essential to assess the dam's base reservoir to identify any subsurface cavities. This study was conducted along nine electrical resistivity (ERT) profiles and eight induced polarization (IP) profiles, which are traditional ERT profiles, trending SW to NE direction in the reservoir part of the failed Chaq-Chaq dam NW of Sulaimaniyah city. The aim of this study was to delineate subsurface layers, underground features, determine the depth to bedrock, and investigate indications of the causes of collapse of the constructed Chaq-Chaq dam. The Res2Dinvx64 program used in the inversion method to obtain true 2D resistivity sections using a Schlumberger-Wenner array, which is highly sensitive to changes in resistivity both vertically and laterally. Based on the resistivity values, it was found that the area consists of three geological layers; the first layer consists of soil, while the second layer consists of rock fragments, the interface between them has disappeared because the first layer is thin, and the third layer is specified as consolidated and cohesive limestone of the Kometan Formation. The surface of the Kometan limestones is irregular due to weathering and faulting resulting from tectonic movements leading to the collapse of the area and later filled with sediments of recent deposition. The IP method was only used to distinguish clay and water. According to IP values, water is present in the subsurface of the study area. According to the ERT sections, a sinkhole with a depth range of (15 – 39 m) was encountered at the beginning of most of the profiles.

Mussel-inspired polydopamine (PDA)-grafted 2D-Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets tailored ZnAl-layered double hydroxides (LDH); Toward designing a smart self-healing epoxy composite coating

The constant challenge of corrosion significantly compromises the durability and functionality of metal substrates, propelling the demand for advanced protective solutions. This study introduces a novel smart epoxy coating system modified with a three-component nanocomposite integrating polydopamine (PDA)-modified Ti3C2 MXene with ZnAl-layered double hydroxides (LDH), intercalated with phosphate (P) and glutamate (Gl) ions as corrosion inhibitors. The innovative approach leverages the synergistic impacts of barrier protection, ion exchangeability, and self-healing capabilities to offer superior anti-corrosion performance. In the solution phase, the EIS results revealed a notable increase in resistance values, with MPLG samples exhibiting a 2.45-fold and MPLP samples a 2.17-fold enhancement compared to the blank specimen after 96 h of immersion. Furthermore, the data obtained from EIS demonstrated a significant enhancement in the barrier effects of the epoxy coating upon the addition of MPLG and MPLP. This enhancement was evidenced by a significant increase in the impedance values, which were observed to be 103-fold higher following a prolonged immersion period of 140 days. The self-healing properties, confirmed through EIS, FE-SEM, and EDX/Mapping analyses, indicated the formation of a stable corrosion-protective layer over the damaged areas, thus providing active protection. Adhesion assessments further underscored the coatings' durability, with MPLG and MPLP samples demonstrating minimal delamination. Collectively, these findings emphasize the potential of the proposed PDA-modified MXene@ZnAl-LDH nanocomposite as a multifaceted solution to corrosion challenges, promising significant advancements in the longevity and reliability of coated metal surfaces.

Interfacial Regulation of Rice-Grain-like Iron-Nickel Phosphide Nanorods on Phosphorus-Doped Graphene Architectures as Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting.

The design of bimetallic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with a hierarchical structure is important to improve the electrocatalytic performance of catalysts due to their synergistic effect on different metal ions. In this work, the catalyst comprises bimetallic iron-nickel MOF-derived FeNi phosphides, intricately integrated with phosphorus-doped reduced graphene oxide architectures (FeNi2P-C/P-rGA) through the hydrothermal and phosphating treatments. The hierarchical architecture of the catalyst is beneficial for exposing active sites and facilitating electron transfer. The FeNi2P-C/P-rGA catalyst exhibits excellent performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes. Notably, FeNi2P-C/P-rGA requires only the overpotential of 93 and 210 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm-2 for the HER and OER with small values of Tafel slope and charge transfer resistance, respectively. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibits boosted activity for overall water splitting with a low potential of 1.56 V. This work can be considered to extend the design of multilevel catalysts in the application of water splitting.

Does Breast Feeding Protect Mothers From Obesity?

Hepatosteatosis, which we frequently observe today with change in lifestyle, is often unnoticed, but preventable and reversible; if not prevented, it can lead to serious comorbidities. There is contradicting evidence in the literature; we believe that breastfeeding has a protective effect on hepatosteatosis. In this cross-sectional study we conducted, we aimed to examine the relationship between breastfeeding duration, metabolic parameters and fatty liver. We examined the data of 135 patients aged 20-40 years who have had at least one pregnancy and were admitted to our polyclinic. Forty-five healthcare staff who never breastfed were included in the control group. Measurements of height and weight were taken, and number of children and total breastfeeding time were questioned. Blood values were measured to calculate insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score and Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score. Consequently, there was no significant correlation between total breastfeeding time and body mass index (BMI), NAFLD fibrosis score, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) value and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C). When two groups were formed as patients breastfeeding for less than six months and patients breastfeeding for more than six months, a significant difference in BMI was observed between these two groups (p: 0.02). There was a significant relationship between BMI and NAFLD (p: 0.00) and HOMA-IR (p: 0.00). It was observed that there was a significant difference between BMI FIB-4 and NAFLD fibrosis scores of the control group and breastfed group. Lactation should be maintained for at least six months for maternal health together with the baby's health, and more comprehensive studies should be conducted for long-term data.

Study on the predictions of acoustic characteristics of microspeakers based on the specific airflow resistance of ventilation materials: Mesh type

In this study is presented a method for predicting the acoustic characteristics of microspeakers with mesh-type ventilation materials that combines specific airflow resistance with equivalent circuit model. The specific airflow resistances of eight types of ventilation materials were quantified using a self-made measurement system. These materials were then used to simulate the acoustic properties of 40 φ and 20 φ microspeakers, respectively. The results were compared with simulation results obtained using Dr. Maa’s porous plate acoustic impedance and actual measurements. After applying a stable correction factor, the self-made measurement system accurately determined specific airflow resistance values with high reproducibility and stability. A regression curve based on scanning electron microscope obtained porosity and measured specific airflow resistance effectively predicted the specific airflow resistance of materials with known porosity. Applying these values to acoustic simulations, the proposed method significantly improved accuracy, outperforming Dr. Maa’s method by a factor of six, and closely matched actual measurements. This innovative approach is versatile and applicable to various conditions and types of ventilation materials, as well as enhances predictions of their impact on electro-acoustic product performance.

NON-DESTRUCTIVE METHODS OF ESTABLISHING A CAUSE-AND-EFFECT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WATER SUPPLY NETWORK ACCIDENTS AND THE CONDITIONS FOR PRESERVING ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

Accidents on water supply networks have the most significant negative consequences on the state of the historical and architectural heritage, which was formed over many centuries. The paper analyzes the cause-and-effect relationship between accidents of water-carrying networks and the conditions of architectural heritage preservation using the example of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The results of determining waterlogging zones and their factors by non-destructive monitoring methods on the territory of the Metropolitan Garden of the Upper Lavra are given. This area combines complex engineering and geological conditions and technogenic mastering, creating conditions for developing dangerous engineering and geological processes and emergency situations. In terms of danger, the garden’s territory belongs to unstable areas for preserving historical monuments of the UNESCO world heritage. The last accident on the water supply networks occurred in October 2022. It caused sinkholes on the surface, rising groundwater levels, significant destruction of an underground structure of historical importance – the Metropolitan Cellar. The research was carried out using the methods of electrotomography and natural electric field. The results of electrotomography were interpreted using two- and three-dimensional models. The existence of an anomalous dome (soils of low resistance), which is observed in the central part of the site, is probably the focus of waterlogging of the soil massif as a result of an accident on the heating network. The analysis of the adapted 3D model based on the results of non-destructive methods of monitoring the geological environment made it possible to indirectly establish the places of unsatisfactory technical condition of engineering networks (cold water supply), where a wetted section with low values of apparent resistance was recorded. Research has confirmed the presence of an inflow of man-made waters (leaks) from main water supply networks in the western part of all profiles as a constant source and factor of waterlogging of the array of soil bases of architectural monuments – Monastyrski walls, Kushnyka tower, etc. Based on the research results, the need to develop compensatory measures to strengthen part of the fortress walls was proposed, and a safe distance for moving networks from historical objects was substantiated to preserve them.

A Straightforward Method to Estimate Battery's Condition Based on Its Internal Resistance Value

A battery condition monitor can be realized using several methods. Some of these methods have been proven to be more reliable than others. In this study, we focus on assessing a battery's condition based on its internal resistance value using a direct current method (DCM). We developed a simple, fast, and straightforward method, including the necessary equipment for this purpose. Only measurements of the battery's terminal (open-circuit) voltage and battery voltage under a certain load are required. We measured around 100 non-rechargeable AA batteries (double-A batteries) and estimated their internal resistances. Both alkaline and lithium-based batteries were tested. Our measurements show that measuring the terminal voltage (open-circuit voltage) alone does not provide an accurate enough status of a battery's condition or state-of-health, SoH. Especially when the battery condition is declining, the internal resistance value gives a better estimation of the battery's condition and usability.

Ceramic Nanotubes—Conducting Polymer Assemblies with Potential Application as Chemosensors for Breath Ammonia Detection in Chronic Kidney Disease

This paper describes the process of producing chemosensors based on hybrid nanostructures obtained from Al2O3, as well as ZnO ceramic nanotubes and the following conducting polymers: poly(3-hexylthiophene), polyaniline emeraldine-base (PANI-EB), and poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-polystyrene sulfonate. The process for creating ceramic nanotubes involves three steps: creating polymer fiber nets using poly(methyl methacrylate), depositing ceramic films onto the nanofiber nets using magnetron deposition, and heating the nanotubes to 600 °C to burn off the polymer support completely. The technology for obtaining hybrid nanostructures from ceramic nanotubes and conducting polymers is drop-casting. AFM analysis emphasized a higher roughness, mainly in the case of PANI-EB, for both nanotube types, with a much larger grain size dimension of over 5 μm. The values of the parameter Rku were close or slightly above 3, indicating, in all cases, the formation of layers predominantly characterized by peaks and not by depressions, with a Gaussian distribution. An ink-jet printer was used to generate chemiresistors from ceramic nanotubes and PANI-EB structures, and the metallization was made with commercial copper ink for printed electronics. Calibration curves were experimentally generated for both sensing structures across a wider range of NH3 concentrations in air, reaching up to 5 ppm. A 0.5 ppm detection limit was established. The curve for the ZnO:PANI-EB structure presented high linearity and lower resistance values. The sensor could be used in medical diagnosis for the analysis of breath ammonia and biomarkers for predicting CKD in stages higher than 1. The threshold value of 1 ppm represents a feasible value for the presented sensor, which can be defined as a simple, low-value and robust device for individual use, beneficial at the patient level.

Analysis of semiconductor properties of fabricated graphene materials

Introducing dopant elements into graphene is a crucial process for creating bandgaps, which will have significant importance in developing nanoelectronic devices in the future. In this study, we provide an analysis of the electrical and carrier mobility properties of graphene doped with BN in ratios of 1 %, 3 %, and 5 %, graphene 95 %, ZnO-3 %, and BN2 %, graphene-95 %, Al2O3-3 % and BN-2 %, graphene-95 %, TiO2-3 % and BN-2 % by using a sintering process. Upon analyzing the band structure, it was determined that the mentioned materials demonstrate a bandgap in graphene. The resistivity values for fabricated graphene materials doped with different nanoparticles are estimated using the Source-meter Unit (SMU) at room temperature (25°C), 100°C and 200°C. The conductivity of graphene is 8.93E+07 Ω−1cm−1 and reduced gradually with the doping percentages. The resistivity of graphene is measured at 1.12 E-08 Ω.cmand increases with the doping percentages, and carrier mobility is measured to be 9239 cm2V−1s−1 and gradually reduced with the doping percentages. The temperature-dependent conductivity is determined using electrical conductivity under the constant relaxation time approximation.

Non-enzymatic g-C3N4 supported CuO derived-biochar based electrochemical sensors for trace level detection of malathion

Malathion (MALA), a widely used insecticide, even at trace levels exhibits deleterious effects towards respiratory tracts, and nervous system, necessitating its detection. Herein, we have offered non-enzymatic trace level monitoring of MALA using g-C3N4 supported CuO-derived biochar. The present B-CuO/g-C3N4 based electrochemical sensor is synthesized using hydrothermal approach followed by calcination at high temperature. The result unveiled the strong <pi-pi> interactions, high charge separation efficiency, significant porosity leading to excellent electrochemically active surface area 9.88 × 10−5 cm2 with least charge transfer resistance (RCT) value of 35.2 K Ω. The B-CuO/g-C3N4 based nanocomposite offered excellent complex formation ability with MALA and square wave anodic stripping voltametric method (SWASV) generates an enhanced electrochemical signal due to oxidation of MALA. Following all necessary optimizations, the sensor was capable to exhibit limit of detection (LOD) value of 1.2 pg mL−1 with R2 = 0.968. The modified biosensor offered its potential towards detection of MALA in apple and tomato samples with a recovery ranging from 87.64 to 120.59%. This novel B-CuO/g-C3N4 ternary nanocomposite provides non-enzymatic detection of MALA having excellent electrochemical properties and hence opens new pathways for exploring the use of biochar in other electrochemical applications.

Non-invasive mass flow and local heat transfer coefficient measurements in pulsating heat pipes

A single loop Pulsating Heating Pipe (PHP) experimental setup was developed for non-invasive measurement of the local heat transfer coefficient and the mass flow along the PHP evaporator. These measurements are valuable to validate modeling tools used in the design of PHP. A two-step differential heat input method was used for measurement of mass flow and the results were compared with the optical and theoretical results. The conditions tested in the PHP were 50, 60 and 70% filling ratio, R134a as working fluid, internal diameter of 2 mm, saturation temperature of between 30 to 40 °C, inclination angles from 30 to 90° (vertical bottom heat mode) and heat loads on the evaporator from 10 up to 68 W. The results indicate a high performance in heat transfer of the PHP, with minimum internal thermal resistance values close to 0.008 K/W as well as local heat transfer coefficients greater than 10 kW/m2K for observed values of mass velocities between 60 and 140 kg/m2s. The results were compared with correlations from the literature and these were able to predict the results with a 20% average error margin, suggesting many similarities with convective boiling mechanisms.

Specific mode electroacupuncture stimulation opens the blood-brain barrier of the infarcted border zone in rats during MCAO/R recovery via modulation of tight junction protein expression by VEGFA and NF-κB.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) strictly limits the entry of most exogenous therapeutic drugs into the brain, which brings great challenges to the drug treatment of refractory central diseases, including the treatment of ischemic stroke. Our previous studies have shown that specific mode electroacupuncture stimulation (SMES) can temporarily open the BBB, but with the mechanisms largely unknown. This study explored whether SMES opens the BBB in the infarcted border zone of rats during middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion recovery, and whether this is related to p65 or vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) modulation of tight junction protein expression through in vivo and in vitro studies. Evans blue, FITC-dextran, mouse-derived nerve growth factor (NGF), and transendothelial electrical resistance values were used to evaluate the permeability of the BBB. Additionally, microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes were utilized for in vitro study. Immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, western blot, and ELISA were employed to assess related protein expression. SMES significantly increased vascular permeability for Evans blue and NGF in the infarcted border zone, and increased the expression of VEGFA by activating p-p65, thereby reducing the expression of tight junction proteins Occludin and ZO-1. Correspondingly, oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation activated p-p65 in and induced VEGFA secretion from astrocytes in vitro. Their conditioned medium reduced the expression of Occludin in bEnd.3 cells and increased the permeability of FITC-dextran. The mechanism of SMES opening infarcted border zone BBB is partly related to its actions on p65, VEGFA, and tight junction proteins.

Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Loading Conditions on the Change in Thin NiTi Wire Resistance during Cyclic Stretching.

This paper presents the results of an experimental study designed to evaluate the effect of repeated stretching cycles on the electrical resistance change in a NiTi alloy wire. In particular, tests were carried out to determine the effect of the type of loading on resistance change in the investigated wires. Wires with a diameter of 100 μm were used in the research. The experiment was carried out on a dedicated test stand designed for this purpose. During the test, the samples were subjected to 40 identical tensile cycles. The electrical resistance, sample elongation, and tensile force during successive stretching cycles were measured. The conducted research demonstrated the impact of elongation and reorientation of the structure on the resistance change in NiTi alloy thin wires. The research included a comparison of the effect of two different types of loading on the electrical resistance change in the sample. During cyclic stretching of a NiTi alloy sample with constant displacement, a decrease in electrical resistance was observed after each successive stretching cycle. Alternatively, when stretching with a constant force, the value of electrical resistance increased. In both types of loads, the greatest change in resistance value was observed at the initial cycles.

Effect of graphene on microstructure, strain hardening and corrosion behaviour of dual phase Mg-Li matrix processed through liquid metallurgy route

The significance of this study lies in the potential enhancement of magnesium (Mg)-based materials through the addition of graphene, aiming to improve their mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. This research investigates the development of graphene-Mg composites, employing a liquid metallurgy route to fabricate a dual-phase structured Mg-8Li composite. Mg-Li dual-phase composites are of interest due to their lightweight nature and promising mechanical properties, making them suitable for applications in aerospace, automotive, and structural engineering. Graphene was incorporated into the Mg matrix at varying percentages (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 wt.%), and the resulting materials were subjected to microstructural, mechanical, and corrosion analyses. Microstructural characterization results reveals that the increase in graphene content results in decrement in grain size of α-Mg and β-Li up to ∼33 and ∼11.5% respectively. Likewise, additions of graphene improvise tensile and yield strength of base matrix up to ∼47 and ∼44% respectively. Strain hardening exponent (n) values of base material decrease from 0.21 to 0.17 with respect to graphene addition which confirms the effect of graphene that acts as effective barrier to slip that decreases the deformation. Corrosion analysis revealed a decrease in corrosion rate and increased pitting resistance with the addition of graphene, indicating improved corrosion resistance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results depict that the composite with 0.4 wt.% graphene exhibits larger semi conducting loop with higher charge transfer resistance ( Rct) value of 128 Ω cm2.

Experiments on High-Temperature Irradiation of Li2ZrO3/MgLi2ZrO4 Ceramics by He2+ Ions

The key objective of this study is to determine the effect of interphase boundaries, the formation of which is caused by the variation of Li2ZrO3/MgLi2ZrO4 phases in lithium-containing ceramics based on lithium metazirconate, on the resistance to near-surface layer destruction processes associated with irradiation with He2+ ions. During the observation of the deformation effects that have an adverse impact on the volumetric swelling of the near-surface layers of ceramics, the thermal expansion factor caused by high-temperature irradiation was considered, simulating conditions as close as possible to the operating conditions of these materials as blankets for tritium propagation. During the studies conducted, it was established that an elevation in the contribution of MgLi2ZrO4 in the composition of ceramics leads to a rise in resistance to deformation swelling caused by structural distortions of the crystal lattice, due to a decrease in the effect of thermal expansion, alongside the presence of interphase boundaries. The established dependencies of the change in the hardness of the near-surface layer of the studied ceramics made it possible to establish the kinetics of softening caused by the deformation distortion of the crystalline structure, as well as to determine the relationship between volumetric swelling and softening (change in hardness) and a decrease in crack resistance (change in the value of resistance to single compression).

Geometric Characterization of the Mateur Plain in Northern Tunisia Using Vertical Electrical Sounding and Remote Sensing Techniques

The Mateur aquifer system in Northern Tunisia was examined using data from 19 water boreholes, 69 vertical electrical sounding (VES) stations, and a Sentinel-2 satellite image. Available boreholes and their corresponding logs were compared to define precisely the multi-layer aquifer system, including the Quaternary and Campanian aquifers of the Mateur plain. Quantitative interpretation and qualitative evaluation of VES data were conducted to define the geometry of these reservoirs. These interpretations were enhanced by remote sensing imagery processing, which enabled the identification of the Mateur plain’s superficial lineaments. Based on well log information, the lithological columns show that the Quaternary series in the Ras El Ain region contains a layer of clayey, pebbly, and gravelly limestone. Additionally, in the Oued El Tine area, a clayey lithological unit has been identified as a multi-layer aquifer. The study area, exhibiting apparent resistivity values ranging between 20 and 170 Ohm·m, appears to be rich in groundwater resources. The correlation between the lithological columns and the interpreted VES data, presented as geoelectrical cross-sections, revealed variations in depth (8–106 m), thickness (10 to 55 m), and resistivity (20–98 Ohm·m) of a coarse unit corresponding to the Mateur aquifer. Twenty-three superficial lineaments were extracted from the Sentinel-2 image. Their common superposition indicated that both of them are in a good coincidence; these could be the result of normal faults, creating an aquifer system divided into raised and sunken blocks.

Microstructural, dielectric, electrical, electromagnetic, and magnetic property enhancements in GdIG /TrIG/ Mn0.2Co0.3Zn0.5Fe2O4 ferrites composites for electronic devices application

Gadolinium garnet ferrite (GdIG) and terbium garnet ferrite (TrIG), known for their favourable magnetic and dielectric characteristics, were combined with doped zinc spinel ferrite (GdIG)x-(TrIG)y/Mn0.2Co0.3Zn0.5Fe2O4(1-x-y) (at x=1 y=0, x=0 y=1, x=y=0.5, x=y=0.25, x=y=0) to achieve improved permittivity, permeability and magnetic properties with reduced magneto-dielectric losses. Our study details the synthesis process and the resulting enhancements in structural, magnetic, and dielectric properties of the prepared samples. Analysis of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the presence of a crystalline structure characterized by both cubic spinel and cubic garnet phases in the composites. The microstructures of the composites were analysed with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), revealing the variation in a grain size from 0.11 μm to 0.96 μm at x =y=0.5. A thorough link between the crystal structure and XRD spectra, transmission electron microscope (TEM), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns have all been investigated in order to enhance the characterisation of the samples. At 1KHz, the composites exhibit highest electrical resistivity values of 5.9×106 Ωm and 2.6×106 Ωm. With the incorporation of spinel ferrites in garnet ferrite composite (x=y=0.25) the highest value of dielectric constant (885.2) and low value of dielectric loss (0.07) at 100 KHz has been obtained. Permeability values, derived from permittivity data, showed an increase in real permeability values of from 1.4×1012 to 9.2×1017 for x=y=0.5 to x=y=0.25 composite. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) further confirm that the composite x=y=0.25 has highest magnetic saturation (148.8 emu/g), coercivity (502 Oe) and microwave operating frequency (33.6 GHz). The observed high dielectric constant, low loss values, switching field distribution and good magnetic properties suggest the potential suitability of these samples for various electronic devices like: high frequency devices, antennas, switching devices and magnetic recording devices.

Floating photovoltaic systems: photovoltaic cable submersion testing and potential impacts.

Floating photovoltaics (FPV) is an emerging technology that is gaining attention worldwide. However, little information is still available on its possible impacts in the aquatic ecosystems, as well as on the durability of its components. Therefore, this work intends to provide a contribution to this field, analysing possible obstacles that can compromise the performance of this technology, adding to an increase of its reliability and assessing possible impacts.The problem under study is related to the potential submersion of photovoltaic cables, that can lead to a degradation of its electrical insulation capabilities and, consequently, higher energy production losses and water contamination. In the present study, the submersion of photovoltaic cables (with two different insulation materials) in freshwater and artificial seawater was tested, in order to replicate real life conditions, when FPV systems are located in reservoirs or in the marine environment. Electrical insulation tests were carried out weekly to assess possible cable degradation, the physical-chemical characteristics of the water were also periodically monitored, complemented by analysis to detect traces of copper and microplastics in the water. The results showed that the submersion of photovoltaic cables with rubber sheath in saltwater can lead to a cable accelerated degradation, with reduction of its electrical insulation and, consequently, copper release into the aquatic environment. The test results pointed a probable relationship between submersion of cables with rubber outer shell and water freezing temperatures and the occurrence of accelerated degradation of the cable insulation layer. Reduced insulation resistance values were measured in this cable type after the occurrence of such temperatures, both in salt and freshwater, the cable presented visible exterior degradation signs. For this case copper residues were detected in the water.