UCHICAGO ARGONNE, LLC Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160138048 | METHOD FOR GENERATING METHANE FROM A CARBONACEOUS FEEDSTOCK - The present invention provides a method for generating methane from a carbonaceous feedstock with simultaneous in situ sequestration of carbon dioxide to afford a biogas comprising at least 85 percent by volume methane, the method comprising anaerobically incubating a particulate additive in contact with a carbonaceous feedstock in a neutral or alkaline aqueous culture medium containing a culture of methanogenic consortia and collecting methane generated therefrom. The additive comprises at least one material selected from a biochar, an ash produced by gasification or combustion of a carbonaceous material, a black carbon soil, and a Terra Preta soil. | 05-19-2016 |
20160111176 | PRODUCTION OF ISOTOPES USING HIGH POWER PROTON BEAMS - The invention provides for a method for producing isotopes using a beam of particles from an accelerator, whereby the beam is maintained at between about 70 to 2000 MeV; and contacting a thorium-containing target with the particles. The medically important isotope | 04-21-2016 |
20160101974 | LOW-STRESS DOPED ULTRANANOCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND - Nanocrystalline diamond coatings exhibit stress in nano/micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS). Doped nanocrstalline diamond coatings exhibit increased stress. A carbide forming metal coating reduces the in-plane stress. In addition, without any metal coating, simply growing UNCD or NCD with thickness in the range of 3-4 micron also reduces in-plane stress significantly. Such coatings can be used in MEMS applications. | 04-14-2016 |
20160099484 | ELECTROLYTE COMPOSITIONS FOR HIGH VOLTAGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrolyte composition for a lithium-ion battery comprising LiPF | 04-07-2016 |
20160074838 | SELECTIVE ALKANE ACTIVATION WITH SINGLE-SITE ATOMS ON AMORPHOUS SUPPORT - The present invention relates generally to catalysts and methods for use in olefin production. More particularly, the present invention relates to novel amorphously supported single-center, Lewis acid metal ions and use of the same as catalysts. | 03-17-2016 |
20160065612 | MULTIPLE OPERATING SYSTEM ROTATION ENVIRONMENT MOVING TARGET DEFENSE - Systems and methods for providing a multiple operating system rotation environment (“MORE”) moving target defense (“MTD”) computing system are described. The MORE-MTD system provides enhanced computer system security through a rotation of multiple operating systems. The MORE-MTD system increases attacker uncertainty, increases the cost of attacking the system, reduces the likelihood of an attacker locating a vulnerability, and reduces the exposure time of any located vulnerability. The MORE-MTD environment is effectuated by rotation of the operating systems at a given interval. The rotating operating systems create a consistently changing attack surface for remote attackers. | 03-03-2016 |
20160061384 | COMPACT LIQUID NITROGEN PUMP - The invention provides a cryogenic liquid pump system, having a first end with at least an insulating lid and motor; a second end, wherein the second end is a pump, said pump comprising an impeller; and a gas release plate upstream of the impeller; and a shaft disposed between the first end and the second end, wherein the motor imparts mechanical energy to the pump through the shaft. Also provided is a method for preventing cavitation of a cryogenic liquid in a cryogenic pump, the method having the steps of constantly maintaining pressure on the liquid in the pump and evacuating gas bubbles that form within the pump. | 03-03-2016 |
20160059306 | INTERMETALLIC NANOPARTICLES - A process for preparing intermetallic nanoparticles of two or more metals is provided. In particular, the process includes the steps: a) dispersing nanoparticles of a first metal in a solvent to prepare a first metal solution, b) forming a reaction mixture with the first metal solution and a reducing agent, c) heating the reaction mixture to a reaction temperature; and d) adding a second metal solution containing a salt of a second metal to the reaction mixture. During this process, intermetallic nanoparticles, which contain a compound with the first and second metals are formed. The intermetallic nanoparticles with uniform size and a narrow size distribution is also provided. An electrochemical device such as a battery with the intermetallic nanoparticles is also provided. | 03-03-2016 |
20160034727 | COMPACT MOBILE-READER SYSTEM FOR TWO-WAY WIRELESS COMMUNICATION, TRACKING AND STATUS MONITORING FOR TRANSPORT SAFETY AND SECURITY - A system for monitoring a plurality radio frequency identification tags is described. The system uses at least one set of radio frequency identification tags. Each tag is attached to a container and includes several sensors for detecting physical conditions of said container. The system includes at least one autonomous intermediate reader in wireless communication with the frequency identification tags. The intermediate reader includes external wireless communication system, intermediate reader logic controller, and a self-contained rechargeable power supply. The system uses a central status reporting system in communication the intermediate reader. | 02-04-2016 |
20150364747 | MATERIALS FOR SOLID STATE ELECTROLYTES AND PROTECTIVE ELECTRODE COATINGS FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A method for using atomic layer deposition to produce a film configured for use in an anode, cathode, or solid state electrolyte of a lithium-ion battery or a lithium-sulfur battery. The method includes repeating a cycle for a predetermined number of times in an inert atmosphere. The cycle includes exposing a substrate to a first precursor, purging the substrate with inert gas, exposing the substrate to a second precursor, and purging the substrate with inert gas. The film is a metal sulfide. | 12-17-2015 |
20150364257 | WOUND/STACKED CERAMIC FILM CAPACITORS, METHOD FOR MAKING CERAMIC FILM CAPACITORS - The invention provides a process for making ceramic film capacitors, the process comprising supplying a flexible substrate, depositing a first electrode on a first region of the flexible substrate, wherein the first electrode defines a first thickness, overlaying the first electrode with a dielectric film; and depositing a second electrode on the ceramic film, wherein the second electrode defines a second thickness. Also provided is a capacitor comprising flexible substrate, a first electrode deposited on said flexible substrate, a dielectric overlaying the first electrode; and a second electrode deposited on said dielectric. | 12-17-2015 |
20150348661 | VITRIFIED CHEMICALLY BONDED PHOSPHATE CERAMICS FOR IMMOBILIZATION OF RADIOISOTOPES - A method of immobilizing a radioisotope and vitrified chemically bonded phosphate ceramic (CBPC) articles formed by the method are described. The method comprises combining a radioisotope-containing material, MgO, a source of phosphate, and optionally, a reducing agent, in water at a temperature of less than 100° C. to form a slurry; curing the slurry to form a solid intermediate CBPC article comprising the radioisotope therefrom; comminuting the intermediate CBPC article, mixing the comminuted material with glass frits, and heating the mixture at a temperature in the range of about 900 to about 1500° C. to form a vitrified CBPC article comprising the radioisotope immobilized therein. | 12-03-2015 |
20150345036 | ATOMIC LAYER EPITAXY OF HEMATITE ON INDIUM TIN OXIDE FOR APPLICATION IN SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION - A method to provide an article of manufacture of iron oxide on indium tin oxide for solar energy conversion. An atomic layer epitaxy method is used to deposit an uncommon bixbytite-phase iron (III) oxide (β-Fe | 12-03-2015 |
20150340114 | MECHANICAL DESIGN OF MULTIPLE ZONE PLATES PRECISION ALIGNMENT APPARATUS FOR HARD X-RAY FOCUSING IN TWENTY-NANOMETER SCALE - An enhanced mechanical design of multiple zone plates precision alignment apparatus for hard x-ray focusing in a twenty-nanometer scale is provided. The precision alignment apparatus includes a zone plate alignment base frame; a plurality of zone plates; and a plurality of zone plate holders, each said zone plate holder for mounting and aligning a respective zone plate for hard x-ray focusing. At least one respective positioning stage drives and positions each respective zone plate holder. Each respective positioning stage is mounted on the zone plate alignment base frame. A respective linkage component connects each respective positioning stage and the respective zone plate holder. The zone plate alignment base frame, each zone plate holder and each linkage component is formed of a selected material for providing thermal expansion stability and positioning stability for the precision alignment apparatus. | 11-26-2015 |
20150333328 | Electrode Materials For Rechargeable Battery - A positive electrode is disclosed for a non-aqueous electrolyte lithium rechargeable cell or battery. The electrode comprises a lithium containing material of the formula Na | 11-19-2015 |
20150318546 | COBALT-STABILIZED LITHIUM METAL OXIDE ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - An electrode material comprising a composite lithium metal oxide, which in an initial state has the formula: y[xLi | 11-05-2015 |
20150311023 | METHOD TO FABRICATE PORTABLE ELECTRON SOURCE BASED ON NITROGEN INCORPORATED ULTRANANOCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND (N-UNCD) - A source cold cathode field emission array (FEA) source based on ultra-nanocrystalline diamond (UNCD) field emitters. This system was constructed as an alternative for detection of obscured objects and material. Depending on the geometry of the given situation a flat-panel source can be used in tomography, radiography, or tomosynthesis. Furthermore, the unit can be used as a portable electron or X-ray scanner or an integral part of an existing detection system. UNCD field emitters show great field emission output and can be deposited over large areas as the case with carbon nanotube “forest” (CNT) cathodes. Furthermore, UNCDs have better mechanical and thermal properties as compared to CNT tips which further extend the lifetime of UNCD based FEA. | 10-29-2015 |
20150311022 | Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Films With Optimized Dielectric Properties For Advanced RF MEMS Capacitive Switches - An efficient deposition process is provided for fabricating reliable RF MEMS capacitive switches with multilayer ultrananocrystalline (UNCD) films for more rapid recovery, charging and discharging that is effective for more than a billion cycles of operation. Significantly, the deposition process is compatible for integration with CMOS electronics and thereby can provide monolithically integrated RF MEMS capacitive switches for use with CMOS electronic devices, such as for insertion into phase array antennas for radars and other RF communication systems. | 10-29-2015 |
20150307763 | Nanoparticles for Heat Transfer and Thermal Energy Storage - An article of manufacture and method of preparation thereof. The article of manufacture and method of making the article includes an eutectic salt solution suspensions and a plurality of nanocrystalline phase change material particles having a coating disposed thereon and the particles capable of undergoing the phase change which provides increase in thermal energy storage. In addition, other articles of manufacture can include a nanofluid additive comprised of nanometer-sized particles consisting of copper decorated graphene particles that provide advanced thermal conductivity to heat transfer fluids. | 10-29-2015 |
20150303315 | ALL 2D, HIGH MOBILITY, FLEXIBLE, TRANSPARENT THIN FILM TRANSISTOR - A two-dimensional thin film transistor and a method for manufacturing a two-dimensional thin film transistor includes layering a semiconducting channel material on a substrate, providing a first electrode material on top of the semiconducting channel material, patterning a source metal electrode and a drain metal electrode at opposite ends of the semiconducting channel material from the first electrode material, opening a window between the source metal electrode and the drain metal electrode, removing the first electrode material from the window located above the semiconducting channel material providing a gate dielectric above the semiconducting channel material, and providing a top gate above the gate dielectric, the top gate formed from a second electrode material. The semiconducting channel material is made of tungsten diselenide, the first electrode material and the second electrode material are made of graphene, and the gate dielectric is made of hexagonal boron nitride. | 10-22-2015 |
20150301324 | CHARGE GRADIENT MICROSCOPY - A method for rapid imaging of a material specimen includes positioning a tip to contact the material specimen, and applying a force to a surface of the material specimen via the tip. In addition, the method includes moving the tip across the surface of the material specimen while removing electrical charge therefrom, generating a signal produced by contact between the tip and the surface, and detecting, based on the data, the removed electrical charge induced through the tip during movement of the tip across the surface. The method further includes measuring the detected electrical charge. | 10-22-2015 |
20150293236 | THERMAL KINETIC INDUCTANCE DETECTOR - A microcalorimeter for radiation detection that uses superconducting kinetic inductance resonators as the thermometers. The detector is frequency-multiplexed which enables detector systems with a large number of pixels. | 10-15-2015 |
20150280240 | INTERMETALLIC NANOPARTICLES - A process for preparing intermetallic nanoparticles of two or more metals is provided. In particular, the process includes the steps: a) dispersing nanoparticles of a first metal in a solvent to prepare a first metal solution, b) forming a reaction mixture with the first metal solution and a reducing agent, c) heating the reaction mixture to a reaction temperature; and d) adding a second metal solution containing a salt of a second metal to the reaction mixture. During this process, intermetallic nanoparticles, which contain a compound with the first and second metals are formed. The intermetallic nanoparticles with uniform size and a narrow size distribution is also provided. An electrochemical device such as a battery with the intermetallic nanoparticles is also provided. | 10-01-2015 |
20150263259 | CREATION OF HIGH-PINNING MICROSTRUCTURES IN POST PRODUCTION YBCO COATED CONDUCTORS - A method comprising irradiating a polycrystalline rare earth metal-alkaline earth metal-transition metal-oxide superconductor layer with protons having an energy of 1 to 6 MeV. The irradiating process produces an irradiated layer that comprises randomly dispersed defects with an average diameter in the range of 1-10 nm. | 09-17-2015 |
20150255298 | Sequential Infiltration Synthesis for Advanced Lithography - A plasma etch resist material modified by an inorganic protective component via sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) and methods of preparing the modified resist material. The modified resist material is characterized by an improved resistance to a plasma etching or related process relative to the unmodified resist material, thereby allowing formation of patterned features into a substrate material, which may be high-aspect ratio features. The SIS process forms the protective component within the bulk resist material through a plurality of alternating exposures to gas phase precursors which infiltrate the resist material. The plasma etch resist material may be initially patterned using photolithography, electron-beam lithography or a block copolymer self-assembly process. | 09-10-2015 |
20150236543 | MATERIALS FOR USE WITH AQUEOUS REDOX FLOW BATTERIES AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSYTEMS - Described herein are redox flow batteries comprising a first aqueous electrolyte comprising a first type of redox active material and a second aqueous electrolyte comprising a second type of redox active material. The first type of redox active material may comprise one or more types of quinoxalines, or salts thereof. Methods for storing and releasing energy utilizing the described redox flow batteries are also provided. | 08-20-2015 |
20150221982 | HIGH VOLTAGE REDOX SHUTTLES, METHOD FOR MAKING HIGH VOLTAGE REDOX SHUTTLES - The invention provides a method for producing a molecule capable of undergoing reduction-oxidation when subjected to a voltage potential, the method comprising phosphorylating hydroquinone to create a first intermediate; rearranging the first intermediate to an aryl-bis- (phosphonate) thereby creating a second intermediate comprising phosphorous alkoxy groups; alkylating (e.g., methylating) the second intermediate; converting the alkoxy groups to halides; and substituting the halides to alkyl or aryl groups. Also provided is a system for preventing overcharge in a Lithium-ion battery, the method comprising a mixture of a redox shuttle with electrolyte in the battery such that the shuttle comprises between about 10 and about 20 weight percent of the mixture. | 08-06-2015 |
20150206748 | GRAPHENE LAYER FORMATION AT LOW SUBSTRATE TEMPERATURE ON A METAL AND CARBON BASED SUBSTRATE - A system and method for forming graphene layers on a substrate. The system and methods include direct growth of graphene on diamond and low temperature growth of graphene using a solid carbon source. | 07-23-2015 |
20150203980 | Method for Ultra-Fast Boriding - An article of manufacture and method of forming a borided material. An electrochemical cell is used to process a substrate to deposit a plurality of borided layers on the substrate. The plurality of layers are co-deposited such that a refractory metal boride layer is disposed on a substrate and a rare earth metal boride conforming layer is disposed on the refractory metal boride layer. | 07-23-2015 |
20150197701 | SUPERLUBRICATING GRAPHENE AND GRAPHENE OXIDE FILMS - A system and method for forming at least one of graphene and graphene oxide on a substrate and an opposed wear member. The system includes graphene and graphene oxide formed by an exfoliation process or solution processing method to dispose graphene and/or graphene oxide onto a substrate. The system further includes an opposing wear member disposed on another substrate and a gas atmosphere of an inert gas like N2, ambient, a humid atmosphere and a water solution. | 07-16-2015 |
20150194681 | ELECTROCATALYSTS USING POROUS POLYMERS AND METHOD OF PREPARATION - A method of producing an electrocatalyst article using porous polymers. The method creates a porous polymer designed to receive transition metal groups disposed at ligation sites and activating the transition metals to form an electrocatalyst which can be used in a fuel cell. Electrocatalysts prepared by this method are also provided. A fuel cell which includes the electrocatalyst is also provided. | 07-09-2015 |
20150180045 | NON-PLATINUM GROUP METAL ELECTROCATALYSTS USING METAL ORGANIC FRAMEWORK MATERIALS AND METHOD OF PREPARATION - A method of preparing a nitrogen containing electrode catalyst by converting a high surface area metal-organic framework (MOF) material free of platinum group metals that includes a transition metal, an organic ligand, and an organic solvent via a high temperature thermal treatment to form catalytic active sites in the MOF. At least a portion of the contained organic solvent may be replaced with a nitrogen containing organic solvent or an organometallic compound or a transition metal salt to enhance catalytic performance. The electrode catalysts may be used in various electrochemical systems, including an alkaline fuel cell. | 06-25-2015 |
20150180032 | COBALT-STABILIZED LITHIUM METAL OXIDE ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A three-component, layered-layered-spinel, composite lithium metal oxide electrode material, in an initial state has the formula: | 06-25-2015 |
20150180031 | LITHIUM METAL OXIDE ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A lithium-rich spinel metal oxide electrode material has the formula: Li | 06-25-2015 |
20150180027 | MULTI-COMPONENT INTERMETALLIC ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - Multi-component intermetallic negative electrodes prepared by electrochemical deposition for non-aqueous lithium cells and batteries are disclosed. More specifically, the invention relates to composite intermetallic electrodes comprising two or more compounds containing metallic or metaloid elements, at least one element of which can react with lithium to form binary, ternary, quaternary or higher order compounds, these compounds being in combination with one or more other metals that are essentially inactive toward lithium and act predominantly, but not necessarily exclusively, to the electronic conductivity of, and as current collection agent for, the electrode. The invention relates more specifically to negative electrode materials that provide an operating potential between 0.05 and 2.0 V vs. metallic lithium. | 06-25-2015 |
20150177030 | TRANSIENT MULTIVARIABLE SENSOR EVALUATION - A method and system for performing transient multivariable sensor evaluation. The method and system includes a computer system for identifying a model form, providing training measurement data, generating a basis vector, monitoring system data from sensor, loading the system data in a non-transient memory, performing an estimation to provide desired data and comparing the system data to the desired data and outputting an alarm for a defective sensor. | 06-25-2015 |
20150093658 | LITHIUM-AIR BATTERIES, METHOD FOR MAKING LITHIUM-AIR BATTERIES - The invention provides a method for generating Li | 04-02-2015 |
20150092925 | X-Ray Monitoring Optical Elements - An X-ray article and method for analyzing hard X-rays which have interacted with a test system. The X-ray article is operative to diffract or otherwise process X-rays from an input X-ray beam which have interacted with the test system and at the same time provide an electrical circuit adapted to collect photoelectrons emitted from an X-ray optical element of the X-ray article to analyze features of the test system. | 04-02-2015 |
20150090596 | MICROFLUIDIC PROCESS MONITOR FOR INDUSTRIAL SOLVENT EXTRACTION SYSTEM - The present invention provides a system for solvent extraction utilizing a first electrode with a raised area formed on its surface, which defines a portion of a microfluidic channel; a second electrode with a flat surface, defining another portion of the microfluidic channel that opposes the raised area of the first electrode; a reversibly deformable substrate disposed between the first electrode and second electrode, adapted to accommodate the raised area of the first electrode and having a portion that extends beyond the raised area of the first electrode, that portion defining the remaining portions of the microfluidic channel; and an electrolyte of at least two immiscible liquids that flows through the microfluidic channel. Also provided is a system for performing multiple solvent extractions utilizing several microfluidic chips or unit operations connected in series. | 04-02-2015 |
20150090364 | ENHANCED METHODS FOR OPERATING REFUELING STATION TUBE-TRAILERS TO REDUCE REFUELING COST - A method and apparatus are provided for operating a refueling station including source tube-trailers and at least one compressor to reduce refueling cost. The refueling station includes a gaseous fuel supply source including a plurality of tanks on a tube trailer coupled to a first control unit, and high pressure buffer storage having predefined capacity coupled to a second control unit and the first tanks by a pressure control valve and the first control unit, and at least one compressor. The refueling station is operated at different modes depending on a state of the refueling station at the beginning of each operational mode. The refueling system is assessed at the end of each operational mode to identify the state of the system and select a next mode of operation. The operational modes include consolidating hydrogen, or any gaseous fuel, within the tubes mounted on the trailer. | 04-02-2015 |
20150087566 | Tribological Synthesis Method for Producing Low-Friction Surface Film Coating - An article of method of manufacture of a low friction tribological film on a substrate. The article includes a substrate of a steel or ceramic which has been tribologically processed with a lubricant containing selected additives and the additives, temperature, load and time of processing can be selectively controlled to bias formation of a film on the substrate where the film is an amorphous structure exhibiting highly advantageous low friction properties. | 03-26-2015 |
20150063524 | ALD COATING OF NUCLEAR FUEL ACTINIDES MATERIALS - A method of forming a nuclear fuel pellet, with the steps of obtaining a fuel form in a powdered state; coating the fuel form in a powdered state with at least one layer of a material; and sintering the powdered fuel form into a fuel pellet. A sintered nuclear fuel pellet, wherein the pellet is made from a powdered fuel form, wherein the powdered fuel form is coated with at least one layer of a material, and wherein the at least one layer of the material substantially surrounds each interfacial grain barrier after the powdered fuel form has been sintered. | 03-05-2015 |
20150063523 | COATING OF NUCLEAR FUEL CLADDING MATERIALS, METHOD FOR COATING NUCLEAR FUEL CLADDING MATERIALS - The invention provides a nuclear reactor cladding, wherein at least one layer of coating is deposited on the exterior surface of the cladding. A nuclear reactor cladding, wherein at least one layer of coating is deposited on the interior surface of the cladding. A method of coating a nuclear reactor cladding, with the steps of selecting the cladding and depositing at least one layer of a first coating on the cladding. | 03-05-2015 |
20150063521 | DESIGNED POROSITY MATERIALS IN NUCLEAR REACTOR COMPONENTS - A nuclear fuel pellet with a porous substrate, such as a carbon or tungsten aerogel, on which at least one layer of a fuel containing material is deposited via atomic layer deposition, and wherein the layer deposition is controlled to prevent agglomeration of defects. Further, a method of fabricating a nuclear fuel pellet, wherein the method features the steps of selecting a porous substrate, depositing at least one layer of a fuel containing material, and terminating the deposition when the desired porosity is achieved. Also provided is a nuclear reactor fuel cladding made of a porous substrate, such as silicon carbide aerogel or silicon carbide cloth, upon which layers of silicon carbide are deposited. | 03-05-2015 |
20150056536 | NON-PLATINUM GROUP METAL ELECTROCATALYSTS USING METAL ORGANIC FRAMEWORK MATERIALS AND METHOD OF PREPARATION - A method of preparing a nitrogen containing electrode catalyst by converting a high surface area metal-organic framework (MOF) material free of platinum group metals that includes a transition metal, an organic ligand, and an organic solvent via a high temperature thermal treatment to form catalytic active sites in the MOF. At least a portion of the contained organic solvent may be replaced with a nitrogen containing organic solvent or an organometallic compound or a transition metal salt to enhance catalytic performance. The electrode catalysts may be used in various electrochemical systems, including a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. | 02-26-2015 |
20150055759 | RADIATION BEAM COLLIMATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - The invention provides a method for collimating a radiation beam, the method comprising subjecting the beam to a collimator that yaws and pitches, either separately or simultaneously relative to the incident angle of the beam. Also provided is a system for collimating radiation beams, the system comprising a collimator body, and a stage for pitching and yawing the body. A feature of the invention is that a single, compact mask body defines one or a plurality of collimators having no moving surfaces relative to each other, whereby the entire mask body is moved about a point in space to provide various collimator opening dimensions to oncoming radiation beams. | 02-26-2015 |
20150050561 | HIGH VOLTAGE LITHIUM ION BATTERIES HAVING FLUORINATED ELECTROLYTES AND LITHIUM-BASED ADDITIVES - A lithium ion cell includes a cathode including a cathode active material having an operating voltage of 4.6 volts or greater; an anode including an anode material and a lithium additive including a lithium metal foil, lithium alloy, or an organolithium material; a separator; and an electrolyte. | 02-19-2015 |
20150044542 | AMORPHOUS TITANIA/CARBON COMPOSITE ELECTRODE MATERIALS - An isolated salt comprising a compound of formula (H | 02-12-2015 |
20150038387 | SUPERABSORBING GEL FOR ACTINIDE, LANTHANIDE, AND FISSION PRODUCT DECONTAMINATION - The present invention provides an aqueous gel composition for removing actinide ions, lanthanide ions, fission product ions, or a combination thereof from a porous surface contaminated therewith. The composition comprises a polymer mixture comprising a gel forming cross-linked polymer and a linear polymer. The linear polymer is present at a concentration that is less than the concentration of the cross-linked polymer. The polymer mixture is at least about 95% hydrated with an aqueous solution comprising about 0.1 to about 3 percent by weight (wt %) of a multi-dentate organic acid chelating agent, and about 0.02 to about 0.6 molar (M) carbonate salt, to form a gel. When applied to a porous surface contaminated with actinide ions, lanthanide ions, and/or other fission product ions, the aqueous gel absorbs contaminating ions from the surface. | 02-05-2015 |
20150028583 | RESOURCE LOADING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USE IN ATMOSPHERE-CONTAINMENT SCENARIOS - The invention provides a system for preventing fluid exchange between the interior and exterior of containment enclosures such as process-, hazard-, and research-enclosure systems generally, gloveboxes, containment systems, isolation systems, confinement systems, cleanrooms, negative air systems, and positive air system areas while simultaneously providing material transfer into and out of the enclosures. The system comprises a cylinder adapted to be received by a region of a containment enclosure forming an aperture so that a hermetic seal exists between the cylinder and the aperture; a canister coaxially positioned within, and in slidable communication with the cylinder such that a hermetic seal exists between the canister and the glove port. The invention also provides a method for transporting material into or out of a containment structure. | 01-29-2015 |
20150021184 | Carbon Dioxide Capture Using Resin-Wafer Electrodeionization - The present invention provides a resin-wafer electrodeionization (RW-EDI) apparatus including cathode and anode electrodes separated by a plurality of porous solid ion exchange resin wafers, which when in use are filled with an aqueous fluid. The apparatus includes one or more wafers comprising a basic ion exchange medium, and preferably includes one or more wafers comprising an acidic ion exchange medium. The wafers are separated from one another by ion exchange membranes. The fluid within the acidic and/or basic ion exchange wafers preferably includes, or is in contact with, a carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzyme to facilitate conversion of bicarbonate ion to carbon dioxide within the acidic medium. A pH suitable for exchange of CO | 01-22-2015 |
20140376118 | RESONANCE-SHIFTING LUMINESCENT SOLAR CONCENTRATORS - An optical system and method to overcome luminescent solar concentrator inefficiencies by resonance-shifting, in which sharply directed emission from a bi-layer cavity into a glass substrate returns to interact with the cavity off-resonance at each subsequent reflection, significantly reducing reabsorption loss en route to the edges. In one embodiment, the system comprises a luminescent solar concentrator comprising a transparent substrate, a luminescent film having a variable thickness; and a low refractive index layer disposed between the transparent substrate and the luminescent film. | 12-25-2014 |
20140370405 | ORGANIC NON-AQUEOUS CATION-BASED REDOX FLOW BATTERIES - The present invention provides a non-aqueous redox flow battery comprising a negative electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid negative electrolyte, a positive electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid positive electrolyte, and a cation-permeable separator (e.g., a porous membrane, film, sheet, or panel) between the negative electrolyte from the positive electrolyte. During charging and discharging, the electrolytes are circulated over their respective electrodes. The electrolytes each comprise an electrolyte salt (e.g., a lithium or sodium salt), a transition-metal free redox reactant, and optionally an electrochemically stable organic solvent. Each redox reactant is selected from an organic compound comprising a conjugated unsaturated moiety, a boron cluster compound, and a combination thereof. The organic redox reactant of the positive electrolyte comprises a tetrafluorohydroquinone ether compound or a tetrafluorocatechol ether compound. | 12-18-2014 |
20140334607 | DIFFRACTION LEVERAGED MODULATION OF X-RAY PULSES USING MEMS-BASED X-RAY OPTICS - A method and apparatus are provided for implementing Bragg-diffraction leveraged modulation of X-ray pulses using MicroElectroMechanical systems (MEMS) based diffractive optics. An oscillating crystalline MEMS device generates a controllable time-window for diffraction of the incident X-ray radiation. The Bragg-diffraction leveraged modulation of X-ray pulses includes isolating a particular pulse, spatially separating individual pulses, and spreading a single pulse from an X-ray pulse-train. | 11-13-2014 |
20140322607 | SURFACE PROTECTED LITHIUM-METAL-OXIDE ELECTRODES - A lithium-metal-oxide positive electrode having a layered or spinel structure for a non-aqueous lithium electrochemical cell and battery is disclosed comprising electrode particles that are protected at the surface from undesirable effects, such as electrolyte oxidation, oxygen loss or dissolution by one or more lithium-metal-polyanionic compounds, such as a lithium-metal-phosphate or a lithium-metal-silicate material that can act as a solid electrolyte at or above the operating potential of the lithium-metal-oxide electrode. The surface protection significantly enhances the surface stability, rate capability and cycling stability of the lithium-metal-oxide electrodes, particularly when charged to high potentials. | 10-30-2014 |
20140320864 | INTERFEROMETRIC MILLIMETER WAVE AND THZ WAVE DOPPLER RADAR - A mixerless high frequency interferometric Doppler radar system and methods has been invented, numerically validated and experimentally tested. A continuous wave source, phase modulator (e.g., a continuously oscillating reference mirror) and intensity detector are utilized. The intensity detector measures the intensity of the combined reflected Doppler signal and the modulated reference beam. Rigorous mathematics formulas have been developed to extract bot amplitude and phase from the measured intensity signal. Software in Matlab has been developed and used to extract such amplitude and phase information from the experimental data. Both amplitude and phase are calculated and the Doppler frequency signature of the object is determined. | 10-30-2014 |
20140312263 | ADVANCED THERMAL PROPERTIES OF A SUSPENSION WITH GRAPHENE NANO-PLATELETS (GNPS) AND CUSTOM FUNCTIONALIZED F-GNPS - A method for producing nanofluids with multilayered graphene nanoplatelets for providing improved heat transfer coolant fluids. A method for optimizing the concentration of nanoplatelets based on their morphology that allows achieving high thermal conductivity and low viscosity thus resulting in high heat transfer coefficient. A method is provided to functionalize as received graphene nanoplatelets by oxidaitively treating the multilayered graphene/nanothin graphite to generate highly dispensable nanoparticles for suspension in polar fluids for cooling thermal sources, such as power electronics and other heat transfer cooling applications. | 10-23-2014 |
20140305805 | SUBNANOMETER CATALYTIC CLUSTERS FOR WATER SPLITTING, METHOD FOR SPLITTING WATER USING SUBNANOMETER CATALYST CLUSTERS - The invention provides a catalytic electrode for converting molecules, the electrode comprising a predetermined number of single catalytic sites supported on a substrate. Also provided is a method for oxidizing water comprising contacting the water with size selected catalyst clusters. The invention also provides a method for reducing an oxidized moiety, the method comprising contacting the moiety with size selected catalyst clusters at a predetermined voltage potential. | 10-16-2014 |
20140303011 | HIGH RESOLUTION CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOLOGICAL MATRICES - The invention provides for a method for distinguishing spore preparation procedures using spore molecular signatures, the method comprising harvesting spores from a sample; extracting molecules from the spores, fractionating the extracted molecules for analysis; generating molecular signatures from the fractionated molecules, and comparing the molecular signatures to a library of molecular signatures. | 10-09-2014 |
20140274830 | NOVEL MATERIALS AS ADDITIVES FOR ADVANCED LUBRICATION - This invention relates to carbon-based materials as anti-friction and anti-wear additives for advanced lubrication purposes. The materials comprise carbon nanotubes suspended in a liquid hydrocarbon carrier. Optionally, the compositions further comprise a surfactant (e.g., to aid in dispersion of the carbon particles). Specifically, the novel lubricants have the ability to significantly lower friction and wear, which translates into improved fuel economies and longer durability of mechanical devices and engines. | 09-18-2014 |
20140272610 | POROUS GRAPHENE NANOCAGES FOR BATTERY APPLICATIONS - An active material composition includes a porous graphene nanocage and a source material. The source material may be a sulfur material. The source material may be an anodic material. A lithium-sulfur battery is provided that includes a cathode, an anode, a lithium salt, and an electrolyte, where the cathode of the lithium-sulfur battery includes a porous graphene nanocage and a sulfur material and at least a portion of the sulfur material is entrapped within the porous graphene nanocage. Also provided is a lithium-air battery that includes a cathode, an anode, a lithium salt, and an electrolyte, where the cathode includes a porous graphene nanocage and where the cathode may be free of a cathodic metal catalyst. | 09-18-2014 |
20140272607 | NON-AQUEOUS ELECTROLYTE FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERY - A substantially non-aqueous electrolyte solution includes an alkali metal salt, a polar aprotic solvent, and an organophosphorus compound of Formula IA, IB, or IC: | 09-18-2014 |
20140259235 | SIMULTANEOUS TOPOGRAPHIC AND ELEMENTAL CHEMICAL AND MAGNETIC CONTRAST IN SCANNING TUNNELING MICROSCOPY - A method and system for performing simultaneous topographic and elemental chemical and magnetic contrast analysis in a scanning, tunneling microscope. The method and system also includes nanofabricated coaxial multilayer tips with a nanoscale conducting apex and a programmable in-situ nanomanipulator to fabricate these tips and also to rotate tips controllably. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255798 | COATING OF POROUS CARBON FOR USE IN LITHIUM AIR BATTERIES - A cathode includes a carbon material having a surface, the surface having a first thin layer of an inert material and a first catalyst overlaying the first thin layer, the first catalyst including metal or metal oxide nanoparticles, wherein the cathode is configured for use as the cathode of a lithium-air battery. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255794 | SULFUR CATHODE HOSTED IN POROUS ORGANIC POLYMERIC MATRICES - A composite material includes a porous organic polymer and an electrochemically active material, wherein the porous organic polymer contains a plurality of pores having a diameter of from about 0.1 nm to about 100 nm, and the electrochemically active material is disposed within the pores. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255793 | FUNCTIONAL ELECTROLYTE FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - Functional electrolyte solvents include compounds having at least one aromatic ring with 2, 3, 4 or 5 substituents, at least one of which is a substituted or unsubstituted methoxy group, at least one of which is a tert-butyl group and at least one of which is a substituted or unsubstituted polyether or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) group bonded through oxygen to the aromatic ring, are provided. | 09-11-2014 |
20140234703 | REDOX SHUTTLE ADDITIVES FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - An electro lye includes a compound of Formula I or IA: where each instance of R | 08-21-2014 |
20140220417 | HETEROAROMATIC-BASED ELECTROLYTES FOR LITHIUM AND LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrolyte for lithium and/or lithium-ion batteries comprising a lithium salt in a liquid carrier comprising heteroaromatic compound including a five-membered or six-membered heteroaromatic ring moiety selected from the group consisting of a furan, a pyrazine, a triazine, a pyrrole, and a thiophene, the heteroaromatic ring moiety bearing least one carboxylic ester or carboxylic anhydride substituent bound to at least one carbon atom of the heteroaromatic ring. Preferred heteroaromatic ring moieties include pyridine compounds, pyrazine compounds, pyrrole compounds, furan compounds, and thiophene compounds. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220244 | ALD REACTOR FOR COATING POROUS SUBSTRATES - A system and method for improved atomic layer deposition. The system includes a top showerhead plate, a substrate and a bottom showerhead plate. The substrate includes a porous microchannel plate and a substrate holder is positioned in the system to insure flow-through of the gas precursor. | 08-07-2014 |
20140212755 | ELECTROACTIVE MATERIALS FOR RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES - An as-prepared cathode for a secondary battery, the cathode including an alkaline source material including an alkali metal oxide, an alkali metal sulfide, an alkali metal salt, or a combination of any two or more thereof. | 07-31-2014 |
20140212748 | ADVANCED SEPARATORS BASED ON AROMATIC POLYMER FOR HIGH ENERGY DENSITY LITHIUM BATTERIES - A process includes casting a solution including poly(phenylene oxide), inorganic nanoparticles, a solvent, and a non-solvent on a substrate; and removing the solvent to form a porous film; wherein: the porous film is configured for use as a porous separator for a lithium ion battery. | 07-31-2014 |
20140212733 | HIGH CAPACITY ELECTRODE MATERIALS FOR BATTERIES AND PROCESS FOR THEIR MANUFACTURE - The present invention provides a nanostructured metal oxide material for use as a component of an electrode in a lithium-ion or sodium-ion battery. The material comprises a nanostructured titanium oxide or vanadium oxide film on a metal foil substrate, produced by depositing or forming a nanostructured titanium dioxide or vanadium oxide material on the substrate, and then charging and discharging the material in an electrochemical cell from a high voltage in the range of about 2.8 to 3.8 V, to a low voltage in the range of about 0.8 to 1.4 V over a period of about 1/30 of an hour or less. Lithium-ion and sodium-ion electrochemical cells comprising electrodes formed from the nanostructured metal oxide materials, as well as batteries formed from the cells, also are provided. | 07-31-2014 |
20140186721 | NON-AQUEOUS ELECTROLYTE FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERY - An electrolyte including an alkali metal salt; a polar aprotic solvent; and a triazinane trione; wherein the electrolyte is substantially non-aqueous. | 07-03-2014 |
20140167168 | Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Films With Optimized Dielectric Properties For Advanced RF MEMS Capacitive Switches - An efficient deposition process is provided for fabricating reliable RF MEMS capacitive switches with multilayer ultrananocrystalline (UNCD) films for more rapid recovery, charging and discharging that is effective for more than a billion cycles of operation. Significantly, the deposition process is compatible for integration with CMOS electronics and thereby can provide monolithically integrated RF MEMS capacitive switches for use with CMOS electronic devices, such as for insertion into phase array antennas for radars and other RF communication systems. | 06-19-2014 |
20140151598 | PRODUCTION OF BATTERY GRADE MATERIALS VIA AN OXALATE METHOD - An active electrode material for electrochemical devices such as lithium ion batteries includes a lithium transition metal oxide which is free of sodium and sulfur contaminants. The lithium transition metal oxide is prepared by calcining a mixture of a lithium precursor and a transition metal oxalate. Electrochemical devices use such active electrodes. | 06-05-2014 |
20140147994 | GRAPHENE LAYER FORMATION ON A CARBON BASED SUBSTRATE - A system and method for forming graphene layers on a substrate. The system and methods include direct growth of graphene on diamond and low temperature growth of graphene using a solid carbon source. | 05-29-2014 |
20140134495 | SILICON-CARBONACEOUS ENCAPSULATED MATERIALS - A process includes preparing a solution including a silicon precursor or mixture of silicon precursors and a monomer or mixture of monomers; polymerizing the monomer to form a polymer-silicon precursor matrix; and pyrolyzing the polymer-silicon precursor matrix to form an electrochemically active carbon-coated silicon material. | 05-15-2014 |
20140127398 | ELECTRODE STRUCTURES AND SURFACES FOR LI BATTERIES - This invention relates to methods of preparing positive electrode materials for electrochemical cells and batteries. It relates, in particular, to a method for fabricating lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials for lithium cells and batteries. The method comprises contacting a hydrogen-lithium-manganese-oxide material with one or more metal ions, preferably in an acidic solution, to insert the one or more metal ions into the hydrogen-lithium-manganese-oxide material; heat-treating the resulting product to form a powdered metal oxide composition; and forming an electrode from the powdered metal oxide composition. | 05-08-2014 |
20140116890 | HYDROGEN EVOLUTION REACTION CATALYST - Systems and methods for a hydrogen evolution reaction catalyst are provided. Electrode material includes a plurality of clusters. The electrode exhibits bifunctionality with respect to the hydrogen evolution reaction. The electrode with clusters exhibits improved performance with respect to the intrinsic material of the electrode absent the clusters. | 05-01-2014 |
20140093052 | TRANSMISSION-GEOMETRY ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL FOR IN-SITU SCATTERING AND SPECTROSCOPY INVESTIGATIONS - The present invention relates to a test chamber that can be used to perform a variety of X-ray and neutron spectroscopy experiments including powder diffraction, small-angle scattering, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and pair distribution functions, such chamber comprising a first electrode with an X-ray transparent window; a second electrode with an X-ray transparent window; a plurality of insulating gaskets providing a hermetic seal around the sample and preventing contact between said first and second electrodes; and an insulating housing into which the first electrode is secured. | 04-03-2014 |
20140080176 | TRANSFORMABLE RHODOBACTER STRAINS, METHOD FOR PRODUCING TRANSFORMABLE RHODOBACTER STRAINS - The invention provides an organism for expressing foreign DNA, the organism engineered to accept standard DNA carriers. The genome of the organism codes for intracytoplasmic membranes and features an interruption in at least one of the genes coding for restriction enzymes. Further provided is a system for producing biological materials comprising: selecting a vehicle to carry DNA which codes for the biological materials; determining sites on the vehicle's DNA sequence susceptible to restriction enzyme cleavage; choosing an organism to accept the vehicle based on that organism not acting upon at least one of said vehicle's sites; engineering said vehicle to contain said DNA; thereby creating a synthetic vector; and causing the synthetic vector to enter the organism so as cause expression of said DNA. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077121 | Generic Approach for Synthesizing Asymmetric Nanoparticles and Nanoassemblies - A generic route for synthesis of asymmetric nanostructures. This approach utilizes submicron magnetic particles (Fe | 03-20-2014 |
20140065465 | SODIUM CHALCOGENIDE ELECTRODES FOR SODIUM BATTERIES - A sodium-ion electrochemical cell described herein comprises a cathode, an anode, and a non-aqueous sodium-containing electrolyte therebetween. The electrolyte comprises a sodium salt dissolved in a liquid organic carrier. The cathode comprises at least one transition metal chalcogenide compound in an initial discharged or partially discharged state and having the formula Na | 03-06-2014 |
20140055005 | MECHANICAL DESIGN OF DEFORMATION COMPENSATED FLEXURAL PIVOTS STRUCTURED FOR LINEAR NANOPOSITIONING STAGES - A method and deformation compensated flexural pivots structured for precision linear nanopositioning stages are provided. A deformation-compensated flexural linear guiding mechanism includes a basic parallel mechanism including a U-shaped member and a pair of parallel bars linked to respective pairs of I-link bars and each of the I-bars coupled by a respective pair of flexural pivots. The basic parallel mechanism includes substantially evenly distributed flexural pivots minimizing center shift dynamic errors. | 02-27-2014 |
20140053779 | MICRO-BALANCE SENSOR INTEGRATED WITH ATOMIC LAYER DEPOSITION CHAMBER - The invention is directed to QCM measurements in monitoring ALD processes. Previously, significant barriers remain in the ALD processes and accurate execution. To turn this exclusively dedicated in situ technique into a routine characterization method, an integral QCM fixture was developed. This new design is easily implemented on a variety of ALD tools, allows rapid sample exchange, prevents backside deposition, and minimizes both the footprint and flow disturbance. Unlike previous QCM designs, the fast thermal equilibration enables tasks such as temperature-dependent studies and ex situ sample exchange, further highlighting the feasibility of this QCM design for day-to-day use. Finally, the in situ mapping of thin film growth rates across the ALD reactor was demonstrated in a popular commercial tool operating in both continuous and quasi-static ALD modes. | 02-27-2014 |
20140038056 | Electrode Materials For Rechargeable Battery - A positive electrode is disclosed for a non-aqueous electrolyte lithium rechargeable cell or battery. The electrode comprises a lithium containing material of the formula Na | 02-06-2014 |
20140027294 | Nanowire and Microwire Fabrication Technique and Product - A continuous or semi-continuous process for fabricating nanowires or microwires makes use of the substantially planar template that may be moved through electrochemical solution to grow nanowires or microwires on exposed conductive edges on the surface of that template. The planar template allows fabrication of the template using standard equipment and techniques. Adhesive transfer may be used to remove the wires from the template and in one embodiment to draw a continuous wire from the template to be wound around the drum. | 01-30-2014 |
20140023941 | NON-AQUEOUS ELECTROLYTES FOR LITHIUM-AIR BATTERIES - A lithium-air cell includes a negative electrode; an air positive electrode; and a non-aqueous electrolyte which includes an anion receptor that may be represented by one or more of the formulas. | 01-23-2014 |
20140023180 | PRECISION MECHANICAL STRUCTURE OF AN ULTRA-HIGH-RESOLUTION SPECTROMETER FOR INELASTIC X-RAY SCATTERING INSTRUMENT - A method and an ultrahigh-resolution spectrometer including a precision mechanical structure for positioning inelastic X-ray scattering optics are provided. The spectrometer includes an X-ray monochromator and an X-ray analyzer, each including X-ray optics of a collimating (C) crystal, a pair of dispersing (D) element crystals, anomalous transmission filter (F) and a wavelength (W) selector crystal. A respective precision mechanical structure is provided with the X-ray monochromator and the X-ray analyzer. The precision mechanical structure includes a base plate, such as an aluminum base plate; positioning stages for D-crystal alignment; positioning stages with an incline sensor for C/F/W-crystal alignment, and the positioning stages including flexure-based high-stiffness structure. | 01-23-2014 |
20130337347 | ULTRASOUND ASSISTED IN-SITU FORMATION OF CARBON/SULFUR CATHODES - A process of preparing an E-carbon nanocomposite includes contacting a porous carbon substrate with an E-containing material to form a mixture; and sonicating the mixture to form the E-carbon nanocomposite; where E is S, Se, Se | 12-19-2013 |
20130335882 | METHOD OF MAKING DIELECTRIC CAPACITORS WITH INCREASED DIELECTRIC BREAKDOWN STRENGTH - The invention is directed to a process for making a dielectric ceramic film capacitor and the ceramic dielectric laminated capacitor formed therefrom, the dielectric ceramic film capacitors having increased dielectric breakdown strength. The invention increases breakdown strength by embedding a conductive oxide layer between electrode layers within the dielectric layer of the capacitors. The conductive oxide layer redistributes and dissipates charge, thus mitigating charge concentration and micro fractures formed within the dielectric by electric fields. | 12-19-2013 |
20130335190 | TUNABLE RESISTANCE COATINGS - A method and article of manufacture of intermixed tunable resistance composite materials. A conducting material and an insulating material are deposited by such methods as ALD or CVD to construct composites with intermixed materials which do not have structure or properties like their bulk counterparts. | 12-19-2013 |
20130286467 | MULTISCALE LIGHT AMPLIFICATION STRUCTURES FOR SURFACE ENHANCED RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY - A method, system and article of manufacture for amplification of light for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The method and system include a source of input light, a grating with grooves therein, a nanoparticle array disposed in the grooves with the nanoparticles and grating having a variety of selectable parameters. The combination of the nanoparticles and selected characteristics, including generating hot spots, and the features of the grating enable enhanced amplification of the input light signal to provide an output Raman signal of greatly increased intensity for Raman spectroscopy. | 10-31-2013 |
20130273723 | GRAPHENE LAYER FORMATION AT LOW SUBSTRATE TEMPERATURE ON A METAL AND CARBON BASED SUBSTRATE - A system and method for forming graphene layers on a substrate. The system and methods include direct growth of graphene on diamond and low temperature growth of graphene using a solid carbon source. | 10-17-2013 |
20130273720 | GRAPHENE LAYER FORMATION ON A CARBON BASED SUBSTRATE - A system and method for forming graphene layers on a substrate. The system and methods include direct growth of graphene on diamond and low temperature growth of graphene using a solid carbon source. | 10-17-2013 |
20130273461 | SYNTHESIS OF ELECTROCATALYSTS USING METAL-ORGANIC FRAMEWORK MATERIALS - Methods and compositions for use in the preparation of MOF-based non-PGM electrocatalysts including combining transition metal compounds with organic ligands and secondary building units to create a solid mixture, heating the solid mixture to form a MOF through a solid-state reaction, optionally heating the MOF to convert it to an electrocatalyst via pyrolysis, and optionally post-treating. The electrode catalysts may be used in various electrochemical systems, including a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. | 10-17-2013 |
20130264680 | NANOLAMINATES OF Al2O3/TiO2 WITH GIANT DIELECTRIC CONSTANT LOW-LEAKAGE-LOW LOSS-EXTENDED FREQUENCY OPERATION FOR NEW-GENERATION NANOELECTRONICS AND ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES - The invention relates generally to a nanolaminate structure involving Al | 10-10-2013 |
20130257646 | COMPRESSIVE PASSIVE MILLIMETER WAVE IMAGER - A compressive scanning approach for millimeter wave imaging and sensing. A Hadamard mask is position to receive millimeter waves from an object to be imaged. A subset of the full set of Hadamard acquisitions is sampled. The subset is used to reconstruct an image representing the object. | 10-03-2013 |
20130256265 | Sequential Infiltration Synthesis for Enhancing Multiple-Patterning Lithography - Simplified methods of multiple-patterning photolithography using sequential infiltration synthesis to modify the photoresist such that it withstands plasma etching better than unmodified resist and replaces one or more hard masks and/or a freezing step in MPL processes including litho-etch-litho-etch photolithography or litho-freeze-litho-etch photolithography. | 10-03-2013 |
20130249630 | Frequency Stabilization in Nonlinear MEMS and NEMS Oscillators - An illustrative system includes an amplifier operably connected to a phase shifter. The amplifier is configured to amplify a voltage from an oscillator. The phase shifter is operably connected to a driving amplitude control, wherein the phase shifter is configured to phase shift the amplified voltage and is configured to set an amplitude of the phase shifted voltage. The oscillator is operably connected to the driving amplitude control. The phase shifted voltage drives the oscillator. The oscillator is at an internal resonance condition, based at least on the amplitude of the phase shifted voltage, that stabilizes frequency oscillations in the oscillator. | 09-26-2013 |
20130233715 | INTERNAL GAS AND LIQUID DISTRIBUTOR FOR ELECTRODEIONIZATION DEVICE - The present invention provides a resin-wafer electrodeionization (RW-EDI) apparatus including cathode and anode electrodes separated by a plurality of porous solid ion exchange resin wafers, which when in use are filled with an aqueous fluid. The apparatus includes one or more wafers comprising a basic ion exchange medium, and preferably includes one or more wafers comprising an acidic ion exchange medium. The wafers are separated from one another by ion exchange membranes. The gas and aqueous fluid are introduced into each basic wafer via a porous gas distributor which disperses the gas as micro-sized bubbles laterally throughout the distributor before entering the wafer. The fluid within the acidic and/or basic ion exchange wafers preferably includes, or is in contact with, a carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzyme or inorganic catalyst to facilitate conversion of bicarbonate ion to carbon dioxide within the acidic medium. | 09-12-2013 |
20130233517 | HYBRID RADIATOR COOLING SYSTEM - A method and hybrid radiator-cooling apparatus for implementing enhanced radiator-cooling are provided. The hybrid radiator-cooling apparatus includes an air-side finned surface for air cooling; an elongated vertically extending surface extending outwardly from the air-side finned surface on a downstream air-side of the hybrid radiator; and a water supply for selectively providing evaporative cooling with water flow by gravity on the elongated vertically extending surface. | 09-12-2013 |
20130231270 | Superabsorbing Gel for Actinide, Lanthanide, and Fission Product Decontamination - The present invention provides an aqueous gel composition for removing actinide ions, lanthanide ions, fission product ions, or a combination thereof from a porous surface contaminated therewith. The composition comprises a polymer mixture comprising a gel forming cross-linked polymer and a linear polymer. The linear polymer is present at a concentration that is less than the concentration of the cross-linked polymer. The polymer mixture is at least about 95% hydrated with an aqueous solution comprising about 0.1 to about 3 percent by weight (wt %) of a multi-dentate organic acid chelating agent, and about 0.02 to about 0.4 molar (M) carbonate salt, to form a gel. When applied to a porous surface contaminated with actinide ions, lanthanide ions, and/or other fission product ions, the aqueous gel absorbs contaminating ions from the surface. | 09-05-2013 |
20130230780 | CATHODE MATERIAL FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A method of manufacture an article of a cathode (positive electrode) material for lithium batteries. The cathode material Is a lithium molybdenum composite transition, metal oxide material and is prepared by mixing in a solid state m intermediate molybdenum composite transition metal oxide and a lithium source. The mixture is thermally treated to obtain me lithium molybdenum composite transition metal oxide cathode material. | 09-05-2013 |
20130224538 | ORGANIC NON-AQUEOUS CATION-BASED REDOX FLOW BATTERIES - The present invention provides a non-aqueous redox flow battery comprising a negative electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid negative electrolyte, a positive electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid positive electrolyte, and a cation-permeable separator (e.g., a porous membrane, film, sheet, or panel) between the negative electrolyte from the positive electrolyte. During charging and discharging, the electrolytes are circulated over their respective electrodes. The electrolytes each comprise an electrolyte salt (e.g., a lithium or sodium salt), a transition-metal free redox reactant, and optionally an electrochemically stable organic solvent. Each redox reactant is selected from an organic compound comprising a conjugated unsaturated moiety, a boron cluster compound, and a combination thereof. The organic redox reactant of the positive electrolyte is selected to have a higher redox potential than the redox reactant of the negative electrolyte. | 08-29-2013 |
20130223469 | Controlling the emissive properties of materials-improved lasers and upconversion materials - Systems and methods for producing crystalline materials by atomic layer deposition, allowing for high control of localized doping. Such materials may be fibers or films suitable for use in optoelectronics and lasers. | 08-29-2013 |
20130221958 | DUAL-STAGE TRAPPED-FLUX MAGNET CRYOSTAT FOR MEASUREMENTS AT HIGH MAGNETIC FIELDS - A method and a dual-stage trapped-flux magnet cryostat apparatus are provided for implementing enhanced measurements at high magnetic fields. The dual-stage trapped-flux magnet cryostat system includes a trapped-flux magnet (TFM). A sample, for example, a single crystal, is adjustably positioned proximate to the surface of the TFM, using a translation stage such that the distance between the sample and the surface is selectively adjusted. A cryostat is provided with a first separate thermal stage provided for cooling the TFM and with a second separate thermal stage provided for cooling sample. | 08-29-2013 |
20130130095 | SURFACE STABILIZED ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A stabilized electrode comprising a metal oxide or lithium-metal-oxide electrode material is formed by contacting a surface of the electrode material, prior to cell assembly, with an aqueous or a non-aqueous acid solution having a pH greater than 4 but less than 7 and containing a stabilizing salt, to etch the surface of the electrode material and introduce stabilizing anions and cations from the salt into said surface. The structure of the bulk of the electrode material remains unchanged during the acid treatment. The stabilizing salt comprises fluoride and at least one cationic material selected from the group consisting of ammonium, phosphorus, titanium, silicon, zirconium, aluminum, and boron. | 05-23-2013 |
20130118078 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING CATALYST FUNCTION IN AUTO-THERMAL AND PARTIAL OXIDATION REFORMER-BASED PROCESSORS - The invention provides a method for reforming fuel, the method comprising contacting the fuel to an oxidation catalyst so as to partially oxidize the fuel and generate heat; warming incoming fuel with the heat while simultaneously warming a reforming catalyst with the heat; and reacting the partially oxidized fuel with steam using the reforming catalyst. | 05-16-2013 |
20130085062 | NOVEL FORMULATION OF HEXA-ALUMINATES FOR REFORMING FUELS - The invention is directed to a catalyst and a method for making a reforming catalyst for the production of hydrogen from organic compounds that overcomes the problems of catalyst poisoning and deactivation by coking and high temperature sintering, yet provides excellent durability and a long working life in process use. An embodiment is the formation of a unique four-metal ion hexa-aluminate of the formula M1 | 04-04-2013 |
20130085061 | BIMETALLIC ALLOY ELECTROCATALYSTS WITH MULTILAYERED PLATINUM-SKIN SURFACES - Compositions and methods of preparing a bimetallic alloy having enhanced electrocatalytic properties are provided. The composition comprises a PtNi substrate having a surface layer, a near-surface layer, and an inner layer, where the surface layer comprises a nickel-depleted composition, such that the surface layer comprises a platinum skin having at least one atomic layer of platinum. | 04-04-2013 |
20130084451 | METHOD FOR PATTERNING NANO PARTICLES - The invention provides a simple and inexpensive method to assemble nanomaterials into millimeter lengths. The method can be used to generate optical, sensing, electronic, magnetic and or catalytic materials. Also provided is a substrate comprised of fused nanoparticles. The invention also provides a diode comprised of assembled nanoparticles. | 04-04-2013 |
20130084444 | METHOD FOR FABRICATION OF CRACK-FREE CERAMIC DIELECTRIC FILMS - The invention provides a process for forming crack-free dielectric films on a substrate. The process comprise the application of a dielectric precursor layer of a thickness from about 0.3 μm to about 1.0 μm to a substrate. The deposition is followed by low temperature heat pretreatment, prepyrolysis, pyrolysis and crystallization step for each layer. The deposition, heat pretreatment, prepyrolysis, pyrolysis and crystallization are repeated until the dielectric film forms an overall thickness of from about 1.5 μm to about 20.0 μm and providing a final crystallization treatment to form a thick dielectric film. Also provided was a thick crack-free dielectric film on a substrate, the dielectric forming a dense thick crack-free dielectric having an overall dielectric thickness of from about 1.5 μm to about 20.0 μm. | 04-04-2013 |
20130084436 | SIMPLE METHOD TO FABRICATE NANO-POROUS DIAMOND MEMBRANES - A method to fabricate nanoporous diamond membranes and a nanoporous diamond membrane are provided. A silicon substrate is provided and an optical lithography is used to produce metal dots on the silicon substrate with a predefined spacing between the dots. Selective seeding of the silicon wafer with nanodiamond solution in water is performed followed by controlled lateral diamond film growth producing the nanoporous diamond membrane. Back etching of the under laying silicon is performed to open nanopores in the produced nanoporous diamond membrane. | 04-04-2013 |
20130084420 | METHOD FOR MAKING PARTICLE/POLYMER COMPOSITES AND APPLICATIONS - The invention provides a method for producing bioinert biocompatible diamond particles/polymer composites or any other matrix (e.g. glass, metal, plastic, ceramic and more)/diamond particle composites, even if not biocompatible with outstanding mechanical, tribological, and biological properties, the method comprising selecting a polymer having a melting temperature below about 300 C; mixing diamond particles with the polymer to form a liquid mixture, poring the liquid diamond particle/polymer or any other diamond particle/matrix composite in liquid form into a mold and then causing the composite to sinter with the diamond particles densely and uniformly distributed through the bulk and surface of the composite, such that the diamond particles distributed on the surface can form a diamond layer covering the surface. | 04-04-2013 |
20130083882 | METHODS FOR PRODUCING Cu-67 RADIOISOTOPE WITH USE OF A CERAMIC CAPSULE FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides a method for producing Cu67 radioisotope suitable for use in medical applications. The method comprises irradiating a metallic zinc-68 (Zn68) target within a sealed ceramic capsule with a high energy gamma ray beam. After irradiation, the Cu67 is isolated from the Zn68 by any suitable method (e.g. chemical and or physical separation). In a preferred embodiment, the Cu67 is isolated by sublimation of the zinc in a ceramic sublimation tube to afford a copper residue containing Cu67. The Cu67 can be further purified by chemical means. | 04-04-2013 |
20130083880 | ELECTRON LINAC FOR MEDICAL ISOTOPE PRODUCTION WITH IMPROVED ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ISOTOPE RECOVERY - A method and isotope linac system are provided for producing radio-isotopes and for recovering isotopes. The isotope linac is an energy recovery linac (ERL) with an electron beam being transmitted through an isotope-producing target. The electron beam energy is recollected and re-injected into an accelerating structure. The ERL provides improved efficiency with reduced power requirements and provides improved thermal management of an isotope target and an electron-to-x-ray converter. | 04-04-2013 |
20130082219 | Method for Producing Highly Conformal Transparent Conducting Oxides - A method for forming a transparent conducting oxide product layer. The method includes use of precursors, such as tetrakis-(dimethylamino) tin and trimethyl indium, and selected use of dopants, such as SnO and ZnO for obtaining desired optical, electrical and structural properties for a highly conformal layer coating on a substrate. Ozone was also input as a reactive gas which enabled rapid production of the desired product layer. | 04-04-2013 |
20130081947 | BIOPROCESS UTILIZING CARBON DIOXIDE AND ELECTRODEIONIZATION - A method for producing succinic acid is provided, which comprises circulating a fermentation broth containing succinate ion through an electrodeionization apparatus. The apparatus comprises an anode; a cathode; a stacked ion-exchange assembly comprising a one or more oriented ion-exchange units between the anode and the cathode. Each ion-exchange unit comprises a porous ion-exchange resin wafer including an inlet and an outlet together are adapted to circulate a liquid reaction stream containing a carboxylate anion from a fermentor through the resin wafer; a flow-distributing gasket for circulating a product stream through a product reservoir; an anion exchange membrane for transporting at least a portion of the carboxylate anion to the product stream; and a bipolar ion-exchange membrane to direct protons toward the cathode and into the product stream and to direct hydroxyl ions toward the anode and into the reaction stream in the resin wafer of an adjacent ion-exchange unit. | 04-04-2013 |
20130081540 | LOW-COST METHOD FOR FABRICATING PALLADIUM AND PALLADIUM-ALLOY THIN FILMS ON POROUS SUPPORTS - A process for forming a palladium or palladium alloy membrane on a ceramic surface by forming a pre-colloid mixture comprising a powder palladium source, carrier fluid, dispersant and a pore former and a binder. Ultrasonically agitating the precolloid mixture and applying to a substrate with an ultrasonic nozzle and heat curing the coating form a palladium-based membrane. | 04-04-2013 |
20130079577 | AUTOGENIC REACTION SYNTHESIS OF PHOTOCATALYSTS FOR SOLAR FUEL GENERATION - In one preferred embodiment, a photocatalyst for conversion of carbon dioxide and water to a hydrocarbon and oxygen comprises at least one nanoparticulate metal or metal oxide material that is substantially free of a carbon coating, prepared by heating a metal-containing precursor compound in a sealed reactor under a pressure autogenically generated by dissociation of the precursor material in the sealed reactor at a temperature of at least about 600° C. to form a nanoparticulate carbon-coated metal or metal oxide material, and subsequently substantially removing the carbon coating. The precursor material comprises a solid, solvent-free salt comprising a metal ion and at least one thermally decomposable carbon- and oxygen-containing counter-ion, and the metal of the salt is selected from the group consisting of Mn, Ti, Sn, V, Fe, Zn, Zr, Mo, Nb, W, Eu, La, Ce, In, and Si. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079262 | NOVEL MATERIALS AS ADDITIVES FOR ADVANCED LUBRICATION - This invention relates to carbon-based materials as anti-friction and anti-wear additives for advanced lubrication purposes. The materials have various shapes, sizes, and structures and are synthesized by autogenic reactions under extreme conditions of high temperature and pressure. The lubricant compositions comprise carbon-based particles suspended in a liquid hydrocarbon carrier. Optionally, the compositions further comprise a surfactant (e.g., to aid in dispersion of the carbon particles). Specifically, the novel lubricants have the ability to significantly lower friction and wear, which translates into improved fuel economies and longer durability of mechanical devices and engines. | 03-28-2013 |
20130078518 | Electrode Structures and Surfaces For Li Batteries - This invention relates to positive electrode materials for electrochemical cells and batteries. It relates, in particular, to electrode precursor materials comprising manganese ions and to methods for fabricating lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials and structures using the precursor materials, notably for lithium cells and batteries. More specifically, the invention relates to lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials with layered-type structures, spinel-type structures, combinations thereof and modifications thereof, notably those with imperfections, such as stacking faults and dislocations. The invention extends to include lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials with modified surfaces to protect the electrode materials from highly oxidizing potentials in the cells and from other undesirable effects, such as electrolyte oxidation, oxygen loss and/or dissolution. | 03-28-2013 |
20130078145 | SEMICONDUCTOR-BASED DETECTION AND DECONTAMINATION SYSTEM - A system for identifying and making quantitative determinations with respect to deposits on a portion of the system, determining that the deposit is a contaminant, and decontaminating at least the portion of the system is described. The system uses an embedded controller. It further includes an embedded sensing portion monitoring an atmosphere above the sensing portion. The sensing portion communicates with at least said controller and detects a quantity of the deposits. The sensing portion can be a film layer on a surface. The system also includes an embedded self-decontaminating portion. | 03-28-2013 |
20130077759 | METHOD FOR SPATIALLY MODULATING X-RAY PULSES USING MEMS-BASED X-RAY OPTICS - A method and apparatus are provided for spatially modulating X-rays or X-ray pulses using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based X-ray optics. A torsionally-oscillating MEMS micromirror and a method of leveraging the grazing-angle reflection property are provided to modulate X-ray pulses with a high-degree of controllability. | 03-28-2013 |
20130075648 | Interface colloidal robotic manipulator - A magnetic colloidal system confined at the interface between two immiscible liquids and energized by an alternating magnetic field dynamically self-assembles into localized asters and arrays of asters. The colloidal system exhibits locomotion and shape change. By controlling a small external magnetic field applied parallel to the interface, structures can capture, transport, and position target particles. | 03-28-2013 |
20130071670 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING THIN FILM ELECTRODES - The invention provides for A method for producing pure phase strontium ruthenium oxide films, the method comprising solubilizing ruthenium-containing and strontium-containing compounds to create a mixture; subjecting the mixture to a first temperature above that necessary for forming RuO | 03-21-2013 |
20130056363 | ULTRA-FAST BORIDING OF METAL SURFACES FOR IMPROVED PROPERTIES - A method of ultra-fast boriding of a metal surface. The method includes the step of providing a metal component, providing a molten electrolyte having boron components therein, providing an electrochemical boriding system including an induction furnace, operating the induction furnace to establish a high temperature for the molten electrolyte, and boriding the metal surface to achieve a boride layer on the metal surface. | 03-07-2013 |
20130052542 | ELECTROLYTE COMPOSITIONS FOR LITHIUM AND LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrolyte composition for a lithium or lithium-ion battery comprising a lithium salt in a liquid carrier comprising (a) a linear alkyl carbonate solvent, a cyclic alkyl carbonate solvent, or a combination thereof, and (b) a glycerol carbonate derivative compound of Formula (I): | 02-28-2013 |
20130050860 | Resonance-shifting luminescent solar concentrators - An optical system and method to overcome luminescent solar concentrator inefficiencies by resonance-shifting, in which sharply directed emission from a bi-layer cavity into a glass substrate returns to interact with the cavity off-resonance at each subsequent reflection, significantly reducing reabsorption loss en route to the edges. In one embodiment, the system comprises a luminescent solar concentrator comprising a transparent substrate, a luminescent film having a variable thickness; and a low refractive index layer disposed between the transparent substrate and the luminescent film. | 02-28-2013 |
20130033234 | FREQUENCY BASED ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGE CONTROLLER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING DEMAND RESPONSE AND REGULATION SERVICES TO POWER GRID USING FREQUENCY DETECTION - Frequency responsive charging for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and battery electric vehicles (BEV), a frequency sensing charging system and a method are provided for implementing demand response and regulation services to power grid using frequency detection for a frequency-based charge controller for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and battery electric vehicles (BEV). A frequency of the power grid is continuously monitored and compared to a predefined tolerance band by a frequency sensor. Responsive to the frequency being outside the predefined tolerance band, the frequency is applied to a programmable logic controller. The programmable logic controller uses the applied frequency to identify a control action. A charge controller and a switch coupled to a battery charger receive respective identified control actions for controlling the battery charger. | 02-07-2013 |
20130022874 | POSITIVE ELECTRODE FOR A LITHIUM BATTERY - A method for producing a lithium alkali transition metal oxide for use as a positive electrode material for lithium secondary batteries by a precipitation method. The positive electrode material is a lithium alkali transition metal composite oxide and is prepared by mixing a solid state mixed with alkali and transition metal carbonate and a lithium source. The mixture is thermally treated to obtain a small amount of alkali metal residual in the lithium transition metal composite oxide cathode material. | 01-24-2013 |
20130017613 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXTRACTION OF STRONTIUM FROM URINEAANM KAMINSKI; Michael D.AACI LockportAAST ILAACO USAAGP KAMINSKI; Michael D. Lockport IL USAANM MERTZ; Carol J.AACI Downers GroveAAST ILAACO USAAGP MERTZ; Carol J. Downers Grove IL USAANM SHKROB; Ilya A.AACI ChicagoAAST ILAACO USAAGP SHKROB; Ilya A. Chicago IL USAANM DIETZ; Mark L.AACI EvanstonAAST ILAACO USAAGP DIETZ; Mark L. Evanston IL USAANM HAWKINS; Cory A.AACI ShorewoodAAST WIAACO USAAGP HAWKINS; Cory A. Shorewood WI US - The present invention provides an apparatus and rapid methods for extracting strontium ions from urine to provide a concentrated and purified strontium-90 extract suitable for scintillation measurements. The methods remove organic compounds, pigments, and alkali metal ions that can interfere with quantitative determination of strontium-90 in urine. A method of the invention comprises acidifying urine and removing organic pigments therefrom, loading a known quantity of so-treated urine onto a diphosphonic acid-based ion-exchange resin; flowing aqueous methanesulfonic acid through the diphosphonic acid-based ion-exchange resin to elute alkali metal ions therefrom; eluting strontium ions off of the diphosphonic acid-based resin and on to a strontium extraction chromatographic resin with a concentrated aqueous nitric acid solution; subsequently flowing water or a dilute acid stripping solution through the strontium extraction resin to strip the strontium from the strontium extraction resin; and collecting the strontium-containing stripping solution eluting from the strontium extraction resin. | 01-17-2013 |
20130000764 | MULTI-LAYER MICRO/NANOFLUID DEVICES WITH BIO-NANOVALVES - A user-friendly multi-layer micro/nanofluidic flow device and micro/nano fabrication process are provided for numerous uses. The multi-layer micro/nanofluidic flow device can comprise: a substrate, such as indium tin oxide coated glass (ITO glass); a conductive layer of ferroelectric material, preferably comprising a PZT layer of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) positioned on the substrate; electrodes connected to the conductive layer; a nanofluidics layer positioned on the conductive layer and defining nanochannels; a microfluidics layer positioned upon the nanofluidics layer and defining microchannels; and biomolecular nanovalves providing bio-nanovalves which are moveable from a closed position to an open position to control fluid flow at a nanoscale. The micro/nano fabrication process for fabricating a multi-layer micro/nanofluidic flow device can comprise: forming a conductive layer on a substrate; forming an electrode pattern; forming a nanofluidics layer with a nanochannel pattern to define nanochannels; forming a microfluidics layer with a microchannel pattern to define microchannels; and assembling the microfluidics layer on the nanofluidics layer. The micro/nano fabrication process can include: synthesizing a thin film of PZT on ITO glass, electron beam lithography, sputtering, spin-coating, photolithography, and plasma treatment. | 01-03-2013 |
20120315207 | SYNTHESIS OF METAL BORIDES - Methods for the synthesis of metal borides. Metal boride compounds synthesized by those methods are also disclosed. | 12-13-2012 |
20120263998 | ELECTRODE STRUCTURES AND SURFACES FOR Li BATTERIES - This invention relates to positive electrode materials for electrochemical cells and batteries. It relates, in particular, to electrode precursor materials comprising manganese ions and to methods for fabricating lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials and structures using the precursor materials, notably for lithium cells and batteries. More specifically, the invention relates to lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials with layered-type structures, spinel-type structures, combinations thereof and modifications thereof, notably those with imperfections, such as stacking faults and dislocations. The invention extends to include lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials with modified surfaces to protect the electrode materials from highly oxidizing potentials in the cells and from other undesirable effects, such as electrolyte oxidation, oxygen loss and/or dissolution. | 10-18-2012 |
20120257324 | MULTILAYER CAPACITORS, METHOD FOR MAKING MULTILAYER CAPACITORS - The invention provides a stacked capacitor configuration comprising subunits each with a thickness of as low as 20 microns. Also provided is combination capacitor and printed wire board wherein the capacitor is encapsulated by the wire board. The invented capacitors are applicable in micro-electronic applications and high power applications, whether it is AC to DC or DC to AC, or DC to DC. | 10-11-2012 |
20120256332 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING ENHANCED OPTICS FABRICATION - A system and method are provided for implementing enhanced optics fabrication for making a concave focusing optical lens with a selected material of a crystal or an amorphous material and a support member. A cut-out is formed in the support member with a depth based upon the final, desired curvature of the concave focusing optical lens. The cut-out is partially filled with an epoxy and the selected crystal or amorphous material is placed on top thereby creating a quasi-vacuum seal. A vacuum pump is connected to the support member, providing a set vacuum level until the epoxy has hardened and the selected crystal or amorphous material has achieved its final curvature. Vacuum pressure is substantially uniformly applied to the crystal, providing substantially uniform stresses on the surface of the final concave focusing optical lens. | 10-11-2012 |
20120231352 | AUTOGENIC PRESSURE REACTIONS FOR BATTERY MATERIALS MANUFACTURE - A lithium- or lithium-ion electrochemical cell of the present invention comprises a lithium-containing cathode, an anode, and a non-aqueous lithium-containing electrolyte therebetween; wherein one or more of the anode and/or the cathode comprises at least one particulate carbon material comprising nanoparticles of the surface of individual carbon particles, wherein the nanoparticles are selected from one or more of (a) a metal oxide or sulfide comprising one or more metal ions selected from the group consisting of Ti, Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Mo, W, In, and Sn; (b) one or more metals selected from the group consisting of Ti, Fe, Co, Mg, Al, Ga, In, and Sn; and (c) one or more metaloid selected from the group consisting of B, Si, Ge, and Sb. | 09-13-2012 |
20120218857 | MICROFLUIDIC MIXER, METHOD FOR MIXING FLUIDS - The invention provides a fluid mixer comprising a substrate defining channels having varying widths and depths, wherein the channels have a total mixing distance of from about 50 microns to 1 millimeter. Also provided is a method for mixing fluids, the method comprising: directing a plurality of fluids to a mixing channel having a first width and a first depth; redirecting the directed plurality of fluids to a mixing channel having a second width smaller than the first width and having a second depth greater than the first depth; and repeating the process. | 08-30-2012 |
20120197005 | CONTAINERLESS SYNTHESIS OF AMORPHOUS AND NANOPHASE ORGANIC MATERIALS - The invention provides a method for producing a mixture of amorphous compounds, the method comprising supplying a solution containing the compounds; and allowing at least a portion of the solvent of the solution to evaporate while preventing the solute of the solution from contacting a nucleation point. Also provided is a method for transforming solids to amorphous material, the method comprising heating the solids in an environment to form a melt, wherein the environment contains no nucleation points; and cooling the melt in the environment. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193685 | RF-MEMS Capacitive Switches With High Reliability - A reliable long life RF-MEMS capacitive switch is provided with a dielectric layer comprising a “fast discharge diamond dielectric layer” and enabling rapid switch recovery, dielectric layer charging and discharging that is efficient and effective to enable RF-MEMS switch operation to greater than or equal to 100 billion cycles. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193684 | Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Films with Optimized Dielectric Properties for Advanced RF MEMS Capacitive Switches - An efficient deposition process is provided for fabricating reliable RF MEMS capacitive switches with multilayer ultrananocrystalline (UNCD) films for more rapid recovery, charging and discharging that is effective for more than a billion cycles of operation. Significantly, the deposition process is compatible for integration with CMOS electronics and thereby can provide monolithically integrated RF MEMS capacitive switches for use with CMOS electronic devices, such as for insertion into phase array antennas for radars and other RF communication systems. | 08-02-2012 |
20120183837 | ELECTRODE MATERIALS FOR SODIUM BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrode material suitable for use as a cathode in a sodium electrochemical cell or battery, the electrode comprising a layered material of formula Na | 07-19-2012 |
20120181486 | PROCESS FOR REMEDIATION OF PLASTIC WASTE - A single step process for degrading plastic waste by converting the plastic waste into carbonaceous products via thermal decomposition of the plastic waste by placing the plastic waste into a reactor, heating the plastic waste under an inert or air atmosphere until the temperature of about 700° C. is achieved, allowing the reactor to cool down, and recovering the resulting decomposition products therefrom. The decomposition products that this process yields are carbonaceous materials, and more specifically carbon nanotubes having a partially filled core (encapsulated) adjacent to one end of the nanotube. Additionally, in the presence of a transition metal compound, this thermal decomposition process produces multi-walled carbon nanotubes. | 07-19-2012 |
20120160999 | HIGH COLLECTION EFFICIENCY X-RAY SPECTROMETER SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRON BEAM STOP, ELECTRON DETECTOR AND X-RAY DETECTOR FOR USE ON ELECTRON-OPTICAL BEAM LINES AND MICROSCOPES - An X-ray spectrometer systems and methods are provided for implementing signal detection for use on electron-optical beam lines and microscopes. The X-ray Spectrometer System (XSS) includes an X-ray detector (XD) measuring the X-ray signal and positioned proximate to a specimen. An environmental isolation window together with an electron beam stop is disposed between XD and the specimen. The environmental isolation window and the electron beam stop protect XD from electrons directly transmitted through the specimen. An electron detector is located between the electron beam stop and the specimen allowing the measurement of scattered electrons. The XD measures an X-ray signal in the X-ray spectrometer system. | 06-28-2012 |
20120141860 | SURFACE STABILIZED ELECTRODES FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES - A method of stabilizing a metal oxide or lithium-metal-oxide electrode comprises contacting a surface of the electrode, prior to cell assembly, with an aqueous or a non-aqueous acid solution having a pH greater than 4 but less than 7 and containing a stabilizing salt, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to etch the surface of the electrode and introduce stabilizing anions and cations from the salt into said surface. The structure of the bulk of the electrode remains unchanged during the acid treatment. The stabilizing salt comprises fluoride and at least one cationic material selected from the group consisting of ammonium, phosphorus, titanium, silicon, zirconium, aluminum, and boron. | 06-07-2012 |
20120107671 | AMORPHOUS TITANIA/CARBON COMPOSITE ELECTRODE MATERIALS - An isolated salt comprising a compound of formula (H | 05-03-2012 |
20120077076 | HETEROAROMATIC-BASED ELECTROLYTES FOR LITHIUM AND LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrolyte for lithium and/or lithium-ion batteries comprising a lithium salt in a liquid carrier comprising heteroaromatic compound including a five-membered or six-membered heteroaromatic ring moiety comprising carbon atoms and at least one heteroatom forming a neutral aromatic ring, the at least one heteroatom being selected from a Group V element (preferably N) and a Group VI element (preferably O or S), the heteroaromatic ring moiety bearing least one carboxylic ester or carboxylic anhydride substituent bound to at least one carbon atom of the heteroaromatic ring. Preferred heteroaromatic ring moieties include pyridine compounds, pyrazine compounds, pyrrole compounds, furan compounds, and thiophene compounds. | 03-29-2012 |
20120037629 | LID ACTUATION SYSTEM FOR SHIELDED CASK - A lid system for a shielding cask is provided, the system comprising a plurality of contiguous panels, each panel is axially actuated by a first lift piston located laterally from the casks' longitudinal principal axis, and rotated about the cask by a ‘hinge’ piston at approximately 90 degrees along an arc from the first piston, the arc formed by a portion of the lip of the cask. | 02-16-2012 |
20110302830 | ENGINEERED PHOTOSYNTHETIC BACTERIA, METHOD OF MANUFACTURE OF BIOFUELS - The invention provides for a novel type of biofuel; a method for cleaving anchors from photosynthetic organisms; and a method for producing biofuels using photosynthetic organisms, the method comprising identifying photosynthesis co-factors and their anchors in the organisms; modifying the organisms to increase production of the anchors; accumulating biomass of the organisms in growth media; and harvesting the anchors. | 12-15-2011 |
20110299752 | METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING DEPTH DECONVOLUTION ALGORITHM FOR ENHANCED THERMAL TOMOGRAPHY 3D IMAGING - A computer-implemented method, apparatus, and computer program product implement enhanced thermal tomography three-dimensional (3D) thermal effusivity imaging. Experimental thermal imaging data is acquired. A response function is derived and a convolution formulation is constructed from the experimental thermal imaging data. A deconvolution solution procedure is implemented that includes constructing a matrix solution equation with a damping parameter, and solving the matrix solution equation with a selected number of iterations to construct a plurality of effusivity images. Using the novel depth deconvolution algorithm with experimental data acquired from a one-sided pulsed thermal-imaging system provides greater sensitivity for internal sample features substantially eliminating degradation in depth resolution. | 12-08-2011 |
20110260064 | ON AXIS SAMPLE VISUALIZATION ALONG A SYNCHRONTRON PHOTO BEAM - The present invention provides a method for on-axis visualization of a target placed in a photon beam, the method comprising: placing the target in the path of the photon beam; selecting a mirror with an external reflecting surface; placing the mirror on a mirror support so that the surface faces the target; placing a reflective microscope so as to collect photons emanating from the target that have been reflected by said surface; counting and analyzing photons collected by the microscope with a CCD camera; and storing and analyzing data collected by the camera. | 10-27-2011 |
20110200154 | PRODUCTION OF ISOTOPES USING HIGH POWER PROTON BEAMS - The invention provides for a method for producing isotopes using a beam of particles from an accelerator, whereby the beam is maintained at between about 70 to 2000 MeV; and contacting a thorium-containing target with the particles. The medically important isotope | 08-18-2011 |
20110194975 | SEMICONDUCTOR-BASED DETECTION AND DECONTAMINATION SYSTEM - A system and method for identifying and making quantitative determinations of different deposits on a portion thereof, determining that the deposit is a contaminant and decontaminating at least the portion of the system is disclosed. The system comprises a controller, a sensing portion and a decontamination portion. The controller contains information about at least one noncontaminant. The sensing portion communicates with at least the controller and the portion of the system and is adapted to detect the deposit. The decontaminating portion communicates with at least the controller and is adapted to decontaminate the portion of the system. | 08-11-2011 |
20110194662 | ACCELERATOR-BASED METHOD OF PRODUCING ISOTOPES - The invention provides a method using accelerators to produce radio-isotopes in high quantities. The method comprises: supplying a “core” of low-enrichment fissile material arranged in a spherical array of LEU combined with water moderator. The array is surrounded by substrates which serve as multipliers and moderators as well as neutron shielding substrates. A flux of neutrons enters the low-enrichment fissile material and causes fissions therein for a time sufficient to generate desired quantities of isotopes from the fissile material. The radio-isotopes are extracted from said fissile material by chemical processing or other means. | 08-11-2011 |
20110130324 | METHODS FOR SYSTEMATIC CONTROL OF PROTEIN STABILITY - Methods and compositions to control the stability of proteins with special emphasis on antibodies and proteins with antibody-like structures, e.g., having an “immunoglobulin-like” fold, are described. Controlling the stability facilities different applications for a protein with the same function, but different stability. | 06-02-2011 |
20110117445 | ELECTROLYTES FOR LITHIUM AND LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - The present invention provides an electrolyte for lithium and lithium-ion batteries comprising a lithium salt such as LiF | 05-19-2011 |
20110104576 | LITHIUM-OXYGEN ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS AND BATTERIES - A lithium-oxygen electrochemical cell of the invention comprises a lithium-containing anode, an oxygen-permeable cathode, a non-aqueous electrolyte comprising a lithium salt in a non-aqueous liquid between the anode and the cathode, and a source of gaseous oxygen in fluid communication with the cathode; the cathode comprising an oxygen-permeable support bearing carbon nanotubes having at least one open end. In some embodiments, the cell is rechargeable and the cathode includes a nanoparticulate catalyst in contact with the carbon nanotubes; wherein the catalyst is adapted to facilitate the reversible interconversion between oxygen gas and an oxygen anion e.g., oxide ion, peroxide ion, or a combination thereof, during charge and discharge of the cell. | 05-05-2011 |
20110104553 | AUTOGENIC PRESSURE REACTIONS FOR BATTERY MATERIALS MANUFACTURE - A lithium- or lithium-ion electrochemical cell of the present invention comprises a lithium-containing cathode, an anode, and a non-aqueous lithium-containing electrolyte therebetween; wherein one or more of the anode and the cathode comprises at least one particulate carbon-containing material selected from the group consisting of one or more carbon-coated metal oxide or metal phosphate particles, carbon-containing metals that alloy with Li, carbon-containing metalloids that alloy with Li, or rounded carbon particles such as carbon spheres, prolate-shaped spheroids, oblate-shaped spheroids, and carbon nanotubes. In a preferred embodiment, the particulate carbon material is prepared by reacting one or more solid, solvent-free chemical precursor materials comprising the elements making up the material in an enclosed autogenic pressure reactor in which the precursor materials are dissociated and reacted at elevated temperature, thereby creating self-generated pressure within the reactor. | 05-05-2011 |
20110104551 | NANOTUBE COMPOSITE ANODE MATERIALS SUITABLE FOR LITHIUM ION BATTERY APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides a composite material suitable for use in an anode for a lithium ion battery, the composite material comprising a layer of a lithium-alloying material on the walls of an aligned nanotubular base material. Preferably, the lithium-alloying material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Si, Sn, Pb, Al, Au, Pt, Zn, Cd, Ag, Mg, and a combination of two or more of the foregoing. | 05-05-2011 |
20110064964 | MECHANICAL DESIGN OF LAMINAR WEAK-LINK ROTARY MECHANISMS WITH TEN-DEGREE-LEVEL TRAVEL RANGE AND TEN-NANORADIAN-LEVEL POSITIONING RESOLUTION - Enhanced mechanical designs are provided for weak-link rotary mechanisms for implementing angular rotations with a defined angular travel range and positioning resolution, for example, with ten-degree-level travel range and ten-nanoradian-level positioning resolution. A weak-link rotary structure has a predetermined pattern for implementing angular rotations with repeatable and reliable angular travel range and positioning resolution including a plurality of connecting links radially extending from a central portion with a predefined angular separation between the connecting links; each said connecting link having at least one pair of weak-link connections; alternate connecting links being coupled to a respective terminal, each said respective terminal being mounted to a connecting carriage; remaining other connecting links being coupled to a respective mounting portion of a mating part of the weak-link rotary structure. | 03-17-2011 |
20110045969 | SUBNANOMETER AND NANOMETER CATALYSTS, METHOD FOR PREPARING SIZE-SELECTED CATALYSTS - Highly uniform cluster based nanocatalysts supported on technologically relevant supports were synthesized for reactions of top industrial relevance. The Pt-cluster based catalysts outperformed the very best reported ODHP catalyst in both activity (by up to two orders of magnitude higher turn-over frequencies) and in selectivity. The results clearly demonstrate that highly dispersed ultra-small Pt clusters precisely localized on high-surface area supports can lead to affordable new catalysts for highly efficient and economic propene production, including considerably simplified separation of the final product. The combined GISAXS-mass spectrometry provides an excellent tool to monitor the evolution of size and shape of nanocatalyst at action under realistic conditions. Also provided are sub-nanometer gold and sub-nanometer to few nm size-selected silver catalysts which possess size dependent tunable catalytic properties in the epoxidation of alkenes. Invented size-selected cluster deposition provides a unique tool to tune material properties by atom-by-atom fashion, which can be stabilized by protective overcoats. | 02-24-2011 |
20110005302 | DEVICE AND METHOD TO SAMPLE AND ENRICH IMPURITIES IN HYDROGEN - Provided herein are methods and devices to enrich trace quantities of impurities in gaseous mixtures, such as hydrogen fuel. The methods and devices rely on concentration of impurities so as to allow the detection of the impurities using commonly-available detection methods. | 01-13-2011 |
20100322382 | PIN BASE SENSOR FOR HIGH-THROUGHPUT MACROMOLECULAR CRYSTALLOGRAPHY - Sensing methods and a compact, sample holding pin base sensor are provided for detecting if a sample pin is, for example, properly mounted on a goniometer used for automated, high throughput macromolecular crystallography. A first magnet is used for holding a magnetic base; a second magnet is disposed spaced apart from the first magnet. The first magnet and the second magnet have opposite orientation. A Hall-effect switch is located generally centrally between the first magnet and the second magnet. A state of the Hall-effect switch indicates if a sample pin is properly mounted on a mounting member, such as a goniometer. | 12-23-2010 |
20100320388 | MICROSCOPIC INFRARED ANALYSIS BY X-RAY OR ELECTRON RADIATION - An infrared (IR) emission spectroscopy and microscopy apparatus with X-ray excitation or electron excitation and an improved process for extending spatial relation of infrared (IR) microscopy and performing microscopic infrared (IR) analysis by X-ray or electron radiation are provided. By utilizing nanometer sized X-ray beams or electron beams to produce IR emission, the spatial resolution of IR microscopy is extended. Simultaneously performing X-ray or electron-based spectroscopy as well as structural studies are enabled. | 12-23-2010 |
20100302706 | METHOD FOR FABRICATION OF CERAMIC DIELECTRIC FILMS ON COPPER FOILS - The present invention provides a method for fabricating a ceramic film on a copper foil. The method comprises applying a layer of a sol-gel composition onto a copper foil. The sol-gel composition comprises a precursor of a ceramic material suspended in 2-methoxyethanol. The layer of sol-gel is then dried at a temperature up to about 250° C. The dried layer is then pyrolyzed at a temperature in the range of about 300 to about 450° C. to form a ceramic film from the ceramic precursor. The ceramic film is then crystallized at a temperature in the range of about 600 to about 750° C. The drying, pyrolyzing and crystallizing are performed under a flowing stream of an inert gas. In some embodiments an additional layer of the sol-gel composition is applied onto the ceramic film and the drying, pyrolyzing and crystallizing steps are repeated for the additional layer to build up a thicker ceramic layer on the copper foil. The process can be repeated one or more times if desired. | 12-02-2010 |
20100300894 | CARBON DIOXIDE CAPTURE USING RESIN-WAFER ELECTRODEIONIZATION - The present invention provides a resin-wafer electrodeionization (RW-EDI) apparatus including cathode and anode electrodes separated by a plurality of porous solid ion exchange resin wafers, which when in use are filled with an aqueous fluid. The apparatus includes one or more wafers comprising a basic ion exchange medium, and preferably includes one or more wafers comprising an acidic ion exchange medium. The wafers are separated from one another by ion exchange membranes. The fluid within the acidic and/or basic ion exchange wafers preferably includes, or is in contact with, a carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzyme to facilitate conversion of bicarbonate ion to carbon dioxide within the acidic medium. A pH suitable for exchange of CO | 12-02-2010 |
20100290961 | Hydrogen transport membranes for dehydrogenation reactions - A method of converting C | 11-18-2010 |
20100285390 | CATALYTIC MEMBRANES FOR CO OXIDATION USED IN FUEL CELLS - A fuel cell of the present invention comprises a cathode and an anode, one or both of the anode and the cathode including a catalyst comprising a bundle of longitudinally aligned graphitic carbon nanotubes including a catalytically active transition metal incorporated longitudinally and atomically distributed throughout the graphitic carbon walls of said nanotubes. The nanotubes also include nitrogen atoms and/or ions chemically bonded to the graphitic carbon and to the transition metal. Preferably, the transition metal comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, Ni, Mn, and Cr. | 11-11-2010 |
20100233573 | METHOD OF FABRICATING ELECTRODE CATALYST LAYERS WITH DIRECTIONALLY ORIENTED CARBON SUPPORT FOR PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE FUEL CELL - A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of the invention comprises an anode and a cathode and a proton conductive membrane therebetween, the anode and the cathode each comprising a patterned sheet of longitudinally aligned transition metal-containing carbon nanotubes, wherein the carbon nanotubes are in contact with and are aligned generally perpendicular to the membrane, wherein a catalytically active transition metal is incorporated throughout the nanotubes. | 09-16-2010 |
20100230960 | GENDERLESS FLANGE FOR HIGH VACUUM WAVEGUIDES - A system of genderless flanges suitable for high vacuum waveguides is provided, comprising a metallic gasket between a pair of identical flanges where the configuration of the gasket conforms to within 100 microns to the cross-section of the inner surface of the waveguides. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing a mechanical junction for identical electromagnetic radiation waveguides, the method comprising: supplying a pair of identical flanges, each of said flanges defining an axially extending an inwardly facing axial surface defining a first aperture opening adapted to receive a waveguide, each of the flanges having an outwardly facing axial surface defining a second aperture opening with a perimeter equal to within 100 microns to the inner perimeter of the waveguides; inserting a first end of a first wave guide into the first aperture opening of a first of said flanges and inserting a first end of a second wave guide into the first aperture opening of a second of said flanges and permanently bonding the wave guides to their respective flanges; positioning each of said flanges such that the outwardly facing axial surfaces of the flanges oppose each other; positioning a gasket between the opposing surfaces, wherein the inner perimeter of the gasket is within 100 microns of the inner perimeter of the wave guide; and applying axial pressure to the outwardly facing axial surfaces of the flanges to provide a hermetic seal between the flanges. | 09-16-2010 |
20100227220 | LITHIUM-OXYGEN (AIR) ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS AND BATTERIES - This invention provides a lithium-oxygen or lithium-air electrochemical cell comprising a negative electrode, an electrolyte, and a porous activated positive electrode comprising lithium-rich electrocatalytic materials suitable for use in lithium-oxygen (air) cells and batteries. The activated positive electrode is produced by activating a precursor electrode formed from a material comprising one or more metal oxide compounds of general formula xLi | 09-09-2010 |
20100190058 | SURFACE PROTECTED LITHIUM-METAL-OXIDE ELECTRODES - A lithium-metal-oxide positive electrode having a layered or spinel structure for a non-aqueous lithium electrochemical cell and battery is disclosed comprising electrode particles that are protected at the surface from undesirable effects, such as electrolyte oxidation, oxygen loss or dissolution by one or more lithium-metal-polyanionic compounds, such as a lithium-metal-phosphate or a lithium-metal-silicate material that can act as a solid electrolyte at or above the operating potential of the lithium-metal-oxide electrode. The surface protection significantly enhances the surface stability, rate capability and cycling stability of the lithium-metal-oxide electrodes, particularly when charged to high potentials. | 07-29-2010 |
20100178232 | PROCESS FOR REMEDIATION OF PLASTIC WASTE - A single step process for degrading plastic waste by converting the plastic waste into carbonaceous products via thermal decomposition of the plastic waste by placing the plastic waste into a reactor, heating the plastic waste under an inert or air atmosphere until the temperature of 700° C. is achieved, allowing the reactor to cool down, and recovering the resulting decomposition products therefrom. The decomposition products that this process yields are carbonaceous materials, and more specifically egg-shaped and spherical-shaped solid carbons. Additionally, in the presence of a transition metal compound, this thermal decomposition process produces multi-walled carbon nanotubes. | 07-15-2010 |
20100175458 | Photoacoustic Spectroscopy System and Technique for Remote Sensing of Explosives and Toxic Chemicals - A user-friendly photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) system and process (technique) provides an open-field PAS instrument, unit and device to remotely sense explosives, chemicals and biological agents. The PAS system and process can include: a pulsed tunable laser, such as a CO | 07-15-2010 |
20100143784 | Manganese oxide composite electrodes for lithium batteries - An activated electrode for a non-aqueous electrochemical cell is disclosed with a precursor thereof a lithium metal oxide with the formula x{zLi | 06-10-2010 |
20100095590 | AUTOTHERMAL AND PARTIAL OXIDATION REFORMER-BASED FUEL PROCESSOR, METHOD FOR IMPROVING CATALYST FUNCTION IN AUTOTHERMAL AND PARTIAL OXIDATION REFORMER-BASED PROCESSORS - The invention provides a fuel processor comprising a linear flow structure having an upstream portion and a downstream portion; a first catalyst supported at the upstream portion; and a second catalyst supported at the downstream portion, wherein the first catalyst is in fluid communication with the second catalyst. Also provided is a method for reforming fuel, the method comprising contacting the fuel to an oxidation catalyst so as to partially oxidize the fuel and generate heat; warming incoming fuel with the heat while simultaneously warming a reforming catalyst with the heat; and reacting the partially oxidized fuel with steam using the reforming catalyst. | 04-22-2010 |
20100093049 | Biological methane production from coal, manure, sludge, wastes, or other carbonaceous feedstocks with simultaneous sequestration of co2 - The present invention provides a method for generating methane from a carbonaceous fuel source with simultaneous sequestration of carbon dioxide, the method comprising anaerobically incubating a particulate alkaline earth metal salt in contact with a particulate and/or dissolved carbonaceous feedstock in a neutral or alkaline aqueous culture medium containing a culture of methanogenic bacteria consortia and collecting methane generated therefrom. At least a portion of carbon dioxide produced during the incubation reacts with the alkaline earth metal salt to form an alkaline earth metal carbonate, thereby sequestering the carbon dioxide. | 04-15-2010 |
20100078363 | PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR SEPARATING SOLID MIXTURES - An elutriation column is installed in a separation tank. The elutriation column includes a vertical separation column having a first side feed arm and a second side overflow arm spaced above the first side feed arm. Water is forced upwardly through the vertical separation column at a controllable velocity. A solid feed mixture is fed through the first side feed arm to the vertical separation column. Water from the tank rising in the vertical separation column at the controlled velocity causes targeted floater materials to move upwardly in the vertical separation column and heavier sinker materials to continue to sink. The floater materials flow from an outlet in the side of the separation tank into the recovery tank. At a discharge, lower end of the vertical separation column, the heavier sinker materials are removed from the separation tank. A mechanism is provided for purging undesirable materials that can cause plugging from the feed arm. | 04-01-2010 |
20100074413 | DEVICE FOR OPTIMIZATION OF EXPERIMENTAL PARAMETERS ON SYNCHROTRON BEAM LINES - Enhanced methods and a device enabling a plurality of tools for implementing a plurality of procedures for the accurate alignment and calibration of multiple components of the experimental set up at a synchrotron beam line are provided. The device includes an alignment pin or needle for centering a sample rotation axis. The device includes a YAG crystal for visualization of the beam and beam alignment and a metal foil for transmission or fluorescence measurements used for the monochromator calibration. The same, or different foils, or powders, or polymers, can be used for obtaining powder rings for finding the direct beam coordinates, for centering the beamstop on the direct beam and for calibration of the sample-to-detector distance. | 03-25-2010 |
20100066036 | COMPRESSIVE COMPOSITE SEALS FOR SOFC APPLICATIONS - Compressive composite seals for solid oxide fuel cell applications are provided. A compressive composite seal structure includes a glass phase to provide a gas tight seal, a reinforcing secondary phase to provide mechanical stability, and a compressive core. The compressive core is filled with an inert gas or air, providing a degree of compressibility, or alternatively is filled with a selected material to provide a more specific degree of compressibility and strength, such as a lower melting point glass. The compressive composite seal structure maintains an effective seal during the operating conditions of the SOFC. The self healing glass phase with the reinforcing secondary phase providing mechanical stability provides an elastic response at high temperature, effectively reduces crack propagation and if the temperature or pressure goes too high, the seal remains reliable and effective. | 03-18-2010 |
20100064508 | METHOD OF SEALING A BIPOLAR PLATE SUPPORTED SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL WITH A SEALED ANODE COMPARTMENT - Methods of sealing a bipolar plate supported solid oxide fuel cell with a sealed anode compartment are provided. The solid oxide fuel cell includes a cathode, an electrolyte, and an anode, which are supported on a metallic bipolar plate assembly including gas flow fields and the gas impermeable bipolar plate. The electrolyte and anode are sealed into an anode compartment with a metal perimeter seal. An improved method of sealing is provided by extending the metal seal around the entire perimeter of the cell between an electrolyte and the bipolar plate to form the anode compartment. During a single-step high temperature sintering process the metal seal bonds to the edges of the electrolyte and anode layers, the metal foam flow field and the bipolar plate to form a gastight containment. | 03-18-2010 |
20100041570 | APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING NON-DESTRUCTIVE QUALITY CONTROL OF SUBSTRATES AND PRINTED BIOLOGICAL MICROARRAYS - A method and apparatus are provided for implementing non-destructive quality control of substrates and printed biological microarrays. A method and apparatus are provided for implementing quality control of gel-based microarrays prepared by dispensing a gel-forming composition on a solid substrate. The method utilizes the difference between the wettability properties of a supporting substrate and a gel, where the gel is hydrophilic. Condensation of vapor of a chemically inert water-soluble liquid, such as water or glycerol, on the surface of a substrate under inspection creates a layer of tiny droplets that affect both transmission and scattering of light on the surface. A pattern of condensation, characterized by spatial distribution, average size of the droplets and spacing between the droplets, reflects variation in wetting properties of the substrate. The pattern of condensation circumscribes printed microarray features to be non-destructively imaged and analyzed. | 02-18-2010 |
20100033323 | RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) SURVEILLANCE TAG - An enhanced method and apparatus are provided for tracking and managing a plurality of packagings, particularly packagings containing radioactive and fissile materials. A radio frequency identification (RFID) surveillance tag is provided with an associated packaging. The RFID surveillance tag includes a tag body and a back plate including predefined mounting features for mounting the surveillance tag to the associated packaging. The RFID surveillance tag includes a battery power supply. The RFID surveillance tag includes a plurality of sensors monitoring the associated packaging including a seal sensor. The seal sensor includes a force sensitive material providing a resistivity change responsive to change in a seal integrity change of the associated packaging. The resistivity change causes a seal integrity tag alarm. A tag memory stores data responsive to tag alarms generated by each of the plurality of sensors monitoring the associated packaging. | 02-11-2010 |
20100031822 | Hydrogen separation membrane on a porous substrate - A hydrogen permeable membrane is disclosed. The membrane is prepared by forming a mixture of metal oxide powder and ceramic oxide powder and a pore former into an article. The article is dried at elevated temperatures and then sintered in a reducing atmosphere to provide a dense hydrogen permeable portion near the surface of the sintered mixture. The dense hydrogen permeable portion has a higher initial concentration of metal than the remainder of the sintered mixture and is present in the range of from about 20 to about 80 percent by volume of the dense hydrogen permeable portion. | 02-11-2010 |
20100028234 | Methods for making and processing metal targets for producing Cu-67 radioisotope for medical applications - The present invention provides a method for producing Cu67 radioisotope suitable for use in medical applications. The method comprises irradiating a metallic zinc-68 (Zn68) target with a high energy gamma ray beam. After irradiation, the Cu67 is isolated from the Zn68 by any suitable method (e.g., chemical and/or physical separation). In a preferred embodiment, the Cu67 is isolated by sublimation of the zinc (e.g., at about 500-700° C. under reduced pressure) to afford a copper residue containing Cu67. The Cu67 can be further purified by chemical means (i.e., dissolution in acid, followed by ion exchange). | 02-04-2010 |
20090255276 | ENHANCED INTEGRATED OPERATION BLENDER BASED STERILE MEDICAL ICE SLURRY PRODUCTION DEVICE - A method and device are provided for the preparation of sterile medical ice slurry, for example having ice loadings of greater than approximately 50%. An integrated-operation ice slurry blender-based production and delivery system methods for monitoring cooling capacity of the produced and delivered slurry. All individual medical ice slurry production and delivery steps are integrated into one tightly coupled precisely sequenced and timed system. The novel procedure and equipment is simple to use and makes sterile slurry, which is ready to deliver to patients, for example, in less than 2 minutes after adding predetermined thermally preconditioned ingredient modules to a blender. | 10-15-2009 |
20090188842 | FRICTION BASED MATERIAL SORTER - A method and apparatus are provided for separating elastomeric materials from mixed material streams. A separator includes a bank of parallel rollers extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The bank of parallel rollers having a predefined inclination with the first end elevated higher than the second end. Mixed material streams are fed onto a top surface of the high end of the inclined parallel rollers. A material having less friction and elasticity slides down the inclined roller bank top surface are collected into a collection bin positioned adjacent the second, lower end of the roller bank. Other materials having a higher friction coefficient grip the rollers more and are lifted out of the valley due to friction migrating perpendicular to the rotating rollers and are collected in a collection bin positioned adjacent one side of the roller bank parallel to the longitudinal roller axis. | 07-30-2009 |
20090084159 | High-Performance Flexible Hydrogen Sensors - Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are decorated with metal nanoparticles to form high-performance flexible hydrogen sensors. The special process to form the high-performance flexible hydrogen sensors can combine a dry transfer printing technique and modification of SWNTs with palladium (Pd) nanoparticles to provide high-performance hydrogen sensors with excellent mechanical flexibility on plastic substrates. Two approaches can be used to decorate the SWNTs. One is physical deposition, such as electron beam evaporation (EBE) and the other is electrochemical deposition which can selectively grow palladium nanoparticles on the surface of the SWNTs, resulting in significantly decreasing the use of palladium. Preferably, the Pd nanoparticles are deposed on the SWNTs in a discontinuous arrangement so that the Pd nanoparticles are spaced away from each other to form individual discontinuous Pd nanoparticles rather a continuous Pd film. Advantageously, the SWNTs are arranged with substantial semiconducting pathways. Desirably, the high-performance flexible hydrogen sensors have an excellent response and recovery time, provide superior sensitivity for detecting hydrogen, and are bendable to conform to the contours of other structures. | 04-02-2009 |
20090081529 | Positive electrodes for lithium batteries - This invention provides lithium-rich compounds as precursors for positive electrodes for lithium cells and batteries. The precursors comprise a Li | 03-26-2009 |
20090078874 | Computed radiography system for mammography - A computed radiography system including a stimulating light source such as a laser, a photostimulable glass imaging plate (PGIP) substantially transparent to the stimulating light positioned such that the stimulating light impinges the PGIP perpendicularly thereto producing photostimulated luminescence light (PLL), a light collector having a light reflecting inner surface proximate the PGIP for collecting PLL emitted from the PGIP and having a hole or slot therein for admitting stimulating light into the light collector and onto the PGIP. An optical filter in communication with the light collector for blocking stimulating light waves and passing PLL therethrough. A light detector receives PLL from the optical filter and the light collector, mechanism providing relative movement between the PGIP and the stimulating light source, and mechanism including an analog to digital converter for converting the collected and detected PLL to a diagnostic readout. The system is particularly useful in mammography. | 03-26-2009 |
20090033935 | MAGNETO-OPTIC BIOSENSOR USING BIO-FUNCTIONALIZED MAGNETIZED NANOPARTICLES - A biosensor utilizing bio-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles is provided. An external magnetic field is applied to a suspension of magnetic nanoparticles. A linearly polarized incident light is applied to the suspension of magnetic nanoparticles. A photocurrent from polarized light scattering by bio-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles in liquid is detected. The magneto-optic sensing technique is applied to a micro-fluidic channel for rapid and sensitive detection with a small sample amount, and subsequent magnetic separation for detoxification. This technique is used for the detection of Brownian relaxation with time sweep as well as frequency sweep. The magneto-optical sensor enables rapidly detecting changes in local dynamic properties of the magnetic nanoparticles in liquids and magnetic modulation of ferromagnetic particles in liquid provides increased signal sensitivity. | 02-05-2009 |
20090004565 | Silver manganese vanadium oxide electrodes for lithium batteries - This invention relates to electrodes for non-aqueous lithium cells and batteries. More specifically, the invention relates to silver manganese vanadium oxide positive electrodes for such cells and batteries. The silver manganese vanadium oxide electrodes may contain substituents or dopants to improve the electrochemical properties of the electrodes, cells and batteries. The silver manganese vanadium oxide electrodes optionally contain silver powder and/or silver foil to assist in current collection at the electrodes and to improve the power capability of the cells or batteries. The invention also includes a method for preparing the electrodes by decomposition of a permanganate salt, such as AgMnO | 01-01-2009 |
20080266930 | Piezoelectrically actuated ultrananocrystalline diamond tip array integrated with ferroelectric or phase change media for high-density memory - A compact large density memory piezoactuated storage device and process for its fabrication provides an integrated microelectromechanical (MEMS) and/or nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) system and structure that features an integrated large density array of nanotips made of wear-resistant conductive ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) in which the tips are actuated via a piezoelectric thin film integrated with the UNCD tips. The tips of the special piezoactuated storage device effectively contact an underlying metal layer (top electrode) deposited on a polarizable ferroelectric layer that is grown on top of another metal layer (bottom electrode) to form a ferroelectric capacitor. Information is imprinted in the ferroelectric layer by the polarization induced by the application of a voltage pulse between the top and bottom electrodes through the conductive UNCD tips. This integrated microelectromechanical (MEMS) and/or nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) system and structure can be efficiently used to imprint data in the ferroelectric layer for memory storage with high density in the gigabit (Gb) to terabit (Tb) range. An alternative memory media to the ferroelectric layer can be a phase change material that exhibits two orders of magnitude difference in electrical resistance between amorphous and crystalline phases. | 10-30-2008 |
20080246368 | Integration of dissimilar materials for advanced multfunctional devices - A device including a layered heterostructure with an oxygen-containing material, with a carbon layer and an amorphous oxygen diffusion barrier protecting the carbon layer from etching by oxygen. One or more of a metal, a carbide or an oxide may be in contact with the amorphous oxygen diffusion barrier that has the lowest free energy of oxide formation in the device. Various devices are disclosed as are varieties of carbon allotropes. Methods of protecting carbon, such as diamond from the oxygen etching in processes such as device manufacture are also disclosed. | 10-09-2008 |
20080241965 | METHODS FOR VALIDATING THE PRESENCE OF AND CHARACTERIZING PROTEINS DEPOSITED ONTO AN ARRAY - A method of determining if proteins have been transferred from liquid-phase protein fractions to an array comprising staining the array with a total protein stain and imaging the array, optionally comparing the staining with a standard curve generated by staining known amounts of a known protein on the same or a similar array; a method of characterizing proteins transferred from liquid-phase protein fractions to an array including staining the array with a post-translational modification-specific (PTM-specific) stain and imaging the array and, optionally, after staining the array with a PTM-specific stain and imaging the array, washing the array, re-staining the array with a total protein stain, imaging the array, and comparing the imaging with the PTM-specific stain with the imaging with the total protein stain; stained arrays; and images of stained arrays. | 10-02-2008 |
20080241944 | METHOD OF MAKING GEL DROP PROTEIN BIOCHIPS - A method of making a gel drop protein chip by transferring proteins, which were obtained from a cellular lysate, partitioned using two-dimensional, protein fractionation, and mixed with a polymeric matrix solution containing acrylamide/bis and glycerol, to an array; a method of making a gel drop protein chip by transferring proteins, which were derivatized with N-hydroxysuccinimide ester of N-methacryloyl-6-aminocaproic acid (NHS monomer), and mixed with a polymeric matrix solution containing acrylamide/bis and glycerol, to an array; a gel drop protein chip containing proteins in a polymeric matrix solution containing acrylamide/bis glycerol; a method of using the gel drop protein chip to interrogate a sample; and a protein derivatized with the NHS monomer. | 10-02-2008 |