Finite element simulation of wave propagation in an axisymmetric bar

An accurate solution for high-frequency pulse propagation in an axisymmetric elastic bar is obtained using a new finite element technique that yields accurate non-oscillatory solutions for wave propagation problems in solids. The solution of the problem is very important for the understanding of dynamics experiments in the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). In contrast to known approaches, no additional assumptions are necessary for the accurate solution of the considered problem. The new solution helps to elucidate the complicated distribution of parameters during high-frequency pulse propagation down the bar as well as to estimate the applicability of the traditional dispersion correction used in the literature for the analysis of wave propagation in a finite bar. Due to the dimensionless formulation of the problem, the numerical results obtained depend on Poisson's ratio, the length of the bar and the pulse frequency, and are independent of Young's modulus, the density and the radius of the bar.     

Convenient Synthesis of 1,3,6-Triene Systems Through Alkylation of 3-Methyl-3-sulfolene.

Abstract: Various 1,3,6-triene systems have been synthesised through alkylation of 3-methyl-3-sulfolene with conjugated aldehydes followed by silylation and subsequent desulfonylation. A new route to synthesis of (+/?)-α-chamigrene, isofokienol and 5-hydroxy-α-farnesene has been described.     

Sensing of Phosphates by Using Luminescent EuIII and TbIII Complexes: Application to the Microalgal Cell Chlorella vulgaris

Phenanthroline‐based chiral ligands L¹ and L² as well as the corresponding Eu^III and Tb^III complexes were synthesized and characterized. The coordination compounds show red and green emission, which was explored for the sensing of a series of anions such as F^?, Cl^?, Br^?, I^?, NO₃^?, NO₂^?, HPO₄^2?, HSO₄^?, CH₃COO^?, and HCO₃^?. Among the anions, HPO₄^2? exhibited a strong response in the emission property of both europium(III) and terbium(III) complexes. The complexes showed interactions with the nucleoside phosphates adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP). Owing to this recognition, these complexes have been applied as staining agents in the microalgal cell Chlorella vulgaris. The stained microalgal cells were monitored through fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Initially, the complexes bind to the outer cell wall and then enter the cell wall through holes in which they probably bind to phospholipids. This leads to a quenching of the luminescence properties.     

KOtBu‐Catalyzed Michael Addition Reactions Under Mild and Solvent‐Free Conditions

Designed transition metal complexes predominantly catalyze Michael addition reactions. Inorganic and organic base‐catalyzed Michael addition reactions have been reported. However, known base‐catalyzed reactions suffer from the requirement of solvents, additives, high pressure and also side‐reactions. Herein, we demonstrate a mild and environmentally friendly strategy of readily available KO^tBu‐catalyzed Michael addition reactions. This simple inorganic base efficiently catalyzes the Michael addition of underexplored acrylonitriles, esters and amides with (oxa‐, aza‐, and thia‐) heteroatom nucleophiles. This catalytic process proceeds under solvent‐free conditions and at room temperature. Notably, this protocol offers an easy operational procedure, broad substrate scope with excellent selectivity, reaction scalability and excellent TON (>9900). Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed that the reaction follows an ionic mechanism. Formal synthesis of promazine is demonstrated using this catalytic protocol.