On the continuation for variational inequalities depending on an eigenvalue parameter

In this paper we generalize recent theoretical results on the local continuation of parameter-dependent non-linear variational inequalities. The variational inequalities are rather general and describe, for example, the buckling of beams, plates or shells subject to obstacles. Under a technical hypothesis that is satisfied by the simply supported beam, we obtain the existence of a continuation of both the solution and the eigenvalue with respect to a local parameter. A numerical continuation method is presented that easily overcomes turning points. Numerical results are presented for the non-linear beam.     

Standardization of Methods for Characterizing the Surface Geometry of Solids

Since a comprehensive survey published in 1999 [1] much work was done in standardizing measuring methods to characterize the surface geometry of dispersed and/or porous solids and to certify reference materials. The present paper is an extension of a short communication [2]. It gives a survey on existing standards and reports on new drafts and proposals.     

The use of an atomizer for chemical pleurodesis

Summary An atomizer had been designed that could create an aerosol of a liquid with high viscosity. The amount of additional driving gas that had to be used was very low. In a cooperation with the University Hospital in Zurich the atomizer was miniaturized and used for treating six patients.     

Polarization inscription in ferroelectric (111) PZT and (100) SBT films

Ferroelectric thin films form an equilibrium domain structure compatible with their respective crystallographic symmetry. In tetragonal (111) PZT, 90° domains prevail; in (pseudo-tetragonal) (100) SBT both 90° and 180° domains are present. The size of 90° domains has been measured for e.g., PZT as slabs of 15 nm width. Domain size is a result of stress minimization in the film during the paraelectric (PE) → ferroelectric (FE) transition. A precise and regular domain pattern for (111) PZT and (100) SBT films has been investigated in detail by TMSFM. Single domains can be addressed mechanically with the tip of an AFM. Such single domain switching corresponds to a data storage density of 200 Gbit/inch². Applications of ferroelectric and high- paraelectric materials for e.g., non-volatile data storage replacing DRAM devices or as sensors in infrared cameras are increasingly becoming popular.