Existence and uniqueness for nonlinear boundary value problems in kinetic theory

A boundary value problem for the stationary nonlinear Boltzmann equation in a slab has been examined in a weightedL space. It has been proved that the problem possesses a unique solution for boundary data small enough. The proof is based on the implicit function theorem. It has also been shown that for the linearized problem the Fredholm alternative applies.     

Physico-chemical characterization of nanofiltration membranes.

This study presents a methodology for an in-depth characterization of six representative commercial nanofiltration membranes. Laboratory-made polyethersulfone membranes are included for reference. Besides the physical characterization [molecular weight cut-off (MWCO), surface charge, roughness and hydrophobicity], the membranes are also studied for their chemical composition [attenuated total reflectance Fourier spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)] and porosity [positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS)]. The chemical characterization indicates that all membranes are composed of at least two different layers. The presence of an additional third layer is proved and studied for membranes with a polyamide top layer. PAS experiments, in combination with FIB (focused ion beam) images, show that these membranes also have a thinner and a less porous skin layer (upper part of the top layer). In the skin layer, two different pore sizes are observed for all commercial membranes: a pore size of 1.25-1.55 angstroms as well as a pore size of 3.20-3.95 angstroms (both depending on the membrane type). Thus, the pore size distribution in nanofiltration membranes is bimodal, in contrast to the generally accepted log-normal distribution. Although the pore sizes are rather similar for all commercial membranes, their pore volume fraction and hence their porosity differ significantly.     

Theoretical investigations on the solvation process

A model to facilitate the computation of the most stable conformer of associated M · H₂O (M being a polar molecule) which depends upon the electrostatic interaction energy between the two associated molecules is proposed and tested. SCF electrostatic potentials for the M molecule and a suitable point charge distribution for H₂O were employed in the model computations. Energies predicted by the model are found to be in good agreement with those resulting from an ab initio minimal STO basis SCF treatment of some conformations of the H₂O dimer.

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Zusammenfassung Ein Modell zur Durchführung der Berechnung des stabilsten Konformeren eines Assoziationskomplexes M · H₂O, wobei M ein polares Molekül ist, wird vorgeschlagen und untersucht. Es basiert auf der elektrostatischen Wechselwirkung zwischen beiden Partnern, und zwar wird für das Molekül M der elektrostatische Anteil seines SCF-Potentials und für H₂O eine angemessene Punktladungsverteilung zugrunde gelegt. Die resultierenden Energien sind in guter Übereinstimmung mit denen, die sich bei einer ab initio Rechnung mit minimaler STO Basis ergeben.

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Work performed with the financial support of the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, through its Laboratorio di Chimica Quantistica ed Energetica Molecolare.     

Cu+(H2) and Na+(H2) adducts in exchanged ZSM-5 zeolites

Cu(I) ions in Cu-ZSM-5 form Cu+(H2) complexes, stable at room temperature and sub-atmospheric H2 pressure, which do not have any homogeneous analogue except for matrix-isolated [Cu(eta2-H2)Cl]. Comparison with the unstable Na+(H2) adducts formed in the parent Na-ZSM-5 zeolite allow the conclusion that the Cu(I)/H2 bond is governed by sigma-pi overlap forces.     

UV stabilizers bonded to transition metals: Synthesis and X-ray structure of 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzotriazole-oxovanadium(IV) and -dioxomolybdenum(VI) complexes

The UV-stabilizer 2-(2′-hydroxy-5′-methylphenyl)benzotriazole (Tinuvin P, LH) has been used as a monoanionic bidentate ligand for complexing oxocations. Displacement of acacH from [VO(acac)₂] and [MoO₂(acac)₂] gave [*VO(acac)₂*(μ-L)] (2) and [cis-O₂Mo(acac)L] (3) respectively, as crystalline compounds. Their structure has been determined by an X-ray analysis showing the structural changes occurring upon coordination. The UV spectrum of Tinuvin P is significantly affected by complexation.     

Model reactions for stereochemistry of Ziegler-Natta polymerization: Asymmetric hydroisomerization of α-olefins by chiral titanium tetra-alkoxides/tri-isobutyl aluminum catalytic systems

Homogeneous catalytic systems based on optically active low-molecular-weight and macromolecular titanium alcoholates and tri-isobutyl aluminum were used in the isomerization and hydrogenation of chiral and prochiral olefins. The reactions performed in a nitrogen and hydrogen atmosphere show a different behavior in regard to reaction rate, composition of reaction mixture, and stereochemical control. The catalyst based on macromolecular titanium alcoholate displays lower activity and a varying influence on the stereochemical pathway with respect to the catalysts based on low- molecular-weight alcoholates. The data obtained in both cases strongly support the absence of a stereocontrol by the growing chain in the stereoelective polymerization of racemic α-olefins by Ziegler-Natta catalysts based on optically active precursors. Finally evidence is provided in favor of the intermediate step responsible for asymmetric isomerization which does not occur via η-allyl complex.     

Structure factors calculated from molecular wavefunctions. II. Analysis of the molecular charge distribution in diborane

The electron density distribution in the crystal of diborane has been determined using structure factors based on molecular densities. The libration-correction and third-cumulant terms have also been included in the expression for the temperature factor. The equilibrium r_e values for BH bond lengths obtained by this treatment are about 0.02Åshorter than the spectroscopic ones. A total librational motion of the diborane molecule is determined: the root-mean-square oscillations about inertial axis are 11.0° (8), 9.6° (5) and 7.2° (5), respectively. The dynamic theoretical deformation density shows a three-center BHB bond picture for the bridge structure.     

Proficiency testing programmes as a tool in food quality assurance: Overview of Italian experiences

Proficiency testing involves the performance of test procedures on routine samples by a number of laboratories. Interlaboratory proficiency testings provide multiple benefits to participants since they play a key-role in the total quality control of laboratory activities. They serve as a means of self-improving, as a mechanism of continuing education and as a source of information for accreditation agencies. This review highlights basic principles, benefits, criteria and capabilities of a proficiency testing programme for food analysis laboratories as well as their role in the implementation of rapidly developing food control legislation.     

Aged titania nanoparticles: the simultaneous control of local and long-range properties

TiO(2) nanoparticles are obtained by combining a sol-gel preparative route with hydrothermal aging steps, performed in mild conditions, of varying time lengths. Both aged and un-aged samples are thermally treated at 300 and 600 degrees C, for the same length of time. The crystal structures, the phase composition, and crystallite sizes are analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction. Raman spectra of anatase nanocrystals with average sizes of 7-10 nm are reported and the correlation between the Raman band shape of the main feature at 144 cm(-1) and the crystallite size is discussed. Nitrogen physisorption by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method is adopted to evaluate the particles surface area and mesopore size and size distribution. The role played by the hydrothermal step in affecting the physicochemical properties of the powders is discussed also with respect to the H(2)O/TiO(2) interactions as apparent from Raman spectroscopy investigations of the O-H stretching range (3000-3800 cm(-1)).     

Solid-state photodimerization of steroid enones

Androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (1) and 17alpha-methyltestosterone (2) are dimerized in the solid-state by UV radiation. These substances were selected by a search in the CSD among the steroid enones presenting in the crystalline state an intermolecular short contact between a hydrogen alpha to a carbonyl group and the oxygen of an enone system. Dimerization occurs by transfer of the hydrogen to the oxygen and connection between the two involved carbons. Androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (1) affords dimer 3 and trimer 4, both formed by connection of the C-16 of a molecule with the C-3 of a near one. Irradiation of 17alpha-methyltestosterone (2) gives the isomeric trienones 5 and 6. These compounds are reasonably formed by dehydration of unisolated intermediate products 7 and/or 8 obtained by coupling of two molecules through a linkage between the C-2 and the C-3' carbons. The formation mechanisms of the photoproducts are satisfactory explained on the basis of the molecular arrangement of the monomers in the crystal state. Modeling of the dimeric molecules was done using molecular mechanics calculations. A single-crystal X-ray of the dimer of androst-4-ene-3,17-dione confirms the structural interpretation of spectral data. The conformer found in the solid-state agrees well with the results of molecular mechanics calculations.