Dynamics of a polymer chain in an array of obstacles

On the basis of the model “polymer chain in an array of obstacles” the influence of the topology effects on the dynamics of concentrated polymer systems is investigated theoretically. The 1/z-expansion (where z is the coordinational number of the lattice of obstacles) is proposed for this problem. By means of this expansion the diffusion coefficient of a linear unclosed polymer chain is calculated. The equilibrium properties of linear closed chain (i.e. ring) unentangled with either of the edges of the lattice are investigated in detail. In particular, it is shown that the diffusion coefficient D of the center of mass of closed chain consisting of N links is proportional to N^−5/2.     

A multigrid method for predicting periodically fully developed flow

The use of multigrid methods in complex fluid flow problems is still under development. In this paper a full multigrid procedure has been incorporated in a finite volume solution for predicting fully developed fluid flow in a streamwise periodic geometry. Steady computations in two-dimensional body fitted co-ordinates have shown considerable savings in computation time by this multigrid method.     

Raman spectroscopy of carbon fibres

Investigations of coated carbon fibres are reported using Raman spectroscopy. Relationships between different process parameters (for example precursor concentration, reactor temperature and various precursors) and the resulting types of carbon fibres are discussed.     

Photoinduced electron transfer variables: rigidity or orientation?

The relatives photoreactives of bridged-ring systems 1, 3, 5-X and 6-X (X ≡ Cl or Br) have been studied at 254 nm in acetic acid. The formation of photosolvolysis product was rationalized in terms of photoinduced intramolecular electron transfer (ET) processes. The relative ease of ET in these donor—bridge—acceptor model system was analyzed in terms of known ET variables including free-energy changes, orientation effects and ridigity effects. The observed relative photoreactivities agreed better with the calculated free-energy changes when relative rigidities of the electron acceptor termini were evaluated. In general, the more rigid system were more photoreactive.     

Pressure-induced dislocation amorphization of crystals

In terms of the isotropic elastic crystal model, it is shown that the formation of planar layers consisting of edge dislocation pileups is advantageous in energy if the shear modulus of the crystal is far lower than the bulk modulus. As pressure rises, the dislocation radius decreases, which can destroy the crystal structure.     

Resonance ionization spectroscopy for trace analysis and fundamental research

Resonance ionization spectroscopy (RIS) and its combination with mass spectrometry (RIMS) have grown to become powerful techniques, which offer high sensitivity as well as elemental and isotopic selectivity. The principles of RIS and RIMS are introduced; they primarily concern the analysis of the optical spectra for the choice of efficient excitation schemes and the suitable design of the experimental apparatus. Recent applications span from studies of short-lived isotopes at on-line mass separators to a wide variety of trace analysis applications for radioactive isotopes, which can range from measurements of solar neutrino flux to environmental assessment.On leave from Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Richland, USA