SearcharxivSearch

arXiv subjects

Israel Perez

Publications and source records attributed to Israel Perez.

14 recordsLinked to original sources

Influence of Lithium Interstitial Doping on the Optoelectronic Properties of NiO and WO$_3$

First principles calculations through density functional theory (DFT)+$U$ method were performed to assess the effect of Li interstitial doping on the optoelectronic properties of NiO and of cubic, hexagonal, and monoclinic WO$_3$. The implications on the structural and electronic properties and their relationship with the optical properties, such as dielectric response and absorption coefficient in the context of electrochromism, are discussed. Li interstitial doping (i.e., electron doping) turns these materials metallic-like even for low Li concentration ($x<0.083$). In metallic-like materials, optical properties are largely influenced by intraband transitions. Compared to NiO, Li-doped NiO shows larger absorption in the visible region while, with respect to WO$_3$, Li-doped WO$_3$ exhibits an increment in absorption in the whole spectrum, particularly, in the infrared region. These results help to understand the changes in optical properties observed in electrochromic devices based on these materials.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci

Sputtering power effects on the electrochromic properties of NiO films

The effect of sputtering power ($P$=60 W-180 W) on the electrochromic properties of nickel oxide films deposited on ITO-coated glass substrates by the RF magnetron sputtering technique was investigated. Crystalline structure and morphology were assessed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The effect of sputtering power on electrochromism of the samples was evaluated with cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. We used LiClO$_4$ in propilene carbonate solution for Li insertion/extraction. The chemical composition of the samples before and after Li intercalation was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We observed the cubic phase of NiO with sputtering power mainly affecting crystallinity and grain size. These in turn affect the electrochromic properties. Coloration efficiency reduces from 24.4 cm$^{2}$/C to (15.4, 13.7. 16.1) cm$^{2}$/C and the reversibility from 40% to 30% as sputtering power increases from 60 W to 180 W. The impedance spectra indicates that ion diffusion is larger for the film grown at 60 W and then goes down for the films deposited at higher sputtering powers. XPS analysis reveals that higher values of $P$ promote the formation of nickel hydroxides on the film surface. As consequence of changes in crystallinity and morphology, the presence of nickel hydroxides increases, showing that not only the electrochromic properties of the samples are affected by the sputtering power but also their chemical composition.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci

Role of lithium intercalation in fluorine-doped tin oxide thin films: Ab-initio calculations and experiment

Using a combination of experimental techniques and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the influence of lithium insertion on the electronic and electrochemical properties of fluourine-doped SnO$_2$ (FTO) is assessed. For this purpose, we investigate the electrochromic behavior of commercial FTO electrode embedded in a solution of lithium perclorate (LiClO$_4$). The electrochromic properties are evaluated by UV-VIS spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and chronoamperometry. These tests show that FTO exhibits electrochromism with a respectable coloration efficiency ($η=47.9$ cm$^2$/C @ 637 nm). DFT study indicates that lithium remains ionized in the lattice, raising the Fermi level about 0.7 eV deep into the conduction band. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is used to study chemical bonding and oxidation states. XPS analysis of the Sn 3d core levels reveals that lithium insertion in FTO induces a shift of 350 meV in the Sn 3d states suggesting that lithium is incorporated into the SnO$_2$ lattice.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci

Design and construction of a compact rotary substrate heater for deposition systems

We have designed and constructed a compact rotary substrate heater for the temperature range from 25 $^\circ$C to 700 $^\circ$C. The heater can be implemented in any deposition system where crystalline samples are needed. Its main function is to provide a heat treatment in situ during film growth. The temperature is monitored and controlled by a temperature controller coupled to a type K thermocouple. A heater case was designed to host a resistive element and at the same time to allow the substrate holder to freely rotate. Rotation is crucial not only for film homogeneity during deposition but also for the elimination of temperature gradients on the substrate holder. To tolerate oxidizing and corrosive environments, the instrument was made of stainless steel which also works as "coolant" taking advantage of heat dissipation. The instrument performs well for long periods of time with stable temperatures. We hope that this project is useful for laboratories wishing to have a compact rotary heater that meets the requirements for crystal growth and film homogeneity.

physics.ins-det

Effect of Ion Bombardment on the Chemical Properties of Crystalline Tantalum Pentoxide Films

The effect of argon ion bombardment on the chemical properties of crystalline Ta$_2$O$_5$ films grown on Si(100) substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. All samples were irradiated for several time intervals [(0.5, 3, 6, 9) min] and the Ta $4f$ and O $1s$ core levels were measured each time. Upon analysis at the surface of the films, we observe the Ta $4f$ spectrum characteristic of Ta$_2$O$_5$. Irradiated samples exhibit the formation of Ta suboxides with oxidation states Ta$^{1+}$, Ta$^{2+}$, Ta$^{3+}$, Ta$^{4+}$, and Ta$^{5+}$. Exposing the films, after ion bombardment, to ambient for some days stimulates the amorphous phase of Ta$_2$O$_5$ at the surface suggesting that the suboxides of Ta are unstable. Using a sputtering simulation we discuss that these suboxides are largely generated during ion bombardment that greatly reduces the oxygen to tantalum ratio as the irradiation time increases. The computer simulation indicates that this is due to the high sputtering yield of oxygen.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci

Influence of post-deposition annealing on the chemical states of crystalline tantalum pentoxide films

We investigate the effect of post-deposition annealing (for temperatures from 848 K to 1273 K) on the chemical properties of crystalline Ta$_2$O$_5$ films grown on Si(100) substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The atomic arrangement, as determined by X-ray diffraction, is predominately hexagonal ($δ$-Ta$_2$O$_5$) for the films exposed to heat treatments at 948 K and 1048 K; orthorhombic ($β$-Ta$_2$O$_5$) for samples annealed at 1148 K and 1273 K; and amorphous for samples annealed at temperatures below 948 K. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for Ta $4f$ and O $1s$ core-levels were performed to evaluate the chemical properties of all films as a function of annealing temperature. Upon analysis, it is observed the Ta $4f$ spectrum characteristic of Ta in Ta$^{5+}$ and the formation of Ta-oxide phases with oxidation states Ta$^{1+}$, Ta$^{2+}$, Ta$^{3+}$, and Ta$^{4+}$. The study reveals that the increase in annealing temperature increases the percentage of the state Ta$^{5+}$ and the reduction of the others indicating that higher temperatures are more desirable to produce Ta$_2$O$_5$, however, there seems to be an optimal annealing temperature that maximizes the O\% to Ta\% ratio. We found that at 1273 K the ratio slightly reduces suggesting oxygen depletion.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci

Design and construction of a desktop AC susceptometer using an Arduino and a Bluetooth for serial interface

We designed and developed a desktop ac susceptometer for the characterization of materials. The system consists of a lock-in amplifier, an ac function generator, a couple of coils, a sample holder, a computer system with a designed software in freeware C++ code, and an Arduino card coupled to a bluetooth module. The Arduino/bluetooth serial interface allows the user to have a connection to almost any computer and thus avoids the problem of connectivity between the computer and the peripherals such as the lock-in amplifier and the function generator. The bluetooth transmitter/receiver used is a commercial device which is robust and fast. These new features reduce the size and increment the versatility of the susceptometer for it can be used with a simple laptop. To test our instrument we performed measurements on magnetic materials and show that the system is reliable at both room temperature and cryogenic temperatures (77 K). The instrument is suitable for any physics or engineering laboratory either for research or academic purposes.

physics.ins-det

Evidence for structural transition in crystalline tantalum pentoxide films grown by RF magnetron sputtering

We investigate the effect of annealing temperature on the crystalline structure and physical properties of tantalum-pentoxide films grown by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. For this purpose, several tantalum films were deposited and the Ta$_2$O$_5$ crystalline phase was induced by exposing the samples to heat treatments in air in the temperature range from (575 to 1000)$^\circ$C. Coating characterization was performed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and UV-VIS spectroscopy. By X-ray diffraction analysis we found that a hexagonal Ta$_2$O$_5$ phase generates at temperatures above $675^\circ$C. As the annealing temperature raises, we observe peak sharpening and new peaks in the corresponding diffraction patterns indicating a possible structural transition from hexagonal to orthorhombic. The microstructure of the films starts with flake-like structures formed on the surface and evolves, as the temperature is further increased, to round grains. We found out that, according to the features exhibited in the corresponding spectra, Raman spectroscopy can be sensitive enough to discriminate between the orthorhombic and hexagonal phases of Ta$_2$O$_5$. Finally, as the films crystallize the magnitude of the optical band gap increases from 2.4 eV to the typical reported value of 3.8 eV.

cond-mat.supr-con

The Preferred System of Reference Reloaded

According to Karl Popper assumptions are statements used to construct theories. During the construction of a theory whether the assumptions are either true or false turn out to be irrelevant in view of the fact that, actually, they gain their scientific value when the deductions derived from them suffice to explain observations. Science is enriched with assumptions of all kinds and physics is not exempted. Beyond doubt, some assumptions have been greatly beneficial for physics. They are usually embraced based on the kind of problems expected to be solved in a given moment of a science. Some have been quite useful and some others are discarded in a given moment and reconsidered in a later one. An illustrative example of this is the conception of light; first, according to Newton, as particle; then, according to Huygens, as wave; and then, again, according to Einstein, as particle. Likewise, once, according to Newton, a preferred system of reference (PSR) was assumed; then, according to Einstein, rejected; and then, here the assumption is reconsidered. It is claimed that the assumption that there is no PSR can be fundamentally wrong.

physics.class-ph

On the experimental determination of the one-way speed of light

In this contribution the question of the isotropy of the one-way speed of light from an experimental perspective is addressed. In particular, we analyze two experimental methods commonly used in its determination. The analysis is aimed at clarifying the view that the one-way speed of light cannot be determined by techniques in which physical entities close paths. The procedure employed here will provide epistemological tools such that physicists understand that a direct measurement of the speed not only of light but of any physical entity is by no means trivial. Our results shed light on the physics behind the experiments which may be of interest for both physicists with an elemental knowledge in special relativity and philosophers of science.

physics.class-ph

The Physics Surrounding the Michelson-Morley Experiment and a New Æther Theory

From the customary view the Michelson-Morley experiment is used to expose the failure of the aether theory. The key point in this experiment is the \emph{fringe shift} of the interference pattern. Regularly, the fringe shift calculations are only presented from the perspective of the inertial frame where the one-way speed of light is anisotropic which gives a partial vision of the problem. In a spirit of revision of these facts we have meticulously analyzed the physics behind them. As a result, an angular effect which is based on Huyghens principle and plays a fundamental role in the reflection of light waves at moving mirrors is incorporated. Moreover, under the assumption of a null result in the experiment, on the one hand, the fringe shift conditions demand actual relativistic effects; on the other, it is confirmed that Maxwell's electrodynamics and Galilean relativity are incompatible formulations. From these two points at least three inertial theories follow: (1) the special theory of relativity (SR), (2) a new aether theory (NET) based on the Tangherlini transformations and (3) emission theories based on Ritz' modification of electrodynamics. A brief review of their physical content is presented and the problem of the aether detection as well as the propagation of light, within the context of SR and the NET, are discussed. Despite the overwhelming amount of evidences that apparently favors SR we claim that there are no strong reasons to refuse the aether which conceived as a continuous material medium, still stands up as a physical reality and could be physically associated with dark matter, the cosmic background radiation and the vacuum condensates of particle physics.

physics.gen-ph

A physicist's view of the universe: a philosophical approach

Without a doubt many problems in physics arise as a consequence of our philosophical conception of the world. In this contribution however we endeavor to alleviate this scenario by putting forward a philosophical approach under which some of the most fundamental problems in modern physics might turn out to be fictitious. To accomplish such task we propound that everything that exists must be made up of \emph{matter} which not only makes up space and the universe but also is in constant change. For such reason the existence of total emptiness and material discontinuity are rejected. Here physical fields are assumed as a particular state of matter. And time is understood as the result of the intrinsic dynamics of the universe. Furthermore, the infiniteness of the universe is also discussed and its implications are briefly mentioned, e.g., the laws of conservation. Finally, the regularity of the physical laws is questioned. In summary four great problems (from the perspective of physics) are suggested to be deeply studied: (1) What is matter?, (2) Why does the universe change? (3) is the universe infinite in extension? and (4) are there really regular (invariant) laws of physics?

physics.gen-ph

Study of higher-order harmonics of complex ac susceptibility in $YB_2C_3O_{7-δ}$ thin films by the mutual inductive method

We have applied the mutual inductive method to study higher-order harmonics of complex ac susceptibility $χ_n=χ'_n-iχ"_n$ for $$YB_2C_3O_{7-δ}$ thin films as function of the temperature and the applied field. The experimental results were compared with analytical and numerical results obtained from the Ishida-Mazaki model and the solution of the integral equation for the current density, respectively. Both models allow us to reproduced the main experimental features, however, as $n$ increases the numerical model shows notable discrepancies. This failure can be attributed to the current-voltage characteristics. Also this investigation yields the activation energy $U_c$ and the critical current density $J_c$ for two samples both at T=0.

cond-mat.supr-con

Measured speed versus true speed

The theoretical predictions, derived from the Lorentz and the Tangherlini transformations, for the one-way speed of any physical entity are confronted with the corresponding expressions for the one-way measured speed obtained from a gedanken experiment. The experiment demonstrates that, for an inertial frame $K'$ in motion relative to an inertial frame $K$ where the one-way speed of light is isotropic, even the special theory of relativity renders the one-way speed of light as function of the velocity of $K'$ in agreement with the Tangherlini transformations. However, the two-way speed of light remains constant for all inertial frames, in agreement with the two-way experimental techniques. This implies that there must exist \emph{one and only one} inertial frame where the one-way speed of light is isotropic. These investigations also show how we can determine, with certain restrictions, the true speed of a physical entity and of the true speed of $K'$ relative to $K$.

physics.gen-ph