This book describes the characterization of liquid crystal materials at microwave frequencies and the usage of these materials in reconfigurable planar antennas and in their electrical tunable components. It reports for the first time the realization of a two-dimensional electronic beam steering antenna and polarization agile planar antennas with liquid crystal display technology. It gives a detailed description of all the theoretical analyses, modeling and design methods that were involved in the realization of these devices as well as their validation using measurement of demonstrative prototypes. This book also shows that low profile, low cost, high gain, electronic beam steering and polarization agile antennas can be fabricated in larger sizes by using existing automated liquid crystal display manufacturing techniques. The innovative ideas and method described in this work represent a considerable advancement in the field of electronically reconfigurable antennas based on liquid crystal technology and are expected to draw significant interest in the future. Such antennas may become important, for example, in mobile terminals integrated into the body of laptops (in the cover) or of automobiles (in the rooftop), ships or boats, for which flat, low-profile and low-cost antennas are required.

"The book comprehensively covers all the current and the emerging areas of the physics and the technology of high permittivity gate dielectric materials, including, topics such as MOSFET basics and characteristics, hafnium-based gate dielectric materials, Hf-based gate dielectric processing, metal gate electrodes, flat-band and threshold voltage tuning, channel mobility, high-k gate stack degradation and reliability, lanthanide-based high-k gate stack materials, ternary hafnia and lanthania based high-k gate stack films, crystalline high-k oxides, high mobility substrates, and parameter extraction. Each chapter begins with the basics necessary for understanding the topic, followed by a comprehensive review of the literature, and ultimately graduating to the current status of the technology and our scientific understanding and the future prospects." .

This book covers many advances in the subjects of nano-optics and nano photonics. The author describes the principle and technical schematics of common methods for breaking through the optical diffraction limit and focuses on realizing optical super-resolution with nonlinear effects of thin film materials. The applications of nonlinear optical super-resolution effects in nano-data storage, nanolithography, and nano-imaging are also presented. This book is useful to graduate students majoring in optics and nano science and also serves as a reference book for academic researchers, engineers, technical professionals in the fields of super-resolution optics and laser techniques, nano-optics and nano photonics, nano-data storage, nano imaging, micro/nanofabrication and nanolithography and nonlinear optics.

This book covers the latest advances in the techniques employed to manage the THz radiation and its potential uses. It has been subdivided in three sections: THz Detectors, THz Sources, Systems and Applications. These three sections will allow the reader to be introduced in a logical way to the physics problems of sensing and generation of the terahertz radiation, the implementation of these devices into systems including other components and finally the exploitation of the equipment for real applications in some different field. All of the sections and chapters can be individually addressed in order to deepen the understanding of a single topic without the need to read the whole book. The THz Detectors section will address the latest developments in detection devices based on three different physical principles: photodetection, thermal power detection, rectification. The THz Sources section will describe three completely different generation methods, operating in three separate scales: quantum cascade lasers, free electron lasers and non-linear optical generation. The Systems and Applications section will take care of introducing many of the aspects needed to move from a device to an equipment perspective: control of terahertz radiation, its use in imaging or in spectroscopy, potential uses in security, and will address also safety issues. The text book is at a level appropriate to graduate level courses up to researchers in the field who require a reference book covering all aspects of terahertz technology.

This book deals with the latest achievements in the field of ferroelectric domain engineering and characterization at micro- and nano-scale dimensions and periods. The book collects the results obtained in the last years by world scientific leaders in the field, thus providing a valid and unique overview of the state-of-the-art and also a view to future applications of those engineered and used materials in the field of photonics. The second edition covers the major aspects of ferroelectric domain engineering and combines basic research and latest updated applications such as challenging results by introducing either new as well as extended chapters on Photonics Crystals based on Lithium Niobate and Lithium Tantalate crystals; generation, visualization and controlling of THz radiation; latest achievements on Optical Parametric Oscillators for application in precise spectroscopy. Further more recent advancements in characterization by probe scanning microscopy and optical methods with device and technological orientation. A state-of-the-art report on periodically poled processes and their characterization methods are provided on different materials (LiNbO3, KTP) furnishing update research on ferroelectric crystal by extending materials research and applications.

Piezoresistor Design and Applications provides an overview of these MEMS devices and related physics. The text demonstrates how MEMS allows miniaturization and integration of sensing as well as efficient packaging and signal conditioning. This text for engineers working in MEMS design describes the piezoresistive phenomenon and optimization in several applications. Includes detailed discussion of such topics as; coupled models of mechanics, materials and electronic behavior in a variety of common geometric implementations including strain gages, beam bending, and membrane loading. The text concludes with an up-to-date discussion of the need for integrated MEMS design and opportunities to leverage new materials, processes and MEMS technology. Piezoresistor Design and Applications is an ideal book for design engineers, process engineers and researchers.

This book reflects the current status of theoretical and experimental research of graphene based nanostructures, in particular quantum dots, at a level accessible to young researchers, graduate students, experimentalists and theorists. It presents the current state of research of graphene quantum dots, a single or few monolayer thick islands of graphene. It introduces the reader to the electronic and optical properties of graphite, intercalated graphite and graphene, including Dirac fermions, Berry's phase associated with sublattices and valley degeneracy, covers single particle properties of graphene quantum dots, electron-electron interaction, magnetic properties and optical properties of gated graphene nanostructures. The electronic, optical and magnetic properties of the graphene quantum dots as a function of size, shape, type of edge and carrier density are considered. Special attention is paid to the understanding of edges and the emergence of edge states for zigzag edges. Atomistic tight binding and effective mass approaches to single particle calculations are performed. Furthermore, the theoretical and numerical treatment of electron-electron interactions at the mean-field, HF, DFT and configuration-interaction level is described in detail.

The chemistry and physics of group 14 elements such as silicon and germanium have been extensively studied, largely due to their fundamental importance in the development of semiconductor electronics. In addition, crystalline open-framework and nano-porous materials are attracting increasing attention for their potential technological applications. Inorganic open-framework materials comprised of group 14 elements crystallizing in crystal structures known as clathrates are of particular interest. These materials correspond to expanded forms, and in some cases metastable allotropes, of silicon, germanium and tin. The novel crystal structures these materials possess are intimately related to the unique physical properties they exhibit. Just as interesting as the structure and properties group 14 clathrates display is the diverse range of synthetic techniques developed to synthesize and grow single crystals of these materials. This volume will encompass many of these aspects and describe their potential for important technological applications.

Independent Variables for Optical Surfacing Systems discusses the characterization and application of independent variables of optical surfacing systems and introduces the basic principles of surfacing technologies and common surfacing systems. All the pivotal variables influencing surface quality are analyzed; evaluation methods for surface quality, the removal capability of tool influence functions, and a series of novel optical surfacing systems are introduced. The book also particularly focuses on the multi-path mode and dwell time used for deterministic surfacing. Researchers and graduate students working in optical engineering will benefit from this book; optical engineers in the industry will also find it a valuable reference work. Haobo Cheng is a professor at Beijing Institute of Technology.

This monograph solely investigates the Einstein's Photoemission(EP) from Heavily Doped(HD) Quantized Structures on the basis of newly formulated electron dispersion laws. The materials considered are quantized structures of HD non-linear optical, III-V, II-VI, Ge, Te, Platinum Antimonide, stressed materials, GaP, Gallium Antimonide, II-V, Bismuth Telluride together with various types of HD superlattices and their Quantized counterparts respectively. The EP in HD opto-electronic materials and their nanostructures is studied in the presence of strong light waves and intense electric fields that control the studies of such quantum effect devices. The suggestions for the experimental determinations of different important physical quantities in HD 2D and 3D materials and the importance of measurement of band gap in HD optoelectronic materials under intense built-in electric field in nano devices and strong external photo excitation (for measuring physical properties in the presence of intense light waves which alter the electron energy spectra) have also been discussed in this context. The influence quantizing magnetic field, on the EP of the different HD quantized structures (quantum wells, quantum well HD superlattices and nipi structures) under different physical conditions has been investigated. This monograph contains 100 open research problems which form the integral part of the text and are useful for both Ph.D aspirants and researchers in the fields of materials science, condensed matter physics, solid-state sciences, nano-science and technology and allied fields in addition to the graduate courses in modern semiconductor nanostructures offered in different Universities and Institutes.

This thesis deals with strongly luminescent lanthanide complexes having novel coordination structures. Luminescent lanthanide complexes are promising candidates as active materials for EL devices, lasers, and bio-sensing applications. The organic ligands in lanthanide complexes control geometrical and vibrational frequency structures that are closely related to the luminescent properties. In most of the previous work, however, lanthanide complexes have high-vibrational frequency C–H units close to the metal center for radiationless transition. In this thesis, the luminescent properties of lanthanide complexes with low-vibrational frequency C–F and P=O units are elucidated in terms of geometrical, vibrational, and chemical structures. The author also describes lanthanide coordination polymers with both high thermal stability (decomposition point > 300°C) and strong-luminescent properties (emission quantum yield > 80%). The author believes that novel studies on the characteristic structures and photophysical properties of lanthanide complexes may open up a frontier field in photophysical, coordination and material chemistry.

The aim of this book is to serve as a design reference for students and as an up-to-date reference for researchers. It also acts as an excellent introduction for newcomers to the field and offers established rf/microwave engineers a comprehensive refresher.  The content is roughly classified into two – the first two chapters provide the necessary fundamentals, while the last three chapters focus on design and applications. Chapter 2 covers detailed treatment of transmission lines. The Smith chart is utilized in this chapter as an important tool in the synthesis of matching networks for microwave amplifiers. Chapter 3 contains an exhaustive review of microstrip circuits, culled from various references. Chapter 4 offers practical design information on solid state amplifiers, while Chapter 5 contains topics on the design of modern planar filters, some of which were seldom published previously. A set of problems at the end of each chapter provides the readers with exercises which are compiled from actual university exam questions. An extensive list of references is available at the end of each chapter to enable readers to obtain further information on the topics covered.

This book presents a new system of solar cells. Colloidal nanocrystals possess many physical and chemical properties which can be manipulated by advanced control over structural features like the particle size. One application field is photovoltaics where colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals are explored as components of photo-active layers which can be produced from liquid media, often in combination with conductive polymers. The further development of this interdisciplinary field of research requires a deep understanding of the physics and chemistry of colloidal nanocrystals, conducting polymers and photovoltaic devices. This book aims at bridging gaps between the involved scientific disciplines and presents important fundamentals and the current state of research of relevant materials and different types of nanoparticle-based solar cells. The book will be of interest to researchers and PhD students. Moreover, it may also serve to accompany specialized lectures in related areas.

This book covers the basics, realization and materials for high power laser systems and high power radiation interaction with matter. The physical and technical fundamentals of high intensity laser optics and adaptive optics and the related physical processes in high intensity laser systems are explained. A main question discussed is: What is power optics? In what way is it different from ordinary optics widely used in cameras, motion-picture projectors, i.e., for everyday use? An undesirable consequence of the thermal deformation of optical elements and surfaces was discovered during studies of the interaction with powerful incident laser radiation. The requirements to the fabrication, performance and quality of optical elements employed within systems for most practical applications are also covered. The high-power laser performance is generally governed by the following: (i) the absorption of incident optical radiation (governed primarily by various absorption mechanisms), (ii) followed by a temperature increase and response governed primarily by thermal properties and (iii) the thermo-optical and thermo-mechanical response of distortion, stress, fracture, etc. All this needs to be understood to design efficient, compact, reliable and useful high power systems for many applications under a variety of operating conditions, pulsed, continuous wave and burst mode of varying duty cycles. The book gives an overview of an important spectrum of related topics like laser resonator configurations, intermetallic optical coatings, heat carriers for high power optics, cellular materials, high-repetition-rate lasers and mono-module disk lasers for high power optics.

Fundamentals of Nanoscaled Field Effect Transistors gives comprehensive coverage of the fundamental physical principles and theory behind nanoscale transistors. The specific issues that arise for nanoscale MOSFETs, such as quantum mechanical tunneling and inversion layer quantization, are fully explored. The solutions to these issues, such as high- technology, strained-Si technology, alternate devices structures and graphene technology are also given. Some case studies regarding the above issues and solution are also given in the book.

This book covers various aspects of lasers in materials science, including a comprehensive overview on basic principles of laser-materials interactions and applications enabled by pulsed laser systems. The material is organized in a coherent way, providing the reader with a harmonic architecture. While systematically covering the major current and emerging areas of lasers processing applications, the Volume provides examples of targeted modification of material properties achieved through careful control of the processing conditions and laser irradiation parameters. Special emphasis is placed on specific strategies aimed at nanoscale control of material structure and properties to match the stringent requirements of modern applications. Laser fabrication of novel nanomaterials, which expands to the domains of photonics, photovoltaics, sensing, and biomedical applications, is also discussed in the Volume. This book assembles chapters based on lectures delivered at the Venice International School on Lasers in Materials Science which was held in Isola di San Servolo, Venice, Italy, in July, 2012.

This book presents the fundamental scientific principles of long afterglow phosphorescent materials and a comprehensive review of both commercialized afterglow materials and the latest advances in the development of novel long afterglow materials. It is designed to supply much needed information about inorganic and organic afterglow materials, including detailed treatment of structure, classification, preparation techniques, characterization, surface modification chemistry, and optical measurements. Special attention is given to technological applications such as photovoltaics, photocatalytic reactions, and lighting and molecular sensing. Although traditional long afterglow phosphors have been widely investigated and used in industry, and significant efforts have recently been made toward the use of these materials for bioimaging, there is to date no scientific monograph dedicated to afterglow materials. This book not only provides a beginners' guide to the fundamentals of afterglow luminescence and materials, but also gives skilled researchers essential updates on emerging trends and efforts. The work provides a special focus on organic afterglow materials, which offer several advantages such as light-weight, flexible, and wide varieties; mild preparation conditions; and good processability. This book is aimed at postgraduate students, researchers, and technologists who are engaged in the synthesis, development, and commercialization of afterglow materials. It represents essential reading on interdisciplinary frontiers in the materials science, chemistry, photophysics, and biological aspects of afterglow materials.

Featuring an extensive 40 page tutorial introduction, this carefully compiled anthology of 65 of the most important papers on phase-locked loops and clock recovery circuits brings you comprehensive coverage of the field-all in one self-contained volume. You'll gain an understanding of the analysis, design, simulation, and implementation of phase-locked loops and clock recovery circuits in CMOS and bipolar technologies along with valuable insights into the issues and trade-offs associated with phase locked systems for high speed, low power, and low noise.

High-temperature and high-pressure treatment of diamond is becoming an important technology to elaborate diamonds. This is the first book providing a comprehensive review of the properties of HPHT-treated diamonds, based on the analysis of published data and the work of the authors. The book gives a detailed analysis of the physics of transformation of internal structures of diamonds subjected to HPHT treatment and discusses how these transformations can be detected using methods of optical microscopy and spectroscopy. It also gives practical recommendations for the recognition of HPHT-treated diamonds. The book is written in a language and terms which can be understood by a broad audience of physicists, mineralogists and gemologists.

This book addresses electronics and the rise of photonics, and asks what the future holds in store for this technology. It highlights the latest research on all types of solar cells and photonic devices, and a new approach combining photonics and electronics. Beyond simply explaining the existing systems or providing a synthesis of the current state of knowledge, the book also offers readers new perspectives for their own research. Lastly, drawing on the interconnections between electronics and photonics, the book suggests a possible means of using solar energy directly with the aid of future photonic devices.

This book provides a detailed introduction to organic radical polymers and open-shell macromolecules. Functional macromolecules have led to marked increases in a wide range of technologies, and one of the fastest growing of these fields is that of organic electronic materials and devices. To date, synthetic and organic electronic device efforts have focused almost exclusively on closed-shell polymers despite the promise of open-shell macromolecules in myriad applications. This text represents the first comprehensive review of the design, synthesis, characterization, and device applications of open-shell polymers. In particular, it will summarize the impressive synthetic and device performance efforts that have been achieved with respect to energy storage, energy conversion, magnetic, and spintronic applications. By combining comprehensive reviews with a wealth of informative figures, the text provides the reader with a complete "molecules-to-modules" understanding of the state of the art in open-shell macromolecules. Moreover, the monograph highlights future directions for open-shell polymers in order to allow the reader to be part of the community that continues to build the field. In this way, the reader will gain a rapid understanding of the field and will have a clear pathway to utilize these materials in next-generation applications.

Radio Frequency Micromachined Switches, Switching Networks, and Phase Shifters discusses radio frequency microelectromechanical systems (RF MEMS)-based control components and will be useful for researchers and R&D engineers. It offers an in-depth study, performance analysis, and extensive characterization on micromachined switches and phase shifters. The reader will learn about basic design methodology and techniques to carry out extensive measurements on MEMS switches and phase shifters which include electrical, mechanical, power handling, linearity, temperature stability, reliability, and radio frequency performance. Practical examples included in the book will help readers to build high performance systems/subsystems using micromachined circuits. Key Features Provides simple design methodology of MEMS switches and switching networks including SPST to SP16T switches Gives an in-depth performance study of micromachined phase shifters. Detailed study on reliability and power handling capability of RF MEMS switches and phase shifters presented Proposes reconfigurable micromachined phase shifters Verifies a variety of MEMS switches and phase shifters experimentally

"Ceramic Materials: Science and Engineering" is an up-to-date treatment of ceramic science, engineering, and applications in a single, comprehensive text. Building on a foundation of crystal structures, phase equilibria, defects, and the mechanical properties of ceramic materials, students are shown how these materials are processed for a wide diversity of applications in today's society. Concepts such as how and why ions move, how ceramics interact with light and magnetic fields, and how they respond to temperature changes are discussed in the context of their applications. References to the art and history of ceramics are included throughout the text, and a chapter is devoted to ceramics as gemstones. This course-tested text now includes expanded chapters on the role of ceramicsin industry and their impact on the environment as well asa chapter devoted to applications of ceramic materials in clean energy technologies. Also new are expanded sets of text-specific homework problems and other resources for instructors. The revised and updated Second Editionis further enhanced with color illustrations throughout the text."

This book addresses a range of complex issues associated with condition monitoring (CM), fault diagnosis and detection (FDD) in smart buildings, wide area monitoring (WAM), wind energy conversion systems (WECSs), photovoltaic (PV) systems, structures, electrical systems, mechanical systems, smart grids, etc. The book's goal is to develop and combine all advanced nonintrusive CMFD approaches on a common platform. To do so, it explores the main components of various systems used for CMFD purposes. The content is divided into three main parts, the first of which provides a brief introduction, before focusing on the state of the art and major research gaps in the area of CMFD. The second part covers the step-by-step implementation of novel soft computing applications in CMFD for electrical and mechanical systems. In the third and final part, the simulation codes for each chapter are included in an extensive appendix to support newcomers to the field.

This book presents some fundamental aspects of plasma technology that are important for beginners interested to start research in the area of plasma technology. These include the properties of plasma, methods of plasma generation and basic plasma diagnostic techniques. It also discusses several low cost plasma devices, including pulsed plasma sources such as plasma focus, pulsed capillary discharge, vacuum spark and exploding wire; as well as low temperature plasmas such as glow discharge and dielectric barrier discharge which the authors believe may have potential applications in industry. The treatments are experimental rather than theoretical, although some theoretical background is provided where appropriate. The principles of operation of these devices are also reviewed and discussed.