Non-Uniform Circumferential Expansion of Cylindrical Li-Ion Cells—The Potato Effect

This paper presents the non-uniform change in cell thickness of cylindrical Lithium (Li)-ion cells due to the change of State of Charge (SoC). Using optical measurement methods, with the aid of a laser light band micrometer, the expansion and contraction are determined over a complete charge and discharge cycle. The cell is rotated around its own axis by an angle of α=10° in each step, so that the different positions can be compared with each other over the circumference. The experimental data show that, contrary to the assumption based on the physical properties of electrode growth due to lithium intercalation in the graphite, the cell does not expand uniformly. Depending on the position and orientation of the cell coil, there are different zones of expansion and contraction. In order to confirm the non-uniform expansion around the circumference of the cell in 3D, X-ray computed tomography (CT) scans of the cells are performed at low and at high SoC. Comparison of the high resolution 3D reconstructed volumes clearly visualizes a sinusoidal pattern for non-uniform expansion. From the 3D volume, it can be confirmed that the thickness variation does not vary significantly over the height of the battery cell due to the observed mechanisms. However, a slight decrease in the volume change towards the poles of the battery cells due to the higher stiffness can be monitored.

A note on large deviations for unbounded observables

We consider exponential large deviations estimates for unbounded observables on uniformly expanding dynamical systems. We show that uniform expansion does not imply the existence of a rate function for unbounded observables no matter the tail behavior of the cumulative distribution function. We give examples of unbounded observables with exponential decay of autocorrelations, exponential decay under the transfer operator in each [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and strictly stretched exponential large deviation. For observables of form [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] periodic, on uniformly expanding systems we give the precise stretched exponential decay rate. We also show that a classical example in the literature of a bounded observable with exponential decay of autocorrelations yet with no rate function is degenerate as the observable is a coboundary.

A Stochastic Multiscale Peridynamic Model for Corrosion-induced Fracture in Reinforced Concrete

Concrete fracture caused by corrosion of reinforcing bars may cause subsequent structure failure. To better predict this process, we introduce a partially-homogenized stochastic peridynamic model with the simplest constitutive relation (linear elastic with brittle failure). The model links microscale information (phase volume fractions of mortar, aggregates, interfaces) to macroscale fracture behavior, while costing the same as a fully homogenized model. We show, and explain why a fully-homogenized peridynamic model fails to capture the correct concrete fracture modes/patterns, while the new model succeeds. The multiscale model predicts the evolution of fracture in reinforced concrete caused by corrosion products expansion in samples with a single or multiple rebars. Non-uniform expansion of corrosion products is enforced here as preset, incremental radial displacements. The computed fracture patterns and the order in which various cracks develop match what is seen in experiments. The model’s robustness is tested under different stochastic realizations and discretization grid types.

Distribution of forces on supporting teeth in the midpalatal expander during “Hyrax” screw pre-load

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine forces which are transferred to supporting teeth during the treatment with the midpalatal device with Hyrax screw and to evaluate orthodontic and orthopaedic effects based on displacement analysis. Design/methodology/approach: The finite element method (FEM) was used to simulation the midpalatal expansion forces activated by the screw pre-loaded during a turn of 180° which corresponds to daily recommended value. Distribution of expansion forces of Hyrax device was calculated as reaction forces on elastic supports with stiffness corresponding to the teeth working on periodontal ligament in alveolar bone. Findings: On the basis of the displacement analysis was observed the movement of supporting teeth by a value higher than 0.1 mm which corresponds to the recommended daily value. The midpalatal suture splitting forces were determined on the first premolars with a value of 32.8 N and on the first premolars of 44.2 N. Research limitations/implications: The studies did not take into account the shape of palate other craniofacial bones and their stiffness. Practical implications: Adjusting the stiffness of the device to degree of ossification midpalatal suture and teeth mobility. Searching for new solutions which eliminate the negative phenomenon of tilting teeth during the expansion of maxilla and recommending a surgically assisted techniques. Originality/value: The simulation confirmed that treatment with Hyrax screw gives a uniform expansion with values of forces corresponded to stiffness of premolar and molar teeth. The studies have indicated a possibility of tendency to tilting the supporting teeth what is a negative phenomenon.

Effects of Reactive MgO on the Reaction Process of Geopolymer

In order to compensate for the shrinkage of geopolymer pastes uniformly, reactive MgO powders are evenly dispersed in the geopolymer. The deformation performance, mechanical properties, microstructure and components of geopolymer pastes with reactive MgO are characterized. The effects of the content and the activity of MgO are discussed. The results indicate that the chemical shrinkage, autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage decrease with the addition of reactive MgO. MgO reacted with water, and fine Mg(OH)2 crystals forms as a geopolymer paste. Mg(OH)2 produces uniform expansion, which refines the pore size of pastes and the compressive strength increases. The shrinkage of the geopolymer pastes is thus effectively compensated.

Optimisation and validation of hydrogel-based brain tissue clearing shows uniform expansion across anatomical regions and spatial scales

ABSTRACTImaging of fixed tissue is routine in experimental neuroscience, but is limited by the depth of tissue that can be imaged using conventional methods. Optical clearing of brain tissue using hydrogel-based methods (e.g. CLARITY) allows imaging of large volumes of tissue and is rapidly becoming commonplace in the field. However, these methods suffer from a lack of standardised protocols and validation of the effect they have upon tissue morphology. We present a simple and reliable protocol for tissue clearing along with a quantitative assessment of the effect of tissue clearing upon morphology. Tissue clearing caused tissue swelling (compared to conventional methods), but this swelling was shown to be similar across spatial scales and the variation was within limits acceptable to the field. The results of many studies rely upon an assumption of uniformity in tissue swelling, and by demonstrating this quantitatively, research using these methods can be interpreted more reliably.