Raman spectroscopy is employed by NASA, and many others, to detect trace amounts of substances. Unfortunately, the Raman signal is generally too weak to detect when very small, but non-trivial, amounts of molecules are present. One way around this weak signal is to use surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). When used as substrates for SERS, metallic nanorods grown using physical vapor deposition (PVD) provide a large enhancement factor to the Raman signal, as much as 1012. However, Silver (Ag) nanorods that give high enhancement suffer from rapid degradation as a function of time and exposure to harsh environment. Exposure to harsh environments is an enormous issue for NASA; considering all environments experienced during space missions will be drastically different from Earth regarding atmosphere pressure, atmosphere composition, and environmental temperature. Au and Ag nanorods suffer from a thermochemical kinetic phenomenon where the surface atoms diffuse and cause the nanostructures to coalesce towards bulk structure. When in bulk, SERS enhancement is lost and the substrate becomes useless. A stable structure for SERS detection is designed through engineering the barriers to surface diffusion. Aluminum (Al) nanorods are forced to undergo surface diffusion through thermal annealing and form rough mounds with a stable terminating oxide layer. When Ag is deposited on top of this Al structure, it becomes kinetically bound and changes to physical structure become impeded. Using this paradigm, samples are grown with varied lengths of Ag and are then characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy. The performance of the samples are then tested using SERS experiments for the detection of trace amounts of rhodamine 6G, a ‘gold standard’ analyte. Characterization shows the effectiveness of the Raman substrates remains stable up to 500°C. Transitioning to basic scientific investigation, next is to strive to isolate the individual impacts of chemical and physical changes to the Ag nanostructure and how they affect the Raman signal. Substrates are compared over the course of a month long experiment to determine the effects of vacuum storage and addressing the effects of chemical adsorbance. Additionally, this was attempted by comparing the signal degradation of Ag nanorods to that of Au, which is known to be chemically inert, allowing for the separation of chemical and physical effects. Although Ag and Au have similar melting points, Ag physically coarsened significantly more. FTIR also showed significant chemical contamination of the Ag, but not Au. A hypothesis is proposed for future investigations into the chemical changes and how they are coupled with and promote the physical changes in nanostructures. Overall, the novel SERS substrate engineered here may enable the detection of trace amounts of molecules in harsh environments and over long timescales. Conditions such as those found on space missions, where substrates will experience months or years of travel, high vacuum environments, and environments of extreme temperatures.

No description available.

Si nanowires have potential applications in a variety of technologies such as micro and nanoelectronics, sensors, electrodes and photovoltaic applications due to their size and specific surface area. Au particle-assisted vapour-liquid-solid or VLS growth method remains the dominant process for Si nanowire growth. A comprehensive kinetic model that addresses all experimental observations and provides a physico-chemical model of the VLS growth method is thus essential. The work done as part of this research is divided into two sections. A steady state kinetic model was first developed for the steady state growth rate of Si nanowires using SiCl4 and SiH4 as precursors. The steady state refers to a balance between the rates of injection and ejection of Si into the Au droplet. This balance results in a steady state supersaturation under which wire growth proceeds. In particular evaporation and reverse reaction of Si from the Au droplet and modes of crystal growth for wire growth have been considered in detail for the first time. The model is able to account for both, the radius independent and radius dependent growth rates reported in the literature. It also shows that the radius dependence previously attributed to purely thermodynamic considerations could also as well be explained just by steady state kinetics alone. Expressions have been derived for the steady state growth rate that require the desolvation energy, activation energy for precursor dissociation and supersaturation prevalent in the particle as inputs for calculation. In order to evaluate this model the incubation and growth of Si nanowires were studied on sapphire substrates in an indigenously built automated MOCVD reactor. Sapphire was chosen as the substrate, as opposed to Si which is commonly used, so as to ensure that the vapour phase is the only source of Si. A classical incubation period for nucleation, of the order of 4-8 minutes, was experimentally observed for the first time. Using the change in this incubation period with temperature a value of 15kT was determined to be the desolvation energy for growth using SiH4. The steady state growth rate of Si nanowires were measured and compared with the predictions of the model using the values of activation energies so determined. The thesis based on the current research work is organized as follows: Chapter 1 introduces the research area followed by a brief outline of the overall work Chapter 2 provides a summary of current literature, and puts the research described in this thesis in perspective. The diameter dependent growth rate of NWs which was initially solely attributed to the Gibbs-Thomson effect is first summarized. Experimental observations to the contrary are then highlighted. These contradictions provided the incentive for the research described in this thesis. Following a summary of the growth rate theories, the experimental observations on incubation available in the literature are summarized. All the other variants of the VLS method are also discussed. Chapter 3 describes the design, construction and working of an indigenously built semi- automated CVD reactor. This CVD reactor was used to conduct the Si NW growth experiments over sapphire substrates. Chapter 4 develops the physical chemistry model for Au catalyzed Si nanowire growth using SiCl4 and SiH4 precursors. The model originated from the contradictions present in the literature over the rate limiting step of the VLS growth mechanism and the steady state growth rate dependence on wire diameter. The development starts with explaining the thermodynamics of the steady state VLS process. The significance of the model lies in the detailed analysis of the all the atomistic process occurring during the VLS growth. In particular the evaporation and reverse reaction of Si from Au-Si droplet is explained in detail and possibly for the first time. Expressions for steady state growth rate by various modes, such as layer by layer growth (LL), by multilayer growth (ML) and growth by movement of a rough interface at the L-S growth interface are derived and presented. Chapter 5 discusses the results which emerge out the kinetic model from the previous chapter. Under a single framework of equations, the model is successful in explaining both the diameter independent and diameter dependent growth of NWs. As one of the major outcomes of the model, the growth rates of Si NWs are predicted and trends in growth rate are found to agree with those experimentally observed. Growth rate dependencies on pressure and temperature are implicitly included in the equations derived. An estimate of supersaturation has been extracted for the first time using the framework of equations. Chapter 6 contains the experimental results of the Si NW growth over sapphire substrates. An incubation period in the order of 3-8 minutes has been observed for Si NW growth on sapphire. The data has been compared with existing literature data and interpreted using classical transient nucleation theory. The incubation period data has been utilized to extract the kinetic parameter, QD, which is the desolvation enegy. These parameters and the measured steady state growth rates have been used to estimate the supersaturation existing in the droplet using the framework developed in chapters 4 and 5. Chapter 7 summarizes the outcome of the current research and highlights the future directions for the research problem addressed in this thesis.

The cross-sectional form of semi-alluvial bedrock channels was investigated. Channel geometry data were collected from a variety of streams in Ontario and Québec, Canada to develop empirical downstream scaling relationships. The relationships revealed that bedrock, mixed, and alluvial channels scale at similar rates with respect to discharge. The widest channels were formed in low-relief sedimentary bedrock with minimal alluvial cover. Channels influenced by resistant igneous/metamorphic bedrock produced a strong scaling relationship, whereas channels influenced by weak sedimentary bedrock produced a weak scaling relationship. Alluvial cover appeared to exhibit more control on channel width in low-relief settings in comparison to high-relief settings, with increased alluvial cover promoting channel narrowing. Channels influenced by igneous/metamorphic bedrock produced identifiable thalwegs, presumably due to well-defined bedload transport pathways. Channels influenced by sedimentary bedrock tended to have planar beds. Additionally, fish habitat was investigated at one semi-alluvial bedrock stream in Ontario, Canada. Fish sampling was conducted at proximate bedrock and alluvial sections followed by a survey of physical habitat parameters to evaluate habitat preferences. Adult logperch (Percina caprodes), juvenile white sucker (Catostomus commersonii), adult round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), and adult longnose dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) demonstrated preference toward alluvial substrate, whereas juvenile logperch and adult banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) demonstrated preference toward bedrock. Juvenile silver shiner (Notropis photogenis) and juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens) were indifferent to substrate type. Empirical depth and flow velocity habitat suitability indices (HSIs) were developed for each fish species. This study presents the first fish habitat suitability criteria developed from a small semi-alluvial bedrock stream and may provide valuable information for fisheries management endeavours in such environments.

Recently, efforts have been made for self-powering the batteries and portable electronic devices by piezoelectric nanogenerators. The piezoelectric nanogenerators can work as a power source for nano-systems and also as an active sensor. The piezoelectric nanogenerator is a device that converts random mechanical energy into electrical energy by utilizing the semiconducting and piezoelectric properties. Also, the mechanical energy is always available in and around us for powering these nano devices. The aim of the present thesis work is to explore 1D and 2D ZnO nanostructures (nanorods and nanosheets) on metal alloy substrates for the development of piezoelectric nanogenerators in energy harvesting and sensors applications. Hydrothermal synthesis method was adopted for the growth of ZnO nanostructures. The nanogenerators were fabricated by using the optimized synthesis parameters and subsequently studied their performance for power generation and as an active speed sensor. These 1D and 2D nanostructures based nanogenerators have opened up a new window for the energy harvesting applications and sensors development. The thesis is divided into following six chapters. Chapter 1: This chapter gives a general introduction about energy harvesting devices such as nanogenerators, available energy sources, mechanical energy harvesting, ZnO material and the details on hydrothermal synthesis process. A brief literature survey on different applications of piezoelectric nanogenerators is also included. Chapter 2: A novel flexible metal alloy (Phynox) and its properties along with its applications are discussed in this chapter. Details on the synthesis of 1D ZnO nanorods on Phynox alloy substrate by hydrothermal method are presented. Further, the optimization of parameters such as growth temperature, seed layer annealing and substrate temperature effects on the synthesis of ZnO nanorods are discussed in detail. As-synthesized ZnO nanorods have been characterized using XRD, FE-SEM, TEM and XPS. Chapter 3: It reports on the fabrication of piezoelectric nanogenerator on Phynox alloy substrate as power generating device by harvesting the mechanical energy. Initially, the performance of the nanogenerator for power generation due to finger tip impacts was studied and subsequently its switching polarity test was also carried out. Output voltage measurements were carried out using the in-house developed experimental setup. Stability test was also carried out to see the robustness of the nanogenerator. Finally, the output voltage response of the nanogenerator was studied for its use as an active speed sensor. Chapter 4: Synthesis of Al doped 2D ZnO nanorsheets on Aluminum alloy (AA-6061) substrate by hydrothermal method is reported in this chapter. The optimized parameters such as growth temperature and growth time effects on the synthesis of ZnO nanosheets are discussed. As-synthesized ZnO nanosheets were characterized using XRD, FE-SEM, TEM and XPS. The Al doping in ZnO is confirmed by EDXS and XPS analysis. Chapter 5: Cost effective fabrication of Al doped 2D ZnO nanosheets based nanogenerator for direct current (DC) power generation is reported in this chapter. The performance of the nanogenerator for DC power generation due to finger tip impacts was studied and subsequently its switching polarity test was also carried out. Output voltage measurements were carried out using the in-house developed experimental setup. Stability test was also carried out to see the robustness of the nanogenerator. Finally, the DC output voltage response of the nanogenerator was studied for its use as an active speed sensor. Chapter 6: The first section summarizes the significant features of the work presented in this thesis. In the second section the scope for carrying out the further work is given.

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico / A lot of vegetable species synthesize and accumulate organic substances, such as essential oils, that can be turned in alternative income for rural producers. Pelargonium graveolens L. is a native aromatic species from South Africa, commonly known as geranium. Its essential oil is largely used in perfume, cosmetics and fragrances industries, besides the aromatherapy. The conventional vegetative propagation methods of geranium do not present considerable success, which difficult the production of transplants in large scale. This way it is important to look for alternative production techniques, such as micropropagation, for this commercially important species. The aims of this work were to establish a protocol for micropopagation and acclimatization of geranium, besides investigating of essential oil content and chemical composition. The completely randomized design was used. For the micropropagation assays were tested different concentrations and immersion times of sodium hypochlorite and mercury chloride, different types of explants and MS salts concentrations, besides testing different concentrations of the plant growth regulators BAP, NAA, kinetin and IAA at presence and absence of light. For the acclimatization assay different substrates were tested. To analyze the essential oil we use plants propagated by rooting of cuttings and by micropropagation. Sodium hypochlorite at 1.2% for 12 minutes can be used for disinfestation of geranium explants, as well as mercury chloride at 0.09 and 0.08% for 12 and 14 minutes, respectively. The leaf explant is more effective for geranium micropropagation using MS medium with 39.8% of its salts. BAP and IAA proportionate the best results for in vitro multiplication and regeneration and number of shoots per explant. For acclimatization the substrates vermiculite and weekly addition of solution with salts of MS medium, coconut dust + Biosafra® (3-12-6) (12 g.L-1) + lime stone (1 g.L-1) and coconut dust + Biosafra® (3-12-6) (12 g.L-1) + lime stone (1 g.L-1) + vermiculite (1:1) can be used. There is a difference in geranium essential oil content and chemical composition between plants obtained from rooted cuttings and micropropagation. / Muitas espécies vegetais sintetizam e acumulam substâncias orgânicas, tais como os óleos essenciais, que podem se tornar alternativa de renda para muitos agricultores. O Pelargonium graveolens L. é uma espécie aromática nativa da África do Sul, popularmente conhecida como gerânio. Seu óleo essencial é amplamente empregado em indústrias de perfumes, cosméticos e fragrâncias, além da aromaterapia. Os métodos convencionais de propagação vegetativa do gerânio não apresentam sucesso considerável, o que tem dificultado a produção de mudas em larga escala. Dessa forma, é importante buscar técnicas alternativas de propagação, como a micropropagação, dessa espécie comercialmente importante. Os objetivos do presente trabalho foram estabelecer um protocolo de micropropagação e aclimatização da espécie, além de verificar o teor e a composição química do seu óleo essencial. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Nos ensaios de micropropagação foram testadas diferentes concentrações e tempos de imersão de hipoclorito de sódio e cloreto de mercúrio, diferentes tipos de explantes e concentrações de sais MS, além de testar os reguladores de crescimento BAP, ANA, cinetina e AIA em diferentes concentrações na ausência e presença de luz. Para o ensaio de aclimatização foram testados diferentes substratos. Por fim, para a análise do óleo essencial foram utilizadas plantas propagadas através da estaquia e micropropagadas. O hipoclorito de sódio a 1,2% por 12 minutos pode ser usado na desinfestação dos explantes de gerânio, assim como o cloreto de mercúrio nas concentrações de 0,09 e 0,08% por 12 e 14 minutos, respectivamente. O explante foliar é o mais eficiente para a micropropagação em meio MS com 39,8% dos sais. Para a multiplicação in vitro o uso de BAP e AIA proporciona os melhores resultados para a regeneração e para o número de brotos por explante e na aclimatização pode-se usar os substratos vermiculita com adição semanal de sais MS, pó de coco + Biosafra® (3-12-6) (12 g.L-1) + calcário (1 g.L-1) e pó de coco + Biosafra® (3-12-6) (12 g.L-1) + calcário (1 g.L-1) + vermiculita (1:1). Há diferença no teor e composição química do óleo de gerânio proveniente de plantas propagadas por estaquia e micropropagadas.

Les cellules peuvent migrer sous différentes conditions qui dépendent de l’environnement biochimique ou mécanique. Connaître les mécanismes de la migration, les protéines impliquées et leur régulation est essentiel pour comprendre les processus de morphogénèse ou certaines situations pathologiques. Dans ce contexte, la migration collective des cellules est un processus clé qui intervient pendant le développement ainsi que dans la vie adulte. Elle joue un rôle très important pour la formation et l’entretien des couches épithéliales, notamment au cours du développement embryonnaire et pendant la cicatrisation des trous épithéliaux résultant, par exemple, d’une blessure. Lorsque l’épithélium présente une discontinuité, des mécanismes actifs qui impliquent une migration coordonnée des cellules sont nécessaires pour préserver l’intégrité des tissus. Dans ce travail, nous avons étudié les mécanismes impliqués dans la fermeture des trous dans un épithélium. Pour des blessures de faible taille, le mode de fermeture dit de purse string est souvent évoqué, impliquant la contraction d’un anneau contractile d’acto-myosine qui ferme la blessure. Pour des blessures de tailles plus importantes, il est courant d’observer un mécanisme différent conduisant { la migration active des cellules du bord qui couvrent la surface “libre”.Pour étudier ces aspects de manière quantitative et reproductible, nous avons développé une nouvelle méthode basée sur des techniques de microfabrication et de lithographie dite « molle » qui permet de faire une étude quantitative de la fermeture des trous épithéliaux. Nous avons fabriqué des substrats de micropiliers de diamètre et de forme variés dans les quels les cellules sont libres de pousser entre les microstructures. Lorsqu’elles sont parvenues à confluence, on retire le substrat qui laisse apparaître des trous contrôlés.De cette manière, nous avons observé que les cellules épithéliales forment des lamellipodes pour la fermeture de ces trous. Le mécanisme de fermeture dépend de la taille des trous et nous avons pu observer différents régimes en fonction de diamètre des piliers. Les trous petits (de la taille d’une seule cellule) sont fermés par un mécanisme passif alors que la fermeture de trous plus larges nécessite un mécanisme actif de migration conduisant à la formation de lamellipodes et à des modes de migration collective. Par la suite, nous nous sommes intéressés à l’aspect mécanique de la fermeture des trous épithéliaux. Pour cela, nous avons utilisé un système d’ablation laser pour rompre quelques cellules dans une monocouche épithéliale. Nous avons alors mesuré les forces de traction que les cellules exercent au substrat et leur évolution temporelle et spatiale. Nous avons pu mettre en évidence différents modes de traction: au début, les cellules exercent des forces de traction importantes sur leur substrat pour laisser place à des contraintes mécaniques qui sont davantage issues d’un processus collectif au travers de la formation d’un câble multicellulaire qui les relie les cellules de bord entre elles. En conclusion, ce travail nous a permis d’obtenir des informations sur les mécanismes dynamiques de fermeture des tissus épithéliaux qui sont évidemment impliqués dans la cicatrisation des blessures mais aussi dans certains problèmes de malformations congénitales lors l’embryogenèse. / Most cells migrate under the appropriate conditions or stimuli; understanding the mechanisms of migration, the players involved, and their regulation, is pivotal to tackle the pathological situations where migration becomes an undesired effect. While largely overshadowed by the study of single cell migration, collective cell migration is a very relevant process that takes place during development as well as in adult life. Collective migration is very relevant for the formation and maintenance of epithelial layers: extensive migratory processes occur during the shape of the embryo, as well as during the healing of a skin incision in the adult. When openings or discontinuities appear in the epithelia, it is crucial that the appropriate mechanisms are activated.In the present work we attempt at deciphering what are the mechanisms involved in gap closure. Until now, most of the literature concerning the subject has reported contradictory results, mainly arising from the complexity of the process and the lack of systematic analysis. We have designed a novel approach to address epithelial gap closure under well-defined and controlled conditions. By using our gap patterning method, we have observed that epithelial cells extend lamellipodia when exposed to a newly available space. Interestingly, we found that the closure of such gap depends on the size: small gaps are closed by a passive physical mechanism, while large gaps are closed through a Rac-dependent cell crawling mechanism, in a collective migration-like manner. 11Abstract (English)Most cells migrate under the appropriate conditions or stimuli; understanding the mechanisms of migration, the players involved, and their regulation, is pivotal to tackle the pathological situations where migration becomes an undesired effect. While largely overshadowed by the study of single cell migration, collective cell migration is a very relevant process that takes place during development as well as in adult life. Collective migration is very relevant for the formation and maintenance of epithelial layers: extensive migratory processes occur during the shape of the embryo, as well as during the healing of a skin incision in the adult. When openings or discontinuities appear in the epithelia, it is crucial that the appropriate mechanisms are activated.In the present work we attempt at deciphering what are the mechanisms involved in gap closure. Until now, most of the literature concerning the subject has reported contradictory results, mainly arising from the complexity of the process and the lack of systematic analysis. We have designed a novel approach to address epithelial gap closure under well-defined and controlled conditions. By using our gap patterning method, we have observed that epithelial cells extend lamellipodia when exposed to a newly available space. Interestingly, we found that the closure of such gap depends on the size: small gaps are closed by a passive physical mechanism, while large gaps are closed through a Rac-dependent cell crawling mechanism, in a collective migration-like manner. Next, we also addressed the mechanical component of epithelial gap closure. In this study, we took advantage of a laser-ablation system to disrupt some cells within an epithelial monolayer, and study how the remaining cells sealed that gap. By measuring the traction forces that cells exert on the substrate along the closure, we observed that cells first pulled on the substrate to propel themselves. By the last steps of closure, there is a transition in the direction of the force, so that cells are pulled to the center of the gap due to the assembly of a supracellular actin cable. Altogether, this work provides valuable knowledge on the current understanding of the mechanisms accounting for epithelial gap closure. We believe that a better comprehension of these mechanisms can help to shed light in clinically relevant situations where epithelial gap closure is impaired.

Karotenoidy jsou přírodní pigmenty vyskytující se v mikroorganismech jako jsou řasy, kvasinky a sinice. Představují nejrozšířenější skupinu antioxidantů s významným biologickým účinkem. V současnosti vzrůstá zájem o karotenoidy vzhledem k jejich příznivým vlivům na lidské zdraví. Chlorofyly jsou zelená fotosyntetická barviva, která nacházejí uplatnění v potravinářství jako intenzivní zelená barviva. Koenzym Q je znám svým pozitivním vlivem pro správnou funkci řady orgánů v lidském těle. Ergosterol je nedílnou součástí membrán kvasinek a hub. Je to provitamin D2, který je důležitou součástí imunitního systému. Mikrobiální lipidy, nebo také ‚‚Single cell oils‘‘ jsou charakteristické vysokým obsahem zdraví prospěšných nenasycených mastných kyselin, které lze využít ve farmacii či kosmetice. Mikrobiální lipidy jsou dále studovány jako alternativa pro výrobu biopaliv. Dizertační práce byla zaměřena na studium a možnosti optimalizace produkce lipidů a lipidických látek vybranými kmeny karotenogenních kvasinek, mikrořas a sinic. V rámci práce byly testované kvasinky rodu Rhodotorula, Rhodosporidium, Cystofilobasidium a Sporidiobolus podrobené kultivacím na sérií médií s různými C/N poměry v rozsahu 13 až 100, obsahujících upravené odpadní substráty z potravinářského průmyslu. Vybrané kmeny byly poté kultivovány v bioreaktorech v médiu obsahujícím kombinaci odpadních substrátů. Kultivace mikrořas rodu Desmodesmus, Scenedesmus, Chlorella, Coccomyxa, Chlamydomonas, Botryococcus se zabývaly optimalizací jednotlivých komponent média a aplikací různých stresů s cílem navýšení produkce studovaných metabolitů. V rámci experimentů s extrémofilní mikrořasou Coccomyxa byly provedeny pilotní velkoobjemové kultivace v otevřených nádržích. V závěrečné části byl provedeny pilotní screeningové a velkoobjemové bioreaktorové experimenty zaměřené na možnosti kokultivace karotenogenních kvasinek a mikrořas. Testované kmeny kvasinek byly s rozdílnou úspěšností schopny utilizovat média obsahující hydrolyzované odpadní substráty. Nejlepším kmenem byl Sporidiobolus pararoseus, který na médiích dosahoval nejvyšších produkcí biomasy i sledovaných metabolitů. Z testovaných odpadních substrátů byla nejlepší kombinace odpadního fritovacího oleje a hydrolyzátu kávové sedliny. Úspěšná optimalizace složení hlavních komponent minerálního média vedla k zvýšené produkci studovaných metabolitů. Největší vliv měl optimální poměr P/N a aplikace oxidačního stresu. Nejlepších výsledků dosáhly mikrořasy rodu Desmodesmus a Scenedesmus. Velkoobjemové kultivace Coccomyxy onubensis potvrdily rezistenci kultury proti kontaminaci vnějšími vlivy a schopnost růstu za vysoké teploty a intenzity světelného záření. Kokultivační experimenty potvrdily schopnost symbiotického růstu kvasinek a mikrořas. Nejlepších výsledků dosahovaly všechny testované kvasinky s mikrořasami rodu Demsodesmus a Scenedesmus a v menší míře i rodu Coccomyxa.

This diploma thesis deals with the modeling of planar antennas with special superstrates in the CST Microwave Studio. Attention is given to the electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) substrates. Firstly, the working principle of these special substrates and generally physical phenomena accompanying electromagnetic waves propagation in a periodic medium are analyzed. By modeling of basic EBG structures in CST their dispersion diagrams were obtained and afterwards compared to one another. The object of the second part of this thesis was modeling of a chosen antenna in CST. An Antenna placed first on the conventional and then on the EBG substrate - in both cases with special superstrates - is analyzed and compared to each other. In the third part of this thesis, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique was implemented in CST (VBA language), and was applied to the original design of the chosen antenna. In the final part of this thesis, the optimized antenna was modeled and analyzed in ANSOFT HFSS, and the results from both simulation programs are compared to each other.

Substrate topography can have profound effects on initial bacterial adhesion during biofilm formation. We applied Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli cells onto periodically structured substrates with different structure dimensions, structure types and wetting properties. We found a strong dependence of cell retention on the structure dimensions of the applied substrates. Periodicities in the range of the cell size increased, whereas smaller periodicities decreased cell retention, independent of contact time (minutes to hours) and hydrophobicity. These novel insights on the role of surface topography on bacterial retention might facilitate the development of non-fouling surfaces in the future.