Nanoskalige Multischichten besitzen attraktive physikalische Eigenschaften wie den Riesenmagnetwiderstand, die sehr sensibel von der Struktur der Grenzfläche und der Einzelschichtdicke abhängen. Mit Hilfe einer Wärmebehandlung wird versucht, den Riesenmagnetwiderstand der durch Sputtern abgeschiedenen Schichten zu erhöhen. In entmischenden System Co/Cu wird bei Einzelschichtdicken von 2nm eine Erhöhung des Riesenmagnetwiderstandes gemessen. Allerdings verringert sich der Widerstand bei höheren Temperaturen drastisch. Die Verringerung wird begleitet von einem Zerfall der Schichtstruktur. Diese Arbeit untersucht die thermische Stabilität und morphologische Entwicklung nanoskaliger Multischichten mit binären nichtmischbaren Komponenten während der Wärmebehandlung mit Hilfe der Monte-Carlo-Methode und im Rahmen der Cahn-Hilliard-Theorie. Es wird gezeigt, dass bei einer Wärmebehandlung abgeschiedener Schichten die chemische Unschärfe der Phasengrenzfläche verringert werden kann. Bei der Wärmebehandlung bildet sich abhängig von der Temperatur eine morphologische Rauigkeit an der Phasengrenzfläche. Oberhalb einer kritische Temperatur findet ein Rauigkeitsübergang statt, bei der langwellige Rauigkeiten mit ständig wachsender Amplitude entstehen. Die Überlappung der Undulationen der morphologischen Rauigkeit von Unter- und Oberseite einer dünnen Schicht wurde als ein Mechanismus für die Bildung von Schichtdurchbrüchen identifiziert. In polykristallinen Schichten verursachen Korngrenzen thermische Instabilitäten der Multischicht. "Grain boundary grooving" wird als ein Mechanismus für die Bildung eines Schichtdurchbruchs an Korngrenzen vorgeschlagen. Durchbrochen Schichten ziehen sich getrieben durch Kapillarkräfte zurück. An den Endstellen bilden sich Wulste aus. Je nach Schichtdickenverhältnissesn kommt es zu einer Verschmelzung mit benachbarten Schichten gleicher Phase. Die ursprüngliche Schichtstruktur wird zerstört.

Conventional microelectronic and power electronic packages based on Si devices usually work below 150°C. The emergence of wide-bandgap devices, which potentially operate above a junction temperature of 250°C, results in growing research interest in high-density and high-temperature packaging. There are high-temperature materials such as encapsulants on the market that are claimed for capability of continuous operation at or above 250°C. With an objective of identifying encapsulants suitable for packaging wide-bandgap devices, some of commercial high-temperature encapsulants were obtained and evaluated at the beginning of this study. The evaluation revealed that silicone elastomers are processable for various types of package structure and exhibit excellent dielectric performance in a wide temperature range (25 - 250°C) but are insufficiently stable against long-term aging (used by some manufacturers, e.g., P²SI, to evaluate polymer stability) at 250°C. These materials cracked during aging, causing their dielectric strength to decrease quickly (as soon as 3 days) and significantly (60 - 70%) to approximately 5 kV/mm, which is below the value required by semiconductor packaging. The results of this evaluation clearly suggested that silicone needs higher thermal stability to reliably encapsulate wide-bandgap devices. Literature survey then investigated possible methods to improve silicone stability. Adding fillers is reported to be effective possibly due to the interaction between filler surface and polymer chains. However, the interaction mechanism is not clearly documented. In this study, the effect of Al₂O₃ filler on thermal stability was first investigated by comparing the performance of unfilled and Al₂O₃-filled silicones in weight-loss measurements and dielectric characterization. All test results on composites filed with Al₂O₃ micro-rods indicated that thermal stability increased with increasing filler loading. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) test demonstrated that the temperature of degradation onset increased from 330 to 379°C with a 30 wt% loading of Al₂O₃ rods. In isothermal soak test, unfilled and 30-wt%-filled silicones lost 10% of polymer weight in 700 and 1800 hours, respectively. The dielectric characterization found that both Weibull parameters, characteristic dielectric strength (E₀, representing the electric field at which 62.3% of samples are electrically broken down) and shape parameter (β, representing the spread of data. The larger the β, the narrower the distribution) can reflect the thermal stability of polymers. Both of them were influenced by microstructure evolution, to which β was found to be more sensitive than E₀. The characteristic dielectric strength of unfilled silicone decreased significantly after 240 hours of aging at 250°C, whereas that of Al₂O₃/silicone composites exhibited no significant change within 560 hours. The shape parameter of Al₂O₃-filled silicone decreased slower than that of unfilled silicone, also indicating the positive effect of Al₂O₃ micro-rods on thermal stability. Improved thermal stability can be explained by restrained chain mobility caused by interfacial hydrogen bonds, which are formed between hydroxyl groups on Al₂O₃ surface and silicone backbone. In this study, the effect of hydrogen bonds was investigated by dehydrating Al₂O₃ micro-rods at high temperature in N₂ to partially destroy the bonds. Removal of hydrogen bonds impaired thermal stability by increasing the initial weight-loss rate from 0.025 to 0.036 wt%/hour. The results explained the importance of interfacial hydrogen bond, which effectively reduced the average chain mobility, hindered the formation of degradation products, and led to higher thermal stability. The main discoveries of this study are listed below: 1. Al₂O₃ micro-rods were found to efficiently improve the thermal stability of silicone elastomer used for high-temperature encapsulation. 2. Characteristic dielectric strength and shape parameter obtained from Weibull distribution reflected the change of material microstructure caused by thermal aging. The shape parameter was found to be more sensitive to microscale defects, which were responsible for dielectric breakdown at low electric field. 3. Hydrogen bonds existing at filler/matrix interface were proven to be responsible for the improvement of thermal stability because they effectively restrained the average chain mobility of the silicone matrix. / Ph. D.

<p>Sodium (Na)-ion battery displays many properties similar to Lithium (Li)-ion battery, such as operating principles and capacity, which noticeably compressed the Na-ion battery cathode exploration period. Having said that, anode materials of Na-ion battery is still underperforming as commercial graphite is inadequate in storing bulky Na ions. In the search for anode materials, both alloy-type and Na metal anode materials have gained popularity as these materials can absorb more charges and have higher storage capacity. It is essential to remember that such materials exhibit massive volume expansion upon sodiation and hence experience considerable mechanical stress upon cycling, leading to fractures and pulverization of the electrodes. In addition to electrode stability, ionic motions between the electrode and electrolyte are pivotal in determining the battery response. The decomposition of the electrolyte cocktails forms a passivation layer on the electrode surface, known as solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which can rupture and regenerate in unstable cycles. Rickety SEI can cause the consumption of active Na and the formation of local hotspots for notorious dendrite growth, leading to short battery durability.</p> <p><br></p> <p>In the first part of the thesis, Tin (Sn) has been selected as an exemplar system to study the dynamic changes in a Na-ion battery. Higher ion-uptake capabilities of Sn electrode come with a price of large structural and morphological changes and can be controlled by careful charting of non-active phases such as binder and suitable electrolyte solution. This work comprehensively studies the technical challenges associated with Sn with different binder domains and in different liquid electrolyte environments. Parallelly, the sensitivity of the Na-Sn system towards the operating potential window and the crosstalk between the working electrode (alloying and de-alloying) and the counter electrode (plating and stripping) has been untied. Also, a fundamental understanding of the materials-transport-interface interactions during thermal abuse tests and their implication on the safety aspects of Na-ion batteries has been addressed. </p> <p><br></p> <p>Following that, the morphological stability of the Na metal anode is investigated based on the distinct electrochemical reactions arising from the composition of different liquid electrolytes. The role heterogeneity in the SEI layer of Na metal for the growth of dendritic patterns has been discussed. A unified framework incorporating a detailed electrochemical study of various electrolyte formulations, cognizant of the reactions and kinetics at the electrode-electrolyte interface, has been developed. To mechanistically counter the heterogeneity implications and synergistically leverage the electrolyte-additive-driven improvement in ionic transport, a flux-homogenizing separator has been introduced to extend the battery cycling. Based on this synergistic approach, the complex interplay between the homogeneity in SEI composition, electrodeposition/dissolution morphology, and cell performance in Na-metal-based batteries has been identified.</p> <p><br></p> <p>This work tried to offer fresh insights on fundamental mechanisms governing the evolution of the electrode-electrolyte interphases and their role in determining electro-chemo-mechano-thermal stability for future research endeavors in the Na-ion battery field. </p>

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In response to the growing concerns surrounding pollution and sustainability, this research explores the possibility of recycling post-consumer polyester (PET) and nylon (PA6) waste for textile applications. By blending the polymers and analyzing the recyclability and thermomechanical properties of PET/PA6 blends, this study aims to contribute to the development of sustainable materials for textile applications. Virgin PET and PA6 polymers were utilized, with blending ratios ranging from 35% PET to 65% PET to assess the impact of composition on the material’s performance. Compounding and injection molding techniques were employed to prepare samples for characterization. Mechanical testing revealed that the blending of PET and PA6 increased tensile and flexural strengths, with higher PET content leading to increased stiffness. However, impact testing indicated a decrease in toughness with the incorporation of PET, which is attributed to increased crystallinity. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the blends retained sufficient thermal stability for industrial processing, despite slight reductions in degradation temperatures. Differential scanning calorimetry explained the crystallization behavior of the blends, revealing nuanced changes in PET's crystallization temperature. The dynamic mechanical analysis highlighted enhanced elastic modulus and improved rigidity and adhesion. These findings may have significant implications for polymer blend research and applications. Understanding the mechanical and thermal behavior of PET/PA6 blends is crucial for optimizing their performance in textiles and various other sectors. The study contributes to the development of sustainable materials with improved mechanical properties, offering potential solutions to environmental challenges and promoting the adoption of recyclable polymers in society. Future research should focus on optimizing blend compositions with compatibilizers to enhance impact strength and fully integrate these materials into textile production processes.

Tesis por compendio / [ES] Las perovskitas orgánico-inorgánicas de halogenuros son una familia de materiales estudiados en profundidad por su potencial para construir células solares de alta eficiencia y de bajo coste. Han experimentado un crecimiento exponencial de la eficiencia, pasando del 3% del PCE en 2009 a más del 25% en 2021. Pero todavía quedan retos por superar, como la estabilidad. El objetivo del trabajo es estudiar diferentes tipos de HOIP para aplicaciones fotovoltaicas, incluyendo la optimización del proceso de fabricación y la caracterización completa mediante el análisis de difracción de rayos X, microscopía electrónica de escaneo de emisión de campo, microscopio de fuerza atómica, fotoluminiscencia, UV-absorción visible, cálculo de band-gap, microscopía electrónica de transmitancia, simulación teórica y estudio de degradación de las películas. El objetivo del análisis es obtener la cristalinidad, morfología, topografía, propiedades ópticas, PCE y estabilidad de las capas. Se utilizaron varias estrategias para cumplir el objetivo del trabajo, incluyendo el dopaje con distintos compuestos, la ingeniería de extinción antisolvente y el cambio del catión "B" en la fórmula de las perovskitas; ABX3. La presente disertación se centra en el yoduro de plomo de metilamonio III (CH3NH3I3), que es conocido por presentar una absorción directa de bandgap desde la parte superior de la banda de valencia hasta la parte inferior de la banda de conducción. El bandgap puede modificarse fácilmente variante A, B y X y modularse mediante la selección adecuada de cationes mixtos. Entre las combinaciones posibles, el catión MA y el metal Pb2+ han mostrado excelentes propiedades optoelectrónicas, capas procesables en disolución a baja temperatura y potencial para una estabilidad adecuada, debido a la movilidad del portador de carga muy alta, la gran longitud de difusión de electrones y agujeros, grandes coeficientes de absorción, y bajas tasas de recombinación no radiativa. Concretamente, este doctorado se compone de cuatro artículos: - Stability Improvement of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Thin Films by Bismuth Doping - Tetrabutylammonium (TBA)-Doped Methylammonium Lead Iodide: High Quality and Stable Perovskite Thin Films - Manufacture of High-Efficiency and Stable Lead-Free Solar Cells through Antisolvent Quenching Engineering - Investigation on the Stability and Efficiency of MAPbI3 and MASnI3 Thin Films for Solar Cells En resumen, el dopaje de bismuto mejoró la estructura cristalina de la capa absorbente de MAPbI3, mejorando las propiedades optoelectrónicas, la morfología de la superficie de las capas y la estabilidad de los dispositivos. Se estudió el dopaje con bismuto introduciendo cantidades variables de bismuto entre el 1 y el 8% en la solución inicial. Los mejores resultados se obtuvieron con un 2% de bismuto. También se analizó el dopaje con TBA introduciendo diferentes proporciones en la mezcla inicial para la síntesis de capas de MAPbI3. Observamos que un 5% de TBA reduce la densidad de agujeros en las capas y mejora la cristalinidad, mejorando la estabilidad de las capas MAPbI3. Con la proporción óptima de TBA, aumenta el tamaño del grano y la intensidad de la fotoluminiscencia, debido a la disminución de los centros de recombinación. Dado que el plomo es un elemento contaminante, sustituimos a Pb por Sn para obtener capas de MASnI3, lo que provocó un aumento del tamaño del grano y una mejora del coeficiente de absorción de la luz. Sin embargo, el MASnI3 es más inestable que el MAPbI3. Por eso, se utilizaron diferentes antisolventes en la síntesis de MASnI3. Conocida como ingeniería antisolvente, esta técnica estudia varios antisolventes. En este trabajo, el tolueno ha logrado mejorar la estabilidad de las capas de MASnI3. Utilizando un enfoque numérico mediante SCAPS-1D, se calculó que la eficiencia de los dispositivos fotovoltaicos de MASnI3 aumenta un 9,5% en comparación con los dispositivos de MAPbI3. / [CAT] Les perovskites orgàniques-inorgàniques d'halogenurs són una família de materials estudiats en profunditat pel seu potencial per construir cèl·lules solars d'alta eficiència i de baix cost. Han experimentat un creixement exponencial de l'eficiència, passant del 3% del PCE el 2009 a més del 25% el 2021. Però encara queden reptes per superar, com l'estabilitat. L'objectiu d'aquest treball és estudiar diferents tipus de HOIP per a aplicacions de cèl·lules solars, incloent l'optimització del procés de fabricació i la caracterització completa mitjançant l'anàlisi de difracció de raigs X, microscòpia electrònica d'escaneig d'emissió de camp, microscopi de força atòmica, fotoluminescència, UV- absorció visible, càlcul de band-gap, microscòpia electrònica de transmitància, simulació teòrica amb SCAPS-1D i estudi de degradació de les pel·lícules. L'objectiu de l'anàlisi és obtenir la cristalinitat, morfologia, topografia, propietats òptiques, PCE i estabilitat de les capes. Es van utilitzar diferents estratègies per complir l'objectiu del treball, incloent el dopatge amb diferents compostos, l'enginyeria d'extinció antisolvent i el canvi del catió "B" en la fórmula general de les perovskites; ABX3. La present dissertació se centra en el iodur de plom de metilamoni III (CH3NH3I3), que és conegut per presentar una absorció directa de bandgap des de la part superior de la banda de valència fins a la part inferior de la banda de conducció. El bandgap es pot modificar fàcilment variant A, B i X i modular-se mitjançant la selecció adequada de cations mixts. Entre les combinacions possibles, el catió MA i el metall Pb2+ han mostrat excel·lents propietats optoelectròniques, capes processables en dissolució a baixa temperatura i potencial per a una estabilitat adequada, a causa de la mobilitat del portador de càrrega molt alta, la gran longitud de difusió d'electrons i forats, grans coeficients d'absorció, i baixes taxes de recombinació no radiativa. Concretament, aquest doctorat es compon de quatre articles: -Stability Improvement of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Thin Films by Bismuth Doping -Tetrabutylammonium (TBA)-Doped Methylammonium Lead Iodide: High Quality and Stable Perovskite Thin Films -Manufacture of High-Efficiency and Stable Lead-Free Solar Cells through Antisolvent Quenching Engineering -Investigation on the Stability and Efficiency of MAPbI3 and MASnI3 Thin Films for Solar Cells En resum, el dopatge de bismut ha millorat l'estructura cristal·lina de la capa absorbent de MAPbI3, millorant les propietats optoelectròniques, la morfologia de la superfície de les capes i l'estabilitat dels dispositius. Es va estudiar el dopatge amb bismut introduint quantitats variables de bismut entre l'1 i el 8% en la solució inicial. Els millors resultats es van obtenir amb un 2% de bismut. També es va analitzar el dopatge amb tetrabutilamoni introduint diferents proporcions de TBA a la mescla inicial per a la síntesi de capes de MAPbI3. Observem que afegir un 5% de TBA a la mescla inicial redueix la densitat de forats a les capes i millora la cristal·linitat, millorant en l'estabilitat de les capes MAPbI3. Amb la proporció òptima de TBA, augmenta la mida del gra i la intensitat de la fotoluminescència, a causa de la disminució dels centres de recombinació. Com que el plom és un element contaminant, vam substituir Pb per Sn per obtenir capes de MASnI3, cosa que va provocar un augment de la mida del gra i una millora del coeficient d'absorció de la llum. Tanmateix, el MASnI3 és més inestable que el MAPbI3. Per això, es van utilitzar diferents antisolvents en la síntesi de MASnI3. Coneguda com a enginyeria antisolvent, aquesta tècnica estudia diversos antisolvents. En este treball, el toluè ha aconseguit millorar l'estabilitat de les capes de MASnI3. Utilitzant un enfocament numèric mitjançant SCAPS-1D, hem calculat que l'eficiència dels dispositius fotovoltaics basats en MASnI3 augmenta un 9,5% en comparació amb els dispositius de MAPbI3. / [EN] Halide Organic-Inorganic Perovskites are a family of materials that have been studied in depth due to their potential for building high-efficiency and low-cost solar cells. In recent years, they have experienced exponential growth in efficiency, going from 3% of PCE in 2009 to over 25% in 2021. But still, there are numerous challenges to overcome, such as stability. The purpose of this work is to study different kinds of HOIPs for solar cell applications, including the optimization of the manufacturing process and the complete characterization by the analysis of Xray-diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscope, photoluminescence, UV-visible absorption, band-gap calculation, Transmittance electron microscopy, theoretical simulation with SCAPS-1D, and degradation study of the films. The objective of the analysis is to obtain crystallinity, morphology, topography, optical properties, PCE, and stability of the layers. Different strategies were used to fulfil the goal of the work, including doping with different compounds, antisolvent quenching engineering, and changing the cation "B" in the general formula of perovskites; ABX3. The present dissertation is focused in methylammonium lead iodide III (CH3NH3I3), which is known for exhibiting direct bandgap absorption from the top of the valence band to the bottom of the conduction band. The bandgap can be easily modified by varying A, B, and X and modulated by the suitable selection of mixed cations. Among the possible combinations, MA cation and metal Pb2+ have exhibited excellent optoelectronic properties, low-temperature solution-processable films, and potential for appropriate stability, due to very high charge-carrier mobility, large electron and hole diffusion length, large absorption coefficients, and low nonradiative recombination rates. Specifically, this PhD is composed of four papers: - Stability Improvement of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Thin Films by Bismuth Doping - Tetrabutylammonium (TBA)-Doped Methylammonium Lead Iodide: High Quality and Stable Perovskite Thin Films - Manufacture of High-Efficiency and Stable Lead-Free Solar Cells through Antisolvent Quenching Engineering - Investigation on the Stability and Efficiency of MAPbI3 and MASnI3 Thin Films for Solar Cells To sum up, bismuth doping has improved the crystalline structure of the absorbent layer of MAPbI3, which leads to a significant improvement in the optoelectronic properties, the morphology of the surface of the layers, and even improves the stability of the devices. Bismuth doping was studied introducing variable amounts of bismuth between 1 and 8% in the initial solution. Best results were obtained with 2% bismuth. Doping with tetrabutylammonium (TBA) was also analysed by introducing different proportions of TBA in the initial mixture for the synthesis of MAPbI3 layers. We observed that adding 5% TBA to the initial solution reduces the density of pinholes in the layers and improves crystallinity, which leads to a considerable improvement in the stability of the MAPbI3 layers. With the optimal proportion of TBA, it is possible to increase the grain size and the intensity of the photoluminescence, due to the decrease in recombination centres. Since lead is a polluting element, we substituted Pb for Sn to obtain MASnI3 layers, which led to increasing grain size and enhancing light absorption coefficient. However, MASnI3 shells are more unstable than MAPbI3 shells. To overcome this, different anti-solvents were used in the synthesis of MASnI3 shells. Known as antisolvent engineering, this technique studies several antisolvents. In our work, toluene has managed to improve the stability of the MASnI3 layers. Using a numerical approach using SCAPS-1D, we have calculated that the efficiency of photovoltaic devices (PCE) based on MASnI3 increases by 9.5% when compared to devices based on MAPbI3. / Marí Guaita, J. (2022). Different Approaches for Improving the Stability of Hybrid Perovskites [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/191430 / Compendio

La conception de nouveaux matériaux fonctionnels a une longue histoire. Durant les deux dernières décennies, le domaine des polymères organiques et inorganiques a attiré l'attention des chercheurs. Plus important encore, les matériaux poreux tels que les Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), en anglais, Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs), en anglais, ainsi que des polymères de coordination poreux sont maintenant étudiés de manière intensive en raison de leurs applications potentielles, comprenant le stockage de gaz, la séparation de gaz, la catalyse et la détection. D'un autre côté, les polymères contenant du Pt ont montré l'application potentielle dans les cellules solaires et les diodes électroluminescentes. Le mémoire est divisé en trois sections principales présentant des résultats nouveaux. Dans la première section, le chapitre 2 traite essentiellement de la formation de polymères de coordination (CP) avec des sels CuX (X = Cl, Br, I) et trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PMe3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L1), soit dans le PrCN ou PhCN. Les polymères résultants sont soit 2D (bidimensionel) ou 1D (unidimensionel). Cependant, en presence de PrCN ou de PhCN, le CP 2D obtenu avec le CuBr n'a pas incorporé de solvant dans ses espaces vides. D'autre part, le CP 2D et le reste des CP 1D obtenus avaient soit des molécules de solvant de cristallisation dans leurs cavités ou coordonnés au cuivre sur la chaîne. Les unités cuivre-halogénures étaient soit des rhomboïdes Cu2X2 ou le cubane Cu4I4. Leurs mesures photophysiques en présence et en l'absence de molécules de solvant de cristallisation ont été effectuées. En outre, la porosité du CP a été évaluée par BET (N2 à 77 K). Le vapochromisme du CP 2D sans solvant et des CP 1D ont été étudiés, ainsi que les mesures de sorption du CO2 ont été effectuées. De plus, nous avons utilisé CuCN et L1 dans MeCN pour former de nouveaux CP’s. Ceci est rapporté dans la deuxième section, le chapitre 3. Le CP obtenu était inattendu : L1 s’est rompu et du cyanure CN‾ s’est coordonné sur le Pt. Ceci a conduit à la formation d’un CP 1D zigzag. Généralement, les CP sont formés avec L1 via des liens Cu-S ou/et Cu([éta]2-C≡C), mais pas dans le cas du CuCN qui lui forme une chaîne 1D (CuCN)n où le L1 rompu se lie avec cette chaîne via un lien Cu-N. Les propriétés photophysiques et de stabilité thermique ont été étudiées. La troisième section (Chapitre 4) traite d'une exploration des CP formés par la reaction des sels CuX (X = Cl, Br, I) et le trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PMe3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L1) ou le trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PEt3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L2) dans du MeCN afin de trouver des tendances. L'utilisation de L1 a donné lieu à un CP 2D ou 1D CPs avec le MeCN piégé à l'intérieur des cavités, il y a de l’espace vide. L2 a conduit uniquement à des CP 1D sans molecules de solvant de cristallisation. Des analyses thermogravimétriques, photophysique et des mesures d’adsorption de gaz (uniquement pour ceux avec du solvant) ont été étudiées. / Abstract: The design of new functional materials has a long history. For the past two decades, the field of organic and inorganic polymers has attracted attention of researchers. More importantly, porous materials such as Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) as well as porous coordination polymers are now being intensively studied due to their potential applications including gas storage, gas separations, catalyst and sensing. On another hand, Pt-containing polymers have shown potential applications in solar cells and light emitting diodes. The masters’ thesis is mainly divided into three main sections presenting new results. In the first section; Chapter 2 mainly discusses the formation of coordination polymers with CuX salts (X= Cl, Br, I) and trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PMe3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L1), in either PrCN or PhCN. The resulting polymers obtained were 2D (bidimensional) CPs or 1D (unidimensional) CPs in all cases. However, 2D CPs obtained when CuBr salt is used by either using PrCN or PhCN did not incorporate the solvents in their cavities. On the other hand, the 2D CP and the rest of 1D CPs obtained had either the crystallization molecules in the cavities or coordinated to the copper cluster. The copper-halide clusters were either the rhomboids Cu2X2 fragments or the step cubane Cu4I4. The photophysical measurements in the presence and absence of solvent crystallization molecules were performed. In addition, the porosity of the CPs was evaluated by adsorption isotherms. The vapochromism of the solvent-free 2D and 1D CPs were investigated as well as CO2 sorption measurements were perfomed. Furthermore, we then attempted to use CuCN and L1 in MeCN which is reported in the second section as Chapter 3. The obtained CP was unexpected as L1 broke and a cyanide (CN‾) ion coordinated to the Pt atom leading to the formation of zigzag 1D CP. The coordination bonds Cu-S or/and Cu([eta]2-C≡C) were generally observed with L1, but not in the CuCN case. Instead a 1D chain of (CuCN)n was made and the broken L1 now binds the chain via a Cu-N bond. The photophysical and thermal stability properties were studied. Lastly, the third section, Chapter 4 deals with a potential predictability of CP formation by using CuX salts (X= Cl, Br, I) and either trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PMe3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L1) or trans-[p-MeSC6H4C≡C-Pt(PEt3)2-C≡CC6H4SMe] (L2) in MeCN as the solvent. The use of L1 resulted in either 2D or 1D CPs with the MeCN trapped inside of the cavities while L2 resulted in 1D CPs without MeCN being present in their cavities. The thermogravimetric, photophysical as well as gas sorption measurements (only for those with crystalisation molecules) were perfomed.

This thesis describes a portfolio of work aimed at the high field applications of superconductors and can be split into four main topics: The thermal stability of technical superconductors. This section investigates the effects of thermal perturbations on technical superconducting wire used in MRI scanner construction. The ultimate aim of this section is to predict how the architecture of the wire may affect its thermal stability. To this end a detailed finite element analysis model was constructed, verified by detailed experimental data, which could then be used to quickly and easily vary the wire’s parameters. Design of a high field pulsed electromagnetic coil for flux trapping in superconductors. This section details the design, construction and testing of a novel pulsed high field magnet. The design uses finite element analysis to predict the electromagnetic, thermal and structural properties of the coil. Explosive testing of high tensile fibres used in the construction of the high field coil. This section describes the refinement and use of a novel method for testing the mechanical properties of high tensile fibres in cylindrical geometries by using highly pressurized copper vessels. Pulsed field magnetization of bulk high temperature superconductors. This section discusses the process of magnetizing bulks of high temperature superconductors by using pulsed magnetic fields. It investigates how the trapped field varies with the magnitude and rise-time of the magnetizing field, sample temperature and time after magnetization.

Le sujet général de cette thèse est l’étude de la fonctionnalisation covalente des nanotubes de carbone (CNT) et son application en électronique. Premièrement, une introduction au sujet est présentée. Elle discute des propriétés des CNT, des différentes sortes de fonctionnalisation covalente ainsi que des principales techniques de caractérisation utilisées au cours de la thèse. Deuxièmement, les répercussions de la fonctionnalisation covalente sur les propriétés des nanotubes de carbone monoparoi (SWNT) sont étudiées. Deux types de fonctionnalisation sont regardés, soit le greffage de groupements phényles et le greffage de groupements dichlorométhylènes. Une diminution de l’absorption optique des SWNT dans le domaine du visible-proche infrarouge est observée ainsi qu’une modification de leur spectre Raman. De plus, pour les dérivés phényles, une importante diminution de la conductance des nanotubes est enregistrée. Troisièmement, la réversibilité de ces deux fonctionnalisations est examinée. Il est montré qu’un recuit permet de résorber les modifications structurales et retrouver, en majorité, les propriétés originales des SWNT. La température de défonctionnalisation varie selon le type de greffons, mais ne semble pas affectée par le diamètre des nanotubes (diamètre examinés : dérivés phényles, Ømoyen= 0,81 nm, 0,93 nm et 1,3 nm; dérivés dichlorométhylènes, Ømoyen = 0,81 nm et 0,93 nm). Quatrièmement, la polyvalence et la réversibilité de la fonctionnalisation covalente par des unités phényles sont exploitées afin de développer une méthode d’assemblage de réseaux de SWNT. Celle-ci, basée sur l’établissement de forces électrostatiques entre les greffons des SWNT et le substrat, est à la fois efficace et sélective quant à l’emplacement des SWNT sur le substrat. Son application à la fabrication de dispositifs électroniques est réalisée. Finalement, la fonctionnalisation covalente par des groupements phényles est appliquée aux nanotubes de carbone à double paroi (DWNT). Une étude spectroscopique montre que cette dernière s’effectue exclusivement sur la paroi externe. De plus, il est démontré que la signature électrique des DWNT avant et après la fonctionnalisation par des groupements phényles est caractéristique de l’agencement nanotube interne@ nanotube externe. / The general subject of this thesis is the covalent functionalization of carbon nanotubes and its applications in electronics. First, the properties of the carbon nanotubes, their functionalization, and the principal techniques used to characterize them are presented. Second, the repercussions of the grafting of phenyl addends and dichloromethylene addends on the properties of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) are investigated. A decrease of light absorption and a modification of the Raman spectra of the nanotubes are observed as well as, for the phenyl derivatives, an important loss of their electrical conductivity. Third, the reversibility of the functionalization is examined. The study shows that the addends are detached from the sidewall upon annealing, leading to the reconstruction of the graphene structure. Most of the original properties of the SWNT are then recovered. In addition, it is observed that the temperature of defunctionalization depends on the nature of the addends, but it is not influenced by the diameter of the SWNT (Range studied: phenyl derivatives, Ømoyen= 0,81 nm, 0,93 nm et 1,3 nm; dichlorométhylènes derivatives, Ømoyen = 0,81 nm et 0,93 nm). Fourth, a new method to reliably self-assemble networks of dense SWNT onto patterned substrates is presented. The method is based on covalent functionalization and electrostatic interactions. Its suitability for making electronic devices is demonstrated. Last, this thesis investigated the covalent functionalization of double-wall carbon nanotubes (DWNT). A spectroscopic study revealed that the grafting of the phenyl addends occurs exclusively on the outer wall. Furthermore, the identification of the metallic or semiconductor character of each wall of the DWNT is realized using electrical measurements taken before and after the functionalization.

Le 1,1'-bi-2-naphtol ou Binol, présentant une chiralité axiale, est un ligand très utilisé en catalyse asymétrique. Au cours des vingt dernières années, le Binol a servi de synthon à l’élaboration de très nombreux ligands permettant la catalyse asymétrique de tous types de réactions, allant de l’hydrogénation, à l’alkylation, en passant par diverses réactions péricycliques. Le grand intérêt pour ce ligand vient de sa versatilité et des nombreuses possibilités de fonctionnalisation qu’il offre, permettant d’altérer ses propriétés catalytiques à volonté, aussi bien en modifiant son caractère électronique, qu’en introduisant des facteurs stériques autour du site catalytique. Parallèlement aux développements de la catalyse par des dérivés de Binol, le domaine des liquides ioniques a connu un intérêt croissant ces dernières années. Les liquides ioniques, sels dont le point de fusion est inférieur à 100°C, cumulent de nombreuses qualités convoitées : faible pression de vapeur, stabilité thermique et chimique et fort pouvoir de solvatation. Dû à ces propriétés, les liquides ioniques ont principalement été étudiés dans l’optique de développer une gamme de solvants recyclables. Alors que les propriétés des liquides ioniques sont facilement modulables en fonction de l’anion et du cation choisi, le concept de liquide ionique à tâche spécifique va plus loin et propose d’introduire directement, sur le cation ou l’anion, un groupement conférant une propriété particulière. En suivant cette approche, plusieurs ligands ioniques ont été rapportés, par simple couplage d’un cation organique à un ligand déjà connu. Étonnamment, le Binol a fait l’objet de très peu de travaux pour l’élaboration de ligands ioniques. Dans cette thèse, nous proposons l’étude d’une famille de composés de type Binol-imidazolium dont les unités Binol et imidazolium sont séparées par un espaceur méthylène. Différents homologues ont été synthétisés en variant le nombre d’unités imidazolium et leur position sur le noyau Binol, la longueur de la chaîne alkyle portée par les unités imidazolium et la nature du contre-anion. Après une étude des propriétés thermiques de ces composés, l’utilisation des Binol-imidazoliums en tant que ligands dans une réaction asymétrique d’éthylation d’aldéhydes aromatique a été étudiée en milieu liquide ionique. La réaction a été conduite en solvant liquide ionique dans le but de recycler aussi bien le ligand Binol-imidazolium que le solvant, en fin de réaction. Cette étude nous a permis de démontrer que la sélectivité de ces ligands ioniques dépend grandement de leur structure. En effet, seuls les Binols fonctionnalisés en positions 6 et 6’ permettent une sélectivité de la réaction d’éthylation. Alors que les dérivés de Binol fonctionnalisés en positions 3 et 3’ ne permettent pas une catalyse énantiosélective, il a déjà été rapporté que ces composés avaient la capacité de complexer des anions. D’autre part, il a déjà été rapporté par notre groupe, que les composés comportant des unités imidazolium pouvaient permettre le transport d’anions à travers des bicouches lipidiques en fonction de leur amphiphilie. Ceci nous a amenés à la deuxième partie de cette thèse qui porte sur les propriétés ionophores des Binols fonctionnalisés en positions 3 et 3’ par des unités imidazoliums. Dans un premier temps, nous nous sommes intéressés à l’étude de la relation structure-activité et au mécanisme de transport de ces composés. Le transport d’anions étant un processus clé dans la biologie cellulaire, l’activité biologique des composés présentant une activité ionophore dans des systèmes modèles (liposomes) a été étudiée par la suite. L’activité antibactérienne des nos composés a été testée sur quatre souches de bactéries. Il s’est avéré que les composés Binol-imidazolium sont actifs uniquement sur les bactéries Gram positives. Finalement, la cytotoxicité des composés présentant une activité antibactérienne a été étudiée sur des cellules humaines. / 1,1'-Bi-2-naphthol or Binol, having an axial chirality, is a widely used ligand in asymmetric catalysis. Over the last twenty years, Binol was used as a synthon for the synthesis of numerous ligands for the asymmetric catalysis of various reactions including hydrogenation, alkylation and various pericyclic reactions. The interest in this ligand comes from its versatility and possibilities to modify its electronic character and to introduce steric bulk around the catalytic site. Paralleling interest in the study of Binol derivatives as ligands for asymmetric catalysis has been a growth in research on ionic liquids. Ionic liquids are salts with melting points below 100°C. They combine many interesting properties, such as low vapor pressure, thermal and chemical stability and high solvation power. Due to these properties, ionic liquids have been investigated to develop a range of recyclable solvents. Recently, the concept of task-specific ionic liquids has emerged in which the properties of the ionic liquids are tuned by selecting different cations and anions, to accomplish specific applications. Following this approach, several ionic ligands have been made by coupling known ligands to an ionic liquid cation. Rarely, Binol has been used for this purpose. In this thesis, we study a family of Binol-imidazolium type compounds, in which Binol and imidazolium units are linked by a methylene spacer. Several analogs were synthesized by varying the number of imidazolium units and their position on the Binol moiety, the alkyl chain length on the imidazolium units and the counter-anion. After a study of the thermal properties, the use of Binol-imidazoliums as ligands was described in the asymmetric ethylation of aromatic aldehydes. The reaction was conducted in ionic liquid solvent and both Binol-imidazolium ligand and the solvent were recycled at the end of the reaction. This study demonstrates that the selectivity of these ligands greatly depends on their structure. Indeed, only Binol analogs functionalized at the 6 and 6’ positions were selectivite. Although Binol derivatives functionalized at the 3 and 3' positions did not serve as enantioselective catalysts, they were able to complex anions. Furthermore, it has already been reported by our group, that imidazolium compounds can transport anions across lipid bilayers depending on their amphiphilicity. In the second part of this thesis, we cover the ionophoric properties of Binol derivatives functionalized at the 3 and 3' positions by imidazolium moieties. First, a study will be presented of their structure-property relationships in the transport through liposomes. Thereafter, the transport mechanism will be discussed. Finally, the biological activity of our compounds with ionophore activity was studied, because the anion transport is a key process in cell biology. Their antibacterial activity was tested on four strains of bacteria. Binol-imidazolium compounds exhibited activity on Gram positive bacteria. Their cytotoxicity was also studied on human cells.