Phase Transformation in TiNi Nano-Wafers for Nanomechanical Devices with Shape Memory Effect.

Recently, Ti-Ni based intermetallic alloys with shape memory effect (SME) have attracted much attention as promising functional materials for the development of record small nanomechanical tools, such as nanotweezers, for 3D manipulation of the real nano-objects. The problem of the fundamental restrictions on the minimal size of the nanomechanical device with SME for manipulation is connected with size effects which are observed in small samples of Ti-Ni based intermetallic alloys with thermoplastic structural phase transition from austenitic high symmetrical phase to low symmetrical martensitic phase. In the present work, by combining density functional theory and molecular dynamics modelling, austenite has been shown to be more stable than martensite in nanometer-sized TiNi wafers.

New Method for Monitoring the Process of Freeze Drying of Biological Materials.

A capacitive sensor was proposed and tested for the monitoring and control of a freeze drying process of a vaccine against the Newcastle disease of birds. The residual moisture of the vaccine was measured by the thermogravimetric method. The vaccine activity was determined by titration in chicken embryos.

Innovative systems for cultural heritage conservation. Millimeter wave application for non-invasive monitoring and treatment of works of art.

A novel non invasive technique and a suitable apparatus for disinfestation of artworks is introduced. Non destructive and non invasive techniques are often irreplaceable in order to preserve and restore cultural heritage objects in its structure and shape. Although many techniques are available for art and archaeological works the non invasive methods are preferred as they leave the object untouched after treatment.