Quantum Beam Science

17 pages, 7192 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Dy³⁺ Ions on Structural, Thermal and Spectroscopic Properties of L-Threonine Crystals: A Visible Light-Emitting Material

by João G. de Oliveira Neto, Otávio C. da Silva Neto, Jéssica A. O. Rodrigues, Jailton R. Viana, Alysson Steimacher, Franciana Pedrochi, Francisco F. de Sousa and Adenilson O. dos Santos

Quantum Beam Sci. 2025, 9(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs9010003 - 13 Jan 2025

Abstract

In this study, L-threonine crystals (L-thr) containing Dy³⁺ ions (L-thrDy5 and L-thrDy10) with varying mass concentrations (5% and 10%) were successfully synthesized using a solvent slow evaporation method. The structural properties were characterized by Powder X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement. The data [...] Read more.

In this study, L-threonine crystals (L-thr) containing Dy³⁺ ions (L-thrDy5 and L-thrDy10) with varying mass concentrations (5% and 10%) were successfully synthesized using a solvent slow evaporation method. The structural properties were characterized by Powder X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement. The data revealed that all three samples crystallized in orthorhombic symmetry (P2₁2₁2₁-space group) and presented four molecules per unit cell (Z = 4). However, the addition of Dy³⁺ ions induced a dilation effect in the lattice parameters and cell volume of the organic structure. Additionally, the average crystallite size, lattice microstrain, percentage of void centers, and Hirshfeld surface were calculated for the crystals. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis experiments showed that L-thr containing Dy³⁺ ions are thermally stable up to 214 °C. Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy results indicated that the Dy³⁺ ions interact indirectly with the L-thr molecule via hydrogen bonds, slightly affecting the crystalline structure of the amino acid. Optical analysis in the ultraviolet–visible region displayed eight absorption bands associated with the electronic transitions characteristic of Dy³⁺ ions in samples containing lanthanides. Furthermore, L-thrDy5 and L-thrDy10 crystals, when optically excited at 385 nm, exhibited three photoluminescence bands centered around approximately 554, 575, and 652 nm, corresponding to the ⁴F_7/2 → ⁶H_11/2, ⁴F_9/2 → ⁶H_13/2, and ⁴F_9/2 → ⁶H_11/2 de-excitations. Therefore, this study demonstrated that L-thr crystals containing Dy³⁺ ions are promising candidates for the development of optical materials due to their favorable physical and chemical properties. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the synthesis of these systems is cost-effective, and the synthesis method used is efficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering and Structural Materials)

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Graphical abstract

9 pages, 1820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Movement Mode of the Microworld Particle

by Jinhai Li

Quantum Beam Sci. 2025, 9(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs9010002 - 1 Jan 2025

Abstract

Most physicists are dissatisfied with the current explanation of quantum mechanics, and want to find a method to solve this problem. However, this problem has not been solved perfectly up to now. In this paper, annihilation-generation movement (AGM) is developed according to the [...] Read more.

Most physicists are dissatisfied with the current explanation of quantum mechanics, and want to find a method to solve this problem. However, this problem has not been solved perfectly up to now. In this paper, annihilation-generation movement (AGM) is developed according to the electron motion in hydrogen atoms. To verify the AGM, a curved surface that fits the dark fringe of the single-slit diffraction is proposed. Based on the AGM, the wave function of a free electron is rewritten and the double-slit experiment can be understood. Here, we show that the AGM is an alternative physical image that can be used to solve the puzzles of quantum mechanics, such as Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and steady-state transition. We anticipate that we can find a new way to explain quantum mechanics based on AGM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Challenges in Electron Beams)

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21 pages, 2161 KiB

Open AccessReview

by Ashraf EL Sherbini, AbdelNasser Aboulfotouh and Tharwat EL Sherbini

Quantum Beam Sci. 2025, 9(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs9010001 - 24 Dec 2024

Abstract

The interaction of pulsed lasers with matter involving nanomaterials as a pure target or thin layer deposited on a target initiates transient plasma, which shows strong enhancement in a spectral line emission. This domain of research has been explored via two well-established techniques [...] Read more.

The interaction of pulsed lasers with matter involving nanomaterials as a pure target or thin layer deposited on a target initiates transient plasma, which shows strong enhancement in a spectral line emission. This domain of research has been explored via two well-established techniques dubbed NELIBS and NELIPS. These Nano-Enhanced Laser-Induced Breakdown or Plasma Spectroscopy techniques entail similarities as well as differences. The newly defined concept of Nano-Enhanced Laser-Induced Plasma Spectroscopy NELIPS is introduced. Thereupon, certain confusion has arisen from various aspects of the similarities as well as differences between the two techniques. In this article, we will investigate the application of either technique to retrieve relevant data about the enhanced spectral line plasma emission phenomenon. To discriminate between these two techniques, a survey on the nature of the target, the origin of enhancement and prevalent theoretical approaches is presented. In this context, the potential achievements, challenges and expected prospects are comparatively highlighted. This review emphasizes the unique contributions of NELIPS, particularly the advanced approach in nanoscale thermal modeling and spectroscopic applications. Full article

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20 pages, 12886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructural Analysis, Compressive Strength, and Wear Properties of Spark-Plasma-Sintered Al–Mg–PPA Composites

by Osarue Osaruene Edosa, Francis Kunzi Tekweme, Peter A. Olubambi and Kapil Gupta

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040032 - 17 Dec 2024

Abstract

One technique for sintering green compacts and imparting the required qualities to meet the specific application requirements is spark plasma sintering (SPS). This study examines the effects of SPS parameters (sintering temperature and pressure, holding time, and heating rate) and plantain peel ash [...] Read more.

One technique for sintering green compacts and imparting the required qualities to meet the specific application requirements is spark plasma sintering (SPS). This study examines the effects of SPS parameters (sintering temperature and pressure, holding time, and heating rate) and plantain peel ash (PPA) reinforcement concentrations (0, 5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%, and 20 wt%) on the microstructure, compressive strength, and wear characteristics of the fabricated Al–Mg–PPA composites. As a result of the ball milling machine’s high efficiency, the PPA reinforcement was evenly dispersed throughout the aluminum matrix after 90 min of milling. At lower sintering temperatures and pressures, microstructural flaws such as weak grain boundaries, micro-pores, and micro-cracks were more noticeable than at higher ones. The PPA reinforcement and magnesium powder (wetting agent) increased the composites’ compressive strength by improving the wettability between the PPA reinforcement and the Al matrix. At a weight fraction of 5 wt% PPA, the maximum compressive strength of 432 MPa was attained for the sintered composites, which is a 222% improvement over the sintered aluminum matrix. Additionally, the PPA reinforcement enhanced the wear properties of the sintered Al–Mg–PPA composites by reducing the wear loss. Increasing the wear load resulted in a higher wear rate. The COF for the sintered composites ranges from 0.049 to 0.727. The most consistent correlation between the wear rate and the COF is that as the wear rate decreases, the COF decreases, and vice versa. Abrasive wear was the dominant wear mechanism observed. Tear ridges, shear steps, micro-voids, and cleavages were seen on the composites’ fracture surfaces, an indication of a ductile-brittle fracture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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18 pages, 6313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploration of Physical–Chemical and Structural-Phase Mechanisms in Ti-Al Intermetallic Coating Formation

by Almaz Nazarov, Rustem Nagimov, Alexey Oleinik, Alexey Maslov, Alexey Nikolaev, Kamil Ramazanov, Vladimir Denisov, Yuri Ivanov and Elena Korznikova

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040031 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study examines coatings based on Ti-Al system intermetallics deposited in a nitrogen environment. The research investigates the structure, phase composition, chemical composition, and mechanical properties of coatings with varying ratios of Ti-Al to TiAlN layer thicknesses. Multiple analytical techniques, including nanoindentation, sclerometry, [...] Read more.

This study examines coatings based on Ti-Al system intermetallics deposited in a nitrogen environment. The research investigates the structure, phase composition, chemical composition, and mechanical properties of coatings with varying ratios of Ti-Al to TiAlN layer thicknesses. Multiple analytical techniques, including nanoindentation, sclerometry, microhardness measurements, electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and transmission electron microscopy, were employed. The results demonstrate that the coating architecture significantly influences its physical and mechanical properties. Notably, coatings with a variable thickness gradient structure exhibit the best properties and are the most promising for practical applications, offering enhanced hardness, wear resistance, and adhesion strength. Furthermore, the findings indicate that a carefully selected combination of layers can be used to control coating properties across a wide range, making these coatings highly suitable for demanding industrial applications. Full article

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14 pages, 3419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multievent Correlation with Neutron Volume Detectors

by Noah Nachtigall, Andreas Houben and Richard Dronskowski

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040030 - 28 Nov 2024

Abstract

The development of advanced volume detectors for neutron time-of-flight diffractometers offers exciting new possibilities. This work takes advantage of these advances by implementing a novel data preprocessing algorithm, exemplified for the first time with data acquired during the operation of a singular mounting [...] Read more.

The development of advanced volume detectors for neutron time-of-flight diffractometers offers exciting new possibilities. This work takes advantage of these advances by implementing a novel data preprocessing algorithm, exemplified for the first time with data acquired during the operation of a singular mounting unit of the POWTEX detector placed at the POWGEN instrument (SNS, ORNL, Oak Ridge, TN, USA). Our approach exploits the additional depth information provided by the volume detector needed to correlate multiple neutron events to neutron trajectories of similar origin and probability. By comparing the properties of these trajectories with the expected physical behavior, one may first identify, then label, and ultimately remove unwanted events due to phenomena such as secondary scattering within the sample environment. This capability has the potential to significantly improve the quality and information content of data collected with neutron diffractometers. Full article

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13 pages, 1699 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metallic Ca Aggregates Formed Along Ion Tracks and Optical Anisotropy in CaF₂ Crystals Irradiated with Swift Heavy Ions

by Hiroshi Amekura, Norito Ishikawa, Nariaki Okubo, Feng Chen, Kazumasa Narumi, Atsuya Chiba, Yoshimi Hirano, Keisuke Yamada, Shunya Yamamoto and Yuichi Saitoh

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040029 - 7 Nov 2024

Abstract

It is known that swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation induces the shape elongation of metal nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in transparent insulators, which results in anisotropic optical absorption. Here, we report another type of the optical anisotropy induced in CaF₂ crystals without including [...] Read more.

It is known that swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation induces the shape elongation of metal nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in transparent insulators, which results in anisotropic optical absorption. Here, we report another type of the optical anisotropy induced in CaF₂ crystals without including intentionally embedded metal NPs. The CaF₂ samples were irradiated with 200 MeV Xe¹⁴⁺ ions with an incident angle of 45° from the surface normal. With the increasing fluence, an absorption band at ~550 nm, which is ascribed to Ca aggregates, increases both the intensity and the anisotropy. XTEM observation clarified the formation of the continuous line structures and the discontinuous NP chains parallel to the SHI beam. Numerical simulations of the optical absorption spectra suggested the NP chains but not the continuous line structures as the origin of the anisotropy. The optical anisotropy in CaF₂ irradiated with SHIs is different from the shape elongation of NPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modification of Materials by Using Energetic Ion/Electron Beams)

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16 pages, 588 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Optimizing the Automated Analysis of Inorganic Gunshot Residue Particles by SEM-EDX: From Synthetic Particle Standards to More Time-Efficient Settings for Daily Casework

by Zuzanna Brożek-Mucha and Iga Klag

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040028 - 6 Nov 2024

Abstract

Gunshot residues deposited on all surfaces in the nearest vicinity of the shooting incident, when revealed, can contribute to the explanation of various aspects of such an incident for forensic purposes. Examinations of gunshot residue, mainly inorganic particles, at forensic laboratories are expected [...] Read more.

Gunshot residues deposited on all surfaces in the nearest vicinity of the shooting incident, when revealed, can contribute to the explanation of various aspects of such an incident for forensic purposes. Examinations of gunshot residue, mainly inorganic particles, at forensic laboratories are expected to be reliable and fast. This primarily depends on the performance of the used scanning electron microscope integrated with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer and the automatic program searching for particles of defined characteristics. Among the milestones on the pathway towards quality assurance in examinations of gunshot particles, the invention of the synthetic gunshot residue specimen ought to be named. Such a specimen with particles of known chemical content, size, and location is now used for proficiency testing, which is a condition for a forensic laboratory to obtain accreditation in this subject matter. In this publication, the need for optimization of the procedure for the examination of a synthetic specimen, in alignment with the necessary modifications for real gunshot particles, has been addressed. The presented process of validation resulted in two procedures. The first demonstrates the full capacity of the instrument for detecting all particles present in the synthetic specimen, including the 0.5 micrometer particle at the magnification of 250×. The other procedure is the modification of the first, however aiming at 1-micrometer particles or bigger (at the magnification of 120×) and allowing the necessary backscattered signal threshold changes depending on the actual composition of gunshot residue as well as the abundance of light element debris in the case of real gunshot particles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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17 pages, 4572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optical Energy Increasing in a Synchronized Motif-Ring Array of Autonomous Erbium-Doped Fiber Lasers

by José Octavio Esqueda de la Torre, Juan Hugo García-López, Rider Jaimes-Reátegui, José Luis Echenausía-Monroy, Eric Emiliano López-Muñoz, Héctor Eduardo Gilardi-Velázquez and Guillermo Huerta-Cuellar

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040027 - 29 Oct 2024

Abstract

This work investigates the enhancement of optical energy in the synchronized dynamics of three erbium-doped fiber lasers (EDFLs) that are diffusively coupled in a unidirectional ring configuration without the need for external pump modulation. Before the system shows stable high-energy pulses, different dynamic [...] Read more.

This work investigates the enhancement of optical energy in the synchronized dynamics of three erbium-doped fiber lasers (EDFLs) that are diffusively coupled in a unidirectional ring configuration without the need for external pump modulation. Before the system shows stable high-energy pulses, different dynamic behaviors can be observed in the dynamics of the coupled lasers. The evolution of the studied system was analyzed using different techniques for different values of coupling strength. The system shows the well-known dynamic behavior towards chaos at weak coupling, starting with a fixed point at low coupling and passing through Hopf and torus bifurcations as the coupling strength increases. An interesting finding emerged at high coupling strengths, where phase locking occurs between the frequencies of the three lasers of the system. This phase-locking leads to a significant increase in the peak energy of the EDFL pulses, effectively converting the emission into short, high amplitude pulses. With this method, it is possible to significantly increase the peak energy of the laser compared to a continuous EDFL single pulse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section High-Power Laser Physics)

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14 pages, 5956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Macro X-ray Fluorescence (MA-XRF) Scanner System for In Situ Analysis of Paintings That Operates in a Static or Dynamic Method

by Renato P. de Freitas, Miguel A. de Oliveira, Matheus B. de Oliveira, André R. Pimenta, Valter de S. Felix, Marcelo O. Pereira, Elicardo A. S. Gonçalves, João V. L. Grechi, Fabricio L. e. Silva, Cristiano de S. Carvalho, Jonas G. R. S. Ataliba, Leandro O. Pereira, Lucas C. Muniz, Robson B. dos Santos and Vitor da S. Vital

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040026 - 17 Oct 2024

Abstract

This work presents the development of a macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) scanner system for in situ analysis of paintings. The instrument was developed to operate using continuous acquisitions, where the module with the X-ray tube and detector moves at a constant speed, dynamically [...] Read more.

This work presents the development of a macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) scanner system for in situ analysis of paintings. The instrument was developed to operate using continuous acquisitions, where the module with the X-ray tube and detector moves at a constant speed, dynamically collecting spectra for each pixel of the artwork. Another possible configuration for the instrument is static acquisitions, where the module with the X-ray tube and detector remains stationary to acquire spectra for each pixel. The work also includes the analytical characterization of the system, which incorporates a 1.00 mm collimator that allows for a resolution of 1.76 mm. Additionally, the study presents the results of the analysis of two Brazilian paintings using this instrument. The elemental maps obtained enabled the characterization of the pigments used in the creation of the artworks and materials used in restoration processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Macro X-ray Fluorescence Applications)

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7 pages, 1275 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Stable and Tunable Erbium Ring Laser by Rayleigh Backscattering Feedback and Saturable Absorber for Single-Mode Operation

by Chien-Yu Liao, Yu-Hsin Kao, Ying-Zhen Chen, Kuan-Ming Cheng, Chun-Yen Lin, Tsu-Hsin Wu, Teng-Yao Yang and Chien-Hung Yeh

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(4), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8040025 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

This work demonstrates a high-quality erbium-doped fiber (EDF) ring laser in the L-band gain range by combining the Rayleigh backscattering (RB) feedback signal and unpumped EDF induced saturable absorber (SA) filter. The optical filter effect induced by the RB feedback injection and EDF [...] Read more.

This work demonstrates a high-quality erbium-doped fiber (EDF) ring laser in the L-band gain range by combining the Rayleigh backscattering (RB) feedback signal and unpumped EDF induced saturable absorber (SA) filter. The optical filter effect induced by the RB feedback injection and EDF SA could generate single-longitudinal-mode (SLM) behavior and shrink the linewidth to sub-kHz. The output linewidth, power, and optical-signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) of the fiber ring laser were also shown within the 42 nm wavelength bandwidth of 1565.0 to 1607.0 nm. Also, the instabilities of output power and central wavelength of each lasing lightwave were analyzed with a measurement time of 45 min. Full article

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24 pages, 3584 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tracking Detectors in Low-Energy Nuclear Physics: An Overview

by Jelena Vesić

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030024 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Advances in accelerator technology have enabled the use of exotic and intense radioactive ion beams. Enhancements to tracking detectors are necessary to accommodate increased particle rates. Recent advancements in digital electronics have led to the construction or planning of next-generation detectors. To conduct [...] Read more.

Advances in accelerator technology have enabled the use of exotic and intense radioactive ion beams. Enhancements to tracking detectors are necessary to accommodate increased particle rates. Recent advancements in digital electronics have led to the construction or planning of next-generation detectors. To conduct kinematically complete measurements, it is essential to track and detect all particles produced as a result of the reaction. Furthermore, the need for high-precision physics experiments has led to significant developments in the detector field. In recent years, highly efficient and highly granular tracking detectors have been developed. These detectors significantly enhance the physics programme at dedicated facilities. An overview of charged-particle tracking detectors in low-energy nuclear physics will be given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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20 pages, 6840 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Does the Maximum Initial Beam Energy for Proton Therapy Have to Be 230 MeV?

by Chris J. Beltran, Alvaro Perales and Keith M. Furutani

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030023 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Proton therapy is increasingly widespread and requires an accelerator to provide the high energy protons. Most often, the accelerators used for proton therapy are cyclotrons and the maximum initial beam energy (MIBE) is about 230 MeV or more to be able to achieve [...] Read more.

Proton therapy is increasingly widespread and requires an accelerator to provide the high energy protons. Most often, the accelerators used for proton therapy are cyclotrons and the maximum initial beam energy (MIBE) is about 230 MeV or more to be able to achieve a range of approximately 30 cm in water. We ask whether such a high energy is necessary for adequate dosimetry for pathologies to be treated with proton beams. Eight patients of different clinical sites (brain, prostate, and head and neck cancers) were selected to conduct this study. We analyzed the tumor dose coverage and homogeneity, as well as healthy tissue protection for MIBE values of 120, 160, 180, 200 and 230 MeV. For each patient, a proton plan was developed using the particular MIBE and then using multifield optimization (MFO). In this way, 34 plans in total were generated to fulfill the unique clinical goals. This study found that MIBE of 120 MeV for brain tumors; 160 MeV for head and neck cancer; and remarkably, for prostate cancer, only 160 MeV for one patient case and 180 MeV for the remainder satisfied the clinical goals (words: 187 < approx. 200 words or less) Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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17 pages, 10560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Technique Characterization of Cartonnage and Linen Samples of an Egyptian Mummy from the Roman Period

by Francis Sanches, Isis Franzi, Josiane Cavalcante, Roberta Borges, Anderson de Paula, Alessandra Machado, Raysa Nardes, Ramon Santos, Hamilton Gama Filho, Renato Freitas, Joaquim Assis, Marcelino Anjos, Ricardo Lopes and Davi Oliveira

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030022 - 1 Sep 2024

Cited by 1

Abstract

The historical and cultural significance of artistic works and archaeological artifacts underscores the imperative use of non-destructive testing methods in cultural heritage objects. Analyzing pigments in artwork poses a specific analytical challenge that demands a combination of various techniques to accurately determine chemical [...] Read more.

The historical and cultural significance of artistic works and archaeological artifacts underscores the imperative use of non-destructive testing methods in cultural heritage objects. Analyzing pigments in artwork poses a specific analytical challenge that demands a combination of various techniques to accurately determine chemical compositions. In this context, our work focused on the multi-analytical characterization of samples derived from fragments of a Roman-era Egyptian mummy named Kherima, dating back to around 200 AD. To identify the layers and elemental composition of the pigments used in the decoration, various techniques were employed: X-ray microfluorescence (µXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), high-resolution optical microscopy (OM), and X-ray computed microtomography (microCT). This multi-analytical approach facilitated the identification of the original pigments in the analyzed mummy fragments, along with insights into the materials used in the ground layer and the techniques applied in artifact manufacturing, indicating their accordance with the historical period and region to which they originally belonged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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13 pages, 1975 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Generalized N-Dimensional Effective Temperature for Cryogenic Systems in Accelerator Physics

by Heetae Kim and Chang-Soo Park

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030021 - 27 Aug 2024

Abstract

Investigations into the properties of generalized effective temperature are conducted across arbitrary dimensions. Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution is displayed for one, two, and three dimensions, with effective temperatures expressed for each dimension. The energy density of blackbody radiation is examined as a function of dimensionality. [...] Read more.

Investigations into the properties of generalized effective temperature are conducted across arbitrary dimensions. Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution is displayed for one, two, and three dimensions, with effective temperatures expressed for each dimension. The energy density of blackbody radiation is examined as a function of dimensionality. Effective temperatures for non-uniform temperature distributions in one, two, three, and higher dimensions are presented, with generalizations extended to arbitrary dimensions. Furthermore, the application of generalized effective temperature is explored not only for linearly non-uniform temperature distributions but also for scenarios involving the volume fraction of two distinct temperature distributions. The effective temperature is determined for a cryogenic system supplied with both liquid nitrogen and liquid helium. This effective temperature is applied to the Coefficient of Performance (COP) in cryogenic systems and can also be applied to high-energy accelerator physics, including high-dimensional physics. Full article

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16 pages, 4422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coulomb Spike Model of Radiation Damage in Wide Band-Gap Insulators

by Jean-Marc Costantini and Tatsuhiko Ogawa

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030020 - 9 Aug 2024

Abstract

A novel Coulomb spike concept is applied to the radiation damage induced in LiF and SiO₂ with about the same mass density (~2.65 g cm⁻³) by

{}_{28}^{60}{N i}

and

{}_{36}^{84}{K r}

ions of 1.0-MeV u⁻¹ [...] Read more.

A novel Coulomb spike concept is applied to the radiation damage induced in LiF and SiO₂ with about the same mass density (~2.65 g cm⁻³) by

{}_{28}^{60}{N i}

and

{}_{36}^{84}{K r}

ions of 1.0-MeV u⁻¹ energy for about the same electronic energy loss (~10 MeV µm⁻¹). This is an alternative concept to the already known models of the Coulomb spike and inelastic thermal spike for the damage induced by swift heavy ion irradiations. The distribution of ionizations and electrostatic energy gained in the electric field by the ionized atoms is computed with the PHITS code for both targets. Further, the atomic collision cascades induced by these low-energy hot ions of about 500 eV are simulated with the SRIM2013 code. It is found that melting is reached in a small volume for SiO₂ due to the energy deposition in the subthreshold events of nuclear collisions induced by the Si and O ions. For LiF, the phonon contribution to the stopping power of the lighter Li and F ions is not sufficient to induce melting, even though the melting temperature is lower than for SiO₂. The formation of amorphous domains in SiO₂ is likely after fast quenching of the small molten pockets, whereas only point defects may be formed in LiF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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42 pages, 11257 KiB

Open AccessReview

Quantum Correlation Enhanced Optical Imaging

by Siddhant Vernekar and Jolly Xavier

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030019 - 2 Aug 2024

Cited by 2

Abstract

Quantum correlations, especially time correlations, are crucial in ghost imaging for significantly reducing the background noise on the one hand while increasing the imaging resolution. Moreover, the time correlations serve as a critical reference, distinguishing between signal and noise, which in turn enable [...] Read more.

Quantum correlations, especially time correlations, are crucial in ghost imaging for significantly reducing the background noise on the one hand while increasing the imaging resolution. Moreover, the time correlations serve as a critical reference, distinguishing between signal and noise, which in turn enable clear visualization of biological samples. Quantum imaging also addresses the challenge involved in imaging delicate biological structures with minimal photon exposure and sample damage. Here, we explore the recent progress in quantum correlation-based imaging, notably its impact on secure imaging and remote sensing protocols as well as on biological imaging. We also exploit the quantum characteristics of heralded single-photon sources (HSPS) combined with decoy state methods for secure imaging. This method uses Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) principles to reduce measurement uncertainties and protect data integrity. It is highly effective in low-photon number regimes for producing high-quality, noise-reduced images. The versatility of decoy state methods with WCSs (WCS) is also discussed, highlighting their suitability for scenarios requiring higher photon numbers. We emphasize the dual advantages of these techniques: improving image quality through noise reduction and enhancing data security with quantum encryption, suggesting significant potential for quantum imaging in various applications, from delicate biological imaging to secure quantum imaging and communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical and Biological Applications)

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16 pages, 1814 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Comparative Evaluation of Two Analytical Functions for the Microdosimetry of Ions from ¹H to ²³⁸U

by Alessio Parisi, Keith M. Furutani, Tatsuhiko Sato and Chris J. Beltran

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030018 - 10 Jul 2024

Cited by 3

Abstract

The analytical microdosimetric function (AMF) implemented in the Monte Carlo code PHITS is a unique tool that bridges the gap between macro- and microscopic scales of radiation interactions, enabling accurate microdosimetric calculations over macroscopic bodies. The original AMF was published in 2006, based [...] Read more.

The analytical microdosimetric function (AMF) implemented in the Monte Carlo code PHITS is a unique tool that bridges the gap between macro- and microscopic scales of radiation interactions, enabling accurate microdosimetric calculations over macroscopic bodies. The original AMF was published in 2006, based on the results of track structure calculations. Recently, a newer version of the AMF was proposed, incorporating an improved description of the energy loss at the microscopic scale. This study compares the older and the newer AMFs in computing microdosimetric probability distributions, mean values, and the relative biological effectiveness (RBE). To this end, 16000 microdosimetric lineal energy probability density distributions were simulated with PHITS for ions from ¹H to ²³⁸U over a broad energy range (1–1000 MeV/n). The newer AMF was found to offer superior performance, particularly for very heavy ions, producing results that align more closely with published in vitro clonogenic survival experiments. These findings suggest that the updated AMF provides a more reliable tool for microdosimetric calculations and RBE modeling, essential for ion radiation therapy and space radiation protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Beam Science: Feature Papers 2024)

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8 pages, 1959 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Prototype Setup Hardware Choice for the DUCK System

by Dmitriy Beznosko, Valeriy Aseykin, Alexander Dyshkant, Alexander Iakovlev, Oleg Krivosheev, Tatiana Krivosheev, Vladimir Shiltsev and Valeriy Zhukov

Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(3), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8030017 - 10 Jul 2024

Abstract

This article covers the overall design hardware choices for the prototyping activities for the DUCK (Detector system of Unusual Cosmic ray casKades). The primary goal of the DUCK system is to verify the existence of the unusual cosmic events reported by other collaborations [...] Read more.

This article covers the overall design hardware choices for the prototyping activities for the DUCK (Detector system of Unusual Cosmic ray casKades). The primary goal of the DUCK system is to verify the existence of the unusual cosmic events reported by other collaborations and to look at the possibilities of adding innovations to the EAS (Extensive Atmospheric Shower) analysis methods of the EAS disk measurements at the observation level. Additionally, design and construction of the system provide educational experience to the students involved in the project and are developing the research capabilities of the university campus. The prototyping process has helped to choose between various design solutions in the process of optimizing of the individual detector components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Instrumentation and Facilities)

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Quantum Beam Science

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