Papers by Author: Dimitar Stoychev

Abstract: A hybrid experimental-numerical approach, which combines microindentation experiments (where we measure the diagonal of the residual imprint after unloading) and numerical simulations by means of the finite-element method has been developed. The investigated materials in the present work are electrochemically deposited on brass substrates chromium and copper films with known thickness and unknown mechanical properties. Mechanical properties of the brass (CuZn36) substrate are known. Vickers’ microindentation experiments were carried out on the films and as a result the experimental load-displacement curves were obtained. After that the process of microindentation was modelled numerically by means of the finite-element method. Numerically obtained load-displacement curves were compared with the experimental curves. The results show good coincidence between numerical and experimental curves. Additionally it was realized nanoindentation experiment of thin copper film and these two methods (nanoindentation experiment and hybrid experimental-numerical method which combines experiment of microindentation and numerical simulations) for determination of mechanival properties of thin copper films were compared. Results obtained by means of the afore-mentioned two methods almost coincide but the second method is cheaper and gives more information about material properties of the film than the first method. It is shown that the second method is preferable to determine the mechanical properties of thin metal films.

Abstract: In the present work, the surface properties of various Al oxide films were investigated. The oxide films were produced on a stainless steel by spray pyrolysis and cathodic deposition methods. The films obtained represent typical layers that can be used as a support in model systems to investigate alumina-based catalysts. Information about the chemical environment of the Al and O ions in the oxide films depending on the preparation conditions has been deduced from the binding energies of the Al 2p and O 1s electron core levels and corresponding Auger parameters.

Abstract: We have investigated the deposition of ZrO2 and Al2O3 films on a stainless steel (SS) substrate by spray pyrolysis method. The ZrO2 films were deposited from aqueous solution of zirconium dinitrate oxide. For Al2O3 films, a boehmite sol was used. The specific surface areas of samples were determined by the BET-method and sample surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The spray pyrolysis method permits the preparation of ZrO2 and Al2O3 thin films on SS with good adhesion. This method enables preparation of oxide layers with relatively high specific surface area, suitable for applications as catalysts supports.