Papers by Author: V. Ganesan

Abstract: Evolution of domain structures across the martensitic transition (Tm) in the ferromagnetic shape memory alloy system Ni-Mn-Ga is studied using an optical microscope with a temperature variation. Compositions chosen have Tm < Tc, Tm = Tc and Tm > Tc, (Tc=Curie temperature) so that one can compare the nature of martensitic domains. There are no appreciable domain structures when Tm < Tc as compared to the one with Tm > Tc. However, giant morphological changes in the form of appearance of well-developed domains that are propagating with different directions are seen for the composition in which Tm=Tc. The results are discussed in the light of Magnetic Force Microscopy observations as well as giant entropy changes known to occur on samples with co-occurrence of Tm and Tc.

Abstract: During the last two decades, the use of transparent conducting films of non-stoichiometric and doped metallic oxides for the conversion of solar energy into electrical energy has assumed great significance. A variety of materials, using various deposition techniques, has been tried for this purpose [1-3]. Among these various materials, zinc oxide (ZnO) is one of the prominent oxide semiconductors suitable for photovoltaic applications because of its high electrical conductivity and optical transmittance in the visible region of the solar spectrum [4]. Furthermore, thin films of ZnO have shown good chemical stability against hydrogen plasma, which is of prime importance in a-Si:H-based solar-cell fabrication. Thus, zinc oxide can serve as a good candidate for replacing SnO2 and indium tin oxide (ITO) films in Si:H-based solar cells. One of the outstanding features of ZnO is its large excitonic binding energy, i.e. 60meV, leading to the existence of excitons at room temperature and even at higher temperatures [5-8]. These unique characteristics have generated a wide range of applications of ZnO. For example, gas sensors [9], surface acoustic devices [10], transparent electrodes and solar cells. Many techniques are used for preparing the transparent conducting ZnO films, such as RF sputtering [11], evaporation [12], chemical vapour deposition [13], ion beam sputtering [14] and spray pyrolysis [15–18]. Among these, the spray pyrolysis technique has attracted considerable attention due to its simplicity and large-scale production combined with low-cost fabrication. By using this technique, one can produce large-area coatings without any need for ultra-high vacuum. Thus, the capital cost and the production cost of high-quality zinc oxide semiconductor thin films are lowest among all other techniques. In the present work, we have synthesized ZnO films by using the spray pyrolysis technique. A number of films have been prepared by changing the molarity of the precursor solution. The prepared films have been characterized with regard to their structural, morphological and electrical properties.

Abstract: Influence of structural transition in the evolution of the magnetic domains in the ferromagnetic shape memory alloy system Ni2+xMn1-xGa is reported here using Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) studies. Studies reported are with two samples with their martensite transition temperature TM less than and greater than the Curie temperature Tc. Present results show an evolution of MFM across the Tc with a clear twin domains and sub domain structures inside the twins. The higher spatial resolution of MFM (~50nm) as compared to optical microscope (400nm) is useful in probing the domain walls. Force derivative of the MFM signal that may be used as an order parameter seems to scale the onset of magnetic order in the system. One can clearly see the vanishing of the MFM patterns for T>Tc. Results are discussed in the light of models available for tip-sample interactions that track the local magnetization.

Abstract: Polymers are prepared by various methods. The method of preparation plays an important role in deciding many of the physical properties of polymers. In this work Poly (Methyl Acrylate), PMA, is synthesized by free radical addition polymerization in the presence a monomer, an initiator under the influence of ultrasound. Methyl Acrylate (E-Merck, India) of proper strength is mixed with aqueous sodium peroxodisulphate solution of known strength and the time of passage of ultrasound is varied in steps of 30 minutes and 10 samples of solid PMA are obtained for 10 different periods of passage of ultrasound. Solid PMA samples are purified and air-dried under clean environment. TGA, DTA measurements are done on all the 10 PMA samples. The thermal stability of PMA with the change in the time of passage of ultrasound is discussed quantitatively. The thermal stability of PMA, synthesized sonochemically shows better results over the thermal method of synthesis. However in this paper we report the measurements made on PMA samples synthesized at 30 and 300 minutes sonication periods respectively.