The optimal simulated structure was approached in the experiments. Deposition from concentrated 140 nm NPs suspension enabled of 11 % surface coverage. For this sample the measured reflection was about 25 % in the vissible range while simulation predicted antireflection like effect with even 0 % reflection for 490 nm. This dispcreapncy was the driving force for the actual microstructural features investigation. Surprisingly, the diffused component of total reflection showing position of plasmonic peaks corelated well with simulated predictions. The investigated ascepct covered: influence of NPs size distributions, random arrangement and presence of agglomerates. Cumulated results indicated really increded reflection and hence partially explained observed discrepancy.

Magnesium alloys are among the lightest structural materials and have a sufficient yield strength at the same time, what determines their potential use in the aerospace and automotive industries. Currently, magnesium alloys are used on a small scale in the parts are not subjected to high dynamic loads, mainly the housing made of die cast (BMW, VW, Chevrolet, Mitsubishi), replacing the traditionally used alloys with a higher specific density. However, the magnesium alloys have several important drawbacks which severely limit their broader use: the tendency to corrosion, flammability and low ductility at room temperature.
The high reactivity of magnesium as the element of the second group of the Periodic Table contributes to increased corrosion processes, particularly in a chloride environment. In a typical urban environment corrosion of magnesium alloys is not progressing as quickly, and the corrosion resistance is achieved by using alloys of high purity, characterized by a low content of such elements. Iron, nickel, cobalt and copper. The danger posed by the use of magnesium alloys is best illustrated by example the greatest catastrophe in the history of motorsport in Le Mans, which killed more than 80 spectators and driver, and 120 people were injured. Magnesium alloy racing car Mercedes-Benz 300SLR hit the stands calling restorative to extinguish the fire, which contributed to increase the size of the tragedy.

This month sweat and tears have been my companions. Besides of dissertation writing, I was working on selection of the most favorable PEM-architecture for VEGF adsorption and endothelial cell adhesion and viability, as well as investigated in vitro bioactivity of the VEGF-functionalized biomaterial. Three different PEM films have been chosen: PLL/HA, PLL/HA cross-linked and PLL/HA with nanoparticles. Cellular response was chemo-mechano-regulated by VEGF growth factor introduction as well as NHS/EDC cross-linking and silver nanoparticles incorporation. At first VEGF adsorption efficiency and release kinetics were investigated. We were also interested in the positive effects of VEGF-functionalized PEM films on HUVECs proliferation. To complete results, chemo-mechano-regulation was applied to observe changes in pro-angiogenic factors’ secretion by endothelial cells.

3D pair analysis for liquid binary and ternary metallic solutions have been performed. Local short-range structure from both used approaches are adequate. Bond-angle distribution functions have been also determined.

I spent the first two weeks of this new year in Amsterdam attending
a school dedicated to molecular-dynamics simulations, MolSim2015.
Besides, I was polishing my dissertation.