Objective
Research objectives and contents Since their discovery in 1984, quasicrystals have been extensively studied and have generated both theoretical and practical interests. Many aspects of the physics of quasicrystals are still poorly understood: their atomic structure, mechanical properties, stability and phase transitions. Also the mechanisms responsible for atomic diffusion is still under debate. These basic issues are all strongly related to the existence of atomic jumps, also called phason jumps. We have made a systematic neutron scattering study of these jumps in AlCuFe and AlMnPd quasicrystals, and evidenced a very special atomic motion specific to quasicristalline alloys. Our project aims at completing and continuing this study by using 57Fe Mossbauer. The main goal is to characterise Fe dynamics in AlCuFe alloys, both quasicrystals and cristalline approximants phases. This could provide invaluable information for our understanding of the hopping dynamics. Moreover, measurements with nuclear resonance techniques using synchrotron radiation will yield very accurate information about the structure. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) This project represents a full training in Mossbauer spectroscopy techniques with two innovating methods. The work will be performed at the host institution under the guidance of a specialist with international recognition, and in interaction with the famous theoretical group of Tubingen. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
Funding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
47048 Duisburg
Germany