Abstract: In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a microwave-assisted comminution method for achieving more efficient beneficiation and later hydrometallurgical recovery of rare earth elements and other metals from coal fly ash particles. The method requires only a short processing time, is energy efficient, allows for better process control, and is environmentally advantageous compared to current methods. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure.

Abstract: A process for incorporating a nanocatalyst on the surface of and within the pores of an electrode comprising subjecting an electrode to a singular template impregnation to form a treated electrode having a bio-template layer; and then subjecting the treated electrode to a singular nano-catalyst impregnation for tethering the nano-catalyst to the treated electrode; and then removing the bio-template layer by performing thermolysis upon the treated electrode for forming a nano-catalyst bonded on the surface and within the pores of the electrode. A modified electrode or product made by this process is provided.

Abstract: A process for incorporating a nanocatalyst on the surface of and within the pores of an electrode comprising subjecting an electrode to a singular template impregnation to form a treated electrode having a bio-template layer; and then subjecting the treated electrode to a singular nano-catalyst impregnation for tethering the nano-catalyst to the treated electrode; and then removing the bio-template layer by performing thermolysis upon the treated electrode for forming a nano-catalyst bonded on the surface and within the pores of the electrode. A modified electrode or product made by this process is provided.

Abstract: A dense ceramic electrolyte membrane supported by symmetrical porous ceramic electrolyte layers. The thin (t<100 microns) electrolyte layer is sandwiched between two fugitive-containing electrolyte support layers that become highly porous after firing. The heat treated fugitive-containing support layers form a skeletal structure of strongly adhered electrolyte with an interpenetrating network of pores that extends well always from the electrolyte surface. The porous layers can be infiltrated with a range of electrode materials or precursors to form a solid oxide fuel cell or other electrochemical cell as well as electrochemical cell stacks. The supported ceramic membrane provides electrochemical performance advantages and reduces warpage during sintering compared to conventional structures.

Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to PMN compounds, powders and products thereof, especially to PMN-PT compounds, powders and products which have the perovskite structure. The PMN-PT compounds are characterized by the formula (1−x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3−xPbTiO3 where x is about 0.0 to about 0.95, preferably x is about 0.0 to about 0.40. The compounds are made by sintering a precursor powder of the compound. PMN-PT products produced from the precursor powders have much greater densities than products produced from PMN-PT starting powder. The invention also relates to textured PMN-PT produced from the precursor powders.

Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to PMN compounds, powders and products thereof, especially to PMN-PT compounds, powders and products which have the perovskite structure. The PMN-PT compounds are characterized by the formula (1−x)Pb(Mg⅓Nb⅔)O3−xPbTiO3 where x is about 0.0 to about 0.95, preferably x is about 0.0 to about 0.40. The compounds are made by sintering a precursor powder of the compound. PMN-PT products produced from the precursor powders have much greater densities than products produced from PMN-PT starting powder. The invention also relates to textured PMN-PT produced from the precursor powders.