Abstract: A method of non-destructive detection of solid inclusions with varying sensitivities but highly congruent positional identification by both short-wavelength and long-wavelength methods. The short-wavelength method consists of lateral scatter (LS) and the long-wavelength method consists of THz imaging. The LS method was able to detect all agglomerated inclusions, transparency variations, voids, and localized phase differences. The THz imaging was able to routinely detect solid inclusions and index inhomogeneity. In combination, the LS and THz imaging methods were able to detect all relevant types of material variation, so that the combination of the two non-destructive testing methods provides a solution capable of detecting the full array of critical material variations in transparent polycrystalline ceramic materials.

Abstract: A method of non-destructive detection of solid inclusions with varying sensitivities but highly congruent positional identification by both short-wavelength and long-wavelength methods. The short-wavelength method consists of lateral scatter (LS) and the long-wavelength method consists of THz imaging. The LS method was able to detect all agglomerated inclusions, transparency variations, voids, and localized phase differences. The THz imaging was able to routinely detect solid inclusions and index inhomogeneity. In combination, the LS and THz imaging methods were able to detect all relevant types of material variation, so that the combination of the two non-destructive testing methods provides a synergistic solution capable of detecting the full array of critical material variations in transparent polycrystalline ceramic materials.

Abstract: An automated scanning system and method, utilizing specialized dual phased array ultrasonic transducers for producing and detecting Rayleigh waves in ceramic bearing balls are provided for nondestructive, non-contact inspection of ceramic bearing balls. The phased array ultrasonic transducer utilizes a complex curvature configuration that enables the dual phased array ultrasonic transducers to focus ultrasonic energy onto the ball to optimally generate and receive Rayleigh wave signals in the spherical objects.

Abstract: An automated scanning system and method, utilizing specialized dual phased array ultrasonic transducers for producing and detecting Rayleigh waves in ceramic bearing balls are provided for nondestructive, non-contact inspection of ceramic bearing balls. The phased array ultrasonic transducer utilizes a complex curvature configuration that enables the dual phased array ultrasonic transducers to focus ultrasonic energy onto the ball to optimally generate and receive Rayleigh wave signals in the spherical objects.

Abstract: A chemical-mechanical polishing pad, and method of polishing a substrate using a polishing pad, comprising (a) a resilient subpad, and (b) a polymeric polishing film substantially coextensive with the resilient subpad, wherein the polymeric polishing film comprises (i) a polishing surface that is substantially free of bound abrasive particles, and (ii) a back surface releasably associated with the resilient subpad.

Abstract: A three-dimensional integrated circuit that provides reduced interconnect signal delay over known 2-dimensional systems. The three-dimensional integrated circuit also allows improved circuit cooling. The three-dimensional integrated circuit includes two or more electrically connected integrated circuits, separated by a cooling channel.

Abstract: A current-controlling device comprising a first conductor, a second conductor, and a tunneling barrier comprising a first insulating layer between the first conductor and the second conductor. The tunneling barrier electrically isolates the first conductor from the second conductor. At least one mobile charge is positionable within the tunneling barrier. The device also includes a gate, wherein a voltage applied to the gate with respect to the substrate (or with respect to a second gate formed on or in the substrate) modulates or moves the mobile charge to a position between the first conductor and the second conductor within the tunneling barrier, thus deforming the shape of the energy barrier between the first conductor and the second conductor. The deformation can cause a current to flow between the conductors when a voltage is present between them due to quantum mechanical tunneling.

Abstract: Methods for controllably polishing fiber optic connectors that include a ferrule enclosing single or multiple optical fibers by manipulating the ingredients of the polishing composition to control the relative polishing rates of the ferrule material and the optical fiber material to obtain the desired connector end face surface finish and geometry.

Abstract: An aqueous chemical mechanical polishing slurry useful for polishing the polysilicon layer of a semiconductor wafer comprising an aqueous solution of at least one abrasive, and at least one alcoholamine. The slurry preferably has a pH of from about 9.0 to about 10.5 and it includes an optional buffering agent.

Abstract: An aqueous chemical mechanical polishing slurry useful for polishing the polysilicon layer of a semiconductor wafer comprising an aqueous solution of at least one abrasive, and at least one alcoholamine. The slurry preferably has a pH of from about 9.0 to about 10.5 and it includes an optional buffering agent.

Abstract: An aqueous chemical mechanical polishing slurry useful for polishing the polysilicon layer of a semiconductor wafer comprising an aqueous solution of at least one abrasive, and at least one alcoholamine. The slurry preferably has a pH of from about 9.0 to about 10.5 and it includes an optional buffering agent.