Abstract: Disclosed is a method of providing photocatalytic activity. Nanoparticulate matter comprising a strontium titanate ferrite of the general formula SrTi1-xFexO3- is provided, in which x is any value from 0 to 1. The nanoparticulate matter is exposed to electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 800 nm.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of providing photocatalytic activity. Nanoparticulate matter comprising a strontium titanate ferrite of the general formula SrTi1-xFexO3- is provided, in which x is any value from 0 to 1. The nanoparticulate matter is exposed to electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 800 nm.

Abstract: A process to produce dense nanocrystalline composites such as ceramic bodies, coatings and multi-layered devices with uniform microstructure is disclosed. The invention utilizes sol-gel solutions to reduce agglomeration of nanocrystalline powders in the production of “green bodies” or intermediate products. This novel use of sol-gel solutions also reduces grain growth and porosity in products during sintering. In finished products, final grain sizes are typically less than 100 nm with densities of the final products approaching 99.5% of theoretical densities. In addition, sintering temperatures required are lower than those in conventional methods, typically less than 1,100° C. While FIG. 1 shows one application of this novel process, this invention has wide application in the manufacture of many other products, particularly for composite coatings and in the production of nanodevices.

Abstract: An interferometer has a source for generating a first beam and a second beam of a coherent monochromatic light having a wavelength ?, optical elements for directing the beams through two different optical paths having a path-length difference, a detector for detection of an interference signal of the beams, and a modulator for additionally varying the path-length difference periodically to allow the interference signal be detected near a path-length difference of ?/4 periodically. A maximum intensity change in the interference signal caused by a small period change of the path-length difference is thus detectable. The maximum intensity change caused by varying the path-length difference by at least ?/2 may also be detectable. The interferometer may be used to measure small vibrations, without pre-calibration and/or a feedback servo system for keeping the path-length difference near ?/4.