A crystal structure refers to the orderly arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a crystalline material. The arrangement is periodic, meaning that it repeats itself in three-dimensional space, forming a lattice structure. Each point in the lattice represents the position of an atom or a group of atoms, known as a unit cell, which is the smallest repeating unit that can describe the entire crystal structure.

Crystallographic disorder refers to a situation in solid materials, particularly in crystalline solids, where there is a deviation from the ideal periodic arrangement of atoms or molecules in the crystal lattice. This disorder can manifest in various forms, such as: 1. **Occupancy Disorder**: Certain atomic sites in the crystal structure may be occupied by different types of atoms or molecules with varying probabilities.

**Digital Image Correlation (DIC)** is an optical method used primarily to measure displacement and strain on structures and materials. It involves capturing images of a surface before and after deformation, using a high-resolution camera system. Here's how it works: 1. **Surface Preparation**: The object of interest is typically coated with a random speckle pattern, which acts as a reference for tracking movement. This speckle pattern can be created through various means, such as painting or using adhesive sand.

Elastic Recoil Detection (ERD) is a nuclear analytical technique used primarily for the analysis of thin films and surface layers of materials. In this method, high-energy ions (like protons or alpha particles) are directed at a target sample. When these ions collide with the nuclei of atoms in the sample, some of the target atoms can be recoiled out of the sample due to the elastic scattering process.

A eutectic system refers to a specific type of mixture of two or more substances that has distinct melting and solidification characteristics. In a eutectic system, the components are mixed in such a way that their melting point is lower than that of any of the individual components. The term "eutectic" itself comes from the Greek words "eu" meaning well and "tekein" meaning to melt, referring to the mixture's favorable melting behavior.

An evanescent field refers to a type of electromagnetic field that occurs in the vicinity of a surface, typically in the context of total internal reflection or near-field optics. When a wave, such as light, travels from a medium with a higher refractive index to one with a lower refractive index at an angle greater than the critical angle, it undergoes total internal reflection.

The Flory–Rehner equation is a fundamental relationship used in polymer science to describe the thermodynamics of crosslinked poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) networks and other similar polymer systems. It relates the degree of swelling of a crosslinked polymer network in a solvent to the interaction between the polymer and solvent, as well as the network's elastic properties.

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are advanced composite materials that exhibit a gradual variation in composition, microstructure, and properties across their volume. This variation is typically designed to achieve a specific performance profile, such as improved strength, toughness, thermal resistance, or other desired characteristics. The primary features of functionally graded materials include: 1. **Gradual Variation**: Unlike traditional composites, which have distinct layers or phases, FGMs have a continuous and smooth transition between different materials.

Gorilla Glass is a brand of specialized glass developed by Corning Inc. It is engineered to be thin, light, and exceptionally strong, making it ideal for use in various electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearables. The glass is designed to be resistant to scratches, drops, and other forms of damage, enhancing the durability of devices that use it. Gorilla Glass is made through a unique chemical-strengthening process that increases its toughness compared to regular glass.

High-frequency impulse measurement typically refers to techniques used in various fields, such as electronics, telecommunications, and materials science, to analyze responses of systems to high-frequency signals or short-duration impulses. This kind of measurement is crucial for understanding the dynamic behavior of systems, components, or materials under rapid changes.

High pressure generally refers to a condition where the atmospheric pressure is greater than the surrounding areas. In meteorology, high pressure systems are associated with clear skies and calm weather because the air descends, preventing clouds from forming. Here are some contexts in which "high pressure" can be discussed: 1. **Meteorology**: High pressure systems lead to fair weather as descending air inhibits cloud formation.

The Impulse Excitation Technique (IET) is a non-destructive testing method used to characterize the mechanical properties of materials, particularly in terms of their elastic properties. This technique is often employed in the fields of materials science, structural engineering, and quality control for various materials including metals, ceramics, composites, and polymers. ### Basic Principles: 1. **Impulse Generation**: The process begins by applying a mechanical impulse to the material or component being tested.

An interstitial defect refers to a type of point defect in a crystalline structure where an atom or ion occupies a position in the crystal lattice that is not normally occupied by an atom of that kind. In simpler terms, it occurs when extra atoms are inserted into the spaces or "interstices" between the regular lattice sites of a crystal structure. Interstitial defects can occur in various types of materials, including metals, semiconductors, and ionic compounds.

Kagome metal is a type of material known for its unique structural properties, which is often related to its application in various fields, including electronics and materials science. The term "Kagome" originates from a traditional Japanese basketweaving pattern that features a geometric, honeycomb-like structure. In materials science, Kagome structures typically refer to materials that have a two-dimensional lattice arrangement, resembling the Kagome pattern.

A macrograph generally refers to a large-scale representation or visualization of data or information that is intended to provide an overview or highlight key patterns, trends, and relationships within the data. The term can be applied in various fields, such as: 1. **Mathematics and Statistics**: A macrograph might represent aggregated data sets to illustrate overall trends, such as in population studies, economic reports, or scientific data analysis.

Laser-Heated Pedestal Growth (LHPG) is a crystal growth technique primarily used for the synthesis of high-quality single crystals of materials, particularly semiconductors and other advanced materials. The technique utilizes a focused laser beam to create a localized heating zone at the interface between a solid crystal and a liquid melt, known as the pedestal.

Lightweighting refers to the process of reducing the weight of a product, structure, or component while maintaining or enhancing its performance, safety, and structural integrity. This practice is particularly relevant in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods. The key objectives of lightweighting include: 1. **Fuel Efficiency**: In the automotive and aerospace industries, lighter vehicles consume less fuel, leading to reduced operational costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Lode coordinates are a system used in material science, particularly in the study of plasticity and the behavior of materials under stress. Specifically, Lode coordinates help describe the state of stress in materials through a graphical representation in a triangular coordinate system. In three-dimensional stress space, the Lode parameter is associated with the third invariant of the deviatoric stress tensor, which provides insight into how materials yield and fail under various loading conditions.

MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) thermal actuators are tiny devices that convert thermal energy into mechanical motion at the micro scale. These actuators leverage the principle of thermal expansion, where materials expand or contract in response to temperature changes, to produce movement.

Materiomics is an interdisciplinary field that combines materials science, biology, and data science to study and analyze the properties, functions, and interactions of biological materials at various levels. It focuses on understanding the relationships between the structure and composition of materials and their biological effects, which can include responses to stimuli, interactions with cells, and overall functionality in biological systems.