st. Petersburg State University (SPbGU) have created a non-contact thermometer based on neodymium, a metal used to create filters for magnets, photographic lenses and other devices. The development is capable of measuring ultra-low temperatures down to -253°C in space and other harsh conditions. This was reported to socialbites.ca by the Russian Science Foundation (RSF), which supports the research project.
As explained at St Petersburg University, it is often very difficult or impossible to measure temperature using the contact method: in a processor chip, in a specific organ inside the body, in the vent of a volcano or in interstellar space. In such cases, a non-contact thermometer is used, using phosphors that absorb light and emit their own glow. The properties of luminous particles are directly dependent on the state of the medium, allowing it to be measured accurately. However, this method is inefficient at very low temperatures.
Petersburg researchers solved the problem by proposing to use oxide nanoparticles activated by neodymium ions. The experts created a composition of isopropyl alcohol and nanoparticle powder, and then applied this suspension to the control object. When the alcohol evaporated, a layer of oxide remained on the surface of the object. When irradiated with invisible infrared light, the particles began to glow in the infrared range, making it possible to determine the temperature.
According to scientists, the technology could be used for research in low-temperature superconductors and space. To do this, the necessary parts must be pre-treated with a phosphorus composition.
In the future, scientists plan to increase the measurement range to liquid helium temperature of -268 °C.
Ancient Russian scientists developed Durable clear coating to protect satellite solar panels from collision with space debris.