Date Thesis Awarded
5-2023
Access Type
Honors Thesis -- Open Access
Degree Name
Bachelors of Science (BS)
Department
Physics
Advisor
Mumtaz Qazilbash
Committee Members
Margaret Saha
Keith Griffioen
Abstract
The objective of this study is to design and construct an in-situ strain tuning apparatus that is suitable for spectroscopy and resistivity measurements of strongly-correlated materials. The developed apparatus utilizes a piezoelectric actuator and a strain gauge-wheatstone bridge system to apply and measure strain on material samples. The design takes into consideration the mechanical requirements necessary to apply strain to a sample as well as the geometrical constraints of the infrared microscope setup used for spectroscopic measurements. The piezoelectric actuator is used to apply a controlled amount of strain to the material sample. The strain is measured using a strain gauge-wheatstone bridge system that detects changes in the strain gauges resistance caused by the deformation of the sample. This information is measured and allows experimenters to adjust the strain applied in real-time. The strain gauge-wheatstone bridge system is capable of measuring small changes in strain with high accuracy, which is necessary for the precise control of the applied strain. The design of the apparatus also takes into account the geometrical constraints of the infrared microscope setup used for spectroscopic measurements. The apparatus is designed to conform to the dimensions of the existing infrared spectroscopy setup, allowing for easy integration into existing experiments. The sample is positioned in the center of the infrared microscope’s field of view, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of both the optical and electronic properties of the sample under strain. The position of the apparatus is also adjustable, which allows for calibration of the optical alignment of the sample.
Recommended Citation
Kazianga, Ubaid, "Design of an Apparatus for Strain Tuning of Materials." (2023). Undergraduate Honors Theses. William & Mary. Paper 2022.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/honorstheses/2022
