Part 4/7:
Discovering Structural Changes through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
A key moment in Gia's narrative is when the team sent samples to Edwin Storms’ labs for in-depth analysis. The resulting SEM images revealed the substances were primarily comprised of lithium aluminum, showcasing a complex interaction with nickel. The visual data illustrated a unique encapsulation of nickel grains by lithium-based compounds, hinting at a possibly protective layer formed during the reaction process.
Gia highlights that this encapsulation may play a vital role in maintaining the nickel's properties and preventing unwanted side reactions. By preparing the nickel to exist in a metastable state, the overall efficacy and stability of the fuel mixture could be enhanced significantly.