A series of laser pump, x-ray probe experiments show that above band gap photoexcitation can generate a large out-of-plane strain in multiferroic BiFeO3 thin films. The strain decays in a time scale that is the same as the photo-induced carriers measured in an optical transient absorption spectroscopy experiment. We attribute the strain to the piezoelectric effect due to screening of the depolarization field by laser induced carriers. A strong film thickness dependence of strain and carrier relaxation is also observed, revealing the role of the carrier transport in determining the structural and carrier dynamics in complex oxide thin films.

CRM developed a probe determining the raw material trajectories in bell-less top charging, by measuring the force generated by the material stream on a beam, in function of its position in the furnace. A prototype probe was tested on an industrial blast furnace during its first charging after a relining. These trials allowed the determination of both coke and sinter trajectories for the various chute angles. These results were validated by measurements carried out simultaneously by Irsid with painted bars.

The main operating results of the European blast furnaces in 1998 are presented. The parameters influencing the productivity of blast furnaces are recalled. In Europe, actions have been taken to optimize blast furnaces operation: composition and quality of the burden, burden distribution, tapping practice, etc. Further improvements of the operating performances are expected.