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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 199 records · Page 11
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1986

Microwave performance of a quarter-micrometer gate low-noise pseudomorphic InGaAs/AlGaAs modulation-doped field effect transistor

Excellent dc and millimeter-wave performance is reported in In0.15Ga0.85As/Al0.15Ga0.85As pseudomorphic modulation-doped field effect transistors (MODFET's) with 0.25-micron-length gates. Extrinsic transconductances as high as 495 mS/mm at 300 K and unprecedented power performance in the 60-GHz range were observed. Although not yet optimized, excellent low noise characteristics, 0.9 dB, with an associated gain of 10.4 dB at 18 GHz, and a noise figure of 2.4 dB with an associated gain of 4.4 dB at 62 GHz were obtained. This is the best noise performance ever reported for a MODFET in this frequency range. These results clearly demonstrate the superiority of pseudomorphic MODFET structures in high-frequency applications.

Henderson, T.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Guided-wave approaches to spectrally selective energy absorption

Results of experiments designed to demonstrate spectrally selective absorption in dielectric waveguides on semiconductor substrates are reported. These experiments were conducted with three waveguides formed by sputtering films of PSK2 glass onto silicon-oxide layers grown on silicon substrates. The three waveguide samples were studied at 633 and 532 nm. The samples differed only in the thickness of the silicon-oxide layer, specifically 256 nm, 506 nm, and 740 nm. Agreement between theoretical predictions and measurements of propagation constants (mode angles) of the six or seven modes supported by these samples was excellent. However, the loss measurements were inconclusive because of high scattering losses in the structures fabricated (in excess of 10 dB/cm). Theoretical calculations indicated that the power distribution among all the modes supported by these structures will reach its steady state value after a propagation length of only 1 mm. Accordingly, the measured loss rates were found to be almost independent of which mode was initially excited. The excellent agreement between theory and experiment leads to the conclusion that low loss waveguides confirm the predicted loss rates.

Stegeman, G. I.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Science at NASA field centers: Findings and recommendations on the scope, strength and interactions of science and science-related technology programs

Great achievements by NASA and other space agencies have shown us what opportunities lie in the opening of the space frontier. A broad and vigorous science program in NASA is vital to full U.S. exploitation of these new opportunities. Today, science in NASA Centers is characterized by its breadth, relevance, and excellence. The NASA in-house science program and its links to university programs constitute a vitally important national resource. Maintaining excellence as a foundation for the future is a fundamental responsibility of NASA, one that requires constant attention and effort. This report by the NASA Center Science Assessment Team documents the current state of science within NASA and recommends actions to maintain a healthy program. NASA scientists have always played key roles in planning, guiding, and conducting national programs in space science. The review of Center science programs is intended to ensure that both NASA and the nation can depend on their continuing contribution in these roles.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1987

Protective coatings for composite tubes in space applications

Protective coatings for graphite/epoxy (Gr/Ep) tubular structures for a manned Space Station truss structure were evaluated. The success of the composite tube truss structure depends on its stability to long-term exposure to the low earth orbit (LEO) environment, with particular emphasis placed on atomic oxygen. Concepts for protectively coating Gr/Ep tubes include use of inorganic coated metal foils and electroplating. These coatings were applied to Gr/Ep tubes and then subjected to simulated LEO environment to evaluate survivability of coatings and coated tubes. Evaluation included: atomic oxygen resistance, changes in optical properties and adhesion, abrasion resistance, surface preparation required, coating uniformity, and formation of microcracks in the Gr/Ep tubes caused by thermal cycling. Program results demonstrated that both phosphoric and chromic acid anodized Al foil provided excellent adhesion to Gr/Ep tubes and exhibited stable optical properties when subjected to simulated LEO environment. The SiO2/Al coatings sputtered onto Al foils also resulted in an excellent protective coating. Electroplated Ni exhibited unacceptable adhesion loss to Gr/Ep tubes during atomic oxygen exposure.

Dursch, Harry W.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Higher order diffractions from a circular disk

The backscattering from a circular disk is analyzed using the geometrical theory of diffraction. First-, second-, and third-order diffractions are included in the hard polarization analysis, while first-, second-, and third-order slope diffractions are included for soft polarization. Improvements in the prediction of the monostatic radar cross section over previous works are noted. For hard polarization, an excellent agreement is exhibited between experimental and theoretical results, while a very good agreement is noted for soft polarization. To further improve the soft polarization results for wide angles, a model for the creeping wave or circulating current on the edge of the disk is obtained and used to find an additional component of the backscattered field. The addition of this component significantly improves the results for wide angles, leading to excellent agreement for soft polarization also. An axial-caustic correction method using equivalent currents is also included in the analysis.

Marsland, Diane P.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Soluble Aromatic Polyimides For Film Coating

Because of toughness, flexibility, and remarkable thermal stability, linear all-aromatic polyimides excellent candidate film and coating materials for advanced electronic circuitry and wires. Study determined effects on solubility of changing isomeric points of attachment of phenoxy units in diamine portions of several all-aromatic polyimides. Tough, flexible, transparent films produced by thermally converting polyamic acids to polyimides at 300 degree C in air. Potential for electronic applications excellent.

St. Clair, Anne K.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Fiber reinforced superalloys for rocket engines

High-pressure turbopumps for advanced reusable liquid-propellant rocket engines such as that for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) require turbine blade materials that operate under extreme conditions of temperature, hydrogen environment, high-cycle fatigue loading, thermal fatigue and thermal shock. Such requirements tax the capabilities of current blade materials. Based on projections of properties for tungsten fiber reinforced superalloy (FRS) composites, it was concluded that FRS turbine blades offer the potential of a several-fold increase in life and over a 200C increase in temperature capability over current SSME blade material. FRS composites were evaluated with respect to mechanical property requirements for SSME blade applications. Compared to the current blade material, the thermal shock resistance of FRS materials is excellent, two to nine times better, and their thermal fatigue resistance is equal to or higher than the current blade material. FRS materials had excellent low and high-cycle fatigue strengths, and thermal shock-induced surface microcracks had no influence on their fatigue strength. The material also exhibited negligible embrittlement when exposed to a hydrogen environment.

Petrasek, Donald W.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Flight motor set 360L001 (STS-26R), volume 1

The NASA space shuttle flight STS-26R, launched at 11:37.00.009 a.m. EDT on 29 Sep. 1988, used the redesigned solid rocket motors (RSRM) 360LOO1A and 360LOO1B. Evaluation of the ground environment instrumentation (GEI) data recorded prior to flight showed: (1) no launch commit criteria violations, (2) that the field joint heater and aft skirt thermal conditioning systems performed adequately, and (3) that the GEI data showed good agreement with thermal model predictions. Evaluation of the developmental flight instrumentation (DFI) revealed excellent agreement with both the predicted and required ballistic specifications. All parameters were well within the CEI specification requirements including propellant burn rates, specific impulse values, and thrust imbalance. Recorded strain values also indicated satisfactory radial growth and stress levels, as well as verification of adequate safety factors. Postflight inspection of the insulation, seals, case, and nozzles showed overall excellent performance. Some thermal DFI protective cork was missing, and inoperative field joint vent valves on the thermal protection cork allowed water entry into the field joints upon splashdown. Evaluation of these anomalies, as well as complete evaluation of all RSRM components, is presented.

Ricks, Glen A.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Fiber reinforced superalloys for rocket engines

High pressure turbopumps for advanced reusable liquid propellant rocket engines such as that for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) require turbine blade materials that operate under extreme conditions of temperature, hydrogen environment, high-cycle fatigue loading, thermal fatigue and thermal shock. Such requirements tax the capabilities of current blade materials. Based on projections of properties for tungsten fiber reinforced superalloy (FRS) composites, it was concluded that FRS turbine blades offer the potential of a several fold increase in life and over a 200 C increase in temperature capability over the current SSME blade material. FRS composites were evaluated with respect to mechanical property requirements for SSME blade applications. Compared to the current blade material, the thermal shock resistance of FRS materials is excellent, two to nine times better, and their thermal fatigue resistance is equal to or higher than the current blade material. FRS materials had excellent low and high-cycle fatigue strengths, and thermal shock-induced surface microcracks had no influence on their fatigue strength. The material also exhibited negligible embrittlement when exposed to a hydrogen environment.

Petrasek, Donald W.↗
NASA NTRS1989

A prediction of high-speed rotor noise

A combined computational (CFD) and integral approach solves the acoustic pressure fields of two high-speed helicopter rotors. A CFD code supplies boundary data to a non-linear type of Kirchhoff integral formulation to find the far-field pressures. Direct calculations of pressures are given by the CFD code up to the sonic cylinder where the Kirchhoff method takes over. This paper shows predictions and measurements of High-Speed Impulsive (HSI) noise in hover for two different rotor geometries. One rotor has a conventional rectangular planform, while the other rotor is highly swept and tapered. The swept rotor analysis forms the majority of this paper. Test data from both rotors are shown and compared with predictions for a range of tip Mach numbers from .85 to .95 (including delocalization). The correlation with the near-field pressures from the straight bladed experiment is excellent and good to excellent correlation is seen for the far-field pressures from both experiments.

Purcell, Timothy W.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Polyimides containing carbonyl and ether connecting groups - II

In a study of polyimides containing carbonyl and ether connecting groups between aromatic rings, several new polyimides were prepared and characterized. A few of these polymers were semicrystalline. Glass transition temperatures ranged from 164 to 258 C, and crystalline melt temperatures were observed between 350 and 424 C. The semicrystalline polyimide from the reaction of 3.3',4,4'-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride and 1,3-bis(4-aminophenoxy-4'-benzoyl)benzene provided transparent orange films with excellent tensile properties, exceptional resistance to solvents and strong base, and high thermooxidative stability. In addition, this polyimide provided excellent adhesive strength for joining titanium (6Al-4V) to titanium.

Hergenrother, P. M.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Electromagnetic scattering by a straight thin wire

The traveling-wave energy, which multiply diffracts on a straight thin wire, is represented as a sum of terms, each with a distinct physical meaning, that can be individually examined in the time domain. Expressions for each scattering mechanism on a straight thin wire are cast in the form of four basic electromagnetic wave concepts: diffraction, attachment, launch, and reflection. Using the basic mechanisms from P. Ya. Ufimtsev (1962), each of the scattering mechanisms is included into the total scattered field for the straight thin wire. Scattering as a function of angle and frequency is then compared to the moment-method solution. These analytic expressions are then extended to a lossy wire with a simple approximate modification using the propagation velocity on the wire as derived from the Sommerfeld wave on a straight lossy wire. Both the perfectly conducting and lossy wire solutions are compared to moment-method results, and excellent agreement is found. As is common with asymptotic solutions, when the electrical length of wire is smaller than 0.2 lambda the results lose accuracy. The expressions modified to approximate the scattering for the lossy thin wire yield excellent agreement even for lossy wires where the wire radius is on the order of skin depth.

Shamansky, Harry T.↗
NASA NTRS1989

A two axis skin friction balance nulling circuit using an optimal observer

An investigation is conducted of application of optimal observer-based control laws derived using both pole-placement techniques and optimal linear regulator theory. Although a pole-placement-derived control law with optimal observer provides fast response and excellent noise rejection, its observer requires an electrical input proportional to the unknown skin friction force, which is unavailable. To overcome this limitation, an optimal linear regulator design is proposed which estimates the unknown force input and provides excellent noise rejection, at the expense, however, of significantly slower transient response.

Tripp, John S.↗
NASA NTRS1989

The Owens Valley solar array

Solar microwave emission contains essential information for the study of the coronal magnetic structure of active regions and of thermal and nonthermal flare electrons. To exploit this potential requires BOTH imaging and spectroscopy with sufficient resolution to resolve spatial and spectral features. The VLA provides excellent solar imaging (when in the C and D configurations) but inadequate spectral coverage. The existing Owens Valley system has excellent spectral coverage but imaging that is adequate only for very simple sources. The Owens Valley system is currently undergoing an expansion, which when completed in October 1990 will provide a SOLAR-DEDICATED 5 antenna array (10 baselines). By using frequency-synthesis, this will provide a significant imaging capability in addition to its current spectral coverage.

Hurford, G. J.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Identification of a cast iron alloy containing nonstrategic elements

A program was performed to address the mechanical and environmental needs of Stirling engine heater head and regenerator housing components, while reducing the dependence on strategic materials. An alloy was developed which contained no strategic elemental additions per se. The base is iron with additions of manganese, molybdenum, carbon, silicon, niobium, and ferro-chromium. Such an alloy should be producible on a large scale at very low cost. The resulting alloy, designated as NASAUT 4G-Al, contained 15 Mn, 15 Cr, 2 Mo, 1.5 C, 1.0 Si, 1.0 Nb (in weight percent) with a balance of Fe. This alloy was optimized for chemistry, based upon tensile strength, creep-rupture strength, fracture behavior, and fatigue resistance up to 800 C. Alloys were also tested for environmental compatibility. The microstructure and mechanic properties (including hardness) were assessed in the as-cast condition and following several heat treatments, including one designed to simulate a required braze cycle. The alloy was fabricated and characterized in the form of both equiaxed and columnar-grained castings. The columnar grains were produced by directional solidification, and the properties were characterized in both the longitudinal and transverse orientations. The NASAUT 4G-Al alloy was found to be good in cyclic-oxidation resistance and excellent in both hydrogen and hot-corrosion resistance, especially in comparison to the baseline XF-818 alloy. The mechanical properties of yield strength, stress-rupture life, high-cycle-fatigue resistance, and low-cycle-fatigue resistance were good to excellent in comparison to the current alloy for this application, HS-31 (X-40), with precise results depending in a complex manner on grain orientation and temperature. If required, the ductility could be improved by lowering the carbon content.

Cooper, C. V.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Usefulness of heart measures in flight simulation

The results of three studies performed at the NASA Langley Research Center are presented to indicate the areas in which heart measures are useful for detecting differences in the workload state of subjects. Tasks that involve the arousal of the sympathetic nervous system, such as landing approaches, were excellent candidates for the use of average heart-rate and/or the increase in heart-rate during a task. The latter of these two measures was the better parameter because it removed the effects of diurnal variations in heart-rate and some of the intersubject variability. Tasks which differ in the amount of mental resources required are excellent candidates for heart-rate variability measures. Heart-rate variability measures based upon power spectral density techniques were responsive to the changing task demands of landing approach tasks, approach guidance options, and 2 versus 20 second interstimulus-intervals of a monitoring task. Heart-rate variability measures were especially sensitive to time-on-task when the task was characterized by minimal novelty, complexity, and uncertainty (i.e., heart-rate variability increases as a function of the subjects boredom).

Harris, Randall L., Sr.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Flight motor set 360L001 (STS-26R). Volume 1: System overview, revision A

The NASA space shuttle flight STS-26R, launched at 11:37.00.009 am, EDT on 29 Sep. 1988, used the redesigned solid rocket motors (RSRM) 360L001A and 360L001B. Evaluation of the ground environment instrumentation (GEI) data recorded prior to flight showed no launch commit criteria violations; that the field joint heater and aft skirt thermal conditioning systems performed adequately; and that the GEI data showed good agreement with thermal model predictions. Evaluation of the developmental flight instrumentation (DFI) revealed excellent agreement with both the predicted and required ballistic specifications. All parameters were well within the GEI specification requirements including propellant burn rates, specific impulse values, and thrust imbalance. Recorded strain values also indicated satisfactory radial growth and stress levels, as well as verification of adequate safety factors. Postflight inspection of the insulation, seals, case, and nozzles showed overall excellent performance. Some thermal DFI protective cork was missing, and inoperative field joint vent valves on the thermal protection cork allowed water entry into the field joints upon splashdown. Evaluation of these anomalies, as well as complete evaluation of all Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor components, is contained.

Garecht, Diane M.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Numerical computation of viscous flow about unconventional airfoil shapes

A new two-dimensional computer code was developed to analyze the viscous flow around unconventional airfoils at various Mach numbers and angles of attack. The Navier-Stokes equations are solved using an implicit, upwind, finite-volume scheme. Both laminar and turbulent flows can be computed. A new nonequilibrium turbulence closure model was developed for computing turbulent flows. This two-layer eddy viscosity model was motivated by the success of the Johnson-King model in separated flow regions. The influence of history effects are described by an ordinary differential equation developed from the turbulent kinetic energy equation. The performance of the present code was evaluated by solving the flow around three airfoils using the Reynolds time-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. Excellent results were obtained for both attached and separated flows about the NACA 0012 airfoil, the RAE 2822 airfoil, and the Integrated Technology A 153W airfoil. Based on the comparison of the numerical solutions with the available experimental data, it is concluded that the present code in conjunction with the new nonequilibrium turbulence model gives excellent results.

Ahmed, S.↗