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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 271 records · Page 15
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1986

A technique for the optical analysis of deformed telescope mirrors

The NASTRAN-ACCOS V programs' interface merges structural and optical analysis capabilities in order to characterize the performance of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Solar Optical Telescope primary mirror, which has a large diameter/thickness ratio. The first step in the optical analysis is to use NASTRAN's FEM to model the primary mirror, simulating any distortions due to gravitation, thermal gradients, and coefficient of thermal expansion nonuniformities. NASTRAN outputs are then converted into an ACCOS V-acceptable form; ACCOS V generates the deformed optical surface on the basis of these inputs, and imaging qualities can be determined.

Bolton, John F.↗
NASA NTRS1992

High-performance packaging for monolithic microwave and millimeter-wave integrated circuits

Packaging schemes were developed that provide low-loss, hermetic enclosure for advanced monolithic microwave and millimeter-wave integrated circuits (MMICs). The package designs are based on a fused quartz substrate material that offers improved radio frequency (RF) performance through 44 gigahertz (GHz). The small size and weight of the packages make them appropriate for a variety of applications, including phased array antenna systems. Packages were designed in two forms; one for housing a single MMIC chip, the second in the form of a multi-chip phased array module. The single chip array module was developed in three separate sizes, for chips of different geometry and frequency requirements. The phased array module was developed to address packaging directly for antenna applications, and includes transmission line and interconnect structures to support multi-element operation. All packages are fabricated using fused quartz substrate materials. As part of the packaging effort, a test fixture was developed to interface the single chip packages to conventional laboratory instrumentation for characterization of the packaged devices. The package and test fixture designs were both developed in a generic sense, optimizing performance for a wide range of possible applications and devices.

Shalkhauser, K. A.↗
NASA NTRS1992

High-performance packaging for monolithic microwave and millimeter-wave integrated circuits

Packaging schemes are developed that provide low-loss, hermetic enclosure for enhanced monolithic microwave and millimeter-wave integrated circuits. These package schemes are based on a fused quartz substrate material offering improved RF performance through 44 GHz. The small size and weight of the packages make them useful for a number of applications, including phased array antenna systems. As part of the packaging effort, a test fixture was developed to interface the single chip packages to conventional laboratory instrumentation for characterization of the packaged devices.

Shalkhauser, K. A.↗
NASA NTRS1994

The CCSDS return all frames Space Link Extension service

Existing Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) Recommendations for Telemetry Channel Coding, Packet Telemetry, Advanced Orbiting Systems, and Telecommand have facilitated cross-support between Agencies by standardizing the link between spacecraft and ground terminal. CCSDS is currently defining a set of Space Link Extension (SLE) services that will enable remote science and mission operations facilities to access the ground termination of the Space Link services in a standard manner. The first SLE service to be defined is the Return All Frames (RAF) service. The RAF service delivers all CCSDS link-layer frames received on a single space link physical channel. The service provides both on-line and off-line data transfer modes to accommodate the variety of access methods typical of space mission operations. This paper describes the RAF service as of the Summer of 1994. It characterizes the behavior of the service as seen across the interface between the user and the service and gives an overview of the interactions involved in setting up and operating the service in a cross-support environment.

Uhrig, Hans↗
NASA NTRS1995

Microstructures of BN/SiC coatings on nicalon fibers

The microstructures of Nicalon silicon carbide (SiC) fibers and layered coatings of boron nitride (BN) followed by chemical vapor infiltrated silicon carbide (CVI-SiC) were characterized using optical and electron microscopy. Two different precursors and reactions were used to produce the BN layers while the deposition of CVI silicon carbide was nearly identical. Coated tows were examined in cross-section to characterize the chemistry and structures of the constituents and the interfaces. One BN precursor yielded three sublayers while the other gave a relatively homogeneous nanocrystalline layer.

Dickerson, R. M.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Manufacturing, Characterization and Terrestrial Passive Radiative Cooling Performance of Nanofibrous PTFR-PEO Composite Thermal Coatings

Passive heat management is desirable in many applications since it can reduce the energy expended for cooling, for example, in buildings and automobiles. Specifically, materials with wavelength-dependent reflectance and emittance can manage incident solar fluxes while enabling passive radiative cooling by thermal emission. This study demonstrates the use of polymeric nanofibers, specifically polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) composite, as thermal coatings for passive temperature control. Employing the electrospinning fabrication process, we engineer nano and micro-scale fibrous structures, studying the influence of fabrication parameters, such as precursor material concentration and rotating collector speed, on fiber geometry and optical properties. To understand the role of material and fiber geometry on optical performance, we characterize various samples' spectral reflectance, absorptance, and transmittance using spectrophotometers interfaced with integrating spheres. The results show the potential of nanofabricated PTFE-PEO coatings as promising candidates for passive thermal control. We highlight their competitive edge by comparing their solar reflectance and emittance values to existing passive radiative thermal control materials. In essence, this study contributes to advancing passive heat management technologies, offering insights into optimizing material composition and fabrication techniques for enhanced performance in various applications.

Chieloka Ibekwe↗
NASA NTRS2005

Simulator of Space Communication Networks

Multimission Advanced Communications Hybrid Environment for Test and Evaluation (MACHETE) is a suite of software tools that simulates the behaviors of communication networks to be used in space exploration, and predict the performance of established and emerging space communication protocols and services. MACHETE consists of four general software systems: (1) a system for kinematic modeling of planetary and spacecraft motions; (2) a system for characterizing the engineering impact on the bandwidth and reliability of deep-space and in-situ communication links; (3) a system for generating traffic loads and modeling of protocol behaviors and state machines; and (4) a system of user-interface for performance metric visualizations. The kinematic-modeling system makes it possible to characterize space link connectivity effects, including occultations and signal losses arising from dynamic slant-range changes and antenna radiation patterns. The link-engineering system also accounts for antenna radiation patterns and other phenomena, including modulations, data rates, coding, noise, and multipath fading. The protocol system utilizes information from the kinematic-modeling and link-engineering systems to simulate operational scenarios of space missions and evaluate overall network performance. In addition, a Communications Effect Server (CES) interface for MACHETE has been developed to facilitate hybrid simulation of space communication networks with actual flight/ground software/hardware embedded in the overall system.

Clare, Loren↗
NASA NTRS2013

JWST Integrated Science Instrument Module Alignment Optimization Tool

During cryogenic vacuum testing of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM), the global alignment of the ISIM with respect to the designed interface of the JWST optical telescope element (OTE) will be measured through a series of optical characterization tests. These tests will determine the locations and orientations of the JWST science instrument projected focal surfaces and entrance pupils with respect to their corresponding OTE optical interfaces. If any optical performance non-compliances are identified, the ISIM will be adjusted to improve its performance. In order to understand how to manipulate the ISIM's degrees of freedom properly and to prepare for the ISIM flight model testing, a series of optical-mechanical analyses have been completed to develop and identify the best approaches for bringing a non-compliant ISIM element into compliance. In order for JWST to meet its observatory-level optical requirements and ambitious science goals, the ISIM element has to meet approximately 150 separate optical requirements. Successfully achieving many of those optical requirements depends on the proper alignment of the ISIM element with respect to the OTE. To verify that the ISIM element will meet its optical requirements, a series of cryogenic vacuum tests will be conducted with an OTE Simulator (OSIM). An optical Ray Trace and Geometry Model tool was developed to help solve the multi-dimensional alignment problem. The tool allows the user to determine how best to adjust the alignment of the JWST ISIM with respect to the ideal telescope interfaces so that the approximately 150 ISIM optical performance requirements can be satisfied. This capability has not existed previously.

Bos, Brent↗
DOE OSTI2024

Thermal relaxation of strain and twist in ferroelectric hexagonal boron nitride moiré interfaces

New properties can arise at van der Waals (vdW) interfaces hosting a moiré pattern generated by interlayer twist and strain. However, achieving precise control of interlayer twist/strain remains an ongoing challenge in vdW heterostructure assembly, and even subtle variation in these structural parameters can create significant changes in the moiré period and emergent properties. Characterizing the rate of interlayer twist/strain relaxation during thermal annealing is critical to establish a thermal budget for vdW heterostructure construction and may provide a route to improve the homogeneity of the interface or to control its final state. Here, we characterize the spatial and temporal dependence of interfacial twist and strain relaxation in marginally-twisted hBN/hBN interfaces heated under conditions relevant to vdW heterostructure assembly and typical sample annealing. We find that the ferroelectric hBN/hBN moiré at very small twist angles (θ ≤ 0.1°) relaxes minimally during annealing in air at typical assembly temperatures of 170°C. However, at 400°C, twist angle relaxes significantly, accompanied by a decrease in spatial uniformity. Uniaxial heterostrain initially increases and then decreases over time, becoming increasingly non-uniform in direction. Structural irregularities such as step edges, contamination bubbles, or contact with the underlying substrate result in local inhomogeneity in the rate of relaxation.

2D materials↗
NASA NTRS1993

Magneto-optic superlattice thin films: Fabrication, structural and magnetic characterization

During this quarter studies were extended to determine the electronic contribution to the perpendicular interface anisotropy in Co-based multilayers. Using in situ Kerr effect measurements, the influences of different transition metals (TM = Ag, Au, Cu, and Pd) on the magnetic properties of single-crystal Co films grown on Pd (111) and Au (111) surfaces are investigated. Last quarter the discovery of a large peak in the perpendicular anisotropy when approximately one monolayer of Cu or Ag is deposited on the Co surface was reported. We now have added a computer-controlled stepper-motor drive to our MBE sample transfer mechanism. The motor allows us to move the sample at a constant velocity from behind a shutter during deposition. The film, therefore, is deposited as a wedge with a linear variation of thickness across the substrate. In this way, a continuous range of coverage on a single sample is studied. The stepper motor also provides the necessary control for precisely positioning the sample in the laser beam for Kerr effect measurements at the different coverages.

Falco, C. M.↗
DOE OSTI2024

A Framework to Demonstrate a DNP3 Interface With a CIM-Based Data Integration Platform: Preprint

The contemporary electrical grid is characterized by its complexity and abundance of data. A control-rich environment supported by information and communication technologies within an Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) presents a viable and cost-effective option for utility companies aiming to implement advanced real-time analytical schemes for monitoring and remotely controlling distribution feeders. Modular platform-based approaches to distribution operations require a structured framework for acquiring field device measurements, performing analytics, converting the setpoint to the correct protocol, and sending it on the appropriate communications network to the field devices. We present the development and deployment of an application service to integrate an open-source standardsbased platform with an ADMS test bed with field devices using the Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3) for data exchange. The step-by-step procedure for establishing the DNP3-Master service on an open-source distribution platform is outlined, comprehensively explaining the Master setup process. Moreover, sample use case results highlight the capabilities of the DNP3- Master service setup. Results demonstrate the scalability and configurability of the DNP3-Master service, making it adaptable for integration with other relevant applications, thus providing potential opportunities for real-world field trials and real-time assessments.

ADMS↗
DOE OSTI2026

CdTe Core: Final Technical Report (FTR)

CdTe is presently the cost-leading thin-film PV technology, directly competing with Si at scale, even when domestically manufactured. While an impressive technology, its efficiency remains much below the detailed balance limit with the largest cause due to its low photovoltage and fill factor. To realize gains, the carrier concentration, minority carrier lifetime, and interface recombination all need to be improved simultaneously over historic levels. Using a new defect chemistry (group V doping instead of copper) has been identified as a viable route using single crystal systems. This project focused on implementing this new defect chemistry in scalable, polycrystalline thin-film photovoltaic CdTe devices with tasks focusing improvements to the front interface, absorber, and rear interface as well as capability development & stakeholder engagement. The goal of the project was to establish a strategy using devices, test structures, detailed characterization, and modeling to quantify the sources of losses in state-of-the-art CdTe photovoltaic devices. Using this strategy and advanced synthesis, losses at the front interface, absorber, and rear interface were worked on in parallel. The final objective was to significantly improve the voltage deficit in CdTe devices to enable improvements in photovoltage and efficiency that can be implemented by industry in the near-term. Over the course of the project, the team developed new characterization techniques, analysis, and modeling which were then applied to state-of-the-art materials generated internally and collaboratively. In particular to enable rapid progress, NREL worked closely with First Solar where NREL grew complete devices as well as ones that interleaved process steps where First Solar had completed different steps such as absorber growth or absorber growth and activation using their baseline methods. Using detailed characterization and analysis including photoemission, photoluminescence, and scanning probe techniques enabled understanding of the loss pathways and area for improvements in our own and First Solar s materials. Ultimately, this contributed to the first series of new world record CdTe efficiencies since 2016, culminating in a 23.1% certified cell that was P-doped along with As-doped cells of similar performance. Internally, NREL improved the statistical variation in baseline As-doped devices and improved average photovoltage by over 100 mV. This was done through an improvement in absorber quality, changed front interface, and improved back contact. In addition to materially improving the fabrication processes at NREL, characterization, analysis, and modeling were developed and disseminated. NREL also played a pivotal role in community building over the course of this project working closely with the Cadmium Telluride Accelerator Consortium. NREL worked in a series of collaborations with academic and industry partners, leveraging knowledge and innovations from this project, as well as helped organize a series of workshops to ensure rapid progress in the field. Working closely with the academic community has led to a dissemination of knowledge; working with First Solar as increased US competitiveness First Solar expanded domestic production to ~10 GW and opened new facilities.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
NASA NTRS1980

Simulation of transducer-couplant effects on broadband ultrasonic signals

The increasing use of broadband, pulse-echo ultrasonics in nondestructive evaluation of flaws and material properties has generated a need for improved understanding of the way signals are modified by coupled and bonded thin-layer interfaces associated with transducers. This understanding is most important when using frequency spectrum analyses for characterizing material properties. In this type of application, signals emanating from material specimens can be strongly influenced by couplant and bond-layers in the acoustic path. Computer synthesized waveforms were used to simulate a range of interface conditions encountered in ultrasonic transducer systems operating in the 20 to 80 MHz regime. The adverse effects of thin-layer multiple reflections associated with various acoustic impedance conditions are demonstrated. The information presented is relevant to ultrasonic transducer design, specimen preparation, and couplant selection.

Vary, A.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Simulation of transducer-couplant effects on broadband ultrasonic signals

The increasing use of broadband, pulse-echo ultrasonics in nondestructive evaluation of flaws and material properties has generated a need for improved understanding of the way signals are modified by coupled and bonded thin-layer interfaces associated with transducers. This understanding is most important when using frequency spectrum analyses for characterizing material properties. In this type of application, signals emanating from material specimens can be strongly influenced by couplant and bond-layers in the acoustic path. Computer synthesized waveforms were used to simulate a range of interface conditions encountered in ultrasonic transducer systems operating in the 20to 80-MHz regime. The adverse effects of thin-layer multiple reflections associated with various acoustic impedance conditions are demonstrated. The information presented is relevant to ultrasonic transducer design, specimen preparation, and couplant selection.

Vary, A.↗
DOE OSTI2026

The scientific case for concurrent neutron and X-ray scattering and spectroscopy

The interrogation of materials with X-rays or neutrons to determine structure, energetics, and dynamics is fundamental to advancing physical and chemical materials science and enabling innovative material technologies. A persistent challenge in materials development is that progress depends on understanding structure and dynamics across multiple length and time scales in increasingly complex, multicomponent systems featuring interfaces, heterogeneity, and hierarchical organization. Despite rapidly growing demands on materials characterization, current experimental approaches are almost exclusively based on isolated X-ray or neutron scattering and spectroscopy, reflecting a paradigm largely unchanged for decades. To assess the scientific need for a new experimental paradigm, a 3-day workshop sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) was held at the SpringHill Suites, San Jose, California, from June 2 to 4, 2022. The workshop brought together 70 national and international experts who critically evaluated opportunities enabled by concurrent neutron and X-ray (NeX) scattering, spectroscopy, and imaging experiments. The participants reached a clear consensus that establishing NeX capabilities is crucial for advancing the science of complex materials in the United States. This report illustrates the scientific drivers for NeX experiments through representative examples spanning biomaterials, energy materials, soft matter, nanomaterials, quantum materials, geoscience, and applied materials research. The complementarity of neutrons and X-rays is essential for robust model development and refinement, particularly in multiphase and multicomponent systems. While joint refinement of data from separate experiments is valuable, concurrent measurements uniquely eliminate uncertainties arising from sample evolution, environmental drift, and irreproducibility associated with experiments performed at different locations and times. Realizing NeX capabilities will require the development of new instrumentation, data analysis frameworks, and robust sample environments compatible with both neutron and X-ray probes. Addressing these challenges will enable unambiguous interpretation of complex materials behavior and open new frontiers in materials research.

X-ray↗
DOE OSTI2024

The Scientific Case for Concurrent Neutron and X-ray Scattering and Spectroscopy

The interrogation of materials with X-rays or neutrons to determine the structure, energetics, and dynamics of materials is fundamental to advancing materials' physical and chemical science and developing innovative material technologies. A transcending challenge in developing novel materials is that progress hinges on understanding the structure and dynamics across multiple time and length scales in complex materials that feature multiple components, interfaces, and compositions. Despite the ever-growing demands on materials’ characterization, existing approaches are almost exclusively based on isolated X-ray or neutron scattering, i.e., an approach commensurate with the more narrowly defined needs of fifty years ago. A three-day workshop sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) analyzed the demand for concurrent neutron and X-ray (NeX) experiments. It was held at the Spring Hill Suites, San Jose, California, from June 2 to 4, 2022. In this workshop, 70 national and international experts ascertained the crucial need to establish NeX capabilities to advance the science of complex materials and systems in the US. Here, we illustrate the need for NeX scattering and spectroscopy experiments by showcasing examples that span areas as diverse as biomaterials, energy science, soft matter, and nanomaterials. To provide NeX capability will require new instrumentation that enables concurrent experiments. Affected areas include chemistry, soft matter, quantum materials, pure and applied chemistry, bioscience, geoscience, and applied materials. NeX benefits research outcomes due to the complementarity of the two techniques, which is essential for better model refinement. While joint refinement of data from separate neutron and X-ray experiments is critical to avoid ambiguities, especially in multiphase-multicomponent materials, concurrent experiments overcome scientific and technical barriers associated with single measurements, separated by location and, thus, time. Among all the examples, these factors introduce uncertainties in the results that complicate data analysis. [1,2] [3] While models are strongly sample-dependent, the principles of joint refinement are generally applicable to these disciplines, including the development of advanced parameterization, modeling, and analysis techniques that also consider the temporal and spatial resolutions of the two methods, leading to unambiguous data interpretation. Solutions for technical barriers must be found to realize NeX experiments, including developing robust sample environments that meet the optical requirements of neutrons and X-rays.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1984

Future interactive data systems

The information and control requirements of the investigator-users of future free-flying, platform-based, or Space Station-based scientific experiments are assessed, and the implications of these requirements for the design of the information systems are discussed. The principal requirements include near-real-time interaction with the payload, distributed or remote payload command and control, rapid access to quick-look data, flexibility of payload command sequences, on-demand uplink-downlink availability, system transparency, and modular design to facilitate replacement of system components. Current developments in systems architecture such as increased use of onboard microprocessors to select and preprocess data and transmit autonomous streams directly to the user, standardization of interfaces, and the NASA Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System are characterized, and block diagrams of present and future systems are provided.

Bracken, P. A.↗
NASA NTRS1989

A proposed non-intrusive method for finding coefficients of slip and molecular reflectivity in microgravity

A proposed experimental program to look at a series of vapor transport properties measured along solid and liquid surfaces is described. The research objectives proposed are: (1) with accuracy otherwise unobtainable on ground, to determine the coefficient of slip measured between gases and the surfaces of liquids and solids; (2) for the first time, to classify and tabulate dominant surface effects found for a variety of solids, particularly those crystalized by vapor transport; and (3) to extend understanding of settling rates predicted for cosmic dust and condensed vapor falling through planetary atmospheres. The method used to obtain these objectives, has aided, to an order of magnitude, understanding of various liquid-gas interfaces such as oil and water. But to date, no similar characterization has proved successful for solids or liquids of uncertain densities. Likewise, no data exist in either ground-based research or as part of a microgravity program that, when collected with the high accuracy expected in low gravity, could definitely settle outstanding questions in kinetic theory, molecular dynamics, and cosmic physics.

Noever, D. A.↗