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At least 289 records · Page 16
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1992

Ground Truth Studies - A hands-on environmental science program for students, grades K-12

The paper discusses the background and the objectives of the Ground Truth Studies (GTSs), an activity-based teaching program which integrates local environmental studies with global change topics, utilizing remotely sensed earth imagery. Special attention is given to the five key concepts around which the GTS programs are organized, the pilot program, the initial pilot study evaluation, and the GTS Handbook. The GTS Handbook contains a primer on global change and remote sensing, aerial and satellite images, student activities, glossary, and an appendix of reference material. Also described is a K-12 teacher training model. International participation in the program is to be initiated during the 1992-1993 school year.

Katzenberger, John↗
NASA NTRS1993

Fabrication and properties of functionally graded NiAl/Al2O3 composites

A modified sedimentation process was used in the production of a functionally gradient material (FGM), NiAl/Al2O3. A simple finite element model was used to guide our design and fabrication efforts by estimating residual stress states as a function of composite structure. This approach could lead to tailored designs that enhance or avoid specific residual stress states. Thermal cycling tests were factored into the model to predict time dependent or steady-state internal temperature and stress profiles. Four-point bend tests were conducted to establish the mechanical load-displacement behavior of a single interlayer FGM at room temperature, 800 and 1000 K. Room temperature bend strength of the FGM was 3-4 times that of the base NiAl. At elevated temperatures, composite fracture occurred in a gradual, noncatastrophic mode involving NiAl retardation of a succession of cracks originating in the alumina face.

Miller, D. P.↗
NASA NTRS1936

The stress criterion of a tension member with graded flexural stiffness : contribution to the problem of "clamping effect" outside of the elastic range

The approximate size of the stress criterion of a bar on two supports stressed beyond the elastic range is assessed by an approximation. The calculation proceeds from the premise of "substitute flexural stiffness" so defined that the part stressed beyond the elastic range may be considered as following Hooke's law when determining the flexural deformation quantities. For the determination of the substitute flexural stiffness, it is presumed that the material is already stressed so much beyond the yield point as to be strain-hardened. The data are directly applicable to materials having no definite yield point. For the rest, von Karman's method for compressed and subsequently deflected bars serves as basis for the calculation.

Kaul, Hans W↗
NASA NTRS1994

Response to graded Lower Body Negative Pressure (LBNP) after space flight

The effects of space flight on orthostatic function were studied. LBNP tests (0 to -60 mmHg) were administered to 7 crew members preflight and 2 to 6 hrs after 6 to 9 day shuttle missions. Cardiac stroke volumes were obtained each minute by echo Doppler. Orthostatic responses are given. The data suggest a decline in postflight orthostatic function, as assessed by LBNP, due to reduced cardiac filling despite potentiated heart rate and vasoconstrictor reflex responses in most crew members.

Fortney, S.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Long duration biaxial cylinder testing of balloon grade polyethylene films with emphasis on automated data acquisition and control

Characterization of a 2-dimensional material constitutive model in the practical biaxial state for engineering utility of balloon envelope structural analysis is achievable with laboratory cylinder tests. Hoop (circumferential, and longitudinal strains are time-wise measured on axially loaded pressurized cylinders. Pre-programmed ramped loading changes as well as precise long term pressure control are achieved through cascaded proportional, integral derivative (PID) flow control loops that are part of an integrated data acquisition and process control system. Real time data reduction and analysis allow monitoring of unattended tests that have durations of up to a month. Measured and controlled parameters and variables are discussed; date analysis techniques are reviewed.

Martone, Michael↗
NASA NTRS1996

Nucleation Pathways For Freezing Of Two Grades Of Zirconium

Report discusses classical nucleation theory of freezing and describes experimental study of nucleation mechanisms that predominate during freezing of spherical specimens of initially molten zirconium levitated electrostatically in vacuum.

Rhim, Won-Kyu↗
NASA NTRS1999

Analysis of an Interface Crack for a Functionally Graded Strip Sandwiched between Two Homogeneous Layers of Finite Thickness

The interface crack problem for a composite layer that consists of a homogeneous substrate, coating and a non-homogeneous interface was formulated for singular integral equations with Cauchy kernels and integrated using the Lobatto-Chebyshev collocation technique. Mixed-mode Stress Intensity Factors and Strain Energy Release Rates were calculated. The Stress Intensity Factors were compared for accuracy with relevant results previously published. The parametric studies were conducted for the various thickness of each layer and for various non-homogeneity ratios. Particular application to the Zirconia thermal barrier on steel substrate is demonstrated.

Shbeeh, N. I.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Analysis of Multiple Cracks in an Infinite Functionally Graded Plate

A general methodology was constructed to develop the fundamental solution for a crack embedded in an infinite non-homogeneous material in which the shear modulus varies exponentially with the y coordinate. The fundamental solution was used to generate a solution to fully interactive multiple crack problems for stress intensity factors and strain energy release rates. Parametric studies were conducted for two crack configurations. The model displayed sensitivity to crack distance, relative angular orientation, and to the coefficient of nonhomogeneity.

Shbeeb, N. I.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Nondestructive Evaluation of the Friction Weld Process on 2195/2219 Grade Aluminum

In 1996, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center began an ambitious program designed to find alternative methods of repairing conventional TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welds and VPPA (Variable Polarity Plasma Arc) welds on the Space Shuttle External Tank without producing additional heat-related anomalies or conditions. Therefore, a relatively new method, invented by The Welding Institute (TWI) in Cambridge, England, called Friction Stir Welding (FSW), was investigated for use in this application, as well as being used potentially as an initial weld process. As with the conventional repair welding processes, nondestructive evaluation (NDE) plays a crucial role in the verification of these repairs. Since it was feared that conventional NDE might have trouble with this type of weld structure (due to shape of nugget, grain structure, etc.) it was imperative that a complete study be performed to address the adequacy of the NDE process. This paper summarizes that process.

Suits, Michael W.↗
NASA NTRS1999

A Photometric Technique for Determining Fluid Concentration using Consumer-Grade Hardware

In support of a separate study to produce an exponential concentration gradient in a magnetic fluid, a noninvasive technique for determining, species concentration from off-the-shelf hardware has been developed. The approach uses a backlighted fluid test cell photographed with a commercial digital camcorder. Because the light extinction coefficient is wavelength dependent, tests were conducted to determine the best filter color to use, although some guidance was also provided using an absorption spectrophotometer. With the appropriate filter in place, the provide attenuation of the light passing, through the test cell was captured by the camcorder. The digital image was analyzed for intensity using, software from Scion Image Corp. downloaded from the Internet. The analysis provides a two-dimensional array of concentration with an average error of 0.0095 ml/ml. This technique is superior to invasive techniques, which require extraction of a sample that disturbs the concentration distribution in the test cell. Refinements of this technique using a true monochromatic laser light Source are also discussed.

Leslie, F.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Effects of Three-Day Bed Rest on Physiological Responses to Graded Exercise in Endurance Athletes, Body Builders and Sedentary Men

To test the hypotheses that short-term bed rest (BR) deconditioning influences metabolic, cardiorespiratory and neurohormonal responses to exercise and that these effects depend on the subjects' training status 12 sedentary men, and 10 endurance- and 10 strength-trained athletes were submitted to three-day BR. Before and after BR they performed incremental exercise test until volitional exhaustion. Respiratory gas exchange and HR were recorded continuously and stroke volume (SV) was measured at submaximal loads. Blood was taken for lactate [LA], adrenaline [A], noradrenaline, [NA], renting activity (PRA), growth hormone [hGH], testosterone and cortisol determination. Reduction of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) after BR was greater in the endurance athletes (than in the remaining groups (17 % vs. 100%). Decrements in VO2peak correlated positively with the initial values (r = 0.73, p less than 0.001). Resting and exercise respiratory exchange ratios were increased in athletes. Cardiac output was unchanged by BR in all groups, but exercise HR was increased and SV diminished in the sedentary subjects. The submaximal [LA] and [LA] thresholds were decreased the in endurance athletes from 71 to 60 %VO2 peak (p less than 0.001); they also had an earlier increase in [NA], and an attenuated increase in [hGH), and accentuated PRA and cortisol elevations during exercise. These effects were insignificant in the remaining subjects. In conclusion: reduction of exercise performance and modifications in neurohormonal response to exercise after BR depend on the previous level and mode of physical training, being the most pronounced in the endurance athletes.

Smorawinski, J.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Effects of Three-Day Bed Rest on Physiological Responses to Graded Exercise in Endurance Athletes, Body Builders and Sedentary Men

To test the hypotheses that short-term bed rest (BR) deconditioning influences metabolic, cardiorespiratory and neurohormonal responses to exercise and that these effects depend on the subjects' training status, 12 sedentary men, and 10 endurance- and 10 strength-trained athletes were submitted to three-day BR. Before and after BR they performed incremental exercise tests until volitional exhaustion. Respiratory gas exchange and HR were recorded continuously and stroke volume (SV) was measured at submaximal loads. Blood was taken for lactate [LA], adrenaline [A], noradrenaline [NA], renin activity (PRA), growth hormone [hGH], testosterone and cortisol determination. Reduction of peak oxygen uptake (V02peak) after BR was greater in the endurance athletes than in the remaining groups (17 % vs. 10%). Decrements in VO2peak correlated positively with the initial values (r = 0.73, p is less than 0.001). Resting and exercise respiratory exchange ratios were increased in athletes. Cardiac output was unchanged by BR in all groups, but exercise HR was increased and SV diminished in the sedentary subjects. The submaximal [LA] and [LA] thresholds were decreased the in endurance athletes from 71 to 60% V02 peak (p is less than0.001), they also had an earlier increase in [NA], an attenuated increase in [hGH], and accentuated PRA and cortisol elevations during exercise. These effects were insignificant in the remaining subjects. In conclusion: reduction of exercise performance and modifications in neurohormonal response to exercise after BR depend on the previous level and mode of physical training, being the most pronounced in the endurance athletes.

Smorawinski, J.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Compositionally-Graded Shape Memory Film for Self-Deployment of Membrane Reflectors and Optics

The next generation of space systems will require large apertures in order to image faint targets or cover large areas of Earth. These large apertures must be able to fit inside a launch vehicle fairing, be light enough for launch into orbit, and deploy on orbit with repeatability and reliability. The current state-of-the-art in flight optics is represented by the 4 meter LAMP telescope, with an areal density of 10 km sq m. Development of a Beryllium mirror demonstration article for NGST (Next Generation Space Telescope) at the University of Arizona indicate areal densities of 0.5 kg sq m with flight hardware in the 12 meter range. With progressive improvements in existing deployment, packaging, and structural technologies, the size of optics and reflectors will continue to increase, while mass is reduced. However, without a breakthrough in materials, packaging and/or deployment technologies, the goal for Gossamer structures of 0.1 kg sq m is unachievable for the near and mid-term NASA missions. Membrane technology provides the best hope of achieving such low areal densities. In combination with advances in membrane materials and structures, development of revolutionary techniques for deployment systems can provide significant improvements in large aperture technology. In this paper, the results of a six-month Phase I research effort to demonstrate the application of thin film NiTi to aerospace-qualified membrane and mesh materials are presented. Deposition of shape memory thin film was achieved Astromesh (trademark) metal mesh and CP-1, and optical-quality polymer membrane. Not only was full-coating deposition demonstrated, but also small segment deposition which holds potential for local surface control. Deployment of these materials was also demonstrated, setting the stage for the development of a larger test article.

Hill, Lisa↗
NASA NTRS2002

Reproducibility and Repeatability of Tensile and Low-Cycle Fatigue Properties in Propulsion Grade Hydrogen

Hydrogen has the potential of increased use in the future as an environmentally friendly fuel. It has, however, shown a tendency to embrittle some materials. To be used in a safe manner and to exploit its full potential, it will be necessary to develop a database of material properties in hydrogen environment. The tests needed to produce this data are costly to perform (tensile test cost 25 times more and low cycle fatigue test are 55 times as expensive). Moreover, there is presently a lack of universal test methods to ensure standardized data within the hydrogen community. Each of the industries that work with hydrogen (aerospace, petroleum, fuel cells, etc.) performs tests by their own laboratory-developed methods, thus rendering cross- comparisons of material property data highly questionable. It is extremely important that data generated in a hydrogen environment be done to a standard that reduces variance to a minimum and allows direct comparison of test results from different laboratories. Doing so will assure that all data generated can be used to further our understanding of the hydrogen effects and to make sure components/products designed for hydrogen are the safest and most reliable possible. This paper reviews the results of two 'round-robin' programs conducted by NASA-MSFC. These two programs examined the reproducibility and repeatability of tensile and low-cycle fatigue test results in high-pressure hydrogen environments. The studies indicated that even with the tightest controls available from current commercial standards, the reproducibility (between different laboratories) and repeatability (within a laboratory) results of the tensile tests exhibited five times the variance as in standard ambient air tests. The variance with the LCF tests were on the same order as with air tests, but that was due to the large variation present in the last Interlaboratory air program. The paper concludes with a recommendation for a program that would allow the development of improved test methods, leading to lower variance in the generation of mechanical property data in the future.

Vesely, E. J.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Optimal Experiment Design for Thermal Characterization of Functionally Graded Materials

The purpose of the project was to investigate methods to accurately verify that designed , materials meet thermal specifications. The project involved heat transfer calculations and optimization studies, and no laboratory experiments were performed. One part of the research involved study of materials in which conduction heat transfer predominates. Results include techniques to choose among several experimental designs, and protocols for determining the optimum experimental conditions for determination of thermal properties. Metal foam materials were also studied in which both conduction and radiation heat transfer are present. Results of this work include procedures to optimize the design of experiments to accurately measure both conductive and radiative thermal properties. Detailed results in the form of three journal papers have been appended to this report.

Cole, Kevin D.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Dual-task interference with equal task emphasis: graded capacity sharing or central postponement?

Most studies using the psychological refractory period (PRP) design suggest that dual-task performance is limited by a central bottleneck. Because subjects are usually told to emphasize Task 1, however, the bottleneck might reflect a strategic choice rather than a structural limitation. To evaluate the possibility that central operations can proceed in parallel, albeit with capacity limitations, we conducted two dual-task experiments with equal task emphasis. In both experiments, subjects tended to either group responses together or respond to one task well before the other. In addition, stimulus-response compatibility effects were roughly constant across stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs). At the short SOA, compatibility effects also carried over onto response times for the other task. This pattern of results is difficult to reconcile with the possibility that subjects share capacity roughly equally between simultaneous central operations. However, this pattern is consistent with the existence of a structural central bottleneck.

Auditory Perception↗
NASA NTRS2002

Effects of graded LBNP on MSNA and interstitial norepinephrine

Exposure to lower body negative pressure (LBNP) leads to an increased activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and an increase in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA). In this study, we examined the relationship between MSNA and interstitial norepinephrine (NE(i)) concentrations during LBNP. Twelve healthy volunteers were studied (26 +/- 6 yr). Simultaneous MSNA and microdialysis data were collected in six of these subjects. Measurements of MSNA (microneurography) and NE(i) (microdialysis, vastus lateralis) were performed at rest and then during an incremental LBNP paradigm (-10, -30, and -50 mmHg). MSNA rose as a function of LBNP (P < 0.001, n = 12). The plasma norepinephrine (NE(p)) concentration was 0.9 +/- 0.1 nmol/l at rest (n = 12). NE(i) measured in six subjects rose from 5.2 +/- 0.8 nmol/l at rest to 17.0 +/- 1.7 nmol/l at -50 mmHg (P < 0.001). Of note, the rise in NE(p) with LBNP was considerably less compared with the changes in NE(i) (Delta21 +/- 6% vs. Delta197 +/- 52%, n = 6, P < 0.015). MSNA and NE(i) showed a significant linear relationship (r = 0.721, P < 0.004). Activation of the SNS increased MSNA and NE(i) levels. The magnitude of the NE(i) increase was far greater than that seen for NE(p) suggesting that NE movement into the circulation decreases with baroreceptor unloading.

NASA Discipline Cardiopulmonary↗
NASA NTRS2001

Effects of 3-day bed rest on physiological responses to graded exercise in athletes and sedentary men

To test the hypotheses that short-term bed-rest (BR) deconditioning influences metabolic, cardiorespiratory, and neurohormonal responses to exercise and that these effects depend on the subjects' training status, 12 sedentary men and 10 endurance- and 10 strength-trained athletes were submitted to 3-day BR. Before and after BR they performed incremental exercise test until volitional exhaustion. Respiratory gas exchange and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously, and stroke volume (SV) was measured at submaximal loads. Blood was taken for lactate concentration ([LA]), epinephrine concentration ([Epi]), norepinephrine concentration ([NE]), plasma renin activity (PRA), human growth hormone concentration ([hGH]), testosterone, and cortisol determination. Reduction of peak oxygen uptake (VO(2 peak)) after BR was greater in the endurance athletes than in the remaining groups (17 vs. 10%). Decrements in VO(2 peak) correlated positively with the initial values (r = 0.73, P < 0.001). Resting and exercise respiratory exchange ratios were increased in athletes. Cardiac output was unchanged by BR in all groups, but exercise HR was increased and SV diminished in the sedentary subjects. The submaximal [LA] and [LA] thresholds were decreased in the endurance athletes from 71 to 60% VO(2 peak) (P < 0.001); they also had an earlier increase in [NE], an attenuated increase in [hGH], and accentuated PRA and cortisol elevations during exercise. These effects were insignificant in the remaining subjects. In conclusion, reduction of exercise performance and modifications in neurohormonal response to exercise after BR depend on the previous level and mode of physical training, being the most pronounced in the endurance athletes.

NASA Center ARC↗