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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 289 records · Page 16

eLog Analysis for Accelerators: Status and Future Outlook

This work demonstrates electronic logbook (eLog) systems leveraging modern AI-driven information retrieval capabilities at the accelerator facilities of Fermilab, Jefferson Lab, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. We evaluate contemporary tools and methodologies for information retrieval with Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAGs), focusing on operational insights and integration with existing accelerator control systems. The study addresses challenges and proposes solutions for state-of-the-art eLog analysis through practical implementations, demonstrating applications and limitations. We present a framework for enhancing accelerator facility operations through improved information accessibility and knowledge management, which could potentially lead to more efficient operations.

Hellert, Thorsten [LBNL, ALS]↗

Final Report: Process Intensification of Hydrogen Production through Sorption-Enhanced Gasification of Biomass

The University of Utah, in partnership with Idaho National Laboratory (INL), evaluated Sorption-Enhanced Gasification (SEG) as a transformative pathway for producing hydrogen with the potential for negative CO 2 emissions. SEG integrates gasification, water-gas shift, and in-situ carbon capture within a dual fluidized bed reactor to enable efficient clean hydrogen production. Key challenges related to biomass variability and process complexity were addressed through feedstock engineering, reaction optimization, and process validation. A co-pelletized biomass–limestone feedstock was developed to simplify feeding and introduction of makeup limestone. Kinetic and sorbent studies identified optimal operating conditions and confirmed the suitability of low-cost limestone, while catalysts were developed to reduce tar formation. Reactor modeling and techno-economic analysis indicated that SEG can achieve competitive hydrogen production costs, particularly when combined with carbon incentives, supporting its potential for scale-up and carbon-negative operation.

08 HYDROGEN↗

PDV Methods and Analysis for Surveillance of Explosive Components

The Weapons Evaluation Test Laboratory (WETL) at Sandia is collaborating with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to enhance explosive surveillance testing by integrating Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) data. This project has streamlined the testing environment, reducing hardware costs and training needs while improving data collection efficiency and usability for lab technicians.

Kress, Matthew Kip [Sandia National Laboratories (↗

Consequence-Driven Cybersecurity for High-Power Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Cybersecurity of high-power charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) is critical to the safety, reliability, and consumer confidence in this publicly accessible technology. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities in high-power EV charging infrastructure may also present risks to broader transportation and energy-infrastructure systems. Here, this paper details a methodology used to analyze and prioritize high-consequence events that could result from cybersecurity sabotage to high-power charging infrastructure. The highest prioritized events are evaluated under laboratory conditions for the severity of impact and the complexity of cybersecurity manipulation. Mitigation solutions and strategies are presented to secure the vulnerabilities that potentially lead to high-consequence events. These mitigations can be immediately implemented by industry or executed during the design stage.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗

eLog analysis for accelerators: status and future outlook

This work demonstrates electronic logbook (eLog) systems leveraging modern AI-driven information retrieval capabilities at the accelerator facilities of Fermilab, Jefferson Lab, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. We evaluate contemporary tools and methodologies for information retrieval with Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAGs), focusing on operational insights and integration with existing accelerator control systems. The study addresses challenges and proposes solutions for state-of-the-art eLog analysis through practical implementations, demonstrating applications and limitations. We present a framework for enhancing accelerator facility operations through improved information accessibility and knowledge management, which could potentially lead to more efficient operations.

Sulc, A. [LBL, Berkeley]↗

Development of an experiment for visible radiation measurements from a satellite

The inversion problem, I.E., determining the atmospheric turbidity from polarimetry of radiation emerging from the earth's atmosphere, is presented. A major theoretical advance was made by finding a successful approximation for the forward peak scattering of aerosols together with a simplified characterization of particle size distributions. An engineering model of a multibarreled photopolarimeter suitable for operation from a satellite was evaluated in laboratory and high altitude jet aircraft tests. Comparison of the data from flights over the Mexican desert with theoretical curves for a Rayleigh atmosphere with negligible turbidity is in agreement.

Sekera, Z.↗

A procedure for automated land use mapping using remotely sensed multispectral scanner data

A system of processing remotely sensed multispectral scanner data by computer programs to produce color-coded land use maps for large areas is described. The procedure is explained, the software and the hardware are described, and an analogous example of the procedure is presented. Detailed descriptions of the multispectral scanners currently in use are provided together with a summary of the background of current land use mapping techniques. The data analysis system used in the procedure and the pattern recognition software used are functionally described. Current efforts by the NASA Earth Resources Laboratory to evaluate operationally a less complex and less costly system are discussed in a separate section.

Whitley, S. L.↗

A practical Hadamard transform spectrometer for astronomical application

The mathematical properties of Hadamard matrices and their application to spectroscopy are discussed. A comparison is made between Fourier and Hadamard transform encoding in spectrometry. The spectrometer is described and its laboratory performance evaluated. The algorithm and programming of inverse transform are given. A minicomputer is used to recover the spectrum.

Tai, M. H.↗

Space Environment Effects on Spacecraft Materials (M0003)

The immediate objectives of this experiment are to understand changes in the properties and structure of materials after exposure to the space environment and to compare these changes with predictions based on laboratory experiments. The experiment consists of 19 subexperiments involving a number of DOD laboratories and contractor organizations. In general, the experimental approach with each of the subexperiments will involve comparison of preflight and postflight analyses. Typical analyses will include the measurement of optical properties (reflectance, transmittance, and refractive index), and macrophysical properties. In addition to measuring changes in the macroscopic properties of the returned specimens, microstructural properties will also be examined. Thus, it may be possible to increase our understanding of the changes induced by the environment. This increased understanding can then be used to predict the performance of materials based on knowledge of the space environment and the results of laboratory tests. This experiment will be a coopperative effort and will provide an opportunity for DOD space programs and laboratories to evaluate materials and components after long exposures to the space environment.

Paul Schall↗

Aerothermal modeling program

Some significant features of the approach adopted for the combustor aerothermal modeling program are described. The individual computerized models utilized in the aero design approach are characterized. The preliminary design module provides the overall envelope definition of the burner. The diffuser module provides the detailed contours of the diffuser and combustor cowl region, as well as the pressure loss characteristics into each of the individual flow passages into the dome and around the combustor. The flow distribution module provides the air entry quantities through each of the aperatures and the overall pressure drop. The heat transfer module provides detailed metal temperature distribution throughout the metal structure as input to stress and life analysis that are not part of the aerothermo design effort. Finally, the internal flow module, INTFLOW, is described and the approach for model evaluation using laboratory data is discussed.

Kenworthy, M.↗

Energy efficient engine high pressure turbine ceramic shroud support technology report

This work represents the development and fabrication of ceramic HPT (high pressure turbine) shrouds for the Energy Efficient Engine (E3). Details are presented covering the work performed on the ceramic shroud development task of the NASA/GE Energy Efficient Engine (E3) component development program. The task consists of four phases which led to the selection of a ZrO2-BY2O3 ceramic shroud material system, the development of an automated plasma spray process to produce acceptable shroud structures, the fabrication of select shroud systems for evaluation in laboratory, component, and CF6-50 engine testing, and finally, the successful fabrication of ZrO2-8Y2O3/superpeg, engine quality shrouds for the E3 engine.

Nelson, W. A.↗

Passive remote sensing of stratospheric and mesospheric winds

A passive infrared sensor for remote sounding of the wind field in the stratosphere and mesosphere from near earth orbital spacecraft is described. The sensor utilizes gas correlation spectroscopy and electrooptic phase-modulation techniques to measure winds in the 20-120 km altitude range, temperature, and atmospheric species concentrations. The operation of the sensor is examined. The sensitivity of the sensor is small Doppler shifts in an observed spectrum and the performance of the instrument were evaluated using laboratory simulation and numerical modeling. The data reveal that the sensor's wind measurements should have an accuracy better than 5 m/s and a spatial resolution of 5 km vertical by 150 km horizontal.

Mccleese, D. J.↗

Thermal barrier coating life prediction model development

A methodology is established to predict thermal barrier coating life in a environment similar to that experienced by gas turbine airfoils. Experiments were conducted to determine failure modes of the thermal barrier coating. Analytical studies were employed to derive a life prediction model. A review of experimental and flight service components as well as laboratory post evaluations indicates that the predominant mode of TBC failure involves thermomechanical spallation of the ceramic coating layer. This ceramic spallation involves the formation of a dominant crack in the ceramic coating parallel to and closely adjacent to the topologically complex metal ceramic interface. This mechanical failure mode clearly is influenced by thermal exposure effects as shown in experiments conducted to study thermal pre-exposure and thermal cycle-rate effects. The preliminary life prediction model developed focuses on the two major damage modes identified in the critical experiments tasks. The first of these involves a mechanical driving force, resulting from cyclic strains and stresses caused by thermally induced and externally imposed mechanical loads. The second is an environmental driving force based on experimental results, and is believed to be related to bond coat oxidation. It is also believed that the growth of this oxide scale influences the intensity of the mechanical driving force.

Demasi, J. T.↗

Atmospheric Modeling And Sensor Simulation (AMASS) study

A 4800 band synchronous communications link was established between the Perkin-Elmer (P-E) 3250 Atmospheric Modeling and Sensor Simulation (AMASS) system and the Cyber 205 located at the Goddard Space Flight Center. An extension study of off-the-shelf array processors offering standard interface to the Perkin-Elmer was conducted to determine which would meet computational requirements of the division. A Floating Point Systems AP-120B was borrowed from another Marshall Space Flight Center laboratory for evaluation. It was determined that available array processors did not offer significantly more capabilities than the borrowed unit, although at least three other vendors indicated that standard Perkin-Elmer interfaces would be marketed in the future. Therefore, the recommendation was made to continue to utilize the 120B ad to keep monitoring the AP market. Hardware necessary to support requirements of the ASD as well as to enhance system performance was specified and procured. Filters were implemented on the Harris/McIDAS system including two-dimensional lowpass, gradient, Laplacian, and bicubic interpolation routines.

Parker, K. G.↗

Six component robotic force-torque sensor

The results of a two-phase contract studying the feasibility of a miniaturized six component force-torque sensor and development of a working laboratory system were described. The principle of operation is based upon using ultrasonic pulse-echo ranging to determine the position of ultrasonic reflectors attached to a metal or ceramic cover plate. Because of the small size of the sensor, this technology may have application in robotics, to sense forces and torques at the finger tip of a robotic end effector. Descriptions are included of laboratory experiments evaluating materials and techniques for sensor fabrication and of the development of support electronics for data acquisition, computer interface, and operator display.

Grahn, Allen R.↗

A mathematical problem and a Spacecraft Control Laboratory Experiment (SCOLE) used to evaluate control laws for flexible spacecraft. NASA/IEEE design challenge

The problen of controlling large, flexible space systems has been evaluated using computer simulation. In several cases, ground experiments have also been used to validate system performance under more realistic conditions. There remains a need, however, to test additional control laws for flexible spacecraft and to directly compare competing design techniques. A program is discussed which has been initiated to make direct comparisons of control laws for, first, a mathematical problem, then and experimental test article being assembled under the cognizance of the Spacecraft Control Branch at the NASA Langley Research Center with the advice and counsel of the IEEE Subcommittee on Large Space Structures. The physical apparatus will consist of a softly supported dynamic model of an antenna attached to the Shuttle by a flexible beam. The control objective will include the task of directing the line-of-sight of the Shuttle antenna configuration toward a fixed target, under conditions of noisy data, control authority and random disturbances.

Taylor, Lawrence W., Jr.↗

Preliminary designs for 25 kWe advanced Stirling conversion systems for dish electric applications

Under the Department of Energy's (DOE) Solar Thermal Technology Program, Sandia National Laboratories is evaluating heat engines for terrestrial Solar Distributed Heat Receivers. The Stirling engine has been identified by Sandia as one of the most promising engines for terrestrial applications. The Stirling engine also has the potential to meet DOE's performance and cost goals. The NASA Lewis Research Center is conducting Stirling engine technology development activities directed toward a dynamic power source for space applications. Space power systems requirements include high reliability, very long life, low vibration and high efficiency. The free-piston Stirling engine has the potential for future high power space conversion systems, either nuclear or solar powered. Although both applications appear to be quite different, their requirements complement each other. Preliminary designs feature a free-piston Stirling engine, a liquid metal heat transport system, and a means to provide nominally 25 kW electric power to a utility grid while meeting DOE's performance and long term cost goals. The Cummins design incorporates a linear alternator to provide the electrical output, while the STC design generates electrical power indirectly through a hydraulic pump/motor coupled to an induction generator. Both designs for the ASCS's will use technology which can reasonably be expected to be available in the early 1990's

Shaltens, Richard K.↗

On-board switching and processing

Findings from NASA's space electronics division's (SED's) advanced systems studies related to future communications satellite services that will require onboard switching and processing technology are reviewed. SED's digital signal switching and processing technology program is reviewed. This program responds to specific systems technology development needs for enabling commercial development of future satellite services. The technologies include: modulators, demodulators, and forward error-correction hardware for space- and ground-based applications; onboard information switching and processing, onboard network control, and health monitoring; and cost-efficient ground terminals. The in-house systems integration, test, and evaluation (SITE) project, which includes a laboratory testbed for evaluating technology in a simulated systems environment, is reviewed.

Harrold, Joseph L.↗