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At least 37 records · Page 2

Thermal Fault Tolerance Analysis of Carbon Fiber Rope Barrier Systems for Use in the Reusable Solid Rocket Motor ( RSRM) Nozzle Joints

Carbon Fiber Rope (CFR) thermal barrier systems are being considered for use in several RSRM (Reusable Solid Rocket Motor) nozzle joints as a replacement for the current assembly gap close-out process/design. This study provides for development and test verification of analysis methods used for flow-thermal modeling of a CFR thermal barrier subject to fault conditions such as rope combustion gas blow-by and CFR splice failure. Global model development is based on a 1-D (one dimensional) transient volume filling approach where the flow conditions are calculated as a function of internal 'pipe' and porous media 'Darcy' flow correlations. Combustion gas flow rates are calculated for the CFR on a per-linear inch basis and solved simultaneously with a detailed thermal-gas dynamic model of a local region of gas blow by (or splice fault). Effects of gas compressibility, friction and heat transfer are accounted for the model. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) solutions of the fault regions are used to characterize the local flow field, quantify the amount of free jet spreading and assist in the determination of impingement film coefficients on the nozzle housings. Gas to wall heat transfer is simulated by a large thermal finite element grid of the local structure. The employed numerical technique loosely couples the FE (Finite Element) solution with the gas dynamics solution of the faulted region. All free constants that appear in the governing equations are calibrated by hot fire sub-scale test. The calibrated model is used to make flight predictions using motor aft end environments and timelines. Model results indicate that CFR barrier systems provide a near 'vented joint' style of pressurization. Hypothetical fault conditions considered in this study (blow by, splice defect) are relatively benign in terms of overall heating to nozzle metal housing structures.

Clayton, J. Louie↗

Atomic data and spectral analysis of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and silicon ions observed with the International Ultraviolet Explorer

According to the plan presented in the original proposal we have now completed most of the atomic calculations involving collision strengths and rate coefficients for electron impact excitation of C II, N III, and O IV ions. These have been reported in the first two publications appended with this report. We have now moved into the applications phase of the project with the new data being used to analyze the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) observations of a variety of objects, as described in the third publication recently submitted (also appended). The analysis and interpretation of archival data will continue well into the next year with several collaborators that the PI and Co-PI are involved with. In addition, the atomic calculations on Si II have been started.

Pradhan, Anil K.↗

Exploratory Analysis of Carbon Dioxide Levels and Ultrasound Measures of the Eye During ISS Missions

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on ISS have typically averaged 2.3 to 5.3mm Hg, with large fluctuations occurring over periods of hours and days. CO2 has effects on cerebral vascular tone, resulting in vasodilation and alteration of cerebral blood flow(CBF). Increased CBF leads to elevated intracranial pressure(ICP), which is a factor leading to visual disturbance, headaches, and other central nervous system symptoms. Ultrasound of the optic nerve provides a surrogate measurement of ICP. Inflight ultrasounds were implemented as an enhanced screening tool for the Visual Impairment/Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) Syndrome. This analysis examines the relationships between ambient CO2 levels on ISS and ultrasound measures of the eye in an effort to understand how CO2 may be associated with VIIP and to inform future analysis of inflight VIIP data. Results as shown in Figure2, there was a large timeframe where CO2 readings were removed due to sensor fault errors(see Limitations), from June 2011 to January 2012. After extensive cleaning of the CO2 data, metrics for all of the data were calculated (Table2). Preliminary analyses showed possible associations between variability measures of CO2 and AP diameter (Figure3),and average CO2 exposure and ONSD(Figure4). Adjustments for multiple comparisons were not made due to the exploratory nature of the analysis.

Schaefer, C.↗

Exploratory Analysis of Carbon Dioxide Levels, Ultrasound and Optical Coherence Tomography Measures of the Eye During ISS Missions

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on board the International Space Station (ISS) have typically averaged 2.3 to 5.3 mmHg, with large fluctuations occurring over periods of hours and days. CO2 has effects on cerebral vascular tone, resulting in vasodilation and alteration of cerebral blood flow (CBF). Increased CBF leads to elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), a factor leading to visual disturbances, headaches, and other central nervous system symptoms. Ultrasound of the optic nerve and optical coherence tomography (OCT) provide surrogate measurements of ICP; in-flight measurements of both were implemented as enhanced screening tools for the Visual Impairment/Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) syndrome. This analysis examines the relationships between ambient CO2 levels on ISS, ultrasound and OCT measures of the eye in an effort to understand how CO2 may possibly be associated with VIIP and to inform future analysis of in-flight VIIP data.

Schaefer, C.↗

Exploratory Analysis of Carbon Dioxide Levels, Ultrasound and Optical Coherence Tomography Measures of the Eye During ISS Missions

Enhanced screening for the Visual Impairment/Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) syndrome has been implemented to better characterize the ocular and vision changes observed in some long-duration crewmembers. This includes implementation of in-flight ultrasound in 2010 and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in 2013. Potential risk factors for VIIP include cardiovascular health, diet, anatomical and genetic factors, and environmental conditions. Carbon dioxide (CO2), a potent vasodilator, is chronically elevated on the International Space Station (ISS) relative to ambient levels on Earth, and is a plausible risk factor for VIIP. In an effort to understand the possible associations between CO2 and VIIP, this study explores the relationship of ambient CO2 levels on ISS compared to inflight ultrasound and OCT measures of the eye obtained from ISS crewmembers. CO2 measurements were aggregated from Operational Data Reduction Complex and Node 3 major constituent analyzers (MCAs) on ISS or from sensors located in the European Columbus module, as available. CO2 levels in the periods between each ultrasound and OCT session are summarized using timeseries metrics, including time-weighted means and variances. Partial least squares regression analyses are used to quantify the complex relationship between specific ultrasound and OCT measures and the CO2 metrics simulataneously. These analyses will enhance our understanding of the possible associations between CO2 levels and structural changes to the eye which will in turn inform future analysis of inflight VIIP data.

Schaefer, C.↗

Thermal/Pyrolysis Gas Flow Analysis of Carbon Phenolic Material

Provided in this study are predicted in-depth temperature and pyrolysis gas pressure distributions for carbon phenolic materials that are externally heated with a laser source. Governing equations, numerical techniques and comparisons to measured temperature data are also presented. Surface thermochemical conditions were determined using the Aerotherm Chemical Equilibrium (ACE) program. Surface heating simulation used facility calibrated radiative and convective flux levels. Temperatures and pyrolysis gas pressures are predicted using an upgraded form of the SINDA/CMA program that was developed by NASA during the Solid Propulsion Integrity Program (SPIP). Multispecie mass balance, tracking of condensable vapors, high heat rate kinetics, real gas compressibility and reduced mixture viscosity's have been added to the algorithm. In general, surface and in-depth temperature comparisons are very good. Specie partial pressures calculations show that a saturated water-vapor mixture is the main contributor to peak in-depth total pressure. Further, for most of the cases studied, the water-vapor mixture is driven near the critical point and is believed to significantly increase the local heat capacity of the composite material. This phenomenon if not accounted for in analysis models may lead to an over prediction in temperature response in charring regions of the material.

Clayton, J. Louie↗

Exploration Analysis of Carbon Dioxide Levels and Ultrasound Measures of the Eye During ISS Missions

Enhanced screening for the Visual Impairment/Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) Syndrome, including in-flight ultrasound, was implemented in 2010 to better characterize the changes in vision observed in some long-duration crewmembers. Suggested possible risk factors for VIIP include cardiovascular changes, diet, anatomical and genetic factors, and environmental conditions. As a potent vasodilator, carbon dioxide (CO (sub 2)), which is chronically elevated on the International Space Station (ISS) relative to typical indoor and outdoor ambient levels on Earth, seems a plausible contributor to VIIP. In an effort to understand the possible associations between CO (sub 2) and VIIP, this study analyzes the relationship between ambient CO (sub 2) levels on ISS and ultrasound measures of the eye obtained from ISS fliers. CO (sub 2) measurements will be pulled directly from Operational Data Reduction Complex for the Lab and Node 3 major constituent analyzers (MCAs) on ISS or from sensors located in the European Columbus module, as available. CO (sub 2) measures between ultrasound sessions will be summarized using standard time series class metrics in MATLAB including time-weighted means and variances. Cumulative CO (sub 2) exposure metrics will also be developed. Regression analyses will be used to quantify the relationships between the CO (sub 2) metrics and specific ultrasound measures. Generalized estimating equations will adjust for the repeated measures within individuals. Multiple imputation techniques will be used to adjust for any possible biases in missing data for either CO (sub 2) or ultrasound measures. These analyses will elucidate the possible relationship between CO (sub 2) and changes in vision and also inform future analysis of inflight VIIP data.

Young, M.↗

Cost analysis of carbon dioxide concentrators

A methodology is developed to predict the relevant contributions of the more intangible cost elements encountered in the development of flight-qualified hardware and is used to predict the costs of three carbon dioxide concentration systems. The cost and performance data from Gemini, Skylab, and other programs are utilized as a basis for establishing the cost estimating relationships. The concentration systems analyzed are the molecular sieves C02 concentrator, the hydrogen-depolarized concentrator, and the regenerable solid desiccant concentrator. Besides the cost estimates for each system, their comparative criteria including relative characteristics, operational differences, and development status are considered.

Yakut, M. M.↗

Cost analysis of carbon dioxide concentrators

Methodology and cost estimating relationships, for flight-type and prototype CO2 concentrators, have been developed and presented. A validity check was made by comparing the molecular sieves system considered here and that developed for Skylab. The system evaluated here is twice the size of the Skylab system and is also more complex as it desorbs CO2 thermally and stores it in an accumulator. The cost estimates developed were found to be approximately 50 to 70% higher than the actual cost of the Skylab unit.

Yakut, M. M.↗

Analysis of carbon dioxide bands near 2.2 micrometers

Carbon dioxide is one of the more important atmospheric infrared-absorbing gases due to its relatively high, and increasing, concentration. The spectral parameters of its bands are required for understanding radiative heat transfer in the atmosphere. The line intensities, positions, line half-widths, rotational constants, and band centers of three overlapping bands of CO2 near 2.2 microns are presented. Non-linear least squares (NLLS) regression procedures were employed to determine these parameters.

Abubaker, M. S.↗

Carbon isotopic analysis of atmospheric methane by isotope-ratio-monitoring gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Less than 15 min are required for the determination of delta C(sub PDB)-13 with a precision of 0.2 ppt(1 sigma, single measurement) in 5-mL samples of air containing CH4 at natural levels (1.7 ppm). An analytical system including a sample-introduction unit incorporating a preparative gas chromatograph (GC) column for separation of CH4 from N2, O2, and Ar is described. The 15-min procedure includes time for operation of that system, high-resolution chromatographic separation of the CH4, on-line combustion and purification of the products, and isotopic calibration. Analyses of standards demonstrate that systematic errors are absent and that there is no dependence of observed values of delta on sample size. For samples containing 100 ppm or more CH4, preconcentration is not required and the analysis time is less than 5 min. The system utilizes a commercially available, high-sensitivity isotope-ratio mass spectrometer. For optimal conditions of smaple handling and combustion, performance of the system is within a factor of 2 of the shot-noise limit. The potential exists therefore for analysis of samples as small as 15 pmol CH4 with a standard deviation of less than 1 ppt.

Merritt, Dawn A.↗

Analysis of Carbon Nanotube Metal-Semiconductor Diode Device

We study recently reported drain current I(sub d)-drain voltage V(sub d) characteristics of a carbon nanotube metal-semiconductor diode device with the gate voltage V(sub g) applied to modulate the carrier density in the nanotube. The diode was kink-shaped at the metal-semiconductor interface. It was shown that (1) larger negative V(sub g) blocked I(sub d) more effectively in the negative V(sub d) region, resulting in the rectifying I(sub d)-V(sub d) characteristics, and that (2) positive V(sub g) allowed I(sub d) in the both V(sub d) polarities, resulting in the non-rectifying characteristics. The negative V(sub d) was the Schottky reverse direction, judging from the negligible I(sub d) behavior for a wide region of -4 V (is less than) V(sub d) (is less than) 0 V, with V(sub g) = -4 V. Such negative V(sub g) would attract positive charges from the metallic electrodes (charge reservoir) to the nanotube and lower the nanotube Fermi energy (E(sub F)). With larger negative V(sub g), the experiment showed that the Schottky forward direction (V(sub d) (is greater than) 0) had a smaller turn-on voltage and the Schottky reverse direction (V(sub d) (is less than) 0) was more resistant to the tunneling breakdown. Therefore, the majority carriers in the transport would be electrons since they can see a lower tunneling barrier (shallower built-in potential) in the forward direction when E(sub F) is lowered, and a thicker tunneling barrier (Schottky barrier) in the reverse direction due to the reduction in the electron density when E(sub F) is lowered.

Yamada, Toshishige↗

Analysis of Carbon Nanotube Metal-Semiconductor Diode Device

We study recently reported drain current Id-drain voltage Vd characteristics of a carbon nanotube metal semiconductor diode device with the gate voltage Vg applied to modulate the carrier density in the nanotube. The diode was kink-shaped at the metal-semiconductor interface. It was shown that (1) larger negative Vg blocked Id more effectively in the negative Vd region, resulting in the rectifying Id-Vd characteristics, and that (2) positive Vg allowed Id in the both Vd polarities, resulting in the non-rectifying characteristics. The negative Vd was the Schottky reverse direction, judging from the negligible Id behavior for a wide region of -4 V less than Vd less than 0 V, with Vg = -4 V. Such negative Vg would attract positive charges from the metallic electrodes (charge reservoir) to the nanotube and lower the nanotube Fermi energy (EF). With larger negative Vg, the experiment showed that the Schottky forward direction (Vd greater than 0) had a smaller turn-on voltage and the Schottky reverse direction (Vd less than 0) was more resistant to the tunneling breakdown. Therefore, the majority carriers in the transport would be electrons since they can see a lower tunneling barrier (shallower built-in potential) in the forward direction when EF is lowered, and a thicker tunneling barrier (Schottky barrier) in the reverse direction due to the reduction in the electron density when EF is lowered.

Yamada, Toshishige↗