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At least 37 records · Page 2

Finite element analysis of thermal barrier coatings

The near-term objective is to develop an understanding of the states of stresses and strains in a Zirconia-yttria thermal barrier coating (TBC) experiencing a given temperature drop. Results so obtained are expected to facilitate experimental work. In order to gain realistic insights into the distribution of stresses and strains in a complex TBC, the finite element approach was selected to model a cylindrical TBC specimen. Experimental evidence reported in the literature indicated the presence of rough interface between the ceramic coat and bond coat. Oxidation of the bond coat at ceramic-bond interface was observed, as was a small amount of cracking in the ceramics near the ceramic-bond interface. To account for these complex features, a plane-strain finite element computer program known as TBCOC was developed, taking advantage of a generic computer code known as MARC. This generic code was made available through the use of a supercomputer (Cray 1). The TBCOC model contains 1316 nodal points and 2140 finite elements. It is capable of a uniform isothermal loading. Results of a sample computer run are presented.

Chang, G. C.↗

Multi-coat polymer photonic crystal films

Polymer composite photonic crystal materials are disclosed as coatings and topcoats which have high reflection (>30%) in a specific range of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as ultraviolet (<400 nm), visible (Vis, 400 nm-700 nm), or near-infrared radiation range (NIR, 700-2000 nm), and relatively low reflection (<20% reflection) in a second, different range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Surprisingly, it was found that through a formulation and additives approach, the optical properties of polymer composite photonic crystal films can be selectively modified from a variety of different coating methods, including spray deposition.

Pearson, Ryan Michael↗

Dopamine-Mediated Polymer Coating Facilitates Area-Selective Atomic Layer Deposition

Area-selective atomic layer deposition (ALD) has the potential to significantly improve current fabrication approaches by introducing a bottom-up process in which robust and conformal thin films are selectively deposited onto patterned substrates. This bottom-up approach requires selective areas of the substrates to be masked to inhibit deposition. Spontaneous self-assembly and organization of a mask, incorporating adhesion and other functions, are particularly attractive for this role as they do not require a separate patterning step. In this work, we make use of the pH/light tunability of catechol adhesion to develop a catechol-functionalized polymer that exhibits tunable adhesion strengths on different materials based on their specific chemistry. Tunable selective deposition was shown between metal/metal oxide substrates by controlling the local pH. Moreover, by controlling the adhesion strength through UV light, the deposition of hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ) during ALD was successfully inhibited.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

High-Performance Low-Cobalt Cathode Materials for Li-ion Batteries

The layer-structured Li[Ni x Co y Mn 1-x-y ]O 2 (NCM) cathode materials have been the best choice for increasing electric vehicle driving distance per charge. The high Ni layered oxide represents successfully commercialized NCM cathodes (such as NCM622 and NCA) in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for EV applications due to their high energy density and acceptable cycling stability. However, the price of cobalt, the key element within LIBs for stability, has nearly tripled over the past few years due to increased demand from the cell phone industry. As mentioned in the DOE Funding Opportunity Announcement, the current materials shortage will also cause speculation for a future global shortage. Therefore, to meet the requirement and sustainability of the next-generation long-range and low-cost EVs, developing cathode materials with low-Co content to achieve higher energy density and lower cost is both essential and urgent. The overarching objective of this work is to develop stabilized NCM cathode materials with low Co content (namely LiNi x Co y Mn 1-x-y O 2 , y ≤ 0.04) to meet DOE’s goal of reducing Co loading below 50 mg Wh -1 while maintaining energy density greater than 600 Wh kg -1 based on cathode material. Via various dopings and coatings scalable methods, we explored and enhanced the cycling performance of low-cobalt cathodes. The final obtained NCM cathodes paired with graphite anode aim to deliver batteries with a high initial specific energy density of over 240 Wh kg -1 and a low capacity fading rate of less than 20% in 1000 cycles under a C/3 discharge rate. To accomplish this goal, a multidisciplinary team with several co-investigators has been formed from three organizations: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). The PI and co-investigators are Dr. Donghai Wang (PI) from PSU with expertise in the synthesis of nanostructured materials and manipulation of interfacial properties of electrochemically active materials, Dr. Jagjit Nanda, with substantial knowledge of and expertise in state-of-the-art cathodes from ORNL, Dr. Chao-Yang Wang with significant experience in advanced cell design and fabrication and cell diagnostics from PSU, and Dr. Chongmin Wang with world-wide known expertise of advance atomic scale characterization of electrode materials from PNNL. Furthermore, this project will leverage and synergistically work with the current DOE-funded programs on battery materials at PSU and ORNL and electrode materials characterization at PNNL. During this funded period, we have accomplished milestones stated as follows: • Scale up production of LiFePO 4 (LFP) coated NCM811 with a production of 300g/batch. Fifteen (≥2 Ah) pouch cells with LFP-coated NCM811 cathode are delivered. Self-evaluated pouch cells in PSU show superior over 80% capacity retention performance even after 1500 cycles at C/3 rate. • Various cations (Al, Ti, Zr, and Mo) substitute cobalt in low-cobalt partially and Co-free cathodes. Their effects on crystal structure and electrochemical behavior are explored. • Phosphate compounds as coating materials represent promising surface protection precursors for low-cobalt cathode materials. Therefore, several metal phosphates were selected for improving the NMC cycling performance and are regarded as effective approaches for a scalable and practical surface protection method. • Production of NCM92, where Nickel content is 92% among transition metals, is scaled up from synthesis to coating and heat treatment procedures. Fifteen 2.7Ah pouch cells with Ti-doped NCM92 cathodes and industrial graphite anode are delivered to Idaho National Lab for testing.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗

Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core (HyTEC) HyTEC Phase 1 – Combustor Final Report

The objective of the HyTEC – Combustor Technology project is to develop technology for a compact, low emissions, rich-burn combustor that maintains a high-level of durability. To accomplish this, the combustor will incorporate CMC liners and a CMC Dome to enable improved air utilization for mixing and NOx reduction. In particular, three technology areas were matured: metallic swirler attachment to the CMC dome, Nickel diffusion in CMC, and EBC advancements with improved durability. The maturation of these technology areas is critical to successfully designing a combustor for an engine intended to demonstrate increased thermal efficiency with integrated high-power density-core engine technologies. As part of the project, multiple swirler attachment architectures were matured through the design process, manufactured, and tested in simulated engine conditions. These architectures utilized two different approaches to attachment: a pressure loaded approach and a clamped approach. Each approach required testing at simulated engine conditions to mature the technology. These tests were developed to ensure that the probable failure mechanisms for each architecture were assessed relative to its long-term durability. After successfully testing both approaches, the pressure loaded approach was chosen based on its simplicity and its similarity to the attachment approach used on lean burn combustors. Finally, this successful testing resulted in the swirler attachment technology achieving TRL 4 status. Another aspect of concern with the metallic swirler attachment is the potential for nickel diffusion into the CMC to cause durability shortfalls. A series of tests were completed to understand both the amount of nickel that is expected to diffuse into the CMC and the effect this diffusion will have on mechanical properties of the CMC. After successfully completing this testing, the reduction in local mechanical properties was found to not have an impact on the overall durability of the CMC Dome. To further improve the overall durability, three different EBC coating architectures were also studied. One of these coatings being the current state of the art for CMC liners with the other two being proposed improvements. Coupons were produced using each coating and subjected to a series of laboratory testing. One coating was found to have an overall superior durability in laboratory testing and survived rig testing without indication of degradation. This successful testing resulted in the EBC technology achieving TRL 5 status. Overall, a design approach was successfully down-selected that achieves both the TPM requirements and the need for TRL 4+ status. This design incorporates a pressure loaded swirler attachment with an improved EBC coating (Architecture 1). This combination allows the continued use of a CMC dome and results in an improved durability for the proposed compact core combustor.

CMC↗

Material Compatibility Study of Coated Metals to Maintain Biocidal Silver in a Spacecraft Potable Water System

Ionic silver-based biocide is an option of strong interest for future exploration and has been baselined for several emerging spacecraft potable water systems. A challenge for the use of silver biocide remains the depletion of ionic silver on wetted materials of construction. Consequently, the design and/or selection of materials that can be used as the wetted system components need specific consideration. As part of the strategy to address this issue, a multitiered approach is being investigated that looks at combinations of conventional and non-conventional spacecraft treatment processes and materials. In this study, eleven chemically-resistant polymer coatings were applied as surface treatments onto coupons that were cut out from three types of conventional spacecraft-grade metals (Titanium Grade 2, Inconel 718, and 316L Stainless Steel). The coated metals were immersed in a static 400 parts per billion silver biocide solution at a surface-area-to-volume ratio of 2.0 cm^-1 and left to soak for predefined periods of time. The concentration of the solution in contact with the coated samples were then analyzed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and the data used to determine the extent to which the coatings provided a barrier to silver loss. This paper summarizes the coating selection process, the configuration of the test, and the performance of each coating-metal combination as a mitigation to silver depletion. The preliminary results demonstrate that select coatings are proving effective at maintaining biocidal silver concentrations. The knowledge acquired through this investigation will be used to assess the feasibility of using these coatings as a robust strategy for maintaining biocidal silver in the water systems. Future studies are planned to assess the specific use of these coatings and to better understand the implications of utilizing this material approach in the future spacecraft potable water system designs.

coatings↗

Material Compatibility Study of Coated Metals to Maintain Biocidal Silver in a Spacecraft Potable Water System

Ionic silver-based biocide is an option of strong interest for future exploration and has been baselined for several emerging spacecraft potable water systems. A challenge for the use of silver biocide remains the depletion of ionic silver on wetted materials of construction. Consequently, the design and/or selection of materials that can be used as the wetted system components need specific consideration. As part of the strategy to address this issue, a multitiered approach is being investigated that looks at combinations of conventional and non-conventional spacecraft treatment processes and materials. In this study, eleven chemically-resistant polymer coatings were applied as surface treatments onto coupons that were cut out from three types of conventional spacecraft-grade metals (Titanium Grade 2, Inconel 718, and 316L Stainless Steel). The coated metals were immersed in a static 400 parts per billion silver biocide solution at a surface-area-to-volume ratio of 2.0 cm^-1 and left to soak for predefined periods of time. The concentration of the solution in contact with the coated samples were then analyzed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and the data used to determine the extent to which the coatings provided a barrier to silver loss. This paper summarizes the coating selection process, the configuration of the test, and the performance of each coating-metal combination as a mitigation to silver depletion. The preliminary results demonstrate that select coatings are proving effective at maintaining biocidal silver concentrations. The knowledge acquired through this investigation will be used to assess the feasibility of using these coatings as a robust strategy for maintaining biocidal silver in the water systems. Future studies are planned to assess the specific use of these coatings and to better understand the implications of utilizing this material approach in the future spacecraft potable water system designs.

coatings↗

Microencapsulation Technologies for Corrosion Protective Coating Applications

Microencapsulation technologies for functional smart Coatings for autonomous corrosion control have been a research area of strong emphasis during the last decade. This work concerns the development of pH sensitive micro-containers (microparticles and microcapsules) for autonomous corrosion control. This paper presents an overview of the state-of-the-art in the field of microencapsulation for corrosion control applications, as well as the technical details of the pH sensitive microcontainer approach, such as selection criteria for corrosion indicators and corrosion inhibitors; the development and optimization of encapsulation methods; function evaluation before and after incorporation of the microcontainers into coatings; and further optimization to improve coating compatibility and performance.

Microencapsulation↗

Functionalization of nitrogen vacancy-containing nanodiamonds with a metal-organic framework for quantum sensing applications

Nitrogen vacancy (NV)-containing nanodiamonds (NDs) are an important material in applications such as biological imaging, catalysis, and, in particular, quantum sensing. Careful manipulation of the surface coating on NV NDs is essential for both enhancing quantum sensor performance and for tuning selectivity towards specific sensing targets. Here, we demonstrate a simple synthetic approach for functionalizing NV NDs with the zeolitic imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) metal–organic framework (MOF), providing a well-ordered, porous scaffold for immobilizing target analytes near the NV ND surface. The composites were structurally characterized by x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and these results were all consistent with NV NDs fully encapsulated by ZIF-8. Critically, the luminescent properties of the NV NDs, which are vital for quantum sensing experiments such as optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR), are unchanged by the MOF coating. Moreover, spin relaxometry experiments indicate that the ZIF-8 coating significantly enhances the NV ND spin longitudinal relaxation time T1, a critical quantum parameter for sensing applications. Given the tremendous structural diversity of MOFs, the NV ND@MOF composites are an exciting material class with exciting implications for the development of high-performance quantum sensors.

Crawford, Scott↗

High resolution video monitoring of coating thickness during plasma spraying

A new approach to monitoring the thickness of plasma sprayed coatings during application is described. The method employs a high resolution video camera and width analyzer to accurately measure the dimensions of samples having simple geometries. This approach is best suited for cylindrical or flat substrates but it may also work for selected locations on more complex geometries. Measurement accuracy is a function of specimen dimensions and extent of magnification. Tolerances of plus or minus 0.5 mil (0.13 mm) on final coating thickness can be achieved. Additionally, the plot of cumulative coating thickess versus the number of passes has proven to be a useful diagnostic tool. While the ideal plot is linear, strong deviations from linearity - indicating the need for corrective action - may be observed.

Miller, Robert A.↗

Spacesuit Soft Upper Torso Sizing Systems

The passive sizing system consists of a series of low-profile pulleys attached to the front and back of the shoulder bearings on a spacesuit soft upper torso (SUT), textile cord or stainless steel cable, and a modified commercial ratchet mechanism. The cord/cable is routed through the pulleys and attached to the ratchet mechanism mounted on the front of the spacesuit within reach of the suited subject. Upon actuating the ratchet mechanism, the shoulder bearing breadth is changed, providing variable upper torso sizing. The active system consists of a series of pressurizable nastic cells embedded into the fabric layers of a spacesuit SUT. These cells are integrated to the front and back of the SUT and are connected to an air source with a variable regulator. When inflated, the nastic cells provide a change in the overall shoulder bearing breadth of the spacesuit and thus, torso sizing. The research focused on the development of a high-performance sizing and actuation system. This technology has application as a suit-sizing mechanism to allow easier suit entry and more accurate suit fit with fewer torso sizes than the existing EMU (Extravehicular Mobility Unit) suit system. This advanced SUT will support NASA s Advanced EMU Evolutionary Concept of a two-sizes-fit-all upper torso for replacement of the current EMU hard upper torso (HUT). Both the passive and nastic sizing system approaches provide astronauts with real-time upper torso sizing, which translates into a more comfortable suit, providing enhanced fit resulting in improved crewmember performance during extravehicular activity. These systems will also benefit NASA by reducing flight logistics as well as overall suit system cost. The nastic sizing system approach provides additional structural redundancy over existing SUT designs by embedding additional coated fabric and uncoated fabric layers. Two sizing systems were selected to build into a prototype SUT: one active and one passive. From manned testing, it was found that both systems offer good solutions to sizing a SUT to fit a crewmember. This new system provided improved suit don/doff over existing spacesuit designs as well as providing better fit at suit operational pressure resulting in improved comfort and mobility. It was found that a SUT with a sizing system may solve several problems that have plagued existing HUT designs, and that a SUT with a sizing system may be a viable option for advanced suit architectures.

Graziosi, David↗

Evaluation of Encapsulated Inhibitor for Autonomous Corrosion Protection

This work concerns the development of smart coating technologies based on microencapsulation for the autonomous control of corrosion. Microencapsulation allows the incorporation of corrosion inhibitors into coating which provides protection through corrosion-controlled release of these inhibitors.One critical aspect of a corrosion protective smart coating is the selection of corrosion inhibitor for encapsulation and comparison of the inhibitor function before and after encapsulation. For this purpose, a systematic approach is being used to evaluate free and encapsulated corrosion inhibitors by salt immersion. Visual, optical microscope, and Scanning Electron Microscope (with low-angle backscatter electron detector) are used to evaluate these inhibitors. It has been found that the combination of different characterization tools provide an effective method for evaluation of early stage localized corrosion and the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors.

Autonomous↗

Selective determination of grain size in the electrodeposition of nanocrystalline nickel foils

There are many synthesis methods through phase space to produce nanostructures in metals. Condensation methods with rapid solidification are extensively explored from the gas or liquid phase. In particular, electrodeposition using pulsed currents favors continuous nucleation in the processing of structures to produce free-standing sheets as well as protective coatings for surfaces. An analysis approach used to develop the method for refining the structure and surface finish for nanocrystalline gold-copper alloy coatings relates the energy in each deposition pulse to the constituent grain size that forms during growth. Application is now pursued to evaluate a select determination of the grain size for nanocrystalline nickel foils synthesized by pulsed electrodeposition. The mechanical behaviors of hardness and rate-sensitivity of strength are assessed as function of grain size.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Optical Diagnostics for Thermal Barrier Coatings

The translucent nature of ceramic oxide thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) provides an opportunity to employ optical probes to monitor temperature gradients and buried damage propagation within the coating. An important advantage of noncontact optical diagnostics is that they are amendable to health monitoring of TBCs in service. In this paper, two optical diagnostic approaches, operating in different wavelength regimes, are discussed. The first approach is the use of mid-infrared reflectance (MIR) to monitor the progression of TBC delamination produced by thermal cycling. This approach takes advantage of the maximum transparency of the TBCs at mid-infrared wavelengths, in particular, between 3 and 5 microns. Recent progress in extending the MIR method to a more practical visual inspection tool will be presented. A second approach, using visible wavelengths, is the embedding of thermographic phosphors within the TBC to add sensing functions to the coating that can provide depth-selective information about temperature gradients and TBC integrity. Emphasis will be given to the use of fluorescence decay time measurements to provide temperature readings from a thermographic phosphor layer residing beneath the TBC.

Eldridge, J. I.↗

Toward Spatial Control of Reaction Selectivity on Photocatalysts Using Area-Selective Atomic Layer Deposition on the Model Dual Site Electrocatalyst Platform

Photocatalytic water splitting is a promising route to low-cost, green H 2 . However, this approach is currently limited in its solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency. One major source of efficiency loss is attributed to the high rates of undesired side and back reactions, which are exacerbated by the proximity of neighboring oxidation and reduction sites. Nanoscopic oxide coatings have previously been used to selectively block undesired reactants from reaching active sites; however, a coating encapsulating the entire photocatalyst particle limits activity as it cannot facilitate both half-reactions. In this work, area selective atomic layer deposition (AS-ALD) was used to selectively deposit semipermeable TiO 2 films onto model metallic cocatalysts for enhancing reaction selectivity while maintaining a high overall activity. Pt and Au were used as exemplary reduction and oxidation cocatalyst sites, respectively, where Au was deactivated toward ALD growth through self-assembled thiol monolayers while TiO 2 was coated onto Pt sites. Electroanalytical measurements of monometallic thin film electrodes showed that the TiO 2 -encapsulated Pt effectively suppressed undesired H 2 oxidation and Fe(II)/Fe(III) redox reactions while still permitting the desired hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). A planar model photocatalyst platform containing patterned interdigitated arrays of Au and Pt microelectrodes was further assessed using scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), demonstrating the successful use of AS-ALD to enable local reaction selectivity in a dual-reaction-site (photo)electrocatalytic system. Finally, interdigitated microelectrodes having independent potential control were used to show that selectively deposited TiO 2 coatings can suppress the rate of back reactions on neighboring active sites by an order of magnitude compared with uncoated control samples.

08 HYDROGEN↗

Composite Reflective Absorptive IR-Blocking Filters Embedded in Metamaterial Antireflection Coated Silicon

Infrared (IR)-blocking filters are crucial for controlling the radiative loading on cryogenic systems and for optimizing the sensitivity of bolometric detectors in the far-IR. We present a new IR filter approach based on a combination of patterned frequency-selective structures on silicon and a thin (2575 micron thick) absorptive composite based on powdered reststrahlen absorbing materials. For a 300 K blackbody, this combination reflects approximately 50% of the incoming light and blocks greater than.99.8% of the total power with negligible thermal gradients and excellent low-frequency transmission. This allows a reduction in the IR thermal loading to negligible levels in a single cold filter. These composite filters are fabricated on silicon substrates, which provide excellent thermal transport laterally through the filter and ensure that the entire area of the absorptive filter stays near the bath temperature. A metamaterial antireflection coating cut into these substrates reduces in-band reflections to below 1%, and the in-band absorption of the powder mix is below 1% for signal bands below 750 GHz. This type of filter can be directly incorporated into silicon refractive optical elements.

Munson, C. D.↗

Final Report: Research Study on Development of Environmental Friendly Spray-on Foam Insulation (SOFI) for the External Tank (ET)

The selection and quantification of four foams using a more environmentally friendly HCFC-141b blowing agent replacing foams that used the CFC-11 blowing agent for the external tank (ET) LWT has been addressed along with problems and solutions that were encountered during verification. The effort on two lower density spray foams for the ET SLWT are presented, but predicted weight savings were not encouraging. Suggestions for possible problem solving are included along with a new approach for selecting foams for qualification as back-up foams for the foams used on the ET LWT. We investigated three resins for use as thermally sprayed coatings for corrosion prevention on metal. The best coating was obtained with a thermoplastic polyimide resin. This coating has a good chance of meeting ET requirements. Possible third generation blowing agents have been shown usable in polyurethane spray and pour foams, and solubility in isocyannate foam components are acceptable. We considered aerogels as insulation materials on space vehicles, and suggested a liner for a liquid oxygen (LOX) composite tank.

Stuckey, James M.↗