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At least 397 records · Page 22

Precipitate growth kinetics under inhomogeneous concentration fields using a phase-field model

We investigate precipitation dynamics in the presence of a local solute gradient using phase-field simulations. During the homogenization heat treatment of the solidified Inconel 718 alloy, high Nb concentration within the Laves phases or at the core of the secondary arms results in Nb diffusion into the γ matrix. The volume fraction and spatial distribution of precipitation during subsequent annealing can be controlled by tailoring the Nb concentration gradient in the matrix during homogenization. We use a surrogate Ni-Fe-Nb alloy for Inconel 718 to explore the growth dynamics of δ precipitates related to the local Nb concentration levels. The simulations indicate that in the presence of a Nb concentration gradient the growth rate of δ precipitates is higher than in a matrix of uniform average Nb concentration. The higher growth rate is a result of the higher local thermodynamic driving force at the interface between the solute-rich matrix and the δ interface. Here, we propose a phenomenological model to describe the diffusion-controlled growth kinetics of the δ phase under a solute concentration gradient.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Butterfly Factorization Via Randomized Matrix-Vector Multiplications

This paper presents an adaptive randomized algorithm for computing the butterfly factorization of an m × n matrix with m ≈ n provided that both the matrix and its transpose can be rapidly applied to arbitrary vectors. The resulting factorization is composed of O(log n) sparse factors, each containing O(n) nonzero entries. The factorization can be attained using O(n 3/2 log n) computation and O(n log n) memory resources. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm can be implemented in parallel and can apply to matrices with strong or weak admissibility conditions arising from surface integral equation solvers as well as multi-frontal-based finite-difference, finite-element, or finite-volume solvers. A distributed-memory parallel implementation of the algorithm demonstrates excellent scaling behavior.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Pit depth analysis using automated software for three containers with complete imaging

The 3013 surveillance program is tasked with ensuring the long term safety of plutonium storage in 3013-compliant containers. One component of this task is to understand corrosion features found on the interior sidewall of the inner container closure weld region (ICCWR). To this end, three containers were selected to have laser confocal microscope (LCM) 20X imaging of the entire ICCWR. This report describes the analysis of the LCM pit depth data using the automated corrosion analysis software. The analysis included determining maximum pit depths and distributions of pit depths, volumes, and diameters for all pit features identified on the three containers. Results provided insight into possible corrosion mechanisms and were consistent with previous pit growth model predictions.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Develop a new integrated macro→micro←nano (MMN) multiscale modeling framework to optimize high strength aluminum alloys and processes for vehicle light-weighting​

Bending tests provide a means to study plane strain fracture performance of 6000 series aluminum alloys. Metrics from bending tests have been correlated with self-pierce riveting (SPR) performance of a high strength AA6111 automotive aluminum alloy in previous works. Using the ORNL HPC resources, this project developed an innovative macro→micro←nano (MMN) multiscale microstructure-based finite element (FE) code to further understanding of the relationship between microstructure and fracture properties of high-strength 6000-series alloys. This work started with microstructural characterization in both mesoscale and nanoscale and bending performance characterization of AA6111 HS2-T6 alloy at Ford, the MMN framework was applied to this alloy to simulate 3-point VDA bending. From the results of the macro-modeling of 3-point VDA bending, the critical region of fracture was identified, and the region geometry was used to construct the micro-model. The fracture criterion of micron-scale precipitates and aluminum matrix which contains submicron and nano particles (AL-SMP-NP) in the micro-model was calibrated and validated by comparing simulated and measured bending results. With the AL-SMP-NP fracture strain obtained, the fracture strain of Al-matrix containing nano particles (ALNP) will similarly be determined by a submicron scale-model using an edge-constrained FE modeling approach developed by Hu et al. With the ALNP fracture strain obtained, the fracture strain of Al-matrix containing no particles will similarly be determined by a nano scale-model using an edge-constrained FE modeling approach. After the MMN framework is built and fracture criterion calibrated, nano-model FE simulations with virtual microstructures was performed to obtain a reduced order model (ROM) of the fracture criterion of the ALNP as a function of volume fraction, size, and distribution of the nanoparticle. This nano→submicron→micro modeling part allows exploration of the influence of different material nanostructures from different process conditions on the bending properties within the multiscale bending simulation framework and the ROM of material bendability as a function of nanoparticle size and shape was established. This obtained reduced order model (ROM) could help guide the design and selection of materials to improve existing SPR process models that could replace trial-and-error rivet/die selection and help to design new rivet/die combinations capable of robustly joining new higher strength 6000 5 series alloys in automotive body structures. This would enable lightweighting of Ford vehicles leading to greater fuel efficiency and reduce manufacturing time and energy.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Investigation of the Effect of Injected CO 2 on the Morrow B Sandstone through Laboratory Batch Reaction Experiments: Implications for CO 2 Sequestration in the Farnsworth Unit, Northern Texas, USA

About one million tons of CO 2 have been injected into the Farnsworth unit to date. The target reservoir for CO 2 injection is the Morrow B Sandstone, which is primarily made of quartz with lesser amounts of albite, calcite, chlorite, and clay minerals. The impact of CO 2 injection on the mineralogy, porosity, and pore water composition of the Morrow B Sandstone is a major concern. Although numerical modeling studies suggest that porosity changes will be minimal, significant alterations to mineralogy and pore water composition are expected. Given the implications for CO 2 storage effectiveness and risk assessment, it is crucial to verify the accuracy of theoretical model predictions through laboratory experiments. To this end, batch reaction experiments were conducted to model conditions near an injection well in the Morrow B Sandstone and at locations further away, where the CO 2 has been diluted by formation water. The laboratory experiments involved submerging thin sections of both coarse- and fine-grained facies of the Morrow B Sandstone in formation water samples with varying levels of CO 2 . The experiments were conducted at the reservoir temperature of 75 °C. Two experimental runs were conducted, one lasting for 61 days and the other for 72 days. The initial fluid composition used in the second run was the same as in the first. The mineralogy changes in the thin sections were analyzed using SEM and the Tescan Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA), while changes in the composition of the formation water were determined using ICP-AES. During each experiment, a thin layer of white fine-grained particles consisting mainly of dolomite and silica formed on the surface of the thin sections, leading to significant reductions in Ca, Mg, and Sr in the formation water. This outcome is consistent with numerical model predictions that dolomite would be the primary mineral that would react with injected CO 2 and that silica would be oversaturated in the formation water. Changes in mineral abundance in the thin sections themselves were much less systematic than in the theoretical modeling experiments, perhaps reflecting heterogeneities in the mineral grain size surface area to volume ratios and mineral distributions in the thin sections not considered in the numerical models.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

The economic value of remote sensing of earth resources from space: An ERTS overview and the value of continuity of service. Volume 3: Intensive use of living resources, agriculture. Part 2: Distribution effects

The results of an investigation of the value of improving information for forecasting future crop harvests are described. A theoretical model is developed to calculate the value of increased speed of availablitiy of that information. The analysis of U.S. domestic wheat consumption was implemented. New estimates of a demand function for wheat and of a cost of storage function were involved, along with a Monte Carlo simulation for the wheat spot and future markets and a model of market determinations of wheat inventories. Results are shown to depend critically on the accuracy of current and proposed measurement techniques.

Bradford, D. F.↗

Propagation of cosmic rays in the Galaxy

The galactic model of cosmic ray confinement is assumed in an in-depth theoretical investigation of cosmic ray propagation in the Galaxy, with consideration also given to the interpretation of observed data. The necessary data concerning the interstellar medium are summarized in order to form a basis for the theoretical formulation of the propagation of cosmic rays, which are assumed to be in a state of equilibrium and homogeneously distributed in the residence volume. The interaction of cosmic rays with the attenuated gases, weak magnetic fields, and radiation fields of the interstellar medium is examined. Many of these interactions lead to the production of radiations ranging the entire electromagnetic spectrum. The possible roles played by cosmic rays in some aspects of galactic dynamics such as the hydrostatic equilibrium of interstellar gas, gravitational instability and formation of clouds, and heating of interstellar gas, are also studied.

Daniel, R. R.↗

Sonic boom research

It is demonstrated that a supersonic airplane configuration weighing over half a million pounds while creating a maximum sonic boom of less than 1 p.s.f. can be designed. New experimental techniques are developed in the wind tunnel and experiments for the sonic boom measurements were carried out. Theoretical analyses were performed for the effects of sonic boom on structures and pollution problems associated with supersonic flights were investigated. Numerical programs were generated for the sonic boom propagations from the near field of an airplane in supersonic flight at high altitude to the ground, taking into account the nonlinear effects and the asymmetric effects due to lift and the spacewise distributions of lift and volume.

Ting, L.↗

Telecommunication service markets through the year 2000 in relation to millimeter wave satellite systems

NASA is currently conducting a series of millimeter wave satellite system market studies to develop 30/20 GHz satellite system concepts that have commercial potential. Four contractual efforts were undertaken: two parallel and independent system studies and two parallel and independent market studies. The marketing efforts are focused on forecasting the total domestic demand for long haul telecommunications services for the 1980-2000 period. Work completed to date and reported in this paper include projections of: geographical distribution of traffic; traffic volume as a function of urban area size; and user identification and forecasted demand.

Stevenson, S. M.↗

Aerodynamic features of turbulent flames

The paper provides an interpretation for a variety of turbulent flame phenomena relating them to the aerodynamic properties of the flow field. This includes the classical notion of the breakdown of laminar flames propagation in ducts, the characteristic features of turbulent flame-fronts recorded by schlieren photography, as well as flame instabilities leading to flashback occurring in a combustion chamber behind a bluff-body flame holder. The rudimentary nature of turbulent flame propagation is shown to be associated with (1) vortex motion of a large-scale turbulent eddy, combined with (2) self-advancement of the flame at the appropriate normal burning speed and (3) the concomitant action of distributed sources of specific volume. The results furnish an insight into the macroscopic properties of the mechanism of turbulent flame propagation, rationalizing in particular its capability to sustain high flow velocities at relatively low normal burning speeds.

Oppenheim, A. K.↗

Computational technique for three-dimensional compressible flow past wings at high angles of attack

A computational technique, based on the integral solution of the full potential equation, has been developed for the solution of three-dimensional high-subsonic flows past wings at high angles of attack. The problem includes two sources of nonlinearities: a boundary oriented nonlinearity (separated flow roll up) and a region oriented nonlinearity (flow compressibility). The former is represented by a nonlinear vortex lattice while the latter is represented by a source distribution inside a finite volume. The solution is obtained by using double iteration cycles; a separated flow (wake) iteration cycle and a compressibility iteration cycle. The computational technique is applied to a delta wing. The results show that the technique is very promising and efficient.

Kandil, O. A.↗

Supersonic aerodynamic characteristics of some reentry concepts for angles of attack up to 90 deg

Past studies of reentry vehicles tested to high angles of attack (up to 90 deg) in the Mach number range from 2 to 4.8 have provided some fundamental insights into the aerodynamic characteristics of such vehicles. Two basic planforms are considered in this paper: highly swept deltas, and circular. The delta concepts include variations in cross section (and thus volume) and in camber distribution. The effectiveness of various types of aerodynamic control devices is also included. The purpose of the paper is to examine the characteristics of the vehicles with a view toward the potential usefulness of such concepts in a flight regime that would include reentry from space into the atmosphere, followed by a transition to sustained atmospheric flight.

Spearman, M. L.↗

Long life nickel electrodes for a nickel-hydrogen cell. III - Results of an accelerated test and failure analyses

Nineteen different designs of nickel electrodes were tested in Ni/H2 boiler plate cells in an accelerated low earth orbit cycle regime to the end of their life. The failure analyses of these cells showed that the major performance changes due to the cycling was a severe reduction of their high rate discharge capability rather than an absolute capacity reduction. Many physical changes of the nickel electrodes were observed after the cycling test. These changes include dimensional expansion, sinter rupture, loose black powdering of the active material, morphology changes, active material migration, increase of pore volume, change of pore distribution, and increase of surface area. All of these were caused by active material expansion with cycling. Among these changes, the morphology change which involves migration of active material away from the current collecting nickel sinter appears to be that most responsible for the reduction of the rate capability.

Lim, H. S.↗

Supersonic aerodynamic characteristics of some reentry concepts for angles of attack to 90 deg

Past studies of reentry vehicles tested to high angles of attack (up to 90 deg) in the Mach number range from 2 to 4.8 are reviewed. Two basic planforms are considered: highly-swept deltas and circular. The delta concepts include variations in cross section (and thus volume) and in camber distribution. The effectiveness of various types of aerodynamic control devices is also included. The purpose of the paper is to examine the characteristics of the vehicles with a view toward the potential usefulness of such concepts in a flight regime that would include reentry from space into the atmosphere followed by a transition to sustained atmospheric flight.

Spearman, M. L.↗

Advanced data structures for the interpretation of image and cartographic data in geo-based information systems

A growing need to usse geographic information systems (GIS) to improve the flexibility and overall performance of very large, heterogeneous data bases was examined. The Vaster structure and the Topological Grid structure were compared to test whether such hybrid structures represent an improvement in performance. The use of artificial intelligence in a geographic/earth sciences data base context is being explored. The architecture of the Knowledge Based GIS (KBGIS) has a dual object/spatial data base and a three tier hierarchial search subsystem. Quadtree Spatial Spectra (QTSS) are derived, based on the quadtree data structure, to generate and represent spatial distribution information for large volumes of spatial data.

Peuquet, D. J.↗

Turbine Vane External Heat Transfer. Volume 1: Analytical and Experimental Evaluation of Surface Heat Transfer Distributions with Leading Edge Showerhead Film Cooling

Progress in predictive design capabilities for external heat transfer to turbine vanes was summarized. A two dimensional linear cascade (previously used to obtain vane surface heat transfer distributions on nonfilm cooled airfoils) was used to examine the effect of leading edge shower head film cooling on downstream heat transfer. The data were used to develop and evaluate analytical models. Modifications to the two dimensional boundary layer model are described. The results were used to formulate and test an effective viscosity model capable of predicting heat transfer phenomena downstream of the leading edge film cooling array on both the suction and pressure surfaces, with and without mass injection.

Turner, E. R.↗

Compatible atmospheres for a space suit, Space Station, and Shuttle based on physiological principles

Fundamental physiological principles have been invoked to design compatible environments for a space suit, Space Station and the spacecraft used to transport the astronauts from earth. These principles include the long-term memory of tissues for a bubble-provoking decompression, the intermittent nature of blood flow in the tight connective tissue(s) responsible for the bends whose incidence in aviators has been shown to be related to bubble volume by the Weibull distribution. In the overall design an astronaut breathing a mixture of 30 percent O2 in N2 for 4-5 h in a spacecraft at 11.9 psia can transfer to a Space Station filled with the same mix at 8.7 psia and, after a further 4-5 h, go EVA at any time without any oxygen prebreathing at any stage. The probable incidence of decompression sickness has been estimated as less than 0.5 percent using the present suit operating at 4.3 psia but the risk could be reduced to zero if the suit pressure were increased to 6.5 psia.

Hills, B. A.↗