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At least 415 records · Page 23

First inductively coupled plasma-distance-of-flight mass spectrometer: instrument performance with a microchannel plate/phosphor imaging detector

Here we describe the first combination of a Distance-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (DOFMS) instrument and an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) ion source. DOFMS is a velocity-based MS technique in which ions of a range of mass-to-charge (m/z) values are detected simultaneously along the length of a spatially selective detector. As a relative of time-of-flight (TOF) MS, DOFMS leverages benefits fromboth TOFMS and spatially dispersive MS. The simultaneous detection of groups of m/z values improves dynamic range by spreading ion signal across many detector elements and reduces correlated noise by signal ratioing. To ascertain the performance characteristics of the ICP-DOFMS instrument, we have employed a microchannel-plate/phosphor detection assembly with a scientific CCD to capture images of the phosphor plate. With this simple (and commercially available) detection scheme, elemental detection limits from 2–30 ng L*1 and a linear dynamic range of 5 orders of magnitude (10–106 ng L1) have been demonstrated. Additionally, a competitive isotope-ratio precision of 0.1% RSD has been achieved with only a 6 s signal integration period. In addition to first figures of merit, this paper outlines technical considerations for the design of the ICP-DOFMS.

Gundlach-Graham, Alexander W.↗

Symmetry and conservation laws in semiclassical wave packet dynamics

We formulate symmetries in semiclassical Gaussian wave packet dynamics and find the corresponding conserved quantities, particularly the semiclassical angular momentum, via Noether’s theorem. We consider two slightly different formulations of Gaussian wave packet dynamics; one is based on earlier works of Heller and Hagedorn and the other based on the symplectic-geometric approach by Lubich and others. In either case, we reveal the symplectic and Hamiltonian nature of the dynamics and formulate natural symmetry group actions in the setting to derive the corresponding conserved quantities (momentum maps). The semiclassical angular momentum inherits the essential properties of the classical angular momentum as well as naturally corresponds to the quantum picture.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Recent progress in backreacted bottom-up holographic QCD

Recent progress in constructing holographic models for QCD is discussed, concentrating on the bottom-up models which implement holographically the renormalization group flow of QCD. The dynamics of gluons can be modeled by using a string-inspired model termed improved holographic QCD, and flavor can be added by introducing space filling branes in this model. The flavor fully backreacts to the glue in the Veneziano limit, giving rise to a class of models which are called V-QCD. The phase diagrams and spectra of V-QCD are in good agreement with results for QCD obtained by other methods.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Non-linear matter power spectrum from Time Renormalisation Group: efficient computation and comparison with one-loop

We address the issue of computing the non-linear matter power spectrum on mildly non-linear scales with efficient semi-analytic methods. We implemented M. Pietroni's Time Renormalization Group (TRG) method and its Dynamical 1-Loop (D1L) limit in a numerical module for the new Boltzmann code CLASS. Our publicly released module is valid for ΛCDM models, and optimized in such a way to run in less than a minute for D1L, or in one hour (divided by number of nodes) for TRG. A careful comparison of the D1L, TRG and Standard 1-Loop approaches reveals that results depend crucially on the assumed initial bispectrum at high redshift. When starting from a common assumption, the three methods give roughly the same results, showing that the partial resumation of diagrams beyond one loop in the TRG method improves one-loop results by a negligible amount. A comparison with highly accurate simulations by M. Sato and T. Matsubara shows that all three methods tend to over-predict non-linear corrections by the same amount on small wavelengths. Percent precision is achieved until k ∼ 0.2 hMpc{sup −1} for z ≥ 2, or until k ∼ 0.14 hMpc{sup −1} at z = 1.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Trapped ultracold bosons in periodically modulated lattices

Motivated by the recent rapid development of the field of quantum gases in optical lattices, we present a comprehensive study of the spectrum of ultracold atoms in a one-dimensional optical lattice subjected to a periodic lattice modulation. Using the time-dependent density matrix renormalization group method, we study the dynamical response due to lattice modulations in different quantum phases of the system with varying density. For the Mott-insulating state, we identify several excitation processes, which provide important information about the density profile of the gases. For the superfluid, the dynamical response can be well described in a local density approximation. This simplification can be valuable in understanding the strong-correlated superfluid in a slow-varying harmonic potential. All these spectroscopic features of an inhomogeneous system can be used as a test for the validity of the Bose-Hubbard model in a parabolic trapping potential.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Spectral properties of trapped one-dimensional ultracold fermions loaded on optical lattices

We examine spectral properties on one-dimensional (1D) trapped ultracold Fermi atoms loaded on optical lattices by using the dynamical density-matrix renormalization group (DDMRG) method. We find that spectra are very rich due to the interplay of free or repulsive interaction and the harmonic-trap potential. One of the rich examples is that a 1D Tomonaga-Luttinger (TL) liquid spectrum emerges beneath multiple bound-state flat levels in the Mott-plateau phase and the TL spectrum gradually disappears with a partial breakdown of the central Mott plateau by increasing the trap strength. A more striking example is the growth of a distinct low-energy broadened band from the bound-state flat levels together with the breakdown. It demonstrates a carrier doping effect into the Mott phase in optical lattice systems.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗

Signatures of pairing in the magnetic excitation spectrum of strongly correlated two-leg ladders [Signatures of pairing in the magnetic excitation spectrum of strongly correlated ladders]

Magnetic interactions are widely believed to play a crucial role in the microscopic mechanism leading to high critical temperature superconductivity. It is therefore important to study the signatures of pairing in the magnetic excitation spectrum of simple models known to show unconventional superconducting tendencies. Using the density matrix renormalization group technique, we calculate the dynamical spin structure factor S(k,ω) of a generalized t–U–J Hubbard model away from half filling in a two-leg ladder geometry. The addition of J enhances pairing tendencies. We analyze quantitatively the signatures of pairing in the magnetic excitation spectra. We found that the superconducting pair-correlation strength, that can be estimated independently from ground state properties, is closely correlated with the integrated low-energy magnetic spectral weight in the vicinity of (π,π). In this wave-vector region, robust spin incommensurate features develop with increasing doping. The branch of the spectrum with rung direction wave vector k rung =0 does not change substantially with doping where pairing dominates and thus plays a minor role. As a result, we discuss the implications of our results for neutron scattering experiments, where the spin excitation dynamics of hole-doped quasi-one-dimensional magnetic materials can be measured and also address implications for recent resonant inelastic x-ray scattering experiments.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Characteristics of discharge disruptions in the T-10 tokamak

The results of experimental studies of discharge disruptions in the T-10 tokamak at the limiting plasma density are presented. On the basis of measurements of the generated soft X-ray emission, for a group of 'slow' disruptions, the dynamics of the magnetic configuration of the central part of the plasma column is studied and the possible role of the m/n = 1/1 mode in the excitation of predisruptions or the final stage of disruption is analyzed. It is shown that the characteristics of plasma electron cooling in predisruptions correspond to those of electron cooling upon pellet injection into T-10 and in discharge predisruptions occurring in regimes with the 'quiet mode.' It is found that, in the latter case, the reason for predisruptions and fast electron cooling in the plasma core is the instability of the m/n = 2/1 mode, its spontaneous spatial reconstruction, and the generation of a 'cooling wave' during this process. Measurements of the electron temperature (determined from the plasma radiation intensity at the second electron cyclotron harmonic) in the zone of the m/n = 2/1 mode have shown that the transformation of the m/n = 2/1 mode leads to the excitation of predisruptions and the final phase of disruption not only in regimes with the 'quiet mode,' but also in disruptions of ordinary ohmic discharges. The experimental results obtained in this work make it possible to determine the scenario of the development of 'slow' discharge disruptions in the T-10 tokamak at the limiting plasma density.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Advanced Methods for the Computation of Particle Beam Transport and the Computation of Electromagnetic Fields and Multiparticle Phenomena

Since 1980, under the grant DEFG02-96ER40949, the Department of Energy has supported the educational and research work of the University of Maryland Dynamical Systems and Accelerator Theory (DSAT) Group. The primary focus of this educational/research group has been on the computation and analysis of charged-particle beam transport using Lie algebraic methods, and on advanced methods for the computation of electromagnetic fields and multiparticle phenomena. This Final Report summarizes the accomplishments of the DSAT Group from its inception in 1980 through its end in 2011.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Resolving Properties of Polymers and Nanoparticle Assembly through Coarse-Grained Computational Studies.

Coupled length and time scales determine the dynamic behavior of polymers and polymer nanocomposites and underlie their unique properties. To resolve the properties over large time and length scales it is imperative to develop coarse grained models which retain the atomistic specificity. Here we probe the degree of coarse graining required to simultaneously retain significant atomistic details a nd access large length and time scales. The degree of coarse graining in turn sets the minimum length scale instrumental in defining polymer properties and dynamics. Using polyethylene as a model system, we probe how the coarse - graining scale affects the measured dynamics with different number methylene group s per coarse - grained beads. Using these models we simulate polyethylene melts for times over 500 ms to study the viscoelastic properties of well - entangled polymer melts and large nanoparticle assembly as the nanoparticles are driven close enough to form nanostructures.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Multidisciplinary Design of an Innovative Natural Draft, Forced Diffusion Cookstove for Woody and Herbaceous Biomass Fuels in East Africa

The goal of the project was to develop a commercially viable, natural draft cookstove that exceeds ISO tier 4 criteria while meeting the needs of rural and urban cooks in East Africa. The cookstove should be market ready that meets the manufacturing cost and usability expectations of the final users, including durability, safety, comfort, aspirational value and compatibility with local fuels, foods, and customs. The cleaner burning cookstove product was designed to replace open fires and inefficient stoves so that it can enhance indoor air quality, personal health, livelihoods, and the environment. The stove was developed using integrated and multidisciplinary design approach that included field based user research and focus groups, empirically verified computational fluid dynamics and heat transfer modeling, lab and field based emission and efficiency measurements, design for manufacturability, as well as in-home user product evaluations.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗

Anti-Icing Coatings using Ionomer Film Layer Structuring

This research effort examined the application of Nafion polymers in alcohol solvents as an anti-ice surface coating, as a mixture with hydrophilic polymers and freezing point depressant salt systems. Co-soluble systems of Nafion, polymer and salt were applied using dip coating methods to create smooth films for frost observation over a Peltier plate thermal system in ambient laboratory conditions. Cryo-DSC was applied to examine freezing events of the Nafion-surfactant mixtures, but the sensitivity of the measurement was insufficient to determine frost behavior. Collaborations with the Fog Chamber at Sandia-Albuquerque, and in environmental SAXS measurements with CINT-LANL were requested but were not able to be performed under the research duration. Since experimental characterization of these factors is difficult to achieve directly, computational modeling was used to guide the scientific basis for property improvement. Computational modeling was performed to improve understanding of the dynamic association between ionomer side groups and added molecules and deicing salts. The polyacrylic acid in water system was identified at the start of the project as a relevant system for exploring the effect of varying counterions on the properties of fully deprotonated polyacrylic acid (PAA) in the presence of water. Simulations were modeled with four different counterions, two monovalent counterions (K+ and Na+) and two divalent counterions (Ca2+ and Mg2+). The wt% of PAA in these systems was varied from ~10 to 80 wt% PAA for temperatures from 250K to 400K. In the second set of simulations, the interpenetration of water into a dry PAA film was studied for Na+ or Ca2+ counterions for temperatures between 300K and 400K. The result of this project is a sprayable Nafion film composite which resists ice nucleation at -20 °C for periods of greater than three hours. It is composed of Nafion polymer, hydrophilic polyethylene oxide polymer and CaCl2 anti-ice crosslinker. Durability and field performance properties remain to be determined.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Supermassive Black Holes as the Regulators of Star Formation in Central Galaxies

We present the relationship between the black hole mass, stellar mass, and star formation rate (SFR) of a diverse group of 91 galaxies with dynamically measured black hole masses. For our sample of galaxies with a variety of morphologies and other galactic properties, we find that the specific SFR is a smoothly decreasing function of the ratio between black hole mass and stellar mass, or what we call the specific black hole mass. In order to explain this relation, we propose a physical framework where the gradual suppression of a galaxy’s star formation activity results from the adjustment to an increase in specific black hole mass, and accordingly, an increase in the amount of heating. From this framework, it follows that at least some galaxies with intermediate specific black hole masses are in a steady state of partial quiescence with intermediate specific SFRs, implying that both transitioning and steady-state galaxies live within this region that is known as the “green valley.” With respect to galaxy formation models, our results present an important diagnostic with which to test various prescriptions of black hole feedback and its effects on star formation activity.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Astrodynamics 1975; Conference, Nassau, Bahamas, July 28-30, 1975, Technical Papers

Articles are grouped under four headings: (1) dynamics and control of satellites; (2) satellite mission analysis; (3) Aeros-B and Symphonie satellite engineering problems; (4) optimization and control techniques applied to solar space heating and cooling of buildings. Topics covered include: communications and earth survey satellite systems, a system of two counter-orbiting satellites measuring GRT-predicted nodal drag, statistical mechanics studies of the spatial density function of orbiting space junk, attitude control of satellites, nutation dampers, low thrust inertial guidance and ascent inertial guidance, a shuttle-launched multi-comet intercept mission, preflight and in-flight analysis of the Atmosphere Explorer (AE-C) satellite, and launch-encounter strategy for the Mariner 1977 Jupiter-Saturn mission. Individual items are announced in this issue.

Powers, W. F.↗

The global tracking networks for crustal dynamics

Highly accurate Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) and Very-Long-Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) have been implemented by the NASA Crustal Dynamics Project and many cooperating groups in many countries to form global SLR and VLBI networks for geodetic measurements of global plate motion, plate deformation, regional deformations in areas of high earthquake activity, and accurate measurements of the earth's polar motion and changes in rotation rate. These systems are measuring vector baselines between stations to an accuracy of 2-5 cm. New improvements being implemented will improve the accuracy to about 1 cm.

Coates, R. J.↗

Far-infrared measurement of stratospheric carbon monoxide

The stratospheric vertical distribution of CO is obtained from balloon-based FIR limb thermal emission spectra by analyzing several limb sequences of the R8 and R1 spectral lines at 34.588 and 49.932/cm, respectively. This constitutes the first determination of the stratospheric CO profile from IR thermal emission spectra. The results, indicating 24.6 + or - 7.6 ppbv at 21 km and 34.4 + or - 10.1 ppbv at 37 km, are compared with the remote-sensing and in situ measurements by other groups and with photochemical-dynamical model calculations.

Abbas, M. M.↗

Developing a control system for ARES 2

A great deal of analysis and testing is conducted at the NASA Langley Research Center to support the development of safe and reliable helicopter rotor systems. This work is performed by the Rotorcraft Aeroelasticity Group located in the Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT) facility. Over the past two decades a wide variety of tests have been successfully conducted in the TDT and their results have contributed significantly to the understanding of aeromechanical phenomena in rotor systems. This has led to improved tools for analysis and design, and ultimately to the development, of improved rotor systems. The TDT facility is ideally suited for these tests due to its unique ability to use a heavy gas as a working medium. This allows the model to be scaled such that the results obtained may be readily extrapolated to full scale. Until recently, the rotor system to be tested has been mounted on a fixed balance which is attached to the longeron which is attached to the stand through a single pitching degree of freedom. The testbed used is known as the Aeroelastic Rotor Experimental System (ARES 1). In order to extend the experimental capabilities to investigate the full rotor/body dynamic coupling present in a rotorcraft, a very ambitious project has been undertaken to design and construct a six degree of freedom system that can be controlled so as to emulate the inertial characteristics of a prescribed model fuselage. The electronic and mechanical hardware for this system has already been designed and constructed. This system is known ar ARES II. The rotor and its drive system are mounted on the balance which is attached to the longeron via six hydraulic actuators. This six degree of freedom parallel linkage is referred to in the literature as a Stuart Platform. By properly adjusting the length of the hydraulic actuators it is possible to position and orient the balance relative to the longeron. The longeron is attached to the stand via a pitch degree of freedom to allow testing over various forward flight regimes. One major task remaining to complete this testbed is the design and synthesis of a control system. To do this properly requires an understanding of the kinematics and dynamics of the system and robust control design. A brief description of the development of a control design is given.

Fitzsimons, Philip M.↗