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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 595 records · Page 33
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2017

Benchmark results for few-body hypernuclei

Here, the Non-Symmetrized Hyperspherical Harmonics method (NSHH) is introduced in the hypernuclear sector and benchmarked with three different ab-initio methods, namely the Auxiliary Field Diffusion Monte Carlo method, the Faddeev–Yakubovsky approach and the Gaussian Expansion Method. Binding energies and hyperon separation energies of three- to five-body hypernuclei are calculated by employing the two-body ΛN component of the phenomenological Bodmer–Usmani potential, and a hyperon-nucleon interaction simulating the scattering phase shifts given by NSC97f. The range of applicability of the NSHH method is briefly discussed.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
NASA NTRS1988

Modelling of SAR polarisation phase difference from trees

The data for polarization phase difference Delta Phi between the HH- and VV-polarized backscattered waves from tree-covered fields were obtained with an airborne synthetic aperture radar at 1.225 GHz. The mean values over tree-covered fields were derived from the images of the phase difference and were examined as a function of incident beam angle from 15 to 55 deg. A theoretical model for simulating these data, based on the electromagnetic wave scatterings from the tree trunk and its branches, both of which are assumed as very long dielectric cylinders was developed. The radius and direction of a tree branch are taken as random variables and are chosen by a Monte Carlo method to encounter the incident waves in producing the scattering events. The Monte Carlo simulated results are in good agreement with the observations within experimental uncertainty.

Mo, Tsan↗
NASA NTRS1994

Microwave radiative transfer through horizontally inhomogeneous precipitating clouds

Recent advances in cloud microphysical models have led to realistic three-dimensional distributions of cloud constituents. Radiative transfer schemes can make use of this detailed knowledge in order to study the effects of horizontal as well as vertical inhomogeneities within clouds. This study looks specifically at the differences between three-dimensional radiative transfer results and those obtained by plane parallel, independent pixel approximations in the microwave spectrum. A three-dimensional discrete ordinates method as well as a backward Monte Carlo method are used to calculate realistic radiances emerging from the cloud. Analyses between these models and independent pixel approximations reveal that plane parallel approximations introduce two distinct types of errors. The first error is physical in nature and is related to the fact that plane parallel approximations do not allow energy to leak out of dense areas into surrouding areas. In general, it was found that these errors are quite small for emission-dominated frequencies (37 GHz and lower) and that physical errors are highly pronounced only at scattering frequencies (85 GHz) where large deviations and biases up to 8 K averaged over the entire cloud were found. The second error is more geometric in nature and is related to the fact that plane parallel approximations cannot accommodate physical boundaries in the horizontal dimension for off-nadir viewing angles. The geometric errors were comparable in magnitude for all frequencies. Their magnitude, however, depends on a number of factors including the scheme used to deal with the edge, the nature of the surface, and the viewing angle.

Roberti, Laura↗
NASA NTRS1995

A deterministic particle method for one-dimensional reaction-diffusion equations

We derive a deterministic particle method for the solution of nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations in one spatial dimension. This deterministic method is an analog of a Monte Carlo method for the solution of these problems that has been previously investigated by the author. The deterministic method leads to the consideration of a system of ordinary differential equations for the positions of suitably defined particles. We then consider the time explicit and implicit methods for this system of ordinary differential equations and we study a Picard and Newton iteration for the solution of the implicit system. Next we solve numerically this system and study the discretization error both analytically and numerically. Numerical computation shows that this deterministic method is automatically adaptive to large gradients in the solution.

Mascagni, Michael↗
DOE OSTI2021

Accelerate Nuclear Research and Development by Reducing Time and Cost Spend in the Pre-conceptual Design Phase of Advanced Reactor Experiments

The design process of every new concept, such as advanced nuclear reactors or associated experiments, starts with the pre-conceptual design phase. In this phase, the viability of a wide range of design options needs to be assessed quickly, to understand the operating envelope and its feasibility. A variety of physics models (thermal-hydraulics, neutronics, mechanical design, etc.) has to be considered at this very first design stage and optimum component sizes and materials (e.g. heat exchangers, piping, turbomachinery, coolant type, etc.) have to be chosen for a given set of boundary conditions (e.g. heat source, heat sink, flow rate, etc.). Detailed solutions such as provided by high fidelity methods like computational fluid dynamics (CFD), Monte Carlo methods, etc. and even lower fidelity tools such as system or subchannel codes, etc. are usually not used during the pre-conceptual design due to the relatively long time needed to create input models, the computational time to obtain a solution and the lack of flexibility to quickly investigate different combinations of components, individual component sizes and material properties. High fidelity tools are usually only employed in the conceptual design and later phases once a base concept has been identified during the pre-conceptual design stage. The current practice during the pre-conceptual design stage is that analysts collect the needed equations, material properties, closure laws, etc. and create ad-hoc solutions form scratch for every new problem. There clearly is a lack of a flexible scoping tool that can be used during pre-conceptional design before higher fidelity tools (as described above) come into play. To reduce user errors in ad-hoc solutions and increase fidelity and efficiency, this project aims to investigate and develop a user-friendly scoping tool to address the thermal-hydraulic designing needs during preconceptual experiment design, i.e. Thermal-hydraulic Research Universal Scoping Tool (TRUST). The success of TRUST will provide the nuclear engineers with an easy-to-use and affordable calculator for early reactor system design and optimization.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2015

Monte Carlo validation of the TrueBeam 10XFFF phase–space files for applications in lung SABR

Purpose: To establish the clinical acceptability of universal Monte Carlo phase–space data for the 10XFFF (flattening filter free) photon beam on the Varian TrueBeam Linac, including previously unreported data for small fields, output factors, and inhomogeneous media. The study was particularly aimed at confirming the suitability for use in simulations of lung stereotactic ablative radiotherapy treatment plans. Methods: Monte Carlo calculated percent depth doses (PDDs), transverse profiles, and output factors for the TrueBeam 10 MV FFF beam using generic phase–space data that have been released by the Varian MC research team were compared with in-house measurements and published data from multiple institutions (ten Linacs from eight different institutions). BEAMnrc was used to create field size specific phase–spaces located underneath the jaws. Doses were calculated with DOSXYZnrc in a water phantom for fields ranging from 1 × 1 to 40 × 40 cm{sup 2}. Particular attention was paid to small fields (down to 1 × 1 cm{sup 2}) and dose per pulse effects on dosimeter response for high dose rate 10XFFF beams. Ion chamber measurements were corrected for changes in ion collection efficiency (P{sub ion}) with increasing dose per pulse. MC and ECLIPSE ANISOTROPIC ANALYTICAL ALGORITHM (AAA) calculated PDDs were compared to Gafchromic film measurement in inhomogeneous media (water, bone, lung). Results: Measured data from all machines agreed with Monte Carlo simulations within 1.0% and 1.5% for PDDs and in-field transverse profiles, respectively, for field sizes >1 × 1 cm{sup 2} in a homogeneous water phantom. Agreements in the 80%–20% penumbra widths were better than 2 mm for all the fields that were compared. For all the field sizes considered, the agreement between their measured and calculated output factors was within 1.1%. Monte Carlo results for dose to water at water/bone, bone/lung, and lung/water interfaces as well as within lung agree with film measurements to within 2.8% for 10 × 10 and 3 × 3 cm{sup 2} field sizes. This represents a significant improvement over the performance of the ECLIPSE AAA. Conclusions: The 10XFFF phase–space data offered by the Varian Monte Carlo research team have been validated for clinical use using measured, interinstitutional beam data in water and with film dosimetry in inhomogeneous media.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2016

TU-H-BRC-05: Stereotactic Radiosurgery Optimized with Orthovoltage Beams

Purpose: To achieve improved stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) dose distributions using orthovoltage energy fluence modulation with inverse planning optimization techniques. Methods: A pencil beam model was used to calculate dose distributions from the institution’s orthovoltage unit at 250 kVp. Kernels for the model were derived using Monte Carlo methods as well as measurements with radiochromic film. The orthovoltage photon spectra, modulated by varying thicknesses of attenuating material, were approximated using open-source software. A genetic algorithm search heuristic routine was used to optimize added tungsten filtration thicknesses to approach rectangular function dose distributions at depth. Optimizations were performed for depths of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 cm, with cone sizes of 8, 10, and 12 mm. Results: Circularly-symmetric tungsten filters were designed based on the results of the optimization, to modulate the orthovoltage beam across the aperture of an SRS cone collimator. For each depth and cone size combination examined, the beam flatness and 80–20% and 90–10% penumbrae were calculated for both standard, open cone-collimated beams as well as for the optimized, filtered beams. For all configurations tested, the modulated beams were able to achieve improved penumbra widths and flatness statistics at depth, with flatness improving between 33 and 52%, and penumbrae improving between 18 and 25% for the modulated beams compared to the unmodulated beams. Conclusion: A methodology has been described that may be used to optimize the spatial distribution of added filtration material in an orthovoltage SRS beam to result in dose distributions at depth with improved flatness and penumbrae compared to standard open cones. This work provides the mathematical foundation for a novel, orthovoltage energy fluence-modulated SRS system.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2019

Critical Temperature of the Three-Vertex Potts Model on a Kagome Lattice

The Potts model on a Kagome lattice is considered. The Monte Carlo method is used to obtain the temperature dependences of the thermodynamic parameters: heat capacity C, order parameter m, and susceptibility χ. The calculations were performed for systems with periodic boundary conditions. Systems with linear dimensions L × L = N, L = 20–90, were considered. Based on the fourth-order Binder cumulant method, the critical temperature (T{sub c}) was calculated for the three-vertex Potts model on a Kagome lattice. It is shown that the obtained value of T{sub c}, within the statistical error, is in good agreement with the results obtained by the transfer matrix and polynomial approximation methods.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Improving Multi-Model Trajectory Simulation Estimators using Model Selection and Tuning

Multi-model Monte Carlo methods have been demonstrated to be an efficient and accurate alternative to standard Monte Carlo (MC) in the model-based propagation of uncertainty in entry, descent, and landing (EDL) applications. These multi-model MC methods fuse predictions from low-fidelity models with the high-fidelity EDL model of interest to produce unbiased statistics with a fraction of the computational cost. The accuracy and efficiency of the multi-model MC methods are dependent upon the magnitude of correlations of the low-fidelity models with the high-fidelity model, but also upon the correlation amongst the low-fidelity models, and their relative computational cost. Because of this layer of complexity, the question of how to optimally select the set of low-fidelity models has remained open. In this work, methods for optimal model construction and tuning are investigated as a means to increase the speed and precision of trajectory simulation for EDL. Specifically, the focus is on the inclusion of low-fidelity model tuning within the sample allocation optimization that accompanies multi-model MC methods. Preliminary results indicate that low-fidelity model tuning can significantly improve efficiency and precision of trajectory simulations and provide an increased edge to multi-model MC methods when compared to standard MC. The challenges and potential benefits to exploring a fully iterative and comprehensive optimization strategy in future work are highlighted.

uncertainty quantification↗
DOE OSTI2016

Precise calculations in simulations of the interaction of low energy neutrons with nano-dispersed media

We discuss properties of the interaction of slow neutrons with nano-dispersed media and their application for neutron reflectors. In order to increase the accuracy of model simulation of the interaction of neutrons with nanopowders, we perform precise quantum mechanical calculation of potential scattering of neutrons on single nanoparticles using the method of phase functions. We compare results of precise calculations with those performed within first Born approximation for nanodiamonds with the radius of 2–5 nm and for neutron energies 3 × 10{sup -7}–10{sup -3} eV. Born approximation overestimates the probability of scattering to large angles, while the accuracy of evaluation of integral characteristics (cross sections, albedo) is acceptable. Using Monte-Carlo method, we calculate albedo of neutrons from different layers of piled up diamond nanopowder.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2014

SU-E-T-154: Establishment and Implement of 3D Image Guided Brachytherapy Planning System

Purpose: Cannot observe the dose intuitionally is a limitation of the existing 2D pre-implantation dose planning. Meanwhile, a navigation module is essential to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the implantation. Hence a 3D Image Guided Brachytherapy Planning System conducting dose planning and intra-operative navigation based on 3D multi-organs reconstruction is developed. Methods: Multi-organs including the tumor are reconstructed in one sweep of all the segmented images using the multiorgans reconstruction method. The reconstructed organs group establishs a three-dimensional visualized operative environment. The 3D dose maps of the three-dimentional conformal localized dose planning are calculated with Monte Carlo method while the corresponding isodose lines and isodose surfaces are displayed in a stereo view. The real-time intra-operative navigation is based on an electromagnetic tracking system (ETS) and the fusion between MRI and ultrasound images. Applying Least Square Method, the coordinate registration between 3D models and patient is realized by the ETS which is calibrated by a laser tracker. The system is validated by working on eight patients with prostate cancer. The navigation has passed the precision measurement in the laboratory. Results: The traditional marching cubes (MC) method reconstructs one organ at one time and assembles them together. Compared to MC, presented multi-organs reconstruction method has superiorities in reserving the integrality and connectivity of reconstructed organs. The 3D conformal localized dose planning, realizing the 'exfoliation display' of different isodose surfaces, helps make sure the dose distribution has encompassed the nidus and avoid the injury of healthy tissues. During the navigation, surgeons could observe the coordinate of instruments real-timely employing the ETS. After the calibration, accuracy error of the needle position is less than 2.5mm according to the experiments. Conclusion: The speed and quality of 3D reconstruction, the efficiency in dose planning and accuracy in navigation all can be improved simultaneously.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2017

Efficiency and Risk of Investments in Nuclear Power

It is shown that together with the reduced cost of electricity it is also necessary to examine other efficiency criteria for investments in NPP – the internal profitability norm and the discounted payback time of investments – and their impact on the primary profitability criterion of an NPP project – the pure discounted income. The analytical interconnection of the pure discounted income, internal profitability norm of a project, and the discounted payback time of investments, which is obtained using an exponential discounting function for the expected cash flows, is shown. The requirements of the engineering and economic parameters of NPP that make NPP competitive on the world market are formulated from an analysis of the interrelation of investment efficiency criteria. The NPP investment risk evaluated by the Monte Carlo method with prescribed uncertainty of prediction of cash flows during construction and operation of NPP is presented.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2014

Optical properties of human colon tissues in the 350 – 2500 nm spectral range

We present the optical characteristics of the mucosa and submucosa of human colon tissue. The experiments are performed in vitro using a LAMBDA 950 spectrophotometer in the 350 – 2500 nm spectral range. The absorption and scattering coefficients and the scattering anisotropy factor are calculated based on the measured diffuse reflectance and total and collimated transmittance spectra using the inverse Monte Carlo method. (laser biophotonics)

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2016

SU-F-T-132: Variable RBE Models Predict Possible Underestimation of Vaginal Dose for Anal Cancer Patients Treated Using Single-Field Proton Treatments

Purpose: Anal cancer patients treated using a posterior proton beam may be at risk of vaginal wall injury due to the increased linear energy transfer (LET) and relative biological effectiveness (RBE) at the beam distal edge. We investigate the vaginal dose received. Methods: Five patients treated for anal cancer with proton pencil beam scanning were considered, all treated to a prescription dose of 54 Gy(RBE) over 28–30 fractions. Dose and LET distributions were calculated using the Monte Carlo simulation toolkit TOPAS. In addition to the standard assumption of a fixed RBE of 1.1, variable RBE was considered via the application of published models. Dose volume histograms (DVHs) were extracted for the planning treatment volume (PTV) and vagina, the latter being used to calculate the vaginal normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Results: Compared to the assumption of a fixed RBE of 1.1, the variable RBE model predicts a dose increase of approximately 3.3 ± 1.7 Gy at the end of beam range. NTCP parameters for the vagina are incomplete in the current literature, however, inferring value ranges from the existing data we use D{sub 50} = 50 Gy and LKB model parameters a=1–2 and m=0.2–0.4. We estimate the NTCP for the vagina to be 37–48% and 42–47% for the fixed and variable RBE cases, respectively. Additionally, a difference in the dose distribution was observed between the analytical calculation and Monte Carlo methods. We find that the target dose is overestimated on average by approximately 1–2%. Conclusion: For patients treated with posterior beams, the vaginal wall may coincide with the distal end of the proton beam and may receive a substantial increase in dose if variable RBE models are applied compared to using the current clinical standard of RBE equal to 1.1. This could potentially lead to underestimating toxicities when treating with protons.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2013

STARLIB: A NEXT-GENERATION REACTION-RATE LIBRARY FOR NUCLEAR ASTROPHYSICS

STARLIB is a next-generation, all-purpose nuclear reaction-rate library. For the first time, this library provides the rate probability density at all temperature grid points for convenient implementation in models of stellar phenomena. The recommended rate and its associated uncertainties are also included. Currently, uncertainties are absent from all other rate libraries, and, although estimates have been attempted in previous evaluations and compilations, these are generally not based on rigorous statistical definitions. A common standard for deriving uncertainties is clearly warranted. STARLIB represents a first step in addressing this deficiency by providing a tabular, up-to-date database that supplies not only the rate and its uncertainty but also its distribution. Because a majority of rates are lognormally distributed, this allows the construction of rate probability densities from the columns of STARLIB. This structure is based on a recently suggested Monte Carlo method to calculate reaction rates, where uncertainties are rigorously defined. In STARLIB, experimental rates are supplemented with: (1) theoretical TALYS rates for reactions for which no experimental input is available, and (2) laboratory and theoretical weak rates. STARLIB includes all types of reactions of astrophysical interest to Z = 83, such as (p, {gamma}), (p, {alpha}), ({alpha}, n), and corresponding reverse rates. Strong rates account for thermal target excitations. Here, we summarize our Monte Carlo formalism, introduce the library, compare methods of correcting rates for stellar environments, and discuss how to implement our library in Monte Carlo nucleosynthesis studies. We also present a method for accessing STARLIB on the Internet and outline updated Monte Carlo-based rates.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗