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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 73 records · Page 4
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2007

Arrays of Bundles of Carbon Nanotubes as Field Emitters

Experiments have shown that with suitable choices of critical dimensions, planar arrays of bundles of carbon nanotubes (see figure) can serve as high-current-density field emitter (cold-cathode) electron sources. Whereas some hot-cathode electron sources must be operated at supply potentials of thousands of volts, these cold-cathode sources generate comparable current densities when operated at tens of volts. Consequently, arrays of bundles of carbon nanotubes might prove useful as cold-cathode sources in miniature, lightweight electron-beam devices (e.g., nanoklystrons) soon to be developed. Prior to the experiments, all reported efforts to develop carbon-nanotube-based field-emission sources had yielded low current densities from a few hundred microamperes to a few hundred milliamperes per square centimeter. An electrostatic screening effect, in which taller nanotubes screen the shorter ones from participating in field emission, was conjectured to be what restricts the emission of electrons to such low levels. It was further conjectured that the screening effect could be reduced and thus emission levels increased by increasing the spacing between nanotubes to at least by a factor of one to two times the height of the nanotubes. While this change might increase the emission from individual nanotubes, it would decrease the number of nanotubes per unit area and thereby reduce the total possible emission current. Therefore, to maximize the area-averaged current density, it would be necessary to find an optimum combination of nanotube spacing and nanotube height. The present concept of using an array of bundles of nanotubes arises partly from the concept of optimizing the spacing and height of field emitters. It also arises partly from the idea that single nanotubes may have short lifetimes as field emitters, whereas bundles of nanotubes could afford redundancy so that the loss of a single nanotube would not significantly reduce the overall field emission.

Manohara, Harish↗
NASA NTRS2010

Phased Array Radiometer Calibration Using a Radiated Noise Source

Electronic beam steering capability of phased array antenna systems offer significant advantages when used in real aperture imaging radiometers. The sensitivity of such systems is limited by the ability to accurately calibrate variations in the antenna circuit characteristics. Passive antenna systems, which require mechanical rotation to scan the beam, have stable characteristics and the noise figure of the antenna can be characterized with knowledge of its physical temperature [1],[2]. Phased array antenna systems provide the ability to electronically steer the beam in any desired direction. Such antennas make use of active components (amplifiers, phase shifters) to provide electronic scanning capability while maintaining a low antenna noise figure. The gain fluctuations in the active components can be significant, resulting in substantial calibration difficulties [3]. In this paper, we introduce two novel calibration techniques that provide an end-to-end calibration of a real-aperture, phased array radiometer system. Empirical data will be shown to illustrate the performance of both methods.

Srinivasan, Karthik↗
NASA NTRS1986

An electromagnetic/electrostatic dual cathode system for electron beam instruments

A method of providing cathode redundancy which consists of two fixed cathodes and uses electromagnetic and/or electrostatic fields to direct the electron beam to the electron optical axis is presented, with application to the cathode system of the Scanning Electron Microscope and Particle Analyzer proposed for NASA's Mariner Mark II Comet Rendezvous/Asteroid Flyby projected for the 1990s. The symmetric double deflection system chosen has the optical property that the image of the effective electron source is formed above the magnet assembly near the apparent position of the effective source, and it makes the transverse positions of the electron sources independent of the electron beam energy. Good performance of the system is found, with the sample imaging resolution being the same as for the single-axis cathode.

Bradley, J. G.↗
NASA NTRS2005

METHOD OF PRODUCING AND ACCELERATING AN ION BEAM

A method of producing and accelerating an ion beam comprising the steps of providing a magnetic field with a cusp that opens in an outward direction along a centerline that passes through a vertex of the cusp: providing an ionizing gas that sprays outward through at least one capillary-like orifice in a plenum that is positioned such that the orifice is on the centerline in the cusp, outward of the vortex of the cusp; providing a cathode electron source, and positioning it outward of the orifice and off of the centerline; and positively charging the plenum relative to the cathode electron source such that the plenum functions as m anode. A hot filament may be used as the cathode electron source, and permanent magnets may be used to provide the magnetic field.

Foster, John E.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Dual-Cathode Electron-Beam Source

Beam from either cathode electromagnetically aligned with exit port. Electron beam from either of two cathodes deflected by magnetic and electric fields to central axis. Mechanical alignment of beam easy because cathode axes, anode apertures, and electron trajectories coplanar. Applications where uninterrupted service needed: scanning electron microscopes, transmission electron microscopes, electron-beam lithography equipment, Auger instruments, and microfocused x-ray sources.

Bradley, James G.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Compact electron-beam source for formation of neutral beams of very low vapor pressure materials

In order to form metal vapors for neutral beam studies, an electron-beam heater and a power supply have been designed. The source, which measures about 30 x 50 x 70 mm, consists of a filament, accelerating plate (defined by pole pieces), and a supported target. The electrons from the filament are focused by the field penetration through a 2 mm slit in the high-voltage cage. They are then accelerated to about 5 kV to a ground plate. The electrons then follow a path in the magnetic field and strike the sample to be heated on its front surface. The assembly is attached to a water-cooled base plate. The electron beam source has produced beams of Ta and C particles with densities of about 10 to the 8th power/cu cm.

Rutherford, J. A.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Recent developments and operation of polarized photocathodes at Jefferson Lab

Spin-polarized electron sources are critical to a wide range of accelerator-based applications for nuclear and particle physics. At Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, they play a central role in delivering high-quality polarized beams for precision nuclear physics experiments and next-generation parity-violation measurements, where stringent control of systematic uncertainties is essential. These sources are also expected to be key components of other initiatives, including the Electron-Ion Collider and the potential future positron capabilities at Jefferson Lab. In this talk, I will present ongoing research and development efforts at Jefferson Lab focused on the design, fabrication and optimization of spin-polarized photocathodes. This includes growth using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) or metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), along with detailed characterization of their performance metrics, such as quantum efficiency (QE), electron spin polarization and QE anisotropy, all of which are increasingly important metrics for polarized electron sources at Jefferson Lab and the Electron-Ion Collider. Strategies to mitigate QE anisotropy, which is critical for reducing helicity-correlated beam asymmetries in precision experiments such as MOLLER will be highlighted. Finally, I will present recent efforts aimed at improving the operational lifetime of spin-polarized photocathodes in injector environments, particularly under high-voltage conditions in DC electron guns. These developments are essential for enabling reliable, high-performance operation of polarized sources for current and future accelerator programs.

Kachwala, Alimohammed [Thomas Jefferson National A↗
NASA NTRS1984

Auroral kilometric radiation: Wave modes, harmonic and source region electron density structures

A change from extraordinary (X) mode to ordinary (0) mode dominance is observed in the auroral kilometric radiation (AKR) detected on ISIS 1 topside sounder ionograms as the source region plasma to gyrofrequency ratio fN/fH varies from 0.1 to 1.3. The X and 0 mode AKR, Z (the slow branch of the X mode) and whistler (W) mode are also observed. The Z mode is typically slightly less intense than the 0-mode. Thw W-mode is confined to frequencies less than fH/2, suggesting that it is the result of field aligned ducted signals reaching the satellite from a source at lower altitudes. Harmonic AKR bands are commonly observed and the 2nd harmonic appears to be due to propagating signals. The deduced (fN/fH) at the bottom of the AKR source region is always less than 0.4 and is typically less than 0.2 during the generation of X-mode AKR, but approaches 0.9 for 0-mode AKR. No large density enhancements were observed within AKR source region density cavities. It is suggested that the observed INTENSE AKR IS cyclotron X-mode radiation rather than plasma frequency 0-mode radiation.

Benson, R. F.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Auroral kilometric radiation - Wave modes, harmonics, and source region electron density structures

A change from extraordinary (X) mode to ordinary (O) mode dominance is observed in the auroral kilometric radiation (AKR) detected on ISIS 1 topside sounder ionograms as the source region plasma to gyrofrequency ratio fN/fH varies from 0.1 to 1.3. The X and O mode AKR, Z (the slow branch of the X mode) and whistler (W) mode are also observed. The Z mode is typically slightly less intense than the O-mode. The W-mode is confined to frequencies less than fH/2, suggesting that it is the result of field aligned ducted signals reaching the satellite from a source at lower altitudes. Harmonic AKR bands are commonly observed and the 2nd harmonic appears to be due to propagating signals. The deduced (fN/fH) at the bottom of the AKR source region is always less than 0.4 and is typically less than 0.2 during the generation of X-mode AKR, but approaches 0.9 for O-mode AKR. No large density enhancements were observed within AKR source region density cavities. It is suggested that the observed intense AKR is cyclotron X-mode radiation rather than plasma frequency O-mode radiation.

Benson, R. F.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Electron beam source molecular beam epitaxial growth of analog graded Al(x)Ga(1-x)As ballistic transistors

A new method has been developed for the growth of graded band-gap Al(x)Ga(1-x)As alloys by molecular beam epitaxy which is based upon electron beam evaporation of the group III elements. The metal fluxes are measured and feedback controlled using a modulated ion gauge sensor. The system is computer controlled which allows precise programming of the Ga and Al evaporation rates. The large dynamic response of the metal sources enables growth of variable band-gap III-V alloys with arbitrary composition profiles. This new technique is demonstrated by synthesis of analog graded Al(x)Ga(1-x)As unipolar ballistic electron transistors.

Malik, Roger J.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Statistical Characterization of Environmental Error Sources Affecting Electronically Scanned Pressure Transducers

Minimization of uncertainty is essential to extend the usable range of the 15-psid Electronically Scanned Pressure (ESP) transducer measurements to the low free-stream static pressures found in hypersonic wind tunnels. Statistical characterization of environmental error sources inducing much of this uncertainty requires a well defined and controlled calibration method. Employing such a controlled calibration system, several studies were conducted that provide quantitative information detailing the required controls needed to minimize environmental and human induced error sources. Results of temperature, environmental pressure, over-pressurization, and set point randomization studies for the 15-psid transducers are presented along with a comparison of two regression methods using data acquired with both 0.36-psid and 15-psid transducers. Together these results provide insight into procedural and environmental controls required for long term high-accuracy pressure measurements near 0.01 psia in the hypersonic testing environment using 15-psid ESP transducers.

Green, Del L.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Statistical Characterization of Environmental Error Sources Affecting Electronically Scanned Pressure Transducers

Minimization of uncertainty is essential to extend the usable range of the 15-psid Electronically Scanned Pressure [ESP) transducer measurements to the low free-stream static pressures found in hypersonic wind tunnels. Statistical characterization of environmental error sources inducing much of this uncertainty requires a well defined and controlled calibration method. Employing such a controlled calibration system, several studies were conducted that provide quantitative information detailing the required controls needed to minimize environmental and human induced error sources. Results of temperature, environmental pressure, over-pressurization, and set point randomization studies for the 15-psid transducers are presented along with a comparison of two regression methods using data acquired with both 0.36-psid and 15-psid transducers. Together these results provide insight into procedural and environmental controls required for long term high-accuracy pressure measurements near 0.01 psia in the hypersonic testing environment using 15-psid ESP transducers.

Green, Del L.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Study the Effects of Charged Particle Radiation on Gravitational Sensors in Space

Space-flight charging of free floating masses poses an unusual problem-- how can one control charge on the object without exerting a significant force on it? One approach is to make contact to the object with a fine wire. However, for many precision applications no physical contact is permissible, so charge must be conveyed in, a more sophisticated manner. One method has already been developed: Gravitational Probe B (GP-B) uses an ultraviolet photo-emission system described in ref 1. This system meets the experiment requirements, yet poses a number of constraints, including high power dissipation (approximately 10 W peak, approximately 1 W average), low current output (approximately 10(exp -13) A), and potential reliability problems associated with fiber optics system and the UV source. The aim of the current research is to improve this situation and, if possible, develop a more rugged and lower power alternative, usable in a wide range of situations. An potential alternative to the UV electron source is a Spindt-type field emission cathode. These consist of an array of extremely sharp silicon tips mounted in a standard IC package with provision for biasing them relative to the case potential. They are attractive as electron sources for space applications due to their low power consumption (10(exp -5) W), high current levels (10(exp -9) to 10(exp -5) A), and the absence of mechanical switching. Unfortunately, existing cathodes require special handling to avoid contamination and gas absorption. These contaminants can cause severe current fluctuations and eventual destruction of the cathode tips. Another potential drawback is the absence of any data indicating the possibility of bipolar current flow. This capability is needed because of the large uncertainties in the net charge transfer from cosmic rays to a free floating mass in space. More recent devices reduce the current fluctuations and destructive arcing by mounting the tips on a resistive substrate rather than a good conductor. This effectively wires a resistor to each individual tip, providing a current limit and thus greatly reducing the possibility of destructive arcing through an individual tip. An issue with this resistive layer is its range of operating temperatures. From the experience with the GP-B system, we hypothesized about using secondary electron emission for control of net charge transfer to an object. An important goal of the testing described below was to demonstrate the ability to apply both positive and negative charges to the test object from a single emitter.

Lipa, John A.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Diagnostic x-ray source using electrons produced by a 100 J-class picosecond laser

Many laser-based high-energy-density science (HEDS) facilities have one or more short-pulse (sub- to few-picosecond) laser beams for diagnostics. For the past decade, we have been developing a novel x-ray probing capability using such picosecond lasers interacting with an underdense plasma to produce relativistic electrons. The ultimate goal of these experiments is to demonstrate a new type of x-ray backlighter using the short-pulse ARC laser at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Before this diagnostic is fielded at the NIF, it is critical to demonstrate the viability and reproducibility of the x-ray source on comparable high-power short-pulse laser systems. We present experiments that were carried out with the OMEGA EP laser at the University of Rochester’s laboratory for laser energetics. In these experiments, high-energy electrons are produced through a combination of the self-modulation instability and direct laser acceleration in an underdense gas jet. These electrons generate directional x-rays with characteristic energies up to several tens of keV as they execute betatron motion in the ion channel, and the inverse Compton scattering process generates even harder x-rays, with characteristic photon energies of 60–240 keV. When implemented on the OMEGA EP laser(s), this x-ray source yields results that are comparable to those obtained recently on the short-pulse Titan laser at the Jupiter Laser Facility at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, after accounting for differences in laser energy, peak intensity, focusing f/#, and plasma source. Applications of such an x-ray source for HEDS experiments are discussed.

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