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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 739 records · Page 41
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

Engineering-Scale Integrated Energy System Data Projection Demonstration via the Dynamic Energy Transport and Integration Laboratory

The objective of this study is to demonstrate and validate the Dynamic Energy Transport and Integration Laboratory (DETAIL) preliminary scaling analysis using Modelica language system-code Dymola. The DETAIL preliminary scaling analysis includes a multisystem integral scaling package between thermal-storage and hydrogen-electrolysis systems. To construct the system of scaled equations, dynamical system scaling (DSS) was applied to all governing laws and closure relations associated with the selected integral system. The existing Dymola thermal-energy distribution system (TEDS) facility and high-temperature steam electrolysis (HTSE) facility models in the Idaho National Laboratory HYBRID repository were used to simulate a test case and a corresponding scaled case for integrated system HYBRID demonstration and validation. The DSS projected data based on the test-case simulations and determined scaling ratios were generated and compared with scaled case simulations. The preliminary scaling analysis performance was evaluated, and scaling distortions were investigated based on data magnitude, sequence, and similarity. The results indicated a necessity to change the normalization method for thermal storage generating optimal operating conditions of 261 kW power and mass flow rate of 6.42 kg/s and the possibility of reselecting governing laws for hydrogen electrolysis to improve scaling predictive properties. To enhance system-scaling similarity for TEDS and HTSE, the requirement for scaling validation via physical-facility demonstration was identified.

08 HYDROGEN↗
DOE OSTI2021

Laboratory Data on the EUV/Soft-X-Ray Flux Problem of Fe XVIII and Fe XIX

Observations by the spacecraft Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE), Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE), Chandra, and XMM-Newton of Capella (α Aurigae) have encountered problems with the relative intensities of the Fe XVIII and Fe XIX line emission in the soft-X-ray (XUV) and extreme-ultraviolet spectral ranges versus various model predictions based on theoretical atomic data. The reason may either lie in astrophysical phenomena, e.g., at emission or because of absorption by the interstellar medium, in the theoretical atomic data, in one or more spectrometer calibrations, or in the spectral modeling. Here, by measurements using an electron beam ion trap we provide laboratory data obtained under conditions that are reasonably close to stellar emission regions. The laboratory data on Fe XVIII and Fe XIX show line ratios that are rather similar to the observations of Capella. The measurements, therefore, rule out astrophysical phenomena and calibration errors and point to issues with the modeling of the observed Capella emission.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2022

Laboratory Accelerated Cyclic Corrosion Testing and On-Road Corrosion Testing of AA6××× Coupled to Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastics

Structures made from a combination of aluminum alloy (AA) and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) are susceptible to galvanic corrosion of the AA in harsh atmospheric conditions, such as might exist for closure panels in automotive applications. It is important to understand the galvanic corrosion behavior of these materials under laboratory conditions as that might allow prediction of performance in real environments. This work tested specially designed AA6×××-CFRP coupons, including AA6111 and AA6022, connected to CFRP made from two different carbon fiber fabrics (twill and random) with the aim of understanding the corrosion behaviors in a laboratory cyclic exposure chamber and during on-road exposure. The extent of corrosion was assessed by galvanic current measurements, optical profilometry, cross-sectional area analysis, and microscopic analysis. Based on the results, it was determined that the corrosion susceptibilities and morphologies observed in CFRP/AA couples tested in an environmental chamber for 12 weeks were in correspondence with those of the coupons subjected to on-road testing for 1 y in Columbus, OH.

Materials Science↗
DOE OSTI2026

Laboratory and field assessment of mid-infrared absorption (MIRA) instrument performance for methane and ethane dry mole fractions

Concurrent measurements of methane (CH 4 ) and ethane (C 2 H 6 ) can be used to identify and separate methane sources, as ethane is present in thermogenic sources (e.g., oil and natural gas) but not in biogenic sources (e.g., agriculture). In this study, we evaluated the performance of multiple Aeris MIRA Ultra instruments (Versions 1 and 2) through controlled laboratory tests and tower-based deployments under field conditions. The systems were modified with an external pump, flow control, a Nafion dryer, and a custom-built auxiliary box to automate the system and transmit near real-time data. We determined the best calibration approach for our application, given practical limitations, to be a full calibration cycle (with ambient and high calibration cylinders) about once per day and an ambient calibration cylinder sampled hourly. Measurement uncertainty was assessed, including the uncertainty due to instrument noise as a function of calibration frequency, uncertainty in the water vapor correction, and cylinder assignment uncertainty. Instrument noise was the dominant source of uncertainty for C 2 H 6 , while the water vapor correction dominated the CH 4 uncertainty. For Version 2 systems with hourly calibrations and a Nafion dryer with counterflow, the mean total uncertainty, including both systematic errors and noise, of hourly averages was 0.8–3.0 ppb CH 4 and 0.35–0.37 ppb C 2 H 6 . Laboratory intercomparisons showed network compatibility within 1.2 ppb CH 4 and 0.23 ppb C 2 H6, and a collocated deployment with a NOAA Picarro system agreed within 1.8 ppb CH 4 . Instrument noise varied substantially amongst the instruments, with errors reaching up to 11 ppb CH 4 and 2 ppb C 2 H 6 for hourly means, with similar variability indicated in a 50 h cylinder test. With appropriate engineering and calibration, the Aeris MIRA Ultra has the potential to distinguish regional methane emission sources in many field settings.

03 NATURAL GAS↗
DOE OSTI2023

Milone eTape Liquid Level Sensor Laboratory Calibration with a Commercial 12.2 cm HS-Flume and 3D Printed 4 cm Micro-HS-Flumes

The NGEE Arctic Rainfall Simulator (NARS) is a variable intensity rainfall simulator (RFS) with a frame design based on the Humphry et al. (2002) RFS and a water delivery system based on the Walnut Gulch (Paige et al., 2004) RFS. The NARS uses an aluminum frame that is fully deconstructable for transportation to field locations and a water system that enables variable rain intensity. Prior to field deployment, H-flume discharge and the corresponding Milone eTape Liquid Level Sensor (eTape) resistance values were measured in the laboratory so that discharge measurements from the NGEE Arctic Rainfall Simulator could be automated. eTape resistance was measured with increasing fluid heights for the full range of the eTape to calculate sensor detection limits and resolution. The eTape was calibrated to both a commercially available 12.2 cm HS-flume and a 3D printed 4 cm Micro-HS-flume. This data package contains two .csv files, one for the eTape calibration and the other for the flume calibrations, and two .stl files to 3D print the 4 cm Micro-HS-Flume design with a 1 cm x 3.6 cm stilling well opening. The .stl files can be opened in most 3D printing or CAD programs/software. Two .kml files of the laboratory location and broader area where testing was conducted are also included in this data package.The Next-Generation Ecosystem Experiments: Arctic (NGEE Arctic), was a research effort to reduce uncertainty in Earth System Models by developing a predictive understanding of carbon-rich Arctic ecosystems and feedbacks to climate. NGEE Arctic was supported by the Department of Energy's Office of Biological and Environmental Research.The NGEE Arctic project had two field research sites: 1) located within the Arctic polygonal tundra coastal region on the Barrow Environmental Observatory (BEO) and the North Slope near Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska and 2) multiple areas on the discontinuous permafrost region of the Seward Peninsula north of Nome, Alaska.Through observations, experiments, and synthesis with existing datasets, NGEE Arctic provided an enhanced knowledge base for multi-scale modeling and contributed to improved process representation at global pan-Arctic scales within the Department of Energy's Earth system Model (the Energy Exascale Earth System Model, or E3SM), and specifically within the E3SM Land Model component (ELM).

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS1970

Optics at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical equipment development at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, discussing flight TV systems and associated digital image processing laboratory, planetary spectroscopy, spacecraft guidance, etc

Johnston, A. R.↗
NASA NTRS1971

Laboratory evaluation of Fecker and Loral optical IR PWI systems

A previous flight test of two electro-optical pilot warning indicators, using a flashing xenon strobe and silicon detectors as cooperative elements, pointed out several design deficiencies. The present laboratory evaluation program corrected these faults and calibrated the sensitivity of both systems in azimuth elevation and range. The laboratory tests were performed on an optical bench and consisted of three basic components: (1) a xenon strobe lamp whose output is monitored at the indicator detector to give pulse to pulse information on energy content at the receiver; (2) a strobe light attenuating optical system which is calibrated photometrically to provide simulated range; and (3) a positioning table on which the indicator system under study is mounted and which provides spatial location coordinates for all data points. The test results for both systems are tabulated.

Gorstein, M.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Feasibility study of a zero-gravity (orbital) atmospheric cloud physics experiments laboratory

A feasibility and concepts study for a zero-gravity (orbital) atmospheric cloud physics experiment laboratory is discussed. The primary objective was to define a set of cloud physics experiments which will benefit from the near zero-gravity environment of an orbiting spacecraft, identify merits of this environment relative to those of groundbased laboratory facilities, and identify conceptual approaches for the accomplishment of the experiments in an orbiting spacecraft. Solicitation, classification and review of cloud physics experiments for which the advantages of a near zero-gravity environment are evident are described. Identification of experiments for potential early flight opportunities is provided. Several significant accomplishments achieved during the course of this study are presented.

Hollinden, A. B.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Definition of experiments and instruments for a communication/navigation research laboratory. Volume 1: Executive summary

This study was undertaken to develop conceptual designs for a manned, space shuttle sortie mission laboratory capable of supporting a wide variety of experiments in conjunction with communications and navigation research. This space/laboratory would be one in which man may effectively increase experiment efficiency by certain observations, modifications, setup, calibration, and limited maintenance steps. In addition, man may monitor experiment progress and perform preliminary data evaluation to verify proper equipment functioning and may terminate or redirect experiments to obtain the most desirable end results. The flexibility and unique capabilities of man as an experimenter in such a laboratory will add greatly to the simplification of space experiments and this provides the basis for commonality in many of the supportive subsystems, thus reaping the benefits of reusability and reduced experiment costs. For Vol. 4, see N73-19268.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1972

Definition of experiments and instruments for a communication/navigation research laboratory. Volume 2: Experiment selection

The selection and definition of candidate experiments and the associated experiment instrumentation requirements are described. Information is presented that addresses the following study objectives: (1) determine specific research and technology needs in the comm/nav field through a survey of the scientific/technical community; (2) develop manned low earth orbit space screening criteria and compile lists of potential candidate experiments; (3) in Blue Book format, define and describe selected candidate experiments in sufficient detail to develop laboratory configuration designs and layouts; and (4) develop experiment time phasing criteria and recommend a payload for sortie can/early laboratory missions.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1972

Silicon-germanium technology program of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

The outer planetary exploration missions studied by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory require silicon-germanium radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) in which the factors of safety are as low as is compatible with the reliable satisfaction of the power needs. Work on silicon germanium sublimation performed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory is presented. Analytical modeling work on the solid-diffusion process involved in the steady-state (free) sublimation of silicon germanium is described. Analytical predictions are made of the sublimation suppression which can be achieved by using a cover gas. A series of accelerated (high-temperature) tests which were performed on simulated hardware (using four SiGe couples) to study long-term sublimation and reaction mechanisms are also discussed.

De Winter, F.↗
NASA NTRS1973

A shuttle compatible advanced technology laboratory.

Discussion of the advanced technology laboratory concept developed at the Langley Research Center as a means for effectively conducting and managing its shuttle experiments using the shuttle sortie mode of operation. The Center is provided with a space counterpart to its ground-based laboratory through which space can be made routinely available to the Langley researcher. This concept is serving as a focal point in planning to meet Langley's future needs in the 70's and 80's.

Sivertson, W. E., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Determination of meteor parameters using laboratory simulation techniques

Atmospheric entry of meteoritic bodies is conveniently and accurately simulated in the laboratory by techniques which employ the charging and electrostatic acceleration of macroscopic solid particles. Velocities from below 10 to above 50 km/s are achieved for particle materials which are elemental meteoroid constituents or mineral compounds with characteristics similar to those of meteoritic stone. The velocity, mass, and kinetic energy of each particle are measured nondestructively, after which the particle enters a target gas region. Because of the small particle size, free molecule flow is obtained. At typical operating pressures (0.1 to 0.5 torr), complete particle ablation occurs over distances of 25 to 50 cm; the spatial extent of the atmospheric interaction phenomena is correspondingly small. Procedures have been developed for measuring the spectrum of light from luminous trails and the values of fundamental quantities defined in meteor theory. It is shown that laboratory values for iron are in excellent agreement with those for 9 to 11 km/s artificial meteors produced by rocket injection of iron bodies into the atmosphere.

Friichtenicht, J. F.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Rotationsal and vibrational spectra of molecular ions: Feasibility of laboratory and astrophysical observation

The rotational spectra of a number of small molecular ions should be detectable in the microwave or millimeter wave regions in laboratory experiments using currently available techniques. The dipole moments and absorption coefficients of polar diatomics CO(+) and NO(+) as well as asymmetric isotopically enriched species, like O-18O-16(+), NE-20NE-22(+), and OC-18 O-16(+) are calculated to be sufficiently large to allow observation of their spectra. In addition to the detailed molecular structure information which such spectral data would provide, precise knowledge of the transition frequencies would render likely the detection of certain of these ions in the interstellar sources or in planetary atmospheres. All of these ions also possess vibrational spectra which should be detectable in the infrared region in laboratory or astrophysical sources.

Woods, R. C.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Laboratory studies on the excitation and collisional deactivation of metastable atoms and molecules in the aurora and airglow

The aeronomy group at the University of Pittsburgh is actively engaged in a series of coordinated satellite, sounding rocket, and laboratory studies designed to expand and clarify knowledge of the physics and chemistry of planetary atmospheres. Three major discoveries have been made that will lead ultimately to a complete and dramatic revision of our ideas on the ionospheres of Mars, Venus, and the Earth and on the origin of their vacuum ultraviolet airglows. The results have already suggested a new generation of ionosphere studies which probably can be carried out best by laser heterodyning techniques. Laboratory studies have also identified, for the first time, the physical mechanism responsible for the remarkable nitric oxide buildup observed in some auroral arcs. This development is an important break-through in auroral physics, and has military ramifications of considerable interest to the Department of Defense. This work may also shed some light on related NO and atomic nitrogen problems in the mesosphere.

Zipf, E. C.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Laboratory and field observations of the growth of columnar and plate crystals from frozen droplets

A laboratory experiment was initiated to grow the banded columnar crystals found in cirrus clouds and to determine if they nucleated through a freezing nucleus. Banded columnar crystals were collected in cirrus clouds and also grown in a laboratory cold box over a temperature range of -20 to -46C. They were observed to grow from a frozen droplet through several distinct crystalline transitions. The first distinct crystalline form observed following the growth of a frozen droplet was a polyhedral crystal. With further growth, the polyhedral crystal developed end plates, and it appeared to be a 'double plate.' Then the separation between the plates nearly filled in to leave the characteristic band. Certain columns (-6 to -10C) and plates (-10 to -20C) were also observed to grow from a frozen droplet and showed similar crystalline transitions.

Heymsfield, A. J.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Laboratory simulation of graphite formation in stellar envelopes

A technique has been developed which permits laboratory simulation of graphite condensation in the envelopes of cool, late sequence stars. Processes in the stellar envelope were simulated by allowing hydrogen-carbon mixtures of typical circumstellar composition and temperature to expand freely into vacuum, cooling and supersaturating the vapor. Expansion products were determined mass spectrometrically through the use of molecular beam techniques. The results of laboratory expansions were scaled to those occurring near M and N stars by comparing the number of collisional events in each case. Kinetic considerations indicate that the important rate process in rarefied envelopes will be C2 formation; consequently scaling by termolecular collisions was employed. Results of this study imply that envelope expansions near M giants contribute at most .01 of the observed interstellar grain density. In the case of pulsating N stars, on the other hand, the results are not inconsistent with previous predictions of essentially complete carbon condensation.

Dorfeld, W. G.↗