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At least 811 records · Page 45

Nondestructive Evaluation of Adhesively Bonded Joints by Acousto-Ultrasonic Technique and Acoustic Emission

Reliable applications of adhesively bonded joints require an effective nondestructive evaluation technique for their bond strength prediction. To properly evaluate factors affecting bond strength, effects of defects such as voids and disbonds on stress distribution in the overlap region must be understood. At the same time, in order to use acousto-ultrasonic (AU) technique to evaluate bond quality, the effect of these defects on dynamic response of single lap joints must be clear. The stress distribution in a single lap joint with and without defects (void or disbond) is analyzed. A bar-Theta parameter which contains adherend and adhesive thickness and properties is introduced. It is shown for bonded joints with bar-Theta greater than 10, that a symmetric void or disbond in the middle of overlap up to the 70 percent of overlap length has negligible effect on bond strength. In contrast frequency response analyses by a finite element technique showed that the dynamic response is affected significantly by the presence of voids or disbonds. These results have direct implication in the interpretations of AU results. Through transmission attenuation and a number of AU parameters for various specimens with and without defects are evaluated. It is found that although void and disbond have similar effects on bond strength (stress distribution), they have completely different effects on wave propagation characteristics. For steel-adhesive-steel specimens with voids, the attenuation changes are related to the bond strength. However, the attenuation changes for specimens with disbond are fairly constant over a disbond range. In order to incorporate the location of defects in AU parameters, a weighting function is introduced. Using an immersion system with focused transducers, a number of AU parameters are evaluated. It is found that by incorporating weighting functions in these parameters better sensitivities (AU parameters vs. bond strength) are achieved. Acoustic emission (AE) activities of steel-adhesive-steel specimens with bar-Theta equal to 3.4 are monitored. Two different formats of energy vs. time have resulted, each corresponding to the perfect specimens or the specimens with void or disbond. The relative acoustic energy and the number of events at failure are found to be a means for predicting the bond strength.

Nayeb-Hashemi, Hamid↗

Study of Elastic and Structural Properties of BaFe2As2 Ultrathin Film Using Picosecond Ultrasonics

We obtain the through-thickness elastic stiffness coefficient (C33) in nominal 9 nm and 60 nm BaFe2As2 (Ba-122) thin films by using picosecond ultrasonics. Particularly, we reveal the increase in elastic stiffness as film thickness decreases from bulk value down to 9 nm, which we attribute to the increase in intrinsic strain near the film-substrate interface. Our density functional theory (DFT) calculations reproduce the observed acoustic oscillation frequencies well. In addition, temperature dependence of longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonon mode frequency for 9 nm Ba-122 thin film is reported. The frequency change is attributed to the change in Ba-122 orthorhombicity (a−b)/(a+b). This conclusion can be corroborated by our previous ultrafast ellipticity measurements in 9 nm Ba-122 thin film, which exhibit strong temperature dependence and indicate the structural phase transition temperature Ts.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Pressure-volume properties of metallic bellows

Metallic bellows are commonly used as segments of propellant feedlines for rocket-propelled vehicles to accommodate temperature-induced length variations, manufacturing tolerances, and gimbaling of the engines. These bellows sections deform radially and change volume when internal pressure varies, and the magnitude of such deformation is much higher than that for the straight, cylindrical segments of the line. The greater flexibility, or lesser stiffness, of the bellows, decreases the frequency of acoustic oscillations in the line. These acoustic oscillations are a major factor in the so-called POGO phenomena which have plagued most of the larger liquid rocket-propelled vehicles for many years. A method is developed to calculate the change in volume of a bellows due to a change in internal pressure. Results of an experiment are also presented along with a test-analysis comparison. The computer code is included.

Kiefling, Larry↗

Dimensional analysis of acoustically propagated signals

Traditionally, long term measurements of atmospherically propagated sound signals have consisted of time series of multiminute averages. Only recently have continuous measurements with temporal resolution corresponding to turbulent time scales been available. With modern digital data acquisition systems we now have the capability to simultaneously record both acoustical and meteorological parameters with sufficient temporal resolution to allow us to examine in detail relationships between fluctuating sound and the meteorological variables, particularly wind and temperature, which locally determine the acoustic refractive index. The atmospheric acoustic propagation medium can be treated as a nonlinear dynamical system, a kind of signal processor whose innards depend on thermodynamic and turbulent processes in the atmosphere. The atmosphere is an inherently nonlinear dynamical system. In fact one simple model of atmospheric convection, the Lorenz system, may well be the most widely studied of all dynamical systems. In this paper we report some results of our having applied methods used to characterize nonlinear dynamical systems to study the characteristics of acoustical signals propagated through the atmosphere. For example, we investigate whether or not it is possible to parameterize signal fluctuations in terms of fractal dimensions. For time series one such parameter is the limit capacity dimension. Nicolis and Nicolis were among the first to use the kind of methods we have to study the properties of low dimension global attractors.

Hansen, Scott D.↗

Characterizing Early Damage Evolution in CMCs

Silicon carbide / silicon carbide ceramic matrix composites (SiC/SiC CMCs) are structural ceramics that are well-suited for the extreme environment conditions of space and aerospace applications largely due to their low weight, creep resistance, damage tolerance, and high specific strength. In CMCs, the initiation and accumulation of damage depends on characteristics of the constituent landscape including porosity, interfacial properties, and geometric distribution of CMC constituents. In order to accurately predict the lifetimes of these advanced composites, it is critical to understand the evolution of damage and to characterize which early damage mechanisms subsequently lead to crack coalescence and macroscopic failure. In this study, SiC/SiC minicomposites are characterized through an experimental approach combining acoustic emission (AE) with tensile testing in-SEM (scanning electron microscope), in order to examine early damage initiation (below the proportional limit) and its evolution at room temperature. The approach provides insight into the relative activity of early damage mechanisms in CMCs at both the surface and subsurface levels and sheds light on the impact of fabrication choices on the evolution of damage to final failure. The potential application of this combined approach towards the characterization of damage in SiC/SiC CMCs under more complex testing conditions will also be discussed.

damage evolution↗

Online Alpha Monitoring of High Cs-137 Hanford and SRS High Level Waste with Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detectors

The Department of Energy’s Hanford and Savannah River Sites maintain millions of gallons of caustic supernate and salt high activity waste in their high-level waste (HLW) tank farm inventories. The Savannah River Site is currently treating this waste with a calixarene-based solvent extraction of Cs-137 to reduce these inventories. Hanford is employing an at-tank crystalline silico titanate (CST) based solid phase extraction methodology to reduce their liquid HLW inventories. Due to the high solubility of Cs-137 and the relative insolubility of the actinides in these caustic waste forms, the beta to alpha radioactivity ratio can often exceed six orders of magnitude in the feed solutions to these treatment processes. This unique characteristic leads to significant technical challenges in making rapid gross alpha measurements in the presence of the overwhelming beta, gamma, as well as dissolved sodium salt in these HLW matrices. Conventional radioanalytical techniques, such as liquid scintillation analysis or gas flow proportional counting require significant radiochemistry preparation prior to the radiometric measurements for gross alpha activity. These required pretreatments render these technologies untenable for rapid quantification of gross alpha activity that could be required to support on or at-line measurements ensuring a waste stream will meet regulatory requirements. The radiation measurement properties of Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detectors (TMFDs) have been studied by Purdue University’s Taleyarkhan research group for well over a decade. Fluids tensioned to the appropriate degree will rupture when struck by radiation, resulting in a measurable cavitation event. The negative pressure generating this tension can be adjusted by centrifugal rotation or by acoustic means in such a way that these cavitation events can be generated from alpha radiation but will not be generated by beta or gamma radiation. Purdue University and the Savannah River National Laboratory are currently collaborating to develop a gamma/beta blind, spectroscopic alpha measurement system based on the Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detector technology to provide a potential solution for performing rapid gross alpha measurements on these high gamma/beta sample matrices. Measurements using the Indirect Drive Acoustically Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detectors developed as part of this collaboration were performed with an alpha emitting radionuclide. Successful determination of gross alpha activity was observed, indicating a potential pathway for rapid gross alpha measurements in remote-handled shielded cells or in process situations requiring online alpha monitoring. Measurements using this system have been conducted on high beta activity solutions, demonstrating the beta blind capability of this system. Measurements are currently underway to test the system’s capability to measure gross alpha activity on Savannah River Site high level waste high Cs-137 samples that have been measured by the SRNL radiochemistry team. This work was supported by the DOE EM Technology Development program.

DiPrete, David [Savannah River National Laboratory↗

Transport of polymer-coated metal–organic framework nanoparticles in porous media

Abstract Injecting fluids into deep underground geologic structures is a critical component to development of long-term strategies for managing greenhouse gas emissions and facilitating energy extraction operations. Recently, we reported that metal–organic frameworks are low-frequency, absorptive-acoustic metamaterial that may be injected into the subsurface to enhance geophysical monitoring tools used to track fluids and map complex structures. A key requirement for this nanotechnology deployment is transportability through porous geologic media without being retained by mineral-fluid interfaces. We used flow-through column studies to estimate transport and retention properties of five different polymer-coated MIL-101(Cr) nanoparticles (NP) in siliceous porous media. When negatively charged polystyrene sulfonate coated nanoparticles (NP-PSS-70K) were transported in 1 M NaCl, only about 8.4% of nanoparticles were retained in the column. Nanoparticles coated with polyethylenimine (NP-PD1) exhibited significant retention (> 50%), emphasizing the importance of complex nanoparticle-fluid-rock interactions for successful use of nanofluid technologies in the subsurface. Nanoparticle transport experiments revealed that nanoparticle surface characteristics play a critical role in nanoparticle colloidal stability and as well the transport.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

Laser techniques in high-pressure geophysics

Laser techniques in conjunction with the diamond-anvil cell can be used to study high-pressure properties of materials important to a wide range of problems in earth and planetary science. Spontaneous Raman scattering of crystalline and amorphous solids at high pressure demonstrates that dramatic changes in structure and bonding occur on compression. High-pressure Brillouin scattering is sensitive to the pressure variations of single-crystal elastic moduli and acoustic velocities. Laser heating techniques with the diamond-anvil cell can be used to study phase transitions, including melting, under deep-earth conditions. Finally, laser-induced ruby fluorescence has been essential for the development of techniques for generating the maximum pressures now possible with the diamond-anvil cell, and currently provides a calibrated in situ measure of pressure well above 100 gigapascals.

Hemley, R. J.↗

In-Plane Shear Testing of Medium and High Modulus Woven Graphite Fiber Reinforced/Polyimide Composites

Iosipescu shear tests were performed at room temperature and at 316 C (600 F) o woven composites with either M40J or M60J graphite fibers and PMR-II-50 polyimide resin matrix. The composites were tested as supplied and after thermo-cycling, with the thermo-cycled composites being tested under dry and wet conditions. Acoustic emission (AE) was monitored during the room and high temperature Iosipescu experiments. The shear stresses at the maximum loads and the shear stresses at the significant onset of AE were determined for the composites as function of temperature and conditioning. The combined effects of thermo-cycling and moisture on the strength and stiffness properties of the composites were evaluated. It was determined that the room and high temperature shear stresses at the maximum loads were unaffected by conditioning. However, at room temperature the significant onset of AE was affected by conditioning; the thermal conditioned wet specimens showed the highest shear stress at the onset of AE followed by thermal-conditioned and then as received specimens. Also, at igh temperature the significant onset of AE occurred in some specimens after the maximum load due to the viscoelastoplastic nature of the matrix material.

Gentz, M.↗

Use of an ultrasonic-acoustic technique for nondestructive evaluation of fiber composite strength

Details of the method used to measure the stress wave factor are described. Frequency spectra of the stress waves are analyzed in order to clarify the nature of the wave phenomena involved. The stress wave factor was measured with simple contact probes requiring only one-side access to a part. This is beneficial in nondestructive evaluations because the waves can run parallel to fiber directions and thus measure material properties in directions assumed by actual loads. The technique can be applied where conventional through transmission techniques are impractical or where more quantitative data are required. The stress wave factor was measured for a series of graphite/polyimide composite panels, and results obtained are compared with through transmission immersion ultrasonic scans.

Vary, A.↗

Optical properties of hydrothermally synthesized Ti 3 C 2 T X MXene quantum dots and their application in biosensor

The remarkable properties of Ti 3 C 2 T X MXene quantum dots (MQDs) highlight their potential in diverse fields, including domains such as biocompatible nanoprobe, ion sensing, energy applications etc. Given their relevance in emerging technologies, a systematic study of their optical properties is crucial. MXene nanosheets were utilized in Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) based biosensors for the detection of organophosphate (OP) pesticides, this suggests there is significant potential for further development of electrochemical biosensor by incorporating MQDs in this field. The synthesis of MQDs has been achieved through various methods, either individually or in combination of methods, including hydrothermal, acoustic microfluidic, electrochemical, ball milling etc. Furthermore, we synthesized Ti 3 C 2 T X MQDs using hydrothermal method and characterized using atomic force microscopy, optical spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Radar studies of the equatorial electrojet at three frequencies.

Radar measurements at 16.25, 49.92, and 146.25 MHz of plasma irregularities in the equatorial electrojet were carried out with the objective to investigate the dependence upon wavelength of the properties of the type I and type II irregularities and to see to what extent this dependence is consistent with present theoretical ideas. The equipment and experimental procedure employed is discussed in detail, and the data obtained are analyzed. The following conclusions have been drawn: the Doppler velocity of the type I echoes corresponds to the acoustic velocity rather than the electron streaming velocity; the acoustic velocity varies with wavelength in at least approximate agreement with theory; and the type II irregularities are probably not excited directly, but rather result from nonlinear interactions among larger irregularities.

Balsley, B. B.↗

Characterization of metal-polymer boundaries using Stoneley and Leaky waves

Optical and acoustooptical techniques for bonded surface inspection and interface wave detection are discussed. Interface wave propagation models based on viscous, elastic, and viscoelastic mechanical properties are reviewed. Gross boundary anomalies such as large defects and localized disbond regions were measured using conventional high frequency pulse echo and pitch catch ultratechniques. Bond durabilty is estimated by comparing detected wave attenuation versus frequency as a function of prebond surface preparation with the experimental limit obtained for perfect welded contact. Sensitivity of interface acoustic field periodicity to both residual and dc applied stress at the boundary surface is observed as well as hysteresis due to viscoelastic polymeric behavior as the applied stress is cycled.

Claus, R. O.↗

Acoustic radiation stress in solids

It is shown that the radiation-induced static strains associated with acoustic waves propagating in solids are obtained directly from the virial theorem for an elastic continuum and that the radiation stresses result from combining the virial theorem with the Boltzmann-Ehrenfest principle of adiabatic invariance. The experimental confirmation of critical theoretical predictions in solids is reported. The implications of the results for the fundamental thermal properties of crystals are addressed.

Cantrell, John H.↗

Mach number effects on free and wall turbulent structures in light of instability flow interactions

Our perception of fluid instabilities and turbulence is largely based on properties of incompressible vorticity distributions, omega, and the Biot-Savart Law of 'instantaneous' induction at distance. In high-speed shear layers it is the distribution of local angular momentum rho-omega that matters; modified interaction-induction between vortical elements is likely to take place only within relative Mach cones of influence, with acoustic time delay. This and the large mean density stratifications influence strongly instability vortex roll-ups, vortex mergings, and large-scale turbulent structures. Consequences of these observations on transition to turbulence and turbulence energetics are discussed in physical terms. Free shear layers and wall layers may require distinct M modeling.

Morkovin, Mark V.↗

An Overview of the Materials Science Research at the Marshall Space Flight Center Electrostatic Levitator Facility and Recent CDDF Efforts

Containerless processing is an important tool for materials research. The freedom from a crucible allows processing of liquid materials in a metastable undercooled state, as well as allowing processing of high temperature and highly reactive melts. Electrostatic levitation (ESL) is a containerless method which provides a number of unique advantages, including the ability to process non-conducting materials, the ability to operate in ultra-high vacuum or at moderate gas pressure (approx. = 5 atm), and the decoupling of positioning force from sample heating. ESL also has the potential to reduce internal flow velocities below those possible with electromagnetic, acoustic, or aero-acoustic techniques. In electrostatic levitation, the acceleration of gravity (or residual acceleration in reduced gravity) is opposed by the action of an applied electric field on a charged sample. Microgravity allows electrostatic levitation to work even more effectively. The ESL facility at NASA s Marshall Space Flight Center is in use for materials research and thermophysical property measurement by a number of different internal and external investigators. Results from the recent CDDF studies on the high energy X-ray beamline at the Advanced Photon Source of Argonne National Laboratory will be presented. The Microgravity Research Program supports the facility.

Source record↗

Spectral Mass Gauging of Unsettled Liquid with Acoustic Waves

Propellant mass gauging is one of the key technologies required to enable the next step in NASA's space exploration program. At present, there is no reliable method to accurately measure the amount of unsettled liquid propellant of an unknown configuration in a propellant tank in micro- or zero gravity. We propose a new approach to use sound waves to probe the resonance frequencies of the two-phase liquid-gas mixture and take advantage of the mathematical properties of the high frequency spectral asymptotics to determine the volume fraction of the tank filled with liquid. We report the current progress in exploring the feasibility of this approach, both experimental and theoretical. Excitation and detection procedures using solenoids for excitation and both hydrophones and accelerometers for detection have been developed. A 3% uncertainty for mass-gauging was demonstrated for a 200-liter tank partially filled with water for various unsettled configurations, such as tilts and artificial ullages. A new theoretical formula for the counting function associated with axially symmetric modes was derived. Scaling analysis of the approach has been performed to predict an adequate performance for in-space applications.

Feller, Jeffrey↗

Calibration of the ARID robot

The author has formulated a new, general model for specifying the kinematic properties of serial manipulators. The new model kinematic parameters do not suffer discontinuities when nominally parallel adjacent axes deviate from exact parallelism. From this new theory the author develops a first-order, lumped-parameter, calibration-model for the ARID manipulator. Next, the author develops a calibration methodology for the ARID based on visual and acoustic sensing. A sensor platform, consisting of a camera and four sonars attached to the ARID end frame, performs calibration measurements. A calibration measurement consists of processing one visual frame of an accurately placed calibration image and recording four acoustic range measurements. A minimum of two measurement protocols determine the kinematics calibration-model of the ARID for a particular region: assuming the joint displacements are accurately measured, the calibration surface is planar, and the kinematic parameters do not vary rapidly in the region. No theoretical or practical limitations appear to contra-indicate the feasibility of the calibration method developed here.

Doty, Keith L↗