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At least 937 records · Page 52
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2012

Quantifying the distribution of paste-void spacing of hardened cement paste using X-ray computed tomography

The distribution of paste-void spacing in cement-based materials is an important feature related to the freeze-thaw durability of these materials, but its reliable estimation remains an unresolved problem. Herein, we evaluate the capability of X-ray computed tomography (CT) for reliable quantification of the distribution of paste-void spacing. Using X-ray CT images of three mortar specimens having different air-entrainment characteristics, we calculate the distributions of paste-void spacing of the specimens by applying previously suggested methods for deriving the exact spacing of air-void systems. This methodology is assessed by comparing the 95th percentile of the cumulative distribution function of the paste-void spacing with spacing factors computed by applying the linear-traverse method to 3D air-void system and reconstructing equivalent air-void distribution in 3D. Results show that the distributions of equivalent void diameter and paste-void spacing follow lognormal and normal distributions, respectively, and the ratios between the 95th percentile paste-void spacing value and the spacing factors reside within the ranges reported by previous numerical studies. This experimental finding indicates that the distribution of paste-void spacing quantified using X-ray CT has the potential to be the basis for a statistical assessment of the freeze-thaw durability of cement-based materials. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The paste-void spacing in 3D can be quantified by X-ray CT. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The distribution of the paste-void spacing follows normal distribution. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The spacing factor and 95th percentile of CDF of paste-void spacing are correlated.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2010

Angular distribution of atoms emitted from a SrZrO{sub 3} target by laser ablation under different laser fluences and oxygen pressures

Angular distributions of atoms emitted by laser ablation of perovskite-type oxide SrZrO{sub 3} have been investigated using electron probe microanalysis with wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy and charge-coupled device photography with an interference filter. Each constituent element has been analyzed as a two-modal distribution composed of a broad cos{sup m} {theta} distribution and a narrow cos{sup n} {theta} distribution. The exponent n characterizes the component of laser ablation while the exponent m characterizes that of thermal evaporation, where a larger n or m means a narrower angular distribution. In vacuum, O (n=6) showed a broader distribution than those of Sr (n=16) and Zr (n=17), and Sr{sup +} exhibited a spatial distribution similar to that of Sr. As the laser fluence was increased from 1.1 to 4.4 J/cm{sup 2}, the angular distribution of Sr became narrower. In the laser fluence range of 1.1-4.4 J/cm{sup 2}, broadening of the angular distribution of Sr was observed only at the fluence of 1.1 J/cm{sup 2} under the oxygen pressure of 10 Pa. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to estimate approximately the energy of emitted atoms, focusing on the broadening of the angular distribution under the oxygen pressure of 10 Pa. The energies of emitted atoms were estimated to be 1-20 eV for the laser fluence of 1.1 J/cm{sup 2}, and more than 100 eV for 2.2 and 4.4 J/cm{sup 2}.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2022

Categorizing distributed wind energy installations in the United States to inform research and stakeholder priorities

Abstract Background Distributed wind energy adoption in the United States can contribute to the diverse portfolio of energy technologies needed to achieve ambitious decarbonization goals. However, with limited deployment to date, the current distributed wind market must be better understood; these efforts will support the range of stakeholders who will drive successful deployment. This article first distinguishes three categories of distributed wind from existing literature: (1) behind the meter, (2) intended for explicit local load, and (3) physically distributed. A novel methodology to classify individual wind installations into each of these categories is then presented and applied to two data sets of wind installations in the United States to categorize and illuminate distinct segments in the distributed wind market. Results Physically distributed installations, constituted by small to moderately sized projects serving local loads on distribution systems solely because of their proximity to them, account for the highest amount of capacity but the lowest number of installations out of the three categories. The inverse is true for behind-the-meter installations, which are used to serve on-site loads. Installations intended for explicit local load, which are interconnected on the utility side of the distribution system and intentionally built to provide energy to loads on the same distribution system, rank in the middle for both installed capacity and number of installations. Conclusions Distributed wind energy deployment in the United States is geographically widespread, but the extent to which a single category is developed in each state varies. Policies, wind resources, and broad energy technology trends contribute to these deployment patterns. By identifying the extent to which each category of installations exists, decision-makers are empowered with data necessary to tailor research and development programs and address stakeholder priorities through policy and other means, ultimately supporting future deployment.

17 WIND ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2017

State Engagement in Electric Distribution System Planning

Electric distribution system planning is focused on assessing needed physical and operational changes to the local grid to maintain safe, reliable, and affordable service. While electric utilities have always engaged in this activity, the planning horizon has typically been short and involvement by state utility regulators minimal. Safety, reliability, and affordability remain top objectives for deeper state engagement in longer-term distribution system planning. Other drivers are proposed utility investments to replace aging infrastructure and modernize grids, opportunities to improve distribution system efficiency, enabling consumers to have greater control over energy costs and sources, and integrating higher levels of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as rooftop solar, distributed energy storage, and price-responsive demand. This report provides a snapshot of current state engagement in distribution system planning: •Part 1 describes activities in states that have adopted some elements of integrated distribution system planning and analysis (see Figure 1): New York, California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Minnesota. It summarizes their impetus for early action, stated goals, regulatory requirements, additional state activities related to distribution system planning, and next steps. •Part 2 covers a broader array of state approaches throughout the country. For example, some of these states have long-standing distribution reliability and performance codes, requiring regulated utilities to report regularly on poor-performing circuits and propose investments for improvements. Other states require regulated utilities to make filings related to proposed grid modernization investments. A growing number of states are beginning to consider comprehensive distribution system planning processes. As this report highlights, approaches vary significantly from state to state, in part stemming from differences in electricity market structure. States can learn from each other and tailor successful approaches to their unique circumstances. Reviewing the broad range of legislative and public utility commission activities described in this report is a useful starting point.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2021

Standardizing Performance Metrics for Building-Level Electrical Distribution Systems

Building-level electrical distribution systems comprise a myriad of current-carrying equipment, conversion devices, and protection devices that deliver power from the utility or local distributed energy resources to end-use building loads. Electric power has traditionally been generated, transmitted, and distributed in alternating current (AC). However, the last decade has seen a significant increase in the integration of native direct current (DC) equipment that has elevated the importance of DC distribution systems. Numerous studies have comparatively examined the performance of various electrical distribution systems in buildings but have failed to achieve uniform conclusions, primarily because of a lack of consistent and analogous performance evaluation methods. This paper aims to fill this gap by providing a standard set of metrics and measurement boundaries to consistently evaluate the performance of AC, DC, or hybrid AC/DC electrical distribution systems. The efficacy of the proposed approach is evaluated on a representative medium-sized commercial office building model with AC distribution and an equivalent hybrid AC/DC and DC distribution model, wherein the AC distribution model is concluded to be the most efficient. The simulation results show variation in computed metrics with different selected boundaries that verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach in ensuring consistent computation of the performance of building-level electrical distribution systems. This paper provides an initial set of guidelines for building energy system stakeholders to adopt appropriate solutions, thus leading to more efficient energy systems.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2011

A study of the role of various reactions on the density distribution of hydrogen, silylene, and silyl in SiH{sub 4}/H{sub 2} plasma discharges

Fluid model has been used to study the effect of pressure on the distribution of hydrogen (H), silylene (SiH{sub 2}), and silyl (SiH{sub 3}) in hydrogen silane plasma discharges used for deposition of hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon ({mu}c-Si:H) or hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) thin films for solar cells. Time averaged reaction rates have been calculated to study the influence of various reactions on the density distributions of hydrogen, silylene, and silyl. Change in the distributions of hydrogen and silylene from bell shaped distribution at low pressure (1 Torr) to double humped distribution at high pressure (5 Torr) is explained with the help of time averaged reaction rates. Important reactions have been identified that contribute to the production and consumption of hydrogen (H), silylene (SiH{sub 2}), and silyl (SiH{sub 3}). The hydrogen consumption reactions SiH{sub 4} + H {yields} SiH{sub 3} + H{sub 2} and SiH{sub 3} + H {yields} SiH{sub 2} + H{sub 2} are found to play a central role in deciding the distribution of hydrogen. On the other hand, silylene consumption reaction SiH{sub 2} + H{sub 2}{yields} SiH{sub 4} is found to play a central role in determining the distribution of silylene. The distribution of these species at high pressure has been explained by using time averaged continuity equation. The code has been optimized by identifying 33 reactions (out of 53 reactions which contribute in the production and consumption of H, SiH{sub 2}, and SiH{sub 3}) that have no net effect on the density and distribution of these species. It is observed that dropping of 33 reactions has insignificant effect on the density of all the thin film deposition precursors such as Si, SiH, SiH{sub 2}, SiH{sub 3}, and Si{sub 2}H{sub 5}. This reduced set of 20 reactions can be used instead of 53 reactions to calculate the density and distribution of H, SiH{sub 2}, and SiH{sub 3} in the fluid simulation of SiH{sub 4}/H{sub 2} plasma discharges.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2015

Linear dispersion properties of ring velocity distribution functions

Linear properties of ring velocity distribution functions are investigated. The dispersion tensor in a form similar to the case of a Maxwellian distribution function, but for a general distribution function separable in velocities, is presented. Analytical forms of the dispersion tensor are derived for two cases of ring velocity distribution functions: one obtained from physical arguments and one for the usual, ad hoc ring distribution. The analytical expressions involve generalized hypergeometric, Kampé de Fériet functions of two arguments. For a set of plasma parameters, the two ring distribution functions are compared. At the parallel propagation with respect to the ambient magnetic field, the two ring distributions give the same results identical to the corresponding bi-Maxwellian distribution. At oblique propagation, the two ring distributions give similar results only for strong instabilities, whereas for weak growth rates their predictions are significantly different; the two ring distributions have different marginal stability conditions.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2016

Comparision of the different probability distributions for earthquake hazard assessment in the North Anatolian Fault Zone

In this study we examined and compared the three different probabilistic distribution methods for determining the best suitable model in probabilistic assessment of earthquake hazards. We analyzed a reliable homogeneous earthquake catalogue between a time period 1900-2015 for magnitude M ≥ 6.0 and estimated the probabilistic seismic hazard in the North Anatolian Fault zone (39°-41° N 30°-40° E) using three distribution methods namely Weibull distribution, Frechet distribution and three-parameter Weibull distribution. The distribution parameters suitability was evaluated Kolmogorov-Smirnov (K-S) goodness-of-fit test. We also compared the estimated cumulative probability and the conditional probabilities of occurrence of earthquakes for different elapsed time using these three distribution methods. We used Easyfit and Matlab software to calculate these distribution parameters and plotted the conditional probability curves. We concluded that the Weibull distribution method was the most suitable than other distribution methods in this region.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2014

Theory of gyroresonance and free-free emissions from non-Maxwellian quasi-steady-state electron distributions

Currently there is a concern about the ability of the classical thermal (Maxwellian) distribution to describe quasi-steady-state plasma in the solar atmosphere, including active regions. In particular, other distributions have been proposed to better fit observations, for example, kappa- and n-distributions. If present, these distributions will generate radio emissions with different observable properties compared with the classical gyroresonance (GR) or free-free emission, which implies a way of remotely detecting these non-Maxwellian distributions in the radio observations. Here we present analytically derived GR and free-free emissivities and absorption coefficients for the kappa- and n-distributions, and discuss their properties, which are in fact remarkably different from each other and from the classical Maxwellian plasma. In particular, the radio brightness temperature from a gyrolayer increases with the optical depth τ for kappa-distribution, but decreases with τ for n-distribution. This property has a remarkable consequence allowing a straightforward observational test: the GR radio emission from the non-Maxwellian distributions is supposed to be noticeably polarized even in the optically thick case, where the emission would have strictly zero polarization in the case of Maxwellian plasma. This offers a way of remote probing the plasma distribution in astrophysical sources, including solar active regions as a vivid example.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2015

SU-E-T-798: Verification of 3DVH Dose Distribution Before Clinical Implementation for Patient-Specific IMRT QA

Purpose: In recent years patient-specific IMRT QA has transitioned from film and chamber measurements to beam-by-beam 2D array measurements. 3DVH takes this transition a step further by estimating the 3D dose distribution delivered using 2D per beam diode array measurements. In this study, the 3D dose distribution generated by 3DVH is compared to film and chamber measurements. In addition, the accuracy ROI volume and error detection is investigated. Methods: Composite film and ion chamber measurements in a solid water phantom were performed for 9 IMRT PINNACLE patient plans for 4 treatment sites. The film and chamber measurements were compared to the dose distribution predicted by 3DVH using MAPCHECK2 per beam measurements. The absolute point dose measurement (CAX) was extracted from the predicted 3DVH and PINNACLE dose distribution and was compared by taking the ratio of measured to predicted doses. The dose distribution measured with film was compared to the distribution in the corresponding plane (AX, SAG, COR) extracted from predicted dose distribution by 3DVH and PINNACLE using a 2D gamma analysis. Gamma analysis was performed with 2% dose, 2 mm DTA, 20% threshold, and global normalization. In addition, the percent difference between 3DVH and PINNACLE ROI volumes was calculated. Results: The average ratio of the measured point dose vs the 3DVH predicted dose was 1.017 (σ=0.011). The average gamma passing rate for measured vs 3DVH dose distributions was 95.1% (σ=2.53%). The average percent difference of 3DVH vs PINNACLE ROI volume was 2.29% (σ=2.5%). Conclusion: The dose distributions predicted by 3DVH using MAPCHECK2 measurements are the same as the distributions that would have been obtained using film and chamber. The ROI volumes used in 3DVH are not an exact match to those in PINNACLE; the effect requires more investigation. The accuracy of error detection by 3DVH is currently being investigated.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2016

SU-F-J-133: Adaptive Radiation Therapy with a Four-Dimensional Dose Calculation Algorithm That Optimizes Dose Distribution Considering Breathing Motion

Purpose: To model patient motion and produce four-dimensional (4D) optimized dose distributions that consider motion-artifacts in the dose calculation during the treatment planning process. Methods: An algorithm for dose calculation is developed where patient motion is considered in dose calculation at the stage of the treatment planning. First, optimal dose distributions are calculated for the stationary target volume where the dose distributions are optimized considering intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Second, a convolution-kernel is produced from the best-fitting curve which matches the motion trajectory of the patient. Third, the motion kernel is deconvolved with the initial dose distribution optimized for the stationary target to produce a dose distribution that is optimized in four-dimensions. This algorithm is tested with measured doses using a mobile phantom that moves with controlled motion patterns. Results: A motion-optimized dose distribution is obtained from the initial dose distribution of the stationary target by deconvolution with the motion-kernel of the mobile target. This motion-optimized dose distribution is equivalent to that optimized for the stationary target using IMRT. The motion-optimized and measured dose distributions are tested with the gamma index with a passing rate of >95% considering 3% dose-difference and 3mm distance-to-agreement. If the dose delivery per beam takes place over several respiratory cycles, then the spread-out of the dose distributions is only dependent on the motion amplitude and not affected by motion frequency and phase. This algorithm is limited to motion amplitudes that are smaller than the length of the target along the direction of motion. Conclusion: An algorithm is developed to optimize dose in 4D. Besides IMRT that provides optimal dose coverage for a stationary target, it extends dose optimization to 4D considering target motion. This algorithm provides alternative to motion management techniques such as beam-gating or breath-holding and has potential applications in adaptive radiation therapy.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2026

Electric Utility Distribution Costs: Scoping Study on Trends, Drivers, and Possible Response Strategies [Slides]

This scoping study synthesizes information that will help stakeholders understand the scope, scale, and drivers of recent increases in investor-owned utility (IOU) expenditures on local distribution power grids, while providing regulators and other decision-makers with potential strategies to keep electricity bills down. The study includes five distinct components. Drawing first on data from FERC Form 1, it summarizes key trends in past and recent IOU distribution costs. Next, through a review of a sample of distribution-system plans, it characterizes material drivers of planned distribution expenditures. Ultimately, regulators must approve cost recovery for IOU expenditures, including those for the distribution system. The study therefore also: examines trends in utility requests and regulatory approvals related to changes in retail rates and return on equity; identifies areas where utility shareholder and customer incentives may be misaligned; and develops a menu of options that state regulators might consider to optimize distribution system expenditures. Some of the key findings include: - IOU distribution spending at a national level has grown by 6%/yr since 2014 in real dollar terms, 4x faster than in the prior 20 years and consisting mostly of capital (not operating) expenditure. - On a per-kWh basis, increases in IOU distribution costs since 2014 represent over 30% of the overall national-average increase in retail electricity rates. - Regional spending growth has ranged from 2-8%/yr, with larger estimated rate impacts in CAISO, then NYISO & ISO-NE, and then the Southeast, MISO & PJM (see figure). - Some utilities are planning for significantly increased distribution system spending. Planned spending on managing the existing system (asset replacement, safety & reliability, and resilience are all important drivers) exceeds that for capacity expansion. - IOU rate increase requests ($18 billion in 2025) and public utility commission (PUC) approval levels (average of 64% of requested amounts from 2021-2025) have recently hit multi-decadal highs. - PUCs in New England and the Southeast have recently approved a greater fraction of rate requests (>75%, on average) than in ther regions, while PUCs in California and the Southeast have generally authorized higher equity returns than in other regions. - Regulators have many tools to tackle potential misalignments between utility and customer interests and, more specifically, to optimize and reduce distribution costs. Shorter-term options include those related to return on equity, capital structure, depreciation, trackers, construction work in progress, and securitization. Longer-term options include performance-based regulation and a wide variety of planning-related requirements. All options embed important tradeoffs.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2016

THE INTRINSIC EDDINGTON RATIO DISTRIBUTION OF ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI IN STAR-FORMING GALAXIES FROM THE SLOAN DIGITAL SKY SURVEY

An important question in extragalactic astronomy concerns the distribution of black hole accretion rates of active galactic nuclei (AGNs). Based on observations at X-ray wavelengths, the observed Eddington ratio distribution appears as a power law, while optical studies have often yielded a lognormal distribution. There is increasing evidence that these observed discrepancies may be due to contamination by star formation and other selection effects. Using a sample of galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7, we test whether or not an intrinsic Eddington ratio distribution that takes the form of a Schechter function is consistent with previous work suggesting that young galaxies in optical surveys have an observed lognormal Eddington ratio distribution. We simulate the optical emission line properties of a population of galaxies and AGNs using a broad, instantaneous luminosity distribution described by a Schechter function near the Eddington limit. This simulated AGN population is then compared to observed galaxies via their positions on an emission line excitation diagram and Eddington ratio distributions. We present an improved method for extracting the AGN distribution using BPT diagnostics that allows us to probe over one order of magnitude lower in Eddington ratio, counteracting the effects of dilution by star formation. We conclude that for optically selected AGNs in young galaxies, the intrinsic Eddington ratio distribution is consistent with a possibly universal, broad power law with an exponential cutoff, as this distribution is observed in old, optically selected galaxies and X-rays.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2017

LOG-NORMAL DISTRIBUTION OF COSMIC VOIDS IN SIMULATIONS AND MOCKS

Following up on previous studies, we complete here a full analysis of the void size distributions of the Cosmic Void Catalog based on three different simulation and mock catalogs: dark matter (DM), haloes, and galaxies. Based on this analysis, we attempt to answer two questions: Is a three-parameter log-normal distribution a good candidate to satisfy the void size distributions obtained from different types of environments? Is there a direct relation between the shape parameters of the void size distribution and the environmental effects? In an attempt to answer these questions, we find here that all void size distributions of these data samples satisfy the three-parameter log-normal distribution whether the environment is dominated by DM, haloes, or galaxies. In addition, the shape parameters of the three-parameter log-normal void size distribution seem highly affected by environment, particularly existing substructures. Therefore, we show two quantitative relations given by linear equations between the skewness and the maximum tree depth, and between the variance of the void size distribution and the maximum tree depth, directly from the simulated data. In addition to this, we find that the percentage of voids with nonzero central density in the data sets has a critical importance. If the number of voids with nonzero central density reaches ≥3.84% in a simulation/mock sample, then a second population is observed in the void size distributions. This second population emerges as a second peak in the log-normal void size distribution at larger radius.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2011

Finding a Minimally Informative Dirichlet Prior Distribution Using Least Squares

In a Bayesian framework, the Dirichlet distribution is the conjugate distribution to the multinomial likelihood function, and so the analyst is required to develop a Dirichlet prior that incorporates available information. However, as it is a multiparameter distribution, choosing the Dirichlet parameters is less straight-forward than choosing a prior distribution for a single parameter, such as p in the binomial distribution. In particular, one may wish to incorporate limited information into the prior, resulting in a minimally informative prior distribution that is responsive to updates with sparse data. In the case of binomial p or Poisson, the principle of maximum entropy can be employed to obtain a so-called constrained noninformative prior. However, even in the case of p, such a distribution cannot be written down in closed form, and so an approximate beta distribution is used in the case of p. In the case of the multinomial model with parametric constraints, the approach of maximum entropy does not appear tractable. This paper presents an alternative approach, based on constrained minimization of a least-squares objective function, which leads to a minimally informative Dirichlet prior distribution. The alpha-factor model for common-cause failure, which is widely used in the United States, is the motivation for this approach, and is used to illustrate the method. In this approach to modeling common-cause failure, the alpha-factors, which are the parameters in the underlying multinomial aleatory model for common-cause failure, must be estimated from data that is often quite sparse, because common-cause failures tend to be rare, especially failures of more than two or three components, and so a prior distribution that is responsive to updates with sparse data is needed.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗
DOE OSTI2010

DARK MATTER DISTRIBUTION IN GALAXY GROUPS FROM COMBINED STRONG LENSING AND DYNAMICS ANALYSIS

Using a combined analysis of strong lensing and galaxy dynamics, we characterize the mass distributions and the mass-to-light (M/L) ratios of galaxy groups, virialized structures in the mass range of few x 10{sup 14} M{sub sun}, which form an important transition regime in the hierarchical assembly of mass in {Lambda}CDM cosmology. Our goals are to not only map the mass distributions, but to also test whether the underlying density distribution at this mass scale is dark matter dominated, Navarro-Frenk-White (NFW) like as hypothesized by the standard cosmogony, or isothermal as observed in baryon-rich massive field galaxies. We present details of our lensing + galaxy dynamics formalism built around three representative density profiles, the dark matter dominant NFW and Hernquist distributions, compared with the softened isothermal sphere which matches baryon-rich galaxy scale objects. By testing the effects on the characteristics of these distributions due to variations in their parameters, we show that mass measurements in the core of the group (r/r{sub vir} {approx} 0.2), determined jointly from a lens model and from differential velocity dispersion estimates, may effectively distinguish between these density distributions. We apply our method to multi-object spectroscopy observations of two groups, SL2SJ143000+554648 and SL2SJ143139+553323, drawn from our catalog of galaxy group scale lenses discovered in CFHTLS-Wide imaging. With the lensing and dynamical mass estimates from our observations along with a maximum likelihood estimator built around our model, we estimate the concentration index characterizing each density distribution and the corresponding virial mass of each group. Our likelihood estimation indicates that both groups are dark matter dominant and rejects the isothermal distribution at >>3{sigma} level. For both groups, the estimated i-band M/L ratios of {approx}260 M{sub sun} L{sub sun} {sup -1} are similar to other published values for groups. The Gaussian distribution of the velocities of their member galaxies supports a high degree of virialization. The differences in their virial masses, 2.8 and 1.6 x 10{sup 14} M{sub sun}, and velocity dispersions, 720 and 560 km s{sup -1}, may indicate however that each group is at a different stage of transition to a cluster. We aim to populate this important transition regime with additional results from ongoing observations of the remaining lensing groups in our catalog.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2012

THE DEPENDENCE OF PRESTELLAR CORE MASS DISTRIBUTIONS ON THE STRUCTURE OF THE PARENTAL CLOUD

The mass distribution of prestellar cores is obtained for clouds with arbitrary internal mass distributions using a selection criterion based on the thermal and turbulent Jeans mass and applied hierarchically from small to large scales. We have checked this methodology by comparing our results for a log-normal density probability distribution function with the theoretical core mass function (CMF) derived by Hennebelle and Chabrier, namely a power law at large scales and a log-normal cutoff at low scales, but our method can be applied to any mass distributions representing a star-forming cloud. This methodology enables us to connect the parental cloud structure with the mass distribution of the cores and their spatial distribution, providing an efficient tool for investigating the physical properties of the molecular clouds that give rise to the prestellar core distributions observed. Simulated fractional Brownian motion (fBm) clouds with the Hurst exponent close to the value H = 1/3 give the best agreement with the theoretical CMF derived by Hennebelle and Chabrier and Chabrier's system initial mass function. Likewise, the spatial distribution of the cores derived from our methodology shows a surface density of companions compatible with those observed in Trapezium and Ophiucus star-forming regions. This method also allows us to analyze the properties of the mass distribution of cores for different realizations. We found that the variations in the number of cores formed in different realizations of fBm clouds (with the same Hurst exponent) are much larger than the expected root N statistical fluctuations, increasing with H.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2021

Preparing Distribution Utilities for the Future - Evolving Customer Consumption in Renewable Rich Grids: A Novel Analytical Framework

The research collaboration between NREL and BYPL focuses on the challenges caused by renewable integration into the power grid at large. Since the challenges and opportunities vary depending on the point of interconnection (distribution or transmission) the research team identified two tracks for research as listed below: 1. Power procurement - This research track focuses on the challenges and opportunities caused by GW scale renewable integration at the transmission level. Specifically, this track focuses on the contribution that utility-scale renewable energy procurement provides to distribution utilities, both from energy and capacity perspectives. In this track of research, utility customers are only considered as traditional (one-directional) consumers of energy. 2. Distributed energy resources - This research track focuses on the challenges and opportunities caused by many small-scale distributed renewable resource integrations at the distribution systems. At the power distribution level, distribution utilities may face not only new solar energy technologies, but also battery energy storage and electric vehicles as well. These three technologies (solar PV, battery energy storage, and electric vehicles) combined, pose unique challenges to distribution utilities. This track focuses on assessing the net-load evolution that distribution utilities observe as these emerging technologies make their way to the grid.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗