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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 955 records · Page 53
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2021

Comparison of private flux region instability in conventional and super-X divertor configurations

Understanding turbulence in the divertor leg of tokamaks is essential to predicting the heat deposition profile on the divertor plate. This in turn is important for evaluating advanced divertor configurations, such as the super-X divertor. Within the divertor region, the private flux region is of interest because it is relatively unaffected by turbulence extending from the outboard midplane, so instabilities in this region could have a particularly pronounced effect on transport. These instabilities are modeled using the Arbitrary Topology Equation Reader (ArbiTER) eigenvalue code. Eigenmodes are examined further by comparing physics models to determine the fundamental mechanisms behind their formation, and quantifying the effect of individual terms. This analysis is conducted on both conventional and super-X divertors to compare these effects. Here, the resulting analysis reveals the presence of a geodesic curvature driven instability that is significantly more pronounced in the super-X configuration.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

A three-dimensional laser ray-tracing methodology for radiation-hydrodynamics simulations

We report on a methodology for performing laser ray-tracing in three spatial dimensions for radiation-hydrodynamics simulation codes. Our method, which is an extension of that developed in Haines et al., Comput. Fluids 201, 104478 (2020), utilizes an automatically generated separate mesh for the laser ray-tracing from the radiation-hydrodynamics mesh. This enables the laser mesh to be tailored to minimize ray noise with significantly fewer rays than would be required when the ray-tracing is performed on the radiation-hydrodynamics mesh, primarily by allowing the use of high-aspect-ratio cells that are not suitable for hydrodynamics solvers. For a planar target, we show that our method provides a ≈ 100× reduction in computational expense to achieve a fixed level of ray noise relative to ray-tracing directly on the radiation-hydrodynamics mesh. The relatively low ray requirement also enables efficient computation of cross-beam energy transfer. Each cell in the logically cubic laser mesh is a non-convex dodecahedron with triangular sides, and numerical integration of the ray trajectories and inverse bremsstrahlung is performed by mapping each cell to the unit cube. We will describe our methodology in detail as well as its implementation in the xRAGE radiation-hydrodynamics code, discuss performance, and present the results from applying the methodology to test problems with analytic solutions for laser ray-tracing through a quadratic density gradient with an analytic solution as well as for a laser-driven heat front. In 3D radiation-hydrodynamics simulations of laser-driven experiments performed on the National Ignition Facility, laser ray-tracing with our methodology uses less than 1% of total computational time while introducing acceptably low levels of ray noise.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Laser wavelength dependence of particle acceleration mechanisms in high intensity laser–solid density plasma interactions

We investigate the generation of relativistic electrons and the subsequent ion acceleration due to target-normal sheath acceleration when ultra-intense (⁠ I > 10 18 W/cm 2 ⁠) short pulse (⁠ τ L < 10ps⁠) lasers are incident onto solid density targets as laser wavelength is varied. Scaling laws for the hot electron temperature, T hot ⁠, and the maximum ion energy, E max ⁠, are recast as a function of laser wavelength. These predictions are compared to results from particle-in-cell computer simulations in a variety of geometries, including cases where realistic plasma density profiles as determined by a radiation hydrodynamics code are used. It is found that the wavelength dependence observed in simulation is less pronounced than what is predicted from the well-established scaling laws. An assessment of how switching to longer laser wavelengths, specifically 2 μm Tm:YLF technology, would impact current high energy density science applications and diagnostics is made.

Electromagnetism↗
DOE OSTI2012

Descent theory for semiorthogonal decompositions

We put forward a method for constructing semiorthogonal decompositions of the derived category of G-equivariant sheaves on a variety X under the assumption that the derived category of sheaves on X admits a semiorthogonal decomposition with components preserved by the action of the group G on X. This method is used to obtain semiorthogonal decompositions of equivariant derived categories for projective bundles and blow-ups with a smooth centre as well as for varieties with a full exceptional collection preserved by the group action. Our main technical tool is descent theory for derived categories. Bibliography: 12 titles.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2014

Covering sets in R{sup m}

The paper investigates questions related to Borsuk's classical problem of partitioning a set in Euclidean space into subsets of smaller diameter, as well as to the well-known Nelson-Erdős-Hadwiger problem on the chromatic number of a Euclidean space. The results of the work are obtained using combinatorial and geometric methods alike. A new approach to the investigation of such problems is suggested; it leads to a collection of results which significantly improve all results known so far. Bibliography: 58 titles.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2016

Projective toric polynomial generators in the unitary cobordism ring

According to Milnor and Novikov's classical result, the unitary cobordism ring is isomorphic to a graded polynomial ring with countably many generators: Ω{sub ∗}{sup U}≃Z[a{sub 1},a{sub 2},…], deg(a{sub i})=2i. In this paper we solve the well-known problem of constructing geometric representatives for the a{sub i} among smooth projective toric varieties, a{sub n}=[X{sup n}], dim{sub C} X{sup n}=n. Our proof uses a family of equivariant modifications (birational isomorphisms) B{sub k}(X)→X of an arbitrary complex manifold X of complex dimension n (n≥2, k=0,…,n−2). The key fact is that the change of the Milnor number under these modifications depends only on the dimension n and the number k and does not depend on the manifold X itself. Bibliography: 22 titles. (paper)

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2017

Eigenvector centrality for geometric and topological characterization of porous media

Solving flow and transport through complex geometries such as porous media is computationally difficult. Such calculations usually involve the solution of a system of discretized differential equations, which could lead to extreme computational cost depending on the size of the domain and the accuracy of the model. Geometric simplifications like pore-networks, where the pores are represented by nodes and pore throats by edges connecting pores, have been proposed. These models, despite their ability to preserve the connectivity of the medium, have difficulties in capturing preferential paths (high velocity) and stagnation zones (low velocity) as they do not consider the specific relations between nodes. Nonetheless, network theory approaches, where a complex network is a graph, can help to simplify and better understand fluid dynamics and transport in porous media. Here we present a novel method to address these issues based on eigenvector centrality, which has been corrected to overcome the centralization problem, and modified to introduce a bias in the centrality distribution along a particular direction to address the flow and transport anisotropy in porous media. We compare the model predictions with millifluidic transport experiments, which shows that, albeit simple, this technique is computationally efficient and has potential for predicting preferential paths and stagnation zones for flow and transport in porous media. We propose to use eigenvector centrality probability distribution to compute entropy as an indicator of the ‘mixing capacity’ of the system.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2011

A dedicated cone-beam CT system for musculoskeletal extremities imaging: Design, optimization, and initial performance characterization

Purpose: This paper reports on the design and initial imaging performance of a dedicated cone-beam CT (CBCT) system for musculoskeletal (MSK) extremities. The system complements conventional CT and MR and offers a variety of potential clinical and logistical advantages that are likely to be of benefit to diagnosis, treatment planning, and assessment of therapy response in MSK radiology, orthopaedic surgery, and rheumatology. Methods: The scanner design incorporated a host of clinical requirements (e.g., ability to scan the weight-bearing knee in a natural stance) and was guided by theoretical and experimental analysis of image quality and dose. Such criteria identified the following basic scanner components and system configuration: a flat-panel detector (FPD, Varian 3030+, 0.194 mm pixels); and a low-power, fixed anode x-ray source with 0.5 mm focal spot (SourceRay XRS-125-7K-P, 0.875 kW) mounted on a retractable C-arm allowing for two scanning orientations with the capability for side entry, viz. a standing configuration for imaging of weight-bearing lower extremities and a sitting configuration for imaging of tensioned upper extremity and unloaded lower extremity. Theoretical modeling employed cascaded systems analysis of modulation transfer function (MTF) and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) computed as a function of system geometry, kVp and filtration, dose, source power, etc. Physical experimentation utilized an imaging bench simulating the scanner geometry for verification of theoretical results and investigation of other factors, such as antiscatter grid selection and 3D image quality in phantom and cadaver, including qualitative comparison to conventional CT. Results: Theoretical modeling and benchtop experimentation confirmed the basic suitability of the FPD and x-ray source mentioned above. Clinical requirements combined with analysis of MTF and DQE yielded the following system geometry: a {approx}55 cm source-to-detector distance; 1.3 magnification; a 20 cm diameter bore (20 x 20 x 20 cm{sup 3} field of view); total acquisition arc of {approx}240 deg. The system MTF declines to 50% at {approx}1.3 mm{sup -1} and to 10% at {approx}2.7 mm{sup -1}, consistent with sub-millimeter spatial resolution. Analysis of DQE suggested a nominal technique of 90 kVp (+0.3 mm Cu added filtration) to provide high imaging performance from {approx}500 projections at less than {approx}0.5 kW power, implying {approx}6.4 mGy (0.064 mSv) for low-dose protocols and {approx}15 mGy (0.15 mSv) for high-quality protocols. The experimental studies show improved image uniformity and contrast-to-noise ratio (without increase in dose) through incorporation of a custom 10:1 GR antiscatter grid. Cadaver images demonstrate exquisite bone detail, visualization of articular morphology, and soft-tissue visibility comparable to diagnostic CT (10-20 HU contrast resolution). Conclusions: The results indicate that the proposed system will deliver volumetric images of the extremities with soft-tissue contrast resolution comparable to diagnostic CT and improved spatial resolution at potentially reduced dose. Cascaded systems analysis provided a useful basis for system design and optimization without costly repeated experimentation. A combined process of design specification, image quality analysis, clinical feedback, and revision yielded a prototype that is now awaiting clinical pilot studies. Potential advantages of the proposed system include reduced space and cost, imaging of load-bearing extremities, and combined volumetric imaging with real-time fluoroscopy and digital radiography.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗
DOE OSTI2014

SU-D-12A-04: Investigation of a 2D Antiscatter Grid for Flat Panel Detectors

Purpose: To improve CT number accuracy and contrast sensitivity, a novel 2D antiscatter grid (ASG) for flat panel detector (FPD) based CBCT imaging was evaluated. Experiments were performed to characterize the scatter rejection and contrast sensitivity performance of ASG. The reduction in primary transmission for various ASG geometries was also evaluated by a computational model. Methods: The 2D ASG design was based on multi-hole collimators used in Nuclear Medicine. It consisted of abutted hexagon shaped apertures with 2.5 mm pitch and 32 mm height, and separated by 0.25 mm thick lead septa. Scatter-to-primary ratio (SPR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and mean primary transmission were measured using a benchtop FPD/x-ray source system. Acrylic slabs of varying thicknesses were imaged with a contrast-detail phantom to measure CNR and SPR under different scatter conditions. Primary transmission was also measured by averaging pixel values in flood field images without the phantom. We additionally explored variation of primary transmission with pitch and septum thickness using a computational model of our ASG. Results: Our 2D ASG reduced the SPR from 3.3 to 0.12, and improved CNR by 50% in 20 cm thick slab phantom projections acquired at 120 kVp. While the measured primary transmission was 72.8%, our simulations show that primary transmission can be increased to 86% by reducing the septum thickness to 0.1 mm. Primary transmission further increases to 93% if septum thickness of 0.1 mm is used in conjunction with an increased pitch of 4 mm. Conclusion: The 2D ASG appears to be a promising scatter rejection device, offering both superior scatter rejection and improved contrast sensitivity. Though its lead footprint reduced primary transmission, our work shows that optimization of aperture pitch and septum thickness can significantly improve the primary transmission.

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES↗
DOE OSTI2016

SU-F-T-476: Performance of the AS1200 EPID for Periodic Photon Quality Assurance

Purpose: To assess the dosimetric performance of a new amorphous silicon flat-panel electronic portal imaging device (EPID) suitable for high-intensity, flattening-filter-free delivery mode. Methods: An EPID-based QA suite was created with automation to periodically monitor photon central-axis output and two-dimensional beam profile constancy as a function of gantry angle and dose-rate. A Varian TrueBeamTM linear accelerator installed with Developer Mode was used to customize and deliver XML script routines for the QA suite using the dosimetry mode image acquisition for an aS1200 EPID. Automatic post-processing software was developed to analyze the resulting DICOM images. Results: The EPID was used to monitor photon beam output constancy (central-axis), flatness, and symmetry over a period of 10 months for four photon beam energies (6x, 15x, 6xFFF, and 10xFFF). EPID results were consistent to those measured with a standard daily QA check device. At the four cardinal gantry angles, the standard deviation of the EPID central-axis output was <0.5%. Likewise, EPID measurements were independent for the wide range of dose rates (including up to 2400 mu/min for 10xFFF) studied with a standard deviation of <0.8% relative to the nominal dose rate for each energy. Also, profile constancy and field size measurements showed good agreement with the reference acquisition of 0° gantry angle and nominal dose rate. XML script files were also tested for MU linearity and picket-fence delivery. Using Developer Mode, the test suite was delivered in <60 minutes for all 4 photon energies with 4 dose rates per energy and 5 picket-fence acquisitions. Conclusion: Dosimetry image acquisition using a new EPID was found to be accurate for standard and high-intensity photon beams over a broad range of dose rates over 10 months. Developer Mode provided an efficient platform to customize the EPID acquisitions by using custom script files which significantly reduced the time. This work was funded in part by Varian Medical Systems.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2016

SU-F-T-493: An Investigation Into the Feasibility of Using PipsPro Software with Film for Linac QA

Purpose: To determine the feasibility of using radiochromic and radiographic film with Pipspro software for quality assurance of linear accelerators with no on-board imaging. Methods: The linear accelerator being used is a Varian Clinac 21EX. All IGRT is performed using the BrainLab ExacTrac system. Because of the lack of on board imaging, certain monthly and annual TG-142 quality assurance tests are more difficult to perform and analyze to a high degree of accuracy. Pipspro was not designed to be used with hard film, and to our knowledge its use with film had not been investigated. The film used will be GafChromic EBT3 film and Kodak EDR2 film, scanned with an Epson V700 scanner. The following routine tests will be attempted: MLC picket fence, light vs. radiation field coincidence, starshots, and MLC transmission. Results: The only tests that gave accurate and reliable results were the couch, gantry, and collimator starshots. Typical MV and kV images are acquired with a much higher level of contrast between the irradiated and non-irradiated areas when compared to film. Pipspro relies on this level of contrast to be able to automatically detect the fiducial points from its phantom devices, leaf edges for picket fence and transmission tests, and jaw edges for light vs. radiation field tests. Because of this, certain tests gave erroneous results and others were not able to be performed in the software at all, with either type of film. The number of monitor units delivered to the film, the experimental setup, and the scan settings was not able to rectify the problem. Conclusion: For linear accelerators with no on-board imaging, it is not recommended to use hard film with PipsPro to perform TG-142 quality assurance tests. Other software or methods should instead be investigated.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2021

On the prescription of boundary conditions for nonlocal Poisson's and peridynamics models

We introduce a technique to automatically convert local boundary conditions into nonlocal volume constraints for nonlocal Poisson’s and peridynamic models. The proposed strategy is based on the approximation of nonlocal Dirichlet or Neumann data with a local solution obtained by using available boundary, local data. The corresponding nonlocal solution converges quadratically to the local solution as the nonlocal horizon vanishes, making the proposed technique asymptotically compatible. The proposed conversion method does not have any geometry or dimensionality constraints and its computational cost is negligible, compared to the numerical solution of the nonlocal equation. The consistency of the method and its quadratic convergence with respect to the horizon is illustrated by several two-dimensional numerical experiments conducted by meshfree discretization for both the Poisson’s problem and the linear peridynamic solid model.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2026

Singlet Fission

This report summarizes key findings from DOE Award DE‑SC0007004 – Singlet Fission, documenting more than a decade of research led by Professor Josef Michl. The project advanced foundational understanding of singlet fission (SF) through integrated synthetic, spectroscopic, crystallographic, and computational studies. Across a diverse set of chromophores—including tetracenes, cibalackrot derivatives, BODIPY dimers, TDPPs, and fluorinated isobenzofurans—the team identified structural and packing features that enable or inhibit SF, clarified the roles of charge‑transfer intermediates and excimer formation, and developed simplified theoretical models and computational screening tools for predicting optimal geometries and excited‑state-energetics. The work significantly broadened design principles for SF‑active materials and provided insights relevant to next‑generation solar energy conversion and molecular photophysics.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
NASA NTRS1975

Improved solution for potential flow about arbitrary axisymmetric bodies by the use of a higher-order surface source method

An investigation is conducted of a case of axisymmetric bodies in which the application of main interest is an inlet, possibly with centerbody and ring vanes. The technique employed makes use of curved surface elements and a source density which varies over the element. Such an approach is designated a higher-order implementation. Questions of surface element geometry are discussed along with the computation of the induced velocity matrices and the organization of the calculation. The calculated results are compared with analytic solutions.

Hess, J. L.↗