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At least 955 records · Page 53

Lower limits for non-radiative recombination loss in organic donor/acceptor complexes

Understanding the factors controlling radiative and non-radiative transition rates for charge transfer states in organic systems is important for applications ranging from organic photovoltaics (OPV) to lasers and LEDs. Here we explore the role of charge-transfer (CT) energetics, lifetimes, and photovoltaic properties in the limit of very slow non-radiative rates by using a model donor/acceptor system with photoluminescence dominated by thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). This blend exhibits an extremely high photoluminescence quantum efficiency (PLQY = ~22%) and comparatively long PL lifetime, while simultaneously yielding appreciable amounts of free charge generation (photocurrent external quantum efficiency EQE of 24%). In solar cells, this blend exhibits non-radiative voltage losses of only ~0.1 V, among the lowest reported for an organic system. Notably, we find that the non-radiative decay rate, k nr , is on the order of 10 5 s -1 , approximately 4–5 orders of magnitude slower than typical OPV blends, thereby confirming that high radiative efficiency and low non-radiative voltage losses are achievable by reducing k nr . Furthermore, despite the high radiative efficiency and already comparatively slow k nr , we find that k nr is nevertheless much faster than predicted by Marcus–Levich–Jortner two-state theory and we conclude that CT-local exciton (LE) hybridization is present. Our findings highlight that it is crucial to evaluate how radiative and non-radiative rates of the LE states individually influence the PLQY of charge-transfer states, rather than solely focusing on the PLQY of the LE. This conclusion will guide material selection in achieving low non-radiative voltage loss in organic solar cells and high luminescence efficiency in organic LEDs.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

An Overview of Prognosis Health Management Research at Glenn Research Center for Gas Turbine Engine Structures With Special Emphasis on Deformation and Damage Modeling

Herein a general, multimechanism, physics-based viscoelastoplastic model is presented in the context of an integrated diagnosis and prognosis methodology which is proposed for structural health monitoring, with particular applicability to gas turbine engine structures. In this methodology, diagnostics and prognostics will be linked through state awareness variable(s). Key technologies which comprise the proposed integrated approach include (1) diagnostic/detection methodology, (2) prognosis/lifing methodology, (3) diagnostic/prognosis linkage, (4) experimental validation, and (5) material data information management system. A specific prognosis lifing methodology, experimental characterization and validation and data information management are the focal point of current activities being pursued within this integrated approach. The prognostic lifing methodology is based on an advanced multimechanism viscoelastoplastic model which accounts for both stiffness and/or strength reduction damage variables. Methods to characterize both the reversible and irreversible portions of the model are discussed. Once the multiscale model is validated the intent is to link it to appropriate diagnostic methods to provide a full-featured structural health monitoring system.

Arnold, Steven M.↗

An Overview of Prognosis Health Management Research at Glenn Research Center for Gas Turbine Engine Structures With Special Emphasis on Deformation and Damage Modeling

Herein a general, multimechanism, physics-based viscoelastoplastic model is presented in the context of an integrated diagnosis and prognosis methodology which is proposed for structural health monitoring, with particular applicability to gas turbine engine structures. In this methodology, diagnostics and prognostics will be linked through state awareness variable(s). Key technologies which comprise the proposed integrated approach include (1) diagnostic/detection methodology, (2) prognosis/lifing methodology, (3) diagnostic/prognosis linkage, (4) experimental validation, and (5) material data information management system. A specific prognosis lifing methodology, experimental characterization and validation and data information management are the focal point of current activities being pursued within this integrated approach. The prognostic lifing methodology is based on an advanced multimechanism viscoelastoplastic model which accounts for both stiffness and/or strength reduction damage variables. Methods to characterize both the reversible and irreversible portions of the model are discussed. Once the multiscale model is validated the intent is to link it to appropriate diagnostic methods to provide a full-featured structural health monitoring system.

Arnold, Steven M.↗

Instabilities and phase transitions in architected metamaterials: a gradient-enhanced continuum approach

Architected metamaterials such as foams and lattices exhibit a wide range of properties governed by microstructural instabilities and emerging phase transitions. Their macroscopic response–including energy dissipation during impact, large recoverable deformations, morphing between configurations, and auxetic behavior–remains difficult to capture with conventional continuum models, which often rely on discrete approaches that limit scalability. In this work, we propose a nonlocal continuum formulation that captures both stable and unstable responses of elastic architected metamaterials. The framework extends anisotropic hyperelasticity by introducing nonlocal variables and internal length scales reflective of microstructural features. Local polyconvex free-energy models are systematically augmented with two families of non-(poly)convex energies, enabling both metastable and bistable responses. Implementation in a finite element framework enables solution using a hybrid monolithic–staggered strategy. Simulations capture densification fronts, forward and reverse transitions, hysteresis loops, imperfection sensitivity, and globally coordinated auxetic modes. Overall, this framework provides a robust foundation for accelerated modeling of instability-driven phenomena in architected metamaterials, while enabling extensions to anisotropic, dissipative, and active systems as well as integration with data-driven and machine learning approaches.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Survey of Relevant Data from the MSRP to Guide Development of MSR Chemistry Modeling Benchmarks

The Multiphysics Applications technical area of the Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) program is tasked with assessing, demonstrating, and applying NEAMS tools in solving multiphysics problems of nuclear reactors, such as liquid-fueled molten salt reactors (MSRs), which are the focus of this report. MSRs are actively being pursued as a potential candidate for power and heat generation by the nuclear industry. However, the inherent multiphysics nature of liquid-fueled MSRs, stemming from the strong interrelationship of neutronics, thermal fluids, and chemistry phenomena, provides unique challenges in modeling and simulation (mod/sim). Therefore, it will be important to develop mod/sim tools with varying types of multiphysics coupling that depend on the problem. The current work is focused on the initiation and development of MSR chemistry modeling benchmarks useful for validating current and potential future NEAMS tools. Development of such benchmarks include the following actions: 1) Summarize available chemistry data from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) MSR Program (MSRP) including operation of the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) and design studies for the Molten Salt Breeder Reactor (MSBR) concept; 2) Recommend simulation problems in MSR chemistry mod/sim based on (1); 3) Assess the current state of NEAMS tools that may support (2); 4) Demonstrate and validate the capabilities of the NEAMS tools in (3) while providing iterative feedback on future code development activities. The objective of this report is to initiate this effort by completing actions (1) and (2), which are discussed in Section 2. An overview of the relevant available MSRE experimental data is provided with examples of how this data may be useful in chemistry mod/sim problems, with the caveat that most of this data is over 50 years old, therefore some problem details as well as uncertainty estimates are often not provided. In Section 3, the current state of NEAMS tools is assessed for potential use in these mod/sim problems, with considerations for future code development activities, supporting action (3). Future work supporting this project under NEAMS may include a deeper dive into the specific phenomena discussed here including tasks such as the compilation of additional available data, updates in code development activities, and ultimately the demonstration and validation of these tools, supporting action (4).

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

Constituent-Based Life Models Being Developed for SiC/SiC Composites

For the successful utilization of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) as hot-section components in advanced aeropropulsion engines, the CMC constituents will need to be tailored and optimized to meet all the critical property demands of each component. Under the High-Speed Research (HSR) and Advanced High-Temperature Engine Materials Technology (HITEMP) Programs, the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field initiated research to develop mechanistic models for key CMC thermostructural properties. These models would describe the effects of different constituent factors (composition, geometry, and volume fraction) and of potential application conditions (stress, time, temperature, and environment) on these properties. Particular focus was placed on both analytical and numerical modeling of state-of-the-art SiC/SiC composites where the primary load-bearing constituents are stoichiometric SiC fibers in a complex multiphase SiC matrix produced by chemical vapor infiltration and melt infiltration. Recent studies have resulted in computer-based numerical models for the elastic modulus, thermal expansion, and thermal conductivity properties of the SiC/SiC system. Additional studies have generated analytical and empirical models for the time dependence of composite rupture strength at temperatures above 2200 F (1200 C), where CMC's have an important thermostructural advantage over current nickel-based superalloys. These life models utilize thermal activation theory and fiber stress-rupture results measured at Glenn to generate Larson-Miller (L M) plots of fiber rupture strength versus q, a single time- and temperature-dependent parameter. Assuming a worse case in which the SiC matrix is cracked, rupture is then controlled by the time-dependent fracture characteristics of the fiber bundles bridging the matrix cracks. With this as the controlling mechanism, one can then use simple composite theory and the fiber L M plots to predict CMC rupture strength versus the q parameter. The dashed line shows the predicted rupture strength of a SiC/SiC composite that is reinforced by a state-of-the-art stoichiometric SiC fiber. For the q parameter, time is in hours and temperature in degrees kelvin. To generate these predictions, a two-dimensional 0 /90 composite with approximately 16 percent fiber in the applied stress direction and an air test environment were assumed. As such, it is possible to compare the model predictions against limited stress-rupture data for this CMC as shown by the data points. The good agreement confirms the rupture model at least for the selected CMC and test conditions. Thus for this particular SiC/SiC composite, one can estimate a 1000-hr rupture strength of approximately 12 ksi at 2400 F (T = 1588 K and q = 39 700 K). At lower CMC application stresses, the SiC matrix is typically uncracked, so both the fiber and matrix constituents share the composite load. In this case, CMC rupture is controlled by the constituent with the longest rupture time based on the creep rate of the composite. Measured Monkman-Grant plots of rupture time versus creep rate for the two SiC constituents have been used to develop CMC life models for this important application condition. NASA and DOD are currently using this information to establish application and material goals for more advanced CMC's that can be used at even higher temperatures.

DiCarlo, James A.↗

An Overview of Prognosis Health Management Research at GRC for Gas Turbine Engine Structures With Special Emphasis on Deformation and Damage Modeling

Herein a general, multimechanism, physics-based viscoelastoplastic model is presented in the context of an integrated diagnosis and prognosis methodology which is proposed for structural health monitoring, with particular applicability to gas turbine engine structures. In this methodology, diagnostics and prognostics will be linked through state awareness variable(s). Key technologies which comprise the proposed integrated approach include 1) diagnostic/detection methodology, 2) prognosis/lifing methodology, 3) diagnostic/prognosis linkage, 4) experimental validation and 5) material data information management system. A specific prognosis lifing methodology, experimental characterization and validation and data information management are the focal point of current activities being pursued within this integrated approach. The prognostic lifing methodology is based on an advanced multi-mechanism viscoelastoplastic model which accounts for both stiffness and/or strength reduction damage variables. Methods to characterize both the reversible and irreversible portions of the model are discussed. Once the multiscale model is validated the intent is to link it to appropriate diagnostic methods to provide a full-featured structural health monitoring system.

Arnold, Steven M.↗

Use of Dynamic Models and Operational Architecture to Solve Complex Navy Challenges

The United States Navy established 8 Maritime Operations Centers (MOC) to enhance the command and control of forces at the operational level of warfare. Each MOC is a headquarters manned by qualified joint operational-level staffs, and enabled by globally interoperable C41 systems. To assess and refine MOC staffing, equipment, and schedules, a dynamic software model was developed. The model leverages pre-existing operational process architecture, joint military task lists that define activities and their precedence relations, as well as Navy documents that specify manning and roles per activity. The software model serves as a "computational wind-tunnel" in which to test a MOC on a mission, and to refine its structure, staffing, processes, and schedules. More generally, the model supports resource allocation decisions concerning Doctrine, Organization, Training, Material, Leadership, Personnel and Facilities (DOTMLPF) at MOCs around the world. A rapid prototype effort efficiently produced this software in less than five months, using an integrated process team consisting of MOC military and civilian staff, modeling experts, and software developers. The work reported here was conducted for Commander, United States Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk, Virginia, code N5-0LW (Operational Level of War) that facilitates the identification, consolidation, and prioritization of MOC capabilities requirements, and implementation and delivery of MOC solutions.

Grande, Darby↗

Receiver willingness to participate in off-hour service programs

Service trips, a frequently overlooked segment of urban traffic, represent a disproportionately large share of the negative impacts associated with commercial activity. The reason is that although service trips are less frequent than freight trips, they often take longer and thus occupy a significant share of commercial parking. Demand management programs seeking to move service trips off-hours can potentially reduce congestion and emissions but they have been understudied. Here, this paper describes research conducted to investigate receivers’ willingness to participate in off-hour programs for planned service activity. The research reported in this paper analyzes results from a survey of 189 business establishments in New York City and the Capital Region in New York State using descriptive analyses of the data, and by estimating a discrete choice model to gain insight into how business characteristics influence willingness to participate in off-hour services. To assess the impacts of a hypothetical off-hour services program, the authors applied the discrete choice model, together with service trip attraction models, to quantify the hours of daytime parking that could be eliminated by the proposed program in certain ZIP Codes in New York City and the Albany area. The research conducted led to the identification of numerous policy implications that will help policymakers understand and maximize the potential benefits of implementing off-hour service programs.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

Sterically Encumbered Aryl Isocyanides Extend Excited-State Lifetimes and Improve the Photocatalytic Performance of Three-Coordinate Copper(I) β-Diketiminate Charge-Transfer Chromophores

Copper(I) complexes are prominent candidates to replace noble metal-based photosensitizers. We recently introduced a three-coordinate design for copper(I) charge-transfer chromophores that pair β-diketiminate ligands with aryl isocyanides. The excited-state lifetime in these compounds can be extended using a bichromophoric “triplet reservoir” strategy, which comes at the expense of a decrease in excited-state energy and reducing power. In this work, we introduce a complementary, sterically driven strategy for increasing the excited-state lifetimes of these photosensitizers, which gives a higher-energy, more strongly reducing charge-transfer triplet state than does the bichromophore approach. The compounds presented (Cu1–Cu4) have the general formula Cu(CyNacNac Me )(CN-Ar), where CyNacNac Me is a cyclohexyl-substituted β-diketiminate and CN-Ar is an aryl isocyanide with a variable steric profile. Their structural features and electrochemical and photophysical properties are described. The complexes with sterically encumbered 2,6-diisopropylphenyl or m-terphenyl isocyanide ligands (Cu2–Cu4) exhibit prolonged excited-state lifetimes relative to those of the parent 2,6-dimethylphenyl isocyanide compound Cu1. Specifically, one of the m-terphenyl isocyanide compounds, Cu3, displays an excited-state lifetime of 276 ns, approximately 30 times longer than that of Cu1 (9.3 ns). The photoluminescence quantum yield of Cu3 (0.09) also increases by two orders of magnitude compared to that of Cu1 (0.0008). Furthermore, the strong excited-state reducing power (*E ox = –2.4 V vs Fc +/0 ) and long lifetime of Cu3 lead to higher yields in photoredox and photocatalytic isomerization reactions, which include dehalogenation and/or hydrodgenation of benzophenone substrates, C–O bond activation of a lignin model substrate, and photocatalytic E/Z isomerization of stilbene.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

Mixed Valence {Ni 2+ Ni 1+ } Clusters as Models of Acetyl Coenzyme A Synthase Intermediates

Acetyl coenzyme A synthase (ACS) catalyzes the formation and deconstruction of the key biological metabolite, acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). The active site of ACS features a {NiNi} cluster bridged to a [Fe4S4] n+ cubane known as the A-cluster. The mechanism by which the A-cluster functions is debated, with few model complexes able to replicate the oxidation states, coordination features, or reactivity proposed in the catalytic cycle. In this work, we isolate the first bimetallic models of two hypothesized intermediates on the paramagnetic pathway of the ACS function. The heteroligated {Ni 2+ Ni 1+ } cluster, [K(12-crown-4) 2 ][1], effectively replicates the coordination number and oxidation state of the proposed “A red ” state of the A-cluster. Addition of carbon monoxide to [1] - allows for isolation of a dinuclear {Ni 2+ Ni 1+ (CO)} complex, [K(12-crown-2) n ][2] (n = 1–2), which bears similarity to the “A NiFeC ” enzyme intermediate. Structural and electronic properties of each cluster are elucidated by X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, cyclic voltammetry, and UV/vis and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopies, which are supplemented by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Calculations indicate that the pseudo-T-shaped geometry of the three-coordinate nickel in [1] – is more stable than the Y-conformation by 22 kcal mol –1 , and that binding of CO to Ni 1+ is barrierless and exergonic by 6 kcal mol –1 . UV/vis absorption spectroscopy on [2] - in conjunction with time-dependent DFT calculations indicates that the square-planar nickel site is involved in electron transfer to the CO π*-orbital. Further, we demonstrate that [2] - promotes thioester synthesis in a reaction analogous to the production of acetyl coenzyme A by ACS.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Fully quantum calculations of O 2 –N 2 scattering using a new potential energy surface: Collisional perturbations of the oxygen 118 GHz fine structure line

A proper description of the collisional perturbation of the shapes of molecular resonances is important for remote spectroscopic studies of the terrestrial atmosphere. Of particular relevance are the collisions between the $\text{O}_2$ and $\text{N}_2$ molecules—the two most abundant atmospheric species. In this work, we report a new highly accurate $\text{O}_2(\text{X}^3Σ^–_g)–\text{N}_2(\text{X}^1Σ^+_g)$ potential energy surface and use it for performing the first quantum scattering calculations addressing line shapes for this system. We use it to model the shape of the 118 GHz fine structure line in $\text{O}_2$ perturbed by collisions with $\text{N}_2$ molecules, a benchmark system for testing our methodology in the case of an active molecule in a spin triplet state. The calculated collisional broadening of the line agrees well with the available experimental data over a wide temperature range relevant for the terrestrial atmosphere. This work constitutes a step toward populating the spectroscopic databases with ab initio line shape parameters for atmospherically relevant systems.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Near-term tropical cyclone risk and coupled Earth system model biases

Most current climate models predict that the equatorial Pacific will evolve under greenhouse gas–induced warming to a more El Niño-like state over the next several decades, with a reduced zonal sea surface temperature gradient and weakened atmospheric Walker circulation. Yet, observations over the last 50 y show the opposite trend, toward a more La Niña-like state. Recent research provides evidence that the discrepancy cannot be dismissed as due to internal variability but rather that the models are incorrectly simulating the equatorial Pacific response to greenhouse gas warming. This implies that projections of regional tropical cyclone activity may be incorrect as well, perhaps even in the direction of change, in ways that can be understood by analogy to historical El Niño and La Niña events: North Pacific tropical cyclone projections will be too active, North Atlantic ones not active enough, for example. Other perils, including severe convective storms and droughts, will also be projected erroneously. While it can be argued that these errors are transient, such that the models’ responses to greenhouse gases may be correct in equilibrium, the transient response is relevant for climate adaptation in the next several decades. Given the urgency of understanding regional patterns of climate risk in the near term, it would be desirable to develop projections that represent a broader range of possible future tropical Pacific warming scenarios—including some in which recent historical trends continue—even if such projections cannot currently be produced using existing coupled earth system models.

Science & Technology - Other Topics↗

Solar neutrinos and ν 2 visible decays to ν 1

Experimental bounds on the neutrino lifetime depend on the nature of the neutrinos and the details of the potentially new physics responsible for neutrino decay. In the case where the decays involve active neutrinos in the final state, the neutrino masses also qualitatively impact how these manifest themselves experimentally. In order to further understand the impact of nonzero neutrino masses, we explore how observations of solar neutrinos constrain a very simple toy model. We assume that neutrinos are Dirac fermions and there is a new massless scalar that couples to neutrinos such that a heavy neutrino— ν 2 with mass m 2 —can decay into a lighter neutrino— ν 1 with mass m 1 —and a massless scalar. We find that the constraints on the new physics coupling depend, sometimes significantly, on the ratio of the daughter-to-parent neutrino masses and that, for large-enough values of the new physics coupling, the “dark side” of the solar neutrino parameter space— sin 2 θ 12 ∼ 0.7 —provides a reasonable fit to solar neutrino data, if only B 8 or Be 7 neutrino data alone are considered, but no allowed region is found in the combined analysis. Our results generalize to other neutrino-decay scenarios, including those that mediate ν 2 → ν 1 ν ¯ 3 ν 3 when the neutrino mass ordering is inverted mass and m 2 > m 1 ≫ m 3 , the mass of ν 3 . Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Astronomy & Astrophysics↗

Description of the mean behaviour of ionospheric plasma temperatures

A status report on the empirical modeling of ionospheric electron and ion temperatures is given with special emphasis on the models used in the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI). Electron temperature models have now reached a state where reliable prediction of the mean altitudinal, latitudinal and diurnal variations is possible. These models are largely based on satellite measurements, but comparisons with incoherent scatter radar measurements have shown excellent agreement. Variations with season and magnetic and solar activity seem to be small and are not yet included consistently in these models. Similar to the electron temperature, the ion temperature shows the largest variations with altitude, latitude and local time. But due to the larger mass, these variations are smoother and more steady in the case of the ions and therefore easier to model. Nevertheless, very few ion temperature models exist. The IRI model takes advantage of the observed concurrence of the ion temperature with the neutral temperature at low altitudes and with the electron temperature at high altitudes.

Bilitza, Dieter↗

Textural constraints on effusive silicic volcanism - Beyond the permeable foam model

The paper reports textural observations and presents isotopic evidence from active and recent silicic lava flows which show that at least some vesiculation occurs during surface advance of extrusions, after magma has reached the earth's surface. This view is in contrast to the widely promoted 'permeable foam' model, which states that all volatiles escape during ascent of the magma, and that all dense glassy material in lava flows forms from the collapse of pumiceous lava, i.e., that silicic lavas emerge as highly inflated foam flows. The permeable foam model also implies the unlikely requirement that explosive-to-effusive transitions be associated with an increase in the eruption rate. A more comprehensive model for the emplacement of silicic extrusions that allows for early gas loss during ascent, as well as late-stage vesiculation, is presented. The way in which the redistribution of volatiles during surface flow can increase explosive hazards from silicic lavas days, weeks, or months after the lava emerges from the event is discussed.

Fink, Jonathan H.↗

ARTSN: An Automated Real-Time Spacecraft Navigation System

As part of the Deep Space Network (DSN) advanced technology program an effort is underway to design a filter to automate the deep space navigation process.The automated real-time spacecraft navigation (ARTSN) filter task is based on a prototype consisting of a FORTRAN77 package operating on an HP-9000/700 workstation running HP-UX 9.05. This will be converted to C, and maintained as the operational version. The processing tasks required are: (1) read a measurement, (2) integrate the spacecraft state to the current measurement time, (3) compute the observable based on the integrated state, and (4) incorporate the measurement information into the state using an extended Kalman filter. This filter processes radiometric data collected by the DSN. The dynamic (force) models currently include point mass gravitational terms for all planets, the Sun and Moon, solar radiation pressure, finite maneuvers, and attitude maintenance activity modeled quadratically. In addition, observable errors due to troposphere are included. Further data types, force and observable models will be ncluded to enhance the accuracy of the models and the capability of the package. The heart of the ARSTSN is a currently available continuous-discrete extended Kalman filter. Simulated data used to test the implementation at various stages of development and the results from processing actual mission data are presented.

Burkhart, P. Daniel↗

Geoscience Applications of Airborne and Spaceborne Lidar Altimetry

Recent advances in lidar altimetry technology have enabled new methods to describe the vertical structure of the Earth's surface with great accuracy. Application of these methods in several geoscience disciplines will be described. Airborne characterization of vegetation canopy structure will be illustrated, including a validation of lidar-derived Canopy Height Profiles for closed-canopy, broadleaf forests. Airborne detection of tectonic landforms beneath dense canopy will also be illustrated, with an application mapping active fault traces in the Puget Lowland of Washington state for earthquake hazard assessment purposes. Application of data from the first and second flights of the Shuttle Laser Altimeter will also be discussed in an assessment of global digital elevation model accuracy and error characteristics. Two upcoming space flight missions will be described, the Vegetation Canopy Lidar (VCL) and the Ice, Cloud and Land Elevation Mission (ICESat), which will provide comprehensive lidar altimeter observations of the Earth's topography and vegetation cover.

Harding David J.↗