SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “supply chains”

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.

SourceResearch connectionFrom yearThrough year

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 1,009 records · Page 56

All sources NASA NTRS DOE OSTI

DOE OSTI2021

Additive Manufacturing of Lightweight Structures: Microfibrillated Cellulose – PLA Biofoams

Extrusion-based polymer additive manufacturing (AM) technology is growing rapidly. The introduction of fiber reinforced feedstock materials and recent developments in the manufacturing systems have promulgated large scale AM of composites to create new industries and applications. Synthetic fibers such as carbon and glass fibers are commonly used to reinforce polymer composites. However, increasing environmental and long-term sustainability concerns are leading to new materials using cellulose fiber reinforcement in bio-derived polymers. These materials offer new property sets, new supply chains and have the potential to provide economical solutions leading to new applications. Large scale AM can be attractive for many different applications because of its ability to freeform manufacture complex geometries; each application may require different material properties. One of the novel application areas for large scale AM is 3D printing of lightweight materials via foaming. Although achieving low density is the key in light weighting via foaming, mechanical performance is also important for many applications. In this study the impact of micro-cellulose fibers (MFC) on foaming behavior and the mechanical properties of additively manufactured parts is investigated. MFC-polylactic acid (PLA) feedstock pellets were prepared at varying MFC content (5, 10, 15 and 20 wt.%) to understand the impact of cellulose fiber content on density and mechanical properties of the AM biocomposites. Also, the impact of extrusion speed and foaming agent content on the AM biocomposites is investigated. Although achieving uniform printed foam structure is challenging with the presence of cellulose fibers, promising results were accomplished with density values below 0.5g/cm3.

Tekinalp, Halil↗

DOE OSTI2024

Analysis as a Key Guiding Tool for Waste Carbon Utilization

Over a billion metric tons of waste and biomass are projected to be available in a future mature market in the United States. These resources represent an opportunity to decouple chemical and polymer production from conventional fossil fuel feedstocks, but such a broad solution space can also make for challenging decision-making. This talk will provide researchers with an introduction to key analysis techniques such as techno-economic analysis, life cycle assessment, and material flow analysis: how they are conducted and how they can be used to benchmark the costs, environmental impacts, and circularity of new innovations as well as to identify opportunities for prioritization and optimization. Using a series of examples related to plastic recycling and chemical manufacturing, we will explore how analysis can guide where and how to leverage waste carbon in supply chains towards a future circular economy.

chemical↗

DOE OSTI2024

Presentation: SMR Current Status: Development Needs and Global Perspectives

Defined as nuclear reactors with a power output up to 300 megawatts electrical (MWe) by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and targeted for multipurpose applications, small modular reactors (SMRs) have been recognized as a very promising, clean, affordable, and sustainable energy source by many countries. At present, more than 80 SMRs are under design, development, demonstration, deployment, and beyond (4D+) phases worldwide. This paper focuses on the current world status of SMRs and focuses on the necessary developments to accelerate the process of adopting SMRs as a major energy source globally. SMRs are not a new concept, but they do represent a new vision for older concepts if the challenges inherent within them are mitigated with strategic and realistic solution approaches. The major challenges for SMRs 4D+ like any new reactors are: (a) qualifying the advanced fuel-to-reactor design; (b) supporting rapid scaled/prototypic experimentations; (c) maintaining local and global codes, standards, and licensing; (d) supply chain issues; (e) effective cradle-to-grave nuclear fuel cycle and fuel material transportation, and (f) mitigating financial and environmental risks. These upfront challenges can be mitigated with a synergistic solution approach among the various stakeholders: industry, academia, research, government, and international entities.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

DOE OSTI2024

SMR Current Status: Development Needs and Global Perspectives

Defined as nuclear reactors with a power output up to 300 megawatts electrical (MWe) by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and targeted for multipurpose applications, small modular reactors (SMRs) have been recognized as a very promising, clean, affordable, and sustainable energy source by many countries. At present, more than 80 SMRs are under design, development, demonstration, deployment, and beyond (4D+) phases worldwide. This study focuses on the current world status of SMRs and focuses on the necessary developments to accelerate the process of adopting SMRs as a major energy source globally. SMRs are not a new concept, but they do represent a new vision for older concepts if the challenges inherent within them are mitigated with strategic and realistic solution approaches. The major challenges for SMRs 4D+ like any new reactors are: (a) qualifying the advanced fuel-to-reactor design; (b) supporting rapid scaled/prototypic experimentations; (c) maintaining local and global codes, standards, and licensing; (d) supply chain issues;(e) effective cradle-to-grave nuclear fuel cycle and fuel material transportation, and (f) mitigating financial and environmental risks. These upfront challenges can be mitigated with a synergistic solution approach among the various stakeholders: industry, academia, research, government, and international entities.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

DOE OSTI2023

Evaluation of Nickel Alloys, Manufactured through Powder Bed Fusion, for Application for Advanced Nuclear Reactors

In collaboration with other laboratories, Idaho National Laboratory has investigated additively manufactured alloys for applications in advanced nuclear reactors. The primary focus has been on nickel alloys, as well as “other” alloys, which are alloys not considered steel nor nickel-based alloys, manufactured by laser powder bed fusion. Suitability of investigated alloys were considered against a matrix of properties of interest, developed jointly with the collaborating laboratories. For the nickel alloys, Alloys 282 and 625 are considered promising due to their properties, existing data, and availability of commercial powder feedstock. Haynes 244 is also of interest for its molten salt corrosion resistance, however there is no current feedstock supply chain, and no experience with this alloy as an additively manufactured material. Iron-chrome-aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, zirconium alloys, ceramics, and ceramic inclusions were all considered within the other alloys category. The results and discussions within this report will be compiled with the investigations from the other collaborating laboratories and compiled into a final report later this year (2023).

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2022

Risk-Informed Operations and Maintenance Decision Making Using Deep Reinforcement Learning

A challenge for operating nuclear power plants is the significant cost of operations and maintenance, at times consuming up to 66% of annual operating costs. This project aims to build a framework for a risk-informed asset-management tool that integrates inspections, repairs, spare-part inventory, supply chain, and business choices to lower overall O&M costs. Our approach uses a combination of data-driven modeling and deep reinforcement learning to create and implement optimal maintenance policies for the existing nuclear fleet, as well as new advanced reactors. The creation of an asset management tool that uses these advanced methods will give operators new capabilities to help reduce the burden of O&M spending in nuclear power plants.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

DOE OSTI2025

Airships as Transformative Tools for Power Systems Logistics: Addressing Infrastructure Challenges and Enhancing Disaster Resilience

Airships represent a transformative advancement in logistics, particularly for the power systems industry. Their unique ability to transport heavy equipment and personnel efficiently over remote or disaster-stricken areas, while requiring minimal infrastructure, addresses critical gaps left by traditional methods. Combining adaptability with environmental sustainability, airships offer a low-carbon alternative for routine operations and emergency responses. This review presents current developments in airship technology, such as rigid airships designed for large payloads, demonstrate their potential to revolutionize supply chains.

Fuhr, Peter L. [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000211627445)↗

DOE OSTI2025

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing of Multi-material Parts Using H-13 Tool Steel

H-13 tools steel’s relative hardness, resistance to thermal fatigue, and high tolerance of thermal shock, make it very desirable for use in forging, pressing, casting, and extrusion processes[1]. H-13 is however typically quite expensive when compared to many other steel compositions. It is therefore desirable to encase a lower cost steel composition with H-13. This configuration allows for the benefits of H-13 tooling to be realized, at a considerably reduced cost. To demonstrate the viability of this concept, a casting tool was fabricated using a Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) process. Initial materials testing was conducted on a multi-material wall which consisted of one section of H-13 tool steel, and one section of 410NiNmo. These tests included scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and hardness testing. This testing generated favorable results and subsequently a casting tool was fabricated for evaluation. Utilization of a Multi-Material WAAM process to fabricate large tooling in this manner could yield significant improvements in material cost, manufacturing agility, and supply chain complexity.

Lambert, Nathan [ORNL] (ORCID:0009000324134206)↗

DOE OSTI2022

Comparative Effects of Radiation Sterilization Modality on Medical PVC Tubing

As the production volume of single-use, polymer-based medical devices increases each year, so does the need for throughput capacity to sterilize the devices. Around 80% of radiation-sterilized devices are processed using gamma-ray radiation from industrial cobalt-60 sources. Supply chain, security, and disposal concerns are prompting manufacturers and contract sterilizers to explore alternatives to irradiation using cobalt-60 gamma-rays, such as electron beam (E-beam) and X-ray radiation. Advantages of these ‘machine’ sources over radioisotope-based sources are that they do not decay, a characteristic that requires cobalt-60 to be replaced over time, they can be turned off when not in use, and they do not represent the same level of concern regarding misuse. One of the barriers to direct transition from gamma-ray sterilization to E-beam or X-ray sterilization is concern over the relatively unknown effects of sterilization dose of these alternative modalities on the performance of medical device polymers. Commercially available medical devices sterilized with gamma-ray irradiation exhibit acceptable device function, acceptable mechanical performance, and acceptable discoloration. To be viable, alternate sterilization methods must not only achieve acceptable sterilization, but the process must also result in a product with functional, mechanical, and visual effects acceptable to customers and the regulator. Flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a plastic material that is commonly found in single-use medical devices and is known for its sensitivity to radiation processing. For instance, transparent PVC is known to yellow upon irradiation. To encouraging sterilization alternatives to cobalt-60 gamma-ray, we directly compared the effects of gamma-ray, E-beam, and X-ray radiation exposure at similar sterilization-relevant doses on key properties of medical grade PVC tubing.

cobalt-60↗

DOE OSTI2025

Technical Assistance for Digital Assurance: DistribuTECH Workshop

Idaho National Laboratory, the Department of Energy’s Grid Deployment Office, and other national laboratories are collaborating to ensure the U.S. energy infrastructure is reliable, resilient, and secure. This involves strategically leveraging digital technologies to modernize the grid, enhance its resilience against all hazards and disruptions, and fortify national energy security across a diverse energy portfolio. In this workshop you will learn about Idaho National Lab’s Technical Assistance programs, where organizations will be matched with a national laboratory subject matter expert to focus on their key topical area. The technical assistance offered through this track is designed to be responsive to a rapidly changing regulatory landscape and cutting-edge technologies that enhance grid reliability and efficiency. Users will be guided through a tailored analysis and mitigation program to determine their current security posture and given assistance in evaluating supply chain and protection choices against potential consequences.

Digital assurance↗

DOE OSTI2025

NREL Is Strengthening the Future of Hydropower, A Cornerstone of America's Energy System

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is a leader in advancing hydropower technologies, positioning hydropower as a pillar of an affordable, reliable, and secure energy future. Through its hydropower program, NREL is conducting innovative research that reduces energy costs, drives efficiency, and supports systems integration - unlocking economic opportunities, rebuilding supply chains, and fueling America's global competitiveness.

13 HYDRO ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2025

Cyber-Informed Engineering (CIE) Guide for States

The Cyber-Informed Engineering (CIE) Guide for States provides state energy offices, public utility commissions, and partner organizations with a structured framework for integrating cyber-resilient engineering practices into energy planning, grantmaking, interconnection processes, and workforce development. As grid digitalization and the adoption of distributed energy resources accelerate, states face expanding cyber-physical risks that traditional cybersecurity measures alone cannot fully address. CIE offers a proactive, consequence-focused engineering methodology that emphasizes eliminating or mitigating high-impact failure modes through design, physical controls, and operational safeguards. The guide outlines the 12 core CIE principles, demonstrates their application through state-focused use cases—including grant evaluation rubrics, interconnection reviews, allow-list development, and training programs—and provides practical tools such as scoring frameworks, impact assessment methods, and implementation checklists. It also highlights pathways for state–utility collaboration and opportunities for technical assistance from national laboratories. By adopting CIE, states can enhance grid reliability, reduce lifecycle costs, strengthen supply-chain assurance, and foster a security-aware engineering culture that aligns with broader resilience and modernization goals. November 2025

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗

DOE OSTI2025

Cyber-Informed Engineering (CIE) Guide for States

29 - ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY AND ECONOMY↗

DOE OSTI2025

Update on R&D progress by DOE

High temperature materials and graphite and composite program review to include: Baseline for unirradiated material properties, ASTM test development, design and construction rules (ASME-based), new fuel matrix mechanical studies, Irradiation damage studies, vender irradiation capsules, graphite supply chain worries, and ceramic composite activities.

11 - NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

DOE OSTI2025

GAIN Base Presentation Slide Deck 2/12/25

The GAIN Base Slide Deck is a compilation of topics that GAIN presents routinely to outside entities to educate them on the GAIN program, technology, demonstrations, coal to nuclear, energy systems, Financing, Supply Chain, Legislation, Regulatory, and Consent Based Citing.

99 - GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2026

Smart Inverters, Dumb Risk: Taking Control of IBR Security in the Digital Age

This presentation addresses the security challenges posed by Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) in the modern energy landscape. The presentation highlights the vulnerabilities and risks associated with IBRs, including the potential for cyber-attacks, the impact of insecure defaults, and the systemic risks posed by supply chain dependencies. Key topics covered include: 1) The increasing digital transformation in energy systems and the associated security risks. 2) Specific vulnerabilities in IBRs, including weak passwords, hardcoded credentials, and insecure web application interfaces. 3) The implications of persistent connectivity and the strategic risks posed by foreign-manufactured components. 4) The role of regulatory frameworks, such as NERC CIP, in addressing these challenges and the limitations of current oversight. 5) Practical solutions for mitigating risks, including secure design practices, vendor risk assessments, and the importance of strong passwords and role-based access control. The presentation underscores the necessity of a comprehensive, system-of-systems approach to securing IBRs, emphasizing the need for collaboration across various stakeholders, including operators, developers, and regulators, to ensure the resilience and security of the energy grid.

24 - POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

DOE OSTI2026

FY27 Annual LDRD Call for Proposals - external release

Proposals are now being accepted for the fiscal year 2027 (FY-27) Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) call, the FY-27 Annual LDRD Call for Proposals. Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has renewed its research and development (R&D) portfolio to align with its strategy, and this call seeks high-quality proposals that address these renewed research priorities. The LDRD Office encourages proposals that offer the potential to achieve breakthroughs in the three science and technology (S&T) strategic initiatives: • Unleashing America’s Energy Abundance: Enabling the Quadrupling of Nuclear Power by 2050; • Securing America’s Future by Developing Domestic Supply Chains for Critical and Strategic Minerals and Materials (CSMM); and • Delivering Critical National Security Technology. Proposals that support INL’s four strategic thrust areas are also encouraged: • Enabling Future Fusion Energy Systems; • Delivering Small Nuclear Reactor Technology for Space Exploration and Defense Missions; • Accelerating Technologies for Hybrid Energy and Nuclear Applications; and • Securing America’s Energy Future Through Artificial Intelligence (AI).

99 - GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2025

American Made Energy Infrastructure - Evolution of Federal Incentives and Requirements

This presentation, "Evolution of Federal Incentives and Requirements," explores the development and impact of federal cybersecurity regulations, tax credits, and domestic content requirements on the energy sector. It covers key legislation such as the ARRA of 2009, IIJA, and IRA, and their implications for grid modernization, manufacturing, and deployment of energy technologies. The presentation also addresses definitions and restrictions related to Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) and their impact on federal procurement. Additionally, it introduces the DOE's cybersecurity framework for energy supply chains and practical actions for compliance planning.

25 - ENERGY STORAGE↗