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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 1,027 records · Page 57
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2017

Effect of defects, magnetocrystalline anisotropy, and shape anisotropy on magnetic structure of iron thin films by magnetic force microscopy

Microstructures of magnetic materials, including defects and crystallographic orientations, are known to strongly influence magnetic domain structures. Measurement techniques such as magnetic force microscopy (MFM) thus allow study of correlations between microstructural and magnetic properties. The present work probes effects of anisotropy and artificial defects on the evolution of domain structure with applied field. Single crystal iron thin films on MgO substrates were milled by Focused Ion Beam (FIB) to create different magnetically isolated squares and rectangles in [110] crystallographic orientations, having their easy axis 45° from the sample edge. To investigate domain wall response on encountering non-magnetic defects, a 150 nm diameter hole was created in the center of some samples. By simultaneously varying crystal orientation and shape, both magnetocrystalline anisotropy and shape anisotropy, as well as their interaction, could be studied. Shape anisotropy was found to be important primarily for the longer edge of rectangular samples, which exaggerated the FIB edge effects and provided nucleation sites for spike domains in non-easy axis oriented samples. Center holes acted as pinning sites for domain walls until large applied magnetic fields. The present studies are aimed at deepening the understanding of the propagation of different types of domain walls in the presence of defects and different crystal orientations.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2017

The effect of reconnection electric field on crescent and U-shaped distribution functions in asymmetric reconnection with no guide field

Electron distribution functions in the electron diffusion region in asymmetric reconnection without a guide field are studied by means of theory and 2-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. The effect of the reconnection electric field on crescent-shaped distribution functions is to broaden the thickness of the crescent. In this paper, we express the thickness of the crescent as a function of field strengths, the distance from the X-line, and the time electrons spend executing meandering orbits. The electron distribution at the reconnection X-line exhibits a U-shaped structure with an opening angle in the direction of the reconnection electric field. We predict the opening angle of the U-shaped distribution by considering acceleration of the meandering electrons by the reconnection electric field. Results from particle tracing in PIC simulations and theoretical analysis agree. The above predictions provide guidance to interpret measurements by spacecraft from electron diffusion regions in asymmetric reconnection.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2018

Shaping effects on toroidal magnetohydrodynamic modes in the presence of plasma and wall resistivity

This study explores the effects of plasma shaping on magnetohydrodynamic mode stability and rotational stabilization in a tokamak, including both plasma and wall resistivity. Depending upon the plasma shape, safety factor, and distance from the wall, the β-limit for rotational stabilization is given by either the resistive-plasma ideal-wall (tearing mode) limit or the ideal-plasma resistive-wall (resistive wall mode) limit. In order to explore this broad parameter space, a sharp-boundary model is developed with a realistic geometry, resonant tearing surfaces, and a resistive wall. The β-limit achievable in the presence of stabilization by rigid plasma rotation, or by an equivalent feedback control with imaginary normal-field gain, is shown to peak at specific values of elongation and triangularity. As a result, it is shown that the optimal shaping with rotation typically coincides with transitions between tearing-dominated and wall-dominated mode behavior

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2019

A time-to-frequency converter for measuring the shape of short optical pulses

A time-to-frequency converter was constructed using an electro-optic phase modulator as a time lens, allowing the pulse shape in time to be transferred to the frequency domain. We used such a device to record the temporal shape of infrared pulses at a wavelength of 1053 nm (width about 7 ps) and compared these measurements to those made by using both a streak camera and an autocorrelator. This side-by-side comparison illustrates the benefits and limitations of each of the measurement methods. Numerical simulations were used to establish that our time-lens-based system can accurately measure the shape of infrared pulses between 3 ps and 12 ps. We also use our numerical model to determine how such a system can be modified to measure pulses whose width lies in the range of 1–30 ps, a range of interest for the OMEGA-EP laser at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2020

Gunn threshold voltage characterization in GaAs devices with wedge-shaped tapering

Here, we fabricate gallium arsenide-based devices with a wedge-shaped tapering region connected to a rectangular-shaped region and measure the threshold voltage required to trigger the Gunn effect. The threshold voltage reduction is attributed to the focusing of the electric field toward the narrower end of the device and is effective when the device has a steep enough tapering. We also model the electric field profile for the tapered devices using an intuitive graphical approach and the finite element method and provide estimates for the threshold voltages of tapered devices. Finally, we compare the estimates to the measured values and provide possible reasons for the discrepancies. We believe the capability of threshold voltage reduction with the wedge-shaped tapering design could be useful in device applications.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2024

Temporal pre-pulse shaping in dual pulse laser produced plasma for the optimization of the EUV source in tin microdroplet system

Dual-laser beams interacting with small droplets of liquid tin are currently the most efficient systems for producing the 13.5 nm EUV photon radiation source required for the next generation microchips. Usually, EUV light is produced during the second main-pulse stage, while the pre-pulse (PP) is used for target preparation, i.e., droplet preheating, vaporization, and target deformation. However, the PP laser energy can be utilized more efficiently if the EUV producing plasma is being developed during the PP stage as well. In this work, we study the ways of optimization of the PP laser temporal shape to achieve conditions for maximum EUV output during the pre-pulse. The size of the deformed droplet is kept optimized for the following main laser pulse. Our simulations showed a significant increase in the EUV output at the pre-pulse stage when a ramping profile is used for the laser temporal shape. Using the ramped square pre-pulse produces 24% gain in the EUV output in comparison with the standard Gaussian temporal profile (i.e., regular Nd:YAG shape) for the same energy of the laser pulse.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2024

Effect of penetrant–polymer interactions and shape on the motion of molecular penetrants in dense polymer networks

The diffusion of dilute molecular penetrants within polymers plays a crucial role in the advancement of material engineering for applications such as coatings and membrane separations. The potential of highly cross-linked polymer networks in these applications stems from their capacity to adjust the size and shape selectivity through subtle changes in network structures. In this paper, we use molecular dynamics simulation to understand the role of penetrant shape (aspect ratios) and its interaction with polymer networks on its diffusivity. We characterize both local penetrant hopping and the long-time diffusive motion for penetrants and consider different aspect ratios and penetrant–network interaction strengths at a variety of cross-link densities and temperatures. The shape affects the coupling of penetrant motion to the cross-link density- and temperature-dependent structural relaxation of networks and also affects the way a penetrant experiences the confinement from the network meshes. The attractive interaction between the penetrant and network primarily affects the former since only the system of dilute limit is of present interest. These results offer fundamental insights into the intricate interplay between penetrant characteristics and polymer network properties and also suggest future directions for manipulating polymer design to enhance the separation efficiency.

Chemistry↗
DOE OSTI2024

First look at neutron emission shape characteristics of ignition hotspots at the National Ignition Facility (invited)

The nuclear imaging system has been capturing neutron images of inertial confinement fusion (ICF) driven implosions for over a decade at the National Ignition Facility. This imaging system has evolved from one to three nearly orthogonal lines-of-sight, allowing for the study of three-dimensional shape characteristics of ignition shots. Limited-view tomography algorithms help visualize the burning hotspot in 3D and assess neutron source geometry using Legendre mode parameters. With its neutron, gamma-ray, and x-ray image reconstruction capabilities, NIS has provided critical insight into mechanisms that have limited implosion performance, such as fill tube diameter for ignition-type targets. This comprehensive diagnostic suite opens a window into the shape characteristics of ignition shots and how symmetry affects ICF implosion performance. In more recent ignition shots, neutron yields have visibly increased. Analyzing the shape and size of the reconstructed neutron source has shown an expansion of the burn volume, which is indicative of more efficient alpha heating during the implosion process.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2024

Harnessing complexity: Nonlinear optical phenomena in L-shapes, nanocrescents, and split-ring resonators

Here, we conduct systematic studies of the optical characteristics of plasmonic nanoparticles that exhibit C 2v symmetry. In particular, we analyze three distinct geometric configurations: an L-type shape, a crescent, and a split-ring resonator shaped like the Greek letter π. Optical properties are examined using the finite-difference time-domain method. It is demonstrated that all three shapes exhibit two prominent plasmon modes associated with the two axes of symmetry. This is in addition to a wide range of resonances observed at high frequencies corresponding to quadrupole modes and peaks due to sharp corners. Next, to facilitate nonlinear analysis, we employ a semiclassical hydrodynamic model, where the electron pressure term is explicitly accounted for. This model goes beyond the standard Drude description and enables capturing nonlocal and nonlinear effects. Employing this model enables us to rigorously examine the second-order angular resolved nonlinear optical response of these nanoparticles in each of the three configurations. Two pumping regimes are considered, namely, continuous wave (CW) and pulsed excitations. For CW pumping, we explore the properties of the second harmonic generation (SHG). Polarization and angle-resolved SHG spectra are obtained, revealing strong dependence on the nanoparticle geometry and incident wave polarization. The C 2v symmetry is shown to play a key role in determining the polarization states and selection rules of the SHG signal. For pulsed excitations, we discuss the phenomenon of broadband terahertz (THz) generation induced by the difference-frequency generation . It is shown that the THz emission spectra exhibit unique features attributed to the plasmonic resonances and symmetry of the nanoparticles. The polarization of the generated THz waves is also examined, revealing interesting patterns tied to the nanoparticle geometry. To gain deeper insight, we propose an analytical theory that agrees very well with the numerical experiments. The theory shows that the physical origin of the THz radiation is the mixing of various frequency components of the fundamental pulse by the second-order nonlinear susceptibility. An expression for the far-field THz intensity is derived in terms of the incident pulse parameters and the nonlinear response tensor of the nanoparticle. The results presented in this work offer new insights into the linear and nonlinear optical properties of nanoparticles with C 2v symmetry. The demonstrated strong SHG response and efficient broadband THz generation hold great promise for applications in nonlinear spectroscopy, nanophotonics, and optoelectronics. The proposed theoretical framework also provides a valuable tool for understanding and predicting the nonlinear behavior of other related nanostructures.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2024

Shape effects on the local dynamics of suspensions of spheroidal particles

The effect of shape on the dynamics of suspensions of non-spherical heavy particles is examined by fully resolved numerical simulations of oblate and prolate spheroids, as well as spheres, for a density ratio of ten, volume fractions ranging from 0.5% to 5%, and Reynolds numbers between 20 and 30. The dynamics is determined both by the interactions of the particles with the fluid as well as by collisions, with the number and importance of collisions increasing with volume fractions. A single isolated oblate or prolate spheroid falling under gravity generally falls broadside on, for the governing parameters examined here, and at low-volume fractions, the majority of particles in a suspension fall that way. At higher-volume fractions, the orientation is more random. The slip velocity decreases as the volume fraction increases for all shapes, as expected, but the effect of the shape is much less than seen for a single particle. Furthermore, this seems to be due to two effects. For all volume fractions, the most deformed particles cluster more than spheres and less deformed particles, which increases their slip velocity. As the concentration increases, the increased particle interactions also causes more particles to fall short side-on, which reduces the frontal area and the resulting drag, increasing the slip velocity. This second effect is, of course, absent for spherical particles.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2025

Effect of particle shape on stratification in drying films of binary colloidal mixtures

The role of particle shape in evaporation-induced auto-stratification in polydisperse colloidal suspensions is explored with molecular dynamics simulations of mixtures of spheres and aspherical particles. A unified framework based on the competition between diffusion and diffusiophoresis is proposed to understand the effects of shape and size dispersity. In general, particles diffusing more slowly (e.g., larger particles) tend to accumulate more strongly at the evaporation front. However, larger particles have larger surface areas and therefore greater diffusiophoretic mobility. Hence, they are more likely to be driven away from the evaporation front via diffusiophoresis. For a rapidly dried bidisperse suspension containing small and large spheres, the competition leads to “small-on-top” stratification. Here, we employ a computational model in which the diffusion coefficient is inversely proportional to particle mass. For a mixture of spheres and aspherical particles with similar mass, the diffusion contrast is reduced, and the spheres are always enriched at the evaporation front as they have the smallest surface area for a given mass and, therefore, the lowest diffusiophoretic mobility. Furthermore, for a mixture of solid and hollow spheres that have the same outer radius and thus the same surface area, the diffusiophoretic contrast is suppressed, and the system is dominated by diffusion. Consequently, the solid spheres, which have a larger mass and diffuse more slowly, accumulate on top of the hollow spheres. Finally, for a mixture of thin disks and long rods that differ significantly in shape but have similar mass and surface area, both diffusion and diffusiophoresis contrasts are suppressed, and the mixture does not stratify.

Classical molecular dynamic simulations↗
DOE OSTI2017

Laser-induced modification of structure and shape of cartilage in otolaryngology and orthopaedics

We present the results of basic research in laser modification of tissues in otolaryngology (correcting the shape of nasal septum and larynx cartilages), cosmetology (correcting ear and nose shape), orthopaedics and spinal surgery (treatment of diseases of spine disc and joints). The physical processes and mechanisms of laser-induced relaxation of stresses and regeneration of tissues are considered. New results of studies in this fast-developing field of laser surgery are presented, in particular, the results of laser correction of costal cartilage shape in the process of making implants for the treatment of larynx stenosis and controlled regeneration of the hyaline articular cartilage. (laser medicine)

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗
DOE OSTI2015

IMPROVED ALGORITHMS FOR RADAR-BASED RECONSTRUCTION OF ASTEROID SHAPES

We describe our implementation of a global-parameter optimizer and Square Root Information Filter into the asteroid-modeling software shape. We compare the performance of our new optimizer with that of the existing sequential optimizer when operating on various forms of simulated data and actual asteroid radar data. In all cases, the new implementation performs substantially better than its predecessor: it converges faster, produces shape models that are more accurate, and solves for spin axis orientations more reliably. We discuss potential future changes to improve shape's fitting speed and accuracy.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2013

AN ASYMMETRIC STREAMING MOTION IN THE GALACTIC BULGE X-SHAPED STRUCTURE REVEALED BY OGLE-III PROPER MOTIONS

The Galactic bulge shows a double red clump in sightlines at |b| ∼> 5° and –3° ∼< l ∼< 4°. This dump is interpreted as the signature of an X-shaped structure seen almost edge-on. We measure the proper motions of the stars belonging to the closer and the further arms of the X-shaped structure. The intrinsic kinematic properties of the two arms are found by incorporating information taken from the luminosity function. At b = –5°, we find that the proper motion difference between the two arms is a linear function of Galactic longitude for –0.°1 < l < 0.°5, which we interpret as a streaming motion of the stars within the X-shaped structure. A streaming motion was previously reported based on radial velocity data, not the proper motions. The proper motion difference in longitude is constant for –0.°8 < l < –0.°1, which provides an estimate of the bulge rotational speed of 87.9 ± 8.2 km s{sup –1} kpc{sup –1}.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2022

Introduction to spectral line shape theory

Spectral line-shape models are an important part of understanding high-energy-density (HED) plasmas. Models are needed for calculating opacity of materials and can serve as diagnostics for astrophysical and laboratory plasmas. However, much of the literature on line shapes is directed toward specialists. This perspective makes it difficult for non-specialists to enter the field. We have two broad goals with this topical review. First, we aim to give information so that others in HED physics may better understand the current field. Additionally, this first goal may help guide future experiments to test different aspects of the theory. Second, we provide an introduction for those who might be interested in line-shape theory, and enough materials to be able to navigate the field and the literature. We give a high-level overview of line broadening process, as well as dive into the formalism, available methods, and approximations.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2020

A method to test the coupling strength of the linear and nonlinear contributions to higher-order flow harmonics via event shape engineering

A Multi-Phase Transport (AMPT) model is used to study the efficacy of shape-engineered events to delineate the degree of coupling between the linear and nonlinear contributions to the higher-order flow harmonics v 4 and v 5 . Here, the study shows that the nonlinear contributions are strongly shape-dependent while the linear contributions are shape-independent, indicating little if any, coupling between the linear and nonlinear flow coefficients. The experimental verification of such patterns could be an invaluable tool for robust extraction of the linear and mode-coupled flow coefficients, especially for beam energies where the charged particle multiplicity and the event statistics precludes the use of current methods to establish the coupling strength.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2020

Equilibrium shapes of facetted 3D metal nanoclusters intercalated near the surface of layered materials

Experimental studies indicate that 3D crystalline metal nanoclusters (NCs) intercalated under the surface of graphite have flat-topped equilibrated shapes. In this work, we characterize the shapes of these facetted NCs sandwiched between a blanketing graphene layer and the underlying graphite substrate. Specifically, we focus on the cases of fcc Cu and hcp Fe NCs. Furthermore, the analysis involves numerical minimization of the system energy for a specified NC volume and NC height, the latter corresponding to the separation between parallel top and bottom facets. Our numerical analysis quantifies how the distance of the side facet planes from center of the nanocluster varies linearly with a natural characteristic linear dimension of the nanocluster. Calculated shapes of fcc Cu and hcp Fe NCs are consistent with the hexagonal footprints observed in scanning tunneling microscopy studies.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2020

Analytical integration of the tractions induced by non-singular dislocations on an arbitrary shaped triangular quadratic element

Here, an analytical model is proposed to evaluate the nodal force induced by a segment of dislocation upon an arbitrary shaped triangular element. This calculation is required in hybrid methods that associate dislocation dynamics to boundary or finite element to solve simultaneously the evolution of large ensembles of dislocations with complex boundary conditions. Nodal forces are defined as the triple integration of the unbalanced traction field induced by a straight dislocation upon the surface of the element. Following our previous approach (Queyreau et al 2014 Modelling Simul. Mater. Sci. Eng. 22 035004) on a simpler geometry and in the case of linear isotropic elasticity, triple integrals are solved by sequences of integration by parts that exhibit recurrence relations. The traction field is defined and finite everywhere even at the core of dislocations, thanks to the use of the non-singular stress expression formulated by Cai et al (2006 J. Mech. Phys. Solids 54 561–587). The nodal force expressions can be used when considering both a single convolution or double convolution of the Green's function with the core distribution. A solution is also proposed for the case of a semi-infinite segment through the study of the asymptotic behavior of the analytical expressions. The proposed approach is exact and very computationally efficient. The choice of an arbitrary shaped triangular element and quadratic shape functions allow the consideration of complex geometries and comply with automatic meshing procedures. These analytical expressions could also be employed to estimate dislocation interactions with interfaces.

42 ENGINEERING↗