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At least 1,045 records · Page 58

Spectrally Consistent Scattering, Absorption, and Polarization Properties of Atmospheric Ice Crystals at Wavelengths from 0.2 to 100 um

A data library is developed containing the scattering, absorption, and polarization properties of ice particles in the spectral range from 0.2 to 100 microns. The properties are computed based on a combination of the Amsterdam discrete dipole approximation (ADDA), the T-matrix method, and the improved geometric optics method (IGOM). The electromagnetic edge effect is incorporated into the extinction and absorption efficiencies computed from the IGOM. A full set of single-scattering properties is provided by considering three-dimensional random orientations for 11 ice crystal habits: droxtals, prolate spheroids, oblate spheroids, solid and hollow columns, compact aggregates composed of eight solid columns, hexagonal plates, small spatial aggregates composed of 5 plates, large spatial aggregates composed of 10 plates, and solid and hollow bullet rosettes. The maximum dimension of each habit ranges from 2 to 10,000 microns in 189 discrete sizes. For each ice crystal habit, three surface roughness conditions (i.e., smooth, moderately roughened, and severely roughened) are considered to account for the surface texture of large particles in the IGOM applicable domain. The data library contains the extinction efficiency, single-scattering albedo, asymmetry parameter, six independent nonzero elements of the phase matrix (P11, P12, P22, P33, P43, and P44), particle projected area, and particle volume to provide the basic single-scattering properties for remote sensing applications and radiative transfer simulations involving ice clouds. Furthermore, a comparison of satellite observations and theoretical simulations for the polarization characteristics of ice clouds demonstrates that ice cloud optical models assuming severely roughened ice crystals significantly outperform their counterparts assuming smooth ice crystals.

Optical properties↗

Optics of Water Cloud Droplets Mixed with Black-Carbon Aerosols

We use the recently extended superposition T-matrix method to calculate scattering and absorption properties of micrometer-sized water droplets contaminated by black carbon. Our numerically exact results reveal that, depending on the mode of soot-water mixing, the soot specific absorption can vary by a factor exceeding 6.5. The specific absorption is maximized when the soot material is quasi-uniformly distributed throughout the droplet interior in the form of numerous small monomers. The range of mixing scenarios captured by our computations implies a wide range of remote sensing and radiation budget implications of the presence of black carbon in liquid-water clouds. We show that the popular Maxwell-Garnett effective-medium approximation can be used to calculate the optical cross sections, single-scattering albedo, and asymmetry parameter for the quasi-uniform mixing scenario, but is likely to fail in application to other mixing scenarios and in computations of the elements of the scattering matrix.

soot↗

Accelerating high-order mesh optimization using finite element partial assembly on GPUs

In this paper we present a new GPU-oriented mesh optimization method based on high order finite elements. Our approach relies on node movement with fixed topology, through the Target-Matrix Optimization Paradigm (TMOP) and uses a global nonlinear solve over the whole computational mesh, i.e., all mesh nodes are moved together. A key property of the method is that the mesh optimization process is recast in terms of finite element operations, which allows us to utilize recent advances in the field of GPU-accelerated high order finite element algorithms. For example, we reduce data motion by using tensor factorization and matrix-free methods, which have superior performance characteristics compared to traditional full finite element matrix assembly and offer advantages for GPU based HPC hardware. Furthermore, we describe the major mathematical components of the method along with their efficient GPU-oriented implementation. In addition, we propose an easily reproducible mesh optimization test that can serve as a performance benchmark for the mesh optimization community.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Analysis of delamination in cross ply laminates initiating from impact induced matrix cracking

Several two dimensional finite element analyses of (0 sub 2/90 sub 8/0 sub 2) glass/epoxy and graphite-epoxy composite laminates were performed to study some of the characteristics of damage development due to an impact load. A cross section through the thickness of the laminate with fixed ends, and carrying a transverse load in the center was analyzed. Inclined matrix cracks such as those produced by low velocity impact were modeled in the 90 deg ply group. The introduction of the matrix cracks caused large interlaminar tension and shear stresses in the vicinity of both crack tips in the 0/90 and 90/0 interfaces. The large interlaminar stresses at the ends of the matrix cracks indicate that matrix cracking may give rise to delamination. The ratio of mode I to total strain energy release rate at the beginning of delamination calculated at the two matrix crack tips was 60 and 28 pct., respectively, in the glass/epoxy laminate. The corresponding ratio was 97 and 77 pct. in the graphite-epoxy laminate. Thus, a significant mode I component of strain energy release rate may be present at the delamination initiation due to an impact load.

Salpekar, S. A.↗

Neutron diffraction measurements and modeling of residual strains in metal matrix composites

Neutron diffraction measurements at room temperature are used to characterize the residual strains in tungsten fiber-reinforced copper matrix, tungsten fiber-reinforced Kanthal matrix, and diamond particulate-reinforced copper matrix composites. Results of finite element modeling are compared with the neutron diffraction data. In tungsten/Kanthal composites, the fibers are in compression, the matrix is in tension, and the thermal residual strains are a strong function of the volume fraction of fibers. In copper matrix composites, the matrix is in tension and the stresses are independent of the volume fraction of tungsten fibers or diamond particles and the assumed stress free temperature because of the low yield strength of the matrix phase.

Saigal, A.↗

The Relaxation Matrix for Symmetric Tops with Inversion Symmetry. I. Effects of Line Coupling on Self-Broadened v (sub 1) and Pure Rotational Bands of NH3

The Robert-Bonamy formalism has been commonly used to calculate half-widths and shifts of spectral lines for decades. This formalism is based on several approximations. Among them, two have not been fully addressed: the isolated line approximation and the neglect of coupling between the translational and internal motions. Recently, we have shown that the isolated line approximation is not necessary in developing semi-classical line shape theories. Based on this progress, we have been able to develop a new formalism that enables not only to reduce uncertainties on calculated half-widths and shifts, but also to model line mixing effects on spectra starting from the knowledge of the intermolecular potential. In our previous studies, the new formalism had been applied to linear and asymmetric-top molecules. In the present study, the method has been extended to symmetric-top molecules with inversion symmetry. As expected, the inversion splitting induces a complete failure of the isolated line approximation. We have calculated the complex relaxation matrices of selfbroadened NH3. The half-widths and shifts in the ν1 and the pure rotational bands are reported in the present paper. When compared with measurements, the calculated half-widths match the experimental data very well, since the inapplicable isolated line approximation has been removed. With respect to the shifts, only qualitative results are obtained and discussed. Calculated off-diagonal elements of the relaxation matrix and a comparison with the observed line mixing effects are reported in the companion paper (Paper II).

Trajectory models↗

Uncertainty quantification for competing failure mechanisms in unidirectionally reinforced carbon–carbon composites

Microstructure-informed finite element models play a key role in the carbon–carbon composite design process. Variability in manufacturing process parameters and experimental limitations introduce model parameter uncertainty. This study quantifies the effect of model parameter uncertainty on transverse tensile fracture behavior and proposes a methodology to predict the failure mode based on competing microscale damage mechanisms. Finite element simulations incorporate fiber–matrix interface debonding with cohesive zones and matrix damage with a smeared crack band approach in a unidirectional carbon–carbon composite. Results from a variance-based global sensitivity analysis identifies interfacial and matrix damage parameters as the primary source of variability in fracture behavior. Sobol’ indices indicate that matrix and cohesive zone strengths contribute 94% of the variance in the effective ultimate stress. A local analysis elucidates the relationship between these constituent strength parameters and failure mode by estimating the probability of cohesive, matrix, and mixed-mode dominated failure. Based on the results for 4000 simulations, 93% exhibit mixed-mode or interfacial dominated failure, which underscores the crucial role of fiber–matrix interface debonding in the transverse tensile failure of carbon–carbon composites. These uncertainty quantification results facilitate more efficient model calibration and provide a framework for microstructure-informed failure predictions in the face of manufacturing-induced uncertainty.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Elastic and Piezoelectric Properties of Boron Nitride Nanotube Composites: Finite Element Model - Part II

This paper is the second part of a two-part series where the first part presents a molecular dynamics model of a single Boron Nitride Nanotube (BNNT) and this paper scales up to multiple BNNTs in a polymer matrix. This paper presents finite element (FE) models to investigate the effective elastic and piezoelectric properties of (BNNT) nanocomposites. The nanocomposites studied in this paper are thin films of polymer matrix with aligned co-planar BNNTs. The FE modelling approach provides a computationally efficient way to gain an understanding of the material properties. We examine several FE models to identify the most suitable models and investigate the effective properties with respect to the BNNT volume fraction and the number of nanotube walls. The FE models are constructed to represent aligned and randomly distributed BNNTs in a matrix of resin using 2D and 3D hollow and 3D filled cylinders. The homogenisation approach is employed to determine the overall elastic and piezoelectric constants for a range of volume fractions. These models are compared with an analytical model based on Mori-Tanaka formulation suitable for finite length cylindrical inclusions. The model applies to primarily single-wall BNNTs but is also extended to multi-wall BNNTs, for which preliminary results will be presented. Results from the Part 1 of this series can help to establish a constitutive relationship for input into the finite element model to enable the modeling of multiple BNNTs in a polymer matrix.

Kim, H. Alicia↗

Research on numerical algorithms for large space structures

Numerical algorithms for analysis and design of large space structures are investigated. The sign algorithm and its application to decoupling of differential equations are presented. The generalized sign algorithm is given and its application to several problems discussed. The Laplace transforms of matrix functions and the diagonalization procedure for a finite element equation are discussed. The diagonalization of matrix polynomials is considered. The quadrature method and Laplace transforms is discussed and the identification of linear systems by the quadrature method investigated.

Denman, E. D.↗

An Amoeboid Olivine Aggregate in LEW 85300

Amoeboid Olivine aggregates (AOAs) are irregularly shaped objects commonly observed in carbonaceous chondrites. Because they are composed of fine-grained olivine and Ca-Al-rich minerals, they are sensitive indicators for nebular process and parent body alteration of their parent bodies. Recently an AOA was found in a carbonaceous clast in polymict eucrite LEW 85300. The bulk major element composition of the clast matrix in LEW 85300 suggests a relation to CM, CO and CV chondrites, whereas bulk clast trace and major element compositions do not match any carbonaceous chondrite, suggesting they have a unique origin. Here we characterize the mineralogy of AOA in LEW 85300 and discuss the origin of the carbonaceous clasts. Results and Discussion: The AOA is located in an impact melt vein. Half of the aggregate shows recrystallization textures (euhedral pyroxene and molten metal/FeS) due to impact melting, but the remaining part preserves the original texture. The AOA is composed of olivine, FeS and Mg,Al-phyllosilicate. Individual olivine grains measure 1-8 microns, with Fe-rich rims, probably due to impact heating. Olivines in the AOA are highly forsteritic (Fo95-99), indicating that the AOA escaped thermal metamorphism [4]. Although no LIME (Low-Fe, Mn-Enriched) olivine is observed, forsterite composition and the coexistence of Mg,Al-phyllosilicate suggest that the AOA is similar to those in the Bali-type oxidized CV (CVoxB) and CR chondrites. However, it should be noted that fayalitic olivine, which commonly occurs in CVoxB AOA, is not observed in this AOA. Also, the smaller grain size (<8 microns) of olivine suggests they may be related to CM or CO chondrites. Therefore, we cannot exclude the possibility that the AOA originated from a unique carbonaceous chondrite.

Komatsu, M. D.↗

Postirradiation characterization of palladium as an additive for fuel cladding chemical interaction mitigation in metallic fuel

This work describes the microstructural and elemental characterization of irradiated metallic fuels containing palladium as an additive. The use of additives has been proposed to control Fuel-Cladding Chemical Interaction (FCCI) and thus to promote higher fuel utilization (i.e., higher burnup). In this work, Pd has been investigated as a potential additive to metallic fuel to bind lanthanides, impeding their migration and attack on the cladding. The influence of Pd on the microstructure, chemistry and performance of metallic fuel has been characterized via scanning electron microscopy for two metallic fuel designs—namely, annular and solid fuel. Pd was observed to play an important role in the chemistry of the fuel. Indeed, the addition of Pd leads to the formation of new phases. Pd was detected to combine not only with the lanthanides, as intended, but also with Zr, a main element of the fuel matrix. While Pd proved to be effective in preventing lanthanide migration and their attack on the cladding, the Pd-Zr compound may potentially lead to other unexpected fuel-performance issues, such as the formation of low-melting point phases and increased unalloyed U available for FCCI interaction with Fe in the cladding. Even the increase of Zr to 13wt%. did not completely mitigate this adverse phenomenon generated by the Pd-Zr interaction. Furthermore, the efficacy of using this additive needs further investigation.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

The j and k dependencies of the line coupling and line mixing effects: Theoretical studies of the relaxation matrices of N 2 -broadened CH 3 D

Line coupling and line mixing effects in parallel and perpendicular bands of CH 3 D perturbed by N 2 have been studied. The work focuses on exhibiting the j and k dependencies of these two processes. The calculations were based on a previously reported anisotropic intermolecular potential including both the long-range multipole, induction, and dispersion forces and a short-range atom-atom model. Throughout this work, it is shown that components with L 1 = 3 of the atom-atom model are dominant contributions to the diffusion operator. As a consequence, in comparison with other molecular systems such as the CH 3 Cl-N 2 and CH 3 I-N 2 , theoretically predicted line coupling and line mixing effects exhibit completely new j and k dependencies. In general, the theoretically calculated halfwidths and intra-doublets’ off-diagonal elements of the relaxation matrix are in reasonable agreement with measurements.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Off-line commissioning of the St. Benedict radiofrequency quadrupole cooler-buncher

The St. Benedict ion trapping system, which aims to measure the β - v angular correlation parameter in superallowed-mixed mirror transitions, is under construction at the University of Notre Dame. These measurements will provide much-needed data to improve the accuracy of the V ud element of the CKM matrix. One of the major components of this system is the radio frequency quadrupole cooler-buncher, which is necessary to create low-emittance ion bunches for injection into the measurement Paul trap. The off-line commissioning of the cooler-buncher, using a potassium ion source, determined that the device could produce cooled ion bunches characterized by a 50-ns full-width-half-maximum time width at its exit. The commissioning results also determined the trapping efficiency to be 93(1)% and the trapping half-life to be 20.0(5) s.

Paul trap↗

Numerical simulation of parametric resonance in point absorbers using a simplified model

Abstract Parametric resonance is a non‐linear phenomenon in which a system can oscillate at a frequency different from its exciting frequency. Some wave energy converters are prone to this phenomenon, which is usually detrimental to their performance. Here, a computationally efficient way of simulating parametric resonance in point absorbers is presented. The model is based on linear potential theory, so the wave forces are evaluated at the mean position of the body. However, the first‐order variation of the body's centres of gravity and buoyancy is taken into account. This gives essentially the same result as a more rigorous approach of keeping terms in the equation of motion up to second order in the body motions. The only difference from a linear model is the presence of non‐zero off‐diagonal elements in the mass matrix. The model is benchmarked against state‐of‐the‐art non‐linear Froude–Krylov and computational fluid dynamics models for free decay, regular wave, and focused wave group cases. It is shown that the simplified model is able to simulate parametric resonance in pitch to a reasonable accuracy even though no non‐linear wave forces are included. The simulation speed on a standard computer is up to two orders of magnitude faster than real time.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗

Trace Elemental Analysis of Bulk Thorium Using an Automated Separation–Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy Methodology

Presented here is a novel automated method for determining the trace element composition of bulk thorium by inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). ICP-OES is a universal approach for measuring the trace elemental impurities present in actinide-rich materials; however, due to the emission rich spectrum of the actinide, a separation from the trace elements is warranted for spectrochemical analysis. Here, AG MP-1 ion exchange resin was utilized for retention of the Th matrix, while allowing the trace element impurities to be separated prior to subsequent analysis using ICP-OES. After demonstrating the separation on traditional gravity-driven columns, the methodology was transitioned to an automated platform for comparison. This automated platform utilizes syringe-driven sample and solvent flow and can collect the trace element and thorium fractions in separate locations. Finally, while reducing the sample size (500 µL, 1.5 mg of Th), maintaining the overall separation efficiency (recoveries >95%), and illustrating the sample throughput ability (n = 10+), this automated methodology could be readily adopted to nuclear facilities in which the determination of trace elemental impurities in Th samples is warranted.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

A method for attitude control of a satellite in circular orbit by actively varying its inertia.

Equations are developed for a vehicle consisting of a system of particles which move in a generally prescribed fashion. These equations are then specialized to apply to a rigid vehicle with a constant amount of fluid contained in tanks and flowing through interconnecting lines. Various simplifications and specialized forms of the equations are derived, and relationships between mass and inertia that result from the fluid transfer logic and the physical constraints of the configuration are formulated. A tank arrangement and fluid transfer logic are devised which permit each vehicle product of inertia to be varied without varying the remaining elements of the inertia matrix or shifting the center of mass. Vehicle control is achieved by sensing angular rate and the local vertical and by transferring fluid as a function of these variables.

Clarke, W. D.↗

Eigenvalue routine by Sturm sequence method

Computer program has been generated for efficient solution of certain broad classes of eigenvalue problems. Procedure fully exploits banded nature of associated matrices and further enables user to compute either all roots or any specific ones desired. Special storage options enable storing only nonzero elements of associated main matrix of eigenvalue problem.

Gupta, K. K.↗

MICTPT - A minicomputer general-purpose microwave two-port analysis program

The implementation of a microwave network-analysis program for computers with 4K words of memory is described. The program is capable of the frequency analysis of networks which include interconnections of lumped elements, transmission lines, waveguides, and any two-port which is described by the elements of a scattering matrix. The network can be described mnemonically rather than by numerical codes. For each frequency in the range, the entire network is collapsed into a single equivalent A matrix, and the input impedance and other characteristics are calculated.

Olson, D. H.↗