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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 1,045 records · Page 58
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2020

Information Scrambling and Loschmidt Echo

We demonstrate analytically and verify numerically that the out-of-time order correlator is given by the thermal average of Loschmidt echo signals. This provides a direct link between the out-of-time-order correlator—a recently suggested measure of information scrambling in quantum chaotic systems—and the Loschmidt echo, a well-appreciated familiar diagnostic that captures the dynamical aspect of chaotic behavior in the time domain, and is accessible to experimental studies.

0-dimensional systems↗
DOE OSTI2022

Nonlinear deformation and elasticity of BCC refractory metals and alloys

Application of isotropic pressure or uniaxial strain alters the elastic properties of materials; sufficiently large strains can drive structural transformations. Linear elasticity describes stability against infinitesimal strains, while nonlinear elasticity describes the response to finite deformations. Here, it was previously shown that uniaxial strain along [100] drives refractory metals and alloys towards mechanical instabilities. These include an extensional instability, and a symmetry-breaking orthorhombic distortion caused by a Jahn-Teller-Peierls instability that splays the cubic lattice vectors. Here we analyze these transitions in depth. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the Wallace tensor identify and classify linear instabilities in the presence of strain. We show that both instabilities are discontinuous, leading to discrete jumps in the lattice parameters. We provide physical intuition for the instabilities by analyzing the changes in first-principles energy, stress, bond lengths, and angles upon application of strain. Electronic band structure calculations show differential occupation of bonding and antibonding orbitals, driven by the changing bond lengths and leading to the structural transformations. Strain thresholds for these instabilities depend on the valence electron count.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2020

PETSc Users Manual (Rev. 3.13)

This manual describes the use of PETSc for the numerical solution of partial differential equations and related problems on high-performance computers. The Portable, Extensible Toolkit for Scientific Computation (PETSc) is a suite of data structures and routines that provide the building blocks for the implementation of large-scale application codes on parallel (and serial) computers. PETSc uses the MPI standard for all message-passing communication. PETSc includes an expanding suite of parallel linear solvers, nonlinear solvers, and time integrators that may be used in application codes written in Fortran, C, C++, and Python. PETSc provides many of the mechanisms needed within parallel application codes, such as parallel matrix and vector assembly routines. The library is organized hierarchically, enabling users to employ the level of abstraction that is most appropriate for a particular problem. By using techniques of object-oriented programming, PETSc provides enormous flexibility for users. PETSc is a sophisticated set of software tools; as such, for some users it initially has a much steeper learning curve than a simple subroutine library. In particular, for individuals without some computer science background, experience programming in C, C++, python, or Fortran and experience using a debugger such as gdb or dbx, it may require a significant amount of time to take full advantage of the features that enable efficient software use. However, the power of the PETSc design and the algorithms it incorporates may make the efficient implementation of many application codes simpler than \rolling them" yourself.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2024

Kinetics of HCP-BCC Phase Transition Boundary in Magnesium at High Pressure

Under high pressures, many crystalline metals undergo solid–solid phase transformations. In order to accurately model the behavior of materials under extreme loading conditions, it is essential to understand the kinetics of phase transition. Using molecular dynamics simulations, this work demonstrates the feasibility of characterizing the speeds of a moving phase boundary using atomistic simulations employing a suitable empirical potential for single-crystal magnesium. The model can provide temperature- and tensorial stress-dependent velocity of a moving phase boundary as a rate-limiting contribution to the kinetics of phase transformation in continuum codes. Results demonstrate that a nonlinear interaction exists between plasticity and phase transition, facilitating a jump in the velocity of a moving phase boundary, facilitated by activated plastic deformation mechanisms.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1972

Instabilities in uranium plasma and the gas-core nuclear rocket engine

The nonlinear evolution of unstable sound waves in a uranium plasma has been calculated using a multiple time-scale asymptotic expansion scheme. The fluid equations used include the fission power density, radiation diffusion, and the effects of the changing degree of ionization of the uranium atoms. The nonlinear growth of unstable waves is shown to be limited by mode coupling to shorter wavelength waves which are damped by radiation diffusion. This mechanism limits the wave pressure fluctuations to values of order delta P/P approximates 0.00001 in the plasma of a typical gas-core nuclear rocket engine. The instability is thus not expected to present a control problem for this engine.

Tidman, D. A.↗
NASA NTRS1971

Instabilities in uranium plasma.

The nonlinear evolution of unstable sound waves in a uranium plasma has been calculated using a multiple time-scale asymptotic expansion scheme. The fluid equations used include the fission power density, radiation diffusion, and the effects of the changing degree of ionization of the uranium atoms. The nonlinear growth of unstable waves is shown to be limited by mode coupling to shorter wavelength waves which are damped by radiation diffusion. This mechanism limits the wave pressure fluctuations to values of order delta P/P equal to about .00001 in the plasma of a typical gas-core nuclear rocket engine. The instability is thus not expected to present a control problem for this engine.

Tidman, D. A.↗
NASA NTRS1984

A global low order spectral model designed for climate sensitivity studies

A two level, global, spectral model using pressure as a vertical coordinate is developed. The system of equations describing the model is nonlinear and quasi-geostrophic. A moisture budget is calculated in the lower layer only with moist convective adjustment between the two layers. The mechanical forcing of topography is introduced as a lower boundary vertical velocity. Solar forcing is specified assuming a daily mean zenith angle. On land and sea ice surfaces a steady state thermal energy equation is solved to calculate the surface temperature. Over the oceans the sea surface temperatures are prescribed from the climatological average of January. The model is integrated to simulate the January climate.

Hanna, A. F.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Contributions to the understanding of large-scale coherent structures in developing free turbulent shear flows

Advances in the mechanics of boundary layer flow are reported. The physical problems of large scale coherent structures in real, developing free turbulent shear flows, from the nonlinear aspects of hydrodynamic stability are addressed. The presence of fine grained turbulence in the problem, and its absence, lacks a small parameter. The problem is presented on the basis of conservation principles, which are the dynamics of the problem directed towards extracting the most physical information, however, it is emphasized that it must also involve approximations.

Liu, J. T. C.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Large Angle Transient Dynamics (LATDYN) user's manual

A computer code for modeling the large angle transient dynamics (LATDYN) of structures was developed to investigate techniques for analyzing flexible deformation and control/structure interaction problems associated with large angular motions of spacecraft. This type of analysis is beyond the routine capability of conventional analytical tools without simplifying assumptions. In some instances, the motion may be sufficiently slow and the spacecraft (or component) sufficiently rigid to simplify analyses of dynamics and controls by making pseudo-static and/or rigid body assumptions. The LATDYN introduces a new approach to the problem by combining finite element structural analysis, multi-body dynamics, and control system analysis in a single tool. It includes a type of finite element that can deform and rotate through large angles at the same time, and which can be connected to other finite elements either rigidly or through mechanical joints. The LATDYN also provides symbolic capabilities for modeling control systems which are interfaced directly with the finite element structural model. Thus, the nonlinear equations representing the structural model are integrated along with the equations representing sensors, processing, and controls as a coupled system.

Abrahamson, A. Louis↗
NASA NTRS1997

Effects of Convection During the Photodeposition of Polydiacetylene Thin Films

In this work, we describe a preliminary investigation of buoyancy-driven heat transfer during the growth of thin films from solution following exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Irradiation of the growth cell occurs at various directions relative to gravitational acceleration. Through numerical computations, the steady-state flow and temperature profiles are simulated during the course of light exposure. Light-induced polymerization accompanies a heat transfer process through a fairly complicated recirculating flow pattern. A scaling analysis shows that buoyancy-driven velocities only reduce by a factor of 10 for gravity levels as low as 10(exp -2)g(sub 0). Paley et al. observe what appears to be gravitationally sensitive particle development and inclusion in thin films using a photodeposition process. From this study it is clear that production of homogeneous thin films would have to occur in the environment of a complicated flow pattern of recirculation with a nonuniform temperature distribution. Indeed, even when irradiation occurs from the top of the cell, the most stable stratified cell orientation, defects remain in our films due to the persistence of buoyancy-driven convection. To achieve homogeneity, minimal scattering centers, and possible molecular order, photodeposition of polymer films by UV light exposure must proceed in a reduced-convection environment. Fluid mechanics simulations are useful for establishing gravitational sensitivity to this recently discovered process (patent # 5,451,433) for preparing thin films having quite promising nonlinear optical characteristics.

Frazier, D. O.↗
NASA NTRS1997

Effects of Convection during the Photodeposition of Polydiacetylene Thin Films

In this work, we describe a preliminary investigation of buoyancy-driven heat transfer during the growth of thin films from solution following exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Irradiation of the growth cell occurs at various directions relative to gravitational acceleration. Through numerical computations, the steady-state flow and temperature profiles are simulated during the course of light exposure. Light-induced polymerization accompanies a heat transfer process through a fairly complicated recirculating flow pattern. A scaling analysis shows that buoyancy-driven velocities only reduce by a factor of 10 for gravity levels as low as 10(exp -2) g(sub 0). Paley et al. observe what appears to be gravitationally sensitive particle development and inclusion in thin films using a photodeposition process. From this study, it is clear that production of homogeneous thin films would have to occur in the environment of a complicated flow pattern of recirculation with a nonuniform temperature distribution. Indeed, even when irradiation occurs from the top of the cell, the most stable stratified cell orientation, defects remain in our films due to the persistence of buoyancy-driven convection. To achieve homogeneity, minimal scattering centers, and possible molecular order, photodeposition of polymer films by UV light exposure must proceed in a reduced-convection environment. Fluid mechanics simulations are useful for establishing gravitational sensitivity to this recently discovered process (patent # 5,451,433) for preparing thin films having quite promising nonlinear optical characteristics.

Frazier, D. O.↗
NASA NTRS1987

The nonlinear interaction of Tollmien-Schlichting waves and Taylor-Goertler vortices in curved channel flows

It is known that a viscous fluid flow with curved streamlines can support both Tollmien-Schlichting and Taylor-Goertler instabilities. In a situation where both modes are possible on the basis of linear theory a nonlinear theory must be used to determine the effect of the interaction of the instabilities. The details of this interaction are of practical importance because of its possible catastrophic effects on mechanisms used for laminar flow control. This interaction is studied in the context of fully developed flows in curved channels. A part form technical differences associated with boundary layer growth the structures of the instabilities in this flow are very similar to those in the practically more important external boundary layer situation. The interaction is shown to have two distinct phases depending on the size of the disturbances. At very low amplitudes two oblique Tollmein-Schlichting waves interact with a Goertler vortex in such a manner that the amplitudes become infinite at a finite time. This type of interaction is described by ordinary differential amplitude equations with quadratic nonlinearities.

Hall, P.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Effect of Polymer Topology on Microstructure, Segmental Dynamics, and Ionic Conductivity in PEO/PMMA-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes

We report Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have attracted much interest due to their high ionic conductivity resulting from inherently fast segmental dynamics and high salt solubility, yet they lack mechanical stability in their neat form. Blending PEO with another rigid, or high glass transition temperature, polymer is a versatile way to improve the mechanical stability; however, the ionic conductivity is strongly reduced due to slower segmental dynamics of highly interpenetrating linear polymer chains. In this work, we used model PEO/PMMA blend systems prepared with various well-defined PEO architectures (linear, stars, hyperbranched, and bottlebrushes) doped with lithium bis(trifluoromethane-sulfonyl)-imide (LiTFSI) and investigated, for the first time, the role of macromolecular architecture of PEO on crystallization, segmental dynamics, and ionic conductivity in the blends and electrolytes. The results suggest that room-temperature miscibility of these polymers can be dramatically extended by using nonlinear PEO in the blends instead of linear chains, which crystallize above 35 wt %. The broadband dielectric spectroscopy results revealed enhanced decoupling of PMMA and PEO segmental dynamics in compact branched architectures, which helps to achieve faster segmental motion of star PEO in glassy PMMA. This manifests as nearly three-fold higher ionic conductivity in these nonlinear blends compared to the conventional linear PEO/PMMA system. Regardless of the PEO architectures, the temperature dependence of ionic conductivity blends with PMMA and LiTFSI is well defined using the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann mechanism, suggesting that ion transport is mainly affected by the segmental motion. The activation energy values decrease with the increasing ionic conductivity. Overall, our results show that macromolecular architecture can be a tool to decouple segmental dynamics and ion mobility to rationally design SPEs with improved performance.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2004

Implementation of Improved Transverse Shear Calculations and Higher Order Laminate Theory Into Strain Rate Dependent Analyses of Polymer Matrix Composites

A numerical procedure has been developed to investigate the nonlinear and strain rate dependent deformation response of polymer matrix composite laminated plates under high strain rate impact loadings. A recently developed strength of materials based micromechanics model, incorporating a set of nonlinear, strain rate dependent constitutive equations for the polymer matrix, is extended to account for the transverse shear effects during impact. Four different assumptions of transverse shear deformation are investigated in order to improve the developed strain rate dependent micromechanics model. The validities of these assumptions are investigated using numerical and theoretical approaches. A method to determine through the thickness strain and transverse Poisson's ratio of the composite is developed. The revised micromechanics model is then implemented into a higher order laminated plate theory which is modified to include the effects of inelastic strains. Parametric studies are conducted to investigate the mechanical response of composite plates under high strain rate loadings. Results show the transverse shear stresses cannot be neglected in the impact problem. A significant level of strain rate dependency and material nonlinearity is found in the deformation response of representative composite specimens.

Zhu, Lin-Fa↗
NASA NTRS1987

Nonlinear binary-mode interactions in a developing mixing layer

This paper presents the formulation and results of two-wave interactions in a spatially developing shear layer, directed at understanding and interpreting the physical mechanisms that underlie the results of quantitative observation. The study confirms the existence of Kelly's (1967) mechanism that augments the growth of a subharmonic disturbance by extracting energy from its fundamental or vice versa. This mechanism is shown to be strongest in the region where the fundamental begins to return energy to the mean flow and the two wave modes are of comparable energy levels. It is found that the initial conditions and, especially, the initial phase angle between the two disturbances play a very significant role in the modal development and that of the shear layer itself. A doubling of the shear-layer thickness is shown to take place; the two successive plateaux in its growth are attributed to the peaking in the energy production rates of the fundamental and subharmonic fluctuations.

Nikitopoulos, D. E.↗
NASA NTRS1995

The Mode 1 mechanical crack tip stress field in hyperelastic and incompressible materials

The finite deformation field of a plane strain Mode 1 crack in a hyperelastic and incompressible material was examined under the assumptions of small scale nonlinearity. Finite element analyses were performed for two different material laws, a Neo-Hookean material and a third order invariant of a Rivlin material. The numerical results for both materials were compared to the appropriate theoretical asymptotic solution. A local cavitation locus surrounding the crack tip was identified for the Neo-Hookean material. For the third order invariant Rivlin material, maximum values of the dominant stress component were found close to the surface of the crack, above and below the deformed crack tip.

Quigley, Claudia J.↗
DOE OSTI2022

Photonic circuits for laser stabilization with integrated ultra-high Q and Brillouin laser resonators

The integration of stabilized lasers, sources that generate spectrally pure light, will provide compact, low-cost solutions for applications including quantum information sciences, precision navigation and timing, metrology, and high-capacity fiber communications. We report a significant advancement in this field, demonstrating stabilization of an integrated waveguide Brillouin laser to an integrated waveguide reference cavity, where both resonators are fabricated using the same CMOS-compatible integration platform. We demonstrate reduction of the free running Brillouin laser linewidth to a 292 Hz integral linewidth and carrier stabilization to a 4.9 × 10 –13 fractional frequency at 8 ms reaching the cavity-intrinsic thermorefractive noise limit for frequencies down to 80 Hz. We achieve this level of performance using a pair of 56.4 x 10 6 quality factor Si 3 N 4 waveguide ring-resonators that reduce the high-frequency noise by the nonlinear Brillouin process and the low-frequency noise by Pound–Drever–Hall locking to the ultra-low loss resonator. These results represent an important step toward integrated stabilized lasers with reduced sensitivity to environmental disturbances for atomic, molecular, and optical physics (AMO), quantum information processing and sensing, and other precision scientific, sensing, and communications applications.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗