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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 1,081 records · Page 60
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2021

LIM1TR: Lithium-Ion Modeling with 1-D Thermal Runaway (V.1.0)

LIM1TR (Lithium-Ion Modeling with 1-D Thermal Runaway) is an open-source code that uses the finite volume method to simulate heat transfer and chemical kinetics on a quasi 1-D domain. The target application of this software is to simulate thermal runaway in systems of lithium-ion batteries. The source code for LIM1TR can be found at https://github.com/ajkur/lim1tr. This user guide details the steps required to create and run simulations with LIM1TR starting with setting up the Python environment, generating an input file, and running a simulation. Additional details are provided on the output of LIM1TR as well as extending the code with custom reaction models. This user guide concludes with simple example analyses of common battery thermal runaway scenarios. The corresponding input files and processing scripts can be found in the “Examples” folder in the on-line repository, with select input files included in the appendix of this document.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
NASA NTRS2002

Pickup Ions at Dione and Enceladus

Voyager images of the icy satellites of Saturn, Dione and Enceladus, suggest they have been geologically active and are not only composed of ice. Recent observations by HST have shown the presence of ozone at both Dione and Rhea which also implies the presence of molecular oxygen at these bodies. The Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) will provide the capability to determine the global composition of these bodies by measuring the pickup ions produced by the ionization of their sputter produced atmospheres. We will present a model of these atmospheres and associated pickup ions and demonstrate CAPS ability to distinguish the freshly produced picked up ions from the ambient plasma. Such ions are expected to form a ring distribution that will have a uniquely different energy-angle dependence than the ambient plasma ions. In the case of Dione we expect the potential for a moderate strength interaction for which both Voyager 1 and Pioneer 11 spacecraft measured ion cyclotron waves centered on the Dione L shell and near the equatorial plane. Since Enceladus may be the source of the E-ring, some surprises may be encountered during its close encounter with the Cassini spacecraft. In the case of Dione we will show that a wake pass at 500 km altitude is more than an order of magnitude better than an upstream pass at 500 km altitude. Pickup ion detection for minor ion species such as NH3+ is possible for 500 km altitude wake pass but not for a 500 km altitude upstream pass at closest approach. For navigation reasons a 100 km pass is not allowed and therefore it is essential to have a wake pass to maximize the science return for a targeted flyby with Dione. The CAPS observations when combined with magnetometer, plasma wave and energetic particle observations will allow us to estimate the source of ions into Saturn's magnetosphere due to these two bodies and to characterize the nature of the interaction with Saturn's magnetosphere.

Sittler, E.↗
DOE OSTI2025

In-device Battery Failure Analysis

Lithium-ion batteries are indispensable power sources for a wide range of modern electronic devices. However, battery lifespan remains a critical limitation, directly affecting the sustainability and user experience. Conventional battery failure analysis in controlled lab settings may not capture the complex interactions and environmental factors encountered in real-world, in-device operating conditions. Here, this study analyzes the failure of commercial wireless earbud batteries as a model system within their intended usage context. Through multiscale and multimodal characterizations, the degradations from the material level to the device level are correlated, elucidating a failure pattern that is closely tied to the specific device configuration and operating conditions. The findings indicate that the ultimate failure mode is determined by the interplay of battery materials, cell structural design, and the in-device microenvironment, such as temperature gradients and their fluctuations. This holistic, in-device perspective on environmental influences provides critical insights for battery integration design, enhancing the reliability of modern electronics.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2025

Scaling deep learning for material imaging with a pseudo 3D model for domain transfer

The recent introduction of deep learning methods for image processing has greatly advanced the characterization of materials using three-dimensional (3D) X-ray imaging techniques. However, deep learning models often have difficulty performing consistently across images owing to unavoidable variations in imaging conditions, which create inconsistencies even for the same material. As a result, networks must frequently be retrained for new datasets, limiting their applicability and generalization. Thus, it is critical to reduce the variations between images to enable a single model to process multiple datasets. Herein, we introduce P3T-Net, a pseudo-3D domain transfer network that transfers diverse 3D images into a uniform domain before processing using deep learning models. Remarkably, P3T-Net enables the reuse of previously trained networks for processing new images and considerably reduces the computational cost of transferring 3D images across domains. These unique capabilities were demonstrated in the following scenarios: (i) image enhancement of fast scans for geological rock and hydrogen fuel cells, (ii) enhancement of images to match the quality of multi-source imaging for lithium-ion batteries, (iii) accurate segmentation of images captured under different conditions, and (iv) tera-scale 3D transfer (10 11 voxels) on a single GPU. Overall, the proposed approach addresses cross-domain inconsistencies across various materials and conditions, thereby enabling more robust and generalizable deep learning solutions for a wide range of material imaging tasks.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2020

Relativistic plasma physics in supercritical fields

Since the invention of chirped pulse amplification, which was recognized by a Nobel Prize in physics in 2018, there has been a continuing increase in available laser intensity. Combined with advances in our understanding of the kinetics of relativistic plasma, studies of laser-plasma interactions are entering a new regime where the physics of relativistic plasmas is strongly affected by strong-field quantum electrodynamics (QED) processes, including hard photon emission and electron-positron (e⁻-e⁺) pair production. Additionally, this coupling of quantum emission processes and relativistic collective particle dynamics can result in dramatically new plasma physics phenomena, such as the generation of dense e⁻-e⁺ pair plasma from near vacuum, complete laser energy absorption by QED processes, or the stopping of an ultra-relativistic electron beam, which could penetrate a cm of lead, by a hair's breadth of laser light. In addition to being of fundamental interest, it is crucial to study this new regime to understand the next generation of ultra-high intensity laser-matter experiments and their resulting applications, such as high energy ion, electron, positron, and photon sources for fundamental physics studies, medical radiotherapy, and next generation radiography for homeland security and industry.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2026

Measuring X-Ray Emission Line Shapes in Neutral Species for XRISM Calibration

Space X-ray spectrometers such as the Resolve instrument on XRISM require precise calibration in order to interpret the spectra of astrophysical objects. Key components of the calibration are the energy scale and the core line spread function, both of which vary with photon energy. A major issue in the calibration of high-resolution spectrometers is locating good calibrators with well-known and stable intrinsic line shapes. Neutral fluorescence is widely used, but inner-shell transitions in neutral atoms often exhibit complex, poorly documented line shapes that vary with excitation conditions. Here, in this study, we present empirical measurements of K-shell transitions in neutral O and F below 1 keV using an engineering model XRISM calorimeter array, an electron bombardment modulated X-ray source, and an electron beam ion trap (EBIT) to provide a precise energy reference. In addition, we report measurements of the Mo Lα complex with the transition-edge microcalorimeter spectrometer (TEMS), which reveal strong satellite structure and sensitivity of the line shape to the incident exciting spectrum. Together, these results demonstrate the need for empirical line-shape models, highlight the nonstationary nature of neutral fluorescence features, and define a path toward developing transfer standards for XRISM and future precision instruments such as Athena/X-IFU.

Astronomy and AstroPhysics↗
DOE OSTI2024

Synthesis and Functionalization of Coal Fly Ash-Derived Zeolites for Boron Removal From Wastewater

There are hundreds of both active and unused surface impoundments in the United States containing coal combustion residuals (CCRs) produced by coal-fired power plants which can leach toxic elements into surface and groundwater. Therefore, the development of efficient means for both the clean-up of surface impoundments and for deriving economically viable products from CCRs are urgent tasks for researchers. Herein, a microwave-assisted strategy is presented for converting a common coal combustion residual, coal fly ash (CFA), into zeolite-based sorbents for boron (B) removal from wastewater. Specifically, CFA constitutes the main source of Si and Al ions to produce zeolite type-A and the resulting sorbent subsequently undergoes simple cation exchange with Ca to enhance its B adsorption capacity. Structure and composition of the sorbents were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-mass spectrometry (MS), and ICP-optical emission spectroscopy (OES). The Ca-modified zeolite sorbent derived from CFA exhibits comparable B removal capacity with similar commercial zeolites.

Muldoon, Patrick↗
DOE OSTI2025

Development of Crown Ether-Functionalized Polymeric Sorbents for Lithium-Ion Capture

The purpose of this Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) was to develop and demonstrate new synthetic strategies for fabricating lithium-selective polymeric adsorbents by covalently incorporating crown ether functionalities into durable, processable support materials. These advanced sorbents are designed to selectively extract lithium ions (Li⁺) from dilute aqueous sources such as brine, seawater, industrial wastewater, and battery recycling streams.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1973

Multiring probe in a flowing ionospheric plasma.

Description of a multiring probe placed in an ionospheric flow simulation chamber utilizing a modified Kaufman ion engine for its plasma source. The pertinent details of the probe design, instrumentation, and operating procedures are discussed, and the preliminary results obtained are presented.

Sheldon, J. W.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Graphite ionization vacuum gauge

Triode gauge with electron source, electron collector, and positive ion collector made from either graphite or carbon material extends low-pressure ranges of existing gauges by changing only materials used in construction. Advantages of graphite gauge stem from physical properties of graphite (or carbon).

Beitel, G. A.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Spacecraft charging control demonstration at geosynchronous altitude

ATS-6, which was launched on May 30, 1974, has now completed its first eclipse season. Potentials as great as 11,000 volts were observed between the spacecraft and ambient plasma. Both ATS-5 and 6 have ion engine experiments onboard. These experiments have been used to clamp the spacecraft potential slightly negative when emitting an ion beam and momentarily discharge the spacecraft when only operating the ion engine's neutralizing electron source. Descriptions of the neutralizer's operation and their effect on potential are presented. In addition, spacecraft charging data for ATS-5 and 6 are presented and correlated over the same eclipse season.

Bartlett, R. O.↗
NASA NTRS1975

On the origin of high-Ti mare basalts

Analyses were conducted of sixteen Apollo 17 mare basalts for alkali, alkaline-earth, and rare-earth elements, Co, and Sc. The obtained data were utilized in a study concerning the nature of the igneous processes responsible for the chemical variations among the high-Ti, low-K basalts. Estimates were obtained regarding the abundances of the large-ion, lithophile elements in the source regions for the basalts. It is shown that the source regions could plausibly have been produced by processes believed to have occurred during the early history of the moon. Attention is given to chemical variations among the Apollo 17 mare basalts, near-surface (low-pressure) crystal fractionation, partial melting, limits on the extent of partial melting, and a summary of possible events leading to formation of high-Ti mare basalts.

Shih, C.-Y.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Navigation capability for an ion drive rendezvous with Halley's Comet

Navigation accuracies are presented for a 1985 rendezvous with Halley's Comet using an ion propulsion system. Individual error sources are examined to determine their relative contributions to final delivery errors. The sensitivity of delivery accuracy to stochastic thrust variations is demonstrated by considering a baseline thrust error model and a more benign alternative model. Also studied are the effects of increased comet ephemeris uncertainties and of operational time delays between the orbit determination process and the guidance implementation.

Thornton, C. L.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Solar wind ion injections in the morning auroral oval

Energy versus time dispersion of precipitating ion bursts was observed during two rocket flights in the morning auroral oval. Individual bursts lasted about 20 seconds and repeated on a time scale of 100 seconds. The dispersion is interpreted as energy-dependent time-of-flight delay which provides identification of ion charge-to-mass ratio as well as injection source distance. The data are consistent with injections of magnetosheath ions with injection distances ranging from 7 to 19 earth radii. Individual events extended over a regin of at least several degrees of magnetic longitude and 0.3 degrees of invariant latitude. It is suggested that these events are associated with turbulent plasma entry into the magnetospheric entry layer.

Carlson, C. W.↗
NASA NTRS1981

High frequency plasma generators for ion thruster applications

Two concepts for high frequency discharge ion thrusters are described. Both sources are designed for use with 30 cm grid sets and argon propellant and utilize multi-cusp permanent magnet geometries for plasma confinement. The RF induction source is a conventional design representing a synthesis of the RIT and multi-cusp concepts. The preliminary data (without system optimization) indicate a discharge efficiency comparable to that obtained in 30 cm hollow cathode multi-cusp argon thrusters. The electron cyclotron heating source is electrodeless and exhibits plasma characteristics which should lead to greatly reduced discharge chamber and screen sputter rates with the optimization of the magnetic fields, microwave frequency, and feed configuration.

Divergilio, W. F.↗
NASA NTRS1982

The X-ray binary, UW CMa

The UW CMa is a close, eclipsing binary composed of an O7f primary with a stron wind and a less luminous O-type companion. It was found that UW CMa a variable X-ray source, whose X-ray variations are in phase with its optical light curve. Since both components of the binary system are O stars, accretion by a compact object is ruled out as a mechanism for generating X-rays. The UW CMa represents a new class of X-ray binaries, in which X-rays result from the collision of a wind from one star with the surface or wind of the other star. It is hypothesised that the impact of a wind against a star generates a shock wave about 0.25 stellar radii above the stellar surface, and material behind the shock front, heated to bout 10 million degrees, radiates the X-ray apparent X-ray variability is due to its location between the two stars, where it undergoes eclipses. The high temperature region maintains an ionization cavity in the wind, as detected with IUE. The ionization cavity is the source of depletion of absorbing ions in the wind between the two stars.

Heap, S. R.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Flute mode waves near the lower hybrid frequency excited by ion rings in velocity space

Discrete emissions at the lower hybrid frequency are often seen on the S3-3 satellite. Simultaneous observation of perpendicularly heated ions suggests that these ions may provide the free energy necessary to drive the instability. Studies of the dispersion relation for flute modes excited by warm ion rings in velocity space show that waves are excited with real frequencies near the lower hybrid frequency and with growth rates ranging from about 0.01 to 1 times the ion cyclotron frequency. Numerical results are therefore consistent with the possibility that the observed ions are the free energy source for the observed waves.

Cattell, C.↗