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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 127 records · Page 7
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2019

Laser Light Sheet Flow Visualization of the Space Launch System Booster Separation Test

Planar flow visualizations were obtained in a wind tunnel test in the NASA Langley Research Center’s Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel using the laser-light-sheet method. This method uses a laser to illuminate fine particles generated in the wind tunnel to visualize flow structures. The test article was designed to simulate the separation of the two solid rocket boosters (SRBs) from the core stage of the NASA Space Launch System (SLS) at Mach 4 using a scale model. The test was run on of the SLS Block 1B Cargo (27005) configuration and the SLS Block 1B Crew (28005) configuration. Planar flow visualization was obtained only on the crew configuration. Air at pressures up to 1500 psi was used to simulate plumes from the booster separation motors (BSMs) located at the nose, and aft skirt of the two boosters. The facility free stream was seeded with water vapor, which condensed and froze into small ice crystals in the tunnel nozzle expansion. A continuous wave green (532 nm) laser sheet was used to illuminate the ice crystals, and the resulting Mie-scattered light was collected with a camera. The resulting images clearly identify shock waves and other flow features including BSM plume shapes. Measurements were acquired for different BSM pressures and booster separation locations.

Danehy, Paul M.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Quantitative Radiation Thermometry Using Commercially Available High-Speed Video Cameras

In order to understand the risk posed to astronauts by electric arc-generated particles, high-speed, high-resolution, quantitative thermal imaging was needed. The measurement requirements appeared to be beyond the capabilities of commercial thermal imaging systems, but the particles were known to have a significant amount of emission in the visible spectrum. This led to the use of commercially available, high-speed video cameras as imaging radiometers. Measured particle temperatures were consistent with predictions and other measurement data. The optical temperature measurement method, results, and conclusions are presented, along with recommendations for further work.

Thermal imaging↗
NASA NTRS2020

Development and Evaluation of the Raindrop Size Distribution Parameters for the NASA Global Precipitation Measurement Mission Ground Validation Program

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission ground validation program uses dual-polarization radar moments to estimate raindrop size distribution (DSD) parameters, the mass-weighted mean drop diameter Dmass, and normalized intercept parameter NW, to validate the GPM Core Observatory–derived DSD parameters. The disdrometer-based Dmass and NW are derived through empirical relationships between Dmass and differential reflectivity ZDR, and between NW, reflectivity ZH, and Dmass. This study employs large datasets collected from two-dimensional video disdrometers (2DVD) during six different field studies to derive the requisite empirical relationships. The uncertainty of the derived Dmass(ZDR) relationship is evaluated through comparisons of 2DVD-calculated and ZDR-estimated Dmass, where ZDR is calculated directly from 2DVD observations. Similarly, the uncertainty of the NW(ZH, Dmass) relationship is evaluated through 2DVD-calculated and Dmass and ZH-estimated NW, where Dmass and ZH are directly calculated from 2DVD observations. This study also presents the sensitivity of Dmass(ZDR) relationships to climate regime and to disdrometer type after developing three additional Dmass(ZDR) relationships from second-generation Particle Size Velocity (PARSIVEL2) disdrometer (P2) observations collected in the Pacific Northwest, in Iowa, and at Kwajalein Atoll in the tropical Pacific Ocean. The application of P2-derived Dmass(ZDR) relationship based on precipitation in the northwestern United States to P2 observations collected over the tropical ocean resulted in the highest error among comparisons of the three datasets.

Ali Tokay↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

An Overview of Experiments in The Entry Systems Modeling Project

The Entry Systems Modeling (ESM) project has invested in experiments designed to enhance understanding of salient interactions between thermal protection materials (TPS) and mission-relevant planetary entry environments. An arc-jet campaign has been carried out at the Aerodynamic Heating Facility (AHF) to investigate the spallation of fiber particles as a function of gas composition and to measure the effect of pyrolysis gas flow on the in-depth temperature response of phenolic impregnated carbon ablator (PICA). Moreover, fundamental insights into the pyrolysis and oxidation mechanisms of the phenolic binding agent of FiberForm will be discussed. Finally, two new apparatus developed at NASA will be presented that were designed to interrogate phenomena associated with the production of gases and particles generated under simulated flight conditions.

Material Response↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

An Overview of Experiments in The Entry Systems Modeling Project

The Entry Systems Modeling (ESM) project has invested in experiments designed to enhance understanding of salient interactions between thermal protection materials (TPS) and mission-relevant planetary entry environments. An arc-jet campaign has been carried out at the Aerodynamic Heating Facility (AHF) to investigate the spallation of fiber particles as a function of gas composition and to measure the effect of pyrolysis gas flow on the in-depth temperature response of phenolic impregnated carbon ablator (PICA). Moreover, fundamental insights into the pyrolysis and oxidation mechanisms of the phenolic binding agent of FiberForm will be discussed. Finally, two new apparatus developed at NASA will be presented that were designed to interrogate phenomena associated with the production of gases and particles generated under simulated flight conditions.

Varcum↗
NASA NTRS2026

The Trajectory of Recent Solid State Fusion Results

Both NASA and Google have explored and funded Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) aka Solid-State Fusion or Lattice Confinement Fusion (LCF) research. NASA has funded efforts since 1989, and Google Research began in 2014. Google, and researchers initially-funded by Google, published significant scientific papers in Nature, Nature Communications and the Journal of Applied Physics. NASA began a significant set of LENR-triggering programs in 2012 resulting in papers in Physical Review C, the Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry and the Journal of Condensed Matter Nuclear Science. Both NASA and Google engaged researchers across fields of nuclear physics, chemistry, electrochemistry, material science and more. NASA built upon early novel gas pumping experiments then followed the patented work of the US Navy SPAWAR (US8,419,919, “System and Method to Generate Particles”) and experiments with the Naval Surface Warfare Centers. Google supported researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), the University of British Columbia (UBC), MIT and others. This resulted in patent applications and two granted patents (US10264661B2, “Target structure for enhanced electron screening” and US10566094B2 “Enhanced electron screening through plasmon oscillations”). These separate efforts, unknown to the researchers at the time, provided the impetus for the DoE ARPA-E LENR program followed by the DARPA DSO “Mechanisms for Amplification of Fusion Reaction Rates in Solids” (MARRS) program. This document briefly describes the overlapping NASA and Google Research efforts in plasma loading and electron screening emphasizing the results of the latest paper in Nature Communications. The papers and patents cited are listed.

electron screening↗
NASA NTRS1994

The generation of entangled states from independent particle sources

The generation of entangled states of two systems from product states is discussed for the case in which the paths of the two systems do not overlap. A particular method of measuring allows one to project out the nonlocal entangled state. An application to the production of four photon entangled states is outlined.

Rubin, Morton H.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Particle Acceleration, Magnetic Field Generation and Emission from Relativistic Jets and Supernova Remnants

We performed numerical simulations of particle acceleration, magnetic field generation, and emission from shocks in order to understand the observed emission from relativistic jets and supernova remnants. The investigation involves the study of collisionless shocks, where the Weibel instability is responsible for particle acceleration as well as magnetic field generation. A 3-D relativistic particle-in-cell (RPIC) code has been used to investigate the shock processes in electron-positron plasmas. The evolution of theWeibe1 instability and its associated magnetic field generation and particle acceleration are studied with two different jet velocities (0 = 2,5 - slow, fast) corresponding to either outflows in supernova remnants or relativistic jets, such as those found in AGNs and microquasars. Slow jets have intrinsically different structures in both the generated magnetic fields and the accelerated particle spectrum. In particular, the jet head has a very weak magnetic field and the ambient electrons are strongly accelerated and dragged by the jet particles. The simulation results exhibit jitter radiation from inhomogeneous magnetic fields, generated by the Weibel instability, which has different spectral properties than standard synchrotron emission in a homogeneous magnetic field.

Nishikawa, K.-I.↗
NASA NTRS2008

The Solid Rocket Motor Slag Population: Results of a Radar-Based Regressive Statistical Evaluation

Solid rocket motor (SRM) slag has been identified as a potential source of man-made orbital debris. The possibility that SRMs (in addition to generating dust particles in the sub-millimeter range) may generate particles up to centimeters in size has caused concern regarding their contribution to the debris environment. Returned surfaces from space do not have sufficient area or exposure time to provide a clear picture of the SRM millimeter and centimeter debris population. Currently, radar observation is probably the only way to collect data showing the debris contribution from SRMs. Such observation is used to sample the debris environment, but it is difficult to obtain accurate orbital elements for the detected debris objects. NASA has developed several models to describe the different orbital debris populations, based on assumed debris production mechanisms to create clouds of debris objects that can be propagated in time. The NASA model, LEGEND (LEO-to-GEO Environment Debris), functions as a time-tested debris model for most debris sources. However, the current LEGEND model does not include contributions from the SRM population. An SRM model has recently been developed by NASA, based on purely theoretical details of SRM production and known SRM launches, but verification with hard data is needed. Because the detections of individual SRM objects cannot be deterministically separated from the total debris observed by radar, the validation of the SRM model can only be done by combining it with the LEGEND breakup model and comparing it with data. By applying observational constraints, the degree of SRM slag contribution to the environment may be estimated. This serves as an observationally sound method from which to calibrate a purely theoretical model into something more realistic. For this study, we use the populations observed by the Haystack radar from 1996 to present. For the SRM debris, we use a historical database of SRM launches, propellant masses, and estimated locations and times of tailoff to produce and propagate the SRM debris clouds. Comparisons with radar data from the ensuing years were made, and the SRM model was altered with respect to size and mass production of slag particles to reflect the populations estimated from the data. The result is a model SRM population that fits within the bounds of the observed environment and estimates of the production and contribution of SRM debris to the environment.

Horstman, Matthew F.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Particle Loading Tests on HEPA Flat Sheet Media at Sub-Ambient Pressures Using a Lunar Dust Simulant

When humans return to the moon under the NASA Artemis program, their activities on the lunar surface will inevitably lead to the intrusion of some level of lunar dust into the lander cabin. Therein the crew would be exposed to the potential hazards of lunar dust and the possibility of subsequent transfer into orbiting segments after docking. The spacecraft’s cabin filtration system will need to be effective at removing the airborne lunar dust to properly purify the breathable cabin air and minimize the spreading of the dust throughout the vehicle and orbital segments through the mission duration. The fine nature of the lunar dust will require high efficiency filtration, such as HEPA. A series of tests were performed in a specially designed recirculating sealed flow loop, for testing filter media and filter elements at the NASA Glenn Research Center. The flow loop was used to assess the performance and capacity of flat sheet filter media at representative cabin pressures using JSC-1AF lunar dust simulant and at high rates of particle loading. The pressure drop across the filter media was measured as a function of accumulated particle mass load at ambient pressure and at two sub-ambient pressures, 0.0703MPa and 0.0565MPa, and at a media velocity that was scaled relative to its pleated configuration. The challenge particle flows were generated by a custom designed particle generator that introduces dispersed particles of the lunar simulant at high concentrations. An optical particle counting instrument provided filter efficiency measurements within the sealed environment. The pressure drop was found to increase linearly with the amount of dust load on the media, for all test conditions, while the starting pressure drop was found to be lower at the lowest sub-ambient pressure case. High filter efficiency was maintained after high particle loads on the media.

Sub-ambient↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Particle Loading Tests on HEPA Flat Sheet Media at Sub-Ambient Pressures Using a Lunar Dust Simulant

When humans return to the moon under the NASA Artemis program, their activities on the lunar surface will inevitably lead to the intrusion of some level of lunar dust into the lander cabin. Therein the crew would be exposed to the potential hazards of lunar dust and the possibility of subsequent transfer into orbiting segments after docking. The spacecraft’s cabin filtration system will need to be effective at removing the airborne lunar dust to properly purify the breathable cabin air and minimize the spreading of the dust throughout the vehicle and orbital segments through the mission duration. The fine nature of the lunar dust will require high efficiency filtration, such as HEPA. A series of tests were performed in a specially designed recirculating sealed flow loop, for testing filter media and filter elements at the NASA Glenn Research Center. The flow loop was used to assess the performance and capacity of flat sheet filter media at representative cabin pressures using JSC-1AF lunar he filter media was measured as a function of accumulated particle mdust simulant and at high rates of particle loading. The pressure drop across tass load at ambient pressure and at two sub-ambient pressures, 0.0703MPa and 0.0565MPa, and at a media velocity that was scaled relative to its pleated configuration. The challenge particle flows were generated by a custom designed particle generator that introduces dispersed particles of the lunar simulant at high concentrations. An optical particle counting instrument provided filter efficiency measurements within the sealed environment. The pressure drop was found to increase linearly with the amount of dust load on the media, for all test conditions, while the starting pressure drop was found to be lower at the lowest sub-ambient pressure case. High filter efficiency was maintained after high particle loads on the media

Sub-ambient↗
NASA NTRS2005

Study of Velocity and Materials on Tribocharging of Polymer Powders for Powder Coating Applications

Electrostatic powder deposition is widely used in a plethora of industrial-applications ranging from the pharmaceutical and food.industries, to farm equipment and automotive applications. The disadvantages of this technique are possible back corona (pin-like formations) onset and the Faraday penetration limitation (when the powder does not penetrate in some recessed areas). A possible solution to overcome these problems is to use tribochargers to electrostatically charge the powder. Tribocharging, or contact charging while two materials are in contact, is related to the work function difference between the contacting materials and generates bipolarly charged particles. The generation of an ion-free powder cloud by tribocharging with high bipolar charge and an overall charge density of almost zero, provides a better coverage of the recessed areas. In this study, acrylic and epoxy powders were fluidized and charged by passing through stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and polycarbonate static mixers, respectively. The particle velocity was varied to determine its effect on the net charge-to-mass ratio (QIM) acquired by the powders. In general, the Q/M increases rapidly when the velocity was increased from 1.5 to 2.5 m/s, remaining almost constant for higher velocities. Charge separation experiments showed bipolar charging for all chargers.

Biris, Alex S.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Properties of cirrus generating cells.

Particle size spectra were measured during 20 hr of sampling in cirrus generating cells (uncinus, stratus, spissatus, thunderstorm anvil) and the particle concentration, mean crystal length, ice water content, reflectivity factor, and precipitation rate were calculated from these spectra. Average values of the physical properties in the generating cells were obtained. Growth was found to be downward, reaching a maximum ice water content just below the base of the generating cell. The maximum ice water contents (not including the thunderstorm anvil) were found in cirrus uncinus. Liquid water was not found throughout the cirrus sampling by measurement with the Johnson-Williams hot-wire liquid-water meter; however, it is believed that liquid water is present as a transient phase.

Heymsfield, A. J.↗
NASA NTRS2009

Vacuum arc plasma thrusters with inductive energy storage driver

A plasma thruster with a cylindrical inner and cylindrical outer electrode generates plasma particles from the application of energy stored in an inductor to a surface suitable for the formation of a plasma and expansion of plasma particles. The plasma production results in the generation of charged particles suitable for generating a reaction force, and the charged particles are guided by a magnetic field produced by the same inductor used to store the energy used to form the plasma.

Krishnan, Mahadevan↗
NASA NTRS1993

Gas-grain simulation experiment module conceptual design and gas-grain simulation facility breadboard development

This report delineates the Option portion of the Phase A Gas-Grain Simulation Facility study. The conceptual design of a Gas-Grain Simulation Experiment Module (GGSEM) for Space Shuttle Middeck is discussed. In addition, a laboratory breadboard was developed during this study to develop a key function for the GGSEM and the GGSF, specifically, a solid particle cloud generating device. The breadboard design and test results are discussed and recommendations for further studies are included. The GGSEM is intended to fly on board a low earth orbit (LEO), manned platform. It will be used to perform a subset of the experiments planned for the GGSF for Space Station Freedom, as it can partially accommodate a number of the science experiments. The outcome of the experiments performed will provide an increased understanding of the operational requirements for the GGSF. The GGSEM will also act as a platform to accomplish technology development and proof-of-principle experiments for GGSF hardware, and to verify concepts and designs of hardware for GGSF. The GGSEM will allow assembled subsystems to be tested to verify facility level operation. The technology development that can be accommodated by the GGSEM includes: GGSF sample generation techniques, GGSF on-line diagnostics techniques, sample collection techniques, performance of various types of sensors for environmental monitoring, and some off-line diagnostics. Advantages and disadvantages of several LEO platforms available for GGSEM applications are identified and discussed. Several of the anticipated GGSF experiments require the deagglomeration and dispensing of dry solid particles into an experiment chamber. During the GGSF Phase A study, various techniques and devices available for the solid particle aerosol generator were reviewed. As a result of this review, solid particle deagglomeration and dispensing were identified as key undeveloped technologies in the GGSF design. A laboratory breadboard version of a solid particle generation system was developed and characterization tests performed. The breadboard hardware emulates the functions of the GGSF solid particle cloud generator in a ground laboratory environment, but with some modifications, can be used on other platforms.

Zamel, James M.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Numerical techniques for large cosmological N-body simulations

Techniques for carrying out large N-body simulations of the gravitational evolution of clustering in the fundamental cube of an infinite periodic universe are described and compared. The accuracy of the forces derived from several commonly used particle mesh schemes is examined, showing how submesh resolution can be achieved by including short-range forces between particles by direct summation techniques. The time integration of the equations of motion is discussed, and the accuracy of the codes for various choices of 'time' variable and time step is tested by considering energy conservation as well as by direct analysis of particle trajectories. Methods for generating initial particle positions and velocities corresponding to a growing mode representation of a specified power spectrum of linear density fluctuations are described. The effects of force resolution are studied and different simulation schemes are compared. An algorithm is implemented for generating initial conditions by varying the number of particles, the initial amplitude of density fluctuations, and the initial peculiar velocity field.

Efstathiou, G.↗