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At least 1,297 records · Page 72

Nonlinear stability of oscillatory core-annular flow: A generalized Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation with time periodic coefficients

In this paper the nonlinear stability of two-phase core-annular flow in a pipe is examined when the acting pressure gradient is modulated by time harmonic oscillations and viscosity stratification and interfacial tension is present. An exact solution of the Navier-Stokes equations is used as the background state to develop an asymptotic theory valid for thin annular layers, which leads to a novel nonlinear evolution describing the spatio-temporal evolution of the interface. The evolution equation is an extension of the equation found for constant pressure gradients and generalizes the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation with dispersive effects found by Papageorgiou, Maldarelli & Rumschitzki, Phys. Fluids A 2(3), 1990, pp. 340-352, to a similar system with time periodic coefficients. The distinct regimes of slow and moderate flow are considered and the corresponding evolution is derived. Certain solutions are described analytically in the neighborhood of the first bifurcation point by use of multiple scales asymptotics. Extensive numerical experiments, using dynamical systems ideas, are carried out in order to evaluate the effect of the oscillatory pressure gradient on the solutions in the presence of a constant pressure gradient.

Coward, Adrian V.↗

Parameter dimension of turbulence-induced phase errors and its effects on estimation in phase diversity

The method of phase diversity has been used in the context of incoherent imaging to estimate jointly an object that is being imaged and phase aberrations induced by atmospheric turbulence. The method requires a parametric model for the phase-aberration function. Typically, the parameters are coefficients to a finite set of basis functions. Care must be taken in selecting a parameterization that properly balances accuracy in the representation of the phase-aberration function with stability in the estimates. It is well known that over parameterization can result in unstable estimates. Thus a certain amount of model mismatch is often desirable. We derive expressions that quantify the bias and variance in object and aberration estimates as a function of parameter dimension.

Thelen, Brian J.↗

Stability of Wavy Films in Gas-Liquid Two-Phase Flows at Normal and Microgravity Conditions

For flow rates of technological interest, most gas-liquid flows in pipes are in the annular flow regime, in which, the liquid moves along the pipe wall in a thin, wavy film and the gas flows in the core region. The waves appearing on the liquid film have a profound influence on the transfer rates, and hence on the design of these systems. We have recently proposed and analyzed two boundary layer models that describe the characteristics of laminar wavy films at high Reynolds numbers (300-1200). Comparison of model predictions to 1-g experimental data showed good agreement. The goal of our present work is to understand through a combined program of experimental and modeling studies the characteristics of wavy films in annular two-phase gas-liquid flows under normal as well as microgravity conditions in the developed and entry regions.

Balakotaiah, V.↗

Aeroelastic Stability Computations for Turbomachinery

This paper describes an aeroelastic analysis program for turbomachines. Unsteady Navier-Stokes equations are solved on dynamically deforming, body fitted, grid to obtain the aeroelastic characteristics. Blade structural response is modeled using a modal representation of the blade and the work-per-cycle method is used to evaluate the stability characteristics. Nonzero interblade phase angle is modeled using phase-lagged boundary conditions. Results obtained showed good correlation with existing experimental, analytical, and numerical results. Numerical analysis also showed that given the computational resources available today, engineering solutions with good accuracy are possible using higher fidelity analyses.

Srivastava, R.↗

The Propagation and Formation of Electron Holes

One of the striking findings of the International Solar Terrestrial Physics (ISTP) program is the detection of electron holes by several satellites in different regions of the magnetosphere, near the bow shock, and in the solar wind. These measurements have come from FAST (Fast Auroral Snapshot Explorer), Polar, Geotail, and Wind satellites. Using a 2-D (two dimensional) PIC (particle in cell) code we investigate the parameters of one and two electron beams on the evolution, structure, and stability of electron phase-space holes.

Coffey, Victoria↗

Novel High Efficient Organic Photovoltaic Materials: Final Summary of Research

The objectives and goals of this project were to investigate and develop high efficient, lightweight, and cost effective materials for potential photovoltaic applications, such as solar energy conversion or photo detector devices. Specifically, as described in the original project proposal, the target material to be developed was a block copolymer system containing an electron donating (or p-type) conjugated polymer block coupled to an electron withdrawing (or n-type) conjugated polymer block through a non-conjugated bridge unit. Due to several special requirements of the targeted block copolymer systems, such as electron donating and withdrawing substituents, conjugated block structures, processing requirement, stability requirement, size controllability, phase separation and self ordering requirement, etc., many traditional or commonly used block copolymer synthetic schemes are not suitable for this system. Therefore, the investigation and development of applicable and effective synthetic protocols became the most critical and challenging part of this project. During the entire project period, and despite the lack of a proposed synthetic polymer postdoctoral research associate due to severe shortage of qualified personnel in the field, several important accomplishments were achieved in this project and are briefly listed and elaborated. A more detailed research and experimental data is listed in the Appendix.

Sun, Sam↗

Cool Flames in Propane-Oxygen Premixtures at Low and Intermediate Temperatures at Reduced-Gravity

The Cool Flame Experiment aims to address the role of diffusive transport on the structure and the stability of gas-phase, non-isothermal, hydrocarbon oxidation reactions, cool flames and auto-ignition fronts in an unstirred, static reactor. These reactions cannot be studied on Earth where natural convection due to self-heating during the course of slow reaction dominates diffusive transport and produces spatio-temporal variations in the thermal and thus species concentration profiles. On Earth, reactions with associated Rayleigh numbers (Ra) less than the critical Ra for onset of convection (Ra(sub cr) approx. 600) cannot be achieved in laboratory-scale vessels for conditions representative of nearly all low-temperature reactions. In fact, the Ra at 1g ranges from 10(exp 4) - 10(exp 5) (or larger), while at reduced-gravity, these values can be reduced two to six orders of magnitude (below Ra(sub cr)), depending on the reduced-gravity test facility. Currently, laboratory (1g) and NASA s KC-135 reduced-gravity (g) aircraft studies are being conducted in parallel with the development of a detailed chemical kinetic model that includes thermal and species diffusion. Select experiments have also been conducted at partial gravity (Martian, 0.3gearth) aboard the KC-135 aircraft. This paper discusses these preliminary results for propane-oxygen premixtures in the low to intermediate temperature range (310- 350 C) at reduced-gravity.

Pearlman, Howard↗

Two-Phase Flow Technology Developed and Demonstrated for the Vision for Exploration

NASA s vision for exploration will once again expand the bounds of human presence in the universe with planned missions to the Moon and Mars. To attain the numerous goals of this vision, NASA will need to develop technologies in several areas, including advanced power-generation and thermal-control systems for spacecraft and life support. The development of these systems will have to be demonstrated prior to implementation to ensure safe and reliable operation in reduced-gravity environments. The Two-Phase Flow Facility (T(PHI) FFy) Project will provide the path to these enabling technologies for critical multiphase fluid products. The safety and reliability of future systems will be enhanced by addressing focused microgravity fluid physics issues associated with flow boiling, condensation, phase separation, and system stability, all of which are essential to exploration technology. The project--a multiyear effort initiated in 2004--will include concept development, normal-gravity testing (laboratories), reduced gravity aircraft flight campaigns (NASA s KC-135 and C-9 aircraft), space-flight experimentation (International Space Station), and model development. This project will be implemented by a team from the NASA Glenn Research Center, QSS Group, Inc., ZIN Technologies, Inc., and the Extramural Strategic Research Team composed of experts from academia.

Sankovic, John M.↗

Progress on 10 Kelvin cryo-cooled sapphire oscillator

We present recent progress on the 10 Kelvin Cryocooled Sapphire Oscillator (10K CSO). Included are incorporation of a new pulse tube cryocooler, cryocooler vibration comparisons between G-M and pulse-tube types, phase noise, and frequency stability tests. For the advantage of a single stage pulse tube cryocooler, we also present results for a 40K Compensated Sapphire Oscillator (40K CSO).

sapphire↗

Dynamical Modeling and Control Simulation of a Large Flexible Launch Vehicle

This paper presents dynamical models of a large flexible launch vehicle. A complete set of coupled dynamical models of propulsion, aerodynamics, guidance and control, structural dynamics, fuel sloshing, and thrust vector control dynamics are described. Such dynamical models are used to validate NASA s SAVANT Simulink-based program which is being used for the preliminary flight control systems analysis and design of NASA s Ares-1 Crew Launch Vehicle. SAVANT simulation results for validating the performance and stability of an ascent phase autopilot system of Ares-1 are also presented.

Du, Wei↗

NASA Tech Briefs, April 2007

Topics include: Wearable Environmental and Physiological Sensing Unit; Broadband Phase Retrieval for Image-Based Wavefront Sensing; Filter Function for Wavefront Sensing Over a Field of View; Iterative-Transform Phase Retrieval Using Adaptive Diversity; Wavefront Sensing With Switched Lenses for Defocus Diversity; Smooth Phase Interpolated Keying; Maintaining Stability During a Conducted-Ripple EMC Test; Photodiode Preamplifier for Laser Ranging With Weak Signals; Advanced High-Definition Video Cameras; Circuit for Full Charging of Series Lithium-Ion Cells; Analog Nonvolatile Computer Memory Circuits; JavaGenes Molecular Evolution; World Wind 3D Earth Viewing; Lithium Dinitramide as an Additive in Lithium Power Cells; Accounting for Uncertainties in Strengths of SiC MEMS Parts; Ion-Conducting Organic/Inorganic Polymers; MoO3 Cathodes for High-Temperature Lithium Thin-Film Cells; Counterrotating-Shoulder Mechanism for Friction Stir Welding; Strain Gauges Indicate Differential-CTE-Induced Failures; Antibodies Against Three Forms of Urokinase; Understanding and Counteracting Fatigue in Flight Crews; Active Correction of Aberrations of Low-Quality Telescope Optics; Dual-Beam Atom Laser Driven by Spinor Dynamics; Rugged, Tunable Extended-Cavity Diode Laser; Balloon for Long-Duration, High-Altitude Flight at Venus; and Wide-Temperature-Range Integrated Operational Amplifier.

Source record↗

Composite Solid Electrolyte Containing Li+- Conducting Fibers

Improved composite solid polymer electrolytes (CSPEs) are being developed for use in lithium-ion power cells. The matrix components of these composites, like those of some prior CSPEs, are high-molecular-weight dielectric polymers [generally based on polyethylene oxide (PEO)]. The filler components of these composites are continuous, highly-Li(+)-conductive, inorganic fibers. PEO-based polymers alone would be suitable for use as solid electrolytes, were it not for the fact that their room-temperature Li(+)-ion conductivities lie in the range between 10(exp -6) and 10(exp -8) S/cm, too low for practical applications. In a prior approach to formulating a CSPE, one utilizes nonconductive nanoscale inorganic filler particles to increase the interfacial stability of the conductive phase. The filler particles also trap some electrolyte impurities. The achievable increase in conductivity is limited by the nonconductive nature of the filler particles.

Appleby, A. John↗

Space Launch System Implementation of Adaptive Augmenting Control

Given the complex structural dynamics, challenging ascent performance requirements, and rigorous flight certification constraints owing to its manned capability, the NASA Space Launch System (SLS) launch vehicle requires a proven thrust vector control algorithm design with highly optimized parameters to robustly demonstrate stable and high performance flight. On its development path to preliminary design review (PDR), the stability of the SLS flight control system has been challenged by significant vehicle flexibility, aerodynamics, and sloshing propellant dynamics. While the design has been able to meet all robust stability criteria, it has done so with little excess margin. Through significant development work, an adaptive augmenting control (AAC) algorithm previously presented by Orr and VanZwieten, has been shown to extend the envelope of failures and flight anomalies for which the SLS control system can accommodate while maintaining a direct link to flight control stability criteria (e.g. gain & phase margin). In this paper, the work performed to mature the AAC algorithm as a baseline component of the SLS flight control system is presented. The progress to date has brought the algorithm design to the PDR level of maturity. The algorithm has been extended to augment the SLS digital 3-axis autopilot, including existing load-relief elements, and necessary steps for integration with the production flight software prototype have been implemented. Several updates to the adaptive algorithm to increase its performance, decrease its sensitivity to expected external commands, and safeguard against limitations in the digital implementation are discussed with illustrating results. Monte Carlo simulations and selected stressing case results are shown to demonstrate the algorithm's ability to increase the robustness of the integrated SLS flight control system.

VanZwieten, Tannen S.↗

Forced Reconnection in the Near Magnetotail: Onset and Energy Conversion in PIC and MHD Simulations

Using two-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) together with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Q1 simulations of magnetotail dynamics, we investigate the evolution toward onset of reconnection and the subsequent energy transfer and conversion. In either case, reconnection onset is preceded by a driven phase, during which magnetic flux is added to the tail at the high-latitude boundaries, followed by a relaxation phase, during which the configuration continues to respond to the driving. The boundary deformation leads to the formation of thin embedded current sheets, which are bifurcated in the near tail, converging to a single sheet farther out in the MHD simulations. The thin current sheets in the PIC simulation are carried by electrons and are associated with a strong perpendicular electrostatic field, which may provide a connection to parallel potentials and auroral arcs and an ionospheric signal even prior to the onset of reconnection. The PIC simulation very well satisfies integral entropy conservation (intrinsic to ideal MHD) during this phase, supporting ideal ballooning stability. Eventually, the current intensification leads to the onset of reconnection, the formation and ejection of a plasmoid, and a collapse of the inner tail. The earthward flow shows the characteristics of a dipolarization front: enhancement of Bz, associated with a thin vertical electron current sheet in the PIC simulation. Both MHD and PIC simulations show a dominance of energy conversion from incoming Poynting flux to outgoing enthalpy flux, resulting in heating of the inner tail. Localized Joule dissipation plays only a minor role.

two-dimensional↗

Facile Synthesis of Micrometer-sized Hierarchical Porous Si@C Anodes for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

Extensive studies have been conducted to determine if replacing graphite anodes with silicon is feasible since silicon possesses a high capacity and is an abundant resource; however, Si anodes suffer significant volume changes during cycling, which pulverizes its structure and subsequently causes rapid capacity fading. We used SiO2 nanoparticles (nSiO2) and low-cost coal-derived humic acid as a feedstock to synthesize high performance Si-C anodes for Li-ion Batteries through spray drying, calcination, and magnesiothermic reductions. Our Si-C anodes features micrometer-sized porous Si coated with a graphitized carbon shell (mpSi@C). The hierarchical graphitized carbon shell and porous silicon structure relieve the mechanical stress of the Si phase upon cycling, which stabilizes the structure. This mpSi@C composite design allows for a high initial discharge capacity of 2199.9 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 and a cycling performance of 68% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 1.0 A g-1. The multipoint contact between the Si anode and C structure allows for a remarkable performance rate of 566.3 mAh g-1 at 5.0 A g-1.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗

Development of BPM electronics for PIP-II at Fermilab

This paper presents the uTCA4.0-based BPM electronics for PIP-II, featuring four 250 MSPS ADCs and a Xilinx UltraScale+ MPSoC FPGA with 10 GbE uplink. Design elements include signal conditioning, clock, and thermal management. The FPGA performs signal processing, time tagging, digital down-conversion, and phase drift compensation. Position and phase resolution, and thermal stability - is validated through dedicated testing.

Liu, Shengli [Fermilab] (ORCID:0009000128436936)↗

Controlling thermoelectric transport via native defects in the diamond-like semiconductors Cu 2 HgGeTe 4 and Hg 2 GeTe 4

Diamond like semiconductors (DLS) have emerged as candidates for thermoelectric energy conversion. Towards understanding and optimizing performance, we present a comprehensive investigation of the electronic properties of two DLS phases, quaternary Cu 2 HgGeTe 4 and related ordered vacancy compound Hg 2 GeTe 4 , including thermodynamic stability, defect chemistry, and transport properties. To establish the thermodynamic link between the related but distinct phases, the stability region for both is visualized in chemical potential space. In spite of their similar structure and bonding, we show that the two materials exhibit reciprocal behaviors for dopability. Cu 2 HgGeTe 4 is degenerately p-type in all environments despite its wide stability region, due to the presence of low-energy acceptor defects V Cu and Cu Hg and is resistant to extrinsic n-type doping. Meanwhile Hg 2 GeTe 4 has a narrow stability region and intrinsic behavior due to the relatively high formation energy of native defects, but presents an opportunity for bi-polar doping. While these two compounds have similar structure, bonding, and chemical constituents, the reciprocal nature of their dopability emerges from significant differences in band edge positions. A Brouwer band diagram approach is utilized to visualize the role of native defects on carrier concentrations, dopability, and transport properties. Here this study elucidates the doping asymmetry between two solid-solution forming DLS phases Cu 2 HgGeTe 4 and Hg 2 GeTe 4 by revealing the defect chemistry of each compound, and suggests design strategies for defect engineering of DLS phases.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗

Pressure-induced crystallization of an amorphous martensite alloy

Recently, solid-state amorphization through temperature-induced martensitic transition has been reported. The stability of the amorphous martensite phase, which co-exists with a crystalline counterpart, is intriguing but remains ill-defined. In this work, we studied the structural stability of a Ti 59.1 Zr 37 Cu 2.3 Fe 1.6 amorphous martensite alloy by combining in situ high-pressure synchrotron x-ray diffraction with ex situ transmission electron microscopy. During compression at room temperature, an irreversible pressure-induced crystallization of the amorphous martensite phase into a β-Ti phase is revealed. Qualitative analysis reveals the important role of the local atomic strain in stabilizing/destabilizing amorphous martensite alloys and its high tunability of the local atomic strain under high pressure.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗