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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 145 records · Page 8
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1985

Comparisons of various configurations of the edge delamination test for interlaminar fracture toughness

Various configurations of Edge Delamination Tension (EDT) test specimens, of both brittle (T300/5208) and toughened-matrix (T300/BP907) graphite reinforced composite laminates, were manufactured and tested. The mixed-mode interlaminar fracture toughness, G sub C, was measured using (30/30 sub 2/30/90 sub N)sub s, n=1 or 2, (35/-35/0/90) sub s and (35/0/-35/90) sub s layups designed to delaminate at low tensile strains. Laminates were made without inserts so that delaminations would form naturally between the central 90 deg plies and the adjacent angle plies. Laminates were also made with Teflon inserts implanted between the 90 deg plies and the adjacent angle (theta) plies at the straight edge to obtain a planar fracture surface. In addition, interlaminar tension fracture toughness, GIc, was measured from laminates with the same layup but with inserts in the midplane, between the central 90 deg plies, at the straight edge. All of the EDT configurations were useful for ranking the delamination resistance of composites with different matrix resins. Furthermore, the variety of layups and configurations available yield interlaminar fracture toughness measurements needed to generate delamination failure criteria. The influence of insert thickness and location, and coupon size on G sub c values were evaluated.

Obrien, T. K.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Single Cobalt Sites Dispersed in Hierarchically Porous Nanofiber Networks for Durable and High-Power PGM-Free Cathodes in Fuel Cells

Increasing catalytic activity and durability of atomically dispersed metal–nitrogen–carbon (M–N–C) catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) cathode in proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells remains a grand challenge. In this study, a high-power and durable Co–N–C nanofiber catalyst synthesized through electrospinning cobalt-doped zeolitic imidazolate frameworks into selected polyacrylonitrile and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) polymers is reported. The distinct porous fibrous morphology and hierarchical structures play a vital role in boosting electrode performance by exposing more accessible active sites, providing facile electron conductivity, and facilitating the mass transport of reactant. The enhanced intrinsic activity is attributed to the extra graphitic N dopants surrounding the CoN 4 moieties. The highly graphitized carbon matrix in the catalyst is beneficial for enhancing the carbon corrosion resistance, thereby promoting catalyst stability. The unique nanoscale X-ray computed tomography verifies the well-distributed ionomer coverage throughout the fibrous carbon network in the catalyst. The membrane electrode assembly achieves a power density of 0.40 W cm –2 in a practical H 2 /air cell (1.0 bar) and demonstrates significantly enhanced durability under accelerated stability tests. The combination of the intrinsic activity and stability of single Co sites, along with unique catalyst architecture, provide new insight into designing efficient PGM-free electrodes with improved performance and durability.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Phase change material-to-refrigerant heat exchangers: Experimental validation and uneven melting analysis

Thermal energy storage (TES) using phase change materials (PCMs) enables load shifting and reduces mismatches between the building's thermal demand and the heat pump (HP) system's thermal capacity. While most TES studies have focused on single-phase heat transfer fluids, PCM-to-refrigerant heat exchangers (PRHX), in which the refrigerant undergoes liquid-vapor phase change, remain largely underexplored. Here, to address this gap, this study systematically investigates a shell-and-tube PRHX operating as the condenser in an HP through experiments and simulations. A two-dimensional enthalpy-based finite-volume PRHX model was developed and validated against experimental data, including refrigerant and PCM temperature profiles, PRHX capacity, and system-level performance. Results show three characteristic stages: Stage I, the condenser temperature rapidly increases with PCM in the solid state absorbing sensible heat; Stage II, stable operation during PCM phase change; and Stage III, performance decline once part of the PCM becomes fully melted. Heat transfer analysis revealed that uneven PCM melting along the condenser length was driven primarily by variations in the refrigerant-side heat transfer coefficient, rather than local approach temperature differences. Further study demonstrated that minimizing refrigerant outlet subcooling led to more uniform PCM melting and extended Stages I and II by up to 89%. This paper provides a validated PRHX model, clarifies the mechanisms of uneven PCM melting, and highlights subcooling control as an effective strategy to improve TES performance in HP systems without requiring secondary loops.

Graphite matrix↗
DOE OSTI2021

Structural, Thermal, and Mechanical Characterization of a Thermally Conductive Polymer Composite for Heat Exchanger Applications

Polymer composites are being considered for numerous thermal applications because of their inherent benefits, such as light weight, corrosion resistance, and reduced cost. In this work, the microstructural, thermal, and mechanical properties of a 3D printed polymer composite with high thermal conductivity are examined using multiple characterization techniques. Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction reveal that the composite contains a polyphenylene sulfide matrix with graphitic fillers, which is responsible for the high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry determines that the glass transition and melting point of the composite are 87.6 °C and 285.6 °C, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals that the composite is thermally stable up to ~400 °C. Creep tests are performed at different isotherms to evaluate the long-term performance of the composite. The creep result indicates that the composite can maintain mechanical integrity when used below its glass transition temperature. Nanoindentation tests reveal that modulus and hardness of the composite is not significantly influenced by heating or creep conditions. These findings indicate that the composite is potentially suitable for heat exchanger applications.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1977

Preliminary evaluation of fiber composite reinforcement of truck frame rails

The use of graphite fiber/resin matrix composite to effectively reinforce a standard steel truck frame rail is studied. A preliminary design was made and it was determined that the reinforcement weight could be reduced by a factor of 10 when compared to a steel reinforcement. A section of a 1/3 scale reinforced rail was fabricated to demonstrate low cost manufacturing techniques. The scale rail section was then tested and increased stiffness was confirmed. No evidence of composite fatigue was found after 500,000 cycles to a fiber stress of 34,000 psi. The test specimen failed in bending in a static test at a load 50 percent greater than that predicted for a non-reinforced rail.

Faddoul, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1978

NR-150B2 adhesive development

Adhesive based polyimide solutions which are more easily processed than conventional aromatic polyimide systems and show potential for use for extended times at 589K are discussed. The adhesive system is based on a solution containing diglyme as the solvent and 2,2 bis(3',4'-dicarboxyphenyl)hexafluoropropane, paraphenylenediamine, and oxydianiline. The replacement of N-methylpyrrolidone with diglyme as the solvent was found to improve the adhesive strengths of lap shear samples and simplify the processing conditions for bonding both titanium and graphite fiber/polyimide matrix resin composites. Information was obtained on the effects of various environments including high humidity, immersion in jet fuel and methylethylketone on aluminum filled adhesive bonds. The adhesive was also evaluated in wide area bonds and flatwise tensile specimens using titanium honeycomb and composite face sheets. It was indicated that the developed adhesive system has the potential for use in applications requiring long term exposure to at least 589K (600 F).

Blatz, P. S.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Composites for Advanced Space Transportation Systems (CASTS)

A summary is given of the in-house and contract work accomplished under the CASTS Project. In July 1975 the CASTS Project was initiated to develop graphite fiber/polyimide matrix (GR/PI) composite structures with 589K (600 F) operational capability for application to aerospace vehicles. Major tasks include: (1) screening composites and adhesives, (2) developing fabrication procedures and specifications, (3) developing design allowables test methods and data, and (4) design and test of structural elements and construction of an aft body flap for the Space Shuttle Orbiter Vehicle which will be ground tested. Portions of the information are from ongoing research and must be considered preliminary. The CASTS Project is scheduled to be completed in September 1983.

Davis, J. G., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Composites for Advanced Space Transportation Systems - (CASTS)

The CASTS Project initiated to develop graphite fiber/polyimide matrix (GR/PI) composite structures with 589K operational capability for aerospace vehicles is described. Near term tasks include screening composites and adhesives for 589K service, developing fabrication procedures and specifications, developing design allowables test methods and data, design and test of structural elements, and construction of a full scale aft body flap for the space shuttle orbiter vehicle for ground testing. Far term tasks include research efforts directed at new materials, manufacturing procedures and design/analysis methodology. Specific results discussed include: (1) identification of four GR/PI composites and three PI adhesives with 589K service potential for periods ranging from 125 to 500 hours; (2) development of an adhesive formulation suitable for bonding reusable surface insulation (RSI) titles to 589K (GR/PI) substructure; (3) the capability to fabricate and nondestructively inspect laminates, hat section shaped stiffeners, honeycomb sandwich panels, and chopped fiber moldings; and (4) test methods for measuring design allowables at 117K.

Davis, J. G., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Mechanical property characterization of intraply hybrid composites

An investigation was conducted to characterize the mechanical properties of intraply hybrids made from graphite fiber/epoxy matrix (primary composites) hybridized with varying amounts of secondary composites made from S-glass or Kevlar 49 fibers. The tests were conducted using thin laminates having the same thickness. The specimens for these tests were instrumented with strain gages to determine stress-strain behavior. Significant results are included.

Chamis, C. C.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Mechanical property characterization of intraply hybrid composites

An investigation of the mechanical properties of intraply hybrids made from graphite fiber/epoxy matrix hybridized with secondary S-glass or Kevlar 49 fiber composites is presented. The specimen stress-strain behavior was determined, showing that mechanical properties of intraply hybrid composites can be measured with available methods such as the ten-degree off-axis test for intralaminar shear, and conventional tests for tensile, flexure, and Izod impact properties. The results also showed that combinations of high modulus graphite/S-glass/epoxy matrix composites exist which yield intraply hybrid laminates with the best 'balanced' properties, and that the translation efficiency of mechanical properties from the constituent composites to intraply hybrids may be assessed with a simple equation.

Chamis, C. C.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Spatial distribution of volatile compounds in graphite composites

The distribution of water and other volatile compounds such as acetone and phenol was measured as a function of depth in four graphite resin matrix composites. Precision abrasion mass spectrometry was used to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize the indigenous volatile compounds in the as received condition and after drying in an environmentally controlled oven. The total amount of water in the composites varied from 0.12 wt% to 1.1 wt% and the times required to dry the samples ranged from less than 96 h to much greater than 555 h.

Grayson, M. A.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Sizing Increases Fiber/Matrix Adhesion

Strengths of graphite fiber/polycarbonate matrix composites increased by precoating fibers with thin layer of polycarbonate. Flexural strengths of composite samples measured to determine effects of different fabrication conditions.

Cizmecioglu, Muzaffer↗
NASA NTRS1988

Thermostructural analysis of simulated cowl lips

Three dimensional finite element analyses using MSC/NASTRAN and MARC are performed to predict the thermal and structural response of various cooling schemes under high heat loads. Steady state heat transfer analyses and elastic stress analyses are performed using MSC/NASTRAN. Elastic/plastic analyses are done using MARC. To help verify these analyses experimentally, a hydrogen-oxygen rocket engine was modified to use the exhaust stream as a high enthalpy, high heat flux source to evaluate various actively cooled, simulated cowl lip (leading edges) segments as well as flat structural segments. Cross flow and parallel flow cooling configurations were tested and analyzed using cooling fluids of water and gaseous hydrogen. In addition, various material types, including high conductivity copper, nickel, and a copper and graphite metal matrix composite were tested and compared.

Melis, Matthew E.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Lightweight, Thermally Conductive Composite Material

Aluminum reinforced with carbon fibers superior to copper in some respects. Lightweight composite material has high thermal conductivity. Consists of aluminum matrix containing graphite fibers, all oriented in same direction. Available as sheets, tubes, and bars. Thermal conductivity of composite along fibers rises above that of pure copper over substantial range of temperatures. Graphite/aluminum composite useful in variety of heat-transfer applications in which reduction of weight critical. Used to conduct heat in high-density, high-speed integrated-circuit packages for computers and in base plates for electronic equipment. Also used to carry heat away from leading edges of wings in high-speed airplanes.

Sharp, G. Richard↗
NASA NTRS1990

FTIR Monitoring Of Curing Of Composites

Infrared-sensing optical fiber system developed to monitor principal infrared absorption bands resulting from vibrations of atoms and molecules as chemical bonds form when resin cured. System monitors resin chemistry more directly. Used to obtain Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum from graphite fiber/polyimide matrix resin prepreg. Embedded fiber optic FTIR sensor used to indicate state of cure of thermosetting composite material. Developed primarily to improve quality of advanced composites, many additional potential applications exist because principal of operation applicable to all organic materials and most inorganic gases. Includes monitoring integrities of composite materials in service, remote sensing of hazardous materials, and examination of processes in industrial reactors and furnaces.

Druy, Mark A.↗
NASA NTRS1990

The influence of buoyant forces and volume fraction of particles on the particle pushing/entrapment transition during directional solidification of Al/SiC and Al/graphite composites

Directional solidification experiments in a Bridgman-type furnace were used to study particle behavior at the liquid/solid interface in aluminum metal matrix composites. Graphite or silicon-carbide particles were first dispersed in aluminum-base alloys via a mechanically stirred vortex. Then, 100-mm-diameter and 120-mm-long samples were cast in steel dies and used for directional solidification. The processing variables controlled were the direction and velocity of solidification and the temperature gradient at the interface. The material variables monitored were the interface energy, the liquid/particle density difference, the particle/liquid thermal conductivity ratio, and the volume fraction of particles. These properties were changed by selecting combinations of particles (graphite or silicon carbide) and alloys (Al-Cu, Al-Mg, Al-Ni). A model which consideres process thermodynamics, process kinetics (including the role of buoyant forces), and thermophysical properties was developed. Based on solidification direction and velocity, and on materials properties, four types of behavior were predicted. Sessile drop experiments were also used to determine some of the interface energies required in calculation with the proposed model. Experimental results compared favorably with model predictions.

Stefanescu, Doru M.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Intercalated-Graphite-Fiber Composites

Electrically conducting composites made from bromine-intercalated graphite fibers in epoxy matrix. Bromine-intercalated graphite fibers have conductivity of about 20,000 ohm-1cm-1 and found to be stable in presence of moisture fibers even submerged for indefinite times) and at reasonably high temperature (200 degrees C). Conventional epoxy resins can be used with such fibers. Composite materials containing 50 percent bromine-intercalated graphite fibers have promising properties. Mechanical properties of composites similar to composites made with pristine fibers: Tensile and flexural strengths and Young's and bending moduli essentially unchanged, and interlaminar shear strengths slightly enhanced. Thermal conductivities of composites also show very little degradation. However, electrical conductivities of composites increase, which invites application of composites in electrical grounding planes and in shields against electro-magnetic interference.

Gaier, James R.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Composite Cocured Modular Eggcrate-Core Sandwich Structure

Lightweight composite-material (e.g., graphite fiber/epoxy matrix) cocured sandwich panels with eggcratelike cores developed for use as principal components of optical benches and other structures that support precise optical instruments. Structures offer greater thermal and mechanical stability. Advantages include easier fabrication and better mechanical properties.

Magurany, Charles J.↗