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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 199 records · Page 11
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Programmable nanowrinkle-induced room-temperature exciton localization in monolayer WSe2

Abstract Localized states in two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have been the subject of intense study, driven by potential applications in quantum information science. Despite the rapidly growing knowledge surrounding these emitters, their microscopic nature is still not fully understood, limiting their production and application. Motivated by this challenge, and by recent theoretical and experimental evidence showing that nanowrinkles generate strain-localized room-temperature emitters, we demonstrate a method to intentionally induce wrinkles with collections of stressors, showing that long-range wrinkle direction and position are controllable with patterned array design. Nano-photoluminescence (nano-PL) imaging combined with detailed strain modeling based on measured wrinkle topography establishes a correlation between wrinkle properties, particularly shear strain, and localized exciton emission. Beyond the array-induced wrinkles, nano-PL spatial maps further reveal that the strain environment around individual stressors is heterogeneous due to the presence of fine wrinkles that are less deterministic. At cryogenic temperatures, antibunched emission is observed, confirming that the nanocone-induced strain is sufficiently large for the formation of quantum emitters. At 300 K, detailed nanoscale hyperspectral images uncover a wide range of low-energy emission peaks originating from the fine wrinkles, and show that the states can be tightly confined to regions <10 nm, even in ambient conditions. These results establish a promising potential route towards realizing room temperature quantum emission in 2D TMDC systems.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2024

Quantum ghost imaging microscopy depth-of-field study

Quantum ghost imaging approaches have been proposed to enhance biological microscopy, for example, using 2D visible detectors to provide IR images or providing additional dimensions of spatial or spectral information. Toward the goal of making such imaging schemes practical, we compare image quality and depth-of-field between traditional images and ghost images at the same excitation levels. We measure how image quality and depth-of-field depend on the parameters of the entangled light produced using type-I spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC). We use a pair of time-synchronized, photon-timing single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array detectors to capture two distinct microscope imaging paths simultaneously on a photon-pair-by-photon-pair basis: one in a traditional imaging pathway and the other a quantum ghost imaging pathway. We calculate the depth-of-field, resolution, contrast, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) through the parameter space of a β-Barium Borate (BBO) type-I bulk non-linear crystal length and angle. Our results provide a basis for choosing parameters for quantum ghost imaging with type-I SPDC sources.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2020

Geophysical monitoring using active seismic techniques at the Citronelle Alabama CO 2 storage demonstration site

Between August 2012 and September 2014, about 114,000 metric tonnes of CO 2 was captured from the coal-fired Plant Barry Power Station at Bucks Alabama and injected into the Paluxy Formation above the oil pool in the southeast unit of the Citronelle Oilfield. Various monitoring methods were deployed at land surface and in project wells to measure system performance, comply with permit requirements and test new and innovative monitoring tools. The monitoring program relied heavily on active seismic methods for subsurface imaging of geologic structure and time-lapse seismic techniques to track the CO 2 migration in the injection interval. Both conventional geophone/hydrophone and fiber-optic based Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) arrays were deployed and tested, allowing a side by side comparison of the equipment and techniques. Geophysical imaging of the subsurface was successful using DAS in the offset vertical seismic profile (OVSP) survey configuration. A high resolution OVSP image of the subsurface was obtained in 2014 with DAS, which exceeded project expectations in comparison to a lower resolution image obtained in 2012 using a conventional 80-level geophone array. A time-lapse image of the redistribution of CO 2 after injection ended in September 2014 was obtained with two DAS OVSP surveys from June 2014 and December 2015, thus successfully demonstrating its proof-of-concept. Unfortunately, a pre-injection baseline survey with DAS, which was in its initial stage of technology development in 2012, did not have sufficient quality for use, making it difficult to interpret the acquired DAS time-lapse difference. Additional research in this area has since demonstrated the utility of time-lapse DAS OVSP. DAS data were also acquired during a cross-well seismic survey conducted in 2014. Unfortunately, the DAS technique was not success in the cross-well survey configuration because the system noise level was too high in the crosswell frequency output range (100–1200 Hz) of the piezoelectric source (increasing by a factor of ten compared to VSP frequency band). Additionally, the cross-well geometry causes sub-horizontal (broadside) incidence on the vertical DAS fiber cable, which is known to be problematic. Current research is focused on improving the DAS cable response to broadside acoustic energy. Time-lapse seismic surveys using commercially available conventional arrays were also acquired. In contrast to the DAS acquired data, the cross-well seismic results obtained with the conventional array was highly successful and clearly showed the CO 2 remained in zone at the end of injection. Time-lapse differencing of the OSVP surveys acquired with the conventional arrays proved to be inconclusive. Finally, changes in wellbore conditions between surveys and unavoidable changes in equipment (the array used for the baseline survey was retired) affected data quality, making it difficult to interpret the OVSP results.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2022

Geophysical Characterization and Monitoring of the 200 Area Treated Effluent Disposal Facility to Support Permit Renewal; TEDF Geophysical Monitoring

The Treated Effluent Disposal Facility (TEDF), located in the 200 East Area of the Hanford Site, is a site where non-hazardous and non-radioactive liquid wastes are disposed into two state-permitted infiltration basins. In 2016, the Washington State Department of Ecology denied a permit renewal request for TEDF due to the inability to adequately assess the impact of TEDF discharge water on the underlying groundwater quality. TEDF overlies the relatively impermeable Ringold Lower Mud (RLM) unit, whose upper contact lies in the vadose zone approximately 30 m below ground surface and approximately 10 m above the water table boundary. The RLM is assumed to isolate TEDF discharge water from the natural groundwater aquifer, which is monitored using wellbores screened below the RLM. Therefore, samples collected from monitoring wells near TEDF are not considered representative of TEDF discharge water. Rather, TEDF discharge water is assumed to mound on top of the RLM to form a perched aquifer. To support permitting of the TEDF, a new monitoring well is required that can be used to sample water from the presumed perched water aquifer above the RLM. Ideally, the screened section of the well would be located at the peak of the perched water mound(s), which presumably occurs at the point of maximum vertical flux from TEDF to the RLM, or equivalently where the dominant infiltration flow paths reach the RLM. This report describes how time-lapse 3D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was used in conjunction with nominal TEDF discharge operations to image the dominant flow paths from each pond to the RLM. Results are summarized in Figure ES.1. Figure ES.1A shows a satellite image of the TEDF overlain by an array of surface ERT electrodes. The solid and dashed black circles denote the zones of maximum vertical flux at the RLM within the south and north ponds, respectively, and presumably the regions where perched water peaks during discharge. Figure ES.1B shows time-lapse difference imaging results approximately 15 days after switching discharge from the south pond to the north pond. Blue iso-surfaces beneath the north pond denote regions of increasing bulk electrical conductivity caused by increasing saturation due to infiltrating water. Red iso-surfaces beneath the south pond denote regions that were previously saturated during the south pond discharge and are now de-saturating, causing a decrease in bulk electrical conductivity. In both cases, the zones of maximum change mark the dominant flow paths to the RLM. Figure ES.1C shows time-lapse imaging results approximately 15 days after switching discharge from the north pond to the south pond. In this case, blue iso-surfaces mark the dominant flow paths to the RLM from the south pond. The red iso-surfaces mark the dominant flow paths that existed during discharge to the north pond. The regions of maximum change in bulk conductivity (due to saturation or desaturation) that mark the primary flow paths are equivalent in both cases and denoted by the dashed solid and black circles. If a perched water zone forms on the RLM, it is likely to mound within or near the dashed circle during discharge to the north pond, and in the solid circle during discharge to the south pond. In other words, if perched water mounding occurs, the circles mark the optimum locations suggested by the ERT imaging for monitoring boreholes to be placed, enabling samples to be collected that are representative of TEDF discharge impacts on groundwater quality.

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗
DOE OSTI2025

An on-chip phased array for non-classical light

Abstract Quantum science and technology can offer fundamental enhancements in sensing, communications and computing. The expansion from wired to wireless links is an exciting prospect for quantum technologies. For classical technologies, the advent of phased arrays enabled directional and adaptive wireless links by manipulating electromagnetic waves over free space. Here we demonstrate a phased array system on a chip that can receive, image and manipulate non-classical light over free space. We use an integrated photonic-electronic system with more than 1000 functional components on-chip to detect squeezed light. By integrating an array of 32 sub-wavelength engineered metamaterial antennas, we demonstrate a direct free-space-to-chip interface for reconfigurable quantum links. On the same chip, we implement a large-scale array of quantum-limited coherent receivers that can resolve non-classical signals simultaneously across 32 channels. With coherent readout and manipulation of these signals, we demonstrate 32-pixel imaging and spatially configurable reception of squeezed light over free space. Our work advances wireless quantum technologies that could enable practical applications in quantum communications and sensing.

Science & Technology - Other Topics↗
DOE OSTI2021

High-resolution Bayesian spatial autocorrelation (SPAC) quasi-3-D Vs model of Utah FORGE site with a dense geophone array

SUMMARY We expand the application of spatial autocorrelation (SPAC) from typical 1-D Vs profiles to quasi-3-D imaging via Bayesian Monte Carlo inversion (BMCI) using a dense nodal array (49 nodes) located at the Utah Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) site. Combinations of 4 and 9 geophones in subarrays provide for 36 and 25 1-D Vs profiles, respectively. Profiles with error bars are determined by calculating coherency functions that fit observations in a frequency range of 0.2–5 Hz. Thus, a high-resolution quasi-3-D Vs model from the surface to 2.0 km depth is derived and shows that surface-parallel sedimentary strata deepen to the west, consistent with a 3-D seismic reflection survey. Moreover, the resulting Vs profile is consistent with a Vs profile derived from distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) data located in a borehole at the FORGE site. The quasi-3-D velocity model shows that the base of the basin dips ∼22° to the west and topography on the basement interface coincident with the Mag Lee Wash suggests that the bedrock interface is an unconformity.

Geochemistry & Geophysics↗
DOE OSTI2023

Correlative montage parallel array cryo-tomography for in situ structural cell biology

Abstract Imaging large fields of view while preserving high-resolution structural information remains a challenge in low-dose cryo-electron tomography. Here we present robust tools for montage parallel array cryo-tomography (MPACT) tailored for vitrified specimens. The combination of correlative cryo-fluorescence microscopy, focused-ion-beam milling, substrate micropatterning, and MPACT supports studies that contextually define the three-dimensional architecture of cells. To further extend the flexibility of MPACT, tilt series may be processed in their entirety or as individual tiles suitable for sub-tomogram averaging, enabling efficient data processing and analysis.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2024

Optimized Viewing Techniques to Minimize Radiation Damage From X-ray Imaging Systems

X-ray inspection of ball grid arrays (BGAs) is typically performed at one or more viewing angles to examine adhesion sites for errors such as voids, joint cracking, or head-in-pillow. During this inspection process, the cir cuit board assembly is subject to ionizing radiation exposure, which can cause trapped charge within oxide layers of semiconductor devices. Some x-ray machines allow for programmable inspection routines, which could be used to optimize radiation exposure to semiconductor components. Using Monte Carlo methods, x-ray inspection of a BGA was simulated to determine a range of acceptable viewing angles. Dose rates to circuit board components were estimated at each inspection angle to determine the view resulting in optimized radiation exposure. Results showed that for each BGA, the maximum unobstructed viewing times without exceeding a 5 Gy dose limit to a single part ranged from 82 to 94 minutes. Using a radiation cost function method, optimized viewing across all components was found. Here, it was observed that for a consistent dose limit applied to silicon-based components, performing inspection with BGAs facing the x-ray source was optimal. A third method was applied, assigning individual dose limits based on empirical data from the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center radiation database. This method showed that optimized viewing maximizes the distance between the radiation source and highly sensitive components. It was also observed that cumulative effects from viewing two BGAs will influence viewing angles, causing the optimal view of one BGA to exist nearly 180° from the other.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2024

Source shape estimation for neutron imaging systems using convolutional neural networks

Neutron imaging systems are important diagnostic tools for characterizing the physics of inertial confinement fusion reactions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In particular, neutron images give diagnostic information on the size, symmetry, and shape of the fusion hot spot and surrounding cold fuel. Images are formed via collection of neutron flux from the source using a system of aperture arrays and scintillator-based detectors. Currently, reconstruction of fusion source geometry from the collected neutron images is accomplished by solving a computationally intensive maximum likelihood estimation problem via expectation maximization. In contrast, it is often useful to have simple representations of the overall source geometry that can be computed quickly. In this work, we develop convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to reconstruct the outer contours of simple source geometries. We compare the performance of the CNN for penumbral and pinhole data and provide experimental demonstrations of our methods on both non-noisy and noisy data.

Machine learning, neutron imaging, source reconstr↗
DOE OSTI2025

Fundamental physics opportunities with future ground-based mm/sub-mm VLBI arrays

The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) Collaboration recently published the first images of the supermassive black holes in the cores of the Messier 87 and Milky Way galaxies. These observations have provided a new means to study supermassive black holes and probe physical processes occurring in the strong-field regime. We review the prospects of future observations and theoretical studies of supermassive black hole systems. Current ground-based very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI) arrays like the EHT and proposed future extensions like the next-generation Event Horizon Telescope will greatly enhance the capabilities of black-hole imaging interferometry. These enhancements will open up several previously inaccessible avenues of investigation, thereby providing important new insights into the properties of supermassive black holes and their environments. This review describes the current state of knowledge for five key science cases, summarising the unique challenges and opportunities for fundamental physics investigations that future mm/sub-mm VLBI developments will enable.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2022

System Response Characterization for a d–t Neutron Radiography System

We report the system response of a pixelated associated particle imaging (API) neutron radiography system. The detector readout currently consists of a 2x2 array of organic glass scintillator detectors, each with an 8x8 array of optically isolated pixels that match the size and pitch of the ARRAYJ-60035-64P-PCB Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) array from SensL/onsemi with 6x6 mm 2 SiPMs. The alpha screen of the API deuterium-tritium neutron generator is read out with the S13361-3050AE-08 from Hamamatsu, which is an 8x8 array of 3x3 mm 2 SiPMs. Data from the 320 channel system is acquired with the TOFPET2-based readout system. We present the predicted imaging capability of an eventual 5x5 detector array, the waveform-based energy and pulse shape characterization of the individual detectors, and the timing and energy response from the TOFPET2 system.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2025

Simulations of muon imaging with the LANL GMT detector for spent nuclear fuel cask content verification

Atmospheric muons are typically high energy, highly penetrating charged particles. They interact with matter primarily through multiple Coulomb scatterings. Muon scattering intensities can be used to characterize the density and atomic number of the matter that they pass through. Previously, the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) muon tomography team performed muon imaging of the partially filled MC-10 spent nuclear fuel (SNF) cask at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). This experiment demonstrated the feasibility of muon imaging for the verification of spent fuel container contents. That original effort used the mini muon tracker array, consisting of two arrays of drift tubes on either side of the SNF cask. The reconstructed image quality was limited by statistics, largely due to low muon flux at high zenith angles. A LANL led team will perform new measurements with a larger array, the Giant Muon Tracker (GMT), to improve data collection rates and statistics. In this work, simulations were performed with the GMT near the partially filled INL MC-10 cask. For more general fuel diversion detection, a full MC-10 cask and casks with a singular missing fuel bundle were also simulated. To understand minimum measurement times needed for missing bundle identification, 100 000 to millions of tracked muons (corresponding to 1.4 days to several weeks measurement time) were analyzed. Simulated images were then analyzed visually and numerically to explore techniques designed to minimize the collection time needed to identify the diversion of fuel in each scenario.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Visibility and annoyance of the phantom array effect varies with age and history of migraine

The phantom array effect (PAE) is a series of repeated images that may be perceived when a person moves their eyes in large saccades across a light source (or a specular reflection of that light source) that is modulating in output over time. Fifty-five people, including a group of 25 who experience migraine, evaluated the visibility and annoyingness of phantom arrays produced by 85 unique temporal light modulation waveforms (including sine, rectangular, complex and DC waveforms) generated using an LED placed against a black background. Those with migraine exhibited higher average visibility compared to those without migraine ( p = 0.019) and were relatively more sensitive at higher frequencies ( p < 0.001). Younger participants also found more stimuli to be visible ( p < 0.001). The threshold sensitivity function was similar to that developed for the phantom array visibility measure (PAVM), and PAVM was effective in predicting visibility ( R 2 = 0.87 for the relevant region of PAVM < 3). While those in the migraine group did not report seeing the PAE more often in everyday life at a statistically significant level, they reported being more annoyed by it and having more unwanted physiological responses (headaches, eye fatigue and distraction/disorientation). Members of the migraine group were also more likely to have changed their behaviour in architectural spaces (such as leaving a restaurant with ‘flickering’ lights). In the four hours after completing the experiment, 64% of the migraine group (vs. 19% of the non-migraine group) reported experiencing discomfort or an adverse reaction. In particular, 41% reported experiencing a headache (vs. 8% for those in the non-migraine group).

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2021

Multi-spatio-temporal scales PIV in a turbulent buoyant jet discharging in a linearly stratified environment

Time-resolved particle image velocimetry is implemented with a camera array and several laser sheets; this results in a multi-spatio-temporal scale system that is modular and flexible. The setup is optimized to capture global flow features, while locally resolving in space and time near the Kolmogorov scale. The apparatus relies extensively on machine vision CMOS cameras; they are inexpensive and stream to computer hard drive with virtually continuous time-resolved records (up to one hour for the current system). This leads to statistically converged data and also helps in minimizing down time between experimental runs. Details of the implementation and design of experiment are reported. The system instruments a vertical buoyant jet discharging in a linearly stratified environment. Refractive index matched aqueous solutions enable precise optical deployment. The density difference is 3% and the fluids have similar dynamic viscosity. The jet Reynolds number is 2.00 x 10 4 and is above the mixing transition. Such flows are typically challenging to instrument and few velocity field data are available to date. The velocity statistics are reported as well as first insights gained from the campaign.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2024

Visible core spectroscopy at Wendelstein 7-X

This paper presents an overview of recent hardware extensions and data analysis developments to the Wendelstein 7-X visible core spectroscopy systems. These include upgrades to prepare the in-vessel components for long-pulse operation, nine additional spectrometers, a new line of sight array for passive spectroscopy, and a coherence imaging charge exchange spectroscopy diagnostic. Progress in data analysis includes ion temperatures and densities from multiple impurity species, a statistical comparison with x-ray crystal spectrometer measurements, neutral density measurements from thermal passive Balmer-alpha emission, and a Bayesian analysis of active hydrogen emission, which is able to infer electron density and main ion temperature profiles.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2024

Frontier system-on-chip (SoC) technology for microwave diagnostics (invited)

The next generation of fusion reactors, exemplified by projects such as the Demonstration Power Plant following the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, faces the monumental challenge of proving the viability of generating electricity through thermonuclear fusion. This pursuit introduces heightened complexities in diagnostic methodologies, particularly in microwave-based diagnostics. The increased neutron fluence necessitates significant reductions in vessel penetrations and the elimination of internal diagnostics, posing substantial challenges. SoC technology offers a promising solution by enabling the miniaturization, modularization, integration, and enhancing the reliability of microwave systems. After seven years of research, our team successfully pioneered the V- and W-band system-on-chip approach, leading to the development of active transmitters and passive receiver modules applied in practical settings, notably within the DIII-D tokamak project. Arrays of these modules have supported microwave imaging diagnostics. New physics measurement results from the Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging system on DIII-D provide compelling evidence of improved diagnostics following the adoption of SoC technology. Furthermore, we achieved a breakthrough in developing an F-band SoC, advancing higher frequency capabilities for fusion devices. These achievements represent a significant leap forward in fusion diagnostic technology, marking substantial progress toward establishing reliable and efficient plasma diagnostics for future fusion reactors.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2024

Dimensionally Aligned Signal Projection Algorithms Library

Dimensionally aligned signal projection (DASP) algorithms are used to analyze fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) and generate visualizations that help focus on the harmonics for specific signals. At a high level, these algorithms extract the FFT segments around each harmonic frequency center, and then align them in equally sized arrays ordered by increasing distance from the base frequency. This allows for a focused view of the harmonic frequencies, which, among other use cases, can enable machine learning algorithms to more easily identify salient patterns. This work seeks to provide an effective open-source implementation of the DASP algorithms proposed by Vann et al. (2018) as well as functionality to help explore and test how these algorithms work with an interactive dashboard and signal-generation tool. The DASP library is implemented in Python and contains four types of algorithms for implementing these feature engineering techniques: fixed harmonically aligned signal projection (HASP), decimating HASP, interpolating HASP, and frequency aligned signal projection (FASP). Each algorithm returns a numerical array, which can be visualized as an image. The HASP algorithms are variations of the algorithms originally presented by Vann et al. (2018). For consistency, FASP, which is the terminology used for the short-time Fourier transform (STFT), has been implemented as part of the library to provide a similar interface to the STFT of the raw signal. Additionally, the library contains an algorithm to generate artificial signals with basic customizations such as the base frequency, sample rate, duration, number of harmonics, noise, and number of signals. Finally, the library provides multiple interactive visualizations, each of which is implemented using IPyWidgets and works in a Jupyter environment. A dashboard-style visualization is provided, which contains some common signal-processing visual components (signal, FFT, spectogram) updating in unison with the HASP functions (see Figure 1 below). Separate from the dashboard, an independent visualization is provided for each of the DASP algorithms as well as for the artifical signal generator. These visualizations are included in the library to aid in developing an intuitive understanding how the algorithms are affected by different input signals and parameter selections.

harmonics↗
DOE OSTI2021

Influencing Activity of Bats by Dimly Lighting Wind Turbine Surfaces with Ultraviolet Light

Wind energy producers need deployable devices for wind turbines that prevent bat fatalities. Based on the speculation that bats approach turbines after visually mistaking them for trees, we tested a potential light-based deterrence method. It is likely that the affected bats see ultraviolet (UV) light at low intensities. Here, we present the results of a multi-month experiment to cast dim, flickering UV light across wind turbine surfaces at night. Our objectives were to refine and test a practical system for dimly UV-illuminating turbines while testing whether the experimental UV treatment influenced the activity of bats, birds, and insects. We mounted upward-facing UV light arrays on turbines and used thermal-imaging cameras to quantify the presence and activity of night-flying animals. The results demonstrated that the turbines can be lit to the highest reaches of the blades with “invisible” UV light, and the animal responses to such experimental treatment can be concurrently monitored. The UV treatment did not significantly change nighttime bat, insect, or bird activity at the wind turbine. Our findings show how observing flying animals with thermal cameras at night can help test emerging technologies intended to variably affect their behaviors around wind turbines.

17 WIND ENERGY↗