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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 217 records · Page 12

Linear Induction Accelerator Cell Voltage Calibration Using Compact Electron Permanent Magnet Spectrometer

The Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) facility provides flash radiography capabilities using electron Linear Induction Accelerators (LIA’s). The strict requirements for flash radiography require a detailed understanding of the LIA’s performance, including precision measurements of the electron beam energy. Axis-1 of DARHT produces a 20 MeV, 2 kA, 80-ns-FWHM electron beam. Electronic measurement with cell-voltage monitors which consists of a 75 ohm load resistor and a current viewing resistor (CVR) that are coupled together and injector capacitive monitors (EVACSUM) are summed to give the total beam energy at the output of the accelerator. Calibration of these monitors was last done in 1999 and is needed. Using the Compact electron Permanent Magnet Spectrometer (CePMSpec), we have developed a technique for measuring and adjusting the calibration of the accelerator cell load resistor/CVR by using the total energy of the beam. Each pair of cells is driven by pulsed power Blumleins, and each Blumlein is charged by a Blumlein Charge Unit (BCU). There are 64 cells and 32 Blumleins and BCUs. This technique is applied to all 32 BCUs.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Transformerless dc-Isolated Converter

Efficient voltage converter employs capacitive instead of transformer coupling to provide dc isolation. Offers buck/boost operation, minimal filtering, and low parts count, with possible application in photovoltaic power inverters, power supplies and battery charges. In photovoltaic inverter circuit with transformerless converter, Q2, Q3, Q4, and Q5 form line-commutated inverter. Switching losses and stresses nil because switching performed when current is zero.

Rippel, Wally E.↗

Mapping Electrical Crosstalk in Pixelated Sensor Arrays

Electronic coupling effects such as Inter-Pixel Capacitance (IPC) affect the quantitative interpretation of image data from CMOS, hybrid visible and infrared imagers alike. Existing methods of characterizing IPC do not provide a map of the spatial variation of IPC over all pixels. We demonstrate a deterministic method that provides a direct quantitative map of the crosstalk across an imager. The approach requires only the ability to reset single pixels to an arbitrary voltage, different from the rest of the imager. No illumination source is required. Mapping IPC independently for each pixel is also made practical by the greater S/N ratio achievable for an electrical stimulus than for an optical stimulus, which is subject to both Poisson statistics and diffusion effects of photo-generated charge. The data we present illustrates a more complex picture of IPC in Teledyne HgCdTe and HyViSi focal plane arrays than is presently understood, including the presence of a newly discovered, long range IPC in the HyViSi FPA that extends tens of pixels in distance, likely stemming from extended field effects in the fully depleted substrate. The sensitivity of the measurement approach has been shown to be good enough to distinguish spatial structure in IPC of the order of 0.1%.

focal plane array↗

Improved Signal Chains for Readout of CMOS Imagers

An improved generic design has been devised for implementing signal chains involved in readout from complementary metal oxide/semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors and for other readout integrated circuits (ICs) that perform equivalent functions. The design applies to any such IC in which output signal charges from the pixels in a given row are transferred simultaneously into sampling capacitors at the bottoms of the columns, then voltages representing individual pixel charges are read out in sequence by sequentially turning on column-selecting field-effect transistors (FETs) in synchronism with source-follower- or operational-amplifier-based amplifier circuits. The improved design affords the best features of prior source-follower-and operational- amplifier-based designs while overcoming the major limitations of those designs. The limitations can be summarized as follows: a) For a source-follower-based signal chain, the ohmic voltage drop associated with DC bias current flowing through the column-selection FET causes unacceptable voltage offset, nonlinearity, and reduced small-signal gain. b) For an operational-amplifier-based signal chain, the required bias current and the output noise increase superlinearly with size of the pixel array because of a corresponding increase in the effective capacitance of the row bus used to couple the sampled column charges to the operational amplifier. The effect of the bus capacitance is to simultaneously slow down the readout circuit and increase noise through the Miller effect.

Pain, Bedabrata↗

Development of a capacitance measurement for pulsed magnetic fields

Capacitance measurements are crucial for probing the electrical properties of materials. In this study, we develop and implement a capacitance measurement technique optimized for pulsed magnetic fields. Our approach employs an auto-balancing bridge method, leveraging a high-bandwidth transimpedance amplifier to mitigate parasitic contributions from coaxial cables. This technique enables precise capacitance measurements in rapidly changing magnetic fields, as demonstrated in experiments on the magnetoelectric material NiCo 2 TeO 6 . The results reveal strong magnetoelectric coupling, including a pronounced hysteresis in capacitance that coincides with magnetization measurements and an enhanced energy dissipation peak at high sweep rates. Compared to traditional LCR meter measurements in DC fields, our method exhibits excellent agreement while providing additional insight into field-induced phase transitions. This work establishes a robust methodology for capacitance measurements under extreme conditions and opens new opportunities for studying multiferroic and correlated electron systems under high magnetic fields.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Trielectrode capacitive pressure transducer

A capacitive transducer and circuit especially suited for making measurements in a high-temperature environment are described. The transducer includes two capacitive electrodes and a shield electrode. As the temperature of the transducer rises, the resistance of the insulation between the capacitive electrode decreases and a resistive current attempts to interfere with the capacitive current between the capacitive electrodes. The shield electrode and the circuit coupled there reduce the resistive current in the transducer. A bridge-type circuit coupled to the transducer ignores the resistive current and measures only the capacitive current flowing between the capacitive electrodes.

Coon, G. W.↗

Parametrically amplified Josephson plasma waves in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+ x : Evidence for local superconducting fluctuations up to the pseudogap temperature T ∗

Experiments that subject underdoped YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x (YBCO) to intense terahertz pulses at temperatures between the transition temperature T c and the pseudogap scale T ∗ have revealed a reflectivity edge that resembles that of the superconducting state, together with second harmonic generation of a probe pulse modulated at a similar frequency. These have been interpreted in terms of parametric amplification of the lower Josephson plasmon mode. Since this mode is often associated with coherent oscillations between bilayers in the YBCO structure, these experiments have led to the suggestion that the intense pump has created (or revealed) in-plane pair coherence up to T ∗ ≈ 400 K. In this paper we propose an alternative explanation by assuming the existence of local pair amplitude and phase at equilibrium for T c < T < T ∗ . The phase correlation spans only a few lattice constants and we do not assume any pump-induced enhancement of this correlation, either in-plane or between bilayers. Instead, the coherent drive, via a parametric amplification process, induces coherence in the Josephson currents between members of bilayers. When combined with a Floquet framework, the reflectivity data can be explained. The key point is that in the lower Josephson plasmon, the coupling between bilayers is mainly capacitive; the Josephson current between bilayers can be set to zero without strongly affecting the parametric amplification process. Importantly, while superconducting coherence may not be created by the pump, the pseudogap phase must possess a local pairing amplitude at equilibrium. Consequently, these experiments have strong implications for the understanding of the pseudogap phase.

parametric amplification↗

Reactanceless synthesized impedance bandpass amplifier

An active R bandpass filter network is formed by four operational amplifier stages interconnected by discrete resistances. One pair of stages synthesize an equivalent input impedance of an inductance (L sub eq) in parallel with a discrete resistance (R sub o) while the second pair of stages synthesizes an equivalent input impedance of a capacitance (C sub eq) serially coupled to another discrete resistance (R sub i) coupled in parallel with the first two stages. The equivalent input impedances aggregately define a tuned resonant bandpass filter in the roll-off regions of the operational amplifiers.

Kleinberg, L. L.↗

The (55)Fe X-ray Energy Response of Mercury Cadmium Telluride Near-Infrared Detector Arrays

The accurate determination of a detector's fundamental parameters, including read noise, dark current, and QE, relies on a proper measurement of a detector's conversion gain (e- ADU(exp -1)). Charge coupling effects, such as interpixel capacitance, attenuate photon shot noise and result in an overestimation of conversion gain when implementing the photon transfer technique. An approach involving (55)Fe X-rays provides a potentially straightforward measurement of conversion gain by comparing the observed instrumental counts (ADU) to the known charge (e-) liberated by the X-ray. This technique is already preferred within the CCD community, as the pair production energy for silicon is well established. In contrast, to date the pair production energy is unknown for HgCdTe, a material commonly used for near-infrared detectors. In this paper, we derive a preliminary calibration of the (55)Fe X-ray energy response of HgCdTe using 8 HST WFC3 1.7 micrometers flight grade detectors. Our conversion of the X-ray intensities from counts into electrons implements a technique that restores the 'true' gain via classical propagation of errors. For these detectors, our analysis yields preliminary results of good statistical precision: each Ka event generates 1849 +/- 46 electrons, which corresponds to a pair production energy of 3.21+/-f 0.08 eV. We are continuing to assess potential systematic effects to further refine the accuracy of this result.

Fox, Ori↗

Multiplexed Energy Coupler for Rotating Equipment

A multiplexing antenna assembly can efficiently couple AC signal/energy into, or out of, rotating equipment. The unit only passes AC energy while blocking DC energy. Concentric tubes that are sliced into multiple pieces are assembled together so that, when a piece from an outer tube aligns well with an inner tube piece, efficient energy coupling is achieved through a capacitive scheme. With N outer pieces and M inner pieces, an effective N x M combination can be achieved in a multiplexed manner. The energy coupler is non-contact, which is useful if isolation from rotating and stationary parts is required. Additionally, the innovation can operate in high temperatures. Applications include rotating structure sensing, non-contact energy transmission, etc.

Zhao, Xiaoliang↗

Ferri-ionic coupling in Cu In P 2 S 6 nanoflakes: Polarization states and controllable negative capacitance

We consider nanoflakes of van der Waals ferrielectric Cu In P 2 S 6 covered by an ionic surface charge and reveal the appearance of polar states with a relatively large polarization of approximately 5 µC/ cm 2 and stored free charge of around 10 µC/ cm 2 , which can mimic “midgap” states associated with a surface-field-induced transfer of Cu and/or In ions in the van der Waals gap. The change in the ionic screening degree and mismatch strains induce a broad range of the transitions between paraelectric phase, antiferroelectric, ferrielectric, and ferri-ionic states in Cu In P 2 S 6 nanoflakes. The states’ stability and/or metastability is determined by the minimum of the system free energy consisting of electrostatic energy, elastic energy, and a Landau-type four-well potential of the ferrielectric dipole polarization. The possibility of governing the transitions by strain and ionic screening can be useful for controlling the tunneling barrier in thin-film devices based on Cu In P 2 S 6 nanoflakes. Additionally, we predict that the Cu In P 2 S 6 nanoflakes reveal features of the controllable negative capacitance effect, which make them attractive for advanced electronic devices, such as nanocapacitors and gate oxide nanomaterials with reduced heat generation. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Physics↗

Laser-Induced Phase Transition in a Monolayer of Polymer Particles Levitating in a Low-Pressure Gas-Discharge Plasma

We report on the results of analysis of the mean kinetic energy and the pair correlation function of polymer particles in a plasma–dust structure under the action of laser radiation. We have observed experimentally the crystal–liquid phase transition in the monolayer of particles levitating in the near-electrode layer of a capacitive high-frequency discharge. The coupling parameter of the dust system has been estimated. The results of analysis of the modification of the polymer dust particle surface after holding in the plasma are considered. We propose an explanation of the phase transition taking into account the role of the photophoretic force in the motion of macroparticles. The effect of the photophoretic force is associated with the modification of the dust particle surface in the plasma, as a result of which the particles can effectively absorb laser radiation.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Lightweight linear alternators with and without capacitive tuning

Permanent magnet excited linear alternators rated tens of kW and coupled to free-piston Stirling engines are presently viewed as promising candidates for long term generation of electric power in both space and terrestrial applications. Series capacitive cancellation of the internal inductive reactance of such alternators was considered a viable way to both increase power extraction and to suppress unstable modes of the thermodynamic oscillation. Idealized toroidal and cylindrical alternator geometries are used for a comparative study of the issues of specific mass and capacitive tuning, subject to stability criteria. The analysis shows that the stator mass of an alternator designed to be capacitively tuned is always greater than the minimum achievable stator mass of an alternator designed with no capacitors, assuming equal utilization of materials ratings and the same frequency and power to a resistive load. This conclusion is not substantially altered when the usually lesser masses of the magnets and of any capacitors are added. Within the reported stability requirements and under circumstances of normal materials ratings, this study finds no clear advantage to capacitive tuning. Comparative plots of the various constituent masses are presented versus the internal power factor taken as a design degree of freedom. The explicit formulas developed for stator core, coil, capacitor, and magnet masses and for the degree of magnet utilization provide useful estimates of scaling effects.

Niedra, Janis M.↗

Electromagnetic braking for Mars spacecraft

Aerobraking concepts are being studied to improve performance and cost effectiveness of propulsion systems for Mars landers and Mars interplanetary spacecraft. Access to megawatt power levels (nuclear power coupled to high-storage inductive or capacitive devices) on a manned Mars interplanetary spacecraft may make feasible electromagnetic braking and lift modulation techniques which were previously impractical. Using pulsed microwave and magnetic field technology, potential plasmadynamic braking and hydromagnetic lift modulation techniques have been identified. Entry corridor modulation to reduce loads and heating, to reduce vertical descent rates, and to expand horizontal and lateral landing ranges are possible benefits. In-depth studies are needed to identify specific design concepts for feasibility assessments. Standing wave/plasma sheath interaction techniques appear to be promising. The techniques may require some tailoring of spacecraft external structures and materials. In addition, rapid response guidance and control systems may require the use of structurally embedded sensors coupled to expert systems or to artificial intelligence systems.

Holt, A. C.↗

Charging and Transport Dynamics of a Flow-Through Electrode Capacitive Deionization System

We present a study of the interplay among electric charging rate, capacitance, salt removal, and mass transport in “flow-through electrode” capacitive deionization (CDI) systems. We develop two models describing coupled transport and electro-adsorption/desorption which capture salt removal dynamics. The first model is a simplified, unsteady zero-dimensional volume-averaged model which identifies dimensionless parameters and figures of merits associated with cell performance. The second model is a higher fidelity area-averaged model which captures both spatial and temporal responses of charging. We further conducted an experimental study of these dynamics and considered two salt transport regimes: (1) advection-limited regime and (2) dispersion-limited regime. We use these data to validate models. The study shows that, in the advection-limited regime, differential charge efficiency determines the salt adsorption at the early stage of the deionization process. Subsequently, charging transitions to a quasi-steady state where salt removal rate is proportional to applied current scaled by the inlet flow rate. In the dispersion-dominated regime, differential charge efficiency, cell volume, and diffusion rates govern adsorption dynamics and flow rate has little effect. In both regimes, the interplay among mass transport rate, differential charge efficiency, cell capacitance, and (electric) charging current governs salt removal in flow-through electrode CDI.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Surface-Mediated Interconnections of Nanoparticles in Cellulosic Fibrous Materials toward 3D Sensors

Fibrous materials serve as an intriguing class of 3D materials to meet the growing demands for flexible, foldable, biocompatible, biodegradable, dis- posable, inexpensive, and wearable sensors and the rising desires for higher sensitivity, greater miniaturization, lower cost, and better wearability. The use of such materials for the creation of a fibrous sensor substrate that interfaces with a sensing film in 3D with the transducing electronics is however difficult by conventional photolithographic methods. Here, a highly effective pathway featuring surface-mediated interconnection (SMI) of metal nanoclusters (NCs) and nanoparticles (NPs) in fibrous materials at ambient conditions is demon- strated for fabricating fibrous sensor substrates or platforms. Bimodally distrib- uted gold–copper alloy NCs and NPs are used as a model system to demonstrate the semiconductive-to-metallic conductivity transition, quantized capacitive charging, and anisotropic conductivity characteristics. Upon coupling SMI of NCs/NPs as electrically conductive microelectrodes and surface-mediated assembly (SMA) of the NCs/NPs as chemically sensitive interfaces, the resulting fibrous chemiresistors function as sensitive and selective sensors for gaseous and vaporous analytes. Finally, this new SMI–SMA strategy has significant implications for manufacturing high-performance fibrous platforms to meet the growing demands of the advanced multifunctional sensors and biosensors.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Partially Ionized Plasma Physics and Technological Applications

Partially ionized plasma physics has attracted increased attention recently due to numerous technological applications made possible by the increased sophistication of computer modelling, the depth of the theoretical analysis, and the technological applications to a vast field of manufacturing for computer components. Partially ionized plasma is characterized by a significant presence of neutral particles in contrast to the fully ionized plasma. The theoretical analysis is based upon solutions of the kinetic Boltzmann equation, yielding the non-Maxwellian electron energy distribution function (EEDF), thereby emphasizing the difference with a fully ionized plasma. The impact of the effect on discharges in inert and molecular gases is described in detail, yielding the complex nonlinear phenomena resulting in plasma selforganization. A few examples of such phenomena are given, including the non-monotonic EEDFs in the discharge afterglow in a mixture of argon with the molecular gas NF3; the explosive generation of cold electron populations in capacitive discharges, hysteresis of EEDF in inductively coupled plasmas. Recently, highly advanced computer codes were developed in order to address the outstanding challenges in plasma technology. These developments are briefly described in general terms.

non-Maxwellian electron energy distribution functi↗

DC-to-DC switching converter

A dc-to-dc converter having nonpulsating input and output current uses two inductances, one in series with the input source, the other in series with the output load. An electrical energy transferring device with storage, namely storage capacitance, is used with suitable switching means between the inductances to DC level conversion. For isolation between the source and load, the capacitance may be divided into two capacitors coupled by a transformer, and for reducing ripple, the inductances may be coupled. With proper design of the coupling between the inductances, the current ripple can be reduced to zero at either the input or the output, or the reduction achievable in that way may be divided between the input and output.

Cuk, Slobodan M.↗