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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
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2015

ISMIP6: Ice Sheet Model Intercomparison Project for CMIP6

ISMIP6 (Ice Sheet Model Intercomparison Project for CMIP6) targets the Cryosphere in a Changing Climate and the Future Sea Level Grand Challenges of the WCRP (World Climate Research Program). Primary goal is to provide future sea level contribution from the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, along with associated uncertainty. Secondary goal is to investigate feedback due to dynamic ice sheet models. Experiment design uses and augment the existing CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6) DECK (Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Characterization of Klima) experiments. Additonal MIP (Model Intercomparison Project)- specific experiments will be designed for ISM (Ice Sheet Model). Effort builds on the Ice2sea, SeaRISE (Sea-level Response to Ice Sheet Evolution) and COMBINE (Comprehensive Modelling of the Earth System for Better Climate Prediction and Projection) efforts.

CMIP6↗
NASA NTRS1992

Optical distributed sensors for feedback control: Characterization of photorefractive resonator

The aim of the project was to explore, define, and assess the possibilities of optical distributed sensing for feedback control. This type of sensor, which may have some impacts in the dynamic control of deformable structures and the monitoring of small displacements, can be divided into data acquisition, data processing, and control design. Analogue optical techniques, because they are noninvasive and afford massive parallelism may play a significant role in the acquisition and the preprocessing of the data for such a sensor. Assessing these possibilities was the aim of the first stage of this project. The scope of the proposed research was limited to: (1) the characterization of photorefractive resonators and the assessment of their possible use as a distributed optical processing element; and (2) the design of a control system utilizing signals from distributed sensors. The results include a numerical and experimental study of the resonator below threshold, an experimental study of the effect of the resonator's transverse confinement on its dynamics above threshold, a numerical study of the resonator above threshold using a modal expansion approach, and the experimental test of this model. A detailed account of each investigation, including methodology and analysis of the results are also included along with reprints of published and submitted papers.

Indebetouw, Guy↗
NASA NTRS2007

Assessment of Silver Based Disinfection Technology for CEV and Future US Spacecraft

Silver biocide offers a potential advantage over iodine, the current state-of-the-art in US spacecraft disinfection technology, in that silver can be safely consumed by the crew. As such, silver may reduce the overall complexity and mass of future spacecraft potable water systems, particularly those used to support long duration missions. A primary technology gap identified for the use of silver biocide is one of material compatibility. Wetted materials of construction are required to be selected such that silver ion concentrations can be maintained at biocidally effective levels. Preliminary data on silver biocide depletion rates in heritage spacecraft potable water system wetted-materials of construction has been gathered as part of a multi-phase test project aimed at the characterization of silver based biocide technology through: development of preferred materials lists, investigation of silver biocide forms and delivery methods, down-selection of silver biocide technologies, and integrated testing. A 10% - 20% loss in silver ion concentration per day was observed for acid passivated Nitronic 40 tubing with surface area to volume (S/V) ratios of approximately 4.59 cm-1. The Nitronic 40 tubes were tested both with and without biocide pretreatment. Silver biocide depletion was also observed at approximately 0.1% per day for the first 35 days of exposure to acid passivated Inconel 718 coupon, S/V of approximately 0.14 cm-1. Surface analysis by scanning election microscopy (SEM) suggested deposition of silver metal on both test materials. SEM analysis also provided evidence of potential variability in the passivation process for tube configuration of the Nitronic 40 test apparatus. These preliminary results are presented and discussed herein, along with the current project status.

Callahan, Michael R.↗
NASA NTRS2007

Wireless Channel Characterization in the 5 GHz Microwave Landing System Extension Band for Airport Surface Areas

In this project final report, entitled "Wireless Channel Characterization in the 5 GHz Microwave Landing System Extension Band for Airport Surface Areas," we provide a detailed description and model representation for the wireless channel in the airport surface environment in this band. In this executive summary, we review report contents, describe the achieved objectives and major findings, and highlight significant conclusions and recommendations.

Matolak, David W.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Detecting and Characterizing Fracture Zones Using a Convolutional Neural Network

This project directly supports the Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) objectives outlined in the Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP) by advancing two key research areas: “Exploration and Characterization” and “Data, Modeling, and Analysis.” This project has successfully demonstrated a pre-drilling ability to image and characterize the distribution and connectivity of subsurface faults and fractures, key parameters for identifying permeable pathways that enable geothermal fluids to circulate and produce energy. Specifically, we developed and implemented innovative machine learning methodologies to enhance geothermal exploration. Large-scale faults were detected using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), while small-scale fractures were characterized using a novel Double-Beam Neural Network (DBNN). These tools have proven both technically effective and cost-efficient by reducing reliance on expensive exploratory drilling. Through collaboration with our geothermal industry partner, this research has significantly advanced techniques for identifying hidden geothermal systems and extending the productive lifespan of existing geothermal fields. We applied our methods to two geothermal fields—Soda Lake (Nevada) and Lightning Dock (New Mexico)—to identify shallow steam-charged fracture zones and characterize deep faults at depths of 1.5-2 km. The steam zone identified at the Soda Lake geothermal field showed excellent agreement with prior drilling data, validating the effectiveness of our approaches. In addition, the analysis revealed three new prospective drilling targets for further development and verification. The outcomes of this project improve our scientific understanding of geothermal reservoir behavior, enhance exploration efficiency, extend the economic life of existing geothermal plants. Ultimately, these advancements contribute to GTO’s goal of achieving more sustainable, affordable, and data-driven geothermal energy development across the United States.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗
NASA NTRS1991

Damping characterization in large structures

This research project has as its main goal the development of methods for selecting the damping characteristics of components of a large structure or multibody system, in such a way as to produce some desired system damping characteristics. The main need for such an analytical device is in the simulation of the dynamics of multibody systems consisting, at least partially, of flexible components. The reason for this need is that all existing simulation codes for multibody systems require component-by-component characterization of complex systems, whereas requirements (including damping) often appear at the overall system level. The main goal was met in large part by the development of a method that will in fact synthesize component damping matrices from a given system damping matrix. The restrictions to the method are that the desired system damping matrix must be diagonal (which is almost always the case) and that interbody connections must be by simple hinges. In addition to the technical outcome, this project contributed positively to the educational and research infrastructure of Tuskegee University - a Historically Black Institution.

Eke, Fidelis O.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Thermal and Chemical Characterization of Composite Materials. MSFC Center Director's Discretionary Fund Final Report, Project No. ED36-18

The purpose of this research effort was to: (1) provide a concise and well-defined property profile of current and developing composite materials using thermal and chemical characterization techniques and (2) optimize analytical testing requirements of materials. This effort applied a diverse array of methodologies to ascertain composite material properties. Often, a single method of technique will provide useful, but nonetheless incomplete, information on material composition and/or behavior. To more completely understand and predict material properties, a broad-based analytical approach is required. By developing a database of information comprised of both thermal and chemical properties, material behavior under varying conditions may be better understood. THis is even more important in the aerospace community, where new composite materials and those in the development stage have little reference data. For example, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy spectral databases available for identification of vapor phase spectra, such as those generated during experiments, generally refer to well-defined chemical compounds. Because this method renders a unique thermal decomposition spectral pattern, even larger, more diverse databases, such as those found in solid and liquid phase FTIR spectroscopy libraries, cannot be used. By combining this and other available methodologies, a database specifically for new materials and materials being developed at Marshall Space Flight Center can be generated . In addition, characterizing materials using this approach will be extremely useful in the verification of materials and identification of anomalies in NASA-wide investigations.

Stanley, D. C.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Characterization of ionic currents of cells of the subfornical organ that project to the supraoptic nuclei

The subfornical organ (SFO) is a forebrain structure that converts peripheral blood-borne signals reflecting the hydrational state of the body to neural signals and then through efferent fibers conveys this information to several central nervous system structures. One of the forebrain areas receiving input from the SFO is the supraoptic nucleus (SON), a source of vasopressin synthesis and control of release from the posterior pituitary. Little is known of the transduction and transmission processes by which this conversion of systemic information to brain input occurs. As a step in elucidating these mechanisms, the present study characterized the ionic currents of dissociated cells of the SFO that were identified as neurons that send efferents to the SON. A retrograde tracer was injected into the SON area in eleven-day-old rats. After three days for retrograde transport of the label, the SFOs of these animals were dissociated and plated for tissue culture. The retrograde tracer was used to identify the soma of SFO cells projecting to the SON so that voltage-dependent ionic currents using whole-cell voltage clamp methods could be studied. The three types of currents in labeled SFO neurons were characterized as a 1) rapid, transient inward current that can be blocked by tetrodotoxin (TTX) characteristic of a sodium current; 2) slow-onset sustained outward current that can be blocked by tetraethylammonium (TEA) characteristic of a delayed rectifier potassium current; and 3) remaining outward current that has a rapid-onset and transient characteristic of a potassium A-type current. Copyright 1999 Elsevier Science B.V.

Non-NASA Center↗
DOE OSTI2026

Performance Evaluation of an Offshore Wave Measurement Buoy in Monochromatic Waves

The accurate measurement of waves underpins marine energy resource characterization, device design, and project development. Datawell wave buoys are widely deployed and have long served as a trusted standard for wave measurements. We quantify the measurement performance, including wave elevation and energy flux estimation, of a Datawell DWR-MkIII buoy using prescribed monochromatic heave motions on a large-amplitude six-degree-of-freedom motion platform at the National Laboratory of the Rockies, assuming the buoy behaves as an ideal wave follower. Commanded motions were validated with an optical motion tracking system while buoy elevation and raw acceleration were recorded. Wave elevations were propagated to wave energy flux estimation using four methods, including one frequency-domain method and three time-domain methods. The Bayesian optimization was applied for design of experiments, and records from three test sites were also applied and evaluated in the present study. Results show two error regions within the nominal period range of 1.6 s to 30 s. For wave periods between 5 s and 25 s, the buoy provides accurate wave height measurements. For short periods less than 5 s, the 1.28 Hz sampling frequency induces sub-Nyquist artifacts that bias elevation and can drive maximum energy flux estimation errors above 100%. For long periods exceeding 25 s, the buoy reported elevation is underpredicted with error depending on period but relatively independent of wave height, with maximum wave height and wave energy flux errors reaching 64% and 87%, respectively. Furthermore, analysis of three field-derived cases shows that frequency-domain estimates at 1.28 Hz agree within 2% of the corresponding 100 Hz estimates, while larger method-dependent differences are observed for the Hilbert method.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗
DOE OSTI2024

Characterizing and communicating uncertainty: lessons from NASA’s Carbon Monitoring System

Navigating uncertainty is a critical challenge in all fields of science, especially when translating knowledge into real-world policies or management decisions. However, the wide variance in concepts and definitions of uncertainty across scientific fields hinders effective communication. As a microcosm of diverse fields within Earth Science, NASA’s Carbon Monitoring System (CMS) provides a useful crucible in which to identify cross-cutting concepts of uncertainty. The CMS convened the Uncertainty Working Group (UWG), a group of specialists across disciplines, to evaluate and synthesize efforts to characterize uncertainty in CMS projects. This paper represents efforts by the UWG to build a heuristic framework designed to evaluate data products and communicate uncertainty to both scientific and non-scientific end users. We consider four pillars of uncertainty: origins, severity, stochasticity versus incomplete knowledge, and spatial and temporal autocorrelation. Using a common vocabulary and a generalized workflow, the framework introduces a graphical heuristic accompanied by a narrative, exemplified through contrasting case studies. Envisioned as a versatile tool, this framework provides clarity in reporting uncertainty, guiding users and tempering expectations. Beyond CMS, it stands as a simple yet powerful means to communicate uncertainty across diverse scientific communities.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2024

Analysis of the Surface Morphology and Chemical Composition of Zr-Nb3Sn Alloys with Zr Different Concentrations

The inclusion of zirconium (Zr) in niobium-tin (Nb3Sn) significantly enhances the performance of Nb3Sn radiofrequency cavities in high magnetic fields. This research project is dedicated to characterizing the surface properties and chemical composition of Zr-doped Nb3Sn. Two different concentrations of Zr were used for doping: approximately 0.5% and 24%. Various spectroscopy techniques were employed to analyze how the surface morphology and chemical composition of Nb3Sn change with increasing Zr content. The findings of this study indicate that the grain size decreases as the Zr concentration increases. In samples with 24% Zr, nanometer-sized particles, likely oxides, were observed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data revealed that the thickness of niobium oxides (NbOx) decreases with increasing Zr, while the thickness of tin oxides (SnOx) increases. Additionally, grain size distribution analysis showed that the average grain size is around 5300 nm , with a grain area density of about 165 grains/μm .

Sue, Micah↗
DOE OSTI2024

GEESS as a Mechanism to Facilitate the Commercialization of Geologic Carbon Sequestration

This is a presentation featuring an overview of the Geoanalytical Economic Evaluation of Saline Storage (GEESS) project and latest results. The GEESS project has worked towards characterizing 57 geologic saline formations targeted for geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) using publicly available datasets. The GEESS system consists of high spatial resolution datasets (up to a 5 km grid spacing) that characterize critical geologic parameters such as depth, thickness, porosity, permeability, fracture pressure, and more. Further, GEESS geologic data were exercised using the FECM/NETL Saline Storage Cost Model (CO2_S_COM) to estimate CO2 plume sizes and the first-year break-even price of CO2 at the grid point level. GEESS is now available on NETL’s Energy Data Exchange (EDX).

Eppink, Jeffrey↗
DOE OSTI2026

Bioinorganic Chemistry of Nitrification: Structure and Function of Ammonia Monooxygenase (Final Technical Report)

The overarching goal of this project was to elucidate biochemical mechanisms that ubiquitous microorganisms use to enable primary metabolism based on nitrification, the multi-electron oxidation of ammonia (NH 3 ) to nitrite (NO 2 – ). This chemistry enables life to substitute carbon based fuel with nitrogen. Understanding the underlying chemistry was pursued to help inform the use of ammonia as an alternative fuel source compared to petroleum, capitalizing on the widespread infrastructure for production and distribution of this substance in the US. This project specifically focused on characterizing ammonia monooxygenase, an integral membrane copper protein that initiates nitrification via the aerobic oxidation of NH 3 to hydroxylamine (NH 2 OH).

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗
DOE OSTI2026

Innovative Biomonitoring and Remediation of Heavy Metals Using Phytotechnologies at the Savannah River Site (SRS) Coal Combustion Product (CCP) Impoundment Sites

The Savannah River Site (SRS) contains legacy coal combustion product (CCP) impoundments that are impacted by elevated concentrations of heavy metals and radionuclides, posing long-term risks to soil health, ecosystem functioning, and environmental sustainability. Traditional environmental monitoring approaches rely primarily on chemical analyses to quantify contaminant concentrations but often provide limited information regarding biological responses or ecosystem recovery. This project addressed these limitations by integrating environmental chemistry, microbial ecology, artificial intelligence (AI), and bioremediation into a comprehensive framework for environmental diagnostics and restoration of contaminated soils. The overarching goal of this collaborative project between Florida A&M University (FAMU) and the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL) was to develop innovative biomonitoring and remediation strategies for heavy metal-contaminated CCP impoundment sites at the Savannah River Site. Specifically, the project sought to (i) characterize heavy metal contamination, (ii) determine microbial responses to contamination, (iii) isolate indigenous heavy metal-resistant microorganisms for remediation applications, (iv) develop a microbial ecological health index using machine learning, and (v) optimize fungal-mediated bioremediation using artificial intelligence.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗
DOE OSTI2026

Performance Validation of Endcap Timing Layer Detector Modules for CMS Phase-2 Upgrade

The High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) will operate up to 200 simultaneous collisions per bunch crossing, which is a significant jump from the current value of about 30 collisions per bunch crossing, producing significant pileup that challenges accurate event reconstruction. To address this, the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment is implementing the Endcap Timing Layer (ETL), a precision timing detector designed to provide timing measurements with a resolution of approximately 50 ps per hit and 35 ps per reconstructed track. This project focuses on the characterization and validation of ETL detector modules using laboratory laser test data. ETL performance is evaluated by analyzing key quantities such as Bunch Crossing Identification (BCID), Time-of-Arrival (TOA), Time-over-Threshold (TOT), Noise Stability etc. The resulting analysis provides insight into the timing performance and operational stability of ETL modules, contributing to the quality assurance process req uired before their installation in the CMS experiment and ensure that the modules can meet the long-term reliability requirements of approximately 10 years of operation without replacement.

Chipara, Munashe [Fermilab]↗
DOE OSTI2026

Findings of the African Combustion Aerosol Collaborative Intercomparison Analysis (ACACIA) Pilot Project to Understand the Optical Properties of Biomass Burning Smoke

Africa is a critical source of biomass burning (BB) aerosols, and its importance is increasing. The African Combustion Aerosol Collaborative Intercomparison Analysis (ACACIA) Pilot Project set to optically characterize BB aerosol generated from sub-Saharan African fuels. We used a photoacoustic spectrometer as a reference instrument to determine the multiple-scattering correction factor C λ for an AE33 aethalometer at three wavelengths, which produced weighted mean values of C 370 =3.69, C 470 =5.65, and C 520 =6.39. C λ increased with wavelength and C 370 was statistically independent of the others, suggesting a single C λ is insufficient, especially in BB scenarios. While a dependence of C λ on burning state was not found, C λ was shown to strongly relate to particle single scattering albedo (SSA, ω). When Cλ was plotted against SSA, values slowly rose at low SSA values, followed by a sharp rise around an SSA of ∼ 0.9; indicating a larger correction needed for less absorbing aerosol. A number of functions operating on either SSA or C λ were explored and the best function was -C λ /(1-C λ )=Aω+B. This is an important parametrization of C λ specifically geared towards BB aerosol from African fuels under different aging states, and is of particular importance for future field work in that continent. An Ångström matrix plot shows that African BB aerosol can have values more akin to dust, which demonstrates that these fuels are distinct in their wavelength dependence from more typical BB aerosol. Lastly, we examined the mass extinction and absorbance cross sections for BB aerosol generated for the same fuels with two different tube furnace setups. Not only is this combustion method flexible, it was found to be reproducible between labs.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
NASA NTRS1974

Helical rotary screw expander power system

An energy converter for the development of wet steam geothermal fields is described. A project to evaluate and characterize a helical rotary screw expander for geothermal applications is discussed. The helical screw expander is a positive displacement machine which can accept untreated corrosive mineralized water of any quality from a geothermal well. The subjects of corrosion, mineral deposition, the expansion process, and experience with prototype devices are reported.

Mckay, R. A.↗