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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 235 records · Page 13
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Monitoring the Structural Health of the Stage-Four Gibbs Resistor In Order to Maintain a Functioning Pulse-Forming Network

The Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a critical facility used for nuclear weapons research and development (Los Alamos National Laboratory). Its primary function is to provide high-resolution, real-time images of the behavior of materials under extreme conditions, specifically during the hydrodynamic testing of nuclear weapons surrogates. The facility uses advanced radiographic techniques, such as dual-axis X-ray imaging, to capture detailed snapshots of these materials as they react to high-pressure environments. DARHT plays a key role in maintaining the safety, security, and reliability of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, supporting the Stockpile Stewardship Program. The facility helps ensure that nuclear weapons perform as designed without the need for nuclear tests. Its dual-axis radiography provides more precise data than traditional single-axis imaging, offering a comprehensive view of the internal dynamics of a weapon's primary stage.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS2005

Techniques and Tools of NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia Accident Investigation

The Space Shuttle Columbia accident investigation was a fusion of many disciplines into a single effort. From the recovery and reconstruction of the debris, Figure 1, to the analysis, both destructive and nondestructive, of chemical and metallurgical samples, Figure 2, a multitude of analytical techniques and tools were employed. Destructive and non-destructive testing were utilized in tandem to determine if a breach in the left wing of the Orbiter had occurred, and if so, the path of the resultant high temperature plasma flow. Nondestructive analysis included topometric scanning, laser mapping, and real-time radiography. These techniques were useful in constructing a three dimensional virtual representation of the reconstruction project, specifically the left wing leading edge reinforced carbon/carbon heat protectant panels. Similarly, they were beneficial in determining where sampling should be performed on the debris. Analytic testing included such techniques as Energy Dispersive Electron Microprobe Analysis (EMPA), Electron Spectroscopy Chemical Analysis (ESCA), and X-Ray dot mapping; these techniques related the characteristics of intermetallics deposited on the leading edge of the left wing adjacent to the location of a suspected plasma breach during reentry. The methods and results of the various analyses, along with their implications into the accident, are discussed, along with the findings and recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Likewise, NASA's Return To Flight efforts are highlighted.

McDanels, Steve J.↗
DOE OSTI2023

Demonstrating imaging plate detector stacks for proton radiography using exploding pusher capsules

A new detector design has been fielded on the Omega-60 laser facility using a D 3 He backlighter capsule to radiograph a magnetized experiment. D 3 He capsules produce a low flux (~ 10 8 total yield in 4π) of protons requiring detectors with close-to single-particle sensitivity to be employed. The new detector stack consisted of both imaging plate (IP) and CR-39 to detect 14.7 MeV protons where, historically, only CR-39 has been used. IP is sensitive to significant contributions in signal from both x-rays and protons so additional filtering has to be added to attenuate the x-rays. Here, the signals and features observed from a single shot are detected by both IP and CR-39, giving confirmation that it is protons creating the signatures on the IP. Measurements of PSL/pixel are used to calculate approximate on-shot proton yields and agree with commonly measured yields. A second IP is used at the rear of the stack to measure, and subsequently remove, a background signal. The spatial resolution at the IP is limited, primarily, by a range of proton energies with varying deflections being recorded at the detector, causing potential ‘blurring’ of features. We find for this setup that the blurring effect is less than the smallest identifiable features observed at the detector, and therefore of minimal impact. A large benefit to this new stack design is that IP can be scanned and processed on much faster timescales than CR-39 allowing for prompt shot feedback. Future designs and modifications to the stack design fielded on this experiment could help improve the contrast of the radiograph on IP, as well as detecting protons produced at alternative energies.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
NASA NTRS2001

Analysis of fractal dimensions of rat bones from film and digital images

OBJECTIVES: (1) To compare the effect of two different intra-oral image receptors on estimates of fractal dimension; and (2) to determine the variations in fractal dimensions between the femur, tibia and humerus of the rat and between their proximal, middle and distal regions. METHODS: The left femur, tibia and humerus from 24 4-6-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats were radiographed using intra-oral film and a charge-coupled device (CCD). Films were digitized at a pixel density comparable to the CCD using a flat-bed scanner. Square regions of interest were selected from proximal, middle, and distal regions of each bone. Fractal dimensions were estimated from the slope of regression lines fitted to plots of log power against log spatial frequency. RESULTS: The fractal dimensions estimates from digitized films were significantly greater than those produced from the CCD (P=0.0008). Estimated fractal dimensions of three types of bone were not significantly different (P=0.0544); however, the three regions of bones were significantly different (P=0.0239). The fractal dimensions estimated from radiographs of the proximal and distal regions of the bones were lower than comparable estimates obtained from the middle region. CONCLUSIONS: Different types of image receptors significantly affect estimates of fractal dimension. There was no difference in the fractal dimensions of the different bones but the three regions differed significantly.

NASA Discipline Musculoskeletal↗
DOE OSTI2024

Multi frame radiography of supersonic water jets interacting with a foil target

Pulsed-power-driven underwater electrical explosion of cylindrical or conical wire arrays produces supersonic water jets that emerge from a bath, propagating through the air above it. Interaction of these jets with solid targets may represent a new platform for attaining materials at high pressure (>1010 Pa) conditions in a university-scale laboratory. However, measurements of the internal structure of such jets and how they interact with targets are difficult optically due to large densities and density contrasts involved. We utilized multi-frame x-ray radiographic imaging capabilities of the ID19 beamline at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility to explore the water jet and its interaction with a 50 μm thick copper foil placed a few mm from the surface of water. The jet was generated with a ∼130 kA-amplitude current pulse of ∼450 ns rise time applied to a conical wire array. X-ray imaging revealed a droplet-type structure of the jet with an average density of <400 kg/m3 propagating with a velocity of ∼1400 m/s. Measurements of deformation and subsequent perforation of the target by the jet suggested pressures at the jet–target interface of ∼5 × 109 Pa. The results were compared to hydrodynamic simulations for better understanding of the jet parameters and their interaction with the foil target. These results can be used in future research to optimize the platform, and extend it to larger jet velocities in the case of higher driving currents supplied to the wire array.

Physics↗
NASA NTRS1992

Imaging of the hip joint. Computed tomography versus magnetic resonance imaging

The authors reviewed the applications and limitations of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the assessment of the most common hip disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging is the most sensitive technique in detecting osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Magnetic resonance reflects the histologic changes associated with osteonecrosis very well, which may ultimately help to improve staging. Computed tomography can more accurately identify subchondral fractures than MR imaging and thus remains important for staging. In congenital dysplasia of the hip, the position of the nonossified femoral head in children less than six months of age can only be inferred by indirect signs on CT. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrates the cartilaginous femoral head directly without ionizing radiation. Computed tomography remains the imaging modality of choice for evaluating fractures of the hip joint. In some patients, MR imaging demonstrates the fracture even when it is not apparent on radiography. In neoplasm, CT provides better assessment of calcification, ossification, and periosteal reaction than MR imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging, however, represents the most accurate imaging modality for evaluating intramedullary and soft-tissue extent of the tumor and identifying involvement of neurovascular bundles. Magnetic resonance imaging can also be used to monitor response to chemotherapy. In osteoarthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis of the hip, both CT and MR provide more detailed assessment of the severity of disease than conventional radiography because of their tomographic nature. Magnetic resonance imaging is unique in evaluating cartilage degeneration and loss, and in demonstrating soft-tissue alterations such as inflammatory synovial proliferation.

Review↗
DOE OSTI2025

High-resolution in-situ characterization of laser powder bed fusion via transmission X-ray microscopy at X-ray free electron lasers

In this work, we describe the instrumentation used to perform the first operando transmission X-ray microscopy (TXM) and simultaneous X-ray diffraction of laser melting simulating laser powder bed fusion on the XCS instrument at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL). Our TXM with 40× magnification in the X-ray regime at 11 keV gave spatial resolutions down to 940 nm per line pair, with effective pixel sizes down to 206 nm, image integration times of <100 fs, and frame rates tunable between 2.1 and 119 ns for two probe frames (0.48 GHz to 8.4 MHz). Images were recorded on Zyla and Icarus (UXI) detectors to trade off between spatial resolution and time dynamics. A 1 kW CW IR laser was coupled into the interaction point to conduct pump–probe studies of laser melting and solidification dynamics. Our temporal and spatial resolution with attenuation-based contrast exceeds that currently possible with synchrotron-based high-speed radiography. This system was sensitive to feature velocities of 10–12000 m s −1 but we did not observe any motion in this range in the laser melting of Al6061 alloy. Shockwaves were not observed and hot cracking proceeded at velocities below the detection limits. Pore accumulation was observed between successive shots, indicating that bubble escape mechanisms were not active. With proper experimental design, the spatial resolution, contrast and field of view could be further improved or modified. The increased brightness and narrower bandwidth of the XFEL allowed for this imaging technique and it lays the groundwork for a wide range of operando techniques to study additive manufacturing.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2024

The battery failure databank: Insights from an open-access database of thermal runaway behaviors of Li-ion cells and a resource for benchmarking risks

The thermal response of Li-ion cells can greatly vary for identical cell designs tested under identical conditions, the distribution of which is costly to fully characterize experimentally. The open-source Battery Failure Databank presented here contains robust, high-quality data from hundreds of abuse tests spanning numerous commercial cell designs and testing conditions. Data was gathered using a fractional thermal runaway calorimeter and contains the fractional breakdown of heat and mass that was ejected, as well as high-speed synchrotron radiography of the internal dynamic response of cells during thermal runaway. The distribution of thermal output, mass ejection, and internal response of commercial cells are compared for different abuse-test conditions, which when normalized on a per amp-hour basis show a strong positive correlation between heat output from cells, the fraction of mass ejected from the cells, their energy- and power-density. Ejected mass was shown to contain 10x more heat per gram than non-ejected mass. The causes of 'outlier' thermal and ejection responses i.e., extreme cases, are elucidated by high-speed radiography which showed how occurrences such as vent clogging can create more hazardous conditions. High-speed radiography also demonstrated how the time-resolved interplay of thermal runaway propagation and mass ejection influences the total heat generated.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2026

The role of focusing geometry in MeV x-ray production from petawatt laser–solid interaction

Relativistic laser–plasma interactions provide a compact and flexible route to generating bright, ultrashort pulses of MeV x rays, with applications in high-energy density science, nuclear physics, and radiography. Despite extensive study of intensity scaling in laser-driven electron acceleration, the role of focusing geometry and focal-volume effects in MeV radiation production remains insufficiently understood. Here, we present experimental and kinetic simulation results from the Texas Petawatt Laser (120 J, 140 fs) in which the focusing geometry (f/3 or f/1.5) is varied, while the laser energy and pulse duration are fixed. Experimentally, the f/3 geometry produces approximately three times more MeV radiation than the f/1.5 geometry, despite its twofold lower nominal vacuum intensity. This result is based on the time-integrated radiation per unit solid angle, as measured along the diagnostic line of sight. Three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations reproduce this trend when a modest (10s of μm) effective focal plane shift is introduced, demonstrating that relativistic laser–plasma coupling is highly sensitive to focal geometry in the presence of a preplasma. This behavior is consistent with differences in interaction length and effective intensity at the critical surface between the two configurations. The sensitivity of the tightly focused f/1.5 configuration ($z_R ≈$⁠ 5 μ m) reflects the combined influence of thermal lensing and an extended preplasma, while the f/3 geometry (⁠$z_R ≈$ 80 μ m) remains comparatively robust. These results demonstrate a breakdown of conventional intensity scaling and identify focusing geometry as a critical control parameter for MeV electron and x-ray generation at petawatt powers. Implications for laser–plasma-based radiographic facilities are also discussed.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Assessing the performance of MagLIF with 3D MHD simulations

The Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) experimental platform at Sandia National Laboratories has realized a number of recent improvements in electrical current and laser preheat coupling but fusion yields are below expectations, based on modeling with clean (that is, simulations with no interfacial instabilities and no mix) two-dimensional (2D) magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD) simulations, by a factor of 5 or more. However, magnetized liner implosions are known to produce helical magneto-Rayleigh–Taylor (MRT) modes and complex stagnation structures that cannot be directly modeled in 2D. This paper presents the results of 3D HYDRA MHD simulations, including helical MRT, showing that degradation from these instabilities can readily reproduce experimental yields, but it is difficult to simultaneously match the yield along with inferred fuel temperature, pressure, and burn history (assessed with x-rays), which are larger in the experiments considered here. Additional analysis methods and future experiments are proposed to help address the discrepancies. The 3D simulations also show, without substantive improvements to stability, changing the applied Bz or preheat is unlikely to increase performance of MagLIF to the same degree as clean 2D simulations. Finally, the first 3D HYDRA simulations with the Hall term show the ab initio production of helical MRT and produce a clear change in stagnation morphology compared to pre-seeded simulations without Hall. In spite of the differences, the simulations still produce comparable fusion performance but with longer, lower power, neutron yield history.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2024

Advances in laser-based bremsstrahlung x-ray sources. I. Optimizing laser-accelerated electrons

In this work, we have performed a suite of kinetic simulations of relativistic laser–plasma interaction under settings relevant to recent and planned experiments on a variety of laser systems. The goal of the study is to illuminate the physics of laser–target coupling and to provide guidance for how to optimize these sources for applications. It is shown that the production of relativistic electrons is maximized when conditions of relativistic induced transparency (RIT) in dense plasmas can be achieved over a large interaction volume at the time of arrival of most intense part of the laser pulse. RIT is shown to enhance both the numbers of relativistic electrons and the energies of the electrons, leading to an increased x-ray dose. A variety of approaches to enhancing laser–target coupling are considered. These include optimizing the effects of low-density pre-plasma (arising either from finite laser pedestal or from the use of foam coatings) and of modifying the laser focusing geometry to reduce effects of filamentation and self-focusing. Evidence of a novel approach to achieving stable laser propagation over distances of tens of micrometers in a plasma gradient is also presented. These conditions coincide with plasma and laser conditions explored in recent experiments on the Omega EP laser system and compare favorably with an analytic criterion for stable laser propagation in relativistically underdense plasma obtained from a nonlinear Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin analysis.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS2004

Goal-directed ultrasound in the detection of long-bone fractures

BACKGROUND: New portable ultrasound (US) systems are capable of detecting fractures in the remote setting. However, the accuracy of ultrasound by physicians with minimal ultrasound training is unknown. METHODS: After one hour of standardized training, physicians with minimal US experience clinically evaluated patients presenting with pain and trauma to the upper arm or leg. The investigators then performed a long-bone US evaluation, recording their impression of fracture presence or absence. Results of the examination were compared with routine plain or computer aided radiography (CT). RESULTS: 58 patients were examined. The sensitivity and specificity of US were 92.9% and 83.3%, and of the physical examination were 78.6% and 90.0%, respectively. US provided improved sensitivity with less specificity compared with physical examination in the detection of fractures in long bones. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound scans by minimally trained clinicians may be used to rule out a long-bone fracture in patients with a medium to low probability of fracture.

Validation Studies↗
NASA NTRS1985

Assessment of metabolic bone diseases by quantitative computed tomography

Advances in the radiologic sciences have permitted the development of numerous noninvasive techniques for measuring the mineral content of bone, with varying degrees of precision, accuracy, and sensitivity. The techniques of standard radiography, radiogrammetry, photodensitometry, Compton scattering, neutron activation analysis, single and dual photon absorptiometry, and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) are described and reviewed in depth. Results from previous cross-sectional and longitudinal QCT investigations are given. They then describe a current investigation in which they studied 269 subjects, including 173 normal women, 34 patients with hyperparathyroidism, 24 patients with steroid-induced osteoporosis, and 38 men with idiopathic osteoporosis. Spinal quantitative computed tomography, radiogrammetry, and single photon absorptiometry were performed, and a spinal fracture index was calculated on all patients. The authors found a disproportionate loss of spinal trabecular mineral compared to appendicular mineral in the men with idiopathic osteoporosis and the patients with steroid-induced osteoporosis. They observed roughly equivalent mineral loss in both the appendicular and axial regions in the hyperparathyroid patients. The appendicular cortical measurements correlated moderately well with each other but less well with spinal trabecular QCT. The spinal fracture index correlated well with QCT and less well with the appendicular measurements. Knowledge of appendicular cortical mineral status is important in its own right but is not a valid predictor of axial trabecular mineral status, which may be disproportionately decreased in certain diseases. Quantitative CT provides a reliable means of assessing the latter region of the skeleton, correlates well with the spinal fracture index (a semiquantitative measurement of end-organ failure), and offers the clinician a sensitive means of following the effects of therapy.

Minerals/analysis↗
NASA NTRS2025

Limitations and Feasibility of Mini X-Ray Devices in Space Environments

LIMITATIONS AND FEASIBILITY OF MINI X-RAY DEVICES IN SPACE ENVIRONMENTS As space exploration advances toward long-duration missions, reliable medical diagnostic tools become increasingly critical. The miniature x-ray (XR) technology demonstrations by the Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) and the Exploration Medical Integrated Product Team (XMIPT) aim to assess the feasibility and utility of miniature XR devices in spaceflight. This abstract explores the limitations of current miniature XR systems, the challenges of training crew members, the potential role of clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and the feasibility of ground-based image interpretation. We also propose the integration of miniature XR into other ExMC efforts aimed at identifying the capabilities and resources needed for future exploration class missions. One of the primary challenges with miniature XR devices is the ability to achieve specific anatomical views, particularly in the confined and weightless conditions of a spacecraft. Operators may struggle to acquire diagnostic-quality images when space is limited for proper patient positioning and the volume of the imaging device. Since space radiation and detector limitations may further impact image quality, the flexibility of the operating procedures of these devices will be critical for their success in space applications. CHALLENGES IN TRAINING CREW TO OPERATE IMAGING DEVICES Training in the skills necessary to acquire diagnostic-quality scans may be a barrier for non-clinician crewmembers. The curriculum developed for crew medical officers (CMOs) will require simplification and adaptation to fit into the highly truncated pre-flight training period. Therefore, hands-on familiarization and simulation, both pre-flight and just-in-time training during missions, will be crucial to ensuring the crew can operate the devices in real-life situations. The ability to adjust acquisition parameters must be simplified or made automatic through exam selections on equipment user interfaces, and subject and operator positioning should be assisted with laser guidance and pictorial guides. POTENTIAL FOR CDSS OR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)-ASSISTED CDSS CDSS and AI-assisted CDSS offer significant promise in assisting crew members with limited medical training. These systems could provide real-time feedback on image quality and interpretation, helping to mitigate the risks of human error during space missions. Integrating procedural guidance tools, such as virtual and augmented reality, will support crewmembers in accurately positioning patients and obtaining high-quality images. However, the success of such systems will depend on the development of robust training datasets, integration with spaceflight-rated hardware, and the medical decision-making capabilities of operators. FEASIBILITY OF GROUND INTERPRETATION AND DATA TRANSMISSION Reliance on ground-based interpretation may prove difficult for acute care during exploration class-missions due to delays in transmission with increasing distance from Earth or complete communication blackout periods. In such instances where immediate interpretation for clinical intervention is required, crew must be able to interpret the images independently or utilize AI-based assistance to do so. File sizes for XR exams can also be large if numerous images are acquired and bandwidth constraints may limit data transmissions for both radiography and ultrasound exams. FUTURE WORK AND INTEGRATION INTO THE EVIDENCE LIBRARY Future work proposes integrating miniature XR devices into NASA’s Evidence Library to address medical conditions identified as significant contributors to crew morbidity and mortality. The possibility of combining miniature XR with other imaging modalities, such as ultrasound devices, is also under investigation. In conclusion, while miniature XR technology holds potential for extraterrestrial medical systems, there are significant challenges to overcome. Training, integration of AI tools, dedicated exam protocols for microgravity, and improved data transmission systems will be key to realizing the full benefits of miniature XR technology in space.

A M Nelson↗
DOE OSTI2024

Optical versus radiographic imaging and tomography: introduction to the ROADS feature issue

Optical imaging is an ancient branch of imaging dating back to thousands of years. Radiographic imaging and tomography (RadIT), including the first use of X-rays by Wilhelm Röntgen, and then, $γ$ -rays, energetic charged particles, neutrons, etc. are about 130 years young. The synergies between optical and radiographic imaging can be cast in the framework of these building blocks: Physics, Sources, Detectors, Methods, and Data Science, as described in Appl. Opt. 61, RDS1 (2022). Optical imaging has expanded to include three-dimensional (3D) tomography (including holography), due in to part the invention of optical (including infrared) lasers. RadIT are intrinsically 3D because of the penetrating power of ionizing radiation. Both optical imaging and tomography (OIT) and RadIT are evolving into even higher dimensional regimes, such as time-resolved tomography (4D) and temporarily and spectroscopically resolved tomography (4D + ). Further advances in OIT and RadIT will continue to be driven by desires for higher information yield, higher resolutions, and higher probability models with reduced uncertainties. Synergies in quantum physics, laser-driven sources, low-cost detectors, data-driven methods, automated processing of data, and artificially intelligent data acquisition protocols will be beneficial to both branches of imaging in many applications. These topics, along with an overview of the Radiography, Applied Optics, and Data Science virtual feature issue, are discussed here.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
NASA NTRS1967

Mechanized X-ray inspection system for large tanks

Mechanized X ray equipment provides nondestructive inspection of structural weldments at various positions on very large tanks. It mechanizes the placement of the film, automates the identification process, adheres to safety requirements, and eliminates all the usual time-consuming manual operations in industrial radiography.

Occhipinti, G. C.↗
NASA NTRS1976

Acquisition of quantitative physiological data and computerized image reconstruction using a single scan TV system

A single-scan radiography system has been interfaced to a minicomputer, and the combined system has been used with a variety of fluoroscopic systems and image intensifiers available in clinical facilities. The system's response range is analyzed, and several applications are described. These include determination of the gray scale for typical X-ray-fluoroscopic-television chains, measurement of gallstone volume in patients, localization of markers or other small anatomical features, determinations of organ areas and volumes, computer reconstruction of tomographic sections of organs in motion, and computer reconstruction of transverse axial body sections from fluoroscopic images. It is concluded that this type of system combined with a minimum of statistical processing shows excellent capabilities for delineating small changes in differential X-ray attenuation.

Baily, N. A.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Neutron radiographic testing for hydrogen embrittlement

Neutron radiography (N-ray) inspection is similar to X-ray inspection in that both depend on variations in attenuation to achieve object contrast. However, effectiveness of methods differs significantly when certain combinations of elements are examined. Mass attenuation coefficient for N-rays is function of both scattering and capture possibilities for each element; thus, density of thickness of material is less important in determining its transparency to neutrons.

Dunstan, J.↗