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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 253 records · Page 14
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

Final Scientific/Technical Report: Real Time Particle Size and Settling Velocity for In-Situ Monitoring of Deep-Sea Polymetallic Nodule Mining

In the coming decade, it is anticipated that deep-sea mining activities will commence throughout the deep ocean, at depths around 4000-6000m where vast deposits of baseball-sized rocks called polymetallic nodules lay on the seabed. These nodules contain resources such as cobalt, copper and nickel which are needed to produce batteries for electric vehicles. Collector machines driving on the seabed and gathering these nodules will stir up clouds of sediment, and there is concern about how the resulting concentration of sediment in the near-bottom ocean water will affect deep and mid-ocean biology. There is currently no technology capable of comprehensively monitoring the concentrations and properties of stirred up sediment in the deep. This project addressed this critical gap by developing a deep-sea particle measurement system (Real-Time Size and Settling Velocity, RTSSV) that uses a multi-camera high-resolution video imaging system, with accompanying image processing, to measure the concentration, size distribution and settling speed of sediment. Importantly, these measurements are made in-situ, so that delicate sediment aggregates will not be disturbed, as is the case when collecting samples at depth to be measured in the lab. The instrument can be mounted on a variety of established deep-sea platforms such as moorings, AUVs and ROVs, providing data in near real time, where the key measurements need to be made—from the source of the sediment disturbance and throughout the resulting plume—vital for determining if deep-sea mining can be done in an environmentally responsible manner. The developed system (RTSSV) will possess the only such capability worldwide, giving a US-based group a substantial competitive advantage as this newly evolving global industry develops. As added value, the technology will also have widespread application to the offshore oil and gas industry, dredging industry, and to sediment science research.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2022

Internal Standard Triggered-Parallel Reaction Monitoring Mass Spectrometry Enables Multiplexed Quantification of Candidate Biomarkers in Plasma

Despite advances in proteomic technologies, clinical translation of plasma biomarkers remains low, partly due to a major bottleneck between the discovery of candidate biomarkers and costly clinical validation studies. Due to a dearth of multiplexable assays, generally only a few candidate biomarkers are tested, and the validation success rate is accordingly low. Previously, mass spectrometry-based approaches have been used to fill this gap but feature poor quantitative performance and were generally limited to hundreds of proteins. Here, we demonstrate the capability of an internal standard triggered-parallel reaction monitoring (IS-PRM) assay to greatly expand the numbers of candidates that can be tested with improved quantitative performance. The assay couples immunodepletion and fractionation with IS-PRM and was developed and implemented in human plasma to quantify 5176 peptides representing 1314 breast cancer biomarker candidates. Characterization of the IS-PRM assay demonstrated the precision (median % CV of 7.7%), linearity (median R 2 > 0.999 over 4 orders of magnitude), and sensitivity (median LLOQ < 1 fmol, approximately) to enable rank-ordering of candidate biomarkers for validation studies. Using three plasma pools from breast cancer patients and three control pools, 893 proteins were quantified, of which 162 candidate biomarkers were verified in at least one of the cancer pools and 22 were verified in all three cancer pools. The assay greatly expands capabilities for quantification of large numbers of proteins and is well suited for prioritization of viable candidate biomarkers.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2026

Distribution System Congestion Management - A Survey of Reliable Integration for Aggregated Resources and Microgrids

Rising penetration of consumer-owned Distribution Grid Resources (DGRs), increasingly managed by third party aggregators and enrolled in grid services and wholesale market programs, can create localized congestion in distribution networks. Managing these constraints is challenging due to a persistent coordination and information gap: utilities are accountable for reliability and have network topology and state visibility, while aggregators control the DGR capability needed to relieve congestion. This survey synthesizes congestion management solutions for distribution systems with high DGR penetration, covering both market-based mechanisms (distribution level markets, locational pricing, flexibility auctions) and non-market-based solutions (network reconfiguration, direct DGR control, demand response, curtailment, etc.). The literature is organized across three decision horizons: long term planning, operational planning, and real-time operation. Special attention is devoted to emerging distribution system operator architectures and coordination frameworks spanning transmission system operators, aggregators, and microgrids. Drawing on recent case studies and implementations, we distill best practices, identify key technical and economic barriers, and outline research directions. The evidence points to a shift toward integrated congestion management that combines market signals with technical controls, enabled by improved monitoring, forecasting, and closed loop control capabilities.

Active Distribution Networks (ADN)↗
DOE OSTI2024

A Compact, Single Stage, >1 kV Medium-Voltage Line Impedance Stabilization Network

This paper presents the design of a single-phase, single-stage line impedance stabilization network (LISN) for medium-voltage (MV) applications. More than 1 kV rated widebandgap (WBG) power semiconductor switches are increasingly utilized in new, emerging power electronics energy systems to improve power density and efficiency. However, due to inherently fast-switching speeds, WBG switch modules emit considerable electromagnetic interference (EMI) (e.g., common mode (CM) or differential mode (DM)). State-of-the-art offers standardized LISN solutions to validate and certify the new energy system for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). However, most are for low voltage applications (i.e., < 1 kV). MV LISNs (i.e., > 1 kV) are rare until recently and literature does not provide sufficient guidelines for designing and characterizing such devices. It has been a critical challenge for many scientists and engineers to reliably certify the emerging MV energy systems (e.g., electric ships and aircraft). This paper addresses such a technology gap. Specifically, a CISPR 16-1-2 compliant 50Ω/50μH LISN with 1.5kV, 75A and 30MHz measurement capability has been proposed. Detailed performance study versus non-linear parasitic parameters variations in MV inductors and capacitors have been done. Based on new understandings, novel techniques to intuitively mitigate unwanted parasitic have been proposed to develop the proposed LISN successfully. Thorough characterization of important LISN parameters are presented and factors influencing them are analyzed. A rigorous analysis, experimental tests, and in-depth comparisons over state-of-the-art have been made to validate the effectiveness. This is done through the state-of-the-art 300kVA MV EMI testbed.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2021

Advancing the Predictability of Water Cycle Phenomena via the Application of AI to Model Ensemble Simulations and Observations

AI has the power to identify new pathways to extended predictability of the water cycle via its application to model ensembles together with accompanying observations. We discuss both scientific and technological aspects of this challenge, and address the parts of the MODEX approach involving “Model simulations, evaluation, analysis, and benchmarking” and “Identification of key knowledge gaps”. The widespread incorporation of AI into model analysis will significantly advance Earth system predictability and our predictive capabilities.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2023

Progress Report on Identification and Resolution of Gaps in Mechanistic Source Term Modeling for Molten Salt Reactors

This report summarizes FY23 activities to improve mechanistic source term modeling for MSR concepts. Relevant MELCOR capability enhancements made during FY23 are summarized including development of a flexible python-based EOS generator (MELEOS), porous domain modeling capabilities for validation applications, and development of a MELCOR model for the LSTL facility in anticipation of upcoming molten salt experiments.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2021

Phase Stability of Yttrium Titanium Oxide

This proposed study aims at elevating Idaho National Laboratory (INL)’s portfolio in nuclear material research on two major fronts: 1) expanding INL’s material characterization capabilities to provide holistic microstructural and microchemical characterization ranging from atomic scale to millimeter scale, and 2) filling the knowledge gap on the effect of microstructural evolution on material phase stability at extreme conditions resembling those inside nuclear reactors, using Yttrium-Titanium-Oxide (YTO) as a model material. Previous research indicated the kinetics of phase transition of YTO materials varies between bulk samples and powder samples, suggesting that microstructural characteristics such as defect, micro-strain, and crystallite size could play a significant role in phase transition. The effect of crystallite size on the thermodynamics of phase transition has been well documented for other ceramic materials at nanometer crystallite size, with potential impacts from surface and strain energy and defects. In this proposed study, we will perform microstructural (micro-strain, crystallite size, defects, phase) and microchemical (elemental mapping) analyses through in-situ high temperature measurements using X-ray diffraction (XRD; at millimeter scale for powder and bulk samples) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM, at nanometer scale and atomic scale for powder and thin foil samples), to provide a comprehensive view of the effect of microstructural and microchemical evolution on phase transition and phase stability of YTO materials. These findings will also establish a roadmap and provide new insights on the phase stability of other materials that are critical to nuclear energy and other renewable energy infrastructure. Besides advancing our understanding of this fundamental material science question, this project will also enable the development of state-of-the-art material characterization capabilities at INL/MFC for microstructural and microchemical analysis at high temperature conditions. The new collaboration between the High-Resolution Materials Characterization group at INL and the Electron Microscopy group at the University of Florida (UF) in this project will open the possibilities for more fruitful and synergetic cutting-edge nuclear material research in the future.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Remote sensing of planetary boundary layer from ground and space: Structure, thermodynamics, and boundary layer clouds

The planetary boundary layer (PBL) is a critical interface between Earth's surface and atmosphere, influencing atmospheric convection, weather patterns, and air quality. Recognized by the 2017 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Earth Science Decadal Survey as an Incubation Targeted Observable, high-quality and effective observation of the PBL has become a priority. This paper reviews surface-based and satellite remote sensing techniques for characterizing PBL features, including PBL height (PBLH), boundary layer thermodynamics, turbulence, and boundary layer clouds (BLCs). These elements are treated as interconnected aspects of the PBL system, while recognizing that different instruments retrieve different physical manifestations of the PBL. The review summarizes recent advances and limitations in Micro-Pulse Lidar (MPL), Doppler lidar, Raman lidar, Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL), ceilometers, wind profilers, GNSS Radio Occultation, radar, and hyperspectral sounders. These observations help trace dynamic processes within the PBL and link PBL structure to broader weather and climate processes. The review also highlights persistent observational gaps over oceans, remote land, and polar regions, where continuous surface-based profiling is sparse. By comparing instrument capabilities, practical limitations, and interpretation issues, this review emphasizes the need for integrated remote sensing approaches and careful definition of the retrieved PBL quantities.

Boundary layer clouds↗
DOE OSTI2021

Effectiveness and nonlinear characterization of vibro-impact energy harvesting absorbers in controlling base-excited systems

In this study, model derivations are carried out of a dynamical system under base excitations with a piezoelectric energy harvesting absorber as the tuned-mass-damper. Additionally, amplitude stoppers are included to the absorber in order to create a broadband resonant response, increasing the window of operational use for energy harvesting and system's control. This study is unique in the fact that the energy harvester is coupled to the source of its excitation. A nonlinear reduced-order model is developed using Euler–Lagrange principle and the Galerkin method to accurately estimate the energy harvesting absorber's displacement, harvested power, and the oscillating response of the primary structure. The nonlinear interaction of the energy harvesting absorber and the amplitude stoppers are the focus of this study, where an in-depth investigation of bifurcation points of the primary structure and energy harvesting absorber responses is performed. Due to a transfer of energy between the primary structure and the absorber, it is shown that a soft stopper with stiffness $5 \times {10^3}\,{\text{N}}\;{{\text{m}}^{ - 1}}\,$ has great control of the primary structure with 60% of the uncontrolled amplitude being reduced, as well as an increase of the harvested energy. Medium stoppers with small initial gaps size and hard stoppers do not control the primary structure and show a decrease in the energy harvesting capabilities due to the activation of the nonlinear contact-impact interactions. Finally, these stoppers also generate aperiodic regions due to the possible presence of grazing bifurcations.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2021

Multi-Resolution Characterization of the Coupling Effects of Molten Salts, High Temperature and Irradiation on Intergranular Fracture

This project focused on providing a fundamental physico-chemical understanding of the coupling mechanisms of corrosion- and radiation-induced degradation at material-salt interfaces in Ni-based alloys operating in emulated Molten Salt Reactor(MSR) environments through the use of a unique suite of aging experiments, in-situ nanoscale characterization experiments on these materials, and multi-physics computational models. The technical basis and capabilities described in this report bring us a step closer to accelerate the deployment of MSRs by closing knowledge gaps related to materials degradation in harsh environments.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗
DOE OSTI2024

National Reactor Innovation Center Update

Authorized by the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (NEICA) DOE-Office of Nuclear Energy; INL Nuclear Science & Tech Partner with industry to bridge the gap between research and commercial deployment Leverage national lab expertise and infrastructure

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Perspectives on Potential Advanced Construction Technologies for Nuclear Energy

NRIC Enables Nuclear Reactor Tests & Demonstrations Authorized by the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (NEICA) DOE-Office of Nuclear Energy; INL Nuclear Science & Tech Partner with industry to bridge the gap between research and commercial deployment Leverage national lab expertise and infrastructure

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Infrastructure improvements in the National Reactor Innovation Center Virtual Test Bed

The National Reactor Innovation Center’s (NRIC) mission is to support deployment of novel reactor concepts. This is achieved by providing physical and virtual spaces for building and testing various components, systems, and complete pilot plants. The Virtual Test Bed (VTB) represents the virtual counterpart to the physical test bed. The VTB is being developed in collaboration with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) program. The mission of the VTB is to accelerate the deployment and licensing of advanced reactors by leveraging state-of-the-art modeling and simulation (M&S) tools developed by the DOE NEAMS program. This is accomplished via three primary means: (1) openly hosting simulations that showcase analysis capabilities, (2) continuously testing the models hosted against code updates to avoid deprecation, and (3) filling key M&S gaps that are relevant for the physical NRIC test beds. The VTB repository consists of two sub-entities: • A documentation website detailing the models: https://mooseframework.inl.gov/virtual_test_bed • A GitHub repository that hosts the corresponding files: https://github.com/idaholab/virtual_test_bed. This paper presents the infrastructure added to the VTB in the last two fiscal years. Additional information about the VTB can be found in various publications [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8].

22 - GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Status of New Models Hosted on the Virtual Test Bed (VTB) in 2024

The National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) mission is to support deployment of novel reactor concepts. This is achieved by providing physical and virtual spaces for building and testing various components, systems, and complete pilot plants. The Virtual Test Bed (VTB) represents the virtual counterpart to the physical test bed. It is in development in collaboration with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) program. The mission of the VTB is to accelerate the deployment and licensing of advanced reactors by leveraging state-of-the-art modeling and simulation (M&S) tools developed by the DOE NEAMS program. This is accomplished by three primary means: (1) openly hosting simulations that showcase analysis capabilities, (2) continuously testing the models hosted against code updates to avoid deprecation, and (3) filling key M&S gaps that are relevant for the physical NRIC test beds. The VTB repository consists of two sub-entities: 1. A documentation website detailing the models (https://mooseframework.inl.gov/virtual_test_bed). 2. A GitHub repository that hosts the corresponding files (https://github.com/idaholab/virtual_test_bed). Previous documentation on the models hosted in the VTB can be found in [1,2,3,4]. These references also include additional background information on the various NEAMS codes showcased in the VTB (which is omitted here for brevity). This paper primarily provides a status update of the most recent additions to the repository.

22 - GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2025

Enabling Nuclear Systems Through Demonstrations

DOE program launched in October 2019 Authorized by the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (NEICA) DOE-Office of Nuclear Energy; INL Nuclear Science & Tech Partner with industry to bridge the gap between research and commercial deployment Leverage national lab expertise and infrastructure

22 - GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Fiscal Year 2024 Software Quality Assurance Activities for the ARC Software

The continued goal of the ARC SQA project in the Advanced Reactor Technologies program of DOE is to resolve the QA gaps for the ARC software that limit, or prevent, commercialization of the software for industry users. This project started in earnest in fiscal year 2023 which saw the entire code system moved from a SVN repository to a GitLab repository and an associated software quality assurance plan (SQAP) developed and ratified. Most of the QA gaps in the ARC software were identified in collaboration with industry partners and work begin in fiscal year 2023 and continued in 2024. The primary documentation that is missing includes user manuals, user guides, software verification reports, and code coverage assessments. The SUMMAR manual was completed this fiscal year and work was started on creating manuals for SE2ANL, SE2RCT, and DASSH. Software verification work was carried out for DIF3D and REBUS in a previous program and the current fiscal year saw the completion of software verification reports for GAMSOR, GAMSRC, VARPOW, EvaluateFlux, and SUMMAR. The goal for the next fiscal year is to complete the PERSENT software verification work and begin planning the software verification work for DASSH, SE2ANL, and SE2RCT. The code coverage reports for DIF3D and MC2-3 were completed in the previous fiscal year and the goal is to generate code coverage reports for REBUS, GAMSOR, PERSENT, and DASSH in the coming fiscal year. A considerable amount of effort was spent in the current fiscal year working on the continuous integration capability for automated regression testing in GitLab. The first version of the testing was created in the previous fiscal year and applied to DIF3D and its utility programs. That testing was extended this year to cover GAMSOR, REBUS, and PERSENT. To accomplish this, the first version of the new testing methodology had to be updated to make a single output checking methodology viable for all of the ARC software. This will result in a single document to detail the automated regression testing methodology and minor documents to detail the tolerance settings that have been applied to the output for each ARC code. The previous methodology put into place with SVN would have required a separate document for each ARC code to detail the output checking methodology and the tolerance settings for the output from each code. Because some of our industry partners are providing funds to add new capabilities to the ARC software to meet their needs, all of which must be reviewed and approved by the SQA program funded by this project, a summary of that development work is detailed in this report. Overall progress on resolving the QA gaps has been good this year with the most impactful improvement for our industry partners in capability being the creation of a threaded version of DIF3D-VARIANT that allows the DIF3D, REBUS, and GAMSOR run times to be reduced by a factor of 4-6. The most impactful QA gap that was resolved was the software verification of GAMSRC and VARPOW.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2024

Transformer with integral inductor

In accordance with one embodiment is a transformer with a core comprising a perimeter portion and central intervening portion. The central intervening portion is separated from the perimeter portion by air gaps, creating an opening on either side of the intervening portion. A primary winding and secondary winding are wound around the central intervening portion of the core. The primary winding is capable of electromagnetic interaction with the secondary winding. A pair of ferrite members arranged outward from a central axis of the central intervening portion of the core and increases a series inductance with the primary winding. In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, each ferrite member may have an air gap associated with the core to facilitate heat dissipation from the transformer.

Rastogi, Sagar K.↗