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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
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NASA NTRS2022

Aquatic Primary Productivity Field Protocols for Satellite Validation and Model Synthesis

In 2018, a working group sponsored by the NASA Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, and ocean Ecosystem (PACE) project, in conjunction with the International Ocean Colour Coordinating Group (IOCCG), European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT), and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), was assembled with the aim to develop community consensus on multiple methods for measuring aquatic primary productivity used for satellite validation and model synthesis. A workshop to commence the working group efforts was held December 5–7, 2018, at the University Space Research Association headquarters in Columbia, MD, USA, bringing together 26 active researchers from 16 institutions. In this document, we discuss and develop the workshop findings as they pertain to primary productivity measurements, including the essential issues, nuances, definitions, scales, uncertainties, and ultimately best practices for data collection across multiple methodologies.

ocean color↗
NASA NTRS2010

Sorbent, Sublimation, and Icing Modeling Methods: Experimental Validation and Application to an Integrated MTSA Subassembly Thermal Model

This paper details the validation of modeling methods for the three core components of a Metabolic heat regenerated Temperature Swing Adsorption (MTSA) subassembly, developed for use in a Portable Life Support System (PLSS). The first core component in the subassembly is a sorbent bed, used to capture and reject metabolically produced carbon dioxide (CO2). The sorbent bed performance can be augmented with a temperature swing driven by a liquid CO2 (LCO2) sublimation heat exchanger (SHX) for cooling the sorbent bed, and a condensing, icing heat exchanger (CIHX) for warming the sorbent bed. As part of the overall MTSA effort, scaled design validation test articles for each of these three components have been independently tested in laboratory conditions. Previously described modeling methodologies developed for implementation in Thermal Desktop and SINDA/FLUINT are reviewed and updated, their application in test article models outlined, and the results of those model correlations relayed. Assessment of the applicability of each modeling methodology to the challenge of simulating the response of the test articles and their extensibility to a full scale integrated subassembly model is given. The independent verified and validated modeling methods are applied to the development of a MTSA subassembly prototype model and predictions of the subassembly performance are given. These models and modeling methodologies capture simulation of several challenging and novel physical phenomena in the Thermal Desktop and SINDA/FLUINT software suite. Novel methodologies include CO2 adsorption front tracking and associated thermal response in the sorbent bed, heat transfer associated with sublimation of entrained solid CO2 in the SHX, and water mass transfer in the form of ice as low as 210 K in the CIHX.

Bower, Chad↗
DOE OSTI2026

Organic Rankine Cycle Integration and Optimization for High Efficiency CHP Genset Systems (Final Technical Report)

This project successfully advanced the integration of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology with reciprocating engine–based combined heat and power (CHP) systems to improve electrical efficiency, total CHP efficiency, and grid-responsive operation. Over three budget periods, the work progressed from high-temperature ORC component development and thermodynamic model validation to next-generation system design, working fluid transition, and techno-economic analysis. Key technical accomplishments include development and validation of a thermodynamic model capable of accurately predicting ORC performance across an expanded temperature and pressure envelope; successful identification and validation of low-global-warming-potential (GWP) working fluids—most notably R1233zd(E)—as viable replacements for R245fa; and demonstration of scalable ORC architectures suitable for integration with 1–20 MW class reciprocating engines. These advances enable flexible CHP configurations that can increase electrical output while maintaining high overall utilization of available thermal energy. The project also produced a clean-sheet design for a next-generation ORC system targeting substantially higher power output per unit, supported by detailed component selection, heat exchanger evaluation, and system-level modeling. Techno-economic analyses indicate that ORC-enabled flexible CHP systems can meet or exceed Department of Energy (DOE) efficiency targets while providing value to both facility operators and the electric grid.. Late-stage testing of the largest next-generation ORC prototype identified limitations related to pump net positive suction head (NPSH) requirements and condenser flooding under certain operating conditions. Although these issues constrained full validation of that configuration within the project timeframe, they provided clear and actionable design guidance for future system refinements. Importantly, validated modeling, smaller-scale testing, and working fluid evaluations confirmed the technical viability of the overall approach. In aggregate, this project met its core objectives by establishing validated design tools, de-risking key ORC technologies for CHP applications, and defining a credible pathway toward commercialization of flexible, high-efficiency CHP systems. The results form a strong foundation for continued development and deployment beyond the conclusion of the DOE-funded effort.

20 FOSSIL-FUELED POWER PLANTS↗
NASA NTRS2023

An Investigation into the Effect of Liquid Accumulation on Thermo-Physiologic State using an Advanced Moisture Model Coupled with a High Resolution Human Thermal Model

A physics-based mathematical model for simulating heat and moisture transport on the skin and within clothing was developed to improve the accuracy of human thermal modeling predictions. In a previous study, a set of sweating hotplate experiments was specifically created to obtain test data for model validation. The clothing moisture model was subsequently coupled with a human thermal model and tested by simulating human experiments described in the open literature, which served to verify the model’s ability to predict whole body thermo-physiologic state in work-rest cycles during which sweating was known to occur. In this study, a human subject test was specifically designed to validate the model’s ability to predict local and whole body sweat evaporation and accumulation on the surface of the body. The human subject test incorporated twelve clothed male subjects of moderate physical fitness, ages 18-30, which were prescribed a work-rest cycle in a climate-controlled chamber (25 °C, 50% RH). Two activity levels were considered during the active stage (4 MET vs. 6.5 MET), and two sets of ending ambient conditions were considered for the final rest stage (25 °C vs. 15 °C, 50% RH). Model predictions were compared to the measured local skin temperatures, core temperatures, and whole body sweat losses. In general, the model was able to reproduce the trends observed in the human subject trial, but more importantly, provided insight into how dynamic changes in liquid content can impact the evolution of local and whole body thermo-physiologic state. This study demonstrates the ability of an advanced moisture model to capture distinct physics attributable to moisture accumulation, allowing for increased accuracy in predicting human thermal state and for interpreting the results of measurements derived from human subject tests.

human thermal model↗
DOE OSTI2026

Comparing ICME simulations with scaled laboratory experiment

In stellar physics and astrophysics, numerical simulations and laboratory experiments are often compared to observational data to support their representation of the real world. However, there is also merit in comparing numerical simulations to properly scaled experiments, especially when the experiment and the simulation are both emulating the solar phenomena. Confirming the credibility of scaled experiments and their scaling with well-validated models is important to expand our knowledge of the associated physical phenomena. This is significant because experiments and simulations can be performed frequently, whereas observations may be limited by location, field of view, and missing data. In this work, we use the Alfvén Wave Solar atmosphere Model, a well-validated magnetohydrodynamic model, to simulate an interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME) and compare it to an experiment which provides a scaled analog to a physical ICME. The experiment was performed on the Big Red Ball facility and scaled using dimensionless parameters such as plasma β and magnetosonic Mach number to reproduce the main structure of an ICME. We compare the model-simulated temperature, density, and magnetic field to those from the experiment, as well as the scaling parameters used in the experiment, to those calculated from the simulation. This comparison is performed to further justify the scaling arguments made by the experiment. Additionally, the comparison would lead to the development of stronger scaling arguments for future experiments.

Bryant, K. [University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI ↗
NASA NTRS1991

Quantification of uncertainties in coupled material degradation processes - High temperature, fatigue and creep

This paper describes the development of methodology that provides for quantification of uncertainties in lifetime strength of aerospace materials subjected to a number of diverse effects. A probabilistic material degradation model, in the form of a randomized multifactor interaction equation, has been postulated for lifetime strength degradation of structural components of aerospace propulsion systems. The model includes effects that typically reduce lifetime strength and may include temperature, mechanical fatigue, creep and others. The paper also includes the analysis of experimental data from the open literature for Inconel 718. These data are used to provide an initial check for model validity, as well as for calibration of the model's empirical material constants. The model validity check and calibration is carried out for three effects, namely, high temperature, mechanical fatigue and creep.

Boyce, L.↗
NASA NTRS2006

Crash Certification by Analysis - Are We There Yet?

This paper addresses the issue of crash certification by analysis. This broad topic encompasses many ancillary issues including model validation procedures, uncertainty in test data and analysis models, probabilistic techniques for test-analysis correlation, verification of the mathematical formulation, and establishment of appropriate qualification requirements. This paper will focus on certification requirements for crashworthiness of military helicopters; capabilities of the current analysis codes used for crash modeling and simulation, including some examples of simulations from the literature to illustrate the current approach to model validation; and future directions needed to achieve "crash certification by analysis."

Jackson, Karen E.↗
NASA NTRS2008

Verifying and Validating Proposed Models for FSW Process Optimization

This slide presentation reviews Friction Stir Welding (FSW) and the attempts to model the process in order to optimize and improve the process. The studies are ongoing to validate and refine the model of metal flow in the FSW process. There are slides showing the conventional FSW process, a couple of weld tool designs and how the design interacts with the metal flow path. The two basic components of the weld tool are shown, along with geometries of the shoulder design. Modeling of the FSW process is reviewed. Other topics include (1) Microstructure features, (2) Flow Streamlines, (3) Steady-state Nature, and (4) Grain Refinement Mechanisms

Schneider, Judith↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Using Polarized PCRTM-Solar Model to Validate EMIT Surface Reflectance L2A Product

Using the vector linearized discrete ordinate radiative transfer model (VLIDORT), a multiple-scattering multi-layer scattering code, coupled with a fast principal component (PC) radiative transfer model (PCRTM), we can simulate hyperspectral radiation fields from visible to shortwave infrared (VSWIR), i.e., 250 nm to 2500 nm. Since only limited accurate line-by-line calculation using VLIDORT is needed, this coupled PCRTM-VLIDORT approach is very efficient for simulating hyperspectral VSWIR spectra. These simulations incorporate accurately defined optical properties (gas absorptions, molecular and aerosol/cloud particle scattering) and detailed surface reflectance inputs. In this study we used the current L2A products of the Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) imaging spectrometer as the inputs to PCRTM-VLIDORT to simulate EMIT spectra. Comparing the simulated spectra with EMIT measurements provides an efficient method to validate the current EMIT product.

Xiaozhen Xiong↗
NASA NTRS2002

Parametric Study of the Effect of Membrane Tension on Sunshield Dynamics

The NGST sunshield is a lightweight, flexible structure consisting of pretensioned membranes supported by deployable booms. The structural dynamic behavior of the sunshield must be well understood in order to predict its influence on observatory performance. A 1/10th scale model of the sunshield has been developed for ground testing to provide data to validate modeling techniques for thin film membrane structures. The validated models can then be used to predict the behaviour of the full scale sunshield. This paper summarizes the most recent tests performed on the 1/10th scale sunshield to study the effect of membrane preload on sunshield dynamics. Topics to be covered include the test setup, procedures, and a summary of results.

Ross, Brian↗
NASA NTRS1994

Adaptive model reduction for continuous systems via recursive rational interpolation

A method for adaptive identification of reduced-order models for continuous stable SISO and MIMO plants is presented. The method recursively finds a model whose transfer function (matrix) matches that of the plant on a set of frequencies chosen by the designer. The algorithm utilizes the Moving Discrete Fourier Transform (MDFT) to continuously monitor the frequency-domain profile of the system input and output signals. The MDFT is an efficient method of monitoring discrete points in the frequency domain of an evolving function of time. The model parameters are estimated from MDFT data using standard recursive parameter estimation techniques. The algorithm has been shown in simulations to be quite robust to additive noise in the inputs and outputs. A significant advantage of the method is that it enables a type of on-line model validation. This is accomplished by simultaneously identifying a number of models and comparing each with the plant in the frequency domain. Simulations of the method applied to an 8th-order SISO plant and a 10-state 2-input 2-output plant are presented. An example of on-line model validation applied to the SISO plant is also presented.

Lilly, John H.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Dynamic Testing of a Subscale Sunshield for the Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST)

The NGST sunshield is a lightweight, flexible structure consisting of pretensioned membranes supported by deployable booms. The structural dynamic behavior of the sunshield must be well understood in order to predict its influence on observatory dynamic performance. A 1/10th scale model of the sunshield has been developed for ground testing to provide data to validate modeling techniques for thin-film membrane structures. The validated models can then be used to predict the behavior of the full-scale sunshield. This paper provides an overview of two test series performed on the 1/10th scale sunshield and a comparison of the results from the tests.

Ross, Brian↗
NASA NTRS2018

6DOF Testing of the SLS Inertial Navigation Unit

The Navigation System on the NASA Space Launch System (SLS) Block 1 vehicle performs initial alignment of the Inertial Navigation System (INS) navigation frame through gyrocompass alignment (GCA). In lieu of direct testing of GCA accuracy in support of requirement verification, the SLS Navigation Team proposed and conducted an engineering test to, among other things, validate the GCA performance and overall behavior of the SLS INS model through comparison with test data. This paper will detail dynamic hardware testing of the SLS INS, conducted by the SLS Navigation Team at Marshall Space Flight Center's 6DOF Table Facility, in support of GCA performance characterization and INS model validation. A 6-DOF motion platform was used to produce 6DOF pad twist and sway dynamics while a simulated SLS flight computer communicated with the INS. Tests conducted include an evaluation of GCA algorithm robustness to increasingly dynamic pad environments, an examination of GCA algorithm stability and accuracy over long durations, and a long-duration static test to gather enough data for Allan Variance analysis. Test setup, execution, and data analysis will be discussed, including analysis performed in support of SLS INS model validation.

Geohagan, Kevin W.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Data for Selective Oxidation of 3-Hydroxypropionic Acid to Malonic Acid over Pd/C: Mechanistic and Kinetic Study

Malonic acid (MA) is a high-value dicarboxylic acid with strong industrial demand, yet its current production heavily relies on petrochemical feedstocks. Here, we report the first systematic study for the sustainable production of MA via oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) with a Pd/Carbon catalyst. The effects of oxidant type (O2 and H2O2), pH, and temperature on the reaction chemistry were comprehensively evaluated. Guided by experimental observation and DFT-calculated thermochemical energetics, reaction networks for 3-HP oxidation with both oxidants are proposed and validated through kinetic modeling. MA was identified as the primary oxidation product, while further oxidation yields acetic acid and oxalic acid. The kinetic model validated the network, displaying excellent agreement (R2 > 0.95). Kinetic observations also enabled a direct comparison between O2 and H2O2 and revealed their distinct behaviors. The model was further developed into a temperature-time map, providing insight into conditions that maximize MA production. Malonic acid selectivity of 56.9 % and yield of 50.5 % were achieved at 3 bar oxygen, equimolar NaOH:3-HP ratio, and 50 °C.

Bioproducts↗
DOE OSTI2026

Data and code from: Selective oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid to malonic acid over Pd/C: Mechanistic and kinetic study

Malonic acid (MA) is a high-value dicarboxylic acid with strong industrial demand, yet its current production heavily relies on petrochemical feedstocks. Here, we report the first systematic study for the sustainable production of MA via oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) with a Pd/Carbon catalyst. The effects of oxidant type (O2 and H2O2), pH, and temperature on the reaction chemistry were comprehensively evaluated. Guided by experimental observation and DFT-calculated thermochemical energetics, reaction networks for 3-HP oxidation with both oxidants are proposed and validated through kinetic modeling. MA was identified as the primary oxidation product, while further oxidation yields acetic acid and oxalic acid. The kinetic model validated the network, displaying excellent agreement (R2 > 0.95). Kinetic observations also enabled a direct comparison between O2 and H2O2 and revealed their distinct behaviors. The model was further developed into a temperature-time map, providing insight into conditions that maximize MA production. Malonic acid selectivity of 56.9 % and yield of 50.5 % were achieved at 3 bar oxygen, equimolar NaOH:3-HP ratio, and 50 °C.

3-Hydroxypropionic Acid↗
DOE OSTI2026

Selective oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid to malonic acid over Pd/C: Mechanistic and kinetic study

Malonic acid (MA) is a high-value dicarboxylic acid with strong industrial demand, yet its current production heavily relies on petrochemical feedstocks. Here, we report the first systematic study for sustainable production of MA via oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) with a Pd/Carbon catalyst. The effects of oxidant type (O 2 and H 2 O 2 ), pH, and temperature on the reaction chemistry were comprehensively evaluated. Guided by experimental observation and DFT-calculated thermochemical energetics, reaction networks for 3-HP oxidation with both oxidants are proposed and validated through kinetic modeling. MA was identified as the primary oxidation product, while further oxidation yields acetic acid and oxalic acid. The kinetic model validated the network, displaying excellent agreement (R 2 > 0.95). Kinetic observations also enabled a direct comparison between O 2 and H 2 O 2 and revealed their distinct behaviors. The model was further developed into a temperature-time map, providing insight into conditions that maximize MA production. Malonic acid selectivity of 56.9 % and yield of 50.5 % were achieved at 3 bar oxygen, equimolar NaOH:3-HP ratio, and 50 °C.

3-hydroxypropionic acid↗
NASA NTRS1996

Aeroservoelastic Modeling and Validation of a Thrust-Vectoring F/A-18 Aircraft

An F/A-18 aircraft was modified to perform flight research at high angles of attack (AOA) using thrust vectoring and advanced control law concepts for agility and performance enhancement and to provide a testbed for the computational fluid dynamics community. Aeroservoelastic (ASE) characteristics had changed considerably from the baseline F/A-18 aircraft because of structural and flight control system amendments, so analyses and flight tests were performed to verify structural stability at high AOA. Detailed actuator models that consider the physical, electrical, and mechanical elements of actuation and its installation on the airframe were employed in the analysis to accurately model the coupled dynamics of the airframe, actuators, and control surfaces. This report describes the ASE modeling procedure, ground test validation, flight test clearance, and test data analysis for the reconfigured F/A-18 aircraft. Multivariable ASE stability margins are calculated from flight data and compared to analytical margins. Because this thrust-vectoring configuration uses exhaust vanes to vector the thrust, the modeling issues are nearly identical for modem multi-axis nozzle configurations. This report correlates analysis results with flight test data and makes observations concerning the application of the linear predictions to thrust-vectoring and high-AOA flight.

Brenner, Martin J.↗