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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

Discovery: Strategic Foresight – Helping Aviation Find Problems Worth Solving

Strategic foresight is used in the early stages of the CAS (Convergent Aeronautics Solutions) process. We discover trends, needs, and capabilities from interviews with diverse groups of people, data analytics tools, and from publications. These are analyzed in the context of future scenarios to uncover problem areas that have the highest possible impact on the broadest number of people while ensuring that we are prepared for the future.

Foresight Strategy Complex wicked↗

Discovery: Strategic Foresight – Helping Aviation Find Problems Worth Solving

Strategic foresight is used in the early stages of the CAS (Convergent Aeronautics Solutions) process. We discover trends, needs, and capabilities from interviews with diverse groups of people, data analytics tools, and from publications. These are analyzed in the context of future scenarios to uncover problem areas that have the highest possible impact on the broadest number of people while ensuring that we are prepared for the future.

Foresight↗

In-situ ion irradiation of a spent UO2 fuel: evolution of fission products and nanograins with radiation dose

This study investigates the behavior of fission gas bubbles, five metal precipitates (5MPs) (Mo, Ru, Rh, Tc, Pd) and nanograins in spent uranium dioxide (UO2) fuel under various ion irradiation doses, temperatures, and flux conditions. Utilizing in-situ ion irradiation and advanced transmission electron microscopy, we analyzed the evolution of fission gas bubbles, 5MPs and nanograins in UO2 samples from the Belgium Reactor 3 (BR-3). Our findings reveal significant shrinkage of fission gas bubbles and 5MPs with increasing irradiation dose, accompanied by a decrease in pair density. The study also reveals nanograin coarsening under irradiation. We demonstrate that ion irradiation induces a homogeneous re-solution process where individual atoms are ejected from bubbles and precipitates, leading to their dissolution and subsequent re-precipitation in the matrix. This study provides critical insights into the dynamic behavior of fission products and nanograins under irradiation, facilitating the development of predictive models and contributing to the optimization of nuclear fuel performance and safety.

11 - NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

An expert system for natural language processing

A solution to the natural language processing problem that uses a rule based system, written in OPS5, to replace the traditional parsing method is proposed. The advantage to using a rule based system are explored. Specifically, the extensibility of a rule based solution is discussed as well as the value of maintaining rules that function independently. Finally, the power of using semantics to supplement the syntactic analysis of a sentence is considered.

Hennessy, John F.↗

The processing of the Viking Orbiter range data and its contribution to Mars gravity solutions

The processing of Doppler data has been the primary method for deriving models of the Mars gravity field. Since the Mariner 9 and Viking spacecraft were placed in orbit about Mars, many models from degree and order 6 to degree and order 50 have been developed. However, during the Viking mission, some 26,000 range measurements to the two Viking Orbiters were also obtained. These data have not previously been used in the derivation of Mars gravity models. A portion of these range data have been processed simultaneously with the Doppler data. Normal equations were generated for both sets of data and were used to create two solutions complete to degree and order 30: a nominal solution including both the range and the Doppler data (MGM-R100), and another solution including only the Doppler data (MGM-R101). Tests with the covariances of these solutions, as well as with orbit overlap tests indicate that the interplanetary range data can be used to improve the modeling of the Mars gravity field.

Lemoine, Frank G.↗

Methods for predicting properties and tailoring salt solutions for industrial processes

An algorithm developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory accurately and quickly predicts thermodynamic properties of concentrated aqueous salt solutions. This algorithm is much simpler and much faster than other modeling schemes and is unique because it can predict solution behavior at very high concentrations and under varying conditions. Typical industrial applications of this algorithm would be in manufacture of inorganic chemicals by crystallization, thermal storage, refrigeration and cooling, extraction of metals, emissions controls, etc.

Ally, Moonis R.↗

Specimen analysis of Skylab, M553 experiment, flight specimens, phase C.

Skylab 2 flight samples were analyzed to study containerless solidification and the effects of weightlessness on the process. A record of solute redistribution processes and of solidification terracing is reported. The solute redistribution process was highly localized, and low index, crystallographic system were suggested. Samples demonstrated that under reduced pressure and gravity conditions the anticipated solid/liquid solidification process was perturbed and superseded by solid/liquid/gas reactions during melting and solidification.

Larson, D. J., Jr.↗

Anodizing And Sealing Aluminum In Nonchromated Solutions

Improved process for anodizing and sealing aluminum involves use of 5 volume percent sulfuric acid in water as anodizing solution, and 1.5 to 2.0 volume percent nickel acetate in water as sealing solution. Replaces process in which sulfuric acid used at concentrations of 10 to 20 percent. Improved process yields thinner coats offering resistance to corrosion, fatigue life, and alloy-to-alloy consistency equal to or superior to those of anodized coats produced with chromated solutions.

Emmons, John R.↗

Assessment of Edge-Based Viscous Method for Corner-Flow Solutions on Graphics Processing Units

A highly efficient, edge-based viscous (EBV) discretization method has been recently implemented in a practical, unstructured-grid, node-centered, finite-volume flow solver and evaluated for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) formulations. In comparison to a well-established cell-based viscous (CBV) method, the EBV method has demonstrated multifold acceleration of all viscous-kernel computations on general unstructured mixed-element grids. The viscous kernels include evaluation of viscous fluxes, diffusion terms in turbulence models, and the corresponding Jacobian terms. In this paper, an EBV implementation of a nonlinear extension of the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model, SA-neg-QCR2000, is presented and verified. The SA-neg-QCR2000 model is used for simulating turbulent corner flows. Previously reported EBV computations have been conducted on traditional computing architectures based on central processing units (CPU). This paper assesses benefits of the EBV method on modern high-performance computing architectures based on graphics processing units (GPU). The GPU implementations of the CBV and EBV methods are verified by comparing solutions and iterative convergence with those observed in CPU computations on the same grids. A comprehensive assessment of the EBV speedup on CPU and GPU architectures is presented for established benchmark corner flows, namely, a supersonic flow through a long square duct and a subsonic flow around a NASA juncture flow model.

CFD↗

Assessment of Edge-Based Viscous Method for Corner-Flow Solutions on Graphics Processing Units

A highly efficient, edge-based viscous (EBV) discretization method has been recently implemented in a practical, unstructured-grid, node-centered, finite-volume flow solver and evaluated for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) formulations. In comparison to a well-established cell-based viscous (CBV) method, the EBV method has demonstrated multifold acceleration of all viscous-kernel computations on general unstructured mixed-element grids. The viscous kernels include evaluation of viscous fluxes, diffusion terms in turbulence models, and the corresponding Jacobian terms. In this paper, an EBV implementation of a nonlinear extension of the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model, SA-neg-QCR2000, is presented and verified. The SA-neg-QCR2000 model is used for simulating turbulent corner flows. Previously reported EBV computations have been conducted on traditional computing architectures based on central processing units (CPU). This paper assesses benefits of the EBV method on modern high-performance computing architectures based on graphics processing units (GPU). The GPU implementations of the CBV and EBV methods are verified by comparing solutions and iterative convergence with those observed in CPU computations on the same grids. A comprehensive assessment of the EBV speedup on CPU and GPU architectures is presented for established benchmark corner flows, namely, a supersonic flow through a long square duct and a subsonic flow around a NASA juncture flow model.

CFD↗

Fiber Attachment Module Experiment (FAME): Using a Multiplexed Miniature Hollow Fiber Membrane Bioreactor Solution for Rapid Process Testing

Bioreactor research is mostly limited to continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTRs) which are not an option for microgravity (g) applications due to the lack of a gravity gradient to drive aeration as described by the Archimedes principle. Bioreactors and filtration systems for treating wastewater in g could avoid the need for harsh pretreatment chemicals and improve overall water recovery. Solution: Membrane Aerated Bioreactors (MABRs) for g applications, including possible use for wastewater treatment systems for the International Space Station (ISS).

Module Experiment↗

Restructuring and Optimizing Reactor Building Lifting Processes & Designing a Solution for an Overhead Door Handling Forklift Attachment

This poster presents two innovative projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety at the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) Complex. The first project focuses on restructuring the existing lift book used for hoisting operations within the ATR Reactor Building. The current lift book, a cumbersome 150+ page document, is being transformed into a more efficient format using charts that allow for quick identification of maximum lift heights based on object footprint and weight. This new method also considers various parameters such as floor integrity and reactor status, dividing entries into four distinct charts to improve usability and safety during lifts. The second project involves designing a specialized forklift attachment for handling an overhead door at the ATR Reactor Building. The attachment is engineered to securely lift and lower a 1200lb, 14ft long door, ensuring safe replacement operations. The design process included research on forklift attachment codes, modeling in Autodesk Inventor, and testing through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and hand calculations to confirm the attachment's structural integrity. Future work includes completing detailed drawings and an Engineering Calculations Analysis and Review (ECAR) document to proceed with manufacturing and assembly. Together, these projects demonstrate a commitment to optimizing reactor building operations through innovative engineering solutions and safety considerations.

42 - ENGINEERING↗

Computational Materials Techniques for Thermal Protection Solutions: Materials and Process Design

Integrated computational materials techniques that span the atomistic and continuum scales have the potential to aid the design and manufacturing of thermal protection materials. Two cases demonstrating the practical application of these methods are discussed. Case one examines the selection of a high temperature coating for carbon/carbon, with the target application being a solar thermal propulsion heat exchanger. The performance of various refractory metal and metal-carbide coatings is characterized considering extreme thermal (3500 K) and chemical (hydrogen flows) conditions. The recession rate, hydrogen leakage, and likelihood of mechanical failure are characterized and provide directions for further experimental investigation. Case two examines the process optimization of a heat shield material composed of a woven silica fiber preform and cyanate ester resin. Frequently, internal voids were found to be present in this composite after the resin infusion and curing stages of manufacturing. Using the manufacturing conditions, computations indicate that both water adsorption and resin cure shrinkage are contributing factors to void formation. The results suggest an alternative process configuration for curing that would mitigate voids.

thermal protection↗

Computational Materials Techniques for Thermal Protection Solutions: Materials and Process Design

Integrated computational materials techniques that span the atomistic and continuum scales have the potential to aid the design and manufacturing of thermal protection materials. Two cases demonstrating the practical application of these methods are discussed. Case one examines the selection of a high temperature coating for carbon/carbon, with the target application being a solar thermal propulsion heat exchanger. The performance of various refractory metal and metal-carbide coatings is characterized considering extreme thermal (3500 degrees Kelvin) and chemical (hydrogen flows) conditions. The recession rate, hydrogen leakage, and likelihood of mechanical failure are characterized and provide directions for further experimental investigation. Case two examines the process optimization of a heat shield material composed of a woven silica fiber preform and cyanate ester resin. Frequently, internal voids were found to be present in this composite after the resin infusion and curing stages of manufacturing. Using the manufacturing conditions, computations indicate that both water adsorption and resin cure shrinkage are contributing factors to void formation. The results suggest an alternative process configuration for curing that would mitigate voids.

Thermal Protection↗

Computational Materials Techniques for Thermal Protection Solutions: Materials and Process Design

Integrated computational materials techniques that span the atomistic and continuum scales have the potential to aid the design and manufacturing of thermal protection materials. Two cases demonstrating the practical application of these methods are discussed. Case one examines the selection of a high temperature coating for carbon/carbon, with the target application being a solar thermal propulsion heat exchanger. The performance of various refractory metal and metal-carbide coatings is characterized considering extreme thermal (3500 K) and chemical (hydrogen flows) conditions. The recession rate, hydrogen leakage, and likelihood of mechanical failure are characterized and provide directions for further experimental investigation. Case two examines the process optimization of a heat shield material composed of a woven silica fiber preform and cyanate ester resin. Frequently, internal voids were found to be present in this composite after the resin infusion and curing stages of manufacturing. Using the manufacturing conditions, computations indicate that both water adsorption and resin cure shrinkage are contributing factors to void formation. The results suggest an alternative process configuration for curing that would mitigate voids.

Haskins, Justin↗

October 2025 Semiannual Composite Salt Waste Processing Facility Decontaminated Salt Solution Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure Results

The aqueous waste from the Salt Waste Processing Facility is sampled semiannually for transfers to the Saltstone Disposal Facility. Salt solution is treated at the Saltstone Production Facility and disposed of in the Saltstone Disposal Facility. Per request of customer, X-TTR-Z-00027, Revision 0, one Saltstone Processing Facility Decontaminated Salt Solution and Z area premix material for the October 2025 semiannual Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure sample. The sample contained 60:40 (by weight) of slag and fly ash (referred to as the “Cement-Free grout sample”). Results from the technical report support Task 2: ‘Grout Leaching Analyses’ of the Task Technical Request prepared by Savannah River Mission Completion. At 51 days cured, the Saltstone sample was collected and shipped to a certified laboratory for analysis using the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure. The October 2025 Semiannual Cement-Free grout sample met 61 79.268.48 requirements for a non-hazardous waste form with respect to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act metals and Underlying Hazardous Constituents and met the Saltstone Production Facility Waste Acceptance Criteria that was in effect at the time of the sample collection at the Salt Waste Processing Facility.

Hsieh, Madison [Savannah River National Laboratory↗

Development and Characterization of Improved NiTiPd High-Temperature Shape-Memory Alloys by Solid-Solution Strengthening and Thermomechanical Processing

The need for compact, solid-state actuation systems for use in the aerospace, automotive, and other transportation industries is currently motivating research in high-temperature shape-memory alloys (HTSMA) with transformation temperatures greater than 100 C. One of the basic high-temperature alloys investigated to fill this need is Ni(19.5)Ti(50.5)Pd30. Initial testing has indicated that this alloy, while having acceptable work characteristics, suffers from significant permanent deformation (or ratcheting) during thermal cycling under load. In an effort to overcome this deficiency, various solid-solution alloying and thermomechanical processing schemes were investigated. Solid-solution strengthening was achieved by substituting 5at% gold or platinum for palladium in Ni(19.5)Ti(50.5)Pd30, the so-called baseline alloy, to strengthen the martensite and austenite phases against slip processes and improve thermomechanical behavior. Tensile properties, work behavior, and dimensional stability during repeated thermal cycling under load for the ternary and quaternary alloys were compared. The relative difference in yield strength between the martensite and austenite phases and the dimensional stability of the alloy were improved by the quaternary additions, while work output was only minimally impacted. The three alloys were also thermomechanically processed by cycling repeatedly through the transformation range under a constant stress. This so-called training process dramatically improved the dimensional stability in these samples and also recovered the slight decrease in work output caused by quaternary alloying. An added benefit of the solid-solution strengthening was maintenance of enhanced dimensional stability of the trained material to higher temperatures compared to the baseline alloy, providing a greater measure of over-temperature capability.

Bigelow, Glen↗