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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 289 records · Page 16
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

High-entropy materials: fundamentals and applications

Metallic high-entropy materials (HEMs), also known as high-entropy alloys (HEAs), are an exotic class of materials that possess desirable properties, such as exceptional strength and ductility, high wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Due to these positive attributes, HEAs have been proposed for use in the automotive and aerospace industries, nuclear reactor technology, and the biomedical field. In terms of composition, HEAs contain five or more elements in amounts ranging from 5 to 35 atomic percent (at.%) each, resulting in a vast compositional space that is still mainly unexplored to this day. More recently, the field of HEMs has broadened to include materials such as polymers and ceramics.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2021

Ultrathin epitaxial NbN superconducting films with high upper critical field grown at low temperature

Ultrathin (5–50 nm) epitaxial superconducting niobium nitride (NbN) films were grown on AlN-buffered c-plane Al 2 O 3 by an industrial scale physical vapor deposition technique at 400°C. Both X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis show high crystallinity of the (111)-oriented NbN films, with a narrow full-width-at-half-maximum of the rocking curve down to 0.030°. The lattice constant decreases with decreasing NbN layer thickness, suggesting lattice strain for films with thicknesses below 20 nm. The superconducting transition temperature, the transition width, the upper critical field, the irreversibility line, and the coherence length are closely correlated to the film thickness. This work realized high quality ultrathin epitaxial NbN films by an industry-scale PVD technology at low substrate temperature, which opens up new opportunities for quantum devices.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2023

Modeling Autonomous Vehicle-Targeted Aggressive Merging Behaviors in Mixed Traffic Environment

Promising advances in Autonomous Vehicle (AV) technology have fueled industry and research fields to dedicate significant effort to the study of the integration of AVs into the traffic network. This study focuses on the transition phase between all Human Driven Vehicles (HDVs) in the network to all AVs, where these different vehicle types coexist in a mixed traffic environment. This paper investigates the potential impacts of aggressive merging behaviors by human drivers on traffic performance in a mixed environment. For this, three vehicle types – AVs, HDVs, and Aggressive HDVs (AHDVs) – are modeled in an open-source microscopic traffic simulation model, SUMO. In the developed simulation, the AHDVs are modeled to emulate aggressive merging behaviors in front of AVs at a merge section of a freeway exit ramp. Several experiments are used to study the impact of such behavior. Results show travel time gains by AHDVs at the expense of AVs and HDVs.

Bae, JongIn↗
DOE OSTI2023

Use of Convolutional Neural Network Image Classification and High-Speed Ion Probe Data Toward Real-Time Detonation Characterization in a Water-Cooled Rotating Detonation Engine

As rotating detonation engines (RDEs) progress in maturity, the importance of monitoring advancements toward development of active control becomes more critical. Experimental RDE data processing at time scales which satisfy real-time diagnostics will likely require the use of machine learning. This study aims to develop and deploy a novel real-time monitoring technique capable of determining detonation wave number, direction, frequency, and individual wave speeds throughout experimental RDE operational windows. To do so, the diagnostic integrates image classification by a convolutional neural network (CNN) and ionization current signal analysis. Wave mode identification through single-image CNN classification bypasses the need to evaluate sequential images and offers instantaneous identification of the wave mode present in the RDE annulus. Here, real-time processing speeds are achieved due to low data volumes required by the methodology, namely one short-exposure image and a short window of sensor data to generate each diagnostic output. The diagnostic acquires live data using a modified experimental setup alongside Pylon and PyDAQmx libraries within a python data acquisition environment. Lab-deployed diagnostic results are presented across varying wave modes, operating conditions, and data quality, currently executed at 3–4 Hz with a variety of iteration speed optimization options to be considered as future work. These speeds exceed that of conventional techniques and offer a proven structure for real-time RDE monitoring. The demonstrated ability to analyze detonation wave presence and behavior during RDE operation will certainly play a vital role in the development of RDE active control, necessary for RDE technology maturation toward industrial integration.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2026

Efficient continuous-wave normal conducting accelerator for industrial applications

A normal conducting, high power, high efficiency copper linear accelerator prototype is being developed for industrial applications. The system will be powered by low-cost high-efficiency magnetron RF sources and will use a gridded thermionic cathode electron gun. Leveraging the significant accelerator expertise at JLab and industry partners, these technologies will be combined to deliver high-power (>100 kW) electron beams with energies of 1 MeV or higher that are cost-effective to produce and operate. The design is modular such that energy and power can be increased by adding additional sections as required. The status of the design, prototype fabrication and plans for a beam demonstration at JLab are described.

Accelerator Physics↗
DOE OSTI2020

Evaluation of Power Fluidic Pumping Technology for Molten Salt Reactor Applications

Power Fluidics™ (PF) is a NuVision Engineering proprietary technology which uses gases to control the flow of other fluids in industrial applications. This unique technology has several advantages over traditional centrifugal pumps. Molten salt nuclear reactors and associated systems have unique fluid handling demands. This report explores the applicability of PF to molten salt systems. Several potential applications are identified, necessary modifications of existing PF technology for salt service are discussed, and a path for development and demonstration is proposed.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗
DOE OSTI2021

DOE Deep Energy Retrofit Cost Survey

A survey was conducted by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory on deep energy retrofit (DER) market drivers, opportunities, and challenges. The survey was part a research study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy to gather information on the costs of DER from home performance contractors and stakeholders. Cost data was gathered from DER projects that use a comprehensive, whole-home approach to drastically reduce energy use and improve performance. DER projects often aim at reducing energy use by 50% or more. In addition, these projects can improve home comfort and potentially benefiting occupant health. Yet, market adoption of DER has been limited. Major limiting factors include complex projects, high costs, perceived risks, extensive disruption, and unfamiliar work scopes to some contractors. In order to better understand what motivates and deters DER projects in today’s market, a survey was conducted to gather this information, and to learn about promising approaches and technologies from the industry perspective. Past surveys on homeowners and home energy performance professionals have studied the motivations and barriers of energy efficiency retrofits. Two surveys of home energy performance professionals were conducted in recent years. The Resources for the Future (RFF) Home Energy Audit and Retrofit Survey was conducted in 2011 by recruiting energy auditors and retrofit installers through members of Efficiency First and Building Performance Institute (BPI) accredited contractors. The survey asked about the business and services that respondents provide, how often homeowners follow their recommendations to retrofit their homes, and the respondents’ opinion on barriers faced by the industry. The survey found that not enough homeowners know about energy audits, but more importantly, it is the high cost of retrofits compared to low energy prices that is responsible for few energy audits and retrofits being completed. The RESNET Deep Retrofit Industry Stakeholder Survey was conducted shortly after launching of the EnergySmart Home Performance Team program. The EnergySmart Team program involves a formal agreement among allied contractors who are engaged in high performance retrofits. Using this allied team approach, teams can pool their expertise and provide each other with customer referrals. The survey asked EnergySmart Team members and outside stakeholders on questions about market and technical barriers in performing home energy retrofits. Survey respondents identified lack of consumer awareness and lack of affordable financing for consumers as the leading market barriers to home energy retrofits. In their written comments, many survey respondents also echoed that the high costs of retrofit compared to low energy prices is a market barrier. Respondents found “certain housing characteristics that prevent effective retrofit” and “energy analysis software inaccuracy or limitations” are the two leading technical barriers. Their choices for technical barriers were reflective of the energy rater/auditor role played by the majority (78%) of the survey respondents. In comparison to past surveys, this work aimed to gather inputs from a broader segment of the home performance industry to identify the opportunities and barriers faced by DERs from all perspectives. The survey asks for project costs to help breakdown the high costs of DERs. This survey is also motivated by a need to better understand the role of DERs in reducing energy use by the residential sectors and meeting climate goals. The survey is designed towards obtaining more substantive inputs from survey respondents by encouraging written comments, rather than setting the goal to reach a large number of respondents. We took this approach because DER is currently still a niche market, so it is more valuable to gather in-depth inputs from individuals who are performing this work rather than getting to the masses.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2021

Advanced Physics-Based Fluid System Performance Monitoring to Support Nuclear Power Plant Operations. Final CRADA report

This project targeted performance monitoring requirements for nuclear power plants with the goal of improving plant economics. We introduced a new and innovative technology to the industry that can reduce operations staffing levels by automating surveillance and can reduce maintenance staffing levels by providing early detection of degrading equipment. A beta-stage release of the PRO-AID power plant equipment fault diagnostic software ready for deployment in nuclear power plants will be delivered and demonstrated in a utility pilot project. To provide for efficient use of DOE funds the aim is to generate a minimum viable product for which we can prove the value of the product. The end state product will be serviceable for use in either a simulator environment or plant environment. The former provides a means for demonstration of the diagnostic capability for faults unlikely to be encountered in day-to-day operations.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗
DOE OSTI2021

Smart Monitoring and Diagnostic System (SMDS) for Packaged Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps for Small/Medium Commercial Buildings: Preparation for Commercialization: CRADA 478 [Abstract only]

This project will enable Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and industry partner, mCloud Technologies, to work collaboratively to ready the Smart Monitoring and Diagnostic System (SMDS) for commercial deployment and validate its performance under real-world conditions at field sites. This project will specifically focus on 1) implementing the SMDS algorithms in a scalable cloud-based software architecture, 2) designing new, innovative, complimentary commercial services based on the SMDS, 3) enhancing the SMDS energy and cost impact algorithms to reduce uncertainty in estimates, 4) determining the lower limits on SMDS performance degradation detection, 5) validating algorithm performance and default values of adjustable thresholds with existing data from controlled physical testing and from customer packaged air conditioners and heat pumps (commonly referred to as rooftop units or RTUs), 6) field testing to validate the system on multiple customer buildings in diverse environments, and 7) expanding field deployment to a larger set of mCloud’s customer buildings. Project results by validating, enhancing, and quantifying the performance of the SMDS will position mCloud, and potential future licensees, to implement the SMDS in commercial offerings that encourage and enable use of condition-based and predictive maintenance, leading to significant reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions associated with space conditioning by RTUs. Furthermore, these enhancements will increase the value of the SMDS for users and increase the potential market for its use and impacts.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2023

Report on the 4th Marine Energy Instrumentation and Data Workshop

The 4th Marine Energy Instrumentation and Data workshop was held on March 16 - 17 2022. This gathering brought together marine energy (ME) developers, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss the current state of ME technologies and the industry's instrument and data needs. The overall objective of the workshop was to identify gaps facing the ME industry for needed data collection, processing, and analysis. This report contains findings and recommendations derived from the discussions and presentations during the workshop.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗
DOE OSTI2023

Advanced Building Construction (ABC) Research Opportunities Report: Industrializing Construction to Decarbonize Buildings

The U.S. building stock is responsible for 75% of total U.S. electricity use, 40% of energy use, and 35% of CO 2 emissions. To meet bold national climate change goals, the U.S. must decarbonize the building stock by 2050. However, today’s practices to build or renovate buildings to low-carbon, high-performance levels are generally labor intensive, disruptive, and too costly to quickly scale in the U.S. To retrofit 80% of the U.S. building stock in the U.S. by 2050, the retrofit rate will need to increase by about 15 times for residential buildings and two times for commercial buildings. Additionally, there is a major housing deficit in this country where nearly 600,000 people lack adequate or stable shelter, and the pace of construction is not keeping up with the growing demand. New, more industrialized, replicable, and technologically driven approaches to renovation and new building construction are imperative to help meet such significant national needs and achieve the necessary speed and scale to meet national building decarbonization goals.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2023

A Case Study of Luminaire-Level Lighting Control: Lighting the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) Office in Portland, OR

What happens when advanced lighting and control systems are installed in the real world? Are the advantages and energy savings realized? By observing the design, installation, commissioning, and ongoing use of connected lighting systems in real-world settings, it is possible to identify the strengths, challenges, and points of human-technology interaction that may be new or unfamiliar to those responsible for implementing or maintaining the lighting system. Ultimately, understanding and experiencing each stakeholder’s interaction with the technology can allow the research team to synthesize feedback for manufacturers, improve industry understanding of the technology, and increase adoption. The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) office in Portland, OR, is a single-floor installation that puts tunable-white, interoperability, and luminaire-level advanced control capabilities to the test. Compared to simpler, “out-of-the-box” systems that minimize field-adjustable settings, the system utilized in this space allowed for granular field adjustments which required the system specifier, client, and programming agent to make additional decisions regarding system operation while the system was being programmed. This report communicates the observational findings from the installation, programming, and ongoing operation of an advanced office LLLC system.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2024

Heliostat Consortium Annual Report: 2024

In 2021, the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) funded the formation of the Heliostat Consortium (HelioCon), a five-year consortium designed to advance U.S. heliostat technologies by engaging industry, subject matter experts, and general stakeholders for direct project-level collaboration, external consulting, and mission-specific panels and workshops. HelioCon is led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Sandia National Laboratories, in partnership with the Australian Solar Thermal Research Institute. This report describes HelioCon's activities and impact in fiscal year 2024.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2024

Evolve CAPP Final Report

The Evolve Central Appalachia (Evolve CAPP) project is investigating the rare earth and critical mineral resource potential of the Central Appalachian basin, spanning Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. This initiative aims to advance clean energy technologies, strengthen sustainable industries critical to national security, and foster economic growth through downstream value-added industries. Innovative policy incentives, stakeholder collaboration, and responsible sourcing practices are identified as pivotal to overcoming barriers. The project seeks to align environmental stewardship with economic imperatives. These efforts aim to position the Central Appalachian region as a leader in responsible critical mineral sourcing, contributing to a resilient, secure, and future-ready supply chain for critical minerals.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗
DOE OSTI2025

Catalyst Development to Overcome Barriers for Commercialization of Synthetic High-Octane Hydrocarbons: Cooperative Research and Development (Final Report)

In recent years, researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the University of California Berkeley (UC Berkeley) have independently developed catalysts that convert methanol and dimethyl ether into alkylate-like hydrocarbons with a high-octane value, and both have developed intellectual property around these chemical transformations. Both UC Berkeley and NREL wish to see their technologies commercialized to address a number of domestic and international energy challenges. The technologies developed by NREL and UC Berkeley are complimentary but neither have moved beyond the laboratory scale due to remaining challenges with the catalyst activity and selectivity, and/or with the reaction engineering associated with maximizing the yield of the high-value product. NREL and UC Berkeley wish to collaboratively through a shared resources CRADA to solve issues related to the scale-up and process integration of their high-octane hydrocarbon technologies, thus enabling future licensing of the technology to an industry partner.

10 SYNTHETIC FUELS↗
DOE OSTI2026

Regulatory and Technical Challenges and Barriers to Adoption of Distributed Wind Energy in Agricultural Settings

Distributed wind (DW) energy development can benefit agricultural landowners through the possibility of improved resilience of electrical service from onsite generation and associated economic benefits. DW development currently faces technical and regulatory challenges related to interconnection of projects with distribution or transmission equipment on the main electrical grid. A review was conducted of barriers to adoption for agricultural DW projects and potential roles of various stakeholders in addressing them. One major barrier is that the unique characteristics of wind energy generation such as its variability and intermittency, may require upgrades for the whole power line, which can lead to prohibitive cost burdens on individual interconnection customers. Another barrier is compliance with federal, state, or utility-level regulations that require technology-agnostic, industry-standard equipment that is often not technically realistic for DW projects. DW developers, grid infrastructure owner-operators, regulators, and standards publishers can work together to address these challenges and facilitate DW development.

17 WIND ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2026

Building Nuclear-Specific Cybersecurity Expertise in Higher Education

The rapid digitalization of nuclear power plants (NPPs) and the deployment of advanced and small modular reactors (A/SMRs) have expanded the cybersecurity attack surface within the nuclear sector. This evolution introduces unique challenges beyond those faced in general information technology (IT), operational technology (OT) and industrial control system (ICS) security, due to nuclear power’s regulatory rigor, safety-critical nature, and operational needs. A pressing workforce gap persists; cybersecurity graduates typically lack nuclear-specific context and retraining them for industry readiness requires 12–18 months, creating a significant burden. This paper addresses this gap by defining the domains of knowledge that nuclear cybersecurity specialists must master, spanning cybersecurity, nuclear engineering, OT/ICS security, and regulatory governance. We propose a curricular framework integrating technical, regulatory, and applied learning components to accelerate workforce readiness. Our approach builds on existing findings that current curricula inadequately integrate nuclear engineering and cybersecurity, shifting the discourse from why specialization is needed to what knowledge must be taught. The recommendations have implications for workforce development and long-term resilience of the nuclear energy sector.

99 - GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗
DOE OSTI2021

Monitoring Based Commissioning: Step-by-Step Approach to Implementation in Chiller Plants

Chilled water systems consume a significant portion of the energy in manufacturing, and inefficient operation could significantly influence utility bills and the environmental footprint of a facility. One way to ensure long-term energy-efficient plant operation is to ensure that chilled water system equipment, such as chillers, cooling towers, and pumps, are running at their best. Periodic operational assessments help to meet efficiency objectives for cooling plants. However, occasional set point and operational changes resulting from short-term fluctuations cause the plant operation to deviate from optimal. These changes accumulate over time, and operational efficiency deteriorates. Significant energy efficiency improvement potential in chilled water systems can be achieved by operational changes alone. Recent developments in information technology and the industrial internet of things data processing ability have overcome traditional problems and given rise to a new paradigm: monitoring-based commissioning (MBCx). Commissioning platforms and fault detection and diagnostics capabilities have evolved over time and presented more sophisticated abilities to efficiently control process cooling plants. The typical architectures of the MBCx process and a detailed approach to implement the process for chilled water systems are presented. A case study highlighting the energy-and cost-savings potential of MBCx systems is also presented.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗