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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 325 records · Page 18

Numerical solution of viscous reacting blunt body flows of a multicomponent mixture.

Hypersonic flow of a chemically nonequilibrium multicomponent mixture past an axisymmetric blunt body is considered on the basis of the exact Navier-Stokes and chemical rate equations. The flowfield, characterized by a sharp shock and a boundary layer, is solved numerically in the region between the shock and the body. The governing equations are first formulated in generalized orthogonal coordinates, and then recast in computational coordinates in which both the shock and the body are two straight lines and one coordinate is stretched to allow higher space resolution near the body. The thermodynamic and transport properties are obtained from the most rigorous theories and reliable data for each component and for the mixture itself. A time-marching second-order finite-difference method is used to solve the equations.

Li, C. P.↗

Abundances of the elements.

An elemental abundance table along the lines used by Suess and Urey (1956) is presented. Since this early work, other studies have been made, and improvement in the abundance tables has been made as more reliable data have become available. Some changes in the original tables have been made, but the original abundances and their variations with mass numbers remain remarkably similar. The solar abundance of iron for many years appeared to be very much less relative to silicon than would be indicated by the data from the meteorites.

Urey, H. C.↗

Hypersonic flows in large-scale inlet models.

Analytical and experimental investigations were conducted to determine the characteristics of the internal flows in model passages representative of inlets for a typical Mach 12 hypersonic cruise vehicle and also sufficiently large for reliable data to be obtained. Three large-scale inlet models, each having a different internal compression ratio, were designed to provide maximum performance at the throat stations. Tests were conducted in the Mach 7.4 nozzle of the NASA Ames 3.5-foot hypersonic wind tunnel at a nominal test Reynolds number of 2,700,000 per ft. The experimental results revealed that a high level of total pressure recovery, approximately 0.85 (relative to the inlet-entrance conditions) for the core flow of the internal passage, was achieved for each inlet design.

Seebaugh, W. R.↗

Viscous flow behavior of lunar compositions 14259 and 14310.

The flow characteristics of lunar compositions 14310 and 14259 have been determined over a wide range of viscosity. The temperature ranges covered by the measurements are 1270 to 1440 C and 700 to 825 C for the 14310 composition and 1154 to 1431 C and 700 to 820 C for the 14259 composition. Reliable data could not be obtained over the intermediate ranges of temperature because of the occurrence of crystallization. The apparent activation energies for viscous flow in the high-temperature and low-temperature regions are respectively about 60 and 160 kcal/gm at for the 14310 composition and 60 and 170 kcal/gm at for the 14259 composition.

Cukierman, M.↗

Optical scattering properties of Saturn's ring.

Reliable data defining the photometric function of the Saturn ring system at visual (V) wavelengths are interpreted in terms of a simple scattering model. To facilitate the analysis, new photographic photometry of the ring has been carried out utilizing the Lowell observatory plate collection. Homogeneous measurements of the mean surface brightness (rings A and B together), covering almost the complete range in planetocentric solar declination angle, are presented. The ring model adopted is a plane-parallel slab of isotropically scattering particles; the single scattering albedo and the perpendicular optical thickness are both arbitrary. Results indicate that primary scattering is inadequate to describe the photometric properties of the ring; multiple scattering predominates for all angles of tilt with respect to the Sun and Earth.

Price, M. J.↗

Composite materials in space structures

The use of composite materials in space vehicle structures offers significant advantages in reduction of structural weight fractions and in obtaining improved dynamic characteristics. Recent studies and developments include inertial booms for scientific satellites, structural components for future space shuttle applications, and pressurized tanks. Future applications could include major portions of vehicle primary structures as well as many secondary structural components. A number of problems still exist regarding achievement of the objectives, including development of sufficient environmental data, reliable design techniques, and general user confidence. These will be attacked in future R&D programs.

Mayer, N. J.↗

Viscous flow and crystallization behavior of selected lunar compositions

The flow characteristics of lunar compositions 15555 and 68502 have been determined over a wide range of viscosity. The temperature ranges covered by the measurements are 1201-1410 and 622-695 C for the 15555 composition and 1261-1515 and 725-840 C for 68502 composition. Reliable data could not be obtained over the intermediate ranges of temperature because of the occurrence of crystallization. The experimental data in the high temperature regions are found to be in close agreement with predictions of the semiempirical model of Bottinga and Weill. The results on these compositions are compared with previous data on other lunar compositions and on anorthite; and the importance of the flow behavior in interpreting lunar flows and phase morphologies is emphasized. Data are also reported on the kinetics of crystallization of the 15555 composition over the temperature interval from 700 to 1020 C.

Cukierman, M.↗

Solar energy recorder

A serious obstacle to the large-scale terrestrial application of solar energy lies in the scarcity of reliable data on the amount of solar energy at candidate converter sites. This paper describes a system designed to monitor and record, automatically, the values of the direct and total (sun and sky) solar radiation which would be seen by either tracking or fixed-type solar converters. A further pressing need addressed by the system is the means for efficiency testing and evaluation of solar cells, solar collectors and solar concentrator systems, under outdoor exposure to natural sunlight and weather conditions for extended periods. The design was accomplished in support of the Marshall Space Flight Center, NASA, where design concepts and materials for large-scale terrestrial solar energy converters are currently being evaluated.

Lollar, R. B.↗

Preliminary assessment of systems for deriving liquid and gaseous fuels from waste or grown organics

The overall feasibility of the chemical conversion of waste or grown organic matter to fuel is examined from the technical, economic, and social viewpoints. The energy contribution from a system that uses waste and grown organic feedstocks is estimated as 4 to 12 percent of our current energy consumption. Estimates of today's market prices for these fuels are included. Economic and social issues are as important as technology in determining the feasibility of such a proposal. An orderly program of development and demonstration is recommended to provide reliable data for an assessment of the viability of the proposal.

Graham, R. W.↗

Cardiovascular studies using the chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

Despite the phylogenetic similarities between chimpanzees and man, there exists a paucity of reliable data on normal cardiovascular function and the physiological responses of the system to standard interventions. Totally implanted biotelemetry systems or hardwire analog techniques were used to examine the maximum number of cardiovascular variables which could be simultaneously monitored without significantly altering the system's performance. This was performed in order to acquire base-line data not previously obtained in this species, to determine cardiovascular response to specific forcing functions such as ventricular pacing, drug infusions, and lower body negative pressure. A cardiovascular function profile protocol was developed in order to adjust independently the three major factors which modify ventricular performance, namely, left ventricular performance, left ventricular preload, afterload, and contractility. Cardiac pacing at three levels above the ambient rate was used to adjust end diastolic volume (preload). Three concentrations of angiotensin were infused continuously to evaluate afterload in a stepwide fashion. A continuous infusion of dobutamine was administered to raise the manifest contractile state of the heart.

Hinds, J. E.↗

Eutrophication in the Chesapeake Bay

The advantages and limitations of using remote sensing to acquire fast reliable data on the nutrient problem in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem are discussed. Pollution effects to phytoplankton blooms during late summer and early fall months are also considered.

Ulanowicz, R. E.↗

Helicopter cabin noise: Methods of source and path identification and characterization

Internal noise sources in a helicopter are considered. These include propulsion machinery, comprising engine and transmission, and turbulent boundary layer effects. It is shown that by using relatively simple concepts together with careful experimental work it is possible to generate reliable data on which to base the design of high performance noise control treatments.

Murray, B. S.↗

On the tones and pressure oscillations induced by flow over rectangular cavities

Experimental measurements of the frequencies of discrete tones induced by flow over rectangular cavities were carried out over a range of low subsonic Mach numbers to provide a reliable data base for (aircraft wheel well) cavity noise consideration. A mathematical model of the cavity tones and pressure oscillation phenomenon based on the coupling between shear layer instabilities and acoustic feedback is developed to help in understanding the tone generation mechanism. Good agreement is found between discrete tone frequencies predicted by the model and experimental measurements over a wide range of Mach numbers. Evidence of tones generated by the cavity normal mode resonance mechanism at very low subsonic Mach numbers is also presented.

Tam, C. K. W.↗

Seismic structure of the lunar mantle - An overview

The direct P and S wave arrival times from natural lunar seismic events are the most complete and reliable data set for determining the structure of the lunar mantle. A total of 40 events provide sufficiently well-observed arrivals to permit the extraction of structural information. Using this arrival time data set, the average velocities in a two-layered mantle with an assumed crustal structure (from Toksoz et al., 1974) have been obtained. Reflected phases arriving after direct S are then used to calculate the depth of the boundary between the two mantle layers, and to demonstrate that it is probably a complex transition zone approximately 80 km thick between 400 and 480 km depth. To determine velocity gradients in the upper mantle it is required that the model explain the pronounced decrease in shear wave amplitudes and accompanying delay in shear wave arrival times beyond a distance of about 90 deg. The final model is well-constrained.

Goins, N. R.↗

Advanced oxygen-hydrocarbon rocket engine study

Preliminary identification and evaluation of promising liquid oxygen/ hydrocarbon (LO2/HC) rocket engine cycles is reported. A consistent and reliable data base for vehicle optimization and design studies, to demonstrate the significance of propulsion system improvements, and to select the critical technology areas necessary to realize such advances is presented.

Obrien, C. J.↗

Optical-communication systems for deep-space applications

The feasibility of using optical communication systems for data telemetry from deep space vehicles to Earth based receivers is evaluated. Performance analysis shows that practical, photon counting optical systems can transmit data reliably at 30 to 40 dB high rates than existing RF systems, or can be used to extend the communication range by 15 to 20 dB. The advantages of pulse-position modulation (PPM) formats are discussed, and photon counting receiver structures designed for PPM decoding are described. The effects of background interference and weather on receiver performance are evaluated. Some consideration is given to tracking and beam pointing operations, since system performance ultimately depends on the accuracy to which these operations can be carried out. An example of a tracking and pointing system utilizing an optical uplink beacon is presented, and it is shown that microradian beam pointing is within the capabilities of state-of-the-art technology. Recommendations for future theoretical studies and component development programs are presented.

Vilnrotter, V. A.↗

Advanced oxygen-hydrocarbon rocket engine study

This study identifies and evaluates promising LO2/HC rocket engine cycles, produces a consistent and reliable data base for vehicle optimization and design studies, demonstrates the significance of propulsion system improvements, and selects the critical technology areas necessary to realize an improved surface to orbit transportation system. Parametric LO2/HC engine data were generated over a range of thrust levels from 890 to 6672 kN (200K to 1.5M 1bF) and chamber pressures from 6890 to 34500 kN (1000 to 5000 psia). Engine coolants included RP-1, refined RP-1, LCH4, LC3H8, LO2, and LH2. LO2/RP-1 G.G. cycles were found to be not acceptable for advanced engines. The highest performing LO2/RP-1 staged combustion engine cycle utilizes LO2 as the coolant and incorporates an oxidizer rich preburner. The highest performing cycle for LO2/LCH4 and LO2/LC3H8 utilizes fuel cooling and incorporates both fuel and oxidizer rich preburners. LO2/HC engine cycles permitting the use of a third fluid LH2 coolant and an LH2 rich gas generator provide higher performance at significantly lower pump discharge pressures. The LO2/HC dual throat engine, because of its high altitude performance, delivers the highest payload for the vehicle configuration that was investigated.

Obrien, C. J.↗

Advanced oxygen-hydrocarbon rocket engine study

Preliminary identification and evaluation of promising LO2/Hydrocarbon rocket engine cycles were used to produce a consistent and reliable data base for vehicle optimization and design studies. cycles G and C were chosen for design analysis. Preliminary design analysis of the heat transfer subsystem was performed to establish major technology requirements.

Obrien, C. J.↗