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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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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1999

Multimodal Preception and Multicriterion Control of Nested Systems: A Functional Visual Assessment Test for Human Health Maintenance and Countermeasure Evaluation - 3

Our theoretical and empirical research on the whole-body coordination during locomotion led to a Phase 1 SBIR grant from NASA JSC. The purpose of the SBIR grant was to design an innovative system for evaluating eye-head-trunk coordination during whole-body perturbations that are characteristic of locomotion. The approach we used to satisfy the Phase 1 objectives was based on a structured methodology for the development of human-systems technology. Accordingly the project was broken down into a number of tasks and subtasks. In sequence, the major tasks were: (1) identify needs for functional assessment of visual acuity under conditions involving whole-body perturbation within the NASA Space Medical Monitoring and Countermeasures (SMMaC) program and in other related markets; (2) analyze the needs into the causes and symptoms of impaired visual acuity under conditions involving whole-body perturbation; (3) translate the analyzed needs into technology requirements for the Functional Visual Assessment Test (FVAT); (4) identify candidate technology solutions and implementations of FVAT; and (5) prioritize and select technology solutions. The work conducted in these tasks is described in this final volume of the series on Multimodal Perception and Multicriterion Control of Nested Systems. While prior volumes (1 and 2) in the series focus on theoretical foundations and novel data-analytic techniques, this volume addresses technology that is necessary for minimally intrusive data collection and near-real-time data analysis and display.

Riccio, Gary E.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Probabilistic structural mechanics research for parallel processing computers

Aerospace structures and spacecraft are a complex assemblage of structural components that are subjected to a variety of complex, cyclic, and transient loading conditions. Significant modeling uncertainties are present in these structures, in addition to the inherent randomness of material properties and loads. To properly account for these uncertainties in evaluating and assessing the reliability of these components and structures, probabilistic structural mechanics (PSM) procedures must be used. Much research has focused on basic theory development and the development of approximate analytic solution methods in random vibrations and structural reliability. Practical application of PSM methods was hampered by their computationally intense nature. Solution of PSM problems requires repeated analyses of structures that are often large, and exhibit nonlinear and/or dynamic response behavior. These methods are all inherently parallel and ideally suited to implementation on parallel processing computers. New hardware architectures and innovative control software and solution methodologies are needed to make solution of large scale PSM problems practical.

Sues, Robert H.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Systematic Image Based Optical Alignment and Tensegrity

This presentation will review the objectives and current status of two Small Business Innovative Research being performed by the Sirius Group, under the direction of MSFC. They all relate to the development of advanced optical systems technologies for automated segmented mirror alignment techniques and fundamental design methodologies for ultralight structures. These are important to future astronomical missions in space.

Zeiders, Glenn W.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Roadmap on data-centric materials science

Science is and always has been based on data, but the terms ‘data-centric’ and the ‘4th paradigm’ of materials research indicate a radical change in how information is retrieved, handled and research is performed. It signifies a transformative shift towards managing vast data collections, digital repositories, and innovative data analytics methods. The integration of artificial intelligence and its subset machine learning, has become pivotal in addressing all these challenges. This Roadmap on Data-Centric Materials Science explores fundamental concepts and methodologies, illustrating diverse applications in electronic-structure theory, soft matter theory, microstructure research, and experimental techniques like photoemission, atom probe tomography, and electron microscopy. While the roadmap delves into specific areas within the broad interdisciplinary field of materials science, the provided examples elucidate key concepts applicable to a wider range of topics. The discussed instances offer insights into addressing the multifaceted challenges encountered in contemporary materials research.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2024

A goldilocks computational protocol for inhibitor discovery targeting DNA damage responses including replication-repair functions

While many researchers can design knockdown and knockout methodologies to remove a gene product, this is mainly untrue for new chemical inhibitor designs that empower multifunctional DNA Damage Response (DDR) networks. Here, we present a robust Goldilocks (GL) computational discovery protocol to efficiently innovate inhibitor tools and preclinical drug candidates for cellular and structural biologists without requiring extensive virtual screen (VS) and chemical synthesis expertise. By computationally targeting DDR replication and repair proteins, we exemplify the identification of DDR target sites and compounds to probe cancer biology. Our GL pipeline integrates experimental and predicted structures to efficiently discover leads, allowing early-structure and early-testing (ESET) experiments by many laboratories. By employing an efficient VS protocol to examine protein-protein interfaces (PPIs) and allosteric interactions, we identify ligand binding sites beyond active sites, leveraging in silico advances for molecular docking and modeling to screen PPIs and multiple targets. A diverse 3,174 compound ESET library combines Diamond Light Source DSI-poised, Protein Data Bank fragments, and FDA-approved drugs to span relevant chemotypes and facilitate downstream hit evaluation efficiency for academic laboratories. Two VS per library and multiple ranked ligand binding poses enable target testing for several DDR targets. This GL library and protocol can thus strategically probe multiple DDR network targets and identify readily available compounds for early structural and activity testing to overcome bottlenecks that can limit timely breakthrough drug discoveries. By testing accessible compounds to dissect multi-functional DDRs and suggesting inhibitor mechanisms from initial docking, the GL approach may enable more groups to help accelerate discovery, suggest new sites and compounds for challenging targets including emerging biothreats and advance cancer biology for future precision medicine clinical trials.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS2010

A Framework for Integrated Component and System Analyses of Instabilities

Instabilities associated with fluid handling and operation in liquid rocket propulsion systems and test facilities usually manifest themselves as structural vibrations or some form of structural damage. While the source of the instability is directly related to the performance of a component such as a turbopump, valve or a flow control element, the associated pressure fluctuations as they propagate through the system have the potential to amplify and resonate with natural modes of the structural elements and components of the system. In this paper, the authors have developed an innovative multi-level approach that involves analysis at the component and systems level. The primary source of the unsteadiness is modeled with a high-fidelity hybrid RANS/LES based CFD methodology that has been previously used to study instabilities in feed systems. This high fidelity approach is used to quantify the instability and understand the physics associated with the instability. System response to the driving instability is determined through a transfer matrix approach wherein the incoming and outgoing pressure and velocity fluctuations are related through a transfer (or transmission) matrix. The coefficients of the transfer matrix for each component (i.e. valve, pipe, orifice etc.) are individually derived from the flow physics associated with the component. A demonstration case representing a test loop/test facility comprised of a network of elements is constructed with the transfer matrix approach and the amplification of modes analyzed as the instability propagates through the test loop.

Ahuja, Vineet↗
NASA NTRS2003

Process-Based Cost Estimation for Ramjet/Scramjet Engines

Process-based cost estimation plays a key role in effecting cultural change that integrates distributed science, technology and engineering teams to rapidly create innovative and affordable products. Working together, NASA Glenn Research Center and Boeing Canoga Park have developed a methodology of process-based cost estimation bridging the methodologies of high-level parametric models and detailed bottoms-up estimation. The NASA GRC/Boeing CP process-based cost model provides a probabilistic structure of layered cost drivers. High-level inputs characterize mission requirements, system performance, and relevant economic factors. Design alternatives are extracted from a standard, product-specific work breakdown structure to pre-load lower-level cost driver inputs and generate the cost-risk analysis. As product design progresses and matures the lower level more detailed cost drivers can be re-accessed and the projected variation of input values narrowed, thereby generating a progressively more accurate estimate of cost-risk. Incorporated into the process-based cost model are techniques for decision analysis, specifically, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and functional utility analysis. Design alternatives may then be evaluated not just on cost-risk, but also user defined performance and schedule criteria. This implementation of full-trade study support contributes significantly to the realization of the integrated development environment. The process-based cost estimation model generates development and manufacturing cost estimates. The development team plans to expand the manufacturing process base from approximately 80 manufacturing processes to over 250 processes. Operation and support cost modeling is also envisioned. Process-based estimation considers the materials, resources, and processes in establishing cost-risk and rather depending on weight as an input, actually estimates weight along with cost and schedule.

Singh, Brijendra↗
DOE OSTI2024

Low-cost sensor-based damage localization for large-area monitoring of FRP composites

Abstract In recent years, there has been growing interest in self-sensing structural materials across research and industry sectors. Detecting and locating structural damage typically requires numerous sensors wired to a data acquisition (DAQ) circuit, rendering implementation impractical in real structures. This paper proposes an innovative, cost-effective sensor network for damage detection and localization in fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The innovation encompasses three key elements: (1) utilizing carbon fiber tows within the composite as piezoresistive sensors, eliminating the need for additional foreign sensor devices; (2) introducing a novel sensor layout wherein sensor tow branches with varied resistance values are connected in parallel, reducing the number of connections to the DAQ circuit and cutting manufacturing costs significantly; (3) developing a practical sensor terminal fabrication technique to minimize manufacturing expenses. The proposed design methodology for the branch resistance values is first validated using a demonstration panel. Subsequently, the overall strategy is assessed by conducting impact tests on carbon and glass fiber-reinforced composite specimens. Results validate the sensor’s ability to accurately detect and locate structural damage.

Demo, Luke B. (ORCID:0000000208806522)↗
DOE OSTI2025

The developments in modifying functionality of lignin and its application in biocomposites

With the advancement of sustainable material innovations, renewable natural biopolymers are gradually replacing traditional metal and petroleum-based synthetic materials due to their environmental friendliness, biodegradability, and economic advantages. Lignin, the second most abundant natural aromatic polymer in the plant kingdom, has emerged as a key candidate raw material for the development of green polymer systems because of its unique phenylpropane unit network structure, high carbon content, and rich functional group characteristics. However, challenges such as the inherent structural complexity, chemical inertness, and uneven molecular weight distribution of lignin limit its direct application. By employing modification strategies such as chemical functionalization and physical regulation, researchers can precisely control its reactivity, thermal stability, and interfacial compatibility, enabling the preparation of high-performance lignin-based functional composites. Here, this paper systematically reviews the principles and methodological advancements in lignin's multi-dimensional modification technology. It analyzes the mechanisms by which various chemical and physical modification techniques enhance the mechanical properties, functional responsiveness, and environmental adaptability of materials, and discusses innovative applications in fields such as intelligent packaging, biomedical materials, and energy storage devices. Furthermore, this review addresses the key challenges encountered in the high-value transformation of lignin, with the aim of offering a theoretical framework and technical pathway for the transformative development of lignin from agricultural and forestry by-products to functional material platforms.

Functional composites↗
NASA NTRS1989

Minimal complexity control law synthesis

A paradigm for control law design for modern engineering systems is proposed: Minimize control law complexity subject to the achievement of a specified accuracy in the face of a specified level of uncertainty. Correspondingly, the overall goal is to make progress towards the development of a control law design methodology which supports this paradigm. Researchers achieve this goal by developing a general theory of optimal constrained-structure dynamic output feedback compensation, where here constrained-structure means that the dynamic-structure (e.g., dynamic order, pole locations, zero locations, etc.) of the output feedback compensation is constrained in some way. By applying this theory in an innovative fashion, where here the indicated iteration occurs over the choice of the compensator dynamic-structure, the paradigm stated above can, in principle, be realized. The optimal constrained-structure dynamic output feedback problem is formulated in general terms. An elegant method for reducing optimal constrained-structure dynamic output feedback problems to optimal static output feedback problems is then developed. This reduction procedure makes use of star products, linear fractional transformations, and linear fractional decompositions, and yields as a byproduct a complete characterization of the class of optimal constrained-structure dynamic output feedback problems which can be reduced to optimal static output feedback problems. Issues such as operational/physical constraints, operating-point variations, and processor throughput/memory limitations are considered, and it is shown how anti-windup/bumpless transfer, gain-scheduling, and digital processor implementation can be facilitated by constraining the controller dynamic-structure in an appropriate fashion.

Bernstein, Dennis S.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Life-Extending Control for Aircraft Engines Studied

Current aircraft engine controllers are designed and operated to provide both performance and stability margins. However, the standard method of operation results in significant wear and tear on the engine and negatively affects the on-wing life--the time between cycles when the engine must be physically removed from the aircraft for maintenance. The NASA Glenn Research Center and its industrial and academic partners have been working together toward a new control concept that will include engine life usage as part of the control function. The resulting controller will be able to significantly extend the engine's on-wing life with little or no impact on engine performance and operability. The new controller design will utilize damage models to estimate and mitigate the rate and overall accumulation of damage to critical engine parts. The control methods will also provide a means to assess tradeoffs between performance and structural durability on the basis of mission requirements and remaining engine life. Two life-extending control methodologies were studied to reduce the overall life-cycle cost of aircraft engines. The first methodology is to modify the baseline control logic to reduce the thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) damage of cooled stators during acceleration. To accomplish this, an innovative algorithm limits the low-speed rotor acceleration command when the engine has reached a threshold close to the requested thrust. This algorithm allows a significant reduction in TMF damage with only a very small increase in the rise time to reach the commanded rotor speed. The second methodology is to reduce stress rupture/creep damage to turbine blades and uncooled stators by incorporating an engine damage model into the flight mission. Overall operation cost is reduced by an optimization among the flight time, fuel consumption, and component damages. Recent efforts have focused on applying life-extending control technology to an existing commercial turbine engine, and doing so without modifying the hardware or adding sensors. This approach makes it possible to retrofit existing engines with life-extending control technology by changing only the control software in the full-authority digital engine controller (FADEC). The significant results include demonstrating a 20- to 30-percent reduction in TMF damage to the hot section by developing and implementing smart acceleration logic during takeoff. The tradeoff is an increase, from 5.0 to 5.2 sec, in the time required to reach maximum power from ground idle. On a typical flight profile of a cruise at Mach 0.8 at an altitude of 41,000 ft, and cruise time of 104 min, the optimized system showed that a reduction in cruise speed from Mach 0.8 to 0.79 can achieve an estimated 25-to 35-percent creep/rupture damage reduction in the engine's hot section and a fuel savings of 2.1 percent. The tradeoff is an increase in flight time of 1.3 percent (1.4 min).

Guo, Te-Huei↗
DOE OSTI2025

Advances in relaxation and memory effects of magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Functionalized magnetic nanoparticles are pivotal in magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, controlled drug delivery, and hyperthermia treatments due to their exceptional magnetic relaxation and functional properties. The magnetic core composition and structure significantly affects the complex magnetic properties of these nanoparticles necessitating a thorough examination of magnetism fundamentals related to these systems. One important aspect is the ability of magnetic nanoparticles to retain previous magnetic state configurations known as memory effect, primarily governed by domain structure and magnetic anisotropy. Despite its relevance to advanced applications, comprehensive studies on magnetic relaxation and memory effects remain limited. Here, the present review aims to bridge this gap by investigating relaxation mechanisms, synthesis strategies, and applications, fostering further innovation. It investigates the memory effects and their dependence on particle composition and morphology along with key synthesis techniques for large-scale production in industrial adoption. Structured into focused sections on magnetic properties and their influence on biomedical and technological applications, this review provides essential insights into memory effects, magneto-relaxation mechanisms, influencing factors, and both experimental and theoretical methodologies. It also delves into computational modelling and AI-driven design, which are revolutionizing the prediction, discovery, and optimization of materials with tailored properties.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Examples of State and Utility Actions on Proactive Planning and Investments

As states across the U.S. confront rising electricity demand, clean energy deployment, grid modernization imperatives, and the integration of large new loads, some regulators and utilities are shifting away from reactive, “just-in-time” investment approaches toward more proactive planning and investment frameworks. This report compiles examples of jurisdictional and utility actions that reshape planning processes, cost recovery mechanisms, and performance oversight to anticipate—rather than simply respond to—future grid needs. Several themes emerge from state actions examined in this report. First, legislatures and commissions are increasingly directing utilities to proactively upgrade their distribution and transmission systems, reflecting a shift toward a forward-looking system that aligns planning with state policy goals. Second, states are establishing long-term, iterative planning frameworks that often feature multi-year horizons, biannual or annual compliance reporting, structured opportunities for stakeholder engagement, and emphasis on collaboration among utilities, regulators, and stakeholders. Third, states are actively investigating innovative cost recovery mechanisms designed to support accelerated electrification and grid modernization, while balancing consumer advocates’ concerns regarding the ratepayer financial risks of premature investments. Fourth, performance metrics and reporting requirements are being developed to ensure transparency and accountability for proactive investments. Fifth, methodological improvements in planning—such as aligning load forecasting assumptions, incorporating sensitivities, and considering load management potential across building, vehicles, storage, and demand response—are recurring areas of stakeholder focus across jurisdictions. Overall, these developments signify a growing recognition among state regulators, utilities, and stakeholders that proactive planning—supported by clear definitions, consistent and transparent methodologies, robust performance metrics, and innovative cost recovery mechanisms—is a tool that can be used to address the scale and urgency of contemporary grid needs.

electricity market↗
NASA NTRS2004

Evaluating and optimizing horticultural regimes in space plant growth facilities

In designing innovative space plant growth facilities (SPGF) for long duration space flight, various limitations must be addressed including onboard resources: volume, energy consumption, heat transfer and crew labor expenditure. The required accuracy in evaluating on board resources by using the equivalent mass methodology and applying it to the design of such facilities is not precise. This is due to the uncertainty of the structure and not completely understanding the properties of all associated hardware, including the technology in these systems. We present a simple criteria of optimization for horticultural regimes in SPGF: Qmax = max [M x (EBI)2/(V x E x T], where M is the crop harvest in terms of total dry biomass in the plant growth system; EBI is the edible biomass index (harvest index), V is volume occupied by the crop; E is the crop light energy supply during growth; T is the crop growth duration. The criterion reflects directly on the consumption of onboard resources for crop production. c2004 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

NASA Discipline Life Support Systems↗
NASA NTRS2014

Venus High Temperature Atmospheric Dropsonde and Extreme-Environment Seismometer (HADES)

The atmospheric composition and geologic structure of Venus have been identified by the US National Research Council's Decadal Survey for Planetary Science as priority targets for scientific exploration, however the high temperature and pressure at the surface, along with the highly corrosive chemistry of the Venus atmosphere, present significant obstacles to spacecraft design that have severely limited past and proposed landed missions. Following the methodology of the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) proposal regime and the Collaborative Modeling and Parametric Assessment of Space Systems (COMPASS) design protocol, this paper presents a conceptual study and initial feasibility analysis for a Discovery-class Venus lander capable of an extended-duration mission at ambient temperature and pressure, incorporating emerging technologies within the field of high temperature electronics in combination with novel configurations of proven, high Technology Readiness Level (TRL) systems. Radioisotope Thermal Power (RTG) systems and silicon carbide (SiC) communications and data handling are examined in detail, and various high-temperature instruments are proposed, including a seismometer and an advanced photodiode imager. The study combines this technological analysis with proposals for a descent instrument package and a relay orbiter to demonstrate the viability of an integrated atmospheric and in-situ geologic exploratory mission that differs from previous proposals by greatly reducing the mass, power requirements, and cost, while achieving important scientific goals.

HADES↗
DOE OSTI2026

Cooperative Education

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary national laboratory that conducts research and development in national security, engineering, materials science, computational modeling, and advanced manufacturing. The laboratory develops innovative technologies to address complex scientific and engineering challenges. This project focuses on the development and evaluation of high-performance absorbing structures through computational design, simulation, and engineering analysis. Absorbing structures are used in applications where damage mitigation, structural protection, and material efficiency are critical performance requirements. The increasing demand for lightweight, high-strength, and highly efficient structural systems has created a need for improved design methodologies capable of maximizing absorption while minimizing weight and material usage. The project utilizes advanced engineering software, including 3D CAD software and FEA, to generate and optimize structural concepts. Computational simulations are performed to evaluate structural behavior under loading conditions, while mathematical analyses are conducted using Python-based tools as well as established analytical equations from material and structural mechanics. The project benefits LANL by supporting the development of advanced design methodologies and improving the understanding of material and structural performance. During the internship term, a significant portion of the design development, simulation, and data analysis activities will be completed. Success of the project depends on collaboration among engineering mentors and technical staff members. Work will be conducted at Los Alamos National Laboratory using laboratory computing resources and engineering software.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS2000

A Strip-Yield Model for Predicting the Growth of Part-Through Cracks Under Cyclic Loading

Flaws exist in aircraft structures due to manufacturing operations and material defects. Under variable amplitude cyclic loading, these flaws grow as part-through cracks reducing the residual strength of structural components. To meet damage tolerant design requirements, accurate flaw growth predictions are needed which account for continual changes in crack shape as well as crack growth retardation and acceleration. Predicting the growth of part-through cracks under cyclic loading using an innovative and computationally efficient model is the focus of the research summarized in this report. In this research effort, a slice synthesis methodology was developed and used to construct a modified strip-yield model for the part-through semi-elliptical surface flaw, enabling prediction of plasticity-induced closure along the crack front and subsequent fatigue crack growth under constant amplitude and variable amplitude loading. While modeling the plasticity-induced closure in a part-through flaw may be performed using three dimensional elastic-plastic finite element analysis, this type of effort is impractical from an engineering perspective. A modified strip-yield model similar to that used in FASTRAN for part-through flaws is a much needed engineering design tool, particularly when computational resources are limited.

Daniewicz, S. R.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Overview of the ACT program

NASA's Advanced Composites Program (ACT) was initiated in 1988. A National Research Announcement was issued to solicit innovative ideas that could significantly contribute to development and demonstration of an integrated technology data base and confidence level that permits cost-effective use of composite primary structures in transport aircraft. Fifteen contracts were awarded by the Spring of 1989 and the participants include commercial and military airframe manufacturers, materials developers and suppliers, universities, and government laboratories. The program approach is to develop materials, structural mechanics methodology, design concepts, and fabrication procedures that offer the potential to make composite structures cost-effective compared to aluminum structure. Goals for the ACT program included 30-50 percent weight reduction, 20-25 percent acquisition cost reduction, and provided the scientific basis for predicting materials and structures performance. This paper provides an overview of the ACT program status, plans, and selected technical accomplishments. Sixteen additional papers, which provide more detailed information on the research and development accomplishments, are contained in this publication.

Davis, John G., Jr.↗