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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 361 records · Page 20

Dynamic in-context learning with conversational models for data extraction and materials property prediction

The advent of natural language processing and large language models (LLMs) has revolutionized the extraction of data from unstructured scholarly papers. However, ensuring data trustworthiness remains a significant challenge. In this paper, we introduce PropertyExtractor, an open-source tool that leverages advanced conversational LLMs such as Google gemini-pro and OpenAI gpt-4, blends zero-shot with few-shot in-context learning, and employs engineered prompts for the dynamic refinement of structured information hierarchies—enabling autonomous, efficient, scalable, and accurate identification, extraction, and verification of material property data. Our tests on material data demonstrate precision and recall that exceed 95% with an error rate of ∼9%, highlighting the effectiveness and versatility of the toolkit. Finally, databases for 2D material thicknesses, a critical parameter for device integration, and energy bandgap values are developed using PropertyExtractor. In particular, for the thickness database, the rapid evolution of the field has outpaced both experimental measurements and computational methods, creating a significant data gap. Our work addresses this gap and showcases the potential of PropertyExtractor as a reliable and efficient tool for the autonomous generation of various material property databases, advancing the field.

Ekuma, Chinedu E. (ORCID:0000000258527556)↗

Pressure effects on the electronic structure and superconductivity of ( TaNb ) 0.67 ( HfZrTi ) 0.33 high entropy alloy

Effects of pressure on the electronic structure, electron-phonon interaction and superconductivity of the high entropy alloy (TaNb) 0.67 (HfZrTi) 0.33 , is studied in the range from 0 to 100 GPa. Electronic structure is calculated using the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker method and the coherent potential approximation. Effects of pressure on the lattice dynamics were simulated using the Debye- Gru ¨neisen model, and the Gruneisen parameter at ambient conditions, Debye temperature and Sommerfeld electronic heat capacity coefficient were additionally experimentally determined. The electron-phonon coupling parameter λ is calculated using the McMillan-Hopfield parameters, computed in the rigid muffin tin approximation. We find, that the system undergoes the Lifshitz transition, as one of the bands cross the Fermi level at elevated pressures. The electron-phonon coupling parameter ? decreases above 10 GPa, however, calculated superconducting Tc increases up to 40 - 50 GPa and later is stabilized at the larger value than for the ambient conditions, in agreement with the experimental findings. Our results show, that the evolution of Tc with pressure in (TaNb) 0.67 (HfZrTi) 0.33 can be very well explained by the classical electron-phonon mechanism.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Raman Interferometry between Autoionizing States to Probe Ultrafast Wave-Packet Dynamics with High Spectral Resolution

Photoelectron interferometry with femtosecond and attosecond light pulses is a powerful probe of the fast electron wave-packet dynamics, albeit it has practical limitations on the energy resolution. We show that one can simultaneously obtain both high temporal and spectral resolution by stimulating Raman interferences with one light pulse and monitoring the modification of the electron yield in a separate step. Applying this spectroscopic approach to the autoionizing states of argon, we experimentally resolved its electronic composition and time evolution in exquisite detail. Theoretical calculations show remarkable agreement with the observations and shed light on the light-matter interaction parameters. Using appropriate Raman probing and delayed detection steps, this technique enables highly sensitive probing and control of electron dynamics in complex systems.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗

Advanced Detection of Wellbore Failure for Safe and Secure Utilization of Subsurface Infrastructure

The main goal of this project was to create a state-of-the-art predictive capability that screens and identifies wellbores that are at the highest risk of catastrophic failure. This capability is critical to a host of subsurface applications, including gas storage, hydrocarbon extraction and storage, geothermal energy development, and waste disposal, which depend on seal integrity to meet U.S. energy demands in a safe and secure manner. In addition to the screening tool, this project also developed several other supporting capabilities to help understand fundamental processes involved in wellbore failure. This included novel experimental methods to characterize permeability and porosity evolution during compressive failure of cement, as well as methods and capabilities for understanding two-phase flow in damaged wellbore systems, and novel fracture-resistant cements made from recycled fibers.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Interplay of quantum information, thermodynamics, and gravity in the early Universe

Our interdisciplinary proposal brought together a unique team of researchers to tackle foundational questions on the quantum origins of the Universe and out-of-equilibrium quantum systems in general. The specific goals of our proposal were as follows. First, to develop a self-consistent quantum mechanical framework for the early Universe using an open system approach, with focus on non-Markovian vs. Markovian evolution of system modes and signatures in late-time observables. Second, to explore the use of quantum resource theory and thermodynamics techniques to understand the initial conditions of the Universe. Third, to in vestigate open quantum system dynamics in strongly-coupled qubit and oscillator systems, with focus on non-Markovian evolution, entanglement dynamics, and quantum backaction, including experimental real izations and implications for gravity. And fourth, to establish thermodynamics for chaotic quantum systems, with emphasis on dynamics of information scrambling and implications for black hole solutions in AdS/CFT and quantum gravity.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Experimental gas-fired pulse-combustion studies

Experimental studies conducted at Argonne National Laboratory on a gas-fired, water-cooled, Helmholtz-type pulse combustion burner are discussed. In addition to the experimental work, information is presented on the evolution of pulse combustion, the types of pulse combustion burners and their applications, and the types of fuels used. Also included is a survey of other pertinent studies of gas-fired pulse combustion. The burner used in the Argonne research effort was equipped with adjustable air and gas flapper valves and was operated stably over a heat-input range of 30,000 to 200,000 Btu/h. The burner's overall heat transfer in the pulsating mode was 22 to 31% higher than when the unit was operated in the steady mode. Important phenomena discussed include (1) effects on performance produced by inserting a corebustor to change tailpipe diameter, (2) effects observed following addition of an air-inlet decoupling chamber to the unit, and (3) occurrence of carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas.

Blomquist, C. A.↗

Finite element analysis of notch behavior using a state variable constitutive equation

The state variable constitutive equation of Bodner and Partom was used to calculate the load-strain response of Inconel 718 at 649 C in the root of a notch. The constitutive equation was used with the Bodner-Partom evolution equation and with a second evolution equation that was derived from a potential function of the stress and state variable. Data used in determining constants for the constitutive models was from one-dimensional smooth bar tests. The response was calculated for a plane stress condition at the root of the notch with a finite element code using constant strain triangular elements. Results from both evolution equations compared favorably with the observed experimental response. The accuracy and efficiency of the finite element calculations also compared favorably to existing methods.

Dame, L. T.↗

On the generation and evolution of internal gravity waves

The tidal generation and evolution of internal gravity waves is investigated experimentally and theoretically using a two-dimensional two-layer model. Time-dependent flow is created by moving a profile of maximum submerged depth 7.7 cm through a total stroke of 29 cm in water above a freon-kerosene mixture in an 8.6-m-long 30-cm-deep 20-cm-wide transparent channel, and the deformation of the fluid interface is recorded photographically. A theoretical model of the interface as a set of discrete vortices is constructed numerically; the rigid structures are represented by a source distribution; governing equations in Lagrangian form are obtained; and two integrodifferential equations relating baroclinic vorticity generation and source-density generation are derived. The experimental and computed results are shown in photographs and graphs, respectively, and found to be in good agreement at small Froude numbers. The reasons for small discrepancies in the position of the maximum interface displacement at large Froude numbers are examined.

Lansing, F. S.↗

Magnetospheric studies using the UKS data

The magnetic field data from the UKS spacecraft were analyzed to learn more about the solar wind interaction with the Earth's magnetosphere and about the magnetosphere itself. The data was reduced from raw experimenter data records to engineering units. The evolution of the waves in the foreshock, the varying structure of the bow shock along the boundary, simultaneous behavior of the magnetopause in the north and south hemisphere and MHD waves in the magnetosphere and magnetosheath were examined.

Russell, C. T.↗

Effect of tabs on the evolution of an axisymmetric jet

The effect of vortex generators, in the form of small tabs at the nozzle exit, on the evolution of an axisymmetric jet was investigated experimentally over a jet Mach number range of 0.34 to 1.81. The effects of one, two, and four tabs were studied in comparison with the corresponding case without a tab. Each tab introduced an indentation in the shear layer, apparently through the action of streamwise vortices which appeared to be of the trailing vortex type originating from the tips of the tab rather that of the necklace vortex type originating from the base of the tab. The resultant effect of two tabs, placed at diametrically opposite locations, was to essentially bifurcate the jet. The influence of the tabs was essentially the same at subsonic and supersonic conditions indicating that compressibility has little to do with the effect.

Zaman, K. B. M. Q.↗

Effect of tabs on the evolution of an axisymmetric jet

The effect of vortex generators, in the form of small tabs at the nozzle exit, on the evolution of an axisymmetric jet was investigated experimentally over a jet Mach number range of 0.34 to 1.81. The effects of one, two, and four tabs were studied in comparison with the corresponding case without a tab. Each tab introduced an indentation in the shear layer, apparently through the action of streamwise vortices which appeared to be of the trailing vortex type originating from the tips of the tab rather than of the necklace vortex type originating from the base of the tab. The resultant effect of two tabs, placed at diametrically opposite locations, was to essentially bifurcate the jet. The influence of the tabs was essentially the same at subsonic and supersonic conditions indicating that compressibility has little to do with the effect.

Zaman, K. B. M. Q.↗

Closed ecological systems: From test tubes to Earth's biosphere

Artificially constructed closed ecological systems (CES) have been researched both experimentally and theoretically for over 25 years. The size of these systems have varied from less than one liter to many thousands of cubic meters in volume. The diversity of the included components has a similarly wide range from purely aquatic systems to soil based systems that incorporate many aspects of Earth's biosphere. While much has been learned about the functioning of these closed systems, much remains to be learned. In this paper, we compare and contrast the behavior of closed ecological systems of widely different sizes through an analysis of their atmospheric composition. In addition, we will compare the performance of relatively small CES with the behavior of Earth's biosphere. We address the applicability of small CES as replicable analogs for planetary biospheres and discuss the use of small CES as an experimental milieu for an examination of the evolution of extra-terrestrial colonies.

Frye, Robert J.↗

Containerless processing of undercooled melts

The investigation focused on the control of microstructural evolution in Mn-Al, Fe-Ni, Ni-V, and Au-Pb-Sb alloys through the high undercooling levels provided by containerless processing, and provided fundamental new information on the control of nucleation. Solidification analysis was conducted by means of thermal analysis, x-ray diffraction, and metallographic characterization on samples processed in a laboratory scale drop tube system. The Mn-Al alloy system offers a useful model system with the capability of phase separation on an individual particle basis, thus permitting a more complete understanding of the operative kinetics and the key containerless processing variables. This system provided the opportunity of analyzing the nucleation rate as a function of processing conditions and allowed for the quantitative assessment of the relevant processing parameters. These factors are essential in the development of a containerless processing model which has a predictive capability. Similarly, Ni-V is a model system that was used to study duplex partitionless solidification, which is a structure possible only in high under cooling solidification processes. Nucleation kinetics for the competing bcc and fcc phases were studied to determine how this structure can develop and the conditions under which it may occur. The Fe-Ni alloy system was studied to identify microstructural transitions with controlled variations in sample size and composition during containerless solidification. This work was forwarded to develop a microstructure map which delineates regimes of structural evolution and provides a unified analysis of experimental observations. The Au-Pb-Sb system was investigated to characterize the thermodynamic properties of the undercooled liquid phase and to characterize the glass transition under a variety of processing conditions. By analyzing key containerless processing parameters in a ground based drop tube study, a carefully designed flight experiment may be planned to utilize the extended duration microgravity conditions of orbiting spacecraft.

Perepezko, J. H.↗

Microstructural transitions during containerless processing of undercooled Fe-Ni alloys

In order to identify the possible hierarchy of microstructural pathways and transitions, a systematic evaluation of the microstructural evolution in undercooled Fe-Ni alloys was performed on uniformly processed samples covering seven orders of magnitude in volume. At appropriate undercooling levels, alternate solidification pathways become thermodynamically possible and metastable product structures can result from the operation of competitive solidification kinetics. For thermal history evaluation, a heat flow analysis was applied and tested with large Fe-Ni alloy particles (1 to 3 mm) to assess undercooling potential. Alloy powders (10 to 150 microns), with large liquid undercoolings, were studied under the same composition and processing conditions to evaluate the solidification kinetics and microstructural evolution, including fcc/bcc phase selection and the thermal stability of a retained metastable bcc phase. The identification of microstructural transitions with controlled variations in sample size and composition during containerless solidification processing was used to develop a microstructure map which delineates regimes of structural evolutions and provides a unified analysis of experimental observations in the Fe-Ni system.

Thoma, D. J.↗

Evolution and Transport of Water in the Upper Regolith of Mars

Long standing theoretical predictions [1-3], as well as recent spacecraft observations [4] indicate that large quantities of ice is present in the high latitudes upper decimeters to meters of the Martian regolith. At shallower depths and warmer locations small amounts of H2O, either adsorbed or free, may be present transiently. An understanding of the evolution of water based on theoretical and experimental considerations of the processes operating at the Martian environment is required. In particular, the porosity, diffusivity, and permeability of soils and their effect on water vapor transport under Mars-like conditions have been estimated, but experimental validation of such models is lacking. Goal: Three related mechanisms may affect water transport in the upper Martian regolith. 1) diffusion along a concentration gradient under isobaric conditions, 2) diffusion along a thermal gradient, which may give rise to a concentration gradient as ice sublimes or molecules desorb from the regolith, and 3) hydraulic flow, or mass motion in response to a pressure gradient. Our combined theoretical and experimental investigation seeks to disentangle these mechanisms and determine which process(es) are dominant in the upper regolith over various timescales. A detailed one-dimensional model of the upper regolith is being created which incorporates water adsorption/ desorption, condensation, porosity, diffusivity, and permeability effects. Certain factors such as diffusivity are difficult to determine theoretically due to the wide range of intrinsic grain properties such as particle sizes, shapes, packing densities, and emergent properties such as tortuosity. An experiment is being designed which will allow us to more accurately determine diffusivity, permeability, and water desorption isotherms for regolith simulants.

Hudson, T. L.↗

Mars-Analog Evaporite Experiment: Initial Results

This research is part of a multiyear experimental investigation to understand the nature and evolution brines and evaporates on Mars. The spectacular discoveries of the MER rovers, particularly those of Opportunity at Meridiani, both illustrate the relevance, as well as guide the future direction, of this work. Here we report the initial results from our just-completed and tested evaporites apparatus, using a synthetic brine analog to our brine experiment simulating a modern Mars environment in which the brine was subjected to rapid evaporation under modern Martian conditions. Additional information is included in the original extended abstract.

Moore, J. M.↗

Pre-Stall Behavior of a Transonic Axial Compressor Stage via Time-Accurate Numerical Simulation

CFD calculations using high-performance parallel computing were conducted to simulate the pre-stall flow of a transonic compressor stage, NASA compressor Stage 35. The simulations were run with a full-annulus grid that models the 3D, viscous, unsteady blade row interaction without the need for an artificial inlet distortion to induce stall. The simulation demonstrates the development of the rotating stall from the growth of instabilities. Pressure-rise performance and pressure traces are compared with published experimental data before the study of flow evolution prior to the rotating stall. Spatial FFT analysis of the flow indicates a rotating long-length disturbance of one rotor circumference, which is followed by a spike-type breakdown. The analysis also links the long-length wave disturbance with the initiation of the spike inception. The spike instabilities occur when the trajectory of the tip clearance flow becomes perpendicular to the axial direction. When approaching stall, the passage shock changes from a single oblique shock to a dual-shock, which distorts the perpendicular trajectory of the tip clearance vortex but shows no evidence of flow separation that may contribute to stall.

Chen, Jen-Ping↗

Incorporation of Failure Into an Orthotropic Three-Dimensional Model with Tabulated Input Suitable for Use in Composite Impact Problems

The need for accurate material models to simulate the deformation, damage and failure of polymer matrix composites under impact conditions is becoming critical as these materials are gaining increased use in the aerospace and automotive communities. The aerospace community has identified several key capabilities which are currently lacking in the available material models in commercial transient dynamic finite element codes. To attempt to improve the predictive capability of composite impact simulations, a next generation material model is being developed for incorporation within the commercial transient dynamic finite element code LS-DYNA. The material model, which incorporates plasticity, damage and failure, utilizes experimentally based tabulated input to define the evolution of plasticity and damage and the initiation of failure as opposed to specifying discrete input parameters such as modulus and strength. The plasticity portion of the orthotropic, three-dimensional, macroscopic composite constitutive model is based on an extension of the Tsai-Wu composite failure model into a generalized yield function with a non-associative flow rule. For the damage model, a strain equivalent formulation is used to allow for the uncoupling of the deformation and damage analyses. In the damage model, a semi-coupled approach is employed where the overall damage in a particular coordinate direction is assumed to be a multiplicative combination of the damage in that direction resulting from the applied loads in various coordinate directions. For the failure model, a tabulated approach is utilized in which a stress or strain based invariant is defined as a function of the location of the current stress state in stress space to define the initiation of failure. Failure surfaces can be defined with any arbitrary shape, unlike traditional failure models where the mathematical functions used to define the failure surface impose a specific shape on the failure surface. In the current paper, the complete development of the failure model is described and the generation of a tabulated failure surface for a representative composite material is discussed.

Impact↗