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At least 379 records · Page 21

Development of a broadband hard x-ray radiography platform for pulsed-power experiments

In this article, we develop and demonstrate a broadband hard x-ray radiography platform at the Zebra Pulsed Power Laboratory that integrates point-projection radiography, bremsstrahlung measurements, and hard x-ray pinhole imaging, designed to diagnose current-driven, cylindrically compressed matter. Initial laser-pulsed-power coupled experiments revealed that intense background radiation generated during 1 MA Zebra current shots overwhelmed laser-produced hard x-rays, obscuring radiographic images. Using combined spectral and spatial diagnostics, we identify energetic electrons accelerated by return currents as the dominant source of background hard x-rays, with electron energies inferred to be 3–4 MeV based on Monte Carlo simulations, and demonstrate mitigation through modifications to the radiation shielding and return-current configuration. The diagnostic platform was validated using a wire-pinch hard x-ray source, allowing radiographs of static 1-mm-diameter aluminum wires to be obtained while simultaneously measuring x-ray source spectra and spatial emission distributions within a single shot. Measured wire transmission profiles were quantitatively reconstructed using radiation transport simulations that incorporate an experimentally inferred two-temperature exponential x-ray spectrum from bremsstrahlung signal analysis and spatially distributed emission sources identified by pinhole imaging. Agreement between measured and simulated transmission profiles demonstrates the validity of the radiographic and x-ray source characterization approach, establishing this diagnostic platform as a promising tool for diagnosing magnetically driven, high-density plasmas relevant to warm dense matter and inertial fusion energy research.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

High power density compact drive integrated motor for electric transportation

This project, initially part of OPEN 2018, and subsequently the ASCEND effort, targeted demonstration of significant enhancements in internal permanent magnet (IPM) motor torque and power density for current and future ground and air electric transportation applications. These were achieved through: (1) embedded two-phase system thermal management, (2) coupled, multi-scale electrical-electromagnetic-thermal-mechanical co-design and optimization, (3) size and weight reduction of motor and drive electronics through elimination of redundant cooling and coupling hardware, and (4) higher efficiency operation of SiC wide bandgap power electronics packaging through high temperature operation (200 oC). The proposed approach utilizes a single dielectric coolant for closed loop two-phase thermal management, and a combined heat rejection unit for the IPM and drive. Wick assisted liquid delivery for evaporative thermal management is utilized for the motor, and the drive electronics utilize the same coolant in flow boiling within the cold plate structures. Through the use of three-dimensional packaging for SiC, and novel drive topologies with reduced switching losses, significant increases in power density and compactness were targeted.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

Increasing the mobility and power-electronics figure of merit of AlGaN with atomically thin AlN/GaN digital-alloy superlattices

Alloy scattering in random AlGaN alloys drastically reduces the electron mobility and, therefore, the power-electronics figure of merit. As a result, Al compositions greater than 75% are required to obtain even a twofold increase in the Baliga figure of merit compared to GaN. However, beyond approximately 80% Al composition, donors in AlGaN undergo the DX transition, which makes impurity doping increasingly more difficult. Moreover, the contact resistance increases exponentially with the increase in Al content, and integration with dielectrics becomes difficult due to the upward shift of the conduction band. Atomically thin superlattices of AlN and GaN, also known as digital alloys, are known to grow experimentally under appropriate growth conditions. These chemically ordered nanostructures could offer significantly enhanced figure of merit compared to their random alloy counterparts due to the absence of alloy scattering, as well as better integration with contact metals and dielectrics. In this work, we investigate the electronic structure and phonon-limited electron mobility of atomically thin AlN/GaN digital-alloy superlattices using first-principles calculations based on density-functional and many-body perturbation theory. The bandgap of the atomically thin superlattices reaches 4.8 eV, and the in-plane (out-of-plane) mobility is 369 (452) cm 2 V -1 s -1 . Using the modified Baliga figure of merit that accounts for the dopant ionization energy, here we demonstrate that atomically thin AlN/GaN superlattices with a monolayer sublattice periodicity have the highest modified Baliga figure of merit among several technologically relevant ultra-wide bandgap materials, including random AlGaN, β-Ga 2 O 3 , cBN, and diamond.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Long-pulse high-performance H-mode plasmas achieved on EAST

A record duration of a 310 s H-mode plasma (H 98y2 ~ 1.3, n e /n GW ~ 0.7, f BS > 50%) has been recently achieved on experimental advanced superconducting tokamak (EAST) with metal walls, exploiting the device's improved long-pulse capabilities. The experiment demonstrates good control of tungsten concentration, core/edge MHD stability, and particle and heat exhaust with an ITER-like tungsten divertor and zero injected torque, establishing a milestone on the path to steady-state long-pulse high-performance scenarios in support of ITER and CFETR. Important synergistic effects are leveraged toward this result, which relies purely on radio frequency (RF) powers for heating and current drive (H&CD). On-axis electron cyclotron heating enhances the H&CD efficiency from lower hybrid wave injection, increasing confinement quality and enabling fully non-inductive operation at high density (n e /n GW ~ 70%) and high poloidal beta (β P ~ 2.5). A small-amplitude grassy edge localized mode regime facilitates the RF power coupling to the H-mode edge and reduces divertor sputtering/erosion. The high energy confinement quality (H 98y2 ~ 1.3) is achieved with the experimental and simulated results pointing to the strong effect of Shafranov shift on turbulence. Transport analysis suggests that trapped electron modes dominate in the core region during the record discharge. The detailed physics processes (RF synergy, core-edge integration, confinement properties, etc.) of the steady-state operation will be illustrated in the content. In the future, EAST will aim at accessing more relevant dimensionless parameters to develop long-pulse high-performance plasma toward ITER and CFETR steady-state advanced operation.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Synthesis and characterization of electron beam irradiation-induced damage in polycrystalline metal thin films

High-energy physics research, industrial sterilizing, and material processing depend extensively on electron beam accelerators. Exit windows are crucial components of such electron accelerator systems, maintaining vacuum integrity inside the machine while providing mechanical strength, thermal stability, and radiation resistance at the beam-target interface. In this study, thin metallic films of Ni, Ti, Cr, and V were explored for use in electron beam exit windows, and their properties were compared with the properties of their bulk counterparts. Simulation results of metal foils predicted Ti to exhibit less beam power dissipation compared to Ni. However, Ni possesses superior mechanical and structural properties compared to Ti. The performance of these films under electron beam irradiation was examined by depositing thin layers of these films on silicon and metallic substrates using magnetron sputtering and exposing them to e-beam irradiation in a controlled setup. The deposited films were subjected to a dose of approximately 66 kGy at a beam energy of 10 MeV and characterized prior to and postexposure to the beam using field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), and nanoindentation. Particular emphasis was given to characteristics like the grain structure, surface morphology, dislocation density, and hardness. XRD patterns revealed irradiation-induced changes in peak intensities, while the crystallinity remained largely unchanged. Nanoindentation results showed that the pristine and irradiated Ti and Ni films were twice as hard when compared to bulk Ti and Ni samples, regardless of the substrate type used (Si or bulk Ti, or Ni). These results emphasize the superior mechanical properties of thin metal films compared to their bulk counterparts. In conclusion, this study advances the optimization of thin film materials for robust and efficient e-beam applications, ensuring improved durability and operational reliability.

AFM↗

Magnetoelectric Composites: Applications, Coupling Mechanisms, and Future Directions

Multiferroic (MF)-magnetoelectric (ME) composites, which integrate magnetic and ferroelectric materials, exhibit a higher operational temperature (above room temperature) and superior (several orders of magnitude) ME coupling when compared to single-phase multiferroic materials. Room temperature control and the switching of magnetic properties via an electric field and electrical properties by a magnetic field has motivated research towards the goal of realizing ultralow power and multifunctional nano (micro) electronic devices. Here, some of the leading applications for magnetoelectric composites are reviewed, and the mechanisms and nature of ME coupling in artificial composite systems are discussed. Ways to enhance the ME coupling and other physical properties are also demonstrated. Finally, emphasis is given to the important open questions and future directions in this field, where new breakthroughs could have a significant impact in transforming scientific discoveries to practical device applications, which can be well-controlled both magnetically and electrically.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Plasma heating technology

The operational environment for plasma heating systems presents unprecedented challenges for the success of magnetic fusion. This chapter discusses the current state of ion cyclotron and electron cyclotron heating systems and the research and development priorities needed to establish working solutions for these systems. While much progress has been made, there is much more work to be done to make fusion energy commercially viable. Research and development priorities include radiation-resistant structural and plasma facing materials, advanced manufacturing methods, new cooling methods, first-wall integrated actuators, improvements in power source efficiency, higher frequency gyrotrons, and improved overall system reliability.

Caughman, John↗

Use of Rig Parameter Data in Bit Constraint Models for Improved Drilling Performance at The Geysers

Surface parameter measurements are routinely used during deep well construction to monitor and guide drilling conditions for improved performance and reduced costs. However, these measurements are of reduced value without a standard to aid in evaluation and decision making. A method is demonstrated whereby drill bit constraint models are used to interpret drilling response parameters. Drill rig parameter data for well GDC-36 at the Geysers Geothermal Field Power were acquired by Geysers Power Company and drilling contractor Kenai Drilling using Pason US DataHub and evaluated. Drilling parameters are evaluated using laboratory-validated rock reduction models for predicting the phenomenological response of drag bits (Detournay and Defourny, 1992) along with other model constraints in computational algorithms. The method is used to evaluate overall bit performance, monitor bit integrity, and detect the presence of drillstring vibrations and other conditions contributing to bit failure; comparisons are made to observations of bit wear and damage. The method will be applied in real-time to improve decision-making on subsequent wells and has applicability to development of advanced analytics on future geothermal wells using real-time electronic drilling recorder (EDR) data for improved performance and reduced drilling costs.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗

Photon-to-Digital Converters for Neutron Imaging Instruments (Final Report)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) collaborated with the Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) to design a modular and scalable tile of innovative digital photodetectors called Photon-to-Digital Converters (PDC) and the required subsystems to demonstrate the feasibility of large area single-photon detectors to support high-resolution, depth-of-interaction, fast neutron radiography based on scintillation detectors. The goal is to demonstrate the advantages of using PDC over conventional Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) for neutron imaging systems. The basic building blocks of analog SiPM and PDC are Single-Photon Avalanche Photodiodes (SPAD). The main difference between conventional SiPMs and PDCs, is in the fact that analog SiPMs sum the charge produced by individual SPAD passively, while in PDCs each SPAD is read out individually by an active electronic circuit. Hence, PDCs provide a direct photon-to-bit conversion where a logic “1” means that there was a detection in a given SPAD. Conversely, an analog SiPM requires a sophisticated preamplifier (current amplifiers or transimpedance amplifier) followed by a shaping amplifier and an analog-to-digital converter. Moreover, since the charge from each SPAD varies slightly, the passive sum of the analog SiPM will have signal fluctuations for the same amount of photon detected. This is one of many issues that is completely eliminated by individual one-to-one SPAD read out in PDCs. The large area required for scintillator readouts for neutron imaging is such that the output capacitance of a large area of SiPM arrays is very high. This creates a burden on the signal-to-noise optimization with respect to the power budget. For PDC, the power consumption is dictated by rate of the incident photon flux, or in photon-starved environments, the dark noise rate of the SPAD array. In other words, the power consumption in the absence of events is extremely low. Hence, the power consumption of a PDC read out system is much lower than its analog counterpart. Further, the large SiPM capacitance may introduce signal distortions on the scintillator fast rise or decay time with undesired effects on timing and pulse shape discrimination. The problem is absent in PDCs, as their readout is independent on device capacitance. UdeS is the world leader in 3D vertical integration of frontside illuminated SPAD arrays over CMOS readouts. These capabilities allow future production of “3D PDC” with maximum photosensitive fill factor and electronic functionalities tailored to the application. UdeS' vast knowledge of SPADs and CMOS design made the team an ideal collaborator in the development of large area high-resolution fast neutron radiography.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Remote Radiation Sensing Using Aerial and Ground Platforms

Remote sensing of ionizing radiation has a significant role in waste management, nuclear material management and nonproliferation, and radiation safety. Robotic platforms can surpass the number of tasks that are achieved by humans. With this technique, the operator's radiation exposure can be decreased. Remote sensing allows for the evaluation and monitoring of radiological contamination. Gamma-ray and neutron sensors were integrated onto the robotic platforms. This approach allows for the radiation sensor data to be dynamically tracked and mapped thus enabling further analysis of the radiation flux in temporal and spatial domains. The goal is to complete scheduled tasks while the robot is being irradiated. To achieve this, electronic components must be shielded and radiation hardened. CZT Detector: Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT) detector technology has been a promising solution for gamma-ray and x-ray measurements. Detector data is transferred to the Odroid minicomputer that controls and powers the module via the USB. Robot Operating System (ROS) was utilized for data acquisition and data fusion. The Mariscotti method was employed for the spectrum analysis. A function was programmed in ROS for the automatic identification of photopeaks. CLYC Detector: A Cs{sub 2}LiYCl{sub 6}:Ce{sup 3+} (CLYC) detector was used for simultaneous medium-resolution gamma-ray measurements and neutron counting. A 2.54 cm diameter photomultiplier tube (PMT) was equipped with a high voltage supply and a miniature digitizer. Gamma-ray excitation: fast core-to-valence luminescence (CVL) with 1 ns decay constant, and prompt Ce{sup 3+} emission with 50 ns decay constant. Neutron excitation: slow cerium self-trapped excitation (Ce{sup 3+} STE), 1000 ns decay constant. Radiation Source Localization: Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) and gradient-based methods were used to locate the position of a radiation source based on measured radiation intensities. Multi-Particle Transport Code FLUKA: Estimation of radiation damage of the electronic components is important in order to optimize the robot's operational time while it is irradiated. Displacement per atom (DPA) represents the radiation damage in materials exposed to the ionizing radiation. Various shielding layers of different thickness t were analyzed (< 5% statistical error). The model of the controller of the UAS was designed in FLUKA. Conclusion: CZT and CLYC detectors were integrated onto the robotic platforms. Radiation source localization and contour mapping using robotic platforms were studied. Functions for data analysis and fusion were developed in ROS. FLUKA code was utilized to analyze DPA values. Layers of low-density and high-density materials were used to shield the UAS electronics.

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

Characterization of high-flux cadmium zinc telluride detectors coupled to MM-PAD readout ASICs for high-flux X-ray applications

High-flux cadmium zinc telluride (HF-CZT) is a promising material for next-generation X-ray imaging due to its high stopping power, wide bandgap, and improved resistance to radiation-induced polarization [1]. We bonded 2 mm thick HF-CZT sensors with Cornell's Mixed-Mode Pixel Array ASICs, which combine analog charge integration and in-pixel digital counting to achieve single X-ray sensitivity, large full well capacity, and frame rates up to 10 kHz [2,3]. Detector characterization showed stable electron collection above 150 V bias, while hole collection remained limited by trapping even at 700 V. Temporal studies revealed non-negligible afterglow, with an unexpected increase in afterglow at higher biases, which was reduced by infrared illumination, suggesting that injected carriers reduce trapping near contact interfaces. Polarization measurements confirmed improved stability compared to conventional CZT, though polarization effects persisted, particularly with hole collection, with up to 5% signal loss and spatial distortion at high doses.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

A Preliminary Feasibility Study on Multi-Cavity Cryomodule Integration for the Electron Ion Collider Energy Recover Linac Cooler

The Electron-Ion Collider (EIC) is a state-of-the-art accelerator designed for collisions between highly polarized electrons and ions. To achieve optimal luminosity, the ion beam is cooled using an electron beam sourced from an energy recovery linac (ERL). In the current ERL baseline design, one BNL type RF cavity is used per cryomodule, leading to spatial and cost challenges. This study examines the feasibility of using more compact PERLE (Powerful Energy Recovery Linac for Experiments) type cavities, which can house multiple cavities within a single cryomodule, by evaluating their Beam Breakup (BBU) instability performance. Higher Order Modes (HOM) parameters were obtained through frequency scaling, assuming constant quality factor Q_L, R/Q, and linearly scaling HOM frequencies. To predict the BBU threshold current and ensure accuracy, two different BBU tracking simulations are used for cross-verification. Although the reduced footprint of PERLE-type cavities is advantageous, maintaining sufficient damping of HOMs remains crucial. Finally, we compare the HOM damping efficiency of both cavity types and suggest a pathway forward.

Deitrick, K.↗

DIII-D research advancing the physics basis for optimizing the tokamak approach to fusion energy

DIII-D physics research addresses critical challenges for the operation of ITER and the next generation of fusion energy devices. This is done through a focus on innovations to provide solutions for high performance long pulse operation, coupled with fundamental plasma physics understanding and model validation, to drive scenario development by integrating high performance core and boundary plasmas. Substantial increases in off-axis current drive efficiency from an innovative top launch system for EC power, and in pressure broadening for Alfven eigenmode control from a co-/counter-I p steerable off-axis neutral beam, all improve the prospects for optimization of future long pulse/steady state high performance tokamak operation. Fundamental studies into the modes that drive the evolution of the pedestal pressure profile and electron vs ion heat flux validate predictive models of pedestal recovery after ELMs. Understanding the physics mechanisms of ELM control and density pumpout by 3D magnetic perturbation fields leads to confident predictions for ITER and future devices. Validated modeling of high-Z shattered pellet injection for disruption mitigation, runaway electron dissipation, and techniques for disruption prediction and avoidance including machine learning, give confidence in handling disruptivity for future devices. For the non-nuclear phase of ITER, two actuators are identified to lower the L–H threshold power in hydrogen plasmas. With this physics understanding and suite of capabilities, a high poloidal beta optimized-core scenario with an internal transport barrier that projects nearly to Q = 10 in ITER at ~8 MA was coupled to a detached divertor, and a near super H-mode optimized-pedestal scenario with co-I p beam injection was coupled to a radiative divertor. The hybrid core scenario was achieved directly, without the need for anomalous current diffusion, using off-axis current drive actuators. Also, a controller to assess proximity to stability limits and regulate β N in the ITER baseline scenario, based on plasma response to probing 3D fields, was demonstrated. Finally, innovative tokamak operation using a negative triangularity shape showed many attractive features for future pilot plant operation.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Physics of wurtzite ferroelectrics

Ferroelectricity was long considered incompatible with the wurtzite structure, but the recent discovery of switchable polarization in wurtzite alloys has renewed interest in these materials for integrated electronic and memory applications. The development of wurtzite ferroelectrics faces significant technological challenges, which can be addressed through a fundamental physical understanding of their dielectric and ferroelectric properties. This article focuses on the physics that govern the polarization switching behavior, emphasizing the atomic- and meso-scale (domain) mechanisms involved in the transition between polarization states. A distinguishing feature of this article is a deep dive into the role of intrinsic and extrinsic defects—an area that has received limited attention in prior reviews, but is increasingly recognized as central to polarization switching, coercive fields, leakage, and fatigue. We highlight how defect behavior evolves during processing and electrical cycling, often contributing to long-term degradation. We also introduce powerful first-principles defect calculations, common in semiconductors but not yet widespread in ferroelectrics, as tools to understand and design materials. By integrating recent theoretical and experimental insights, we aim to provide a framework for advancing wurtzite ferroelectrics.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Integrated photonic encoder for low power and high-speed image processing

Abstract Modern lens designs are capable of resolving greater than 10 gigapixels, while advances in camera frame-rate and hyperspectral imaging have made data acquisition rates of Terapixel/second a real possibility. The main bottlenecks preventing such high data-rate systems are power consumption and data storage. In this work, we show that analog photonic encoders could address this challenge, enabling high-speed image compression using orders-of-magnitude lower power than digital electronics. Our approach relies on a silicon-photonics front-end to compress raw image data, foregoing energy-intensive image conditioning and reducing data storage requirements. The compression scheme uses a passive disordered photonic structure to perform kernel-type random projections of the raw image data with minimal power consumption and low latency. A back-end neural network can then reconstruct the original images with structural similarity exceeding 90%. This scheme has the potential to process data streams exceeding Terapixel/second using less than 100 fJ/pixel, providing a path to ultra-high-resolution data and image acquisition systems.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Integrated package of electron cyclotron emission imaging data processing and forward modeling in OMFIT

An Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging (ECEI) data analysis module has been developed for the OMFIT platform to accommodate the needs of users at the DIII-D tokamak for physics applications. The user can easily access the ECEI spatial observation windows in the plasma that are calculated based on the automatically retrieved hardware setup and available DIII-D equilibria, perform spectral analysis, and make 2D electron temperature fluctuation images. The module provides a powerful data post processing package for extracting important physics parameters from the 2D measurements, including the radial structure and poloidal mode number of Alfven Eigenmodes, as well as the frequency-vs-wavenumber dispersion relationship of broadband MHD. Lastly, the module propagates characterized synthetic fluctuations for the user, so one can perform forward modeling tasks with simple analytical fluctuations.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Intrusion Detection for Cybersecurity of Power Electronics Dominated Grids: Inverters PQ Set-Points Manipulation

This work provides cybersecurity analytics for a high photovoltaic (PV) penetrated distribution network, representing future power electronics dominated grid (PEDG). Firstly, the impact of active and reactive power (PQ) set-points manipulation on the network is studied. Then, an intrusion detection system (IDS) is developed for identifying the potentially compromised PV inverters in the network. The proposed IDS is based on defining the normal, safe, and abnormal operation regions of the PV inverters from point of view of the steady state voltage stability of the network. These three-operation regions are identified by utilizing active power, reactive power, and voltage (PQV) limits of each specific grid-following inverter in the network. Each grid-following inverter's PQV contour includes the information of network topology, inverter ratings, and inverter controller. The developed PQ limits are integrated into the centralized secondary control layer for realization of the proposed IDS. Furthermore, the proposed secondary control layer is capable of providing remedial actions during an anomaly event to enhance the grid resiliency. The theoretical analyses are verified by several attack scenarios for a network of grid-following inverters.

41 EE - Solar Energy Technologies Office (EE-4S)↗

Shaping the Infrared luminescence of Colloidal Nanocrystals Using a Dielectric Microcavity

As they have gained maturity, colloidal nanocrystals (NCs) have also expand the spectral range over of which they could be used for photonic and optoelectronic applications. In particular, the infrared use of NCs has become of utmost interest to develop cost-effective alternatives to current technologies. It is then critical not to let the material dictate the light–matter interaction, which is why the coupling of NCs to photonic cavities has been proposed. For infrared NCs, this approach has first been devoted to the control of absorption with in mind the increase of the signal magnitude for detectors. A Lot of efforts have been focused on the use of metallic metasurfaces. However, these generate significant optical losses and yield low quality factor. Here, this study rather focus on the coupling of infrared NCs to a dielectric mirror cavity. HgTe/CdS core-shell NCs are used and integrated into a cavity made of aperiodic dielectric mirrors. The effect of the substrate is systematically study on spectral linewidth, carrier dynamic, and emission directivity. The cavity is shown to narrow the PL by a factor 10, while focusing the emission over a 12° angle. Monitoring the power dependence of the emission, this study shows that the cavity leads to 250 K increase in the effective electronic temperature.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗