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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 433 records · Page 24

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DOE OSTI2020

Test Plan to Investigate the Optimal Cure Schedule of an Epoxy Resin for Its Application as an Adhesive in Optocouplers

Epoxy resins are polymeric materials that are known for their versatility, low cost, and strong thermal and mechanical properties. They can be used as coatings, adhesives, automotive primers, and have become staples in electronics, aerospace composites and semiconductor encapsulates. Recently, LANL has experienced a decline in the quality of a specialized electronic device, called an optocoupler, which is normally acquired from commercial suppliers. Because of this, a group at LANL is exploring the feasibility of in-house manufacturing of an optocoupler that is better suited for their application. The current prototype has resulted in adhesive failure after being exposed to several thermal cycles. There is a need to investigate the possible reasons for this failure, particularly how the cure schedule of the epoxy might affect its adhesive strength over time and in cycled temperatures. To assist in this investigation, a test plan has been developed involving multiple experiments using thermomechanical analysis (TMA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2026

Review on Perovskite Solar Cells: From Single‐Junction Devices to Tandem Deployment in Space

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a transformative photovoltaic technology, offering high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and the potential for cost-effective manufacturing. However, stability and large-scale manufacturing remain critical challenges that must be addressed for widespread adoption. This review provides a roadmap from single-junction perovskite solar cells to tandem deployment in space. First, material-level innovations are discussed, including mixed-cation and low-dimensional perovskites, transport materials, and additives that improve thermal and structural stability while enhancing efficiency. Then, we examine both established industrial standards and emerging scientific protocols aimed at stabilizing PSCs under operational conditions, including tandem cell integration strategies and encapsulation techniques to mitigate performance degradation. Manufacturing scalability is a focal point, where deposition methods and green solvents are explored to improve large-area film uniformity and reduce environmental impact. Additionally, the increasing viability of PSCs in extraterrestrial environments is assessed, with emphasis on their performance in space applications, radiation resistance, and flexible lamination methods for deployment in extreme conditions. Progress across materials innovation, device architectures, stability testing protocols, and both terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications collectively drives perovskite photovoltaics toward higher efficiency, stability, and cost-effectiveness.

flexible PSCs↗

DOE OSTI2024

Effect of Engineered Cracks in Catalyst Layers on PEMFC Catalyst Layer Durability

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are expected to play a pivotal role in decarbonizing the transportation sector, and particularly heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). However, improvements in durability are needed for PEMFCs to compete with state-of-the-art power sources for HDVs. Here, we examine how catalyst layer (CL) cracks that are engineered affect the CL durability by using patterned silicon templates to control the CL crack density at the micrometer scale. Electrochemical analyses show that the initial PEMFC performance is relatively unaffected by crack density, but the performance after durability testing was strongly affected. Specifically, CLs with high crack density showed higher performance relative to CLs without cracks after application of a carbon corrosion accelerated stress test. Electrochemical analyses coupled with X-ray computed tomography and scanning transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed that the cracks provide shorter oxygen diffusion pathways to reaction sites, leading to decreased oxygen transport resistance. Additionally, we observed that the catalyst durability is unaffected by cracks. Our results provide a mechanistic explanation of the role of cracks in CL durability.

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION↗

DOE OSTI2020

Mitigation of Gaseous Emissions from Swine Manure with the Surficial Application of Biochars

Environmental impact associated with odor and gaseous emissions from animal manure is one of the challenges for communities, farmers, and regulatory agencies. Microbe-based manure additives treatments are marketed and used by farmers for mitigation of emissions. However, their performance is difficult to assess objectively. Thus, comprehensive, practical, and low-cost treatments are still in demand. We have been advancing such treatments based on physicochemical principles. The objective of this research was to test the effect of the surficial application of a thin layer (¼ inches; 6.3 mm) of biochar on the mitigation of gaseous emissions (as the percent reduction, % R) from swine manure. Two types of biochar were tested: highly alkaline and porous (HAP) biochar made from corn stover and red oak (RO), both with different pH and morphology. Three 30-day trials were conducted with a layer of HAP and RO (2.0 & 1.65 kg∙m−2, respectively) applied on manure surface, and emissions of ammonia (NH3), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), greenhouse gases (GHG), and odorous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured. The manure and biochar type and properties had an impact on the mitigation effect and its duration. RO significantly reduced NH3 (19–39%) and p-cresol (66–78%). H2S was mitigated (16~23%), but not significantly for all trials. The phenolic VOCs had relatively high % R in most trials but not significantly for all trials. HAP reduced NH3 (4~21%) and H2S (2~22%), but not significantly for all trials. Significant % R for p-cresol (91~97%) and skatole (74~95%) were observed for all trials. The % R for phenol and indole ranged from (60~99%) and (29~94%) but was not significant for all trials. The impact on GHGs, isobutyric acid, and the odor was mixed with some mitigation and generation effects. However, larger-scale experiments are needed to understand how biochar properties and the dose and frequency of application can be optimized to mitigate odor and gaseous emissions from swine manure. The lessons learned can also be applicable to surficial biochar treatment of gaseous emissions from other waste and area sources.

Meiirkhanuly, Zhanibek↗

DOE OSTI2026

Review of Shock, Vibration, and Other Tests for Type IV Hydrogen Composite Pressure Vessels for Rail Use

Requirements specific to hydrogen rail transportation and its unique components are currently not well represented in safety codes and standards. Notably, one of the most important components of the system, the hydrogen storage vessel, may be subject to entirely different shock and vibration conditions compared to hydrogen tanks on road vehicles. This report focuses on how composite hydrogen tanks are tested for performance and how this may relate to these tanks being used on rail systems. The shock and vibration testing procedures that are relevant for hydrogen composite tanks used for rail applications have been identified, as well as some general testing requirements for hydrogen tanks and composite tanks.

42 ENGINEERING↗

DOE OSTI2021

Halogenation of used aluminum matrix test reactor fuel – a bench-scale demonstration with surrogate materials

In this work, experiments with surrogate materials were performed at bench scale to demonstrate a halogenation technique applicable to treatment of used aluminum matrix test reactor fuel. The technique involves dissolution and separation of aluminum from used aluminum matrix test reactor fuel in molten-halide salt systems prior to treatment and disposition of the fuel’s uranium and fission products. Demonstration of the halogenation technique was performed with neodymium metal as a non-radiological surrogate for uranium metal. Experiments involved blending forms of aluminum and neodymium metal with ammonium and lithium chloride or ammonium and lithium bromide, which upon heating decomposed into ammonia gas and the respective hydrogen chloride or bromide gas. The latter reacted with the metals to form the respective aluminum and neodymium halides. At elevated temperatures, aluminum halides gasified away from the respective neodymium halides, which fused with their respective lithium halides. Samples of fused and distillate salts were collected and analyzed, yielding extents of aluminum removal that ranged from 94.5–98.2% for chlorination runs and 91.4–97.8% for bromination runs. No neodymium was detected in the distillate fractions. Some experiments were repeated with excess reactants, and a portion of aluminum chloride distillate was processed into a consolidated waste form.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

DOE OSTI2020

Surface Acoustic Wave H2 and O2 Sensors Based on Conducting Metal Oxides/Langasite for Elevated Temperature Applications - presentation

• SAW reflective delay line devices were designed and successfully fabricated on Langasite by patterning platinum electrodes.• Fabricated devices successfully tested up to 500°C for temperature sensing applications.• Indium oxide (IO) and indium tin oxide (ITO) sensing layers were developed on the SAW devices using sputtering and sol-gel method.• IO- and ITO-functionalized langasite SAW reflective delay line devices were used for sensing H2 and O2 at 350°C.

Mao, Elizabeth↗

DOE OSTI2022

SOFTWARE TESTING TO UPGRADE M-STAR SOFTWARE FOR SAFETY AND WASTE FORM AFFECTING APPLICATIONS

Explore the source record for details and available documents.

NOBLE, SEAN↗

DOE OSTI2024

VnV: A Self Documenting Testing Framework for In-situ Verification and Validation in High Performance Computing Applications

Explore the source record for details and available documents.

96 KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND PRESERVATION↗

DOE OSTI2020

Experimental Test Bed to Enable Realistic Evaluations for Direct Transfer Trip Relaying via Private Wireless LTE Communications: Preprint

Increasing penetration levels of inverter-based distributed energy resources (DERs) in distribution systems are creating challenges in system operation. Currently, wired or proprietary wireless communications are used by advanced distribution management systems (ADMS) to detect the state of the system and control the DERs for optimal operation. Wireless communications are an alternative solution that can enable connectivity between the dispersed assets used in distribution system applications. This paper demonstrates an experimental test bed to enable the realistic evaluation of communications system characteristics for direct transfer trip (DTT) relaying of a photovoltaic inverter system using a private 900-MHz spectrum wireless LTE network. Private LTE network communications can be deployed to many remote DERs and other grid-edge devices to prevent costly infrastructure upgrades across distribution systems. In addition, this paper provides a framework for evaluating the impact of signal strength and network traffic in communications systems. The results shown develop a better understanding of the best practices for using LTE communications systems across multiple utility applications, such as protective relaying, voltage regulation, and supervisory control and data acquisition system messages.

900 MHz LTE network↗

DOE OSTI2021

Experimental Test Bed to Enable Realistic Evaluations for Direct Transfer Trip Relaying via Private Wireless LTE Communications

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

DOE OSTI2022

CAMERA: A method for cost-aware, adaptive, multifidelity, efficient reliability analysis

Estimating probability of failure in aerospace systems is a critical requirement for flight certification and qualification. Failure probability estimation involves resolving tails of probability distributions, and Monte Carlo sampling methods are intractable when expensive high-fidelity simulations have to be queried. Here, we propose a method to use models of multiple fidelities that trade accuracy for computational efficiency. Specifically, we propose the use of multifidelity Gaussian process models to efficiently fuse models at multiple fidelity, thereby offering a cheap surrogate model that emulates the original model at all fidelities. Furthermore, we propose a novel sequential acquisition function based experiment design framework that can automatically select samples from appropriate fidelity models to make predictions about quantities of interest at the highest fidelity. We use our proposed approach in an importance sampling setting and demonstrate our method on the failure level set and probability estimation on synthetic test functions and two real-world applications, namely, the reliability analysis of a gas turbine engine blade using a finite element method and a transonic aerodynamic wing test case using Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. We show that our method predicts the failure boundary and probability more accurately and at a fraction of the computational cost compared with using just a single expensive high-fidelity model. Finally, we show that our sequential approach is guaranteed to asymptotically converge to the true failure boundary with high probability.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

DOE OSTI2022

A Critical Review of Heat Pipe Experiments in Nuclear Energy Applications

This critical review provides heat pipe (HP) experimental data sets that contain pertinent information regarding nuclear technology that may be beneficial to researchers. Heat pipes have been shown to have a tremendously positive impact on nuclear technologies and will continue to become a more prevalent technology as more nuclear reactor concepts embrace this robust technology. Most previous reviews may focus on only a specific HP design or application, and some are backdated. Herein, this critical review extends previous efforts; integrates and summarizes previously reported HP experimental efforts; and provides updates with recently reported results in the literature for HPs in all nuclear-related applications, including space power (thermal radiators, core cooling, and electricity production), microreactors (emergency core cooling, hybrid control rods, and reactor core cooling), and HP involvement in other nuclear-related technologies (spent fuel pool cooling). The two main objectives of this critical review are (1) to facilitate the development of HP codes by outlining some of the existing experimental data sets to validate their codes and directing developers to these efforts and (2) to provide comprehensive information regarding the vast applicability of HPs used in the nuclear industry, including the theory of operation and limitations to supplement researchers in the development of new ideas for potential applications in nuclear-related technologies. The review clearly shows extensive and diverse experimental data sets for HPs developed under diverse testing conditions depending on the available nuclear application for validation purposes. Thus, this critical review is oriented to providing attention to the existing efforts rather than determining gaps in HP research.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

DOE OSTI2025

Ship Motion Testing Needs Evaluation

The American Bureau of Shipping performed an evaluation of national maritime nuclear testing capabilities and determined there currently is an inability to test maritime nuclear power plants in a ship motion environment. A Ship Motion Test Facility (SMTF) is proposed to fill this gap. To inform design of this facility, this report documents an evaluation performed by a panel of technical experts that identifies key physical phenomena associated with maritime nuclear power plant operation that are important to safety and reliability and have a low state of knowledge. This evaluation concluded that all of the major test needs to understand a nuclear plant's behavior in a ship motion environment are for thermal-hydraulics related phenomena. Based on this finding, the evaluation panel concluded that the SMTF would not be required to use nuclear fuel to provide a heat source for the fluids. This would significantly decrease the cost, timeline, and complexity for this test facility to enable the advancement of maritime nuclear technology.

22 - GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

DOE OSTI2020

Laser-Plasma Spectroscopy of Hydroxyl with Applications

This article discusses laser-induced laboratory-air plasma measurements and analysis of hydroxyl (OH) ultraviolet spectra. The computations of the OH spectra utilize line strength data that were developed previously and that are now communicated for the first time. The line strengths have been utilized extensively in interpretation of recorded molecular emission spectra and have been well-tested in laser-induced fluorescence applications for the purpose of temperature inferences from recorded data. Moreover, new experiments with Q-switched laser pulses illustrate occurrence of molecular recombination spectra for time delays of the order of several dozen of microseconds after plasma initiation. The OH signals occur due to the natural humidity in laboratory air. Centrifugal stretching of the Franck-Condon factors and r-centroids are included in the process of determining the line strengths that are communicated as a Supplementary File. Laser spectroscopy applications of detailed OH computations include laser-induced plasma and combustion analyses, to name but two applications. This work also includes literature references that address various diagnosis applications.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

DOE OSTI2024

Multi-level Monte Carlo methods in chemical applications with Lennard-Jones potentials and other landscapes with isolated singularities

We describe and compare outcomes of various Multi-Level Monte Carlo (MLMC) method variants, motivated by the potential of improved computational efficiency over rejection based Monte Carlo, which scales poorly with problem dimension. With an eye toward its application to computational chemical physics, we test MLMC's ability to sample trajectories on two problems — a familiar double-well potential, with known stationary distributions, and a Lennard-Jones solid potential (a Galton Board). By sampling Brownian motion trajectories, we are able to compute expectations of observable averages. These multi-basin potential energy problems capture the essence of the challenges with using MLMC, namely, maintaining correspondence of sample paths as time-resolution is varied. Addressing this challenge properly can lead to MLMC significantly outperforming standard Monte Carlo path sampling. We describe the essence of this problem and suggest strategies that circumvent diverging multilevel sample paths for an important class of problems. In the tests we also compare the computational cost of several, “adaptive,” variants of MLMC. Our results demonstrate that MLMC overcomes the collision, time scale limitation of the more familiar Brownian path MC samplers, and our implementation provides tunable error thresholds, making MLMC a promising candidate for application to larger and more complex molecular systems.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

DOE OSTI2025

Testing Capabilities for Superconducting Magnets at Fermilab

This presentation will focus on the current testing capabilities for superconducting magnets at Fermilab, highlighting existing systems, recent upgrades, and future plans. The Vertical Magnet Test Facility (VMTF) remains a cornerstone for testing superconducting magnets in R&D applications, maintaining its established capabilities. Stand 4 continues to support the Hi-Lumi AUP production line of magnets in cryostats and has achieved significant improvements through a redesign of lead connections, resolving issues with liquid helium levels and resistance, culminating in a successful endurance test without interruption. Similarly, Stand 7 underwent commissioning and a lead redesign to reduce heat load, while its core testing capabilities remain unchanged. Looking forward, Stand 3 is undergoing a redesign, with plans to restart and begin commissioning by the end of 2025, introducing new features such as background magnetic field testing and upgraded power supplies. Fermilab is also advancing the High Field Vertical Magnet Test Facility (HFVMTF), designed to support the fusion and magnet R&D program, with commissioning scheduled for 2025 and critical components, including the cryostat and power supplies, being delivered. Enhancing all operations, the newly commissioned IB1 cryoplant now offers automated overnight helium production and efficient transfer to a 10,000-liter dewar, streamlining support across all test stands. This talk will provide a comprehensive overview of testing capabilities, and showcasing how Fermilab is advancing its capabilities to meet the evolving demands of superconducting magnet testing.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

DOE OSTI2025

Review of High‐Speed Digital Image Correlation: Advancements and Good Practices

This paper reviews the current state of the art in high‐speed (HS) and ultrahigh‐speed (UHS) digital image correlation (DIC) techniques, emphasizing their critical role in experimental research across various scientific domains. HS and UHS DIC have evolved significantly, driven by advancements in camera systems, image processing algorithms and experimental methodologies. These developments have opened new avenues for capturing and analysing dynamic events with unprecedented temporal and spatial detail, but not without introducing challenges such as optical distortions, motion blur and lighting issues that can affect measurement quality. This review advocates for standardized reporting practices in HS/UHS DIC methodologies to improve reproducibility and reliability across studies, drawing on guidelines from the International Digital Image Correlation Society (iDICs). Through a comprehensive analysis of over 150 articles, this review identifies key advancements in imaging technology and their application in six research domains: material characterization, test development, fracture mechanics, model validation, ballistic and explosive phenomena assessment and measurement uncertainties. Distinctions between two‐dimensional (2D) and stereo‐DIC applications are explored, offering insights into their practical implementation and trade‐offs. Good practices for HS/UHS DIC applications are proposed along with suggestions for future directions for this evolving field, highlighting the indispensable role of technological innovation in expanding the capabilities of optical metrology.

experimental mechanics↗