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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 505 records · Page 28

The Cell Utilized Partitioning Model as a Predictive Tool for Optimizing Counter-Current Chromatography Processes

Counter-current chromatography (CCC) is capable of unique elution modes that isolate analytes using the movement of the stationary phase in addition to moving the mobile phase. These modes include elution-extrusion CCC (EECCC) and dual-mode CCC (DM CCC) that are not possible in traditional solid-liquid chromatography systems. Although EECCC and DM CCC are widely used to recover highly retained components, to our knowledge, optimizing the elution process in these modes with predictive models has not been reported. To address this gap, we developed a predictive model for CCC dubbed the Cell Utilized Partitioning (CUP) model. The CUP model accurately predicts the effluents of multicomponent separations in EECCC and DM CCC modes when compared to experimental data. Furthermore, CUP model simulations were extended to investigate the influence of operating and intrinsic parameters on the yield and productivity, and to compare the separation performances of EECCC and DM CCC in various conditions. The results demonstrate that low distribution constants, usually a KD less than 1, and a selectivity > 1.3, under specific flowrate ranges, increase both productivity and yield. From these results, generalized optimization and scaleup guidelines are proposed that can apply to research settings and to industrial processes to maximize preparative CCC performance.

BIOMASS FUELS,INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND AN↗

Resilience Framework for Electric Energy Delivery Systems (R.1)

The intent of this document is to provide a Resilience Framework for electrical energy delivery systems which can be applied to Distributed Wind. However, the framework is not limited by application to any resource or system. This framework represents the defined steps to a cyclical process similar in mechanism to both cybersecurity and risk frameworks, while providing a common set of language and process for all stakeholders involved. The need for this Resilience Framework was established in a previous document, “Distributed Wind Resilience Metrics for Electric Energy Delivery Systems.” One important characteristic we see in resilience is the unique needs and perspectives of different systems, geographies, resources, stakeholders, perceived risks, and consequences, which we term the distinctiveness property. This distinctiveness property drives the requirement to have a resilience framework or methodology that can be implemented by different types of organizations and systems. The process or methodology should be cyclic. Recognizing that a system’s resilience is based on finite resources and time, it must continually evolve through this framework’s risk management and capital investment steps at an appropriate pace for its distinctiveness property.

17 WIND ENERGY↗

Using Change Models to Envision Better Applications of Animal Behavior Research in Conservation Management and Beyond

While most animal behavior researchers have mastered the process of knowledge creation, generating knowledge that can readily be applied requires a different set of skills. The process and timeframe of fundamental scientific knowledge production is often not relevant to those who might apply it, such as conservation or wildlife managers. Additionally, the complex challenges that policy makers, managers and practitioners face are often not adequately communicated to and among scientists. This mutual disconnect in discourse, relationships, common terms, and practices is especially apparent when animal behavior researchers seek to have applied impact. We argue that bridging the complex implementation gap in animal behavior requires a formalized vision for change. We turn to change model theory, a tool commonly used in other fields for identifying the links between actions and outcomes necessary for enacting large-scale change. We focus on the subfield of conservation behavior with a change model that outlines specific ways to improve collaboration and coordination between animal behavior science and conservation practice. We present this targeted change model, review each strategy the model outlines, and highlight pressing actions that people from various career stages and backgrounds can take. We encourage researchers to further the alignment of science with management needs by developing the proper communication mechanisms for improved cultural exchange and plan future change model efforts directly targeting managers. Beyond the conservation behavior change model we present, we also discuss the broad applicability of change models to enhance the application of academic research to other fields. Fundamental science researchers are increasingly required to show impact of their work on society; the change model process we describe here can enable further impact.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Verification and validation of developed short-term forecasting models

Recent advancements in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies provide an opportunity for leveraging data-driven algorithms to predict future nuclear power plant (NPP) operating conditions by using recorded plant process data. Successfully implementing these models can lead to cost-reducing, conditioned-based predictive maintenance through optimized maintenance schedules and a reduction of unnecessary maintenance activities. This report discusses the verification and validation of short-term forecasting processes (i.e., data cleaning, feature selection, model optimization, and forecasting) developed in previous reports. The verification and validation (V&V) process demonstrates the expected precision and accuracy when the ML model encounters new datasets from different systems. Shapley additive explanations were used as the primary means of feature selection across these different data set. Individual models were trained for each data set, then validated through a cross-validation procedure. In this report, two different ML models were tasked to predict variables from three different plant process data sets with varying prediction horizons. The results indicate that support vector regression (SVR) outperformed long short-term memory (LSTM) neural networks in regard to each data set and each prediction horizon in this study, but further tuning and optimization could improve long short-term memory results. However, each forecasting model showed reduced performance as the prediction horizon was extended from 1 hour to 1 day ahead. Research is ongoing to evaluate the optimal input variable space, which is based on a given set of process parameters, to further improve forecasting accuracy.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Defining Golden Batches in Biomanufacturing Processes From Internal Metabolic Activity to Detect Process Changes That May Affect Product Quality

ABSTRACT Cellular metabolism plays a role in the observed variability of a drug substance's Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) made by biomanufacturing processes. Therefore, here we describe a new approach for monitoring biomanufacturing processes that measures a set of metabolic reaction rates (named Critical Metabolic Parameters (CMP) in addition to the macroscopic process conditions currently being used as Critical Process Parameters (CPP) for biomanufacturing. Constraint‐based systems biology models like Flux Balance Analysis (FBA) are used to estimate metabolic reaction rates, and metabolic rates are used as inputs for multivariate Batch Evolution Models (BEM). Metabolic activity was reproducible among batches and could be monitored to detect a deliberately induced macroscopic process shift (i.e., temperature change). The CMP approach has the potential to enable “golden batches” in biomanufacturing processes to be defined from the internal metabolic activity and to aid in detecting process changes that may impact the quality of the product. Overall, the data suggested that monitoring of metabolic activity has promise for biomanufacturing process control.

Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology↗

Preliminary data processing system for telemetry data from Interkosmos-8 type satellites

The preliminary data processing system (PDPS), a set of algorithms, programs, equipment, data storage and memory devices, and all devices controlling the processing, is described using the Intercosmos-8 satellite as an example. Each stage of the system is considered along with its content and sequence. The essential elements of the data processing structure are described and the concepts underlying the selection of these elements are discussed.

Vilchinskaya, A. S.↗

A machine-learning-driven data labeling pipeline for scientific analysis in MLExchange

This study introduces a novel labeling pipeline to accelerate the labeling process of scientific data sets by using artificial intelligence (AI)-guided tagging techniques. This pipeline includes a set of interconnected web-based graphical user interfaces (GUIs), where Data Clinic and MLCoach enable the preparation of machine learning (ML) models for data reduction and classification, respectively, while Label Maker is used for label assignment. Throughout this pipeline, data can be accessed through a direct connection to a file system or through Tiled for access through Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). Our experimental results present three use cases where this labeling pipeline has been instrumental for the study of large X-ray scattering data sets in the area of pattern recognition, the remote analysis of resonant soft X-ray scattering data and the fine-tuning process of foundation models. These use cases highlight the labeling capabilities of this pipeline, including the ability to label large data sets in a short period of time, to perform remote data analysis while minimizing data movement and to enhance the fine-tuning process of complex ML models with human involvement.

Chavez, Tanny (ORCID:0000000193172896)↗

Data Processing And Machine Learning Methods For Multi-Modal Operator State Classification Systems

This document is intended as an introduction to a set of common signal processing learning methods that may be used in the software portion of a functional crew state monitoring system. This includes overviews of both the theory of the methods involved, as well as examples of implementation. Practical considerations are discussed for implementing modular, flexible, and scalable processing and classification software for a multi-modal, multi-channel monitoring system. Example source code is also given for all of the discussed processing and classification methods.

Machine learning↗

Groundwater sapping channels: Summary of effects of experiments with varied stratigraphy

Experiments in the recirculating flume sapping box have modeled valley formation by groundwater sapping processes in a number of settings. The effects of the following parameters on sapping channel morphology were examined: surface slope; stratigraphic variations in permeability cohesion and dip; and structure of joints and dikes. These kinds of modeling experiments are particularly good for: testing concepts; developing a suite of distinctive morphologies and morphometries indicative of sapping; helping to relate process to morphology; and providing data necessary to assess the relative importance of runoff, sapping, and mass wasting processes on channel development. The observations from the flume systems can be used to help interpret features observed in terrestrial and Martian settings where sapping processes are thought to have played an important role in the development of valley networks.

Kochel, R. Craig↗

Remote Earth Sciences data collection using ACTS

Given the focus on global change and the attendant scope of such research, we anticipate significant growth of requirements for investigator interaction, processing system capabilities, and availability of data sets. The increased complexity of global processes requires interdisciplinary teams to address them; the investigators will need to interact on a regular basis; however, it is unlikely that a single institution will house sufficient investigators with the required breadth of skills. The complexity of the computations may also require resources beyond those located within a single institution; this lack of sufficient computational resources leads to a distributed system located at geographically dispersed institutions. Finally the combination of long term data sets like the Pathfinder datasets and the data to be gathered by new generations of satellites such as SeaWiFS and MODIS-N yield extra-ordinarily large amounts of data. All of these factors combine to increase demands on the communications facilities available; the demands are generating requirements for highly flexible, high capacity networks. We have been examining the applicability of the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) to address the scientific, computational, and, primarily, communications questions resulting from global change research. As part of this effort three scenarios for oceanographic use of ACTS have been developed; a full discussion of this is contained in Appendix B.

Evans, Robert H.↗

A Theoretical Approach for Reliability Within Information Supply Chains With Cycles and Negations

Complex networks of information processing systems, or information supply chains, present challenges for performance analysis. Here, we establish a mathematical setting, in which a process within an information supply chain can be analyzed in terms of the functionality of the system’s components. Principles of this methodology are rigorously defended and induce a model for determining the reliability for the various products in these networks. Our model does not limit us from having cycles in the network, as long as the cycles do not contain negation. It is shown that our approach to reliability resolves the nonuniqueness caused by cycles in a probabilistic Boolean network. An iterative algorithm is given to find the reliability values of the model, using a process that can be fully automated. This automated method of discerning reliability is beneficial for systems managers. As a systems manager considers systems modification, such as the replacement of owned and maintained hardware systems with cloud computing resources, the need for comparative analysis of system reliability is paramount. The model is extended to handle conditional knowledge about the network, allowing one to make predictions of weaknesses in the system. Finally, to illustrate the model’s flexibility over different forms, it is demonstrated on a system of components and subcomponents.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Catalytic Upgrading of Carbohydrates in Waste Streams to Hydrocarbons: Paper Sludge to Fuel Project (PStF)

This research, funded by the Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office (DOE BETO), aims to understand the barriers and assess opportunities for transforming carbohydrates in paper sludge, a solid lignocellulosic residue from the pulp and paper industry. The goal is to turn the paper sludge into a liquid hydrocarbon product that can be blended into jet fuel, both economically and sustainably. Research groups at North Carolina State University, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Yale University collaborated synergistically, leveraging their expertise in pulp and paper operations, biomass deconstruction, and catalytic upgrading to propose a pathway that efficiently captures the energy in paper sludge. Findings from this study could potentially contribute to advancing biomass conversion technologies, aligning with the efforts of the U.S. DOE BETO. This report documents the experimental and simulation results of a biochemical and catalytic pathway designed to transform paper sludge into a liquid hydrocarbon product. The process involves a sequence of seven steps, including ash removal, carbohydrate enzymatic hydrolysis, sugar dehydration, solvent recovery, aldol-condensation between furans and ketone, hydrogenation, and hydrodeoxygenation to obtain a hydrocarbon blend in the ~C10 range. The experimental efforts from the initiation of the project were guided by techno-economic analysis (TEA) and sensitivity analysis results including around seventy-eight operational parameters. This methodology facilitated the efficient use of resources over time. This study relies on detailed process simulations and TEA to determine the minimum fuel selling price (MFSP) for the hydrocarbon fuel product. Preliminary TEA results led to the evaluation of eight case studies considering alternative dehydration co-solvents, operational settings, and biorefinery layouts. Finally, the life cycle assessment of twenty-eight scenarios, comparing various dehydration co-solvents, fuel sources, chemical feedstock sources, side product utilization, and other process settings, was conducted. Landfilling scenarios with and without landfill gas recovery were also estimated, analyzed, and compared.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗

Image registration system in the Landsat-D production environment

It is the purpose of the considered system to take pieces of imagery, called control point chips (CPC), whose geodetic location has been previously determined and stored, and locate their position in later imagery of the same area. The registration processes are carried out partially on a DEC VAX 780 computer and partially on a Floating Point Systems Array Processor. Typically sets of 20 control points are processed at a time. To process these as sets, and to optimize the use of both machines, operations are grouped into loops instead of a sequential processing for each point. Attention is given to cloud cover assessment, enhancement, correlation techniques, pixel registration, and subpixel registration.

Kiss, P.↗

Gear Durability Shown To Be Improved by Superfinishing

Gears, bearings, and similar mechanical elements transmit loads through contacting surfaces. At the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field, we postulated that the fatigue lives of gears could be improved by providing smoother tooth surfaces. A superfinishing process was applied to a set of conventionally ground, aerospace-quality gears. This process produced a highly polished, mirrorlike surface as shown in the preceding photograph. The surface fatigue lives of both superfinished and conventionally ground gears were measured by experiments. The superfinished gears survived about four times longer than the conventionally ground gears. These superfinished gears were produced from conventionally ground, aerospace-quality gears whose geometry had been inspected. The gears were superfinished by placing them in a vibrating bath consisting of water, detergent, abrasive powder, and small pieces of zinc. Upon removal from the bath, the surfaces were highly polished, as depicted in the preceding photograph. The gears were again inspected, and dimensional measurements made before and after the superfinishing operation were compared. Superfinishing removed the peaks of the grinding marks and left a much smoother surface. Profile and spacing checks proved that the overall gear tooth shape was not affected in any harmful way. Superfinishing uniformly removed approximately 2.5 microns from each surface.

Krautz, Timothy L.↗

A Proactive and Top-Down Approach to Managing Risk at NASA

Our ultimate goal is to manage risk in a holistic and coherent fashion across the Agency: a) The RIDM process is intended to risk-inform direction-setting decisions. c) The CRM process is intended to manage risk associated with the implementation of baseline performance requirements. Currently we are working on: a) Enhancements to the CRM process. b) Better integration of the RIDM and CRM processes. c) Better integration of institutional risk considerations into RM framework.

Dezfuli, Homayoon↗

Enhanced Sustainability in Treatment of Contaminated Metals for Clearance and Recycling - 20290

Cyclife Sweden AB has, for more than 30 years, provided metal treatment services to the domestic and international nuclear industry with the aim of creating value through metal clearance and recycling. These operations are to a large extent based on the concept that the materials, after pre-treatment, including decontamination, will be melted for clearance. During the melting process, some nuclides separate from the metal while the remaining radioactivity becomes fully homogenized in the metal bath and the resulting ingots, along with the samples taken before casting At a time when activities to fight Climate Challenge are in focus, any savings in energy consumption, in addition to the positive environmental effect of recycling metals back to industry, is more than welcome. If the clearance of certain metallic items can be achieved safely, without using melting, it is the environmentally preferred option provided it carries a reasonable cost. It is even better if an object can go through a decontamination and clearance process prior to re-use inside or outside the nuclear sector. Cyclife Sweden is currently investing in a direct clearance process, to be operated in parallel with the melting process. This new process is expected to be fully operational in the late summer of 2020 and includes pre-treatment, decontamination and heavily shielded clearance measurement installations. The treatment will also allow clearance measurements of larger objects without the need for segmentation, along with allowing objects composed of different materials, like electric motors can be accepted for treatment. This paper gives an overview of the circular economy aspects in a nuclear back-end context, the Cyclife approach to further implement a circular economy approach in the processes, Material Acceptance Criteria for treatment, the facility set-up for the new process and how the melting route and the direct route can be combined in an efficient industrial scale process. To put the new capabilities into perspective, the two different treatment and clearance approaches, i.e. direct clearance and melting, are to be compared. (authors)

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

Crystal dissolution by particle detachment

Crystal dissolution, which is a fundamental process in both natural and technological settings, has been predominately viewed as a process of ion-by-ion detachment into a surrounding solvent. Here we report a mechanism of dissolution by particle detachment (DPD) that dominates in mesocrystals formed via crystallization by particle attachment (CPA). Using liquid phase electron microscopy to directly observe dissolution of hematite crystals — both compact rhombohedra and mesocrystals of coaligned nanoparticles — we find that the mesocrystals evolve into branched structures, which disintegrate as individual sub-particles detach. The resulting dissolution rates far exceed those for equivalent masses of compact single crystals. Applying a numerical generalization of the Gibbs-Thomson effect, we show that the physical drivers of DPD are curvature and strain inherently tied to the original CPA process. Based on the generality of the model, we anticipate that DPD is widespread for both natural minerals and synthetic crystals formed via CPA.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

TESS Data Release Notes:Reprocessing of Sectors 14–19, DR30 & DR33

TESS data release 30 (DR30) provides reprocessed data products of Sector 14 to 19. The updated data products were generated using version 4.0 of the science processing pipeline and conform to the final set of data anomaly flags defined over the last two years of TESS data analysis and pipeline development. Data release 33 (DR33) corresponds to a multisector search for transiting planets in the same reprocessed data. A detailed description of the changes in the data products in DR30 and DR33 is discussed in§2, and a brief list of changes is summarized here: The timestamps for 2 minute cadence and FFI data are more accurate. The differences between reprocessed data and previous data releases are less than 2.0 seconds in all cases. Photometric apertures were increased in size for targets with T mag<11. Three new Data Anomaly Flags were added to mitigate the effects of scattered light:–Cadences with strong scattered light signals or saturation effects that corrupt the calibration data are flagged and removed from analysis (bit 15, value 16384, “Bad Calibration Exclude”).–Scattered light data anomaly flags are customized for each target, and flagged automatically based on the local background level (bit 13, value 4096, ”Scattered light flag”).–Cadences with insufficient targets to derive cotrending basis vectors are flagged and the PDCSAP FLUX light curves are set to NULL at these times (bit 16, value 32768, “Insufficient Targets for Error Correction Exclude”). The planet search of the reprocessed light curves produced a different set of TCEs from the original processed data. Although there is a high degree of overlap between the original and reprocessed data (∼83% of targets produced TCEs in common), new TCEs were produced in DR30 and not every TCE from previous data releases was recovered. The same is true of the multisector search results from DR33 compared to DR28

TESS'↗