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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 523 records · Page 29
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1992

Ceramic component reliability with the restructured NASA/CARES computer program

The Ceramics Analysis and Reliability Evaluation of Structures (CARES) integrated design program on statistical fast fracture reliability and monolithic ceramic components is enhanced to include the use of a neutral data base, two-dimensional modeling, and variable problem size. The data base allows for the efficient transfer of element stresses, temperatures, and volumes/areas from the finite element output to the reliability analysis program. Elements are divided to insure a direct correspondence between the subelements and the Gaussian integration points. Two-dimensional modeling is accomplished by assessing the volume flaw reliability with shell elements. To demonstrate the improvements in the algorithm, example problems are selected from a round-robin conducted by WELFEP (WEakest Link failure probability prediction by Finite Element Postprocessors).

Powers, Lynn M.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Thermally Insulating Transparent Barrier (THINNER) coatings on single pane windows

Conventional silica aerogel monoliths can provide remarkable thermal insulation but the presence of large pores (> 30 nm) tends to scatter visible light and render the material opaque or translucent instead of transparent. In addition, they are prone to cracking during synthesis and handling which makes them difficult to integrate in products and in particular in window solutions. This project developed two new solgel synthesis methods using silica precursors or preformed silica nanoparticles and ambient drying to produce mesoporous organo-silica monoliths. The monoliths were (i) thermally insulating, (ii) optically transparent, (iii) flexible, and (iv) hydrophobic. They feature porosity ranging from 50% to 90% with narrow pore size distribution with pore less than 20 nm resulting in excellent optical clarity (haze < 2%) and very low thermal conductivity (< 30 mW/mK). Interestingly, not only porosity but also pore size and mass fractal dimension were found to affect the thermal conductivity of the mesoporous silica. The superior transparency of the monoliths was shown to be attributed to dependent scattering among silica nanoparticles. Flexibility was achieved through trimethylchlorosilane surface modification. Furthermore, process scale-up and integration of the ambigel monoliths into window solutions using optically clear adhesives were also demonstrated in 6”x6” double-pane windows. The aerogel and the window solution were shown to be durable to accelerated aging under UV, moisture, and/or temperature gradient and thermal cycling. Overall, the window solution achieved the technical performance and the cost target of $10/sqft set for the SHIELD program. However, scaling to industry relevant scale (> 10’x10’) remains a challenge due to requirements on the drying process and fume hood size and to the propensity of large aerogel slab to crack during drying.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2020

3D-ReG: A 3D ReRAM-based Heterogeneous Architecture for Training Deep Neural Networks

Deep neural network (DNN) models are being expanded to a broader range of applications. The computational capability of traditional hardware platforms cannot accommodate the growth of model complexity. Among recent technologies to accelerate DNN, resistive memory (ReRAM)-based processing-in-memory (PIM) emerged as a promising solution for DNN inference due to its high efficiency for matrix-based computation. We face two major technical challenges in extending the use of ReRAM-based accelerators for training: (1) full-precision data is essential in back-propagation; (2) the need to support both feed-forward and back-propagation aggravates the data-movement burden. We propose a heterogeneous architecture named as 3D-ReG, which leverages full-precision GPU to ensure training accuracy and low-overhead 3D integration to provide low-cost data movements. Moreover, we introduce conservative and aggressive task-mapping schemes, which partition the computation phases in different ways to balance execution efficiency and training accuracy. We evaluate 3D-ReG implemented with two 3D integration technologies, through-silicon vias (TSVs) and monolithic inter-tier vias (MIVs), and compare them with GPU-only and PIM-only counterparts. Various GPU-only platforms using two main-memory technologies (DRAM, ReRAM) and three interconnect technologies (2D, TSV, MIV) are evaluated as well. Experimental results show that 3D-ReG can achieve on average 5.64× training speedup and 3.56× higher energy efficiency compared with the GPU with DRAM as main memory, at the cost of 0.05%–3.39% accuracy drop. We define a new metric, gain-loss ratio (GLR), which quantitatively evaluates the capability of a DNN training hardware in terms of the model accuracy and hardware efficiency. The results of our comparison show that the aggressive task-mapping scheme on MIV-based 3D-ReG outperforms the other methods.

Computer Science↗
DOE OSTI2025

Enhanced biochemical sensing with high- Q transmission resonances in free-standing membrane metasurfaces

Optical metasurfaces provide solutions to label-free biochemical sensing by localizing light resonantly beyond the diffraction limit, thereby selectively enhancing light–matter interactions for improved analytical performance. However, high-Q resonances in metasurfaces are usually achieved in the reflection mode, which impedes metasurface integration into compact imaging systems. Here, we demonstrate a metasurface platform for advanced biochemical sensing based on the physics of the bound states in the continuum (BIC) and electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) modes, which arise when two interfering resonances from a periodic pattern of tilted elliptic holes overlap both spectrally and spatially, creating a narrow transparency window in the mid-infrared spectrum. We experimentally measure these resonant peaks observed in transmission mode (Q ~ 734 at λ ~ 8.8 µm) in free-standing silicon membranes and confirm their tunability through geometric scaling. We also demonstrate the strong coupling of the BIC-EIT modes with a thinly coated PMMA film on the metasurface, characterized by a large Rabi splitting (32 cm -1 ) and biosensing of protein monolayers in transmission mode. Our new photonic platform can facilitate the integration of metasurface biochemical sensors into compact and monolithic optical systems while being compatible with scalable manufacturing, thereby clearing the way for on-site biochemical sensing in everyday applications.

Rosas, Samir [Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison, WI (Uni↗
NASA NTRS1972

High-performance low-power CMOS memories using silicon-on-sapphire technology.

MOS/silicon-on-sapphire (SOS) technology is shown to permit the realization of large-scale integrated arrays that combine the best features of monolithic bipolar and MOS technologies. The perfect isolation and reduced capacitance of SOS technology make possible static MOS circuits with nearly an order-of-magnitude improvement in speed and dynamic power dissipation over their monolithic counterparts. CMOS/SOS memory arrays have been fabricated with speeds comparable to TTL bipolar memory arrays even when operated at TTL compatible levels. Quiescent power dissipation of two described arrays is typically less than 1 microwatt/bit. The SOS/MOS technology is compatible with both aluminum and self-aligned silicon-gate processing.

Boleky, E. J.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Stacked Metal Silicide/Silicon Far-Infrared Detectors

Selective doping of silicon in proposed metal silicide/silicon Schottky-barrier infrared photodetector increases maximum detectable wavelength. Stacking layers to form multiple Schottky barriers increases quantum efficiency of detector. Detectors of new type enhance capabilities of far-infrared imaging arrays. Grows by molecular-beam epitaxy on silicon waferscontaining very-large-scale integrated circuits. Imaging arrays of detectors made in monolithic units with image-preprocessing circuitry.

Maserjian, Joseph↗
NASA NTRS1997

Award-Winning CARES/Life Ceramics Durability Evaluation Software Is Making Advanced Technology Accessible

Products made from advanced ceramics show great promise for revolutionizing aerospace and terrestrial propulsion and power generation. However, ceramic components are difficult to design because brittle materials in general have widely varying strength values. The CARES/Life software developed at the NASA Lewis Research Center eases this by providing a tool that uses probabilistic reliability analysis techniques to optimize the design and manufacture of brittle material components. CARES/Life is an integrated package that predicts the probability of a monolithic ceramic component's failure as a function of its time in service. It couples commercial finite element programs--which resolve a component's temperature and stress distribution - with reliability evaluation and fracture mechanics routines for modeling strength - limiting defects. These routines are based on calculations of the probabilistic nature of the brittle material's strength.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1988

The role of power integrated circuits in lightweight spacecraft

This paper will present definitions for smart power and power integrated circuits and show how, for a typical planetary spacecraft power system, a 37 percent reduction in mass, 89 percent reduction in parts and a 50 percent reduction in volume can be attained. Also discussed are the technology needs for isolation, monolithic current sensing, and high efficiency switching necessary to enable monolithic power structures, as well as various applications of power integrated circuits. A specific example will verify the projected reductions expected when power integrated circuits are implemented in future spacecraft designs. In conclusion, power-integrated circuits can impact the overall design of the spacecraft in all subsystems, not just the power sybsystem.

Klein, John W.↗
NASA NTRS1993

A wide-band 760-GHz planar integrated Schottky receiver

A wideband planar integrated heterodyne receiver has been developed for use at submillimeter-wave to FIR frequencies. The receiver consists of a log-periodic antenna integrated with a planar 0.8-micron GaAs Schottky diode. The monolithic receiver is placed on a silicon lens and has a measured room temperature double side-band conversion loss and noise temperature of 14.9 +/- 1.0 dB and 8900 +/- 500 K, respectively, at 761 GHz. These results represent the best performance to date for room temperature integrated receivers at this frequency.

Gearhart, Steven S.↗
NASA NTRS1997

A monolithic bolometer array suitable for FIRST

The development of arrays of infrared bolometers that are suitable for use in the Far Infrared and Submillimeter Telescope (FIRST) mission is reported. The array architecture is based on the silicon nitride micromesh bolometer currently baselined for use in the case of the Planck mission. This architecture allows each pixel to be efficiently coupled to one or both polarizations and to one or more spatial models of radiation. Micromesh structures are currently being developed, coupled with transistor-edge sensors and read out by a SQUID amplifier. If these devices are successful, then the relatively large cooling power available at 300 mK may enable a SQUID-based multiplexer to be integrated on the same wafer as the array, creating a monolithic, fully multiplexed, 2D array with relatively few connections to the sub-Kelvin stage.

Bock, J. J.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Rapid Commissioning of Large Machine Tools Using Finite Element-Based Correction of Geometric Errors

Large computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools derive their stiffness from monolithic cast iron bases or weldments that are sometimes integral to machine motion systems like box ways or guideways. However, the sheer size of castings and even floor flatness deviations result in dimensional errors in these systems, which manifest as machine motion errors. Typical geometric alignment processes rely on an iterative approach, where measurements are taken to assess alignment (straightness, squareness, and parallelism), followed by adjustment of the machine supports (fixators or leveling pads), which can take weeks even for an experienced operator. Conversely, a novel method is proposed to shorten the correction time by eliminating the trial-and-error process in favor of a more deterministic approach guided by a finite element (FE) method. A feasibility study is conducted on a CNC polymer hybrid machine, with a steel weldment frame, supported by six leveling pads. An FE model of the frame is utilized to obtain recommended leveling pad adjustments, based on measurement of machine errors taken using a laser tracker. After a single adjustment cycle, measurements reveal that geometric errors of the machine tool are reduced from 2.22 mm of flatness deviation to 0.32 mm, achieving an 85.6% reduction. Furthermore, the entire process including measurement, adjustment, and assessment is completed in just 6 h by two operators who are not professional service engineers. In conclusion, this methodology demonstrates feasibility for scaling up, especially to large, high-precision CNC machine tools with bases mounted by fixators, offering the capability for bidirectional adjustment.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS1980

Solar cell system having alternating current output

A monolithic multijunction solar cell was modified by fabricating an integrated circuit inverter on the back of the cell to produce a device capable of generating an alternating current output. In another embodiment, integrated curcuit power conditioning electronics was incorporated in a module containing a solar cell power supply.

Evans, J. C., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Conducting a wind sensing study

Signal-to-noise requirements, and how signal-to-noise determines wind velocity measurement accuracy were studied. A Nd:YAG-based system was found to be competitive with a CO2-based system. Hardware was developed for a coherent Nd:YAG LIDAR system, and is being integrated into a functioning system. A diode-pumped monolithic rod laser to be used as a reference oscillator, a high-power, single-mode ring laser, for use as a master oscillator, and a high-gain, multipass amplifier were constructed.

Byer, R. L.↗
NASA NTRS2005

From Rockets to Racecars

NASA s Langley Research Center scientists developed a family of catalysts for low- temperature oxidation of carbon monoxide and other gases. The catalysts provide oxidation of both carbon monoxide and formaldehyde at room temperature without requiring any energy input, just a suitable flow of gas through them. Originally designed as part of an atmospheric satellite project, where the catalysts were intended to recycle and recapture carbon dioxide to enhance the operational life of carbon dioxide lasers, the entire system was made to be rugged, long-lived, and fail-safe. The low-temperature oxidation catalysts can be produced and coated onto various catalyst supports, including porous ceramic monoliths and beads, which means that they can be integrated into existing designs, made to fit in limited space, and fashioned into a variety of geometrically different products. Although the satellite project was never launched, the resulting catalysts are doing great things here on Earth, with current applications in the high-speed motor sports arena as air purifiers, so professional racecar drivers do not get carbon monoxide poisoning. Future benefits may extend even further.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS2020

Gateway Lunar Habitat Modules as the Basis for a Modular Mars Transit Habitat

This paper provides a summary of the results from a recent concept study of various configurations for a Mars Transit Habitat. The designs considered are composed of modules based on published contractor concepts proposed for the lunar Gateway through NASA’s NextSTEP program. Using these Gateway concepts as a starting point for the design of a Mars Transit Habitat has potential advantages. Both Gateway and Mars Transit Habitats will have similar requirements for long-term operations in deep space, autonomous and remote operations when the crew is not onboard, and similar requirements for transferring crew to and from a planetary surface—the Moon and Mars respectively. The contractor designs for Gateway were traded against a monolithic transit habitat previously proposed by NASA’s Mars Integration Group. In addition, these concepts were considered for a “shakedown” mission for the transit habitat hardware in cislunar space to build confidence in new systems, including the advanced environmental control and life support systems needed for Mars missions. The results presented include overall vehicle configurations, mass, and volume estimates for the selected design concepts. Two concepts using large expandable modules are identified as leading candidates for a Mars Transit Habitat and the remaining elements are identified as representative of the habitable pressure vessels needed for safe haven configurations, logistics modules, surface habitats, rovers, and descent and ascent crew cabins in the overall Mars Architecture.

Smitherman, David↗
NASA NTRS1995

Monolithically interconnected GaAs solar cells: A new interconnection technology for high voltage solar cell output

Photovoltaic linear concentrator arrays can benefit from high performance solar cell technologies being developed at AstroPower. Specifically, these are the integration of thin GaAs solar cell and epitaxial lateral overgrowth technologies with the application of monolithically interconnected solar cell (MISC) techniques. This MISC array has several advantages which make it ideal for space concentrator systems. These are high system voltage, reliable low cost monolithically formed interconnections, design flexibility, costs that are independent of array voltage, and low power loss from shorts, opens, and impact damage. This concentrator solar cell will incorporate the benefits of light trapping by growing the device active layers over a low-cost, simple, PECVD deposited silicon/silicon dioxide Bragg reflector. The high voltage-low current output results in minimal 12R losses while properly designing the device allows for minimal shading and resistance losses. It is possible to obtain open circuit voltages as high as 67 volts/cm of solar cell length with existing technology. The projected power density for the high performance device is 5 kW/m for an AMO efficiency of 26% at 1 5X. Concentrator solar cell arrays are necessary to meet the power requirements of specific mission platforms and can supply high voltage power for electric propulsion systems. It is anticipated that the high efficiency, GaAs monolithically interconnected linear concentrator solar cell array will enjoy widespread application for space based solar power needs. Additional applications include remote man-portable or ultra-light unmanned air vehicle (UAV) power supplies where high power per area, high radiation hardness and a high bus voltage or low bus current are important. The monolithic approach has a number of inherent advantages, including reduced cost per interconnect and increased reliability of array connections. There is also a high potential for a large number of consumer products. Dual-use applications can include battery chargers and remote power supplies for consumer electronics products such as portable telephones/beepers, portable radios, CD players, dashboard radar detectors, remote walkway lighting, etc.

Dinetta, L. C.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Design of Mini-Plate-1 Irradiation Test for Qualification of High-Density, Low-Enriched U-10Mo Monolithic Fuel

The United States High Performance Research Reactor project is tasked with fuel development and qualification leading to conversion of higher power research and test reactors in the US from high-enriched uranium (HEU) to low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuels. Here, this manuscript identifies the functional and operational design requirements of the first miniature test plate (mini-plate [MP]) irradiation campaign (MP-1) of commercially fabricated LEU U-10Mo monolithic plate-type fuel and is the precursor to a large parametric mini-plate test (MP-2) aimed at producing the data to support regulatory qualification of the LEU U-10Mo monolithic fuel. The manuscript (1) provides a general description of the selected U-10Mo LEU fuel and (2) defines the overall experiment design and functional requirements to accomplish the specific test objective of MP-1, which is to confirm that the commercially manufactured LEU U-10Mo monolithic fuel meets the established requirements of geometric stability, mechanical integrity and stable and predictable behavior. The fuel testing parameters are established by the need to bound performance behavior within the operational envelope of the reactors being converted.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗