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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 55 records · Page 3

nBn and pBp infrared detectors with graded barrier layer, graded absorption layer, or chirped strained layer super lattice absorption layer

An nBn detector is described where for some embodiments the barrier layer has a concentration gradient, for some embodiments the absorption layer has a concentration gradient, and for some embodiments the absorption layer is a chirped strained layer super lattice. The use of a graded barrier or absorption layer, or the use of a chirped strained layer super lattice for the absorption layer, allows for design of the energy bands so that the valence band may be aligned across the device. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Gunapala, Sarath D.↗

A Web Architecture to Geographically Interrogate CHIRPS Rainfall and eMODIS NDVI for Land Use Change

Monitoring of rainfall and vegetation over the continent of Africa is important for assessing the status of crop health and agriculture, along with long‐term changes in land use change. These issues can be addressed through examination of long‐term precipitation (rainfall) data sets and remote sensing of land surface vegetation and land use types. Two products have been used previously to address these goals: the Climate Hazard Group Infrared Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) rainfall data, and multi‐day composites of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from the USGS eMODIS product. Combined, these are very large data sets that require unique tools and architecture to facilitate a variety of data analysis methods or data exploration by the end user community. To address these needs, a web‐enabled system has been developed to allow end‐users to interrogate CHIRPS rainfall and eMODIS NDVI data over the continent of Africa. The architecture allows end‐users to use custom defined geometries, or the use of predefined political boundaries in their interrogation of the data. The massive amount of data interrogated by the system allows the end‐users with only a web browser to extract vital information in order to investigate land use change and its causes. The system can be used to generate daily, monthly and yearly averages over a geographical area and range of dates of interest to the user. It also provides analysis of trends in precipitation or vegetation change for times of interest. The data provided back to the end‐user is displayed in graphical form and can be exported for use in other, external tools. The development of this tool has significantly decreased the investment and requirements for end‐users to use these two important datasets, while also allowing the flexibility to the end‐user to limit the search to the area of interest.

Burks, Jason E.↗

Electromagnetic Chirps from Neutron Star-Black Hole Mergers

We calculate the electromagnetic signal of a gamma-ray flare coming from the surface of a neutron star shortly before merger with a black hole companion. Using a new version of the Monte Carlo radiation transport code Pandurata that incorporates dynamic spacetimes, we integrate photon geodesics from the neutron star surface until they reach a distant observer or are captured by the black hole. The gamma-ray light curve is modulated by a number of relativistic effects, including Doppler beaming and gravitational lensing. Because the photons originate from the inspiraling neutron star, the light curve closely resembles the corresponding gravitational waveform: a chirp signal characterized by a steadily increasing frequency and amplitude. We propose to search for these electromagnetic chirps using matched filtering algorithms similar to those used in LIGO data analysis.

gamma-ray burst↗

MTW-OPAL: a technology development platform for ultra-intense optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification systems

Optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification implemented using multikilojoule Nd:glass pump lasers is a promising approach for producing ultra-intense pulses (>10 23 W/cm 2 ). We report on the MTW-OPAL Laser System, an optical parametric amplifier line (OPAL) pumped by the Nd:doped portion of the multi-terawatt (MTW) laser. This midscale prototype was designed to produce 0.5-PW pulses with technologies scalable to tens of petawatts. Technology choices made for MTW-OPAL were guided by the longer-term goal of two full-scale OPALs pumped by the OMEGA EP to produce 2 × 25-PW beams that would be co-located with kilojoule–nanosecond ultraviolet beams. Several MTW-OPAL campaigns that have been completed since “first light” in March 2020 show that the laser design is fundamentally sound, and optimization continues as we prepare for “first-focus” campaigns later this year.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Extending the operation range of a phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometer by using fibre with chirped Bragg gratings

>A record long external-disturbance detection distance of 140 km without employing optical amplifiers in the fibre line is demonstrated by a phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometer (Φ-OTDR) using a fibre section with inscribed chirped fibre Bragg gratings (CFBGs). This solution provides simultaneous operation of Φ-OTDR with a standard single-mode fibre at a distance of up to 100 km and with a CFBG fibre section located from the fibre line input point by at least 140 km. (paper)

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Multiscale Chirping Modes Driven by Thermal Ions in a Plasma with Reactor-Relevant Ion Temperature

A thermal ion driven bursting instability with rapid frequency chirping, considered as an Alfv´enic ion temperature gradient mode, has been observed in plasmas having reactor-relevant temperature in the DIII-D tokamak. The modes are excited over a wide spatial range from macroscopic device size to micro-turbulence size and the perturbation energy propagates across multiple spatial scales. The radial mode structure is able to expand from local to global in ~ 0.1 ms and it causes magnetic topology changes in the plasma edge, which can lead to a minor disruption event. Since the mode is typically observed in the high ion temperature ≳ 10 keV and high-! plasma regime, the manifestation of the mode in future reactors should be studied with development of mitigation strategies, if needed. In conclusion, this is the first observation of destabilization of the Alfv´en continuum caused by the compressibility of ions with reactor-relevant ion temperature.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Femtosecond-Terawatt Hard X-Ray Pulse Generation with Chirped Pulse Amplification on a Free Electron Laser

Advances of high intensity lasers have opened up the field of strong field physics and led to a broad range of technological applications. Recent x ray laser sources and optics development makes it possible to obtain extremely high intensity and brightness at x ray wavelengths. In this paper, we present a system design that implements chirped pulse amplification for hard x ray free electron lasers. Numerical modeling with realistic experimental parameters show that near-transform-limit single-femtosecond hard x ray laser pulses with peak power exceeding 1 TW and brightness exceeding 4×10 35 s -1 mm -2 mrad -2 0.1\%bandwdith -1 can be consistently generated. In conclusion, realization of such beam qualities is essential for establishing systematic and quantitative understanding of strong field x-ray physics and nonlinear x ray optics phenomena.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Machine Learning Characterization of Alfvénic and Sub-Alfvénic Chirping and Correlation With Fast-Ion Loss at NSTX

Abrupt large events in the Alfvenic and sub-Alfvenic frequency bands in tokamaks are typically correlated with increased fast ion loss. Here, machine learning is used to speed up the laborious process of characterizing the behaviour of magnetic perturbations from corresponding frequency spectrograms that are typically identified by humans. Analysis allows for comparison between different mode character (such as quiescent, fixedfrequency, chirping, avalanching) and plasma parameters obtained from the TRANSP code such as the ratio of the neutral beam injection (NBI) velocity and the Alfven velocity (v inj. /v A ), the q-profile, and the ratio of the neutral beam beta and the total plasma beta (β beam,i /β). In agreement with previous work by Fredrickson et al., in this work, we find correlation between β beam,i and mode character. In addition, previously unknown correlations are found between moments of the spectrograms and mode character. Character transition from quiescent to non-quiescent behaviour for magnetic fluctuations in the 50 - 200 kHz frequency band is observed along the boundary v Φ ≲ (1/4) (v inj. - 3v A ) where v Φ is the rotation

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Machine Learning Characterization of Alfvénic and Sub-Alfvénic Chirping and Correlation With Fast-Ion Loss at NSTX

Abrupt large events in the Alfvenic and sub-Alfvenic frequency bands in tokamaks are typically correlated with increased fast-ion loss. Here, machine learning is used to speed up the laborious process of characterizing the behavior of magnetic perturbations from corresponding frequency spectrograms that are typically identified by humans. The analysis allows for comparison between different mode character (such as quiescent, fixed frequency, and chirping, avalanching) and plasma parameters obtained from the TRANSP code, such as the ratio of the neutral beam injection (NBI) velocity and the Alfven velocity (v_inj./v_A), the q-profile, and the ratio of the neutral beam beta and the total plasma beta (beta_beam,i / beta). In agreement with the previous work by Fredrickson et al., we find a correlation between beta_beam,i and mode character. In addition, previously unknown correlations are found between moments of the spectrograms and mode character. Character transition from quiescent to nonquiescent behavior for magnetic fluctuations in the 50200-kHz frequency band is observed along the boundary v_phi ~ (1/4)(v_inj. - 3v_A), where v_phi is the rotation velocity.

machine learning↗

Chirped-grating spectrometer-on-a-chip

We demonstrate an on-chip spectrometer readily integrable with CMOS electronics. The structure is comprised of a SiO 2 /Si 3 N 4 /SiO 2 waveguide atop a silicon substrate. A transversely chirped grating is fabricated, in a single-step optical lithography process, on a portion of the waveguide to provide angle and wavelength dependent coupling to the guided mode. The spectral and angular information is encoded in the spatial dependence of the grating period. A uniform pitch grating area, separated from the collection area by an unpatterned propagation region, provides the out-coupling to a CMOS detector array. A resolution of 0.3 nm at 633 nm with a spectral coverage tunable across the visible and NIR (to ∼ 1 µm limited by the Si photodetector) by changing the angle of incidence, is demonstrated without the need for any signal processing deconvolution. This on-chip spectrometer concept will cost effectively enable a broad range of applications that are beyond the reach of current integrated spectroscopic technologies.

Nezhadbadeh, Shima↗

Octave-spanning mid-infrared femtosecond OPA in a ZnGeP 2 pumped by a 2.4 μm Cr:ZnSe chirped-pulse amplifier

We report on the highly efficient, octave-spanning mid-infrared (mid-IR) optical parametric amplification (OPA) in a ZnGeP 2 (ZGP) crystal, pumped by a 1 kHz, 2.4 μm, 250 fs Cr:ZnSe chirped-pulse amplifier. The full spectral coverage of 3−10 μm with the amplified signal and idler beams is demonstrated. The signal beam in the range of ∼3 − 5 μm is produced by either white light generation (WLG) in YAG or optical parametric generation (OPG) in ZGP using the common 2.4 μm pump laser. We demonstrate the pump to signal and idler combined conversion efficiency of 23% and the pulse energy of up to 130 μJ with ∼2 μJ OPG seeding, while we obtain the efficiency of 10% and the pulse energy of 55 μJ with ∼0.2 μJ WLG seeding. The OPA output energy is limited by the available pump pulse energy (0.55 mJ at ZGP crystal) and therefore further energy scaling is feasible with multi-stage OPA and higher pump pulse energy. The autocorrelation measurements based on random quasi-phase matching show that the signal pulse durations are ∼318 fs and ∼330 fs with WLG and OPG seeding, respectively. In addition, we show the spectrally filtered 30 μJ OPA output at 4.15 μm suitable for seeding a Fe:ZnSe amplifier. Our ultrabroadband femtosecond mid-IR source is attractive for various applications, such as strong-field interactions, dielectric laser electron acceleration, molecular spectroscopy, and medical surgery.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Achieving 100 GW idler pulses from an existing petawatt optical parametric chirped pulse amplifier

Optical parametric chirped-pulse-amplification produces two broadband pulses, a signal and an idler, that can both provide peak powers >100 GW. In most cases the signal is used, but compressing the longer-wavelength idler opens up opportunities for experiments where the driving laser wavelength is a key parameter. This paper will describe several subsystems that were added to a petawatt class, Multi-Terawatt optical parametric amplifier line (MTW-OPAL) at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics to address two long-standing issues introduced by the use of the idler, angular dispersion, and spectral phase reversal. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that compensation of angular dispersion and phase reversal has been achieved in a single system and results in a 100 GW, 120-fs duration, pulse at 1170 nm.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy for spectroscopic chemical sensing with simultaneous range detection

Spectroscopic chemical detection requires knowledge or determination of an optical path for accurate quantification of path-integrated concentration of species. Continuous- wave-laser-based spectroscopic systems operating in an open integrated-path remote sensing configuration are usually not equipped for optical path determination. Here we demonstrate a measurement technique capable of simultaneous spectroscopic chemical quantification and range finding. Here, the range-finding functionality is implemented with chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy. The methodology is potentially useful for remote chemical sensing in a hard-target LIDAR configuration and for automatic calibration of gas cells with unknown or varying lengths.

03 NATURAL GAS↗

Fugitive methane detection using open-path stand-off chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy

We report an open-path chirped laser dispersion spectrometer capable of detecting the atmospheric methane concentration above the background using both specular and diffusive reflective surfaces via two distinct operation modes in a stand-off detection configuration. The system is integrated with simultaneous ranging functionality, which enables average concentration measurements for varying optical pathlengths. The system was first tested for accuracy and characterized to achieve sensitivity of 2.9 p p m - m / H z 1 / 2 and pathlength precision of 0.2 m / H z 1 / 2 with a controlled release of methane outside the laboratory. The instrument was subsequently field-deployed in the proximity of a natural gas compressor station for fugitive methane detection. The instrument successfully detected methane plumes and narrowed down the location of the plume through multi-path measurement. The field measurements were verified by a co-located reference mobile methane sensor.

Chen, Yifeng↗

Single-shot spatiotemporal plasma density measurements with a chirped probe pulse

In this work, we present the development and demonstration of a diagnostic for the measurement of the spatial and temporal evolution of plasma density in a single shot. Single-shot Advanced Plasma Probe HolographIc REconstruction (SAPPHIRE) utilizes a chirped probe pulse, a diffractive optical element, a self-referenced interferometer, and an interference bandpass filter to achieve high-fidelity electron density measurements suitable for underdense plasmas that exhibit cylindrical symmetry. The method overcomes limitations in conventional diagnostics, such as reliance on shot-to-shot reproducibility, while capturing plasma dynamics on picosecond timescales with micron-level spatial resolution. The capabilities of SAPPHIRE are demonstrated through measurements of laser-driven plasma channels in helium–nitrogen gas jets. SAPPHIRE demonstrates the formation and expansion of plasma channels in a single shot and the propagation of supersonic ionization fronts while revealing shot-to-shot variations in the plasma profiles. Experimental results are validated against theoretical models and scaling laws, underscoring the robustness and accuracy of this technique. By enabling ultrafast, high-resolution plasma diagnostics in a single exposure, SAPPHIRE represents a transformative advancement in plasma measurement technology.

Grace, Elizabeth S. [Lawrence Livermore National L↗

Remote methane sensor for emissions from pipelines and compressor stations using chirped-laser dispersion spectroscopy

Leak rates of methane (CH 4 ) from the natural gas supply chain result in lost profit from unsold product, public safety and property concerns due to potential explosion hazards, and a potentially large source of economic damages from legal liabilities. Yet large measurement challenges exist in identifying and quantifying CH 4 leak rates along the vast number and type of components in the natural gas supply chain. This is particularly true of the “midstream” components involved in the gathering, processing, compression, transmission, and storage of natural gas. This project developed and deployed new advances in chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy (CLaDS) to detect methane leaks from pipelines, compressor stations, and other midstream infrastructure from a remote position (standoff detection). The system was deployed from a van to measure fugitive methane leaks from a local compressor station as a proof-of-concept. The technique was validated through mobile laboratory measurements with in-situ sensors as well as controlled releases of methane. The system also mapped a plume from a controlled release of methane by tracking a small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) that carried a corner cube retroreflector which reflected the beam back to the instrument. The drone-based system quantified a leak rate to within 30% of the actual rate and localized the emission location within 5 m of the actual release location at standoff distances of 25-45 m. This sUAS-reflector tracking approach has benefits for mapping leak locations remotely using small drones flying around a facility. Benefits of a commercial sensor with these capabilities include reductions of leaks for pipeline operators (more profit), earlier detection of leaks to avoid catastrophic explosion hazards for public health and to mitigate property damage, and reduced methane emissions to the atmosphere (improving air quality).

03 NATURAL GAS↗

Effect of saturated frequency chirping on mode-locked laser pulses.

A dye-induced nonlinear frequency chirping is analytically shown to have significant modifications on the nature of the output mode-locked lasers. It is shown that the saturated frequency sweeping is responsible for substantial pulse broadening as well as substructures.

Kim, D. M.↗

Mathematical models for the reflection coefficients of lossy dielectric half-spaces with application to transient responses of chirped pulses

Reflection coefficients are found at normal incidence for a large class of homogeneous lossy half-spaces with a one-dimensionally inhomogeneous or stratified lossy layer on top. Solutions are in terms of Hankel functions of complex argument to decrease cancellation error at high frequencies. One special case is that of layers on a homogeneous half-space where the dielectric constant in each layer may vary in a quite general manner. A Wronskian is used to insure the critical computations are correct. The reflection of chirped pulses is considered. Solutions are obtained by applying the fast Fourier transform. It is found that for a typical relatively long normalized 'long' pulse the power reflected as a function of time is essentially the power reflection coefficient for the frequencies swept out, whereas for a relatively short 'long' pulse, with the same relative change in frequency and the same number of oscillations there is only the uniform attenuation by the power reflection coefficient of the center frequency. By a 'long' pulse we mean a pulse whose spatial length is long compared to the thickness of the reflecting layer.

Evans, D. D.↗