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DOE OSTI2017

Alfvén eigenmode evolution computed with the VENUS and KINX codes for the ITER baseline scenario

A new application of the VENUS code is described, which computes alpha particle orbits in the perturbed electromagnetic fields and its resonant interaction with the toroidal Alfvén eigenmodes (TAEs) for the ITER device. The ITER baseline scenario with Q = 10 and the plasma toroidal current of 15 MA is considered as the most important and relevant for the International Tokamak Physics Activity group on energetic particles (ITPA-EP). For this scenario, typical unstable TAE-modes with the toroidal index n = 20 have been predicted that are localized in the plasma core near the surface with safety factor q = 1. The spatial structure of ballooning and antiballooning modes has been computed with the ideal MHD code KINX. The linear growth rates and the saturation levels taking into account the damping effects and the different mode frequencies have been calculated with the VENUS code for both ballooning and antiballooning TAE-modes.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

DOE OSTI2012

ADRIANA project: Identification of research infrastructures for the SFR, within the frame of European industrial initiative for sustainable nuclear fission

Fast neutron reactors have a large potential as sustainable energy source. In particular, Sodium Fast Reactors (SFR) with a closed fuel cycle and potential for minor actinide burning may allow minimization of volume and heat load of high level waste and provide improved use of natural resources (as compared to only 1% energy recovery in the current once-through fuel cycle, with Thermal Reactors, such as EPR). The coordinating action ADRIANA (Advanced Reactor Initiative And Network Arrangement) has been initiated to set up a network dedicated to the construction and operation of research infrastructures in support of developments for the European Industrial Initiative for sustainable nuclear fission. The Project sets these objectives for the following reactor systems and related technologies: Sodium Fast Reactor (SFR), Lead Fast Reactor (LFR), Gas Fast Reactor (GFR, including very high temperature technologies), Instrumentation, diagnostics and experimental devices, Irradiation facilities and hot laboratories, Zero power reactors. Among the fast reactor systems, the sodium cooled reactor has the most comprehensive technological basis as result of the experience gained from worldwide operation of several experimental, prototype and commercial size reactors, since the forties (see Appendix I). This concept is currently considered as the reference, within the European strategy. Innovations are needed to further enhance safety, reduce capital cost and improve efficiency reliability and operability, making the Generation IV SFR an attractive option for electricity production. Currently, in France, a moderate (500 to 600 MWe) power demonstrator named ASTRID (Advanced Sodium Test Reactor for Industrial Demonstration) has been proposed and endorsed by EU. Presently, the reference configuration is a pool concept. General R and D needs have been identified and experimental facilities required to satisfy these needs have been listed for the following domains: material and coolant, thermal-hydraulics and safety, severe accidents, systems and components validation, instrumentation and Education and Training. Then, the contributors have detailed the different types of experimental facilities, existing as well as lacking facilities. A ranking procedure of the facilities has been carried out, then a list of priorities and a road-map for investment has been established. (authors)

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

DOE OSTI2019

In-Vehicle Assessment of Human Exposure to EMFs from 25-kW WPT System Based on Near-Field Analysis

Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology has the potential to be a convenient and reliable charging method for the light and heavy duty electric vehicles. However, the loosely coupling between the two sides results in strong near-electromagnetic fields (EMFs) around the system, which may have the possibility to impact human safety if the standard limits are exceeded. Therefore, comprehensive tests are necessary to ensure the electromagnetic fields are with in safe limits. Consequently, this paper presents a test methodology for the near-field from a 25 kW WPT system from Momentum Dynamics, which is installed in a heavy duty electric shuttle at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The paper describes in detail the measuring device, test setup and conditions. The misalignments between the two systems' sides are considered during the measurements. Test results for the regions of concern around and inside the bus are presented and compared with the reference levels defined by the international standards, including ICNIRP 2010 and IEEE C95.1. In addition, a finite-element model is developed for the wireless coupler and analyzed at the same conditions as the tests. Comparative analysis is presented between the simulated and experimental results. The measurements at the test points show adherence to the standard limits for the general public and occupational exposure.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

DOE OSTI2018

In-Vehicle Assessment of Human Exposure to EMFs from 25-kW WPT System Based on Near-Field Analysis: Preprint

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

DOE OSTI2019

In-Vehicle Assessment of Human Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields from 25-kW Wireless Power Transfer System Based on Near-Field Analysis

Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology has the potential to be a convenient and reliable charging method for the light and heavy duty electric vehicles. However, the loose coupling between the two sides results in strong near-electromagnetic fields (EMFs) around the system, which may have the possibility to impact human safety if the standard limits are exceeded. Therefore, comprehensive tests are necessary to ensure the electromagnetic fields are with in safe limits. This paper presents a test methodology for the near-field from a 25-kW WPT system from Momentum Dynamics, which is installed in a heavy-duty electric shuttle at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The paper describes in detail the measuring device, test setup, and conditions.

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION↗

DOE OSTI2016

Tritium Plasma Experiment Upgrade and Improvement of Surface Diagnostic Capabilities at STAR Facility for Enhancing Tritium and Nuclear PMI Sciences

The Tritium Plasma Experiment (TPE) is a unique high-flux linear plasma device that can handle beryllium, tritium, and neutron-irradiated plasma facing materials, and is the only existing device dedicated to directly study tritium retention and permeation in neutron-irradiated materials with tritium [M. Shimada et.al., Rev. Sci. Instru. 82 (2011) 083503 and and M. Shimada, et.al., Nucl. Fusion 55 (2015) 013008]. The plasma-material-interaction (PMI) determines a boundary condition for diffusing tritium into bulk PFCs, and the tritium PMI is crucial for enhancing fundamental sciences that dictate tritium fuel cycles and safety and are high importance to an FNSF and DEMO. Recently the TPE has undergone major upgrades in its electrical and control systems. New DC power supplies and a new control center enable remote plasma operations from outside of the contamination area for tritium, minimizing the possible exposure risk with tritium and beryllium. We discuss the electrical upgrade, enhanced operational safety, improved plasma performance, and development of optical spectrometer system. This upgrade not only improves operational safety of the worker, but also enhances plasma performance to better simulate extreme plasma-material conditions expected in ITER, Fusion Nuclear Science Facility (FNSF), and Demonstration reactor (DEMO). This work was prepared for the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Fusion Energy Sciences, under the DOE Idaho Field Office contract number DE-AC07-05ID14517.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

DOE OSTI2014

Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe Guidelines on Endovascular Treatment in Aortoiliac Arterial Disease

Purpose: These guidelines are intended for use in assessing the standard for technical success and safety in aorto-iliac percutaneous endovascular interventions. Methods: Any recommendation contained in the text comes from the highest level and extension of literature review available to date. Results: The success of endovascular procedures is strictly related to an accurate planning based mainly on CT- or MR-angiography. TASC II A through C lesions have an endovascular-first option Pre-procedure ASA antiplatelet therapy is advisable in all cases. The application of stents improves the immediate hemodynamic and most likely long-term clinical results. Cumulative mean complication rate is 7.51 % according to the most relevant literature. Most of the complications can be managed by means of percutaneous techniques. Conclusion: The design and quality of devices, as well as the easy and accuracy of performing these procedures, have improved over the last decades, leading to the preferential treatment of aorto-iliac steno-obstructive disease via endovascular means, often as first-line therapy, with high technical success rate and low morbidity. This is mirrored by the decreasing number of patients undergoing surgical grafts over the last years with patency, limb salvage, and survival rates equivalent to open reconstruction.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗

DOE OSTI2024

Nuclear Safety System Cybersecurity Panel Summary

The panel discussion titled "Innovations in Advanced Cybersecurity Technologies for Safety Systems Within Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs)" took place at the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Annual Meeting in Las Vegas on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The session was moderated by Lee Maccarone of Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and featured four experts: Benjamin Karch from Sandia National Laboratories, Ismael Garcia from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Trevor Taylor from Paragon Energy Solutions (ES), and Forrest Shriver from Sentinel Devices.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

DOE OSTI2020

An Overview of R and D on Retrievability and Retrieval Technology in Germany - 20462

Retrievability is a term that is included in most radioactive waste management programs around the world. Although national definitions vary, the overall understanding of retrievability concerns the ability to recover waste packages from the repository mine after their emplacement. Different countries may implement retrievability in very different ways, ranging from a built-in reversibility into the emplacement process to the stipulation that retrievability may in no way impede passive safety in the post-closure phase. Germany takes a middle course such that retrievability in a HLW repository (repository for high level radioactive waste) may have no significant detrimental effect on passive safety. In Germany, the current siting process considers rock salt, clay rock, and crystalline rock as potential host rocks. Therefore, Research and Development (R and D) has been investigating repository concepts and retrievability in all host rocks. After introduction of retrievability in 2010, existing repository concepts were modified to facilitate retrieval. The changes made comprised, for example, equipping boreholes with steel liners, developing new technologies, and modifying existing emplacement devices. Apart from retrieval of HLW, retrieval of other wastes from underground repositories that were designed and operated without retrievability in mind, poses major technical and scientific challenges. Currently, studies are under way to investigate the feasibility and costs of partial retrieval of waste from an underground repository for hazardous and highly toxic waste in France, Stocamine. With regard to retrieval, the rock-mechanical conditions are deteriorating rapidly, so time is of the essence. In the Asse II mine in Germany, about 126,500 waste casks with low and intermediate level waste await retrieval. The repository mine suffers from difficult rock-mechanical conditions and inflow of brine, locally into emplacement areas. The Federal Company for Radioactive Waste Disposal (BGE) is legally required to retrieve all wastes from the Asse. Due to the specific challenges, R and D is needed to develop technical solutions for the safe retrieval from each of the emplacement chambers. R and D on retrievability and retrieval technology does not only address challenges in radioactive or toxic waste retrieval but may also help to germinate innovation to better master complex underground situations in general, e.g. in deep mining, tunneling, or repository construction. (authors)

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

DOE OSTI2013

Photoelectrochemistry of core–shell tandem junction n–p + -Si/n-WO 3 microwire array photoelectrodes

Tandem junction (n–p + -Si/ITO/WO 3 /liquid) core–shell microwire devices for solar-driven water splitting have been designed, fabricated and investigated photoelectrochemically. The tandem devices exhibited open-circuit potentials of E oc = –1.21 V versus E 0 '(O 2 /H 2 O), demonstrating additive voltages across the individual junctions (n–p + -Si E oc = –0.5 V versus solution; WO 3 /liquid E oc = –0.73 V versus E 0 '(O 2 /H 2 O)). Optical concentration (12×, AM1.5D) shifted the open-circuit potential to E oc = –1.27 V versus E 0 '(O 2 /H 2 O) and resulted in unassisted H 2 production during two-electrode measurements (anode: tandem device, cathode: Pt disc). Here, the solar energy-conversion efficiencies were very low, 0.0068% and 0.0019% when the cathode compartment was saturated with Ar or H 2 , respectively, due to the non-optimal photovoltage and band-gap of the WO 3 that was used in the demonstration system to obtain stability of all of the system components under common operating conditions while also insuring product separation for safety purposes.

Shaner, Matthew R.↗

DOE OSTI2014

Performance evaluation of CFRP-rubber shock absorbers

In the present work a numerical investigation on the energy absorbing capability of dedicated structural components made of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer and an emulsion polymerised styrene butadiene rubber is reported. The shock absorbers are devices designed to absorb large amounts of energy by sacrificing their own structural integrity. Their aim is to cushion the effects of an impact phenomenon with the intent to preserve other structures from global failure or local damaging. Another important role of shock absorbers is reducing the peak of the acceleration showed during an impact phenomenon. This effect is of considerable interest in the case of vehicles to preserve passengers’ safety. Static and dynamic numerical results are compared with experimental ones in terms of mean crushing forces, energy and peak crushing. The global performance of the absorbers has been evaluated by referencing to a proposed quality index.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2017

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Tunnel Safety Study

Several jurisdictions with critical tunnel infrastructure have expressed the need to understand the risks and implications of traffic incidents in tunnels involving hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. A risk analysis was performed to estimate what scenarios were most likely to occur in the event of a crash. The results show that the most likely consequence is no additional hazard from the hydrogen, although some factors need additional data and study to validate. This includes minor crashes and scenarios with no release or ignition. When the hydrogen does ignite, it is most likely a jet flame from the pressure relief device release due to a hydrocarbon fire. This scenario was considered in detailed modeling of specific tunnel configurations, as well as discussion of consequence concerns from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Localized concrete spalling may result where the jet flame impinges the ceiling, but this is not expected to occur with ventilation. Structural epoxy remains well below the degradation temperature. The total stress on the steel structure was significantly lower than the yield stress of stainless steel at the maximum steel temperature even when the ventilation was not operational. As a result, the steel structure will not be compromised. It is important to note that the study took a conservative approach in several factors, so observed temperatures should be lower than predicted by the models.

08 HYDROGEN↗

DOE OSTI2018

Use of an ocular wound chamber for the prevention of exposure keratopathy in a guinea pig model

Abstract Current therapies available to treat and heal ocular surface injuries and periocular burns are frequently inadequate, costly, and labor intensive. To address these limitations, we have employed a flexible, semitransparent ocular wound chamber (OWC) to provide protection as well as a watertight seal to allow for the constant delivery of therapeutics to the ocular surface and surrounding periocular tissue. This study demonstrates the safety and utilization of the OWC on uninjured eyes and in our exposure keratopathy model. For initial safety studies ( N = 3 per group), the eyelids remained intact and the eye uninjured. A blepharotomy ( N = 6 per group) was performed to remove the upper and lower eyelids surrounding the left (OS) eye to create our exposure keratopathy model. Right (OD) eyes served as uninjured controls in all studies. Following OWC placement, 0.5 mL HPMC gel or balanced saline solution (BSS) was injected into the chamber. Animals were monitored daily and fully assessed via white light, fluorescein, and OCT imaging at least through 72 hours post OWC placement. In studies that included a blepharotomy, skin samples were analyzed by multiplex cytokine analysis. Results of safety experiments revealed no significant differences between treatment groups in corneal thickness, fluorescein staining, OCT imaging, or histological eye or skin sections when compared to control eyes. In our exposure keratopathy model, OWC treated eyes showed significantly less fluorescein uptake and also were found to have significantly lower levels of cytokines IL‐13 and IL‐5 in skin samples. These results demonstrate for the first time that treatment using the OWC device is not only safe, but significantly protects against blepharotomy‐induced exposure keratopathy. As a whole, this study advances our overall efforts to develop a feasible solution to treat ocular surface injuries, infections, and periocular burns.

Holt, Andrew W.↗

DOE OSTI2015

SU-E-T-649: Quality Assurances for Proton Therapy Delivery Equipment

Purpose: The number of proton therapy centers has increased dramatically over the past decade. Currently, there is no comprehensive set of guidelines that addresses quality assurance (QA) procedures for the different technologies used for proton therapy. The AAPM has charged task group 224 (TG-224) to provide recommendations for QA required for accurate and safe dose delivery, using existing and next generation proton therapy delivery equipment. Methods: A database comprised of QA procedures and tolerance limits was generated from many existing proton therapy centers in and outside of the US. These consist of proton therapy centers that possessed double scattering, uniform scanning, and pencil beams delivery systems. The diversity in beam delivery systems as well as the existing devices to perform QA checks for different beam parameters is the main subject of TG-224. Based on current practice at the clinically active proton centers participating in this task group, consensus QA recommendations were developed. The methodologies and requirements of the parameters that must be verified for consistency of the performance of the proton beam delivery systems are discussed. Results: TG-224 provides procedures and QA checks for mechanical, imaging, safety and dosimetry requirements for different proton equipment. These procedures are categorized based on their importance and their required frequencies in order to deliver a safe and consistent dose. The task group provides daily, weekly, monthly, and annual QA check procedures with their tolerance limits. Conclusions: The procedures outlined in this protocol provide sufficient information to qualified medical physicists to perform QA checks for any proton delivery system. Execution of these procedures should provide confidence that proton therapy equipment is functioning as commissioned for patient treatment and delivers dose safely and accurately within the established tolerance limits. The report will be published in late 2015.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗

DOE OSTI2023

Composite Cathode Architectures Made By Freeze-Casting for All Solid State Lithium Batteries (CRADA Final Report)

As part of a Battery 500 seedling project, MBRDNA partnered with LBNL and Montana State University (MSU) to develop solid-state batteries based on an Al-substituted LLZO (Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 ) ceramic ion-conductor. All solid-state lithium batteries are attractive contenders for use as power sources for electric vehicles because of their potential for better safety and higher energy density than state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries, although they are still at early stages of development. Al-substituted LLZO is one of the most promising solid electrolytes for battery applications based on high ionic conductivity, a wide operating voltage window, and apparent stability vs. reduction by lithium. However, difficulties with processing thin (< 20 $\textit{um}$ and dense LLZO membranes have hampered development of devices based on this material. It is non-compressible and must be sintered at high temperatures to densify components. It is also difficult to maintain contact between the active cathode material and LLZO in the composite cathodes, which is critical for successful operation. This research project aimed to use novel processing methods to overcome these issues. The end result was the first ever-reported truly all solid-state battery based on LLZO operating at room temperature without application of exogenous pressure. During the course of the project, we also identified a number of issues that need to be addressed to improve the technology readiness level of this battery.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗

DOE OSTI2018

Batteries and fuel cells for emerging electric vehicle markets

Today's electric vehicles are almost exclusively powered by lithium-ion batteries, but there is a long way to go before electric vehicles become dominant in the global automotive market. In addition to policy support, widespread deployment of electric vehicles requires high-performance and low-cost energy storage technologies, including not only batteries but also alternative electrochemical devices. Here, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of various batteries and hydrogen fuel cells that have the greatest potential to succeed in commercial applications. Three sectors that are not well served by current lithium-ion-powered electric vehicles, namely the long-range, low-cost and high-utilization transportation markets, are discussed. The technological properties that must be improved to fully enable these electric vehicle markets include specific energy, cost, safety and power grid compatibility. Six energy storage and conversion technologies that possess varying combinations of these improved characteristics are compared and separately evaluated for each market. The remainder of the Review briefly discusses the technological status of these clean energy technologies, emphasizing barriers that must be overcome.

Cano, Zachary P. (ORCID:000000022433297X)↗

DOE OSTI2016

Battery Pack Thermal Design

This presentation describes the thermal design of battery packs at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. A battery thermal management system essential for xEVs for both normal operation during daily driving (achieving life and performance) and off-normal operation during abuse conditions (achieving safety). The battery thermal management system needs to be optimized with the right tools for the lowest cost. Experimental tools such as NREL's isothermal battery calorimeter, thermal imaging, and heat transfer setups are needed. Thermal models and computer-aided engineering tools are useful for robust designs. During abuse conditions, designs should prevent cell-to-cell propagation in a module/pack (i.e., keep the fire small and manageable). NREL's battery ISC device can be used for evaluating the robustness of a module/pack to cell-to-cell propagation.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗

DOE OSTI2015

Acoustic detection of cracks in the anvil of a large-volume cubic high-pressure apparatus

A large-volume cubic high-pressure apparatus with three pairs of tungsten carbide anvils is the most popular device for synthetic diamond production. Currently, the consumption of anvils is one of the important costs for the diamond production industry. If one of the anvils is fractured during the production process, the other five anvils in the apparatus may be endangered as a result of a sudden loss of pressure. It is of critical importance to detect and replace cracked anvils before they fracture for reduction of the cost of diamond production and safety. An acoustic detection method is studied in this paper. Two new features, nested power spectrum centroid and modified power spectrum variance, are proposed and combined with linear prediction coefficients to construct a feature vector. A support vector machine model is trained for classification. A sliding time window is proposed for decision-level information fusion. The experiments and analysis show that the recognition rate of anvil cracks is 95%, while the false-alarm rate is as low as 5.8 × 10{sup −4} during a time window; this false-alarm rate indicates that at most one false alarm occurs every 2 months at a confidence level of 90%. An instrument to monitor anvil cracking was designed based on a digital signal processor and has been running for more than eight months in a diamond production field. In this time, two anvil-crack incidents occurred and were detected by the instrument correctly. In addition, no false alarms occurred.

42 ENGINEERING↗