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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 667 records · Page 37

The Integrated Virtual Blast Furnace: Enabling Physics-Based Operational Guidance

As part of a DOE-supported research effort, Purdue University Northwest researchers are collaborating with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and United States Steel Corporation to develop a tool to provide blast furnace operators and engineers with process performance insight comparable to high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics modeling, accelerated to provide “what-if” scenarios at near-real-time speed. This is accomplished by pre-simulating a baseline case and a range of potential operating scenarios to establish how the furnace responds to changing inputs, then training a neural network-based Reduced Order Model to accelerate the speed at which predictions of key parameters can be generated.

Okosun, Tyamo↗

Diol-enhanced natural deep eutectic solvents for efficient poplar pretreatment

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NDESs) are promising biomass pretreatment media, but their industrial application is often hindered by high viscosity. To address this limitation, diol-enhanced ternary DESs (TDESs) were prepared by incorporating 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) or ethylene glycol (EG) into a choline chloride (ChCl) and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA) system. The applied TDESs maintained a liquid state at room temperature and had significantly reduced viscosity compared to the binary DES (BDES). In addition, the applied diols increased lignin solubility and suppressed lignin condensation by intercepting reactive carbocation intermediates. As a result, the recovered lignins from diol-induced TDES pretreatments showed better preservation of β-O-4 linkages and reduced condensation, improving their potential for downstream valorization. The diol-assisted DES systems showed a synergistic effect from the reduced viscosity, enhanced lignin solubility, and suppression of unwanted condensation, resulting in more effective biomass pretreatment performance, including the enhanced delignification and higher enzymatic digestibility compared to BDES. The 1,4-BDO-enhanced DES was also successfully applied to DHBA-enriched transgenic poplar, highlighting its potential for the processing of engineered biomass feedstocks.

3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid↗

Algae Biofilm Produced from Anaerobic Digester Wastewater Demonstrated as Biofertilizer for Dwarf Wheat

Aims: To correlate yield of dwarf wheat fertilized with algae biofilm produced using anaerobic digester effluent (digestate) from a municipal water resource recovery facility as nutrient source and compare with yield using non-algae biofilm based fertilizers and a negative control. Study Design: Greenhouse testing for measurement of biomass yields and statistical analysis of wheat yield data results. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biological Engineering Algae Processing and Products Facility greenhouse between March and June, 2024. Methodology: Yield of a dwarf cultivar of red spring wheat was measured as a function of four treatments including three fertilizers and a negative control: (1) algae biofilm cultivated on anaerobic digester effluent, (2) positive control of Osmocote commercial slow release fertilizer, (3) anaerobic digester biosolids, and (4) negative control with no fertilizer addition. Results: Average yield values (gm) for the four treatments were: (1) 1.25, (2) 0.99, (3) 0.72, and (4) 0.52, respectively. Algae biofilm fertilizer performed significantly better than Osmocote with P = .002, anaerobic digester biosolids with P = .05, and no fertilizer addition with P = .05. Struvite, a slow release fertilizer, was observed to be associated with the algae biofilm as a precipitate of the high concentrations of nutrients within the anaerobic digester water. Struvite (MgNH4PO46H2O) releases plant available nitrogen and phosphorus over time and is biologically precipitated due to the increase in solution pH as a result of photosynthesis by the algae biofilm. Conclusion: Algae biofilm cultivated on anaerobic digester wastewater can serve as a biofertilizer for recycling nutrients within the biosphere for sustainable nutrient management.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗

Shuttle mission simulator requirement report, volume 2, revision A

The training requirements of all mission phases for crews and ground support personnel are presented. The specifications are given for the design and development of the simulator, data processing systems, engine control, software, and systems integration.

Burke, J. F.↗

DUMAND Summer Workshop, University of California, La Jolla, Calif., July 24-September 2, 1978, Proceedings. Volume 3 - Oceanographic and ocean engineering studies

The DUMAND (Deep Underwater Muon and Neutrino Detector) array, a hexagon 800 m on a side, 673 m high, and consisting of 22,698 sensor modules, is designed to detect neutrinos in the TeV range, hadronic cascades, muons and Cerenkov radiation. Its engineering, signal processing, and logistic aspects are considered, as are its optical detection (photomultiplier tubes) system and electronics. Geological and bottom current surveys were made at two proposed sites for the array (the Maui and Keahole Point basins of Hawaii), and a study of the steady-state response of a sensor string to current drag forces is reported. Biological interference with the DUMAND array, including mechanical entanglement by large animals, bioluminescence, and especially biofouling are considered, as well as the deployment, implantment and maintenance of the array.

Wilkins, G.↗

Space Shuttle main engine progress through the first flight

A system overview is presented for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME), and extensive performance comparisons are made with the Saturn V booster powerplant showing (1) staged-combustion turbopump pressures of 7,500 vs 1,100 psi for the Saturn V first stage; (2) a specific impulse of 455 vs 300; (3) power density of 100 vs 20 hp/lb; and (4) chamber pressures of 3200 vs 1000 psia. An account is then given of the SSME testing program, engine certification process and flight aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia, with attention to anomalies detected during flight in turbopump operation and mixture ratio sensor function.

Johnson, J. R.↗

Controlled Ecological Life Support System: Research and Development Guidelines

Results of a workshop designed to provide a base for initiating a program of research and development of controlled ecological life support systems (CELSS) are summarized. Included are an evaluation of a ground based manned demonstration as a milestone in CELSS development, and a discussion of development requirements for a successful ground based CELSS demonstration. Research recommendations are presented concerning the following topics: nutrition and food processing, food production, waste processing, systems engineering and modelling, and ecology-systems safety.

Mason, R. M.↗

In-house welding studies supporting the prelaunch assessment of the STS-6 main engines

Welding studies were undertaken as a result of problems with the Challenger engines. The process used to perform these welds on heat exchanger coils, and sample test data, are described. Recommendations for process improvement are included. Effort to simulate problem welds, as well as good welds, test data, and conclusions for the high pressure fuel turbopump are also are discussed.

Hawkins, L. L.↗

Advanced numerics for multi-dimensional fluid flow calculations

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the development and use of mathematical models for the simulation of fluid flow, heat transfer and combustion processes in engineering equipment. The equations representing the multi-dimensional transport of mass, momenta and species are numerically solved by finite-difference or finite-element techniques. However despite the multiude of differencing schemes and solution algorithms, and the advancement of computing power, the calculation of multi-dimensional flows, especially three-dimensional flows, remains a mammoth task. The following discussion is concerned with the author's recent work on the construction of accurate discretization schemes for the partial derivatives, and the efficient solution of the set of nonlinear algebraic equations resulting after discretization. The present work has been jointly supported by the Ramjet Engine Division of the Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, and the NASA Lewis Research Center.

Vanka, S. P.↗

Stratified charge rotary aircraft engine technology enablement program

The multifuel stratified charge rotary engine is discussed. A single rotor, 0.7L/40 cu in displacement, research rig engine was tested. The research rig engine was designed for operation at high speeds and pressures, combustion chamber peak pressure providing margin for speed and load excursions above the design requirement for a high is advanced aircraft engine. It is indicated that the single rotor research rig engine is capable of meeting the established design requirements of 120 kW, 8,000 RPM, 1,379 KPA BMEP. The research rig engine, when fully developed, will be a valuable tool for investigating, advanced and highly advanced technology components, and provide an understanding of the stratified charge rotary engine combustion process.

Badgley, P. R.↗

A modal parameter extraction procedure applicable to linear time-invariant dynamic systems

Modal analysis has emerged as a valuable tool in many phases of the engineering design process. Complex vibration and acoustic problems in new designs can often be remedied through use of the method. Moreover, the technique has been used to enhance the conceptual understanding of structures by serving to verify analytical models. A new modal parameter estimation procedure is presented. The technique is applicable to linear, time-invariant systems and accommodates multiple input excitations. In order to provide a background for the derivation of the method, some modal parameter extraction procedures currently in use are described. Key features implemented in the new technique are elaborated upon.

Kurdila, A. J.↗

Color postprocessing for 3-dimensional finite element mesh quality evaluation and evolving graphical workstation

Three general tasks on general-purpose, interactive color graphics postprocessing for three-dimensional computational mechanics were accomplished. First, the existing program (POSTPRO3D) is ported to a high-resolution device. In the course of this transfer, numerous enhancements are implemented in the program. The performance of the hardware was evaluated from the point of view of engineering postprocessing, and the characteristics of future hardware were discussed. Second, interactive graphical tools implemented to facilitate qualitative mesh evaluation from a single analysis. The literature was surveyed and a bibliography compiled. Qualitative mesh sensors were examined, and the use of two-dimensional plots of unaveraged responses on the surface of three-dimensional continua was emphasized in an interactive color raster graphics environment. Finally, a postprocessing environment was designed for state-of-the-art workstation technology. Modularity, personalization of the environment, integration of the engineering design processes, and the development and use of high-level graphics tools are some of the features of the intended environment.

Panthaki, Malcolm J.↗

Materials processing in space: An introduction to the G-480 payload

The Space Research and Development Organization at San Jose State University designed and developed a small self-contained payload (designated G-480 by NASA) which will perform four materials science experiments in low Earth orbit aboard the Space Shuttle. These experiments are categorized under two areas of investigation: corrosion and electrodeposition. While none of these experiments have previously been performed in space, both government and industry have expressed great interest in these and related areas of materials processing and engineering. A brief history of the G-480 project development is given along with a description of each experiment, followed by a tour of the G-480 payload. Expected results are discussed along with the function, design and operation of the payload hardware and software.

Butow, Steven J.↗

Artificial intelligence in a mission operations and satellite test environment

A Generic Mission Operations System using Expert System technology to demonstrate the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) automated monitor and control functions in a Mission Operations and Satellite Test environment will be developed at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Expert system techniques in a real time operation environment are being studied and applied to science and engineering data processing. Advanced decommutation schemes and intelligent display technology will be examined to develop imaginative improvements in rapid interpretation and distribution of information. The Generic Payload Operations Control Center (GPOCC) will demonstrate improved data handling accuracy, flexibility, and responsiveness in a complex mission environment. The ultimate goal is to automate repetitious mission operations, instrument, and satellite test functions by the applications of expert system technology and artificial intelligence resources and to enhance the level of man-machine sophistication.

Busse, Carl↗

Composite sizing and ply orientation for stiffness requirements using a large finite element structural model

A NASTRAN bulk dataset preprocessor was developed to facilitate the integration of filamentary composite laminate properties into composite structural resizing for stiffness requirements. The NASCOMP system generates delta stiffness and delta mass matrices for input to the flutter derivative program. The flutter baseline analysis, derivative calculations, and stiffness and mass matrix updates are controlled by engineer defined processes under an operating system called CBUS. A multi-layered design variable grid system permits high fidelity resizing without excessive computer cost. The NASCOMP system uses ply layup drawings for basic input. The aeroelastic resizing for stiffness capability was used during an actual design exercise.

Radovcich, N. A.↗