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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 73 records · Page 4
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2022

Mapping thermal energy storage technologies with advanced nuclear reactors

Advanced nuclear power plants (NPPs) will potentially need to operate in environments where power generation flexibility is more highly valued than the stability or baseload generation capability for conventional demand curves. Thermal energy storage (TES) systems would enable NPPs to respond nimbly to market variability and could also position advanced NPPs to participate differently in restructured markets, thus further enhancing their economic competitiveness. TES systems could also benefit the electric grid by eliminating the need for peaking plants, as well as by improving the economic performance of baseload NPPs. While TES technologies afford a unique opportunity to address many of these challenges, the applicability of these systems is also complicated by the fact that various advanced NPPs are designed differently, each with its own temperature range, size, operating fluids, and operating conditions. Hence, TES systems face significant barriers to investment, as more information on their compatibility and performance metrics is needed to quantify the advantages provided by each, as well as the challenges these technologies might face if coupled with a particular type of advanced NPP. This study explores the possibility of integrating a wide variety of TES technologies with various categories of advanced NPPs, based on their operating characteristics. To help decision makers, users and developers decide which TES technology is best suited to a particular category of advanced NPPs, this research present a Phenomena Identification and Ranking Table (PIRT) analysis of 10 TES systems that could potentially be coupled with advanced NPPs, which themselves are divided into nine categories based on their operating conditions. Then, each advanced NPP category is evaluated for compatibility with the 10 TES systems by assembling and discussing a database of information concerning 10 engineering questions, defined herein in as figures of merit (FOMs), such as: technology readiness level (TRL), temperature compatibility, energy density, size, cycle frequency, ramp time, realignment frequency, geographic needs, environmental impact, and interventions. By assembling a database of information concerning the TES technologies' compatibility with various advanced NPP systems, this study can help developers acquaint themselves with a particular TES technology before choosing to build a new integrated installation.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2025

Formation of distinctive nanostructured metastable polymorphs mediated by kinetic transition pathways in germanium

High-pressure β -Sn germanium may transform into diverse metastable allotropes with distinctive nanostructures and unique physical properties via multiple pathways under decompression. However, the mechanism and transition kinetics remain poorly understood. Here, we investigate the formation of metastable phases and nanostructures in germanium via controllable transition pathways of β -Sn Ge under rapid decompression at different rates. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy reveals three distinct metastable phases with the distinctive nanostructures: an almost perfect st12 Ge crystal, nanosized bc8/r8 structures with amorphous boundaries, and amorphous Ge with nanosized clusters (0.8–2.5 nm). Fast in situ x-ray diffraction and x-ray absorption measurements indicate that these nanostructured products form in certain pressure regions via distinct kinetic pathways and are strongly correlated with nucleation rates and electronic transitions mediated by compression rate, temperature, and stress. This work provides deep insight into the controllable synthesis of metastable materials with unique crystal symmetries and nanostructures for potential applications.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2024

7-8 GHz Point-to-Point Testing

Wireless spectrum is a limiting resource for continued economic growth in the United States. As discussed in the recent National Spectrum Strategy (NSS), wireless spectrum underpins several aspects of the U.S. economy and the demand for additional spectrum is driving the need for realizing spectrum sharing to enable continued development. At the same time, wireless spectrum is an essential foundation of critical energy infrastructure, including electric, oil, and natural gas resources. In particular, wireless point-to-point (P2P) links are the backbone of vast infrastructure networks that enable the flow of sensor and control information needed to manage critical energy sector infrastructure in the United States. These links will only become more important as the energy sector incorporates more diverse sensing and more efficient control mechanisms, which increases system complexity and data volume requiring more resilient communications. Therefore, the continued economic development of the U.S. depends on determining novel approaches to spectrum management that balance both broad access for advanced wireless technologies and resilience for critical infrastructure.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Study of 149 Sm Capture and Total Cross Sections for Burnup Credit Applications [Slides]

This presentation highlights how capture and transmission measurements were performed with the DANCE (Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments) instrument with capture data from 8 eV – 1 keV, and DICER (Device for Indirect Capture Experiments on Radionuclides) instruments with transmission data from 1meV – 1 keV. There were additional measurements of 147 Sm which had contaminant in the samples, 3.4 eV strong resonance, interesting abnormalities. The data analysis is complete and the R-Matrix analysis almost (90%) complete.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2020

Mapping valence electron distributions with multipole density formalism using 4D-STEM

Recent advancement in aberration correction and detector technology opened a door to various applications using 4D-STEM, which yields a diffraction pattern for each scanning position within a crystal unit-cell in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and generates incredible amounts of data in momentum space. Currently 4D-STEM analysis relies on the center-of-mass of the diffraction patterns in electric field and charge density mapping. It only derives the total projected charge density and is limited to phase objects, e.g. extremely thin samples. Here, we propose a new analytical method to accurately map aspherical valence electron distributions with atom-centered multipolar functions formalism using the whole 4D-STEM dataset. We demonstrate that, with the full dynamical calculations for various sample thicknesses, the method is sensitive not only to the miniscule charge transfer, but also to the atomic site symmetry and aspherical electron orbitals. The process of the refinement is much more robust and reliable than quantitative convergent beam electron diffraction.

4D-STEM↗
DOE OSTI2025

Assessing hydrogen supply chains: An integrated review of leakage and energy efficiency studies

This paper examines hydrogen leakage and efficiency across the supply chain for liquid, gaseous, and mixed hydrogen systems. These factors are crucial for assessing hydrogen's role in mitigating emissions and facilitating a clean energy transition. Drawing on a comprehensive review of existing literature and model-based analysis, the study compiles leakage rates and efficiency metrics at each stage of the supply chain: production, storage, transmission, distribution, and end-use. These data inform system scenarios that estimate the impact of leakage on overall performance and climate benefits. The analysis also identifies persistent data gaps, particularly for liquid and mixed system configurations, and outlines priorities for future research. A comparison of hydrogen system types shows that gaseous pathways generally achieve the highest efficiencies (28 %–39 %) and the lowest leakage rates (∼4.5 %) across the supply chain. Liquid hydrogen systems, while favorable for long-distance and high-volume transport due to their higher energy density, exhibit lower efficiency (∼28 %) and a greater leakage potential (∼12 %). Mixed systems, which combine gaseous and liquid elements (e.g., pipeline transmission followed by liquefaction and truck distribution), show compounded energy losses and moderate-to-high leakage rates (6.8 %–9.4 %), highlighting trade-offs associated with added system complexity. The study highlights opportunities for technological advancements, including optimizing liquefaction, enhancing insulation for storage and transportation, and refining refueling equipment. These improvements are crucial for maximizing the climate benefits of hydrogen. The results offer actionable insights for researchers, industry, and policymakers working to develop low-leakage, high-efficiency hydrogen infrastructure.

08 HYDROGEN↗
DOE OSTI2024

Comparative S/TEM study of superconducting Ta quantum resonators by wet and dry etching types

Superconducting resonators play a pivotal role in various quantum technology applications, such as quantum computing and high-frequency communication systems. The performance of these resonators is closely tied to the properties of the superconducting films used in their fabrication. Here, in this study, we investigated the impact of wet and dry etching on tantalum (Ta) films leveraging advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy-based characterization methods and examined the morphological, chemical, and strain changes caused by the etching processes. Consequently, we report the significant differences between the two etching methods, with dry etching resulting in straight slanted sidewalls and a thinner oxidized layer, while wet etching produced curved sidewalls and undercuts. Both methods led to the formation of a residual Ta wedge at the lower part of the sidewall, causing lattice deformation, which could adversely influence the homogeneous operations of superconducting devices. These insights enhance our understanding of how etching influences superconducting films, offering valuable guidance for optimizing resonators and related devices. Our findings mark a significant stride in advancing quantum technologies and high-frequency communication by enhancing our practical understanding of superconducting material fabrication.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2020

Directional shock diode behavior through the interaction of geometric voids in engineered polymer assemblies

With the advent of additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, a new class of shockwave mitigation and structural supports has been realized through the hierarchical assembly of polymer materials. To date, there have been a limited number of studies investigating the role of structure on shockwave localization and whether AM offers a means to tailor shockwave behavior. Of particular interest is whether the mesoscopic structure can be tailored to achieve shockwave properties in one direction of impact vs the other. In this work, we illustrate directional response in engineered polymer foams. In situ time-resolved x-ray phase contrast imaging at the Advanced Photon Source was used to characterize these diode-like structures. This work offers a breakthrough in materials technology for the development of protective structures that require augmentation of shock in one direction while diminishing transmission in the opposite direction.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2020

Communications for the Future Electric Grid: Systems and Implications

As the operation of the electric grid continues to become more automated, the associated increase in sensors and systems places increasing demands for fast response, cybersecure communications. This paper presents a review of advances underway in communications and networking technologies that may be implemented to meet these future electric grid requirements.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Reducing Fuel Consumption on a Heavy-Duty Nonroad Vehicle: Conventional Powertrain Modifications

This investigation focuses on conventional powertrain technologies that provide operational synergy based on customer utilization to reduce fuel consumption for a heavy-duty, nonroad (off-road) material handler. The vehicle of interest is a Pettibone Cary-Lift 204i, with a base weight of 50,000 lbs. and a lift capacity of 20,000 lbs. The conventional powertrain consists of a US Tier 4 Final diesel engine, a non-lockup torque converter, a four-speed powershift automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. The paper will present a base vehicle energy/fuel consumption breakdown of propulsion, hydraulic and idle distribution based on a representative end-user drive cycle. The baseline vehicle test data was then used to develop a correlated lumped parameter model of the vehicle-powertrain-hydraulic system that can be used to explore technology integration that can reduce fuel consumption. Two conventional powertrain modifications are explored that provide potential pathways that significantly alter the base powertrain and include 1.) a torque converter disconnect clutch and 2.) a low voltage stop-start system that have the potential to reduce fuel consumption on the end user representative drive cycle by 10.3% and 9.8%, respectively. Details of how the powertrain modifications would be executed, physical hardware, and application to other heavy-duty nonroad vehicle applications are included in the discussion.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗
DOE OSTI2022

New Industry Partnerships: Solar Energy Technologies Office Support for Early Projects in the Energy Systems Integration Facility: An Agreement Closeout Summary Report

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO)-funded New Industry Partnerships (NIPs) agreement established multiple new cooperative research projects with industry partners. Each project demonstrated the use of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF) as a national asset for research and development, testing, and validation of new technologies to support high penetrations of solar energy on the electric grid. The agreement was launched in 2013 and represented the SETO portion of the DOE EERE-wide Integrated Network Testbed for Energy Grid Research and Technology Experimentation (INTEGRATE) program. The focus of INTEGRATE was on multi-energy system testing and on testing the interactions of energy systems with information technology, communications, and telecommunications (ICT) systems. The NIPs agreement was a bit different from traditional research projects because it was specifically structured to enable partnerships for ESIF testing and as such required at least a 1:1 funds-in cost share from industry partners. In the end, the project engaged six different industry partnerships and resulted in testing a large number of innovative technologies. These included tiny inverters; power-to-gas technologies; and advanced simulation, analysis, and power-hardware-in-the-loop testing techniques. The agreement also provided significant impact for both research and industrial communities. This summary report provides a brief, high-level overview of these projects and their highlights along with lists of citations and other impacts. Readers are referred to the corresponding project reports for more in-depth information.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Exceptional points in a passive strip waveguide

Abstract Exceptional points (EPs) in non‐Hermitian systems have attracted significant interest due to their unique behaviors, including novel wave propagation and radiation. While EPs have been explored in various photonic systems, their integration into standard photonic platforms can expand their applicability to broader technological domains. In this work, we propose and experimentally demonstrate EPs in an integrated photonic strip waveguide configuration, exhibiting unique deep wave penetration and uniform‐intensity radiation profiles. By introducing the second‐order grating on one side of the waveguide, forward and backward propagating modes are coupled both directly through second‐order coupling and indirectly through first‐order coupling via a radiative intermediate mode. To describe the EP behavior in a strip configuration, we introduce modified coupled‐mode equations that account for both transverse and longitudinal components. These coupled‐mode formulas reveal the formation of EPs in bandgap closure, achieved by numerically optimizing the grating’s duty cycle to manipulate the first‐ and second‐order couplings simultaneously. Experimental observations, consistent with simulations, confirm the EP behavior, with symmetric transmission spectra and constant radiation profiles at the EP wavelength, in contrast to conventional exponential decay observed at detuned wavelengths. These results demonstrate the realization of EPs in a widely applicable strip waveguide configuration, paving the way for advanced EP applications in nonlinear and ultrafast photonics, as well as advanced sensing technologies.

Materials Science↗
DOE OSTI2024

Reference Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams for Heat Transport Systems for Methanol Plants

This report aims to bridge the gap between advanced nuclear reactor vendors and methanol producers seeking decarbonization. It equips both parties with tools and preliminary information for integrating clean heat from advanced reactors into novel methanol production processes. The proposed investigation in this report involves a three-step approach: 1. Design of Current and Decarbonized Process Models for Methanol Production. This report initiates process modeling of two novel methanol production pathways, with their overall energy requirements comparative to classical methanol production (see Figure ES1). The two process models provide the foundation for analyzing integration of hermos-electric generation from advanced nuclear reactors. 2. Identification of Coupling Points to Integrate Advanced Reactors. This report investigates the integration with two advanced reactor technologies: light-water reactors (LWRs) and high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs). The key coupling points between advanced nuclear reactors and the production facilities associated with the two decarbonized methanol process pathways are identified. 3. Preliminary Heat and Electricity Transfer Design from Reactors to Methanol Production Sites. The preliminary designs for piping and instrumentation to transfer heat from the boundary of advanced reactor technology location to the boundary of methanol production site are evaluated within the context of decarbonized pathways. The pipe analysis for heat transfer adheres to relevant codes and specifications from American Society of Mechanical Engineering. A simplified design for transmission of electricity to the industrial site has been provided.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
DOE OSTI2025

ELECTRIFICATION OF A HEAVY-DUTY OFF-ROAD MATERIAL HANDLER: ENERGY SAVINGS AND EMISSION REDUCTIONS

Federal regulations are driving the adoption of electrification technologies to reduce carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions, a metric that quantifies the global warming potential of various greenhouse gases in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2). Although no specific CO2 regulations exist for heavy-duty off-road machines, future reductions are likely, given stricter emissions standards for on-road vehicles. The heavy-duty off-road sector offers significant fuel-saving potential, as its focus has traditionally been on reliability and performance rather than fuel efficiency. This dissertation examines fuel and CO2e savings opportunities on a heavy-duty off-road material handler, the Pettibone Cary-Lift 204i, from stock configuration to simple modifications to a complete teardown and reconfiguration of the machine with a plug-in series hybrid architecture using electrified hydraulics. The study begins by modeling the baseline machine’s fuel and energy consumption, calibrating with experimental data from custom operating cycles. An energy analysis identifies key areas for fuel savings. Two simple powertrain modifications result in a combined 16.2% fuel savings. Next, a Pugh-style analysis narrows a list of electrified architectures, leading to high-fidelity models that evaluate total lifetime CO2e and costs. Higher electrification levels reduce CO2e emissions but increase costs, and electricity grid emissions significantly impact CO2e for plug-in architectures. A plug-in series hybrid is chosen for the project. In its base control form, 49% fuel and 29% CO2e savings are expected from the plug-in series hybrid compared to the baseline machine. Further savings are pursued through regenerative braking (6.3%) and load-following hydraulic control (17.8%), totaling 24.1% fuel savings, and leading to a total of 61% fuel and 41% CO2e savings compared to the baseline. Battery chemistries and charging strategies are also analyzed for cost and CO2e impacts, finding LFP batteries as superior due to longevity, and overnight level 2 charging usually at a lower cost but resulting in higher emissions than opportunity DC fast-charging (DCFC). DCFC emissions are highly dependent on grid emissions, and DCFC cost is highly dependent on grid demand charges. Finally, artificial intelligence is applied to operating cycle recognition. Neural network accuracy ranges from 81% to 99%, with applications to worksite efficiency and safety improvements.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2020

NREL's Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) Test Bed

NREL's advanced distribution management system (ADMS) test bed is a vendor-neutral resource for evaluating existing and future ADMS functionalities in a realistic laboratory setting. The test bed uses Opal-RT's ePHASORsim and eMEGAsim products interfaced with an OpenDSS power system simulation through the HELICS cosimulation platform developed by multiple DOE laboratories; and with power and controller hardware. NREL will present an overview of the test bed and the technologies included within it, and also some examples of how the test bed has been used to address industry challenges.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗
DOE OSTI2024

Effective Communication of Energy Science and Technology

Although research, development, and deployment of advanced energy technologies are essential for the clean energy transition, communication about these technologies is equally important to their success. Energy is part of everyday life; therefore, changes in energy systems should be accepted by communities and industries. Yet details about energy generation, transmission, and environmental impacts are complex. The combination of commonality and complexity requires communications to use visualization, localization, narrative, and understandable terminology to reach a range of stakeholders. Collaboration between technology experts and communications professionals builds integrity and accessibility of energy information that enables community-based solutions for energy.

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗
DOE OSTI2021

High-energy micrometre-scale pixel direct conversion X-ray detector

The objective of this work was to fabricate and characterize a new X-ray imaging detector with micrometre-scale pixel dimensions (7.8 µm) and high detection efficiency for hard X-ray energies above 20 keV. A key technology component consists of a monolithic hybrid detector built by direct deposition of an amorphous selenium film on a custom designed CMOS readout integrated circuit. Characterization was carried out at the synchrotron beamline 1-BM-B at the Advanced Photon Source of Argonne National Laboratory. The direct conversion detector demonstrated micrometre-scale spatial resolution with a 63 keV modulation transfer function of 10% at Nyquist frequency. In addition, spatial resolving power down to 8 µm was determined by imaging a transmission bar target at 21 keV. X-ray signal linearity, responsivity and lag were also characterized in the same energy range. Finally, phase contrast edge enhancement was observed in a phase object placed in the beam path. This amorphous selenium/CMOS detector technology can address gaps in commercially available X-ray detectors which limit their usefulness for existing synchrotron applications at energies greater than 50 keV; for example, phase contrast tomography and high-resolution imaging of nanoscale lattice distortions in bulk crystalline materials using Bragg coherent diffraction imaging. Here, the technology will also facilitate the creation of novel synchrotron imaging applications for X-ray energies at or above 20 keV.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2023

Local Weather Station Design and Development for Cost-Effective Environmental Monitoring and Real-Time Data Sharing

Current weather monitoring systems often remain out of reach for small-scale users and local communities due to their high costs and complexity. This paper addresses this significant issue by introducing a cost-effective, easy-to-use local weather station. Utilizing low-cost sensors, this weather station is a pivotal tool in making environmental monitoring more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for those with limited resources. It offers efficient in-site measurements of various environmental parameters, such as temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, carbon dioxide concentration, and particulate matter, including PM 1, PM 2.5, and PM 10. The findings demonstrate the station’s capability to monitor these variables remotely and provide forecasts with a high degree of accuracy, displaying an error margin of just 0.67%. Furthermore, the station’s use of the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model enables short-term, reliable forecasts crucial for applications in agriculture, transportation, and air quality monitoring. Furthermore, the weather station’s open-source nature significantly enhances environmental monitoring accessibility for smaller users and encourages broader public data sharing. With this approach, crucial in addressing climate change challenges, the station empowers communities to make informed decisions based on real-time data. In designing and developing this low-cost, efficient monitoring system, this work provides a valuable blueprint for future advancements in environmental technologies, emphasizing sustainability. The proposed automatic weather station not only offers an economical solution for environmental monitoring but also features a user-friendly interface for seamless data communication between the sensor platform and end users. This system ensures the transmission of data through various web-based platforms, catering to users with diverse technical backgrounds. Furthermore, by leveraging historical data through the ARIMA model, the station enhances its utility in providing short-term forecasts and supporting critical decision-making processes across different sectors.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗