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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

Crystalline versus Glassy Nature of Iron Phosphate Waste Forms Subjected to Different Slow Cooling Curves

This report provides experimental details and associated results on the elemental distributions (compositions), crystalline/amorphous phase distributions, and microstructures for iron phosphate reference materials (DPF5-336) made with different cooling curves and starting from different temperatures (i.e., 1050°C and 1200°C). The primary goal of this work was to evaluate the properties of the DPF5- 336 reference material after it was melted and cooled at different rates to simulate the cooling profile of different types of canisters. Crystal fractions across the SCC#2, SCC#3, and SCC#5 samples were all similar ranging in crystal content of 35.66–41.14 mass% with amorphous fractions being the balance (64.34–58.86 mass%, respectively). This shows that the heat treatment profile did not seems to greatly affect either the total crystal content or the phase distributions. The quenched sample was almost completely amorphous (99.55 mass%) with very small peaks identified as Li 3 Fe 2 (PO 4 ) 3 whereas the SCC-treated materials showed peaks for what appear to be ten separate phases present in various concentrations. Another goal of these experiments was to see how the phase distribution affected chemical durability of these waste forms, but that information is being collected at Argonne National Laboratory and will be published in a separate report

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

Detailed characterization of a five-dimensional phase space distribution

We image the five-dimensional phase space distribution of a hadron beam in unprecedented detail. The resolution and dynamic range of the measurement are sufficient to resolve sharp, high-dimensional features in low-density regions of phase space. We develop several visualization techniques, including non-planar slicing, to facilitate the identification and analysis of such features. We use these techniques to examine the transverse dependence of longitudinal hollowing and the longitudinal dependence of transverse hollowing in the distribution. Our results strengthen the claim that low-dimensional projections do not adequately characterize high-dimensional phase space distributions.

Hoover, Austin↗

ED-cPSD: Fast Phase-Size Distribution via Sequential Erosion-Dilation

The Erosion-Dilation continuous Phase-Size Distribution, ED-cPSD, is an application for calculating continuous pore and particle-size distribution from digital reconstructions and/or image-based structural data. It is based on the erosion-dilation continuous phase-size distribution method. A continuous size distribution is a measure of the probability density of finding a particle or pore of a certain size. These distributions are of interest in any field of study involving porous media, including but not limited to electrochemistry, petroleum engineering, geology, and food science. The algorithm behind the software provides a computationally efficient way to calculate phase-size distributions for large domains. For a 3D battery electrode reconstruction with 1.3 x 10 8 voxels, the particle size distribution is derived in under 2 min on a desktop, while also retaining flexibility and computational efficiency for HPC-scale multi-threading. The software can handle structures with over 10 9 voxels. The algorithm is roughly 280 times faster than a previous version on the same task.

Characterization↗

Single-phase power distribution system power flow and fault analysis

Alternative methods for power flow and fault analysis of single-phase distribution systems are presented. The algorithms for both power flow and fault analysis utilize a generalized approach to network modeling. The generalized admittance matrix, formed using elements of linear graph theory, is an accurate network model for all possible single-phase network configurations. Unlike the standard nodal admittance matrix formulation algorithms, the generalized approach uses generalized component models for the transmission line and transformer. The standard assumption of a common node voltage reference point is not required to construct the generalized admittance matrix. Therefore, truly accurate simulation results can be obtained for networks that cannot be modeled using traditional techniques.

Halpin, S. M.↗

Iteration-based Linearized Distribution-level Locational Marginal Price for Three-phase Unbalanced Distribution Systems

Distributed energy resources (DERs) are rocking the utilities’ business landscape. It calls for competitive market environments that incentivize DERs to form maximum operating efficiency. Among proposed pricing schemes, distribution-level locational marginal price (DLMP) is effective in signaling the marginal generation cost differences driven by energy losses and network constraints. It can be derived from a distribution-level optimal power flow (OPF) framework, as it essentially presents the sensitivity of optimized generation cost towards incremental loads. However, due to the high resistance-to-inductance ratio and unbalanced characteristics of distribution networks, computational affordable DLMPs are highly challenged. This article provides a linear-approximated DLMP that can be solved efficiently and generalized to account for reactive power flow, three-phase unbalanced loads and meshed network structure. The successive linear programming technique is introduced to enhance the model accuracy. Case studies on an IEEE 123-Bus system validate its accuracy against a nonlinear benchmark and capability in offering proper incentives.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

Positive phase space distributions and uncertainty relations

In contrast to a widespread belief, Wigner's theorem allows the construction of true joint probabilities in phase space for distributions describing the object system as well as for distributions depending on the measurement apparatus. The fundamental role of Heisenberg's uncertainty relations in Schroedinger form (including correlations) is pointed out for these two possible interpretations of joint probability distributions. Hence, in order that a multivariate normal probability distribution in phase space may correspond to a Wigner distribution of a pure or a mixed state, it is necessary and sufficient that Heisenberg's uncertainty relation in Schroedinger form should be satisfied.

Kruger, Jan↗

Phase control system concepts and simulations

A phase control system concept for a solar power satellite is proposed which partitions the system into three major levels. The first level of phase control consists of a reference phase distribution system implemented in the form of phase distribution tree structure. The major purpose of the tree structure is to electronically compensate for the phase shift due to the transition path lengths from the center of the spacetenna to each phase control center located in each subarray. In the reference system, this is accomplished using the master slave returnable timing system technique. The second level of phase control consists of the beam steering and microwave power generating system which houses the power transponders. This transponder consists of a set of phase conjugation multipliers driven by the reference phase distribution system output and the output of a pilot spread spectrum receiver which accepts the received pilot via a diplexer connected to a separate receive horn or the subarray itself. The output of the phase conjugation circuits serve as inputs to the third level of the phase control system. The third level of phase control is associated with maintaining an equal and constant phase shift through the microwave power amplifier devices while minimizing the associated phase noise effects on the generated power beam. This is accomplished by providing a phase locked loop around each high power amplifier.

Lindsay, V. C.↗

Simulations of phase space distributions of storm time proton ring current

We use results of guiding-center simulations of ion transport to map phase space densities of the stormtime proton ring current. We model a storm as a sequence of substorm-associated enhancements in the convection electric field. Our pre-storm phase space distribution is an analytical solution to a steady-state transport model in which quiet-time radial diffusion balances charge exchange. This pre-storm phase space spectra at L approximately 2 to 4 reproduce many of the features found in observed quiet-time spectra. Using results from simulations of ion transport during model storms having main phases of 3, 6, and 12 hr, we map phase space distributions from the pre-storm distribution in accordance with Liouville's theorem. We find stormtime enhancements in the phase space densities at energies E approximately 30-160 keV for L approximately 2.5 to 4. These enhancements agree well with the observed stormtime ring current. For storms with shorter main phases (approximately 3 hr), the enhancements are caused mainly by the trapping of ions injected from open night side trajectories, and diffusive transport of higher-energy (greater than or approximately 160 keV) ions contributes little to the stormtime ring current. However, the stormtime ring current is augmented also by the diffusive transport of higher-energy ions (E greater than or approximately 160 keV) durinng stroms having longer main phases (greater than or approximately 6 hr). In order to account for the increase in Dst associated with the formation of the stormtime ring current, we estimate the enhancement in particle-energy content that results from stormtime ion transport in the equatorial magnetosphere. We find that transport alone cannot account for the entire increase in absolute value of Dst typical of a major storm. However, we can account for the entire increase in absolute value of Dst by realistically increasing the stormtime outer boundary value of the phase space density relative to the quiet-time value. We compute the magnetic field produced by the ring current itself and find that radial profiles of the magnetic field depression resemble those obtained from observational data.

Chen, Margaret W.↗

Effect of iodides on thermal behavior and phase partitioning in LiCl-KCl

Liquid-fueled molten salt reactors (MSRs) are designed to operate with fissile materials and, ultimately, fission products dissolved in the primary molten salt coolant. Understanding the speciation and transport of iodine—a high-yield fission product—is essential because this element’s accidental release poses significant environmental concerns due to its capacity to be readily absorbed by the human thyroid gland. Here, we report the impact of iodide species (LiI and KI) on phase transitions, phase distribution, and phase stability in LiCl–KCl-eutectic salt mixtures. The study employed a combination of computational and experimental techniques, including thermodynamic FactSage calculations, differential scanning calorimetry, and high-temperature X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that the presence of iodide (10–25 wt%) significantly alters the melting behavior of the LiCl–KCleutectic system. Adding 10 wt% LiI has a more-pronounced effect than 10 wt% KI, as LiI converts to KI, leading to formation of LiCl, thereby, altering the LiCl-KCl ratio which significantly affects the melting temperature of the mixture. Furthermore, the evolution of crystalline structure, solid-fraction composition, and the dynamics of mixed-halide solid–liquid partitioning as a function of temperature indicate the potential for selective iodide separation from chloride-salt mixtures via solid–liquid separation techniques. Overall, the presented findings provide valuable insights that are beneficial for the design and operation of MSRs, as well as for the safe handling and effective processing of used nuclear fuel using advanced pyrochemical techniques.

11 - NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

Satellite Power Systems /SPS/ - Overview of system studies and critical technology

Systems studies and critical technology issues for the development and evaluation of Satellite Power Systems (SPS) for the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy and its transmission to earth are reviewed. Initial concept studies completed in 1976 and system definition studies initiated in the same year have indicated the technical feasibility of SPS and identified challenging issues to be addressed as part of the SPS Concept Development and Evaluation Program. Systems considered in the study include photovoltaic and solar thermal power conversion configurations employing klystron or solid state microwave generators or lasers for power transmission, and power transmission options, system constructability and in-orbit and ground operations. Technology investigations are being performed in the areas of microwave power transmission, structure/controls interactions and the behavior of key materials in the space/SPS environment. Favorable results have been obtained in the areas of microwave phase distribution and phase control, dc-RF conversion, antenna radiating element, and no insurmountable problems have been discovered in any of the investigations to date.

Manson, S. V.↗

MOBI: Microgravity Observations of Bubble Interactions

One of the greatest uncertainties affecting the design of multiphase flow technologies for space exploration is the spatial distribution of phases that will arise in microgravity or reduced gravity. On Earth, buoyancy-driven motion predominates whereas the shearing of the bubble suspension controls its behavior in microgravity. We are conducting a series of ground-based experiments and a flight experiment spanning the full range of ratios of buoyancy to shear. These include: (1) bubbles rising in a quiescent liquid in a vertical channel; (2) weak shear flow induced by slightly inclining the channel; (3) moderate shear flow in a terrestrial vertical pipe flow; and (4) shearing of a bubble suspension in a cylindrical Couette cell in microgravity. We consider nearly monodisperse suspensions of 1 to 1.8 mm diameter bubbles in aqueous electrolyte solutions. The liquid velocity disturbance produced by bubbles in this size range can often be described using an inviscid analysis. Electrolytic solutions lead to hydrophilic repulsion forces that stabilize the bubble suspension without causing Marangoni stresses. We will discuss the mechanisms that control the flow behavior and phase distribution in the ground-based experiments and speculate on the factors that may influence the suspension flow and bubble volume fraction distribution in the flight experiment.

Koch, Donald L.↗

Measurements of the Five-Dimensional Phase Space Distribution of an Intense Ion Beam

No simulation of intense beam transport has accurately reproduced measurements at the level of beam halo. One potential explanation of this discrepancy is a lack of knowledge of the initial distribution of particles in six-dimensional (6D) phase space. A direct 6D measurement of an ion beam was recently performed at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) Beam Test Facility (BTF), revealing nonlinear transverse-longitudinal correlations in the beam core that affect downstream evolution. Unfortunately, direct 6D measurements are limited in resolution and dynamic range; here, we discuss the use of three slits and one screen to measure a 5D projection of the 6D phase space distribution, overcoming these limitations at the cost of one dimension. We examine the measured 5D distribution before and after transport through the BTF and compare to particle-in-cell simulations. We also discuss the possibility of reconstructing the 6D distribution from 5D and 4D projections.

Hoover, Austin↗

Multi-Timescale Three-Phase Unbalanced Distribution System Operation With Variable Renewable Generations

This paper proposes a multi-timescale operational approach for a three-phase unbalanced distribution system, which contains hourly scheduling at substation level and minutes power flow operation at feeder level. In the substation scheduling model, the objective is to minimize the system cost with variable renewable generations. The given error distribution model of renewable generation is formulated as a chance constraint, and derived into a deterministic form by Gaussian mixture model (GMM) with genetic algorithm-based expectation-maximization (GAEM). In the feeder scheduling model, the system cost is further reduced with the optimal power flow (OPF) at a timescale of minutes. Considering the nonconvexity of the three-phase unbalanced OPF problem in distribution systems, the semidefinite programming (SDP) is used to relax the problem into a convex problem, and a distributed computation approach is built based on alternating direction method of multiplier (ADMM). The IEEE 123-bus distribution system, DU (University of Denver) campus distribution system, and the IEEE 8500-bus distribution system are used as the test bench for the proposed approach. And the numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness and validity of the proposed method.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

Pickup Ion Phase Space Distributions at Titan in a Three Dimensional Exosphere

The composition and structure of neutral exospheres imbedded in moving plasmas can be determined by measurements of the velocity distributions of their pickup ion progeny. In turn, the velocity distributions are dependent on the spatial structure of the neutral source gases. Since Titan's neutral exosphere extends into the Saturn's magnetosphere (or solar wind) and well above its ionopause, it serves as a good place to analyze such characteristics. They are analyzed using pickup ion measurements made by the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) at Titan [e.g., Hartle et al., 2006] and an ion kinetic model. An early version of the model [Hartle and Sittler, 2007] is an expression describing the phase space density of pickup ions, which is derived from the Vlasov equation with an ion source that explicitly accounts for the velocity and spatial variation of the exosphere source gases. The current version used here includes exosphere source gases in three dimensions. A fundamental parameter of the phase space densities is the ratio of the gyroradius to the neutral scale height alpha, = r(sub g)/H. Titan's exosphere structure yields pickup ions whose phase space distributions are beam-like when alpha >> 1 and fluid-like when alpha << 1. Downstream from the source peak, the light pickup ions, with alpha << 1, are easily observed because their phase space densities are almost uniform over the orbit phases. On the other hand, the phase space distributions of the heavier ions, with alpha >> 1, peak over narrow velocity and spatial ranges. This beam-like nature makes it considerably more difficult to observe heavy ions because their downstream positions and viewing directions are narrowly constrained. Examples of these extremes will be discussed.

Hartle, Richard↗

Design and breadboard evaluation of the SPS reference phase control system concept

The total breadboard system includes one pilot transmitter, one pilot receiver, nine phase distribution units, and two power transponders. With this complement of equipment, segments of a typical phase distribution system can be assembled to facilitate the evaluation of significant system parameters. The achievable accuracy of a large phase distribution system, the sensitivity of the system to parameter variations, and the limitations of commercially available components in such applications were determined.

Hopkins, P. M.↗