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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

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NASA NTRS1975

Preliminary study of the minimum temperatures for valid testing in a cryogenic wind tunnel

The minimum operating temperature which avoids real-gas effects, such as condensation, was determined for M sub infinity = 0.85 flow over a 0.137-meter NACA 0012-64 airfoil mounted in the Langley 1/3-meter transonic cryogenic tunnel. For temperatures within 5 K of reservoir saturation and total pressures from 1.2 to 4.5 atmospheres, the pressure distributions over the airfoil are not altered by real-gas effects. This ability to test at total temperatures below those which avoid saturation over the airfoil allows an increase in Reynolds number capability of at least 17 percent for a constant tunnel total pressure. Similarly, 17 percent less total pressure is required to obtain a given Reynolds number.

Hall, R. M.↗

NASA NTRS1979

Thermionic energy converter investigations

This paper presents evaluation of a variety of thermionic converter configurations to obtain improved efficiency. A variable-spacing diode using an iridium emitter gave emission properties comparable to platinum, but the power output from a sintered LaB6 collector diode was not consistent with its work function. Reflectivities above 0.5 were measured at thermal energies on oxygenated-cesiated surfaces using a field emission retarding potential gun. Performance of converters with structured electrodes and the characteristics of a pulsed triode were studied as a function of emitter, collector, cesium reservoir, interelectrode spacing, xenon pressure, and pulsing parameters.

Goodale, D. B.↗

NASA NTRS1982

Study of vapor flow into a capillary acquisition device

An analytical model was developed that prescribes the conditions for vapor flow through the window screen of a start basket. Several original submodels were developed as part of this model. The submodels interrelate such phenomena as the effect of internal evaporation of the liquid, the bubble point change of a screen in the presence of wicking, the conditions for drying out of a screen through a combination of evaporation and pressure difference, the vapor inflow rate across a wet screen as a function of pressure difference, and the effect on wicking of a difference between the static pressure of the liquid reservoir and the surrounding vapor. Most of these interrelations were verified by a series of separate effects tests, which were also used to determine certain empirical constants in the models. The equations of the model were solved numerically for typical start basket designs, and a simplified start basket was constructed to verify the predictions, using both volatile and nonvolatile test liquids. The test results verified the trends predicted by the model.

Dodge, F. T.↗

NASA NTRS1983

Vapor flow into a capillary propellant-acquisition device

An analytical model is described that specifies the conditions needed to cause a flow of vapor through the screens of a start basket. The analytical model is composed of several original submodels that interrelate the evaporation of the liquid in the basket, the bubble-point change of a screen in the presence of wicking, the drying out of a screen through a combination of evaporation and pressure difference, the vapor flow rate across a wet screen as a function of pressure difference, and the effect on wicking of a difference between the static pressure of the liquid reservoir and the vapor surrounding the screen. Most of the interrelations were demonstrated by a series of separate-effects tests, which were also used to determine certain empirical constants. The equations of the model were solved numerically for typical start basket designs. A simplified start basket was constructed and tested to verify these predictions, using both volatile and non-volatile liquids. The test results verified the trends predicted by the model.

Dodge, F. T.↗

NASA NTRS1990

A new, simple electrostatic-acoustic hybrid levitator

Battelle has developed a hybrid levitator by combining the known single-axis acoustic standing wave levitator with a coaxial DC electric field. The resulting Coulomb forces on the charged liquid or solid sample support its weight and, together with the acoustic force, center the sample. Liquid samples with volumes approximately less than 100 micro-liters are deployed from a syringe reservoir into the acoustic pressure node. The sample is charged using a miniature high voltage power supply (approximately less than 20 kV) connected to the syringe needle. As the electric field, generated by a second miniature power supply, is increased, the acoustic intensity is reduced. The combination of both fields allows stable levitation of samples larger than either single technique could position on the ground. Decreasing the acoustic intensity reduces acoustic convection and sample deformation. Neither the electrostatic nor the acoustic field requires sample position sensing or active control. The levitator, now used for static and dynamic fluid physics investigations on the ground, can be easily modified for space operations.

Lierke, E. G.↗

NASA NTRS2004

Thermal Control Utilizing an Thermal Control Utilizing an Two-Phase Loop with High Heat Flux Source

The electric field applied in dielectric fluids causes an imbalance in the dissociation-recombination reaction generated free space charges. The generated charges are redistributed by the applied electric field resulting in the heterocharge layers in the Vicinity of the electrodes. Proper design of the electrodes generates net axial flow motion pumping the fluid. The electrohydrodynamic (EHD) conduction pump is a new device that pumps dielectric fluids utilizing heterocharge layers formed by imposition of electrostatic fields. This paper evaluates the experimental performance of a two-phase breadboard thermal control loop consisting of an EHD conduction pump, condenser, pre-heater, high heat flux evaporator (HE), transport lines, and reservoir (accumulator). The generated pressure head and the maximum applicable heat flux are experimentally determined at various applied voltages and sink temperatures. Recovery from dryout condition by increasing the applied voltage to the pump is also demonstrated.

Jeong, Seong-Il↗

NASA NTRS1983

Prosthetic occlusive device for an internal passageway

An occlusive device is disclosed for surgical implant to occlude the lumen of an internal organ. The device includes a cuff having a backing collar and two isolated cuff chambers. The fluid pressure of one chamber is regulated by a pump/valve reservoir unit. The other chamber is unregulated in pressure but its fluid volume is adjusted by removing or adding fluid to a septum/reservoir by means of a hypodermic needle. Pressure changes are transmitted between the two cuff chambers via faying surfaces which are sufficiently large in contact area and thin as to transmit pressure generally without attenuation. By adjusting the fluid volume of the septum, the operating pressure of the device may be adjusted to accommodate tubular organs of different diameter sizes as well as to compensate for changes in the organ following implant without reoperation.

Tenney, J. B., Jr.↗

NASA NTRS2017

Imaging a Free-Geometry Magma Reservoir Using FEM-Based Linear Inverse Modeling of InSAR Data: Application to Rabaul Caldera, Papua New Guinea

We test an innovative inversion scheme using Green’s functions from an array of pressure sources embedded in finite-element method (FEM) models to image, without assuming an a-priori geometry, the composite and complex shape of a volcano deformation source. We invert interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data to estimate the pressurization and shape of the magma reservoir of Rabaul caldera, Papua New Guinea. The results image the extended shallow magmatic system responsible for a broad and long-term subsidence of the caldera between 2007 February and 2010 December. Elastic FEM solutions are integrated into the regularized linear inversion of InSAR data of volcano surface displacements in order to obtain a 3-D image of the source of deformation. The Green’s function matrix is constructed from a library of forward line-of-sight displacement solutions for a grid of cubic elementary deformation sources. Each source is sequentially generated by removing the corresponding cubic elements from a common meshed domain and simulating the injection of a fluid mass flux into the cavity, which results in a pressurization and volumetric change of the fluidfilled cavity. The use of a single mesh for the generation of all FEM models avoids the computationally expensive process of non-linear inversion and remeshing a variable geometry domain. Without assuming an a-priori source geometry other than the configuration of the 3-D grid that generates the library of Green’s functions, the geodetic data dictate the geometry of the magma reservoir as a 3-D distribution of pressure (or flux of magma) within the source array. The inversion of InSAR data of Rabaul caldera shows a distribution of interconnected sources forming an amorphous, shallow magmatic system elongated under two opposite sides of the caldera. The marginal areas at the sides of the imaged magmatic system are the possible feeding reservoirs of the ongoing Tavurvur volcano eruption of andesitic products on the east side and of the past Vulcan volcano eruptions of more evolved materials on the west side. The interconnection and spatial distributions of sources correspond to the petrography of the volcanic products described in the literature and to the dynamics of the single and twin eruptions that characterize the caldera. The ability to image the complex geometry of deformation sources in both space and time can improve our ability to monitor active volcanoes, widen our understanding of the dynamics of active volcanic systems and improve the predictions of eruptions.

Inverse theory↗

NASA NTRS2017

Imaging the Complex Geometry of a Magma Reservoir Using Fem-Based Linear Inverse Modeling of InSAR Data: Application to Rabaul Caldera, Papua New Guinea

We test an innovative inversion scheme using Green’s functions from an array of pressure sources embedded in finite-element method (FEM) models to image, without assuming an a-priori geometry, the composite and complex shape of a volcano deformation source. We invert interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data to estimate the pressurization and shape of the magma reservoir of Rabaul caldera, Papua New Guinea. The results image the extended shallow magmatic system responsible for a broad and long-term subsidence of the caldera between 2007 February and 2010 December. Elastic FEM solutions are integrated into the regularized linear inversion of InSAR data of volcano surface displacements in order to obtain a 3-D image of the source of deformation. The Green’s function matrix is constructed from a library of forward line-of-sight displacement solutions for a grid of cubic elementary deformation sources. Each source is sequentially generated by removing the corresponding cubic elements from a common meshed domain and simulating the injection of a fluid mass flux into the cavity, which results in a pressurization and volumetric change of the fluid-filled cavity. The use of a single mesh for the generation of all FEM models avoids the computationally expensive process of non-linear inversion and remeshing a variable geometry domain. Without assuming an a-priori source geometry other than the configuration of the 3-D grid that generates the library of Green’s functions, the geodetic data dictate the geometry of the magma reservoir as a 3-D distribution of pressure (or flux of magma) within the source array. The inversion of InSAR data of Rabaul caldera shows a distribution of interconnected sources forming an amorphous, shallow magmatic system elongated under two opposite sides of the caldera. The marginal areas at the sides of the imaged magmatic system are the possible feeding reservoirs of the ongoing Tavurvur volcano eruption of andesitic products on the east side and of the past Vulcan volcano eruptions of more evolved materials on the west side. The interconnection and spatial distributions of sources correspond to the petrography of the volcanic products described in the literature and to the dynamics of the single and twin eruptions that characterize the caldera. The ability to image the complex geometry of deformation sources in both space and time can improve our ability to monitor active volcanoes, widen our understanding of the dynamics of active volcanic systems and improve the predictions of eruptions.

Inverse theory↗

NASA NTRS1992

Effect of purity on adsorption capacities of a Mars-like clay mineral at different pressures

There has been considerable interest in adsorption of carbon dioxide on Marslike clay minerals. Some estimates of the carbon dioxide reservoir capacity of the martian regolith were calculated from the amount of carbon dioxide adsorbed on the ironrich smectite nontronite under martian conditions. The adsorption capacity of pure nontronite could place upper limits on the regolith carbon dioxide reservoir, both at present martian atmospheric pressure and at the postulated higher pressures required to permit liquid water on the surface. Adsorption of carbon dioxide on a Clay Mineral Society standard containing nontronite was studied over a wide range of pressures in the absence of water. Similar experiments were conducted on the pure nontronite extracted from the natural sample. Heating curves were obtained to help characterize and determine the purity of the clay sample.

Jenkins, Traci↗

NASA NTRS2008

Thermally Driven Josephson Effect

A concept is proposed of the thermally driven Josephson effect in superfluid helium. Heretofore, the Josephson effect in a superfluid has been recognized as an oscillatory flow that arises in response to a steady pressure difference between two superfluid reservoirs separated by an array of submicron-sized orifices, which act in unison as a single Josephson junction. Analogously, the thermally driven Josephson effect is an oscillatory flow that arises in response to a steady temperature difference. The thermally driven Josephson effect is partly a consequence of a quantum- mechanical effect known as the fountain effect, in which a temperature difference in a superfluid is accompanied by a pressure difference. The thermally driven Josephson effect may have significance for the development of a high-resolution gyroscope based on the Josephson effect in a superfluid: If the pressure-driven Josephson effect were used, then the fluid on the high-pressure side would become depleted, necessitating periodic interruption of operation to reverse the pressure difference. If the thermally driven Josephson effect were used, there would be no net flow and so the oscillatory flow could be maintained indefinitely by maintaining the required slightly different temperatures on both sides of the junction.

Penanen, Konstantin↗

NASA NTRS2005

Electromagnetic Pumps for Conductive-Propellant Feed Systems

There has been a recent, renewed interest in high-power electric thrusters for application in nuclear-electric propulsion systems. Two of the most promising thrusters utilize liquid metal propellants: the lithium-fed magnetoplasmadynamic thruster and the bismuth-fed Hall thruster. An important element of part of the maturation of these thrusters will be the development of compact, reliable conductive-propellant feed system components. In the present paper we provide design considerations and experimental calibration data for electromagnetic (EM) pumps. The role of an electromagnetic pump in a liquid metal feed system is to establish a pressure gradient between the propellant reservoir and the thruster - to establish the requisite mass flow rate. While EM pumps have previously been used to a limited extent in nuclear reactor cooling loops, they have never been implemented in electric propulsion (EP) systems. The potential benefit of using EM pumps for EP are reliability (no moving parts) and the ability to precisely meter the propellant flow rate. We have constructed and tested EM pumps that use gallium, lithium, and bismuth propellants. Design details, test results (pressure developed versus current), and material compatibility issues are reported. It is concluded that EM pumps are a viable technology for application in both laboratory and flight EP conductive-propellant feed systems.

Markusic, T. E.↗

NASA NTRS2010

Microfluidic device for drug delivery

A microfluidic device is provided for delivering a drug to an individual. The microfluidic device includes a body that defines a reservoir for receiving the drug therein. A valve interconnects the reservoir to an output needle that is insertable into the skin of an individual. A pressure source urges the drug from the reservoir toward the needle. The valve is movable between a closed position preventing the flow of the drug from the reservoir to the output needle and an open position allowing for the flow of the drug from the reservoir to the output needle in response to a predetermined condition in the physiological fluids of the individual.

Beebe, David J.↗

NASA NTRS2014

Micro-Fluidic Device for Drug Delivery

Beebe, David J.↗

NASA NTRS1971

Hypothalamic stimulation and baroceptor reflex interaction on renal nerve activity.

The basal level of mean renal nerve activity (MRNA-0) measured in anesthetized cats was found to be modified by the additive interaction of hypothalamic and baroceptor reflex influences. Data were collected with the four major baroceptor nerves either intact or cut, and with mean aortic pressure (MAP) either clamped with a reservoir or raised with l-epinephrine. With intact baroceptor nerves, MRNA stayed essentially constant at level MRNA-0 for MAP below an initial pressure P1, and fell approximately linearly to zero as MAP was raised to P2. Cutting the baroceptor nerves kept MRNA at MRNA-0 (assumed to represent basal central neural output) independent of MAP. The addition of hypothalamic stimulation produced nearly constant increments in MRNA for all pressure levels up to P2, with complete inhibition at some level above P2. The increments in MRNA depended on frequency and location of the stimulus. A piecewise linear model describes MRNA as a linear combination of hypothalamic, basal central neural, and baroceptor reflex activity.

Wilson, M. F.↗

NASA NTRS2015

Pyrotechnically Actuated Gas Generator Utilizing Aqueous Methanol

A gas-generating device was developed to supplement the ram-air inflation of a supersonic ballute. The device is designed to initially pressurize the ballute following deployment, exposing and orienting its ram-air inlets to free-stream air for complete inflation. The supplemental pressurization decreases the total inflation time, and increases the likelihood of a successful inflation. The device contains a reservoir filled with an aqueous mixture of methanol that, when released in to the interior of the ballute, rapidly vaporizes due to the low ambient pressure. Upon activation of the device, a pair of redundant ring mechanisms initiate pyrotechnic charges that pressurize and rupture the reservoir, resulting in ejection of the methanol in to the ballute. In addition to its role in inflation, the device serves as the structural connection to the ballute. Analytical models were developed for the inflation capability of the device, which were verified using vacuum chamber testing of developmental hardware. Static, deployment, and environmental testing demonstrated the functionality of the ring mechanism and reservoir under several temperature and pressure conditions. Finally, the device was successfully operated during the first Supersonic Flight Dynamics Test (SFDT) of NASA's Low Density Supersonic Decelerator (LDSD) project. The design architecture is scalable to accommodate different quantities of gas generation, can be adjusted to operate in a variety of temperature and atmospheric pressure regimes, and provides a robust device that may be installed with minimal risk to personnel or hardware.

IA↗

NASA NTRS1990

Wet atmospheric generation apparatus

The invention described relates to an apparatus for providing a selectively humidified gas to a camera canister containing cameras and film used in space. A source of pressurized gas (leak test gas or motive gas) is selected by a valve, regulated to a desired pressure by a regulator, and routed through an ejector (venturi device). A regulated source of water vapor in the form of steam from a heated reservoir is coupled to a low pressure region of the ejector which mixes with high velocity gas flow through the ejector. This mixture is sampled by a dew point sensor to obtain dew point thereof (ratio of water vapor to gas) and the apparatus adjusted by varying gas pressure or water vapor to provide a mixture at a connector having selected humidity content.

Hamner, Richard M.↗

NASA NTRS2012

Quality Control Method for a Micro-Nano-Channel Microfabricated Device

A variety of silicon-fabricated devices is used in medical applications such as drug and cell delivery, and DNA and protein separation and analysis. When a fluidic device inlet is connected to a compressed gas reservoir, and the outlet is at a lower pressure, a gas flow occurs through the membrane toward the outside. The method relies on the measurement of the gas pressure over the elapsed time inside the upstream and downstream environments. By knowing the volume of the upstream reservoir, the gas flow rate through the membrane over the pressure drop can be calculated. This quality control method consists of measuring the gas flow through a device and comparing the results with a standard curve, which can be obtained by testing standard devices. Standard devices can be selected through a variety of techniques, both destructive and nondestructive, such as SEM, AFM, and standard particle filtration.

Grattoni, Alessandro↗