THE STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF VISCOELASTIC MATERIALS
Structural analysis of viscoelastic solid propellant grains
SOLID PROPELLANT↗
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A Circularity Assessment for Silicon Solar Panels Based on Dynamic Material Flow Analysis
This paper examines the impacts of design, operational, and end-of-life (EOL) waste pathways’ parameters on material circularity in silicon solar photovoltaic (PV) modules. Dynamic material flow analysis (DMFA) quantifies time-series material flows through systems’ life cycle stages to identify hotspots of waste generation, estimate resource needs in the future, and guide sustainable material management. We introduce a DMFA framework based on U.S. electricity demand for the period 2000-2100 to assess stocks and flows of bulk PV materials (i.e., solar glass and aluminum frames). We apply the model to a range of scenarios to understand how material demands depend on selected PV-related parameters, different material circularity strategies, and recent module design trends (e.g., bifacials, large-format-high power modules). Our results enable advanced planning for future materials needs and provide insight into potential opportunities to minimize material waste.
circular economy↗
Nature of the Martian surface as inferred from the particle-size distribution of lunar-surface material.
Analysis of lunar particle size distribution data indicates that the surface material is composed of two populations. One population is caused by comminution from the impact of the larger-sized meteorites, while the other population is caused by the melting of fine material by the impact of smaller-sized meteorites. The results are referred to Mars, and it is shown that the Martian atmosphere would vaporize the smaller incoming meteorites and retard the incoming meteorites of intermediate and large size, causing comminution and stirring of the particulate layer. The combination of comminution and stirring would result in fine material being sorted out by the prevailing circulation of the Martian atmosphere and the material being transported to regions where it could be deposited. As a result, the Martian surface in regions of prevailing upward circulation is probably covered by either a rubble layer or by desert pavement; regions of prevailing downward circulation are probably covered by sand dunes.
Mason, C. C.↗
Material Properties Analysis of Structural Members in Pumpkin Balloons
The efficient design, service-life qualification, and reliability predictions for lightweight aerospace structures require careful mechanical properties analysis of candidate structural materials. The demand for high-quality laboratory data is particularly acute when the candidate material or the structural design has little history. The pumpkin-shaped super-pressure balloon presents both challenges. Its design utilizes load members (tendons) extending from apex to base around the gas envelope to achieve a lightweight structure. The candidate tendon material is highly weight-efficient braided HM cord. Previous mechanical properties studies of Zylon have focused on fiber and yarn, and industrial use of the material in tensile applications is limited. For high-performance polymers, a carefully plamed and executed properties analysis scheme is required to ensure the data are relevant to the desired application. Because no directly-applicable testing standard was available, a protocol was developed based on guidelines fiom professional and industry organizations. Due to the liquid-crystalline nature of the polymer, the cord is very stiff, creeps very little, and does not yield. Therefore, the key material property for this application is the breaking strength. The pretension load and gauge length were found to have negligible effect on the measured breaking strength over the ranges investigated. Strain rate was found to have no effect on breaking strength, within the range of rates suggested by the standards organizations. However, at the lower rate more similar to ULDB operations, the strength was reduced. The breaking strength increased when the experiment temperature was decreased from ambient to 183K which is the lowest temperature ULDB is expected to experience. The measured strength under all test conditions was well below that resulting from direct scale-up of fiber strength based on the manufacturers data. This expected result is due to the effects of the braiding process and material ageing.
Sterling, W. J.↗
In situ liquid SIMS analysis of uranium oxide
Trace analysis of nuclear materials in solid particles collected in the environment or particles in liquid slurry generated in nuclear material manufacturing processes can pinpoint elemental, organic, and isotopic signatures of nuclear fuel cycle activities and processes. Such information can support nuclear safeguards programs by increasing our ability to detect undeclared nuclear materials, routine activities for safeguarding at declared facilities, and illicit activities. However, trace radioactive material analysis in liquids and slurries is challenging using bulk approaches. For example, one drawback of sensitive analysis such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is that sample is consumed or destroyed as a result of the technical approach. We developed a vacuum compatible microfluidic interface to enable surface analysis of liquids and liquid-solid interactions using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). In this work, we illustrate initial results of liquid standards containing uranium using in situ liquid SIMS. Specifically a series of diluted uranium standards used for ICPMS analysis were studied and the limit of detection was estimated. Since the liquid SIMS analysis is almost nondestructive, the same sample can be analyzed by other more destructive approaches afterwards or saved for future references. Consequently, multimodal analysis is possible. Our results demonstrate that in situ liquid SIMS can be used as a new approach to analyze radioactive materials in liquid and slurry forms of relevance to the IAEA safeguards missions.
In situ liquid ToF-SIMS, uranium, limit of detecti↗
Proceedings of the LDEF Materials Data Analysis Workshop
The 5-year, 10-month flight of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) greatly enhanced the potential value of most LDEF materials, compared to the original 1-year flight plan. NASA recognized this potential by forming the LDEF Space Environmental Effects on Materials Special Investigation Group in early 1989 to address the expanded opportunities available in the LDEF structure and on experimental trays, so that the value of all LDEF materials to current and future space missions would be assessed and documented. The LDEF Materials Data Analysis Workshop served as one step toward the realization of that responsibility and ran concurrently with activities surrounding the successful return of the spacecraft to the NASA Kennedy Space Center. A compilation of visual aids utilized by speakers at the workshop is presented. Session 1 summarized current information on analysis responsibilities and plans and was aimed at updating the workshop attendees: the LDEF Advisory Committee, Principle Investigators, Special Investigation Group Members, and others involved in LDEF analyses or management. Sessions 2 and 3 addressed materials data analysis methodology, specimen preparation, shipment and archival, and initial plans for the LDEF Materials Data Base. A complementary objective of the workshop was to stimulate interest and awareness of opportunities to vastly expand the overall data base by considering the entire spacecraft as a materials experiment.
Stein, Bland A.↗
Analysis of RF losses and material characterization of samples removed from a Nb 3 Sn-coated superconducting RF cavity
Nb 3 Sn (T c ≈18 K and H sh ≈400 mT) is a prospective material to replace Nb (T c ≈9 K and H sh ≈200 mT) in SRF accelerator cavities for significant cost reduction and performance enhancement. Because of its material properties, Nb3Sn is best employed as a thin film (coating) inside an already built RF cavity structure. A particular test cavity noted as C3C4 was a 1.5 GHz single-cell Nb cavity, coated with Nb3Sn using Sn vapor diffusion process at Jefferson Lab. Cold measurements of the coated cavity indicated the superconducting transition temperature of about 18 K. Subsequent RF measurements indicated field-dependent surface resistance both at 4.3 K and 2.0 K. After initial cold measurements, the cavity RF loss distribution was studied with a thermometry mapping system. Loss regions were identified with thermometry and were cut out for material analysis. The presence of significantly thin patchy regions and other carbon-rich defects is associated with strong local field-dependent surface resistance. This paper summarizes RF and thermometry results correlated with material science findings.
75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
Quantitative Electron Beam‐Single Atom Interactions Enabled by Sub‐20‐pm Precision Targeting
The ability to probe and control matter at the picometer scale is essential for advancing quantum and energy technologies. Scanning transmission electron microscopy offers powerful capabilities for materials analysis and modification, but sample damage, drift, and scan distortions hinder single atom analysis and deterministic manipulation. Materials analysis and modification via electron–solid interactions can be transformed by precise delivery of electrons to a specified atomic location, maintaining the beam position despite drift, and minimizing collateral dose. Here a fast, low-dose, sub-20-pm precision electron beam positioning technique is developed, “atomic lock-on,” (ALO), which offers the ability to position the beam on a specific atomic column without previously irradiating that column. This technique is used to lock onto a single selected atomic location to repeatedly measure its weak electron energy loss signal despite sample drift. Moreover, electron beam-matter interactions in single atomic events are measured with μ s time resolution. This enables observation of single-atom dynamics, such as atomic bistability, revealing partially bonded atomic configurations and recapture phenomena. This opens prospects for using electron microscopy for high-precision measurements and deterministic control of matter for quantum technologies.
2D materials↗
AGC 3 Irradiated Material Properties Analysis
This report documents the analysis of the irradiated material property data from the Advanced Graphite Creep (AGC)-3 graphite specimens. This is the third in a series of six irradiation test trains planned as part of the AGC experiment to fully characterize the neutron irradiation effects and radiation creep behavior of current nuclear graphite grades. The AGC-3 capsule was irradiated in the Idaho National Laboratory Advanced Test Reactor at a nominal temperature of 800°C, beginning with irradiation Cycle 152B on November 28, 2012 and ending with Cycle 155B on April 12, 2014, with a total received dose range of 0.9–3.7 dpa. Larger creep and control specimens located more centrally in the capsule received a dose of 1.0 – 3.7 dpa. AGC-3 was designed to provide irradiation conditions similar to AGC-1 and AGC-2 capsules (similar graphite grades tested, specimen dimensions, mechanical loading conditions) but at a different nominal irradiation temperature of 800°C. AGC-3 was irradiated for a short duration to provide material property values at lower dose levels. AGC-4 will have a longer duration and provide material property values at higher dose levels. After irradiation, material property and dimensional strain measurements were conducted on all AGC-3 specimens (from 11 nuclear graphite grades) using the same equipment and approved standards as were conducted before irradiation. The specimen loading configuration for all graphite grades within AGC-3 followed a similar pattern as earlier AGC capsules to provide easy future comparison of all irradiated material property data.
11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗
Initial Assessment of X-Ray Computer Tomography image analysis for material defect microstructure
The original development work leading to this report was focused on the non destructive three-dimensional (3-D) characterization of nuclear graphite as a means to better understand the nature of the inherent pore structure. The pore structure of graphite and its evolution under various environmental factors such as irradiation, mechanical stress, and oxidation plays an important role in their observed properties and characteristics. If we are to transition from an empirical understanding of graphite behavior to a truly predictive mechanistic understanding the pore structure must be well characterized and understood. As the pore structure within nuclear graphite is highly interconnected and truly 3-D in nature, 3-D characterization techniques are critical. While 3-D characterization has been an excellent tool for graphite pore characterization, it is applicable to a broad number of materials systems over many length scales. Given the wide range of applications and the highly quantitative nature of the tool, it is quite surprising to discover how few materials researchers understand and how valuable of a tool 3-D image processing and analysis can be. Ultimately, this report is intended to encourage broader use of 3 D image processing and analysis in materials science and engineering applications, more specifically nuclear-related materials applications, by providing interested readers with enough familiarity to explore its vast potential in identifying microstructure changes. To encourage this broader use, the report is divided into two main sections. Section 2 provides an overview of some of the key principals and concepts needed to extract a wide variety of quantitative metrics from a 3-D representation of a material microstructure. The discussion includes a brief overview of segmentation methods, connective components, morphological operations, distance transforms, and skeletonization. Section 3 focuses on the application of concepts from Section 2 to relevant materials at Idaho National Laboratory. In this section, image analysis examples featuring nuclear graphite will be discussed in detail. Additionally, example analyses from Transient Reactor Test Facility low-enriched uranium conversion, Advanced Gas Reactor like compacts, and tristructural isotopic particles are shown to give a broader perspective of the applicability to relevant materials of interest.
21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗
Proliferation of Faulty Materials Data Analysis in the Literature
As a group of subject matter experts in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), we write this letter to raise awareness of the epidemic of poor and incorrect materials data analysis in the Literature. This is a chronic and growing problem with very undesirable consequences. This issue may contribute to what has been identified as a “reproducibility crisis”1,2 that was the subject of a recent U.S. National Academies study. We are using XPS as one example of what we observe to be a systemic issue.
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
3D Material Response Analysis of PICA Pyrolysis Experiments
The PICA decomposition experiments of Bessire and Minton are investigated using 3D material response analysis. The steady thermoelectric equations have been added to the CHAR code to enable analysis of the Joule-heated experiments and the DAKOTA optimization code is used to define the voltage boundary condition that yields the experimentally observed temperature response. This analysis has identified a potential spatial non-uniformity in the PICA sample temperature driven by the cooled copper electrodes and thermal radiation from the surface of the test article (Figure 1). The non-uniformity leads to a variable heating rate throughout the sample volume that has an effect on the quantitative results of the experiment. Averaging the results of integrating a kinetic reaction mechanism with the heating rates seen across the sample volume yield a shift of peak species production to lower temperatures that is more significant for higher heating rates (Figure 2) when compared to integrating the same mechanism at the reported heating rate. The analysis supporting these conclusions will be presented along with a proposed analysis procedure that permits quantitative use of the existing data. Time permitting, a status on the in-development kinetic decomposition mechanism based on this data will be presented as well.
Oliver, A. Brandon↗
Dynamic Material Flow Analysis of Silicon Photovoltaic Modules to Support a Circular Economy Transition
Solar photovoltaics (PV) are the fastest growing renewable energy technologies for clean, cheap, and sustainable electricity generation. To prepare for rapid scale-up, the PV industry needs to project material requirements to build out all aspects of the supply chain appropriately and plan to handle large volumes of module waste. Impacts of deploying different material circularity strategies to reduce waste and conserve primary resources need to be quantified to inform sustainable material management. Here, we introduce the photovoltaic dynamic material flow analysis (PV DMFA) model based on PV electricity generation. The model quantifies material flows and stocks in the cradle-to-cradle life cycles of utility-scale c-Si PV systems in the United States through 2100. We present case studies for solar flat glass and aluminum frame materials under various scenarios to project the impacts of PV performance, reliability, and processing parameters, material circularity strategies, and module design shifts. In the absence of circularity measures, ~100 million MT of flat glass and ~12 million MT of aluminum would be needed for PV installations by 2100 to meet projected growth in domestic utility PV demand to nearly 1000 TWh in 2100. With optimistic but feasible improvements in efficiency, reliability, and circularity, material intensity and waste could be reduced by nearly 50%. Efficient module collection, minimally intrusive recycling, and careful scrap handling and cleaning could improve material circularity in the PV value chain. This model serves as a sustainability data support tool that may aid in the circular economy transition for PV systems.
circular economy↗
Focused ion beam for improved spatially-resolved mass spectrometry and analysis of radioactive materials for uranium isotopic analysis
Not Available
46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
A Circularity Assessment for Silicon Solar Panels Based on Dynamic Material Flow Analysis
Solar photovoltaics (PV) are the fastest growing renewable energy technology for clean, inexpensive, and sustainable electricity generation. Along with numerous technical roadmaps to improve system cost, performance and reliability, the PV industry should also plan to handle large volumes of silicon panel waste, which is initially estimated to be ~13 million metric tons (MT) by 2050 in the U.S. alone. Understanding the magnitude of material needs and how material flows throughout the PV panel life cycle could respond to design, operational and different end-of-life (EOL) circular pathways will help transition into a circular, resource-conserving economy. Herein, we introduce a dynamic material flow analysis (DMFA) framework based on electricity generation to quantify time-series stocks and flows of bulk PV materials (e.g., solar glass and aluminum frames) throughout the life cycles of utility-scale silicon PV systems in the U.S. in the period 2000-2100. We apply the model to a range of scenarios to understand how material demands depend on selected PV-related parameters, different material circularity strategies, and recent module design trends (e.g., bifacial, frameless). We found that float glass and aluminum in PV installations would likely reach 100 million MT and 12 million MT by 2100, respectively, in the baseline scenario. The most influential parameters for PV installation and subsequent waste reduction are found to be module lifetime, module efficiency, annual degradation, and material reduction. Module recycling and component remanufacturing were found to be the most effective material circularity strategies for waste minimization. Panel reuse has negligible savings on waste under current module efficiencies compared to replacements with newer generations with higher efficiency. Ongoing trends to produce larger power frameless modules could save 10 million MT of glass and ~9 million MT of aluminum. Our results enable advanced planning for future materials needs and provide insight into potential opportunities to minimize waste.
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
A Circularity Assessment for Silicon Solar Panels Based on Dynamic Material Flow Analysis: Preprint
Solar photovoltaics (PV) are the fastest growing renewable energy technology for clean, inexpensive, and sustainable electricity generation. Along with numerous technical roadmaps to improve system cost, performance and reliability, the PV industry should also plan to handle large volumes of silicon panel waste, which is initially estimated to be ~13 million metric tons (MT) by 2050 in the U.S. alone. Understanding the magnitude of material needs and how material flows throughout the PV panel life cycle could respond to design, operational and different end-of-life (EOL) circular pathways will help transition into a circular, resource-conserving economy. Herein, we introduce a dynamic material flow analysis (DMFA) framework based on electricity generation to quantify time-series stocks and flows of bulk PV materials (e.g., solar glass and aluminum frames) throughout the life cycles of utility-scale silicon PV systems in the U.S. in the period 2000-2100. We apply the model to a range of scenarios to understand how material demands depend on selected PV-related parameters, different material circularity strategies, and recent module design trends (e.g., bifacial, frameless). We found that float glass and aluminum in PV installations would likely reach 100 million MT and 12 million MT by 2100, respectively, in the baseline scenario. The most influential parameters for PV installation and subsequent waste reduction are found to be module lifetime, module efficiency, annual degradation, and material reduction. Module recycling and component remanufacturing were found to be the most effective material circularity strategies for waste minimization. Panel reuse has negligible savings on waste under current module efficiencies compared to replacements with newer generations with higher efficiency. Ongoing trends to produce larger power frameless modules could save 10 million MT of glass and ~9 million MT of aluminum. Our results enable advanced planning for future materials needs and provide insight into potential opportunities to minimize waste.
circular economy↗
Accurate oscillator strengths for ultraviolet lines of Ar I - Implications for interstellar material
Analysis of absorption from interstellar Ar I in lightly reddened lines of sight provides information on the warm and hot components of the interstellar medium near the sun. The details of the analysis are limited by the quality of the atomic data. Accurate oscillator strengths for the Ar I lines at 1048 and 1067 A and the astrophysical implications are presented. From lifetimes measured with beam-foil spectroscopy, an f-value for 1048 A of 0.257 +/- 0.013 is obtained. Through the use of a semiempirical formalism for treating singlet-triplet mixing, an oscillator strength of 0.064 +/- 0.003 is derived for 1067 A. Because of the accuracy of the results, the conclusions of York and colleagues from spectra taken with the Copernicus satellite are strengthened. In particular, for interstellar gas in the solar neighborhood, argon has a solar abundance, and the warm, neutral material is not pervasive.
Federman, S. R.↗