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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 91 records · Page 5

Rapidly Solidified Alloys Made by Chill Block Melt-spinning Processes

Chill block melt-spinning (CBMS) processes are used to make rapidly solidified microcrystalline and amorphous alloy ribbon, flakes, etc. Fundamentals of CBMS processes are discussed in light of recent advances. Special regard is given to ribbon geometric defects (edge serrations, surface asperities, etc.). Photomicrographs of CBMS ribbon solidification microstructures are used to compare local solidification rates, especially in the vicinity of ribbon defects.

Liebermann, H. H.↗

Fracture surface characteristics of notched angleplied graphite/epoxy composites

Composite fracture surface characteristics and related fracture modes have been investigated through extensive microscopic inspections of the fracture surfaces of notched angleplied graphite/epoxy laminates. The investigation involved 4 ply laminates of the configuration + or - theta (s) where theta = 0 deg, 3 deg, 5 deg, 10 deg, 15 deg, 30 deg, 45 deg, 60 deg, 75 deg, and 90 deg. Two-inch wide tensile specimens with 0.25 in. by 0.05 in. through-slits centered across the width were tested to fracture. The fractured surfaces were then removed and examined using a scanning electron microscope. Evaluation of the photomicrographs combined with analytical results obtained using the CODSTRAN computer code culminated in a unified set of fracture criteria for determining the mode of fracture in notched angleplied graphite/epoxy laminates.

Ginty, C. A.↗

Nature of gamma-prime precipitates in rheocast IN-100 alloy

The microstructures of commercial VIM-cast and rheocast (Apelian and Cheng, 1983) IN-100 superalloy are investigated optically and by two-stage replica TEM, with an emphasis on the nature of the gamma-prime (GP) precipitates. Photomicrographs at magnifications of 39, 390, 2145, and 6630 are presented and discussed. VIM-cast IN-100 has dendritic structure, 10-20-micron primary GP particles, and uniformly distributed cuboid GP precipitates of a uniform size (about 0.5 micron). Rheocast IN-100 (stirred 20 min at 350 rpm, 1291 C, and 0.0006 torr) has a nondendritic structure, 20-100-micron primary GP particles, and a smaller volume fraction of cuboid GP precipitates with a bimodal (either 1-1.5 microns or less than 0.5 micron) size distribution. Such distribution should increase fatigue-crack-nucleation resistance.

Surappa, M. K.↗

Analyzing Microchips With Dark-Field Negative Photomicrography

Inverse development process yields fine details. Photomicrographic technique produces images of integrated-circuit chips. Technique based on dark-field illumination: (chip lit with bright central spot of light and photographed by light scattered or diffracted from spot. Reveals more about microstructure patterns related to photoresist masking than more conventional bright-field method.

Suszko, S. F.↗

Procedures for precap visual inspection

Screening procedures for the final precap visual inspection of microcircuits used in electronic system components are described as an aid in training personnel unfamiliar with microcircuits. Processing techniques used in industry for the manufacture of monolithic and hybrid components are presented and imperfections that may be encountered during this inspection are discussed. Problem areas such as scratches, voids, adhesions, and wire bonding are illustrated by photomicrographs. This guide can serve as an effective tool in training personnel to perform precap visual inspections efficiently and reliably.

Source record↗

Metallic and metalloceramic coating by thermal decomposition

Metallic and metalloceramic coatings were prepared by thermal decomposition of a number of inorganic and metallo-organic compounds. The compounds were applied by spraying and by immersion, especially on ceramic fibers and fiber forms, which are easily coated by this procedure. Penetration of low-density ceramics is examined, and procedures are described that were used for converting the deposited materials to metals, oxides, or metal oxide films. Multiple-component films were also prepared. Photomicrographs illustrate the structure of these films.

Hendricks, R. C.↗

The effects of thermal cycling on matrix cracking and stiffness changes in composite tubes

The study investigated the accumulation of transverse matrix cracks and the resultant loss of torsional, extensional, and bending stiffnesses in 8 layer 0.5 in. diameter crossply tubes subjected to thermal cycling. The tubes were graphite-epoxy and the temperature range during cycling was -250 to 200 F. The effect of fiber and matrix properties was investigated through the use of T300 and P75S fibers and 934 and CE339 resins. The study considered 0, 10, 50, 100, 300, and 500 thermal cycles. Photomicrographs, X-rays, and edge replication were used to evaluate cracking. Special loading fixtures were used to measure stiffness changes. An important finding was that for the tubes studied, even with extensive cracking, the bending and extensional stiffnesses were not affected. The torsional stiffness, however, was strongly affected.

Cohen, D.↗

Rocket thrust chamber thermal barrier coatings

A research program was conducted to generate data and develop analytical techniques to predict the performance and reliability of ceramic thermal barrier coatings in high heat flux environments. A finite element model was used to analyze the thermomechanical behavior of coating systems in rocket thrust chambers. Candidate coating systems (using a copper substrate, NiCrAlY bond coat and ZrO2.8Y2O3 ceramic overcoat) were selected for detailed study based on photomicrographic evaluations of experimental test specimens. The effects of plasma spray application parameters on the material properties of these coatings were measured and the effects on coating performance evaluated using the finite element model. Coating design curves which define acceptable operating envelopes for seleted coating systems were constructed based on temperature and strain limitations. Spray gun power levels was found to have the most significant effect on coating structure. Three coating systems were selected for study using different power levels. Thermal conductivity, strain tolerance, density, and residual stress were measured for these coatings. Analyses indicated that extremely thin coatings ( 0.02 mm) are required to accommodate the high heat flux of a rocket thrust chamber and ensure structural integrity.

Batakis, A. P.↗

Fracture characteristics of angleplied laminates fabricated from overaged graphite/epoxy prepreg

A series of angleplied graphite/epoxy laminates was fabricated from overaged prepreg and tested in tension to investigate the effects of overaged or advanced cure material on the degradation of laminate strength. Results, which include fracture stresses, indicate a severe degradation in strength. In addition, the fracture surfaces and microstructural characteristics are distinctly unlike any features observed in previous tests of this prepreg and laminate configuration. Photographs of the surfaces and microstructures reveal flat morphologies consisting of alternate rows of fibers and hackles. These fracture surface characteristics are independent of the laminate configurations. The photomicrographs are presented and compared with data from similar studies to show the unique characteristics produced by the overage prepreg. Analytical studies produced results which agreed with those from the experimental investigations.

Ginty, C. A.↗

Evaluation of multilayer printed wiring boards by metallographic techniques: An illustrated guide to the preparation and inspection of plated-through hole test coupons based on the requirements of Mil-P-55110D

This work is an illustrated handbook containing the rationale and procedure for the evaluation of multilayer printed wiring board construction integrity with respect to plated-through holes in accordance with the requirements of MIL-P-55110D, Printed Wiring Boards. It is intended as a practical aid for those concerned with determining the construction integrity of multilayer boards for high reliability applications. Photomicrographs of cross sectioned holes illustrate defect types, acceptable and unacceptable conditions, and methods of measurement. A procedure for specimen preparation is given, and appropriate paragraphs of the military specification are included and explained.

Jellison, J.↗

Results of apparent atomic oxygen reactions with spacecraft materials during shuttle flight STS-41G

The effect of atomic oxygen interaction experienced by polymeric-based spacecraft materials is described. An experimental package (ACOMEX) flown on shuttle mission STS-41G carried out the investigation of advanced composite specimens such as carbon-epoxy and Kevlar-epoxy both with and without protective coatings added to thermal protective paints and films. Information on the exposure environment of the specimens was provided by a carbon coated atomic oxygen fluence monitor together with a photographic record. Mass loss measurements and photomicrographs made possible the analysis of the effect of interaction. After a total of about 38 hours of equivalent normal exposure at 225 km altitude the results showed that unprotected exposed surfaces exhibited severe erosion and mass loss with the possibility of seriously degrading structural and thermal performance. However, the specimens with a thin fluorocarbon overcoat showed promise of providing a protective barrier to the attack without altering the base properties of the material.

Zimcik, D. G.↗

Properties of the Guin ungrouped iron meteorite - The origin of Guin and of group-IIE irons

The composition and structure of the Guin ungrouped iron meteorite inclusions have been investigated experimentally. The structural characteristics of polished and etched slabs of the meteorite were studied microscopically in reflected light. Modal abundances of troilite nodules and silicate inclusions were determined by weighing paper traces. The bulk composition of the silicate inclusions was calculated by combining modal phase abundances and mineral compositions. It is found that the largest silicate inclusion (2 x 4 cm) consists mostly of a shock-melted plagioclase-rich matrix surrounding large, partly melted augite grains. The oxygen isotopic composition of the inclusion is near that of LL chondrites. The inclusion is found to be similar in composition to selected melt pocket glasses in ordinary chondrites produced in situ by preferential melting of plagioclase rock due to shock compression. It is suggested that the Guin assemblage was formed by impact melting on a chondritic parent body. Silicate inclusions in IIE irons share many of the compositional and petrological characteristics of the Guin inclusions, indicating that IIE irons also formed by impact-melting of chondritic materials. Black and white photomicrographs of the silicate inclusions are provided.

Rubin, A. E.↗

Producing Low-Oxygen Samarium/Cobalt Magnet Alloy

Experiments aimed at producing SmCo5 alloy with low oxygen contamination described in report. Two methods of alloying by melting without contact with crucible walls tested. Lowest oxygen contamination, 70 parts per million achieved by dc arc melting on water-cooled, tantalum-clad copper hearth in purified quiescent argon atmosphere. Report includes photographs of equipment, photomicrographs of alloy samples, detailed descriptions of procedures tried, and tables of oxygen contamination and intrinsic coercivities of samples produced.

Das, Dilip K.↗

Arcjet component conditions through a multistart test

A low power, dc arcjet thruster was tested for starting reliability using hydrogen-nitrogen mixtures simulating the decomposition products of hydrazine. More than 300 starts were accumulated in phases with extended burn-in periods interlaced. A high degree of flow stabilization was built into the arcjet and the power supply incorporated both rapid current regulation and a high voltage, pulsed starting circuit. A nominal current level of 10 A was maintained throughout the test. Photomicrographs of the cathode tip showed a rapid recession to a steady-state operating geometry. A target of 300 starts was selected, as this represents significantly more than anticipated (150 to 240), in missions of 10 yr or less duration. Weighings showed no apparent mass loss. Some anode erosion was observed, particularly at the entrance to the constrictor. This was attributed to the brief period during startup the arc mode attachment point spends in the high pressure region upstream of the nozzle. Based on the results obtained, startup does not appear to be performance or life limiting for the number of starts typical of operational satellite applications.

Curran, Frank M.↗

Effect of an oxygen plasma on uncoated thin aluminum reflecting films

Thin aluminum films were considered for use as a reflective surface for solar collectors on orbiting solar dynamic power systems. A matter of concern is the durability of such reflective coatings against oxidative attack by highly reactive neutral atomic oxygen, which is the predominate chemical specie in low Earth orbit. Research to date was aimed at evaluating the protective merit of thin dielectric coatings over the aluminum or other reflective metals. However, an uncoated aluminum reflector may self-protect by virtue of the oxide formed from its exposed surface, which constitutes a physical barrier to further oxidation. This possibility was investigated, and an attempt was made to characterize the effects of atomic oxygen on thin Al films using photomicrographs, scanning electron microscopy, spectrophotometry, Auger analysis, and mass measurements. Data collected in a parallel effort is discussed for its comparative value. The results of the investigation of uncoated aluminum supported the self-protection hypothesis, and importantly, it was found that long term specular reflectance for uncoated aluminum exceeded that of Al and Ag reflectors with dielectric coatings.

Parsons, Roger L.↗

Observations of directional gamma prime coarsening during engine operation

Two alloys with negative mismatch parameters, NASAIR 100 and a modified NASAIR 100 called Alloy 3 were run as turbine blades in an experimental ground based Garret TFE731 engine for up to 200 hr. The directional coarsening of gamma prime (rafting) that developed during engine testing was analyzed and compared to previous research from laboratory tests. The blades were found to be rafted normal to the centrifugal stress axis over much of the span, but near the surfaces, the blades were found to be rafted parallel to the centrifugal stress axis for certain cycles. Representative photomicrographs of the blades and the effects of stress and temperature on raft formation are shown.

Draper, Susan L.↗

Clay-mineraloid weathering products in Antarctic meteorites

The production of clay mineraloids (CMs) in the weathering of stony meteorites recovered in the Allan Hills and Elephant Moraine areas of Antarctica is investigated, applying electron microbeam analysis, pyrolysis/mass spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and differential scanning calorimetry to whole-rock chips from two eucrites, two diogenites, and an H5 chondrite. The data are presented in tables, graphs, and photomicrographs and characterized in detail. Massive to incipient-vermicular CM formations with smectitelike or micalike compositions and indications of poor crystallization are observed and attributed to hydrocryogenic diagenesis (with little or no liquid water) on time scales of 10-1000 kyr. The need to take the compositional effects of weathering into account before attempting to reconstruct the preterrestrial histories of meteorites is stressed.

Gooding, James L.↗

Arcjet component conditions through a multistart test

A low power, dc arcjet thruster was tested for starting reliability using hydrogen-nitrogen mixtures simulating the decomposition products of hydrazine. More than 300 starts were accumulated in phases with extended burn-in periods interlaced. A high degree of flow stabilization was built into the arcjet and the power supply incorporated both rapid current regulation and a high voltage, pulsed starting circuit. A nominal current level of 10 A was maintained throughout the test. Photomicrographs of the cathode tip showed a rapid recession to a steady-state operating geometry. A target of 300 starts was selected, as this represents significantly more than anticipated (150 to 240), in missions of 10 yr or less duration. Weighings showed no apparent mass loss. Some anode erosion was observed, particularly at the entrance to the constrictor. This was attributed to the brief period during startup the arc mode attachment point spends in the high pressure region upstream of the nozzle. Based on the results obtained, startup does not appear to be performance or life limiting for the number of starts typical of operational satellite applications.

Curran, Frank M.↗