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Results for “ION EXTRACTION”

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 127 records · Page 7
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1984

Simple performance model for ring and line cusp ion thrusters

A model is developed for high magnetic field strength cusped thrusters which results in a single equation describing the thruster performance. Such a simple result is made possible by formulating the model in terms of the average energy expended in producing ions in the discharge plasma and the fraction of these ions that are extracted into the beam. A key feature of the model is that it allows one to calculate the average plasma ion energy cost as a function of the propellant utilization knowing only thruster geometric design parameters and the propellant gas. The model is exercised to indicate the effects on performance resulting from changes in the extracted ion fraction, the quality of the containment of primary electrons, the propellant mass flow rate, the propellant gas and the transparency of the accelerator system to neutral atoms.

Brophy, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Deposition of diamond-like films by ECR microwave plasma

Hard amorphous hydrogenated carbon, diamond-like films are deposited using an electron cyclotron resonance microwave plasma with a separate radio frequency power bias applied to a substrate stage. The electron cyclotron resonance microwave plasma yields low deposition pressure and creates ion species otherwise unavailable. A magnetic mirror configuration extracts special ion species from a plasma chamber. Different levels of the radio frequency power bias accelerate the ion species of the ECR plasma impinging on a substrate to form different diamond-like films. During the deposition process, a sample stage is maintained at an ambient temperature of less than 100.degree. C. No external heating is applied to the sample stage. The deposition process enables diamond-like films to be deposited on heat-sensitive substrates.

Shing, Yuh-Han↗
DOE OSTI2025

Elucidating the Interfacial Barriers in Lanthanide Back-Extraction: From Water to Oil and Back Again

Recovery of critical rare earth elements from complex mixtures has long been realized via solvent extraction, where ions in an aqueous phase are separated into an organic phase using amphiphilic ligands. While a great deal of effort has been placed on understanding this forward reaction, substantial knowledge gaps in the back-extraction process remain. This includes the mechanism of interfacial dissociation and transport back into a highly acidic aqueous phase for further processing. In this work, we connect back-extraction kinetics made in realistic solvent extraction systems to salient interfacial chemistry and structure that represent bottlenecks in the back-extraction of lanthanide ions. We show that the interface between the two liquid phases varies dramatically based on the composition of both phases. Water stretching signals are shown to report on the population of lingering interfacial complexes and are thus used as a reporter of competitive adsorption from excess free ligands in solution for limited interfacial vacancies. We show that excess free ligands, often used to improve forward extractions, set up interfacial blockades inhibiting back-extraction both kinetically and thermodynamically. In conclusion, this insight opens up avenues to tune interfacial properties to facilitate a more dynamic, exchangeable interface to speed up back-extractions while using less energy intensive chemical swings.

Interfaces↗
NASA NTRS1981

Advanced space propulsion thruster research

Experiments showed that stray magnetic fields can adversely affect the capacity of a hollow cathode neutralizer to couple to an ion beam. Magnetic field strength at the neutralizer cathode orifice is a crucial factor influencing the coupling voltage. The effects of electrostatic accelerator grid aperture diameters on the ion current extraction capabilities were examined experimentally to describe the divergence, deflection, and current extraction capabilities of grids with the screen and accelerator apertures displaced relative to one another. Experiments performed in orificed, mercury hollow cathodes support the model of field enhanced thermionic electron mission from cathode inserts. Tests supported the validity of a thermal model of the cathode insert. A theoretical justification of a Saha equation model relating cathode plasma properties is presented. Experiments suggest that ion loss rates to discharge chamber walls can be controlled. A series of new discharge chamber magnetic field configurations were generated in the flexible magnetic field thruster and their effect on performance was examined. A technique used in the thruster to measure ion currents to discharge chamber walls is described. Using these ion currents the fraction of ions produced that are extracted from the discharge chamber and the energy cost of plasma ions are computed.

Wilbur, P. J.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Data for Selected Ion Monitoring for Orbitrap-Based Metabolomics

Orbitrap mass spectrometry in full scan mode enables the simultaneous detection of hundreds of metabolites and their isotope-labeled forms. Yet, sensitivity remains limiting for many metabolites, including low-concentration species, poor ionizers, and low-fractional-abundance isotope-labeled forms in isotope-tracing studies. Here, we explore selected ion monitoring (SIM) as a means of sensitivity enhancement. The analytes of interest are enriched in the orbitrap analyzer by using the quadrupole as a mass filter to select particular ions. In tissue extracts, SIM significantly enhances the detection of ions of low intensity, as indicated by improved signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios and measurement precision. In addition, SIM improves the accuracy of isotope-ratio measurements. SIM, however, must be deployed with care, as excessive accumulation in the orbitrap of similar m/z ions can lead, via space-charge effects, to decreased performance (signal loss, mass shift, and ion coalescence). Ion accumulation can be controlled by adjusting settings including injection time and target ion quantity. Overall, we suggest using a full scan to ensure broad metabolic coverage, in tandem with SIM, for the accurate quantitation of targeted low-intensity ions, and provide methods deploying this approach to enhance metabolome coverage.f

Mass Spectrometry↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Wastewater Brine Purification and Recovery through Electrodialysis Ion Exchange

Reutilizing resources onboard the International Space Station (ISS) and for future deep space missions are critical for mission longevity and sustainability. Wastewater brine produced from water recovery systems contain chemical species that could be processed into a potential fertilizer for future plant systems. This can be achieved through a process called electrodialysis ion exchange. Wastewater containing inorganic salt components are fed through a series of ion exchange membranes to produce fertilizer (a phosphate rich stream), electrolysis-grade water, and other useful commodities. Electrodialysis cells consisting of anion and cation exchange membranes, monovalent anion exchange membranes, and bipolar membranes were utilized to achieve selective ion exchange. The use of the electrodialysis cells were effective for both water extraction and ion separation. Ions successfully diffused across their respective membranes into the concentrate, acid, and base streams. This resulted in pure water, a phosphate rich stream, and a separate anion/hydrogen and cation/hydroxide stream. However, sulfate and some phosphate ions were able to diffuse through the monovalent anion exchange membrane into the acid stream. This resulted in predominantly phosphate ions remaining in the concentrate. Optimization of the process was accomplished by altering flowrates of each stream and initial volumes, adjusting the power input and resulting current through each cell, and varying the starting parameters by splitting the inorganic waste input into the diluate and the concentrate. As expected, increasing the flowrate and the power input to each cell reduced the overall time of the process. However, mission constraints may require a longer duration process in order to reduce the power consumption. Further analysis will be required to determine the power input necessary to achieve ion diffusion effectively and in a timely manner.

Ion Exchange Membranes↗
NASA NTRS1984

The DE-AC accelerator system for high beam current density

A radically different ion accelerator system design has been developed to increase the extracted beam current density of ion thrusters. By independently controlling plasma ion extraction and acceleration, the Decoupled Extraction and Amplified Current (DE-AC) accelerator system gives higher beam currents at lower electric field stress levels. Results are presented for DE-AC grid system operation with the Test Bed Ion Engine. Using argon propellant, feasibility of a 60 mA/sq cm beam current density is shown. A discussion of power supply requirements, specific impulse operation and grid system geometrical design is presented also.

Aston, G.↗
DOE OSTI2025

High resolution characterization of soil dissolved organic matter with FTICR-MS (Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry) from soil samples in control and warming plots in Blodgett Forest, CA (2014 and 2018)

The pathways of carbon transport and loss through and from soils—soil organic matter (SOM) depolymerization to dissolved organic carbon and mineralization to carbon dioxide (CO2)—are fundamentally driven by microbial activity, which is strongly regulated by environmental conditions. As part of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) Terrestrial Ecosystem Science (TES) Belowground Biogeochemistry Science Focus Area (SFA), we have established a novel whole-soil long-term warming experiment at the University of California (UC) Blodgett Forest Research Station (Sierra Nevada) in 2014, where we study the role of biogeochemical, microbial and geochemical process interactions in SOM decomposition and stabilization.This package contains Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (21 Tesla FTICR-MS) data measured in negative and positive ionization mode from water and methanol soil extracts. Soil samples were collected in 2014/06/03 and 2018/06/04 from 3 replicated paired plots that had been subjected to experimental warming since June 2014 to simulate a predicted climate change scenario for northern California. The following files are included: (1) fticr_neg_h2oMeoh_data_raw.csv: raw data from combined water (H2O) and methanol (MeOH) extracts in negative ion mode, (2) fticr_neg_h2oMeoh_data_processed.csv: processed data from combined water (H2O) and methanol (MeOH) extracts in negative ion mode, (3) fticr_neg_metadata.csv: metadata for samples/measurements in negative ion mode, (4) fticr_pos_h2oMeoh_data_raw.csv: raw data from combined water (H2O) and methanol (MeOH) extracts in positive ion mode, (5) fticr_pos_h2oMeoh_data_processed.csv: processed data from combined water (H2O) and methanol (MeOH) extracts in positive ion mode, (6) fticr_pos_metadata.csv: metadata for samples/measurements in positive ion mode.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS1989

Reversal electron attachment ionizer for detection of trace species

An in-line reversal electron, high-current ionizer capable of focusing a beam of electrons to a reversal region and executing a reversal of the electrons, such that the electrons possess zero kinetic energy at the point of reversal, may be used to produce both negative and positive ions. A sample gas is introduced at the point of electron reversal for low energy electron-(sample gas) molecule attachment with high efficiency. The attachment process produces negative ions from the sample gas, which includes species present in trace (minute) amounts. These ions are extracted efficiently and directed to a mass analyzer where they may be detected and identified. The generation and detection of positive ions is accomplished in a similar fashion with minimal adjustment to potentials applied to the apparatus.

Bernius, Mark T.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Reversal electron attachment ionizer for detection of trace species

An in-line reversal electron, high-current ionizer capable of focusing a beam of electrons to a reversal region and executing a reversal of said electrons, such that the electrons possess zero kinetic energy at the point of reversal, may be used to produce both negative and positive ions. A sample gas is introduced at the point of electron reversal for low energy electron-(sample gas) molecule attachment with high efficiency. The attachment process produces negative ions from the sample gas, which includes species present in trace (minute) amounts. These ions are extracted efficiently and directed to a mass analyzer where they may be detected and identified. The generation and detection of positive ions is accomplished in a similar fashion with minimal adjustment to potentials applied to the apparatus.

Bernius, Mark T.↗
NASA NTRS1969

Separation of traces of metal ions from sodium matrices

Method for isolating metal ion traces from sodium matrices consists of two extractions and an ion exchange step. Extraction is accomplished by using 2-thenoyltrifluoracetone and dithizone followed by cation exchange.

Korkisch, J.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Development of Crown Ether-Functionalized Polymeric Sorbents for Lithium-Ion Capture

The purpose of this Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) was to develop and demonstrate new synthetic strategies for fabricating lithium-selective polymeric adsorbents by covalently incorporating crown ether functionalities into durable, processable support materials. These advanced sorbents are designed to selectively extract lithium ions (Li⁺) from dilute aqueous sources such as brine, seawater, industrial wastewater, and battery recycling streams.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1999

Internal Plasma Properties and Enhanced Performance of an 8 cm Ion Thruster Discharge

There is a need for a lightweight, low power ion thruster for space science missions. Such an ion thruster is under development at NASA Glenn Research Center. In an effort to better understand the discharge performance of this thruster. a version of this thruster with an anode containing electrically isolated electrodes at the cusps was fabricated and tested. Discharge characteristics of this ring cusp ion thruster were measured without ion beam extraction. Discharge current was measured at collection electrodes located at the cusps and at the anode body itself. Discharge performance and plasma properties were measured as a function of discharge power, which was varied between 20 and 50 W. It was found that ion production costs decreased by as much as 20 percent when the two most downstream cusp electrodes were allowed to float. Floating the electrodes did not give rise to a significant increase in discharge power even though the plasma density increased markedly. The improved performance is attributed to enhanced electron containment.

Foster, John E.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Enhanced Discharge Performance in a Ring Cusp Plasma Source

There is a need for a lightweight, low power ion thruster for space science missions. Such an ion thruster is under development at NASA Glenn Research Center. In an effort to better understand the discharge performance of this thruster, a thruster discharge chamber with an anode containing electrically isolated electrodes at the cusps was fabricated and tested. Characteristics of this ring cusp ion discharge were measured without ion beam extraction. Discharge current was measured at collection electrodes located at the magnetic cusps and at the anode body itself. Discharge performance and plasma properties were measured as a function of power, which was varied between 20 and 50 W. It was found that ion production costs decreased by as much as 20 percent when the two most downstream cusp electrodes were allowed to float. Floating the electrodes did not give rise to a significant increase in discharge power even though the plasma density increased markedly. The improved performance is attributed to enhanced electron containment.

Foster, John E.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Rapid determination of ions by combined solid-phase extraction--diffuse reflectance spectroscopy

We introduce colorimetric solid-phase extraction (C-SPE) for the rapid determination of selected ions. This new technique links the exhaustive concentration of an analyte by SPE onto a membrane disk surface for quantitative measurement with a hand-held diffuse reflectance spectrometer. The concentration/measurement procedure is complete in approximately 1 min and can be performed almost anywhere. This method has been used to monitor iodine and iodide in spacecraft water in the 0.1-5.0 ppm range and silver(I) in the range of 5.0-1000 microg/l. Applications to the trace analysis of copper(II), nickel(II), iron(III) and chromium(VI) are described. Studies on the mechanism of extraction showed that impregnation of the disk with a surfactant as well as a complexing reagent results in uptake of additional water, which markedly improves the extraction efficiency.

NASA Program Advanced Human Support Technology↗
DOE OSTI2025

Design strategies for ion-sieving charge mosaic membranes toward sustainable lithium extraction

Membrane-based technologies are essential for realizing sustainable ion-sieving processes such as lithium extraction. Much effort was devoted to designing new membrane materials, whereas the effect of charge distribution has been largely overlooked. Here, we filled this knowledge gap by providing a quantitative transport model for selective ion diffusion through a charge mosaic membrane (CMM). Composed of alternating regions of Li-selective ceramic and anion-selective polymeric materials, CMMs offered the unique advantage of promoting the transport of both Li + and anions while blocking other cations. As a result, the membrane achieved a high Li/Mg selectivity of 62 and a high permeation rate of 59 mmol·m −2 ·h −1 at a low feeding concentration of 30 mM, without any external driving force. Systematical experiments revealed the influence of brine Mg/Li ratio and membrane ceramic/polymer ratio on the overall extraction rate, which was consistent with the prediction of our transport model. In conclusion, the model developed in this work not only presented the design strategies of CMMs for Li extraction but also provided guidance for the development of other ion-sieving processes in general.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗