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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 1,261 records · Page 70

Propulsion-induced aerodynamics of an ejector-configured STOVL fighter aircraft

Propulsion-induced aerodynamic effects are computed by using data obtained from tests of a full-scale model of the E-7A configuration that were run in the NASA Ames 40 x 80 and 80 x 120-foot tunnels. These effects are shown both in aerodynamic coefficients and nondimensionalized by thrust versus equivalent velocity. The test results show that the full-scale ventral nozzle-induced effects are smaller than scale model data, while the ejector-induced effects demonstrate fair agreement. The effect of tunnel test section size is primarily observed at low and static speed, high thrust conditions, as seen in comparisons of data from both tunnels. The 80 x 120-foot tunnel test gave better static thrust calibrations and permitted a greater range of test freestream velocities and angles-of-attack, extending the database provided by the full-scale model.

Poppen, William A.↗

Simulations of Cryogenic Line Chilldown with Advanced Sub-Grid Wall Boiling Models

A meso-scale model developed at MIT [2][11] for boiling processes in water was adapted for cryogens and demonstrated for chilldown of propellant transfer lines in both liquid nitrogen and hydrogen. The sub-grid boiling model accurately captures the contributions to heat transfer from the generation of bubble nuclei, growth, and interaction of the bubbles in the microlayer as well as quenching of the boiling surface following bubble departure. It was adapted for cryogenic fluids using thermodynamic scaling concepts taking into account non-dimensional pressures and temperatures that are scaled by the corresponding critical values for the fluid. The boiling model was demonstrated for line chilldown in liquid nitrogen (Darr et al. [6]). The predicted wall temperature at which quenching occurs was close to the test data while the slope of the temperature curve after quenching is initiated, showing a steeper variation than the test data. Simulations were also performed for liquid hydrogen by simulating experiments of Hartwig et al. [7]. Chilldown times in liquid hydrogen are much more rapid due to higher heat transfer in the film boiling regime and accounting for the higher turbulence levels were found to be important. Furthermore, at the much lower fluid temperatures in liquid hydrogen flows, accounting for the variable thermal properties of the solid material is critical and has a dramatic impact on the quench times. The need for additional studies to better understand the evolution of the quench front in liquid hydrogen was noted.

Computational Fluid Dynamics↗

Simulations of Cryogenic Line Chilldown with Advanced Sub-Grid Wall Boiling Models

A meso-scale model developed at MIT [2][11] for boiling processes in water was adapted for cryogens and demonstrated for chilldown of propellant transfer lines in both liquid nitrogen and hydrogen. The sub-grid boiling model accurately captures the contributions to heat transfer from the generation of bubble nuclei, growth, and interaction of the bubbles in the microlayer as well as quenching of the boiling surface following bubble departure. It was adapted for cryogenic fluids using thermodynamic scaling concepts taking into account non-dimensional pressures and temperatures that are scaled by the corresponding critical values for the fluid. The boiling model was demonstrated for line chilldown in liquid nitrogen (Darr et al. [6]). The predicted wall temperature at which quenching occurs was close to the test data while the slope of the temperature curve after quenching is initiated, showing a steeper variation than the test data. Simulations were also performed for liquid hydrogen by simulating experiments of Hartwig et al. [7]. Chilldown times in liquid hydrogen are much more rapid due to higher heat transfer in the film boiling regime and accounting for the higher turbulence levels were found to be important. Furthermore, at the much lower fluid temperatures in liquid hydrogen flows, accounting for the variable thermal properties of the solid material is critical and has a dramatic impact on the quench times. The need for additional studies to better understand the evolution of the quench front in liquid hydrogen was noted.

Computational Fluid Dynamics↗

A Genome-Scale Metabolic Model of Anabaena 33047 to Guide Genetic Modifications to Overproduce Nylon Monomers

Nitrogen fixing-cyanobacteria can significantly improve the economic feasibility of cyanobacterial production processes by eliminating the requirement for reduced nitrogen. Anabaena sp. ATCC 33047 is a marine, heterocyst forming, nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria with a very short doubling time of 3.8 h. We developed a comprehensive genome-scale metabolic (GSM) model, iAnC892, for this organism using annotations and content obtained from multiple databases. iAnC892 describes both the vegetative and heterocyst cell types found in the filaments of Anabaena sp. ATCC 33047. iAnC892 includes 953 unique reactions and accounts for the annotation of 892 genes. Comparison of iAnC892 reaction content with the GSM of Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 revealed that there are 109 reactions including uptake hydrogenase, pyruvate decarboxylase, and pyruvate-formate lyase unique to iAnC892. iAnC892 enabled the analysis of energy production pathways in the heterocyst by allowing the cell specific deactivation of light dependent electron transport chain and glucose-6-phosphate metabolizing pathways. The analysis revealed the importance of light dependent electron transport in generating ATP and NADPH at the required ratio for optimal N2 fixation. When used alongside the strain design algorithm, OptForce, iAnC892 recapitulated several of the experimentally successful genetic intervention strategies that over produced valerolactam and caprolactam precursors.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Water tunnel flow visualization and wind tunnel data analysis of the F/A-18

Six degree of freedom studies were utilized to extract a band of yawing and rolling moment coefficients from the F/A-18 aircraft flight records. These were compared with 0.06 scale model data obtained in a 16T wind tunnel facility. The results, indicate the flight test yawing moment data exhibit an improvement over the wind tunnel data to near neutral stability and a significant reduction in lateral stability (again to anear neutral level). These data are consistent with the flight test results since the motion was characterized by a relatively slo departure. Flight tests repeated the slow yaw departure at M 0.3. Only 0.16 scale model wind tunnel data showed levels of lateral stability similar to the flight test results. Accordingly, geometric modifications were investigated on the 0.16 scale model in the 30x60 foot wind tunnel to improve high angle of attack lateral stability.

Erickson, G. E.↗

Relative importance of social factors, conspecific density, and forest structure on space use by the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker: A new consideration for habitat restoration

Understanding how the interplay between social behaviors and habitat structure influences space use is important for conservation of birds in restored habitat. We integrated fine-grained LiDAR-derived habitat data, spatial distribution of cavity trees, and spatially explicit behavioral observations in a multi-scale model to determine the relative importance of conspecific density, intraspecific interactions, and the distribution of cavities on space use by Red-cockaded Woodpeckers (Picoides borealis) on 2 sites in South Carolina, USA. We evaluated candidate models using information theoretic methods. Top scale-specific models included effects of conspecific density and number of cavity tree starts within 200 m of Red-cockaded Woodpecker foraging locations, and effects of the number of intraspecific interactions within 400 m of Red-cockaded Woodpecker foraging locations. The top multi-scale model for 22 of 34 Red-cockaded Woodpecker groups included covariates for the number of groups within 200 m of foraging locations and LiDARderived habitat with moderate densities of large pines (Pinus spp.) and minimal hardwood overstory. These results indicate distribution of neighboring groups was the most important predictor of space use once a minimal set of structural habitat thresholds was reached, and that placing recruitment clusters as little as 400 m from foraging partitions of neighboring groups may promote establishment of new breeding groups in unoccupied habitat. The presence of neighboring groups likely provides cues to foraging Red-cockaded Woodpeckers that facilitate prospecting prior to juvenile dispersal and, to a lesser extent, indicates high-quality forage resources. Careful consideration of local distribution of neighboring groups in potential habitat may improve managers’ ability to increase Red-cockaded Woodpecker density on restored landscapes and mitigate isolation of Red-cockaded Woodpecker groups, a problem that negatively affects fitness across the species’ range.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗

Multiscale Modeling of the Uptake of Hydrogen Chloride on Anodized Aluminum in Relevance to Spacecraft Fire Safety

Fire safety is a critical component of space missions. An electrical fire within the spacecraft often produces gaseous hydrogen chloride (HCl) from the smoldering of wire insulation. These gases tend to stick to the interior materials of the spacecraft, which is often comprised of treated aluminum. Determining the rate of uptake for HCl by aluminum helps the safe design of the spacecraft to reduce catastrophic mission risk. Our previous studies showed that a one-step global reaction model for adsorption of HCl on aluminum is incapable of predicting the experimentally measured HCl uptake of anodized aluminum, compared to other treatments with thinner oxide layers. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that aluminum chloride is found deep in the oxide layer of the anodized aluminum, implying that the transport of HCl within the oxide layer covering the aluminum surface must be considered. This work uses a multiscale modeling approach to predict the uptake of HCl. A pore model is developed wherein the HCl reacts with the aluminum oxide pore walls to create an aluminum chloride layer. The HCl then diffuses through that layer for further reaction, until the diffusion resistance grows too large, and the surface is said to be saturated. The pore model is then coupled with the reactor-scale model to predict overall HCl uptake. Results show that this new multiscale approach predicts the uptake of HCl far more accurately than previously used single-scale models.

Modeling↗

Evaluation of a Scaling Approach for Stiffened Composite Flat Panels Loaded in Compression

Results of an experimental study of the effects of geometric scaling on a graphite-epoxy flat stiffened-skin panel concept loaded in compression are presented. The scaled models were fabricated using an approach to laminate thickness scaling, referred to as the "ply-thickness method." The structural response and failure characteristics of full-, half-, and quarter-scale specimens fabricated with this scaling concept are discussed and compared. The scaled up failure loads of the half- and quarter-scale models agree well with the failure load of the full-scale prototypes tested. The strength scale effects observed in the results were substantially smaller than those in earlier studies that employed other laminate scaling techniques. The experimental results indicate that failure initiated by crippling and delamination in the cap of the longitudinal stiffeners and skin-stiffener separation at the bond-lines, and was followed by failure of the specimen skin. Nonlinear finite element analysis results correlate well with experimental results up to failure.

Rouse, Marshall↗

A genome-scale metabolic model for the denitrifying bacterium Thauera sp. MZ1T accurately predicts degradation of pollutants and production of polymers

The denitrifying bacterium Thauera sp . MZ1T, a common member of microbial communities in wastewater treatment facilities, can produce different compounds from a range of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) sources under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In these different conditions, Thauera modifies its metabolism to produce different compounds that influence the microbial community. In particular, Thauera sp . MZ1T produces different exopolysaccharides with floc-forming properties, impacting the physical disposition of wastewater consortia and the efficiency of nutrient assimilation by the microbial community. Under N-limiting conditions, Thauera sp . MZ1T decreases its growth rate and accelerates the accumulation of polyhydroxyalkanoate-related (PHA) compounds including polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), which plays a fundamental role as C and energy storage in this β-proteobacterium. However, the metabolic mechanisms employed by Thauera sp . MZ1T to assimilate and catabolize many of the different C and N sources under aerobic and anaerobic conditions remain unknown. Systems biology approaches such as genome-scale metabolic modeling have been successfully used to unveil complex metabolic mechanisms for various microorganisms. Here, we developed a comprehensive metabolic model (M-model) for Thauera sp . MZ1T ( i Thauera861), consisting of 1,744 metabolites, 2,384 reactions, and 861 genes. We validated the model experimentally using over 70 different C and N sources under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. i Thauera861 achieved a prediction accuracy of 95% for growth on various C and N sources and close to 85% for assimilation of aromatic compounds under denitrifying conditions. The M-model was subsequently deployed to determine the effects of substrates, oxygen presence, and the C:N ratio on the production of PHB and exopolysaccharides (EPS), showing the highest polymer yields are achieved with nucleotides and amino acids under aerobic conditions. This comprehensive M-model will help reveal the metabolic processes by which this ubiquitous species influences communities in wastewater treatment systems and natural environments.

Tec-Campos, Diego (ORCID:0000000188194150)↗

High‐quality genome‐scale metabolic modelling of Pseudomonas putida highlights its broad metabolic capabilities

Summary Genome‐scale reconstructions of metabolism are computational species‐specific knowledge bases able to compute systemic metabolic properties. We present a comprehensive and validated reconstruction of the biotechnologically relevant bacterium Pseudomonas putida KT2440 that greatly expands computable predictions of its metabolic states. The reconstruction represents a significant reactome expansion over available reconstructed bacterial metabolic networks. Specifically, i JN1462 (i) incorporates several hundred additional genes and associated reactions resulting in new predictive capabilities, including new nutrients supporting growth; (ii) was validated by in vivo growth screens that included previously untested carbon (48) and nitrogen (41) sources; (iii) yielded gene essentiality predictions showing large accuracy when compared with a knock‐out library and Bar‐seq data; and (iv) allowed mapping of its network to 82 P . putida sequenced strains revealing functional core that reflect the large metabolic versatility of this species, including aromatic compounds derived from lignin. Thus, this study provides a thoroughly updated metabolic reconstruction and new computable phenotypes for P . putida , which can be leveraged as a first step toward understanding the pan metabolic capabilities of Pseudomonas .

Microbiology↗

Space Shuttle solid rocket booster initial water impact loads and dynamics - Analysis, tests, and flight experience

A series of scale model tests, finite element dynamic response analyses and full scale segment tests have been performed for purposes of developing design criteria for the initial water impact loading conditions applied to the internal stiffener rings located in the aft skirt portion of the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster (SRB). In addition, flight experience has yielded information relative to structural reinforcement requirements. This paper discusses the test and analysis methods and summarizes significant results. It is noted that, although scale model test data are valuable for identifying trends, they have shortcomings concerning definition of full scale design loads criteria. Also, the frequently used static equivalent loads definition approach is not applicable for this type impact loading condition applied to an aft skirt type structure. Various types of ring structural fixes, including the addition of selected types of foam, are presented as well as associated full scale segment test results. Depending on the type and contour shape of the foam, reductions on applied pressures and peak measured strains over 50 percent are noted.

Kross, D. A.↗

Examples of data assimilation in mesoscale models

The keynote address was the problem of physical initialization of mesoscale models. The classic purpose of physical or diabatic initialization is to reduce or eliminate the spin-up error caused by the lack, at the initial time, of the fully developed vertical circulations required to support regions of large rainfall rates. However, even if a model has no spin-up problem, imposition of observed moisture and heating rate information during assimilation can improve quantitative precipitation forecasts, especially early in the forecast. The two key issues in physical initialization are the choice of assimilating technique and sources of hydrologic/hydrometeor data. Another example of data assimilation in mesoscale models was presented in a series of meso-beta scale model experiments with and 11 km version of the MASS model designed to investigate the sensitivity of convective initiation forced by thermally direct circulations resulting from differential surface heating to four dimensional assimilation of surface and radar data. The results of these simulations underscore the need to accurately initialize and simulate grid and sub-grid scale clouds in meso- beta scale models. The status of the application of the CSU-RAMS mesoscale model by the NOAA Forecast Systems Lab for producing real-time forecasts with 10-60 km mesh resolutions over (4000 km)(exp 2) domains for use by the aviation community was reported. Either MAPS or LAPS model data are used to initialize the RAMS model on a 12-h cycle. The use of MAPS (Mesoscale Analysis and Prediction System) model was discussed. Also discussed was the mesobeta-scale data assimilation using a triply-nested nonhydrostatic version of the MM5 model.

Carr, Fred↗

Deep Learning for Subgrid‐Scale Turbulence Modeling in Large‐Eddy Simulations of the Convective Atmospheric Boundary Layer

Abstract In large‐eddy simulations, subgrid‐scale (SGS) processes are parameterized as a function of filtered grid‐scale variables. First‐order, algebraic SGS models are based on the eddy‐viscosity assumption, which does not always hold for turbulence. Here we apply supervised deep neural networks (DNNs) to learn SGS stresses from a set of neighboring coarse‐grained velocity from direct numerical simulations of the convective boundary layer at friction Reynolds numbers Re τ up to 1243 without invoking the eddy‐viscosity assumption. The DNN model was found to produce higher correlation between SGS stresses compared to the Smagorinsky model and the Smagorinsky‐Bardina mixed model in the surface and mixed layers and can be applied to different grid resolutions and various stability conditions ranging from near neutral to very unstable. The DNN model can capture key statistics of turbulence in a posteriori (online) tests when applied to large‐eddy simulations of the atmospheric boundary layer.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

Analysis of the electron component of EAS at observational level 700 g x cm(-2) with a scale breaking interaction model and gammaisation hypothesis

Scale breaking model and gammaisation processes for high energies give a correct description of the longitudinal development of extensive air showers (E.A.S.). From the analysis of phenomenological characteristics of E.A.S. at Tien-Shan experiment, it follows that for energies near 10 to the 6 GeV the secondary particle multiplicity increases with energy faster than is predicted by the accepted scale breaking model.

Procureur, J.↗

Wave tank and bench-top control testing of a wave energy converter

An increasing number of experiments are being conducted to study the design and performance of wave energy converters. Often in these tests, a real-time realization of prospective control algorithms is applied in order to assess and optimize energy absorption as well as other factors. This paper details the design and execution of an experiment for evaluating the capability of a model-scale WEC to execute basic control algorithms. Model-scale hardware, system, and experimental design are considered, with a focus on providing an experimental setup capable of meeting the dynamic requirements of a control system. To more efficiently execute such tests, a dry bench testing method is proposed and utilized to allow for controller tuning and to give an initial assessment of controller performance; this is followed by wave tank testing. The trends from the dry bench test and wave tank test results show good agreement with theory and confirm the ability of a relatively simple feedback controller to substantially improve energy absorption. Additionally, the dry bench testing approach is shown to be an effective and efficient means of designing and testing both controllers and actuator systems for wave energy converters.

16 TIDAL AND WAVE POWER↗

Dynamic responses of submerged components in advanced reactors: experimental and numerical studies

The seismic design of an advanced nuclear reactor must consider the interaction of vessel internal components with the surrounding coolant: fluid–structure interaction (FSI). Available analytical solutions for FSI of submerged components do not accommodate multiple-component, intense seismic inputs and complex reactor and internal geometries. Physical testing of reactor vessels and internals to inform seismic design is impractical and cost-prohibitive, leaving the use of verified and validated, robust numerical models as the only plausible option for analysis and design. Physical data that could be used for validating such numerical models for multi-component shaking are not available. This article describes an experimental program performed on a 6-degree-of-freedom earthquake simulator to generate data that could support validation of seismic FSI numerical models for submerged components in commercial finite element codes. A scaled model of a base-supported reactor vessel with simplified representations of submerged internals was tested to generate submerged-component response histories for a range of seismic inputs. The generated data were used to validate numerical models in the finite element code LS-DYNA. Numerical models were validated for calculation of hydrodynamic pressure responses on internals, in-water frequencies of internals, and acceleration responses of internals. The generated data and the analysis recommendations could aid engineering analysts designing submerged components and systems for seismic effects.

Engineering↗

Pressure and heat flux results from the space shuttle/external fuel tank interaction test at Mach numbers 16 and 19

Heat transfer rates and pressures were measured on a 0.0175-scale model of the space shuttle external tank (ET), model MCR0200. Tests were conducted with the ET model separately and while mated with a 0.0175-scale model of the orbiter, model 21-OT (Grumman). The tests were conducted in the AEDC-VKF Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel (F) at Mach numbers 16 and 19. The primary data consisted of the interaction heating rates experienced by the ET while mated with the orbiter in the flight configuration. Data were taken for a range of Reynolds numbers from 50,000 to 65,000 under laminar flow conditions.

Brewer, E. B.↗