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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 1,495 records · Page 83
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2014

Trip Prediction Using GIS for Vehicle Energy Efficiency

In this paper, we present a novel trip prediction process whose main applications include vehicle energy efficiency optimization. The process is composed of multiple parts. First, a Markov chain model is built from quality-checked, real-world vehicle speed data. Secondly, a geographical information system (GIS), ADAS-RP, is used to define a real-world itinerary on a map-based interface. Finally, an algorithm runs the Markov chains under constraints from the GIS. As a result, any number of second-by-second stochastic speed profiles can be generated for a given itinerary. These speed profiles can then be inputs to vehicle powertrain models such as Autonomie, which can be used to predict energy consumption and other operational parameters. An example of the application of speed prediction is also described, involving route-based energy management for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, in which the knowledge of future speed profiles can be used to find the optimal energy split.

energy efficiency↗
DOE OSTI2015

Air pollution control systems in WtE units: An overview

Highlights: • The paper describes in brief terms the development of gas cleaning in waste incineration. • The main technologies for pollutant removal are described including their basic mechanisms. • Their respective efficiencies and their application are discussed. • A cautious outlook regarding future developments is made. - Abstract: All WtE (waste-to-energy) plants, based on combustion or other thermal processes, need an efficient gas cleaning for compliance with legislative air emission standards. The development of gas cleaning technologies started along with environment protection regulations in the late 1960s. Modern APC (air pollution control) systems comprise multiple stages for the removal of fly ashes, inorganic and organic gases, heavy metals, and dioxins from the flue gas. The main technologies and devices used for abatement of the various pollutants are described and their basic principles, their peculiarities, and their application are discussed. Few systems for cleaning of synthesis gas from waste gasification plants are included. Examples of APC designs in full scale plants are shown and cautious prospects for the future development of APC systems are made.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2025

Maximizing sunlight absorption in narrow bandgap semiconducting copper(I) iodides for enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation

Photocatalytic dye degradation leverages sunlight to break down dyes and pigments into safer, simpler molecules. Using a material that can absorb a broad range of the solar spectrum optimizes the speed and efficiency of this process. In this study, we explore a series of new, narrow bandgap copper iodide semiconductors (1.5–1.7 eV) with various dimensionalities (0D to 3D) to evaluate their photocatalytic efficiency in dye degradation. The most effective material achieved 95% degradation within just 27 minutes. Mass spectrometry provided a detailed insight and in-depth understanding into the degradation mechanism. All materials demonstrated excellent stability under ambient conditions, highlighting their promise as eco-friendly candidates for dye degradation in water purification.

Carignan, Gia M. [Rutgers Univ., Piscataway, NJ (U↗
DOE OSTI2011

Energy Efficiency Improvement and Cost Saving Opportunities for the Dairy Processing Industry: An ENERGY STAR? Guide for Energy and Plant Managers

The U.S. dairy processing industry—defined in this Energy Guide as facilities engaged in the conversion of raw milk to consumable dairy products—consumes around $1.5 billion worth of purchased fuels and electricity per year. Energy efficiency improvement is an important way to reduce these costs and to increase predictable earnings, especially in times of high energy price volatility. There are a variety of opportunities available at individual plants in the U.S. dairy processing industry to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in a cost-effective manner. This Energy Guide discusses energy efficiency practices and energy-efficient technologies that can be implemented at the component, process, facility, and organizational levels. A discussion of the trends, structure, and energy consumption characteristics of the U.S. dairy processing industry is provided along with a description of the major process technologies used within the industry. Next, a wide variety of energy efficiency measures applicable to dairy processing plants are described. Many measure descriptions include expected savings in energy and energy-related costs, based on case study data from real-world applications in dairy processing facilities and related industries worldwide. Typical measure payback periods and references to further information in the technical literature are also provided, when available. Given the importance of water in dairy processing, a summary of basic, proven measures for improving water efficiency are also provided. The information in this Energy Guide is intended to help energy and plant managers in the U.S. dairy processing industry reduce energy and water consumption in a cost-effective manner while maintaining the quality of products manufactured. Further research on the economics of all measures—as well as on their applicability to different production practices—is needed to assess their cost effectiveness at individual plants.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2025

Energy-Efficient Capacitive Deionization through Electrode Modification and Process Development

Electrochemical separation technologies, such as capacitive deionization (CDI), are promising for addressing global energy and water challenges. However, there is a need to improve the performance, better understand property-performance relationships, and evaluate the longevity of CDI electrodes. This study explores the chemical modification of electrodes and the adjustment of CDI operating parameters. Results indicate that nitric acid (HNO3) conditioning of activated carbon cloth (ACC) electrodes removes metal oxides, introduces oxygen and nitrogen functionalities, and increases the specific capacitance (16% at 1 mV/s). Moreover, these changes in electrode properties positively impact device-level CDI performance. Through HNO3-conditioning of the ACC and tuning of the operational parameters, this work demonstrates higher electrosorption capacity (4.0x), greater charge efficiency (90% vs 24%), and lower energy consumption (3.8x). Despite these enhancements, limitations of the HNO 3 -conditioned ACC include decreased desorption kinetics and a 32% loss in electrosorption capacity after 200 cycles. Overall, this work provides guidance on using oxidative pretreatment via HNO 3 to modify ACC electrodes for CDI and evaluates the trade-offs associated with varying operational parameters.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2015

Coherent spin control of a nanocavity-enhanced qubit in diamond

A central aim of quantum information processing is the efficient entanglement of multiple stationary quantum memories via photons. Among solid-state systems, the nitrogen-vacancy centre in diamond has emerged as an excellent optically addressable memory with second-scale electron spin coherence times. Recently, quantum entanglement and teleportation have been shown between two nitrogen-vacancy memories, but scaling to larger networks requires more efficient spin-photon interfaces such as optical resonators. Here we report such nitrogen-vacancy nanocavity systems in strong Purcell regime with optical quality factors approaching 10,000 and electron spin coherence times exceeding 200 µs using a silicon hard-mask fabrication process. This spin-photon interface is integrated with on-chip microwave striplines for coherent spin control, providing an efficient quantum memory for quantum networks.

77 NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2023

Recent developments in 3D-printed membranes for water desalination

The recognition of membrane separations as a vital technology platform for enhancing the efficiency of separation processes has been steadily increasing. Concurrently, 3D printing has emerged as an innovative approach to fabricating reverse osmosis membranes for water desalination and treatment purposes. This method provides a high degree of control over membrane chemistry and structural properties. In particular, when compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, 3D printing holds the potential to expedite customization, a feat that is typically achieved through conventional manufacturing methods but often involves numerous processes and significant costs. This review aims to present the current advancements in membrane manufacturing technology specifically tailored for water desalination purposes, with a particular focus on the development of 3D-printed membranes. A comprehensive analysis of recent progress in 3D-printed membranes is provided. However, conducting experimental work to investigate various influential factors while ensuring consistent results poses a significant challenge. To address this, we explore how membrane manufacturing processes and performance can be effectively pre-designed and guided through the use of molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, this review outlines the challenges faced and presents future perspectives to shed light on research directions for optimizing membrane manufacturing processes and achieving optimal membrane performance.

3D printing membranes↗
NASA NTRS1986

Thermally regenerative hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell power cycles

Two innovative thermodynamic power cycles are analytically examined for future engineering feasibility. The power cycles use a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell for electrical energy production and use the thermal dissociation of water for regeneration of the hydrogen and oxygen. The TDS (thermal dissociation system) uses a thermal energy input at over 2000 K to thermally dissociate the water. The other cycle, the HTE (high temperature electrolyzer) system, dissociates the water using an electrolyzer operating at high temperature (1300 K) which receives its electrical energy from the fuel cell. The primary advantages of these cycles is that they are basically a no moving parts system, thus having the potential for long life and high reliability, and they have the potential for high thermal efficiency. Both cycles are shown to be classical heat engines with ideal efficiency close to Carnot cycle efficiency. The feasibility of constructing actual cycles is investigated by examining process irreversibilities and device efficiencies for the two types of cycles. The results show that while the processes and devices of the 2000 K TDS exceed current technology limits, the high temperature electrolyzer system appears to be a state-of-the-art technology development. The requirements for very high electrolyzer and fuel cell efficiencies are seen as determining the feasbility of the HTE system, and these high efficiency devices are currently being developed. It is concluded that a proof-of-concept HTE system experiment can and should be conducted.

Morehouse, J. H.↗
DOE OSTI2014

Process for CO2 Capture Using Ionic Liquid That Exhibits Phase Change

A novel process for capturing carbon dioxide from the flue gas of a coal-fired power plant has been shown to reduce parasitic power consumption substantially. The process employs an ionic liquid created at the University of Notre Dame that has a high capacity for absorbing CO2 by chemical reaction. A distinguishing property of this ionic liquid is that it changes phase from solid to liquid upon reaction with CO2. The process uses heat generated by this phase transition to lower parasitic power consumption. The driving force for CO2 separation is a combination of temperature and pressure differences; the process could even work without the addition of heat. A realistic process was created to capture CO2 efficiently. Computer simulation of the process enabled calculation of viable process conditions and power usage. The main concepts of the process were shown to work using a lab-scale apparatus. Parasitic power consumes 23% of net power generation, 55% lower than that of the monoethanolamine (MEA) process. However, capital cost is higher. The cost of electricity (COE) is 28% lower than that of the MEA process.

Eisinger, RS↗
DOE OSTI2025

Demonstration of closed shell breeding of cesium ions with an electron beam ion source

An electron beam ion source serves as a charge breeder for the Californium Rare Isotope Breeder Upgrade (CARIBU) at the Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System (ATLAS). The source accepts radioactive beams of 1+ or 2+ ions and raises their charge state for post-acceleration by ATLAS. The efficiency of this process impacts the length of each experiment and, hence, the type and number of experiments that can be run in each program cycle. Recent efforts to improve the charge breeding efficiency for the 80 < A < 160 species typical of CARIBU have focused on utilizing the closed shell breeding technique. Here, with this technique, the electron beam energy is manipulated to take advantage of the large gap in ionization energies at shell closures and selectively populate a single charge state. Charge breeding studies with stable cesium ions have demonstrated an absolute efficiency of 72% for Cs 27+ and a total efficiency of 93%. The Cs 27+ efficiency result represents a factor of 3 improvement over the previous best charge breeding result of 23% for Cs 27+ .

Vondrasek, R. [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), ↗
DOE OSTI2015

Capturing Energy Efficiency in Residential Real Estate Transactions

This report provides examples of programs across the U.S. that are successfully engaging the real estate community and overcoming barriers to valuing energy efficiency in the home resale process. The paper recommends actions that efficiency real estate professionals can take to facilitate the availability and use of reliable energy information at point of sale.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
NASA NTRS1992

Shared visions: Partnership of Rockwell International and NASA Cost Effectiveness Enhancements (CEE) for the space shuttle system integration program

As a result of limited resources and tight fiscal constraints over the past several years, the defense and aerospace industries have experienced a downturn in business activity. The impact of fewer contracts being awarded has placed a greater emphasis for effectiveness and efficiency on industry contractors. It is clear that a reallocation of resources is required for America to continue to lead the world in space and technology. The key to technological and economic survival is the transforming of existing programs, such as the Space Shuttle Program, into more cost efficient programs so as to divert the savings to other NASA programs. The partnership between Rockwell International and NASA and their joint improvement efforts that resulted in significant streamlining and cost reduction measures to Rockwell International Space System Division's work on the Space Shuttle System Integration Contract is described. This work was a result of an established Cost Effectiveness Enhancement (CEE) Team formed initially in Fiscal Year 1991, and more recently expanded to a larger scale CEE Initiative in 1992. By working closely with the customer in agreeing to contract content, obtaining management endorsement and commitment, and involving the employees in total quality management (TQM) and continuous improvement 'teams,' the initial annual cost reduction target was exceeded significantly. The CEE Initiative helped reduce the cost of the Shuttle Systems Integration contract while establishing a stronger program based upon customer needs, teamwork, quality enhancements, and cost effectiveness. This was accomplished by systematically analyzing, challenging, and changing the established processes, practices, and systems. This examination, in nature, was work intensive due to the depth and breadth of the activity. The CEE Initiative has provided opportunities to make a difference in the way Rockwell and NASA work together - to update the methods and processes of the organizations. The future success of NASA space programs and Rockwell hinges upon the ability to adopt new, more efficient and effective work processes. Efficiency, proficiency, cost effectiveness, and teamwork are a necessity for economic survival. Continuous improvement initiatives like the CEE are, and will continue to be, vehicles by which the road can be traveled with a vision to the future.

Bejmuk, Bohdan I.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Total quality management: It works for aerospace information services

Today we are in the midst of information and 'total quality' revolutions. At the NASA STI Program's Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI), we are focused on using continuous improvements techniques to enrich today's services and products and to ensure that tomorrow's technology supports the TQM-based improvement of future STI program products and services. The Continuous Improvements Program at CASI is the foundation for Total Quality Management in products and services. The focus is customer-driven; its goal, to identify processes and procedures that can be improved and new technologies that can be integrated with the processes to gain efficiencies, provide effectiveness, and promote customer satisfaction. This Program seeks to establish quality through an iterative defect prevention approach that is based on the incorporation of standards and measurements into the processing cycle. Four projects are described that utilize cross-functional, problem-solving teams for identifying requirements and defining tasks and task standards, management participation, attention to critical processes, and measurable long-term goals. The implementation of these projects provides the customer with measurably improved access to information that is provided through several channels: the NASA STI Database, document requests for microfiche and hardcopy, and the Centralized Help Desk.

Erwin, James↗
NASA NTRS1993

Total quality management - It works for aerospace information services

Today we are in the midst of information and 'total quality' revolutions. At the NASA STI Program's Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI), we are focused on using continuous improvements techniques to enrich today's services and products and to ensure that tomorrow's technology supports the TQM-based improvement of future STI program products and services. The Continuous Improvements Program at CASI is the foundation for Total Quality Management in products and services. The focus is customer-driven; its goal, to identify processes and procedures that can be improved and new technologies that can be integrated with the processes to gain efficiencies, provide effectiveness, and promote customer satisfaction. This Program seeks to establish quality through an iterative defect prevention approach that is based on the incorporation of standards and measurements into the processing cycle.

Erwin, James↗
DOE OSTI2013

Study on a regeneration process of LiCl-KCl eutectic based waste salt generated from the pyrochemical process

A regeneration process of LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt generated from the pyrochemical process of spent nuclear fuel has been studied. This regeneration process is composed of a chemical conversion process and a vacuum distillation process. Through the regeneration process, a high efficiency of renewable salt recovery can be obtained from the waste salt and rare earth nuclides in the waste salt can be separated as oxide or phosphate forms. Thus, the regeneration process can contribute greatly to a reduction of the waste volume and a creation of durable final waste forms. (authors)

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗
DOE OSTI2012

ALL CURLED UP: A NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF SHOCK-BUBBLE INTERACTIONS AND THE ROLE OF VORTICES IN HEATING GALAXY CLUSTERS

Jets from active galactic nuclei (AGNs) in the centers of galaxy clusters inflate cavities of low-density relativistic plasma and drive shock and sound waves into the intracluster medium. When these waves overrun previously inflated cavities, they form a differentially rotating vortex through the Richtmyer-Meshkov instability (RMI). The dissipation of energy captured in the vortex can contribute to the feedback of energy into the atmospheres of cool core clusters. Using a series of hydrodynamic simulations, we investigate the efficiency of this process: we calculate the kinetic energy in the vortex by decomposing the velocity field into its irrotational and solenoidal parts. Compared to the two-dimensional case, the three-dimensional RMI is about a factor of two more efficient. The energy in the vortex field for weak shocks is E{sub vortex} Almost-Equal-To {rho}{sub ICM}{Delta} v{sup 2}{sub shock} V{sub bubble} (with dependence on the geometry, density contrast, and shock width). For strong shocks, the vortex becomes dynamically unstable, quickly dissipating its energy via a turbulent cascade. We derive a number of diagnostics for observations and laboratory experiments of shock-bubble interactions, like the shock-vortex standoff distance, which can be used to derive lower limits on the Mach number. The differential rotation of the vortex field leads to viscous dissipation, which is sufficiently efficient to react to cluster cooling and to dissipate the vortex energy within the cooling radius of the cluster for a reasonable range of vortex parameters. For sufficiently large filling factors (of order a few percent or larger), this process could thus contribute significantly to AGN feedback in galaxy clusters.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2016

Synergy effect in sonodegradation of organic dye using graphene based magnetite composite materials

Owing to the unique physical properties, nanographene platelets could act as a good recombination inhibitor for functional materials. In this study, various concentrations of nanographene platelets are introduced to ferromagnetic Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles to remove methylene blue in aqueous solution under ultrasonic irradiation. The coupling of nanographene platelets with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles is formed using hydrothermal method. Compared to pure Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}–nanographene platelets (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}–NGP) composites exhibited higher catalytic efficiency for methylene blue removal under ultrasonic irradiation. The catalytic efficiency increase with increasing nanographene platelets loading from 1 wt.% until 5 wt% and further decreased. From the scavenger technique, it is revealed that hole plays an important key role in sonocatalytic processes. The degradation efficiency decreased only 12% after 4 cycled.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗