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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 1,693 records · Page 94
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1988

Element-by-element and implicit-explicit finite element formulations for computational fluid dynamics

Preconditioner algorithms to reduce the computational effort in FEM analyses of large-scale fluid-dynamics problems are presented. A general model problem is constructed on the basis of the convection-diffusion equation and the two-dimensional vorticity/stream-function formulation of the Navier-Stokes equations; this problem is then analyzed using element-by-element, implicit-explicit, and adaptive implicit-explicit approximation schemes. Numerical results for the two-dimensional advection and rigid-body rotation of a cosine hill, flow past a circular cylinder, and driven cavity flow are presented in extensive graphs and shown to be in good agreement with those obtained using implicit methods.

Tezduyar, T. E.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Linear tearing modes of a forced current-sheet equilibrium

Linear tearing modes are studied in a nearly singular forced current-sheet equilibrium, such as could result from global magnetic forces in the solar corona. Growth rates for the tearing modes, determined by solving the linearized reduced MHD (Strauss) equations numerically, were found to scale as (gamma)tau(d) = about S exp 4/5 k(y) exp 4/5, where S is the Lundquist number, k(y) is the wavenumber, and tau(d) is the classical resistive diffusion time. This scaling is in agreement with predictions from analytical theory. Because of the faster S scaling of these modes compared to the tearing modes of a diffuse current-sheet equilibrium, the modes have much higher growth rates (by a factor of about 10,000) for coronal values of S (about 10 to the 12th). For coronal parameters, the growth times of these new modes are estimated to be on the order of several hours to days, as compared to growth times of months to years for the tearing modes in a diffuse current-shear equilibrium. The growth times are comparable to reconnection times scales required in models of coronal heating by magnetic field dissipation.

Liewer, Paulett C.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Correcting for diffraction in the far-infrared reflectance measurement of rough surfaces

The manner in which diffraction can increase the reflectance measured from very rough surfaces is shown by observations of diffracted light within the instrument profile of a far-IR reflectometer system. A correction to the calibration signal based on numerical integration of the diffracted part of the instrument profile is described. Diffraction correction factors as large as 2.94 have been found with small optics at long wavelength (630 microns). The effect of diffraction on diffuse reflectance measurements of a very rough perfect reflector is shown at wavelengths from 56 to 200 microns.

Smith, Sheldon M.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Tectonic and climatic significance of a late Eocene low-relief, high-level geomorphic surface, Colorado

New paleobotanical data suggest that in the late Eocene the erosion surface which capped the Front Range, Colorado was 2.2-2.3 km in elevation, which is similar to the 2.5-km present elevation of surface remnants. This estimated elevation casts doubt on the conventional belief that the low-relief geomorphic surface was formed by lateral planation of streams to a base level not much higher than sea level and that the present deeply incised canyons must represent Neogene uplift of Colorado. Description of the surface, calculations of sediment volume, and isostatic balance and fluvial landsculpting models demonstrate that while the high elevation of the erosion surface was due to tectonic forces, its smoothness was mostly a result of climatic factors. A sediment balance calculated for the Front Range suggests that from 2 to 4 km of material were eroded by the late Eocene, consistent with fission track ages. This amount of erosion would remove a significant portionof the 7 km of Laramide upper crustal thickening. Isostatic modeling implies that the 2.2-3.3 km elevation was most likely created by lower crustal thickening during the Laramide. A numerical model of fluvial erosion and deposition suggests a way that a late Eocene surface could have formed at this high elevation without incision. A humid climate with a preponderance of small storm events will diffusively smooth topography and is a possible mechanism for formation oflow-relief, high-level surfaces. Paleoclimate models suggest a lack of large strom events in the late Eocene because of cool sea surface temperatures in the equatorial region. Return to a drier but stormier climate post-Eocene could have caused the incision of the surface by young canyons. By this interpretation, regional erosion surfaces may represent regional climatic rather than tectonic conditions.

Gregory, Kathryn M.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Partially Coherent Scattering in Stellar Chromospheres: Analytic Wing Approximations - Part 4

Simple analytic expressions are derived to understand resonance-line wings in stellar chromospheres and similar astrophysical plasmas. The results are approximate, but compare well with accurate numerical simulations. The redistribution is modeled using an extension of the partially coherent scattering approximation (PCS) which we term the comoving-frame partially coherent scattering approximation (CPCS). The distinction is made here because Doppler diffusion is included in the coherent/noncoherent decomposition, in a form slightly improved from the earlier papers in this series.

Gayley, K. G.↗
NASA NTRS1998

The Oxidation of AlN in Dry and Wet Oxygen

The oxidation kinetics of AlN containing 3.5 wt% Y2O3 were studied by thermogravimetric analysis in dry oxygen and 10% H2O/balance oxygen at temperatures between 1000 and 1200 C for times between 48 and 100 h. The oxidation kinetics for AlN in dry oxygen were parabolic and of approximately the same magnitude and temperature dependence as other alumina forming materials. In this case, diffusion of oxygen and/or aluminum through the alumina scale is the rate limiting mechanism. The oxidation kinetics for AlN in wet oxygen were nearly linear and much more rapid than rates observed in dry oxygen. Numerous micropores were observed in the alumina formed on AIN in wet oxygen. These pores provide a fast path for oxygen transport. The linear kinetics observed in this case suggest that the interface reaction rate of AlN with wet oxygen is the oxidation rate limiting step.

Opila, Elizabeth↗
NASA NTRS2011

The Diffusion Region in Collisionless Magnetic Reconnection

A review of present understanding of the dissipation region in magnetic reconnection is presented. The review focuses on results of the thermal inertia-based dissipation mechanism but alternative mechanisms are mentioned as well. For the former process, a combination of analytical theory and numerical modeling is presented. Furthermore, a new relation between the electric field expressions for anti-parallel and guide field reconnection is developed.

Hesse, Michael↗
NASA NTRS2015

Numerical Study of the High-Speed Leg of a Wind Tunnel

The paper describes the numerical study of the high-speed leg of the NASA Langley 14 by 22-foot Low Speed Wind Tunnel. The high-speed leg consists of the Settling Chamber, Contraction, Test Section, and First Diffuser. Results are shown comparing two different exit boundary conditions and two different methods of determining the surface geometry.

Nayani, Sudheer↗
DOE OSTI2026

Multiscale Modeling and Experimental Insights into High-Temperature Soil Biodegradation Dynamics of Semi-Crystalline Poly(Lactic Acid) Nonwoven Fabrics

This study investigates the biodegradation of semi-crystalline poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nonwovens (NWs) in soil at 58 °C using both experimental and mathematical modeling approaches. The model utilizes a system of parabolic diffusion-reaction partial differential equations (PDEs) to elucidate chemical transformations over time and in space. It accounts for phenomena such as the diffusion of water and lactic acid monomers through the polymer matrix and into the surrounding soil, along with their microbial breakdown. It also accounts for the initial PLA crystallinity and predicts its evolution in time. The model is solved numerically for a single filament, and the results were used to shed light on PLA NW transformations observed in soil over a 180-day incubation period. Various characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Raman spectroscopy, were employed to assess morphological changes, crystallinity, and molecular changes in the NWs throughout the experiment. By comparing the experimental data with the model predictions, the hydrolysis rate coefficient was found to be 3.37 × 10 -7 s -1 , while the rate of microbial degradation of lactic acid monomers was faster, of the order of 9.63 × 10 -7 s -1 . The findings highlight the significant role of crystallinity in the biodegradation process. The PLA degradation ceases when no amorphous material remains, and the crystallinity reaches 0.8, as observed in the experiments by day 120. Furthermore, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of PLA biodegradation dynamics and offers insights for effectively managing biodegradable materials in environmental settings.

Diffusion−reaction modeling↗
DOE OSTI2017

Leith diffusion model for homogeneous anisotropic turbulence

Here, a proposal for a spectral closure model for homogeneous anisotropic turbulence. The systematic development begins by closing the third-order correlation describing nonlinear interactions by an anisotropic generalization of the Leith diffusion model for isotropic turbulence. The correlation tensor is then decomposed into a tensorially isotropic part, or directional anisotropy, and a trace-free remainder, or polarization anisotropy. The directional and polarization components are then decomposed using irreducible representations of the SO(3) symmetry group. Under the ansatz that the decomposition is truncated at quadratic order, evolution equations are derived for the directional and polarization pieces of the correlation tensor. Here, numerical simulation of the model equations for a freely decaying anisotropic flow illustrate the non-trivial effects of spectral dependencies on the different return-to-isotropy rates of the directional and polarization contributions.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
NASA NTRS1992

Nonlinear vibration and radiation from a panel with transition to chaos

The dynamic response of an aircraft panel forced at resonance and off-resonance by plane acoustic waves at normal incidence is investigated experimentally and numerically. Linear, nonlinear (period doubling), and chaotic responses are obtained by increasing the sound pressure level of the excitation. The response time history is sensitive to the input level and to the frequency of excitation. The change in response behavior is due to a change in input conditions, triggered either naturally or by modulation of the bandwidth of the incident waves. Off-resonance bifurcation is diffused and difficult to maintain; thus the panel response drifts into a linear behavior. The acoustic pressure emanated by the panel is either linear or nonlinear as is the vibration response. The nonlinear effects accumulate during the propagation with distance. Results are also obtained on the control of the panel response using damping tape on an aluminum panel and a graphite epoxy panel having the same size and weight. Good agreement is obtained betwen the experimental and numerical results.

Maestrello, Lucio↗
NASA NTRS1992

Nonlinear vibration and radiation from a panel with transition to chaos induced by acoustic waves

The dynamic response of an aircraft panel forced at resonance and off-resonance by plane acoustic waves at normal incidence is investigated experimentally and numerically. Linear, nonlinear (period doubling) and chaotic responses are obtained by increasing the sound pressure level of the excitation. The response time history is sensitive to the input level and to the frequency of excitation. The change in response behavior is due to a change in input conditions, triggered either naturally or by modulation of the bandwidth of the incident waves. Off-resonance, bifurcation is diffused and difficult to maintain, thus the panel response drifts into a linear behavior. The acoustic pressure emanated by the panel is either linear or nonlinear as is the vibration response. The nonlinear effects accumulate during the propagation with distance. Results are also obtained on the control of the panel response using damping tape on aluminum panel and using a graphite epoxy panel having the same size and weight. Good agreement is obtained between the experimental and numerical results.

Maestrello, Lucio↗
DOE OSTI2016

3D numerical modeling of the carrier transport and radiative efficiency for InGaN/GaN light emitting diodes with V-shaped pits

In this paper, influence of a V-pit embedded inside the multiple quantum wells (MQWs) LED was studied. A fully three-dimensional stress-strain solver and Poisson-drift-diffusion solver are employed to study the current path, where the quantum efficiency and turn-on voltage will be discussed. Our results show that the hole current is not only from top into lateral quantum wells (QWs) but flowing through shallow sidewall QWs and then injecting into the deeper lateral QWs in V-pit structures, where the V-pit geometry provides more percolation length for holes to make the distribution uniform along lateral MQWs. The IQE behavior with different V-pit sizes, threading dislocation densities, and current densities were analyzed. Substantially, the variation of the quantum efficiency for different V-pit sizes is due to the trap-assisted nonradiative recombination, effective QW ratio, and ability of hole injections.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
DOE OSTI2024

Energetic Particles - microturbulence interaction thrust (EP SIWG white paper)

This white paper outlines a strategic approach to Energetic Particle (EP) research, aimed at applying the results to the future burning devices such as ITER. Our goal is to deepen the understanding of the interplay between plasma background microturbulence and diverse species of energetic ions in burning plasma devices. This strategy is poised to advance our knowledge in this crucial area of fusion science, paving the way for significant breakthroughs in plasma physics and fusion energy research. We consider the confinement of energetic ions such as auxiliary heating beams, minority ions from ICRH, and fusion product alpha particles. Recent studies have underscored the potential of EP/microturbulence interaction to enhance fusion plasma performance by stabilizing microturbulence. However, it also poses risks, such as exacerbating Alfvénic eigenmode (AE) instabilities, which could compromise the sustainability of plasma discharge by causing EP losses. The interplay between EPs and background microturbulence is evident in the phenomenon of effective pitch angle scattering, a crucial aspect of the quasilinear (QL) theory. This theory is integral to developing numerically-efficient yet comprehensive and self-consistent approaches, recently employed to investigate the relaxation of energetic particle populations in the holistic modeling of fusion-grade plasmas. The primary objectives of this white paper thrust encompass a dual focus. First is that we need to delve into the mechanisms through which microturbulence engenders effective pitch angle scattering. This investigation will entail the examination of the presence of known or self-consistently predicted spectra of modes accountable for microturbulence. In these explorations, electrostatic microturbulence serves as a logical initial stride towards achieving the trust's objectives. This endeavor is anticipated to yield formulations expressing the parametric dependencies of the effective pitch angle scattering frequency on variables such as thermal plasma electron and/or ion temperatures, as well as their respective thermal conductivities. In our second objective, we aim to delve into the intricate formation of zonal flow (ZF) structures amidst the complex interplay of microturbulence and Alfvenic eigenmodes (AEs). This endeavor poses greater challenges as we seek to unravel the macroscopic manifestations influenced by microturbulence, termed as zonal structures (ZS), stemming from microturbulence-induced ZF. Drawing from this understanding, we anticipate employing a QL approach to yield comprehensive insights into the distribution function of energetic particles (EP) within phase space. This method entails resolving the dominant multidimensional phase space diffusion processes while effectively averaging over the rapid ballistic responses. Nevertheless, substantial strides remain imperative to realize a comprehensive whole-device modeling framework. This entails meticulous verification and validation exercises against experimental observations, as well as rigorous benchmarking against theoretical frameworks and numerical simulations.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2019

Bidirectional reflection of semitransparent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sheets on a silver film

In our recent work, record-high solar reflectance (exceeding 99%) has been demonstrated by placing a layer of highly scattering, semitransparent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sheet on top of a silver film. This can significantly improve the performance of daytime radiative cooling system. Although a PTFE slab of 10-mm thick acts as an excellent diffuse reflector, it is unclear how this dual-layer structure made of a thin PTFE on a mirror-like reflector will alter the bidirectional reflection. Here, we report measurements of the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) of the dual-layer structure using a laser scatterometer at the wavelength of 635 nm. Measurements of the BRDF and the bidirectional transmittance distribution function (BTDF) of free-standing PTFE sheets are also performed. The measured BRDF for a PTFE sheet as thin as 236 μm on Ag is essentially diffuse except at large incidence angles. A Monte Carlo ray-tracing method incorporating both surface scattering and volumetric scattering is developed to theoretically model the BRDF in order to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Finally, the numerical model captures the main features and can be used to study the bidirectional properties for PTFE sheets thinner than what is experimentally available.

42 ENGINEERING↗
DOE OSTI2023

The Role of Surface Hydroxyls in the Mobility of Carboxylates on Surfaces: Dynamics of Acetate on Anatase TiO 2 (101)

The dynamics of reactive intermediates are important in catalysis for understanding transient species, which can drive reactivity and the transport of species to reaction centers. In particular, the interplay between surface-bound carboxylic acids and carboxylates is important for numerous chemical transformations, including CO 2 hydrogenation and ketonization. Here, we investigate the dynamics of acetic acid on anatase TiO 2 (101) using scanning tunneling microscopy experiments and density functional theory calculations. We demonstrate the concomitant diffusion of bidentate acetate and a bridging hydroxyl and provide evidence for the transient formation of molecular monodentate acetic acid. The diffusion rate is strongly dependent on the position of hydroxyl and adjacent acetate(s). A facile three-step diffusion process is proposed consisting of acetate and hydroxyl recombination, acetic acid rotation, and acetic acid dissociation. Here this study clearly demonstrates that the dynamics of bidentate acetate could be important in forming monodentate species, which are proposed to drive selective ketonization.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2023

Electron kinetics in a positive column of AC discharges in a dynamic regime

Abstract We have performed hybrid kinetic-fluid simulations of a positive column in alternating current (AC) argon discharges over a range of driving frequencies f and gas pressure p for the conditions when the spatial nonlocality of the electron energy distribution function (EEDF) is substantial. Our simulations confirmed that the most efficient conditions of plasma maintenance are observed in the dynamic regime when time modulations of mean electron energy (temperature) are substantial. The minimal values of the root mean square electric field and the electron temperature have been observed at f/p values of about 3 kHz Torr −1 in a tube of radius R = 1 cm. The ionization rate and plasma density reached maximal values under these conditions. The numerical solution of a kinetic equation allowed accounting for the kinetic effects associated with spatial and temporal nonlocality of the EEDF. Using the kinetic energy of electrons as an independent variable, we solved an anisotropic tensor diffusion equation in phase space. We clarified the role of different flux components during electron diffusion in phase space over surfaces of constant total energy. We have shown that the kinetic theory uncovers a more exciting and rich physics than the classical ambipolar diffusion (Schottky) model. Non-monotonic radial distributions of excitation rates, metastable densities, and plasma density have been observed in our simulations at pR > 6 Torr cm. The predicted off-axis plasma density peak in the dynamic regime has never been observed in experiments so far. We hope our results stimulate further experimental studies of the AC positive column. The kinetic analysis could help uncover new physics even for such a well-known plasma object as a positive column in noble gases.

Physics↗
DOE OSTI2025

Measurement of Zero-Frequency Fluctuations Generated by Coupling between Alfvén Modes in the JET Tokamak

We report the first experimental detection of a zero-frequency fluctuation that is pumped by an Alfvén mode in a magnetically confined plasma. Core-localized Alfvén modes of frequency inside the toroidicity-induced gap (and its harmonics) exhibit three-wave coupling interactions with a zero-frequency fluctuation. The observation of the zero-frequency fluctuation is consistent with theoretical and numerical predictions of zonal modes pumped by Alfvén modes, and is correlated with an increase in the deep core ion temperature, temperature gradient, confinement factor H 89,P , and a reduction in the main ion heat diffusivity. Despite the energetic particle transport induced by the Alfvén eigenmodes, the generation of a zero-frequency fluctuation that can suppress the turbulence leads to an overall improvement of confinement.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗