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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 19 records
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Microscopic Measurement: Need for Nuclear Material Sample Specimen Characterization Capability

The Surveillance, Fabrication, and Off-Site Operations team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is beginning an update to the nuclear material machining lab in Superblock. Plutonium and other nuclear materials tend to accelerate the aging process for equipment and machines that would otherwise be maintainable for long lives. They have their lifespans shortened from deteriorated seals, embrittled polymer components, accelerated corrosion, and damage to electronics from exposure to radioactive materials. The cost of installation of equipment into a glove box (GB) tends to outstrip the cost of the equipment itself. Due to the magnification of cost, the historical approach to equipment installs has been to purchase and install the highest-quality and most robust equipment available to maximize time between failures and updates. To make room for the installation of a new lathe, the inspection GB is being moved to a different location within the machining lab. As part of the overall effort, the equipment within the inspection GB is being revisited. Current measurement capabilities are antiquated and starting to become problematic due to age. Advances in metrology are sought for more comprehensive characterization of scientific samples. This document aims to identify several options for the replacement of current measurement equipment and identify a system for purchase and eventual installation. The intention is not to select the cheapest system, but rather to identify a system that best meets the needs of both the operators and principal investigators (PI). Following the convention of the SYSM-5620 Design Thinking and System Engineering, it was determined that a laser confocal measurement system from Keyence is the most suitable option for our programmatic need. Form factor, capability, and maintainability were considered. Along with stakeholder input, to ensure the best decision for the Nuclear Material Technology Program.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2020

A Python Instrument Control and Data Acquisition Suite for Reproducible Research

Tools that standardize and automate experimental data collection are needed for greater confidence in research results. The National Synchrotron Light Source-II (NSLS-II) has generated an open-source Python data acquisition, management, and analysis software suite that automates X-ray experiments and collects an experimental record that facilitates complete reproducibility. Here, we show that the NSLS-II tools are not only useful for X-ray science at large-scale facilities by presenting an add-on package that adapts these tools for use in a small laboratory with common physics and electrical engineering instruments. The composite software suite eases and automates the execution of experiments, records extensive metadata, stores data in portable containers, and speeds up the analysis through tools for comprehensive searches. In total, this software suite increases the reproducibility of laboratory experiments. We demonstrate the software via the evaluation of two lock-in amplifiers-the miniature ADA2200 and the ubiquitous Stanford Research Systems (SRS) SR810. The frequency resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, and dynamic reserve of the lock-in amplifiers are measured and presented. The usage of the software suite is described throughout these measurements so that the reader can implement the tools in their lab.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2022

Performance Testing of Software Upgrade for SRNL CPC Instrument at the Nuclear Material Laboratory, Office of Safeguards Analytical Services, International Atomic Energy Agency

This report summarizes the performance testing for the Software upgrade for the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) Controlled Potential Coulometry (CPC) instrument. This upgrade is specifically to meet the needs of the Nuclear Material Laboratory, Office of Safeguards Analytical Services, International Atomic Energy Agency at Seibersdorf, Austria. The instrument hardware was upgraded in 2010, but the software continued to operate on a Windows platform using a High Tech Basic (HT Basic) application. HT Basic usage is declining. The IAEA requested an upgrade to the existing coulometer software to Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench (LabVIEW), an object-oriented programming language in wide use and one the NML staff is familiar with. The software was developed by SRNL Software Engineer, with assistance from Electrical Engineer and Scientist. Once developed, the new LabVIEW software was validated, tested with Iron (surrogate for plutonium) and plutonium. Once testing was completed, the software was installed at the International Atomic Energy Agency Nuclear Material Laboratory (IAEA NML) coulometer, and SRNL provided hands on training to NML staff on using the new software.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2021

Timing characterization of fast hCMOS sensors

We describe a method of analyzing gate profile data for ultrafast x-ray imagers that allows pixel-by-pixel determination of temporal sensitivity in the presence of substantial background oscillations. With this method, systematic timing errors in gate width and gate arrival time of up to 1 ns (in a 2 ns wide gate) can be removed. In-sensor variations in gate arrival and gate width are observed, with variations in each up to 0.5 ns. This method can be used to estimate the coarse timing of the sensor, even if errors up to several ns are present.

Benedetti, L. R. (ORCID:0000000160502983)↗
DOE OSTI2021

Simulating 50 keV X-ray Photon Detection in Silicon with a Down-Conversion Layer

Simulation results are presented that explore an innovative, new design for X-ray detection in the 20–50 keV range that is an alternative to traditional direct and indirect detection methods. Typical indirect detection using a scintillator must trade-off between absorption efficiency and spatial resolution. With a high-Z layer that down-converts incident photons on top of a silicon detector, this design has increased absorption efficiency without sacrificing spatial resolution. Simulation results elucidate the relationship between the thickness of each layer and the number of photoelectrons generated. Further, the physics behind the production of electron-hole pairs in the silicon layer is studied via a second model to shed more light on the detector’s functionality. Together, the two models provide a greater understanding of this detector and reveal the potential of this novel form of X-ray detection.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Vehicle Localization in 3D World Coordinates Using Single Camera at Traffic Intersection

Optimizing traffic control systems at traffic intersections can reduce the network-wide fuel consumption, as well as emissions of conventional fuel-powered vehicles. While traffic signals have been controlled based on predetermined schedules, various adaptive signal control systems have recently been developed using advanced sensors such as cameras, radars, and LiDARs. Among these sensors, cameras can provide a cost-effective way to determine the number, location, type, and speed of the vehicles for better-informed decision-making at traffic intersections. In this research, a new approach for accurately determining vehicle locations near traffic intersections using a single camera is presented. For that purpose, a well-known object detection algorithm called YOLO is used to determine vehicle locations in video images captured by a traffic camera. YOLO draws a bounding box around each detected vehicle, and the vehicle location in the image coordinates is converted to the world coordinates using camera calibration data. During this process, a significant error between the center of a vehicle’s bounding box and the real center of the vehicle in the world coordinates is generated due to the angled view of the vehicles by a camera installed on a traffic light pole. As a means of mitigating this vehicle localization error, two different types of regression models are trained and applied to the centers of the bounding boxes of the camera-detected vehicles. The accuracy of the proposed approach is validated using both static camera images and live-streamed traffic video. Based on the improved vehicle localization, it is expected that more accurate traffic signal control can be made to improve the overall network-wide energy efficiency and traffic flow at traffic intersections.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Reflective Fiber Temperature Probe Based on Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance towards Low-Cost and Wireless Interrogation

Reflection fiber temperature sensors functionalized with plasmonic nanocomposite material using intensity-based modulation are demonstrated for the first time. Characteristic temperature optical response of the reflective fiber sensor is experimentally tested using Au-incorporated nanocomposite thin films deposited on the fiber tip, and theoretically validated using a thin-film-optic-based optical waveguide model. By optimizing the Au concentration in a dielectric matrix, Au nanoparticles (NP) exhibit a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) absorption band in a visible wavelength that shows a temperature sensitivity ~0.025%/°C as a result of electron–electron and electron–phonon scattering of Au NP and the surrounding matrix. Detailed optical material properties of the on-fiber sensor film are characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and focused-ion beam (FIB)-assisted transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Airy’s expression of transmission and reflection using complex optical constants of layered media is used to model the reflective optical waveguide. A low-cost wireless interrogator based on a photodiode transimpedance-amplifier (TIA) circuit with a low-pass filter is designed to integrate with the sensor. The converted analog voltage is wirelessly transmitted via 2.4 GHz Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) protocols. Feasibility is demonstrated for portable, remotely interrogated next-generation fiber optic temperature sensors with future capability for monitoring additional parameters of interest.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2023

Sensor Fusion-Based Vehicle Detection and Tracking Using a Single Camera and Radar at a Traffic Intersection

Recent advancements in sensor technologies, in conjunction with signal processing and machine learning, have enabled real-time traffic control systems to adapt to varying traffic conditions. This paper introduces a new sensor fusion approach that combines data from a single camera and radar to achieve cost-effective and efficient vehicle detection and tracking. Initially, vehicles are independently detected and classified using the camera and radar. Then, the constant-velocity model within a Kalman filter is employed to predict vehicle locations, while the Hungarian algorithm is used to associate these predictions with sensor measurements. Finally, vehicle tracking is accomplished by merging kinematic information from predictions and measurements through the Kalman filter. A case study conducted at an intersection demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed sensor fusion method for traffic detection and tracking, including performance comparisons with individual sensors.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2024

Vehicle Position Detection Based on Machine Learning Algorithms in Dynamic Wireless Charging

Dynamic wireless charging (DWC) has emerged as a viable approach to mitigate range anxiety by ensuring continuous and uninterrupted charging for electric vehicles in motion. DWC systems rely on the length of the transmitter, which can be categorized into long-track transmitters and segmented coil arrays. The segmented coil array, favored for its heightened efficiency and reduced electromagnetic interference, stands out as the preferred option. However, in such DWC systems, the need arises to detect the vehicle’s position, specifically to activate the transmitter coils aligned with the receiver pad and de-energize uncoupled transmitter coils. This paper introduces various machine learning algorithms for precise vehicle position determination, accommodating diverse ground clearances of electric vehicles and various speeds. Through testing eight different machine learning algorithms and comparing the results, the random forest algorithm emerged as superior, displaying the lowest error in predicting the actual position.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2024

Nanoscale Three-Dimensional Imaging of Integrated Circuits Using a Scanning Electron Microscope and Transition-Edge Sensor Spectrometer

X-ray nanotomography is a powerful tool for the characterization of nanoscale materials and structures, but it is difficult to implement due to the competing requirements of X-ray flux and spot size. Due to this constraint, state-of-the-art nanotomography is predominantly performed at large synchrotron facilities. We present a laboratory-scale nanotomography instrument that achieves nanoscale spatial resolution while addressing the limitations of conventional tomography tools. The instrument combines the electron beam of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with the precise, broadband X-ray detection of a superconducting transition-edge sensor (TES) microcalorimeter. The electron beam generates a highly focused X-ray spot on a metal target held micrometers away from the sample of interest, while the TES spectrometer isolates target photons with a high signal-to-noise ratio. This combination of a focused X-ray spot, energy-resolved X-ray detection, and unique system geometry enables nanoscale, element-specific X-ray imaging in a compact footprint. The proof of concept for this approach to X-ray nanotomography is demonstrated by imaging 160 nm features in three dimensions in six layers of a Cu-SiO 2 integrated circuit, and a path toward finer resolution and enhanced imaging capabilities is discussed.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2021

MicroResonators for Compacts Optical Sensors (μRCOS)

As the demand for continuous, in-situ surveillance of health of systems and environments rapidly increases, miniaturized sensors with fast responses are sought. Optical dielectric resonators supporting Whispering Gallery Modes (WGMs) have exceptional properties, like very high-power density, very narrow spectral linewidth, and extremely small mode volume. As the footprint of these sensors is drastically reduced, measurements of microvolumes samples with dramatic reduction in analysis time are possible, enabling large numbers of parallel analyses using microarrays. The high sensitivity and speed of WGM resonators combined with the ability to detect molecules in their native state have great future potential for basic and applied research such as reliable single molecule, trace-gas detection, environmental monitoring, chemical threat sensing, and biodefense Such appealing peculiarities motivated us developing WMG resonators (WGMRs) for Cavity Enhanced Absorption Spectroscopy (CEAS) for chem-bio detection. Specifically, we designed and batch-fabricated microspheres and fiber tapers for resonances excitation. We successfully detected gases (N 2 and CO 2 ) in customized environmental chambers, and bio-organisms (Inf. A and E. Coli) with integrated microfluidic systems. Background calibration and environmental isolation were always accounted for in proving the performances.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2022

Laser-based ultrasound interrogation of surface and sub-surface features in advanced manufacturing materials

Abstract Structures formed by advanced manufacturing methods increasingly require nondestructive characterization to enable efficient fabrication and to ensure performance targets are met. This is especially important for aerospace, military, and high precision applications. Surface acoustic waves (SAW) generated by laser-based ultrasound can detect surface and sub-surface defects relevant for a broad range of advanced manufacturing processes, including laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). In particular, an all-optical SAW generation and detection configuration can effectively interrogate laser melt lines. Here we report on scattered acoustic energy from melt lines, voids, and surface features. Sub-surface voids are also characterized using X-ray Computed Tomography (CT). High resolution CT results are presented and compared with SAW measurements. Finite difference simulations inform experimental measurements and analysis.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2024

Modeling and Design Parameter Optimization to Improve the Sensitivity of a Bimorph Polysilicon-Based MEMS Sensor for Helium Detection

Helium is integral in several industries, including nuclear waste management and semiconductors. Thus, developing a sensing method for detecting helium is essential to ensure the proper operation of such facilities. Several approaches can be used for helium detection, including based on the high thermal conductivity of helium, which is several times higher than air. This work utilizes the high thermal conductivity of helium to design and analyze a bimorph MEMS sensor for helium sensing applications. COMSOL Multiphysics software (version 6.2) is used to carry out this investigation. The sensor is constructed from poly-silicon and SiO 2 materials with a trenched cantilever beam configuration. The sensor is electrically heated, and its morphed displacement depends on the surrounding gas’s composition, which decreases in the presence of helium. Several factors were investigated to probe their effect on the sensor’s sensitivity to helium, including the thickness of the poly-silicon layer, the configuration of the trench, and the thickness and location of SiO 2 layer. The simulations showed that the best performance, up to 2 ppm helium detection level, can be achieved with thinner beams and medium trench lengths.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗