SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Interpenetrated structure”

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.

SourceResearch connectionFrom yearThrough year

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 19 records

All sources NASA NTRS DOE OSTI

DOE OSTI2024

Interpenetrated Structures for Enhancing Ion Diffusion Kinetics in Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices

The architectural design of electrodes offers new opportunities for next-generation electrochemical energy storage devices (EESDs) by increasing surface area, thickness, and active materials mass loading while maintaining good ion diffusion through optimized electrode tortuosity. However, conventional thick electrodes increase ion diffusion length and cause larger ion concentration gradients, limiting reaction kinetics. We demonstrate a strategy for building interpenetrated structures that shortens ion diffusion length and reduces ion concentration inhomogeneity. This free-standing device structure also avoids short-circuiting without needing a separator. The feature size and number of interpenetrated units can be adjusted during printing to balance surface area and ion diffusion. Starting with a 3D-printed interpenetrated polymer substrate, we metallize it to make it conductive. This substrate has two individually addressable electrodes, allowing selective electrodeposition of energy storage materials. Using a Zn//MnO 2 battery as a model system, the interpenetrated device outperforms conventional separate electrode configurations, improving volumetric energy density by 221% and exhibiting a higher capacity retention rate of 49% compared to 35% at temperatures from 20 to 0 °C. Our study introduces a new EESD architecture applicable to Li-ion, Na-ion batteries, supercapacitors, etc.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗

DOE OSTI2025

Creation of Self-Semi-Interpenetrating Network Structures in PIM-1 Membranes for Enhanced Physical Aging Resistance

A series of self-semi-interpenetrating network (ssIPN) thin films based on PIM-1 structure were developed by end-cross-linking telechelic PIM-1 oligomers end-capped with curable carboxylic acid groups to form model networks, which are penetrated by linear high-molecular-weight PIM-1 chains. ssIPN films with systematically varied network content ranging from 10 to 30 wt % were comprehensively examined on their microstructure and gas permeation properties. Fresh PIM-1 ssIPN films exhibited gas separation performances close to those of as-cast linear PIM-1, where the films closely followed the upper bound trade-off line, gaining as much selectivity as they lose gas permeability as the network content increases. This indicates that gas permeability is largely preserved despite cross-linking. Wide-angle X-ray scattering supported this observation, with peaks shifting toward lower d-spacing as oligomer content increased, suggesting tighter chain packing with higher cross-linkable oligomer loading. In physical aging studies over two months, all ssIPN films outperform linear PIM-1 for H 2 /CH 4 and O 2 /N 2 separations. Notably, the PIM-1 ssIPN with 10 wt % network content showed the best physical aging resistance, with negligible permeability loss even after one month. Finally, these findings highlight a promising macromolecular strategy for enhancing the physical aging resistance of microporous polymer membranes for gas separation.

PIM-1↗

DOE OSTI2020

Highly sensitive and selective determination of p-nitrophenol at an interpenetrating networks structure of self-assembled rod-like lanthanum hydroxide-oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposite

Not Available

Yuan, Meng-Meng↗

DOE OSTI2021

Additively manufactured locally resonant interpenetrating lattice structure

A method and apparatus for attenuating acoustic waves is provided. A lattice is formed with a plurality of support struts. A plurality of resonating struts are formed extending between the support struts, wherein the resonating struts are configured to attenuate acoustic waves within a predetermined range of frequencies while allowing acoustic waves outside the predetermined range of frequencies to pass through the resonant structure unattenuated. The resonant structure is interposed between two bodies to isolate one body from acoustic waves from the other body over the predetermined range of frequencies.

Hammetter, Chris↗

DOE OSTI2022

Crystal Prediction and Design of Tunable Light Emission in BTB–Based Metal–Organic Frameworks

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have recently been shown to exhibit unique mechanisms of luminescence based on charge transfer between structural units in the framework. These MOFs have the potential to be structural tuned for targeted emission with little or no metal participation. Here a computationally led, material design and synthesis methodology is presented that elucidates the mechanisms of light emission in interpenetrated structures comprised of metal centers (M = In, Ga, InGa, InEu) and BTB (1,3,5-Tris(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene) linkers, forming unique luminescent M-BTB MOF frameworks. Gas phase and periodic electronic structure calculations indicate that the intensity of the emission and the wavelength are overwhelmingly controlled by a combination of the number of interacting stacked linkers and their interatomic spacings, respectively. In the MOF, the ionic radii of the metal centers primarily control the expansion or shrinkage of the linker stacking distances. Experimentally, multiple M-BTB-based MOFs are synthesized and their photoluminescence was tested. Experiments validated the modeling by confirming that shifts in the crystal structure result in variations in light emission. Through this material design method, the mechanisms of tuning luminescence properties in interpenetrated M-BTB MOFs have been identified and applied to the design of MOFs with specific wavelength emission based on their structure.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2022

High‐Capacity Splitting of Mono‐ and Dibranched Hexane Isomers by a Robust Zinc‐Based Metal–Organic Framework

Abstract High‐efficiency separation of C 6 alkanes, particularly the mono‐ and dibranched isomers by using porous solids, is of paramount significance in the petrochemical industry and, remains a daunting challenge. In this work, we report the complete separation of linear/monobranched hexanes from their dibranched isomers through selective size‐exclusion by a microporous MOF, Zn‐tcpt (H 3 tcpt=2,4,6‐tris(4‐carboxyphenoxy)‐1,3,5‐triazine), with a two‐fold interpenetrated structure of hms nets. Importantly, its adsorption capacity and selectivity are notably higher than those of the previously reported adsorbents that can split mono‐ and dibranched alkane isomers. Dynamic breakthrough measurements verify the excellent separation of C 6 alkane isomers by Zn‐tcpt, and the size‐exclusion based separation mechanism has been confirmed by ab initio materials modeling. The high‐efficiency separation of alkane isomers by Zn‐tcpt can be attributed to its optimal pore dimensions as well as high porosity.

Yu, Liang↗

DOE OSTI2022

High–Capacity Splitting of Mono– and Dibranched Hexane Isomers by a Robust Zinc–Based Metal–Organic Framework

High-efficiency separation of C 6 alkanes, particularly the mono- and dibranched isomers by using porous solids, is of paramount significance in the petrochemical industry and, remains a daunting challenge. In this work, we report the complete separation of linear/monobranched hexanes from their dibranched isomers through selective size-exclusion by a microporous MOF, Zn-tcpt (H3tcpt=2,4,6-tris(4-carboxyphenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine), with a two-fold interpenetrated structure of hms nets. Importantly, its adsorption capacity and selectivity are notably higher than those of the previously reported adsorbents that can split mono- and dibranched alkane isomers. Dynamic breakthrough measurements verify the excellent separation of C 6 alkane isomers by Zn-tcpt, and the size-exclusion based separation mechanism has been confirmed by ab initio materials modeling. Furthermore, the high-efficiency separation of alkane isomers by Zn-tcpt can be attributed to its optimal pore dimensions as well as high porosity.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

DOE OSTI2020

Alkyl chain engineering of chlorinated acceptors for elevated solar conversion

Abstract not provided

Mo, Daize↗

NASA NTRS2000

Directionally Solidified Ceramics Produced

Produced Multiphase, interpenetrating structures are an alternative route to obtaining structural ceramic materials with adequate strength, toughness, and stability for high-temperature aerospace applications. The eutectic architecture, a continuous-reinforcing phase within a higher volume phase or matrix, can be described as a naturally occurring, in situ composite. The phases of a eutectic are thermodynamically compatible at high homologous temperatures. Strong and stable materials have been produced. Toughness, however, remains a technical obstacle. The potential for producing materials with enhanced toughness along with adequate strength and stability was demonstrated using the laser-heated float zone (LHFZ) growth method at the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field. LHFZ growth at Glenn provides a means to efficiently produce and record the underlying growth phenomena associated with two-phase structures. To initiate directional solidification, a seed of single-crystal sapphire (<0001> direction) was lowered onto the molten liquid until wetting occurred and then withdrawn at a constant rate. Neither the crystal nor the source rod was rotated. The materials produced were tested mechanically in tension, and the resulting microstructure was examined with a scanning electron microscope. Both the inherent properties of the constituent phases and the properties of the interface between them affect the mechanical behavior and the fracture surfaces. The following scanning electron micrographs show the microstructures of two different materials that were tested to failure in tension. In the left micrograph, the flat fracture surface is typical of a material that is strong but has low toughness. In the right micrograph, the crack is effectively deflected at the interface between the two phases, achieving higher toughness at moderately lower strength levels. Conducting mechanical tests to determine the high temperature properties of these materials is the next step in determining their eventual suitability.

Farmer, Serene C.↗

DOE OSTI2023

Structural metamaterials comprising interpenetrating lattices

Multi-body interpenetrating lattices comprise two or more lattices that interlace or interpenetrate through the same volume without any direct physical connection to each other, wherein energy transfer is controlled by surface interactions. As a result, multifunctional or composite-like responses can be achieved by additive manufacturing of the interpenetrating lattices, even with only a single print material, with programmable interface-dominated properties. As a result, the interpenetrating lattices can have unique mechanical properties, including improved toughness, multi-stable/negative stiffness, and electromechanical coupling.

Boyce, Brad↗

DOE OSTI2025

Interface Nucleus Templating of Modular Intermetallic Morphologies: Chemical Pressure Complementarity, Columnar Domains, and Complex Disorder in Y 13 Ag 42.7 Zn 29.7

One element of the diversity of intermetallic phases is the formation of complex structures from the assembly of fragments of simpler structures. Recently, we devised the Interface Nuclear Approach as a model for understanding such modular arrangements, in which the intergrowth of different structures is driven by chemical pressure (CP) relief at shared motifs at the domain interfaces, referred to as interface nuclei. In this Article, we present the synthesis, crystal structure, and CP analysis of a new compound that expands on this theme, Y 13 Ag 42.7 Zn 29.7 . Its hexagonal structure contains interpenetrating domains based on the CaPd 5+x and EuMg 5 types. The CaPd 5+x -based regions are reminiscent of the lamellar intergrowth structures previously observed in the Y−Ag−Zn system. In Y 13 Ag 42.7 Zn 29.7 , however, the domains have a different morphology, forming columns that adopt a hexagonal rod-packing. The geometrical features of the remaining spaces are assigned, using the program GrowDomain, to the cores of trigonal units of the EuMg 5 type, while layers of disordered atoms occur at heights along z where the parent structures are mismatched. At the CaPd 5+x -type/EuMg 5 -type interfaces, simple interface nucleus motifs with strong CP-complementarity can be identified, while their distribution within the parent structures supports the notion of templated architectures in modular intermetallics.

Chemical structure↗

DOE OSTI2023

Nickel Isonicotinate Framework with Optimal Pore Structure for Complete Discrimination of Hexane Isomers

Efficient separation of physicochemically similar alkanes is of vital importance. Adsorptive separation utilizing porous materials such as metal–organic frameworks with tunable pore structure and surface functionality represents an energy-efficient technology. In this study, we demonstrate successful separation of alkanes with varying degree of branching using a microporous nickel isonicotinate framework, Ni(4-PyC) 2 . Its 2-fold interpenetrated diamondoid structure with well-suited pore size enables selective adsorption of linear and monobranched hexane isomers, while excluding dibranched isomer. Breakthrough experiments validated its capability to completely discriminate all three hexane isomers. Ab initio calculations combined with in situ infrared spectroscopic analysis unveiled the nature of host–guest interactions and differences in the binding energies and diffusion barriers among the isomers. Furthermore, having well-balanced adsorption uptakes (146 and 79 mg g –1 of nHEX and 3MP), high nHEX/DMB uptake ratio (12.2) and fast kinetics, Ni(4-PyC) 2 stands out as a promising adsorbent for complete separation of hexane isomers under ambient conditions.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

DOE OSTI2026

Random 3D Interpenetrating Electrode Design for Energy Storage Applications

We introduce the concept of random interpenetrating electrode structures, inspired by spinodal decomposition, as a transformative approach for energy storage applications. While ordered architectures, such as double gyroids and Kelvin cell structures, have long been favored for their structural uniformity and surface area utilization, we demonstrate that random structures offer distinct advantages including shorter diffusion pathways, higher packing density, and enhanced reaction kinetics, particularly at low temperatures. Using a combination of computational and electrochemical analysis, we show that random architecture outperforms their ordered counterparts in scenarios where diffusion dominates. This work represents the first systematic exploration of random structures in energy storage, highlighting their potential to overcome limitations of traditional designs. However, challenges such as structural reproducibility and scalability remain, necessitating further investigation into fabrication techniques and material selection. By establishing a framework to optimize random electrode architectures, we provide critical insights into the interplay between geometry, diffusion, and reaction kinetics. This study not only introduces a new design principle for 3D electrodes but also opens pathways for next-generation energy storage systems that demand both high performance and adaptability to a range of operating conditions.

Materials science↗

DOE OSTI2026

Ultra-thick three-dimensional interpenetrating graphene electrode architectures for high volumetric density energy storage

For electrochemical energy storage, increasing the electrode thickness is an effective approach to achieving higher energy density from a given material. However, this often compromises ion transport, leading to diminished performance. Here, in this study, we present a novel platform for fabricating complex 3D interpenetrating electrode structures via photo-polymerization 3D printing, integrated with computational structural optimization for energy storage. The platform employs an acrylate resin system infused with graphene oxide (GO), enabling high-fidelity printing of optimized porous structures and facilitating efficient electron and ion transport in ultra-thick electrodes. The optimized 3D layouts substantially enhance energy and power densities compared to conventional configurations, ensuring superior material utilization and minimal ohmic losses. Supercapacitors fabricated using this approach achieved an exceptional energy density of 4.7 Wh L−1 at a power density of 1689.0 W L−1, surpassing traditional designs. This work underscores the transformative role of structural optimization in advancing electrochemical performance and establishes a versatile pathway for developing next-generation energy storage systems with exceptional efficiency and functionality.

Wang, Zhen [University of California, Berkeley, CA↗

NASA NTRS2003

Functionally Graded Nanophase Beryllium/Carbon Composites

Beryllium, beryllium alloys, beryllium carbide, and carbon are the ingredients of a class of nanophase Be/Be2C/C composite materials that can be formulated and functionally graded to suit a variety of applications. In a typical case, such a composite consists of a first layer of either pure beryllium or a beryllium alloy, a second layer of B2C, and a third layer of nanophase sintered carbon derived from fullerenes and nanotubes. The three layers are interconnected through interpenetrating spongelike structures. These Be/Be2C/C composite materials are similar to Co/WC/diamond functionally graded composite materials, except that (1) W and Co are replaced by Be and alloys thereof and (2) diamond is replaced by sintered carbon derived from fullerenes and nanotubes. (Optionally, one could form a Be/Be2C/diamond composite.) Because Be is lighter than W and Co, the present Be/Be2C/C composites weigh less than do the corresponding Co/WC/diamond composites. The nanophase carbon is almost as hard as diamond. WC/Co is the toughest material. It is widely used for drilling, digging, and machining. However, the fact that W is a heavy element (that is, has high atomic mass and mass density) makes W unattractive for applications in which weight is a severe disadvantage. Be is the lightest tough element, but its toughness is less than that of WC/Co alloy. Be strengthened by nanophase carbon is much tougher than pure or alloy Be. The nanophase carbon has an unsurpassed strength-to-weight ratio. The Be/Be2C/C composite materials are especially attractive for terrestrial and aerospace applications in which there are requirements for light weight along with the high strength and toughness of the denser Co/WC/diamond materials. These materials could be incorporated into diverse components, including cutting tools, bearings, rocket nozzles, and shields. Moreover, because Be and C are effective as neutron moderators, Be/Be2C/C composites could be attractive for some nuclear applications.

Voronov, Oleg A.↗

NASA NTRS2003

Functionally Graded Nanophase Beryllium/Carbon Composites

Choi, Michael K.↗

DOE OSTI2022

Systems and methods for electrical energy storage

The present disclosure relates to an electrical energy storage apparatus which forms an interpenetrating, three dimensional structure. The structure may have a first non-planar channel filled with an anode material to form an anode, and a second non-planar channel adjacent the first non-planar channel filled with a cathode material to form a cathode. A third non-planar channel may be formed adjacent the first and second non-planar channels and filled with an electrolyte. The first, second and third channels are formed so as to be interpenetrating and form a spatially dense, three dimensional structure. A first current collector is in communication with the first non-planar channel and forms a first electrode, while a second current collector is in communication with the second non-planar channel and forms a second electrode. A separator layers separates the current collectors.

Duoss, Eric B.↗

DOE OSTI2026

Restoring Symmetry and Enhancing Exchange via Chiral Molecular-Magnetic Hexagons

Modified behaviors of molecules, designed for device or energy applications, can occur due to lattice-molecule incompatibilities in point-group symmetries (PGS), long-range interactions between neighboring molecules, or latticemolecule charge transfer. Such sensitivities are prerequisite for the use of quantum molecules as devices, but removing certain broken symmetries is desirable from the standpoint of simplifying their behaviors. Here, we demonstrate symmetry restoration to molecular-magnetic lattices and show that it leads to strengthened exchange-coupling due to dipolar electrostatic interactions between neighboring molecules and due to manifestations of an earlier identification of a spin-sensitive slightly mobile electron by Hooshmand et al. Starting with a broken symmetry molecular magnet of current interest, we demonstrate a more robust structure composed of six molecular magnets on a h-BN-like surface. The broken point-group symmetry is healed by constructing interpenetrating equilateral triangular structures that are appropriately ratcheted to preserve three-fold rotational symmetry and inversion symmetry.

Pederson, Mark R.↗