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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
NASA NTRS1992

Thermal Control Surfaces Experiment (TCSE) materials analysis

Materials on the Thermal Control Surfaces Experiment (TCSE) underwent changes in their properties during the 5.8 years of exposure to the combined space environment. The analysis of these materials is continuing and current results are discussed. Some materials were significantly degraded such as silver Teflon, S13GLO, and Z302; while others such as Z93 and YB71 were stable. Time dependent flight data is provided, along with preflight and postflight measurements. Results are compared with other experiments, demonstrating the atomic oxygen (AO) ram effect. Atomic oxygen texturing of silver Teflon varies with incident angle. Even indirect exposure to atomic oxygen appears to be involved with surface texturing on the interior of the TCSE. Localized contamination occurred at discrete locations both inside and on exterior surfaces. Most of the visible deposits were the result of the classical photo-enhanced contamination deposition. The synergism of combined space environmental effects is demonstrated by the specific localization of contamination caused by photo-enhanced deposition versus AO removal. Optical degradation measurements of these contaminated areas, utilizing a new portable reflectometer, are presented.

Wilkes, Donald R.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Development of the materials analysis and particle probe for Proto-MPEX

The Prototype Material Plasma Exposure eXperiment (Proto-MPEX) is a linear plasma device being used in plasma source research and development (R&D) for the proposed MPEX. Once the R&D is completed, this device can also be used to perform plasma–material interaction studies. To perform these studies, a new materials analysis and particle probe (MAPP) has been constructed. The MAPP’s components are a sample holder and manipulator and a custom vacuum chamber with ports to facilitate surface chemistry diagnostics. The MAPP’s overall design enables rapid sample turnaround and in vacuo surface characterization. The surface analysis vacuum chamber has ports for x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermal desorption spectroscopy, back-scatter ion scattering spectroscopy, forward-scatter ion scattering spectroscopy, and direct recoil spectroscopy. The sample manipulator and holder is a Lesker/UHV Multi-Centre Analytical Stage, which is used to place the samples in the exposure region of the Proto-MPEX or the analysis position in the MAPP vacuum chamber. The sample holder has a heating capability of up to 1200 °C for heated exposure and for desorption studies. In this work, we present the MAPP’s design and the first tungsten sample exposure with ex situ analysis that shows a surface deposition layer on the exposed target, highlighting the need for additional in situ measurements on the Proto-MPEX.

Beers, C. J. (ORCID:0000000150985459)↗
NASA NTRS2009

Modern Material Analysis Instruments Add a New Dimension to Materials Characterization and Failure Analysis

Modern analytical tools can yield invaluable results during materials characterization and failure analysis. Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) provide significant analytical capabilities, including angstrom-level resolution. These systems can be equipped with a silicon drift detector (SDD) for very fast yet precise analytical mapping of phases, as well as electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) units to map grain orientations, chambers that admit large samples, variable pressure for wet samples, and quantitative analysis software to examine phases. Advanced solid-state electronics have also improved surface and bulk analysis instruments: Secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) can quantitatively determine and map light elements such as hydrogen, lithium, and boron - with their isotopes. Its high sensitivity detects impurities at parts per billion (ppb) levels. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) can determine oxidation states of elements, as well as identifying polymers and measuring film thicknesses on coated composites. This technique is also known as electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). Scanning Auger electron spectroscopy (SAM) combines surface sensitivity, spatial lateral resolution (10 nm), and depth profiling capabilities to describe elemental compositions of near and below surface regions down to the chemical state of an atom.

Panda, Binayak↗
NASA NTRS1972

Surveyor 3 material analysis plan, Appendix B

The Surveyor 3 material analysis plan is composed of a series of comprehensive charts of all science and engineering investigations reported. The plan progresses from left to right on each figure. Each test was designed to ensure that the subsequent tests would not be significantly affected by those that preceded it. Each box represents one or more tasks performed by the individual or firm named at the lower left. The upper-right corner shows the amount and type of material subjected to the test or tests listed within the box.

Nickle, N. L.↗
DOE OSTI2022

Demonstration of non-destructive and isotope-sensitive material analysis using a short-pulsed laser-driven epi-thermal neutron source

Neutrons are a valuable tool for non-destructive material investigation as their interaction cross sections with matter are isotope sensitive and can be used complementary to x-rays. So far, most neutron applications have been limited to large-scale facilities such as nuclear research reactors, spallation sources, and accelerator-driven neutron sources. Here we show the design and optimization of a laser-driven neutron source in the epi-thermal and thermal energy range, which is used for non-invasive material analysis. Neutron resonance spectroscopy, neutron radiography, and neutron resonance imaging with moderated neutrons are demonstrated for investigating samples in terms of isotope composition and thickness. The experimental results encourage applications in non-destructive and isotope-sensitive material analysis and pave the way for compact laser-driven neutron sources with high application potential.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS1987

Materials analysis by ultrasonics: Metals, ceramics, composites

Research results in analytical ultrasonics for characterizing structural materials from metals and ceramics to composites are presented. General topics covered by the conference included: status and advances in analytical ultrasonics for characterizing material microstructures and mechanical properties; status and prospects for ultrasonic measurements of microdamage, degradation, and underlying morphological factors; status and problems in precision measurements of frequency-dependent velocity and attenuation for materials analysis; procedures and requirements for automated, digital signal acquisition, processing, analysis, and interpretation; incentives for analytical ultrasonics in materials research and materials processing, testing, and inspection; and examples of progress in ultrasonics for interrelating microstructure, mechanical properties, and dynamic response.

Vary, Alex↗
DOE OSTI2020

An Overview of the Hybrid Illinois Device for Research and Applications Material Analysis Test-stand (HIDRA-MAT)

The Hybrid Illinois Device for Research and Applications (HIDRA) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a toroidal plasma device that enables fusion plasma-material interaction testing with both stellarator and tokamak plasmas. HIDRA’s long-pulse steady state stellarator plasmas provide a testbed for plasma facing component (PFC) plasma exposures. The HIDRA Material Analysis Test-stand (HIDRA-MAT) is a material characterization module attached to HIDRA that is being designed and fabricated to include thermal desorption spectroscopy and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy systems for in-vacuo PFC characterization. A specialized rotatable sample holder positions the sample for liquid metal droplet application from a liquid metal droplet injector on HIDRA-MAT. Early experiments look to investigate the effect liquid lithium has on porous tungsten samples’ retention of H, D, and He after plasma exposure. Preliminary results from a dual residual gas analyzer system show the ability to differentiate D2 and He in HIDRA-MAT. Finally, this work aims to advance the understanding of liquid metal PFCs and further the design and development of new fusion PFCs and technologies.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2024

SMATool: Strength of materials analysis toolkit

The study of the strength of materials is a cornerstone in material science and engineering, playing a critical role in shaping the progress and application of materials in diverse industrial sectors. The strength of a material is meticulously examined to understand the behavior of the material under different stress conditions and environments, thereby guiding material selection and structural design. Herein, we introduce the SMATool, a computational toolkit for the efficient calculation and analysis of material strength at both zero and finite temperatures for 3D, 2D, 1D, and tubular 2D-based nanostructures and nanotubes, as well as 1D nanoribbons. The toolkit is capable of calculating tensile, shear, ultimate, yield, and indentation (Vickers' hardness) strengths in various dimensions, as well as the energy storage capacity. We conducted several calculations both at zero and finite temperatures to validate the accuracy and reliability of the developed software. Here, the results show that the SMATool package provides accurate predictions that align with existing data on material strength. SMATool integrates seamlessly with widely used electronic structure codes like VASP and Quantum Espresso, providing a user-friendly interface catering to academic researchers and industry professionals.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2021

5 Inch Thick 2219-T87 Plate Low Ductility Investigation - Material Analysis on Broken 2219 Tensile Samples

2219-T87 material used on a LOX tank baffle support on Artemis-I showed unusually low fracture elongation. Recent material data indicated 5” thick 2219-T87 plate stock had very low ductility (<1%) in the short transverse direction at the half-thickness location. Metallurgical analysis performed to understand the root cause that led to the drastic reduction in tensile ductility. The PowerPoint report details the key findings from material analysis by optical and scanning electron microscopy.

aluminum alloy 2219↗
DOE OSTI2021

Upgrade of the Materials Analysis Particle Probe (MAPP-U) to decipher the impact of lithium-based surfaces on NSTX-U plasma behavior

Understanding the plasma wall interaction (PWI) remains a critical issue for the feasibility of thermonuclear magnetic fusion energy solutions. Key issues with PWI mechanisms in fusion tokamak reactors include: evolution of surface chemistry and its role on hydrogen retention. In particular how low-Z coatings such as lithium can impact the behavior of plasma at the edge and in the core. PMI (plasma-material interactions) are particularly important for strategies that involve low-recycling regimes and the use of lithium PFS (plasma-facing surfaces) to attain them, as in the case of NSTX-U. Recent reports have indicated the importance of access to the evolving plasma-facing surface during and in-between plasma discharges. Changes in surface chemistry and morphology due to ion bombardment and the difficulty of diagnosing plasma-facing surfaces, especially reactive surfaces, complicate the development of a predictive understanding of the wall and its interaction with the plasma. Consequently, this impairs the ability to design advanced PFC materials for future plasma-burning fusion reactors and appropriate PMI code validation. The Materials Analysis Particle Probe (MAPP) is an established and on-going PMI probe diagnostic system compatible with the highly chemically reactive system of lithium and boron coatings adopted by the NSTX-U research program. MAPP is the first PMI diagnostic to capture the surface physics and chemistry in-vacuo in a fusion tokamak system and correlate this data to controlled plasma shots. Currently MAPP captures this information at a fixed radial location at the NSTX-U outboard divertor region. The MAPP diagnostic has enabled understanding of the near-surface and surface chemistry of complex evolving lithiated and borated carbon-based PFC surfaces retention and transport of hydrogen. Coupled to atomistic simulations in collaboration with P. Krstic of Stony Brook U. MAPP has been very successful in achieving high-impact scientific research in its current grant period evidenced by two invited review articles and over 20 peer-reviewed manuscripts and over 40 contributed and invited presentations at both national and international conferences.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS2004

Materials Analysis: A Key to Unlocking the Mystery of the Columbia Tragedy

Materials analyses of key forensic evidence helped unlock the mystery of the loss of space shuttle Columbia that disintegrated February 1, 2003 while returning from a 16-day research mission. Following an intensive four-month recovery effort by federal, state, and local emergency management and law officials, Columbia debris was collected, catalogued, and reassembled at the Kennedy Space Center. Engineers and scientists from the Materials and Processes (M&P) team formed by NASA supported Columbia reconstruction efforts, provided factual data through analysis, and conducted experiments to validate the root cause of the accident. Fracture surfaces and thermal effects of selected airframe debris were assessed, and process flows for both nondestructive and destructive sampling and evaluation of debris were developed. The team also assessed left hand (LH) airframe components that were believed to be associated with a structural breach of Columbia. Analytical data collected by the M&P team showed that a significant thermal event occurred at the left wing leading edge in the proximity of LH reinforced carbon carbon (RCC) panels 8 and 9. The analysis also showed exposure to temperatures in excess of 1,649 C, which would severely degrade the support structure, tiles, and RCC panel materials. The integrated failure analysis of wing leading edge debris and deposits strongly supported the hypothesis that a breach occurred at LH RCC panel 8.

Mayeaux, Brian M.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Editorial: Applications of spectroscopy and chemometrics in nuclear materials analysis

Optical analysis techniques, including spectroscopy and image analysis, have many advantages when applied to the study of nuclear materials. They require small sample sizes, can be performed remotely, and can be proceduralized through consistent practice. Most importantly, they provide a wealth of information by generating multivariate data. For example, ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared absorbance spectroscopy of actinides in aqueous and organic solutions is dependent on the oxidation state, anionic complexation, and temperature. These variables are important for solution-based separation processes, and sensitivity to these factors, combined with online monitoring, can drive the efficiency and control of these processes. The morphology and chemical composition of actinide particles can also provide a vital clue to the mechanisms by which the particles were formed, providing forensic information on the origins of the particles.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗
NASA NTRS1979

Utilization of nuclear methods for materials analysis and the determination of concentration gradients

The various types of nuclear chemical analysis methods are discussed. The possibilities of analysis through activation and direct observation of nuclear reactions are described. Such methods make it possible to analyze trace elements and impurities with selectivity, accuracy, and a high degree of sensitivity. Such methods are used in measuring major elements present in materials which are available for analysis only in small quantities. These methods are well suited to superficial analyses and to determination of concentration gradients; provided the nature and energy of the incident particles are chosen judiciously. Typical examples of steels, pure iron and refractory metals are illustrated.

Darras, R.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Material Analysis and Identification

KeyMaster Technologies, Inc., develops and markets specialized, hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) instruments and unique tagging technology used to identify and authenticate materials or processes. NASA first met with this Kennewick, Washington-based company as the Agency began seeking companies to develop a hand-held instrument that would detect data matrix symbols on parts covered by paint and other coatings. Since the Federal Aviation Administration was also searching for methods to detect and eliminate the use of unapproved parts, it recommended that NASA and KeyMaster work together to develop a technology that would benefit both agencies.

Source record↗
DOE OSTI2022

Delivering real-time multi-modal materials analysis with enterprise beamlines

Contemporary advancements in low-cost automation and computation, reduced barrier to entry in developing artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), and increased ability to represent complex materials in digital form have led to a number of accelerated materials discovery platforms. However, many of these approaches operate with completely rigid vertical integration in an isolated feedback loop using limited modalities. In order to make a substantial impact on discovering new energy materials, AI-driven experiments must operate collaboratively with each other and researchers and over multiple measurement modalities. Herein, we describe the potential for an “internet of things” approach to self-driving enterprise beamlines that merges core information technologies, robotics, and multi-modal AI. The approach will enable full utility of light sources, collaborate effectively with other remote materials acceleration platforms, and help stride toward the world’s energy future.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗