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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 NTRS1985

Optical studies of a binary miscibility gap system

Model transparent fluids are being studied to develop a better understanding of phase separation processes in binary miscibility-gap metal alloys. The model selected for the reported work is diethylene glycol-ethyl salicylate. This system is well characterized with respect to its phase diagram, density, surface and interfacial tensions, viscosity, and other pertinent physical properties. Minority phase growth, coalescence, and droplet motions are observed using holographic microscopy which is capable of recording particle densities up to 10 to the 7th particles/cu cm and is able to resolve particles as small as 2 to 3 microns in diameter throughout the entire volume of the test cell. Sequential holograms allow determination of droplet size distribution changes throughout the total volume with respect to time and temperature. This allows a direct method for testing various theories of droplet growth and ripening phenomena.

Witherow, W. K.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Influence of Melt Convection on Solid-Liquid Interface Under Terrestrial and Reduced Gravity Environments

Solidification and crystal growth processes involve thermal and solutal gradients within a molten phase. In the presence of gravity, such gradients result in convective flows which interact with diffusion fields at the solid-liquid interface. Dendritic growth kinetics was studied in transparent model systems which freeze similarily to most metals. Succinonitrile shows a strong influence of convection at supercoolings below about 1K. Fluid flows adjacent to solid-liquid interfaces and the behavior of shear flows in vertical annular geometries are studied. Novel low-frequency eigenstates were discovered and classified as coupled modes, for their involvement with interfacial deformation coupled to the fluid flow, and are unknown in systems without deformable interfaces. The dependence of coupled convection modes on interfacial geometry, gravity, fluid properties, and transformation characteristics studied for several annual flow arrangements with nominally pure solid-liquid systems.

Glicksman, M. E.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Preparation for microgravity - The role of the Microgravity Material Science Laboratory

Experiments at the NASA Lewis Research Center's Microgravity Material Science Laboratory using physical and mathematical models to delineate the effects of gravity on processes of scientific and commercial interest are discussed. Where possible, transparent model systems are used to visually track convection, settling, crystal growth, phase separation, agglomeration, vapor transport, diffusive flow, and polymer reactions. Materials studied include metals, alloys, salts, glasses, ceramics, and polymers. Specific technologies discussed include the General Purpose furnace used in the study of metals and crystal growth, the isothermal dendrite growth apparatus, the electromagnetic levitator/instrumented drop tube, the high temperature directional solidification furnace, the ceramics and polymer laboratories and the center's computing facilities.

Johnston, J. Christopher↗
NASA NTRS1982

Optical Studies of model binary miscibility gap system

In order to develop a better understanding of separation processes in binary miscibility gap metal alloys, model transparent fluid systems were studied. The system selected was diethylene glycol-ethyl salicylate which has convenient working temperatures (288 to 350 K), low toxicity, and is relatively easy to purify. The system is well characterized with respect to its phase diagram, density, surface and interfacial tensions, viscosity and other pertinent physical properties. Studies of migration of the dispersed phase in a thermal gradient were performed using conventional photomicroscopy. Velocities of the droplets of the dispersed phase were measured and compared to calculated rates which included both Stokes and thermal components. A holographic microscopy system was used to study growth, coalescence, and particle motions. Sequential holograms allowed determination of particle size distribution changes with respect to time and temperature. Holographic microscopy is capable of recording particle densities up to 10 to the 7th power particles/cu cm and is able to resolve particles of the order of 2 to 3 microns in diameter throughout the entire volume of the test cell. The reconstructed hologram produces a wavefront that is identical to the original wavefront as it existed when the hologram was made. The reconstructed wavefront is analyzed using a variety of conventional optical methods.

Lacy, L. L.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Leveraging Open-Source Tools for Collaborative Macro-energy System Modeling Efforts

The authors are founding team members of a new effort to develop an Open Energy Outlook for the United States. The effort aims to apply best practices of policy-focused energy system modeling, ensure transparency, build a networked community, and work toward a common purpose: examining possible US energy system futures to inform energy and climate policy efforts. Individual author biographies can be found on the project website: https://openenergyoutlook.org/.

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗
NASA NTRS2026

Controlled Parametric Forcing During Directional Solidification of a Bulk Organic Alloy Under Microgravity

The response of dendritic microstructures to step-like pulling velocity conditions is investigated using microgravity directional solidification experiments conducted on DECLIC-DSI combined with phase-field simulations. Under a constant pulling velocity of 1.5 µm/s, the evolution toward steady-state growth is characterized in terms of primary spacing, dendrite drift, and tip dynamics. For the first time, side-view observations enabled direct measurement of tip radius and sidebranching frequency. When step-like oscillations of the pulling velocity are imposed, the dendritic array exhibits a strongly period-dependent response: short periods lead to rapid tip adaptation, whereas longer periods induce a phase lag between tip position and morphology, resulting in progressive tip flattening and, above a critical period, interface destabilization and dendrite splitting. Quantitative phase-field simulations, including a realistic thermal field and stochastic noise, reproduce the experimental observations and provide insight into the governing mechanisms, highlighting the role of characteristic relaxation times, sequence-dependent effects, and the irreversible reorganization of the microstructure following splitting.

Microgravity↗
NASA NTRS1983

Determination of Systems Suitable for Study as Monotectic Binary Metallic Alloy Solidification Models

Succinonitrile-water and diethylene glycol-ethyl salicylate are two transparent systems which have been studied as monotectic binary metallic alloy solidification models. Being transparent, these systems allow for the direct observations of phase transformations and solidification reactions. The objective was to develop a screening technique to find systems of interest and then experimentally measure those systems. The succinonitrile-water system was used to check the procedures. To simulate the phase diagram of the system, two computer programs which determine solid-liquid and liquid-liquid equilibria were obtained. These programs use the UNIFAC method to determine activity coefficients and together with several other programs were used to predict the phase diagram. An experimental apparatus was developed and the succinonitrile-water phase diagram measured. The diagram was compared to both the simulation and literature data. Substantial differences were found in the comparisons which serve to demonstrate the need for this procedure.

Smith, J. E., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Studies of Model Immiscible Systems

The objectives are to use model transparent monotectics to obtain fundamental information applicable to two-phase systems in general, to apply this understanding to materials of interest in the Microgravity Science and Applications program, and to interpret results of flight experimental involving monotectic alloys. A number of model immiscible systems are in use to study various aspects of two-phase behavior within the miscibility gap and during solidification. Particle growth, coalescence and particle motions are under investigation using a holographic microscopy system. The system is capable of working with particle densities up to 10 to the 7th power particles/cubic centimeters through a 100 micron depth and can resolve particles of the order of 2 to 3 micron in diameter throughout the entire cell volume. Particle size, distribution changes with respect to time and temperature are observable from sequential holograms. Initial experiments using diethylene glycol/ethyl salicylate (DEG/ES) have demonstrated the usefulness of the technique. The thermal system controls temperature to at least plus or minus 0.001 K over the course of an experiment. A time-lapse film, made from holograms, of a succinonitrile/water solution shows particle size and number distribution changes with time under isothermal conditions. The observations are consistent with Ostwald ripening theory.

Frazier, D. O.↗
DOE OSTI2020

A Model Tree Generator (MTG) Framework for Simulating Hydrologic Systems: Application to Reservoir Routing

Data-driven algorithms have been widely used as effective tools to mimic hydrologic systems. Unlike black-box models, decision tree algorithms offer transparent representations of systems and reveal useful information about the underlying process. A popular class of decision tree models is model tree (MT), which is designed for predicting continuous variables. Most MT algorithms employ an exhaustive search mechanism and a pre-defined splitting criterion to generate a piecewise linear model. However, this approach is computationally intensive, and the selection of the splitting criterion can significantly affect the performance of the generated model. These drawbacks can limit the application of MTs to large datasets. To overcome these shortcomings, a new flexible Model Tree Generator (MTG) framework is introduced here. MTG is equipped with several modules to provide a flexible, efficient, and effective tool for generating MTs. The application of the algorithm is demonstrated through simulation of controlled discharge from several reservoirs across the Contiguous United States (CONUS).

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2021

Numerical modeling of a proton spin-flipping system in the spin transparency mode at an integer spin resonance in JINR's Nuclotron

In this paper we propose a lattice insertion for the Nuclotron ring called a “spin navigator” that can adjust any direction of the proton polarization in the orbital plane using weak solenoids. The polarization control is realized in the spin transparency mode at the energy of 108 MeV, which corresponds to the integer spin resonance γ G = 2. The requirements on the navigator solenoid fields are specified considering the criteria for stability of the spin motion during any manipulation of the polarization direction in an experiment. Additionally, this paper presents the results of numerical modeling of the proton spin dynamics in the Nuclotron ring operated in the spin transparency mode. The verified spin navigator is aimed at an experimental study of a spin-flipping system using the Nuclotron ring. The results are relevant to the NICA (JINR), EIC (BNL) and COSY (FZJ) facilities where the spin transparency mode can be applied for polarization control.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2024

Exploring the role of judgement and shared situation awareness when working with AI recommender systems

Abstract AI-advised Decision Making is a form of human-autonomy teaming in which an AI recommender system suggests a solution to a human operator, who is responsible for the final decision. This work seeks to examine the importance of judgement and shared situation awareness between humans and automated agents when interacting together in the form of a recommender systems. We propose manipulating both human judgement and shared situation awareness by providing the human decision maker with relevant information that the automated agent (AI), in the form of a recommender system, uses to generate possible courses of action. This paper presents the results of a two-phase between-subjects study in which participants and a recommender system jointly make a high-stakes decision. We varied the amount of relevant information the participant had, the assessment technique of the proposed solution, and the reliability of the recommender system. Findings indicate that this technique of supporting the human’s judgement and establishing a shared situation awareness is effective in (1) boosting the human decision maker’s situation awareness and task performance, (2) calibrating their trust in AI teammates, and (3) reducing overreliance on an AI partner. Additionally, participants were able to pinpoint the limitations and boundaries of the AI partner’s capabilities. They were able to discern situations where the AI’s recommendations could be trusted versus instances when they should not rely on the AI’s advice. This work proposes and validates a way to provide model-agnostic transparency into recommender systems that can support the human decision maker and lead to improved team performance.

Srivastava, Divya↗
NASA NTRS1985

Experimental determination of systems suitable for study as monotectic binary metallic alloy solidification models

Transparent binary metallic alloy solidification models are important in attempts to understand the processes causing liquid-liquid and solid-liquid phase transformations in metallic alloy systems. These models permit visual observation of the phase transformation and the processes proceding solidification. The number of these transparent monotectic binary models needs to be expanded to distinguish between the unique and general phenomena observed. The expansion of the number of accurately determined monotectic phase diagrams of model systems, and contribution to a data base for eventual use with UNIFAC group contribution methods is examined.

Smith, J. E., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Two-color holography concept (T-CHI)

The Material Processing in the Space Program of NASA-MSFC was active in developing numerous optical techniques for the characterization of fluids in the vicinity of various materials during crystallization and/or solidification. Two-color holographic interferometry demonstrates that temperature and concentration separation in transparent (T-CHI) model systems is possible. The experiments were performed for particular (succinonitrile) systems. Several solutions are possible in Microgravity Sciences and Applications (MSA) experiments on future Shuttle missions. The theory of the T-CHI concept is evaluated. Although particular cases are used for explanations, the concepts developed will be universal. A breadboard system design is also presented for ultimate fabrication and testing of theoretical findings. New developments in holography involving optical fibers and diode lasers are also incorporated.

Vikram, C. S.↗
DOE OSTI2026

Chemical Recommender System: Replacement Suggestions for Small Molecules

The Chemical Recommender System (CRS) is an open-source, high-performance toolkit that enables real-time similarity searches across the complete PubChem database (over 50 million molecules) using commodity hardware. The CRS addresses critical limitations in existing chemical informatics platforms through a novel vector database infrastructure, extensible model integration capabilities, and complete algorithmic transparency. The system implements a vector database deployment with partitioned indexing that achieves a ~60x speedup over traditional approaches. A containerized model integration framework allows researchers to seamlessly incorporate custom predictive models into the full-scale search and scoring pipeline, while complete configurability of search parameters, filtering logic, and scoring functions provides capabilities not available in existing black-box solutions. Beyond structural similarity, the CRS integrates OPERA QSAR models for thermophysical and toxicity predictions, RDKit synthetic accessibility scoring, and user-defined models to compute weighted final replacement scores. The complete system is accessible through an interactive web application supporting real-time progress monitoring, post-processing score re-weighting, automated PDF reporting, and batch processing capabilities.

Nair, Parthiv Anand [Sandia National Laboratories ↗
NASA NTRS1991

Flow visualization studies of the internal flow characteristics in a simulated mixed flow vectored thrust ASTOVL engine configuration

The characteristics of internal flowfields in a Mixed Flow Vectored Thrust (MFVT) propulsion system for Short Take Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) fighter aircraft were investigated using flow visualization techniques. A highly parametric 14 percent scale transparent model was used to simulate the MFVT propulsion system. The working medium was water. The mixing between the fan and core flow was studied using flow visualization for a variety of geometrical and flow parameters including three bypass ratio variations. The flow visualization technique involves the use of laser light sheet for illumination and fluorescent dye or air bubbles as tracers. Results indicate the existence of a strong vortex flowfield in the hover mode of operation that is responsible for good mixing between the fan and core flows.

Saripalli, K. R.↗
DOE OSTI2022

System Modeling Frameworks for Wind Turbines and Plants: Review and Requirements Specifications

System modeling frameworks for wind turbines and plants are used by research groups and industry to design wind energy systems that take into account key trade-offs across performance, cost, and reliability at both the turbine and plant level. The frameworks are exercised using a variety of multi-disciplinary design, analysis and optimization (MDAO) methods. To improve inter-operability and foster collaboration, this report proposes a classification system for the frameworks along dimensions of model fidelity and scope. The classification system is first motivated with reviews the state-of-the-art in the development of software frameworks for integrated wind turbine and plant simulation. Within each major wind turbine and power plant subsystem, a matrix is developed for the disciplines used and the fidelity levels with which each discipline can be modeled. The existing frameworks are then classified according to the matrix. Next, an ontology is proposed that will allow for standardizing how data is transferred between the most common discipline-fidelity combinations used in the frameworks. A common representation of data creates the ability to 1) share system descriptions and analysis results, supporting more transparent benchmarks and comparison, and 2) integrate models together into workflows within and across organizations for improving the efficiency and performance of wind turbine and power plant design processes. Ultimately, this integration leads to better overall wind energy system designs with high performance and low costs.

17 WIND ENERGY↗
NASA NTRS2005

Space Laboratory on a Table Top: A Next Generative ECLSS design and diagnostic tool

This paper describes the development plan for a comprehensive research and diagnostic tool for aspects of advanced life support systems in space-based laboratories. Specifically it aims to build a high fidelity tabletop model that can be used for the purpose of risk mitigation, failure mode analysis, contamination tracking, and testing reliability. We envision a comprehensive approach involving experimental work coupled with numerical simulation to develop this diagnostic tool. It envisions a 10% scale transparent model of a space platform such as the International Space Station that operates with water or a specific matched index of refraction liquid as the working fluid. This allows the scaling of a 10 ft x 10 ft x 10 ft room with air flow to 1 ft x 1 ft x 1 ft tabletop model with water/liquid flow. Dynamic similitude for this length scale dictates model velocities to be 67% of full-scale and thereby the time scale of the model to represent 15% of the full- scale system; meaning identical processes in the model are completed in 15% of the full- scale-time. The use of an index matching fluid (fluid that matches the refractive index of cast acrylic, the model material) allows making the entire model (with complex internal geometry) transparent and hence conducive to non-intrusive optical diagnostics. So using such a system one can test environment control parameters such as core flows (axial flows), cross flows (from registers and diffusers), potential problem areas such as flow short circuits, inadequate oxygen content, build up of other gases beyond desirable levels, test mixing processes within the system at local nodes or compartments and assess the overall system performance. The system allows quantitative measurements of contaminants introduced in the system and allows testing and optimizing the tracking process and removal of contaminants. The envisaged system will be modular and hence flexible for quick configuration change and subsequent testing. The data and inferences from the tests will allow for improvements in the development and design of next generation life support systems and configurations. Preliminary experimental and modeling work in this area will be presented. This involves testing of a single inlet-exit model with detailed 3-D flow visualization and quantitative diagnostics and computational modeling of the system.

Ramachandran, N.↗