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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 OSTI2026

Metamaterials as a Platform for the Development of Novel Materials for Energy Applications

To explore the fundamental properties of metamaterials (MMs) / metasurfaces and their potential for control of energy at the sub‐wavelength scale in support of the mission of the Department of Energy and the office of Basic Energy Sciences. Electromagnetic metamaterials provide a platform for the discovery and design of new materials with novel structures, functions, and properties. The PI proposes to advance the knowledge base of these materials through fundamental investigations of the experimental and theoretical properties of metamaterials for the discovery, prediction and design of new materials with novel structures, functions, and properties. The proposed research activities emphasize a complete basic research program including the conceptual / computational design, fabrication / synthesis of the materials, and the characterization and analysis of their electromagnetic properties. The proposed project explores the fundamental properties of metamaterials / metasurfaces and their potential for energy applications. There are three main topics which will be investigated: 1) Dispersion engineering with metamaterials and metasurfaces, 2) Epsilon near zero metamaterial absorbers and emitters, and 3) All dielectric metamaterials. The program implements a complete basic research program consisting of theory / design, modeling, characterization, and analysis, in order to fully characterize metamaterials and metasurfaces, while at the same time minimizing iterations necessary to achieve the proposal goals.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2025

ACCELERATED DEPLOYMENT OF NOVEL MATERIALS BASED ON RELIABILITY INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT USING CUMULATIVE DAMAGE MODELING

There is currently no widely agreed, detailed general method for licensing a novel plant incorporating novel materials (or materials being deployed in novel environments); in many such situations, there are no directly applicable engineering code cases for decision-makers (including regulators) to rely on. This paper discusses a framework for solving this problem that is based on the Reliability and Integrity Management (RIM) approach delineated in ASME BPVC Section XI Division 2. NRC Regulatory Guide 1.246, Rev. 0, endorses, with conditions, the subject portion of the 2019 ASME Code. The proposed framework is meant to support development of a licensing case by addressing certain remaining technical challenges. The framework discussed here is compatible with the Licensing Modernization Project, but applying it in a specific case will call for advances in the state of practice, if not the state of the art. The RIM approach calls for applicants to (a) allocate reliability targets to plant structures, systems, and components (SSCs), (b) show that they are able to relate the currently observed physical condition of each SSC in the program to its failure probability well enough to determine whether the target reliability allocations are being satisfied, allowing for uncertainty related to the novelty of the materials/designs/operating environments, and (c) be able to demonstrate that the proposed program of surveillances will reliably detect unacceptable degradation of an SSC before SSC failure occurs. A modeling approach potentially applicable to item (b), based on cumulative damage modeling rather than failure rates, is briefly illustrated.

22 - GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗
NASA NTRS2001

Microgravity Production of Nanoparticles of Novel Materials Using Plasma Synthesis

The research goal is to study the formation in reduced gravity of high quality nanoparticulate of novel materials using plasma synthesis. Particular emphasis will be placed on the production of powders of non-oxide materials like diamond, SiC, SiN, c-BN, etc. The objective of the study is to investigate the effect of gravity on plasma synthesis of these materials, and to determine how the microgravity synthesis can improve the quality and yield of the nanoparticles. It is expected that the reduced gravity will aid in the understanding of the controlling mechanisms of plasma synthesis, and will increase the yield, and quality of the synthesized powder. These materials have properties of interest in several industrial applications, such as high temperature load bearings or high speed metal machining. Furthermore, because of the nano-meter size of the particulate produced in this process, they have specific application in the fabrication of MEMS based combustion systems, and in the development and growth of nano-systems and nano-structures of these materials. These are rapidly advancing research areas, and there is a great need for high quality nanoparticles of different materials. One of the primary systems of interest in the project will be gas-phase synthesis of nanopowder of non-oxide materials.

Frenklach, Michael↗
NASA NTRS2000

Novel Materials for Application as Shielding During Extended Space Flights

Minimizing radiation exposure to humans during extended, deep space missions is a major safety concern and, consequently, a complicated materials issue. These concerns are presented and considered in view of some novel composite materials suggested for shielding applications. Advantages and disadvantages of the composites will be discussed as well as the need for coordinated testing/evaluation and modeling efforts.

Grugel, Richard N.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Simulating Superconducting Devices in Novel Materials Using the G4CMP Simulation Toolkit

Understanding the kinematics of phonons and charge propagation in superconducting devices is crucial for conducting low-threshold dark matter searches and minimizing correlated errors in superconducting qubits. For nearly a decade, the Geant4 Condensed Matter Physics (G4CMP) package, originally developed for the Cryogenic Dark Matter Search (CDMS) experiment, has been limited to simulating charge and phonon transport in silicon and germanium materials. In this work, we have expanded the capabilities of G4CMP to include novel substrate materials such as sapphire (Al2O3), Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), Lithium Fluoride (LiF), Calcium Tungstate (CaWO4), and Calcium Fluoride (CaF2). We demonstrate the use of this toolkit in generating phonon transport properties for these materials and compare the results with experimentally determined values where available. Additionally, we explore the performance of superconducting devices utilizing these materials.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Modeling athermal phonons in novel materials using the G4CMP simulation toolkit

Understanding phonon and charge propagation in superconducting devices plays an important role in both performing low-threshold dark matter searches and limiting correlated errors in superconducting qubits. The Geant4 Condensed Matter Physics (G4CMP) package, originally developed for the Cryogenic Dark Matter Search (CDMS) experiment, models charge and phonon transport within silicon and germanium detectors and has been validated by experimental measurements of phonon caustics, mean charge-carrier drift velocities, and heat pulse propagation times. Here, in this work, we present a concise framework for expanding the capabilities for phonon transport to a number of other novel substrate materials of interest to the dark matter and quantum computing communities, including sapphire (Al 2 O 3 ), gallium arsenide (GaAs), lithium fluoride (LiF), calcium tungstate (CaWO 4 ), and calcium fluoride (CaF 2 ). We demonstrate the use of this framework in generating phonon transport properties of these materials and compare these properties with experimentally-determined values where available.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
NASA NTRS2009

Novel Materials Containing Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes Wrapped in Polymer Molecules

In this design, single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been coated in polymer molecules to create a new type of material that has low electrical conductivity, but still contains individual nanotubes, and small ropes of individual nanotubes, which are themselves good electrical conductors and serve as small conducting rods immersed in an electrically insulating matrix. The polymer is attached through weak chemical forces that are primarily non-covalent in nature, caused primarily through polarization rather than the sharing of valence electrons. Therefore, the electronic structure of the SWNT involved is substantially the same as that of free, individual (and small ropes of) SWNT. Their high conductivity makes the individual nanotubes extremely electrically polarizable, and materials containing these individual, highly polarizable molecules exhibit novel electrical properties including a high dielectric constant.

Smalley, Richard E.↗
NASA NTRS2014

Novel Materials, Processing and Device Technologies for Space Exploration with Potential Dual-Use Applications

We highlight results of a broad spectrum of efforts on lower-temperature processing of nanomaterials, novel approaches to energy conversion, and environmentally rugged devices. Solution-processed quantum dots of copper indium chalcogenide semiconductors and multiwalled carbon nanotubes from lower-temperature spray pyrolysis are enabled by novel (precursor) chemistry. Metal-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructured components of photovoltaic cells have been grown in solution at low temperature on a conductive indium tin oxide substrate. Arrays of ZnO nanorods can be templated and decorated with various semiconductor and metallic nanoparticles. Utilizing ZnO in a more broadly defined energy conversion sense as photocatalysts, unwanted organic waste materials can potentially be repurposed. Current efforts on charge carrier dynamics in nanoscale electrode architectures used in photoelectrochemical cells for generating solar electricity and fuels are described. The objective is to develop oxide nanowire-based electrode architectures that exhibit improved charge separation, charge collection and allow for efficient light absorption. Investigation of the charge carrier transport and recombination properties of the electrodes will aid in the understanding of how nanowire architectures improve performance of electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells. Nanomaterials can be incorporated in a number of advanced higher-performance (i.e. mass specific power) photovoltaic arrays. Advanced technologies for the deposition of 4H-silicon carbide are described. The use of novel precursors, advanced processing, and process studies, including modeling are discussed from the perspective of enhancing the performance of this promising material for enabling technologies such as solar electric propulsion. Potential impact(s) of these technologies for a variety of aerospace applications are highlighted throughout. Finally, examples are given of technologies with potential spin-offs for dual-use or terrestrial applications.

solid state devices↗
NASA NTRS2015

Novel Materials, Processing, and Device Technologies for Space Exploration with Potential Dual-Use Applications

We highlight results of a broad spectrum of efforts on lower-temperature processing of nanomaterials, novel approaches to energy conversion, and environmentally rugged devices. Solution-processed quantum dots of copper indium chalcogenide semiconductors and multi-walled carbon nanotubes from lower-temperature spray pyrolysis are enabled by novel (precursor) chemistry. Metal-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructured components of photovoltaic cells have been grown in solution at low temperature on a conductive indium tin oxide substrate. Arrays of ZnO nanorods can be templated and decorated with various semiconductor and metallic nanoparticles. Utilizing ZnO in a more broadly defined energy conversion sense as photocatalysts, unwanted organic waste materials can potentially be re-purposed. Current efforts on charge carrier dynamics in nanoscale electrode architectures used in photoelectrochemical cells for generating solar electricity and fuels are described. The objective is to develop oxide nanowire-based electrode architectures that exhibit improved charge separation, charge collection and allow for efficient light absorption. Investigation of the charge carrier transport and recombination properties of the electrodes will aid in the understanding of how nanowire architectures improve performance of electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells. Nanomaterials can be incorporated in a number of advanced higher-performance (i.e. mass specific power) photovoltaic arrays. Advanced technologies for the deposition of 4H-silicon carbide are described. The use of novel precursors, advanced processing, and process studies, including modeling are discussed from the perspective of enhancing the performance of this promising material for enabling technologies such as solar electric propulsion. Potential impact(s) of these technologies for a variety of aerospace applications are highlighted throughout. Finally, examples are given of technologies with potential spin-offs for dual-use or terrestrial applications.

thin films↗
NASA NTRS2014

Novel Material Systems and Methodologies for Transient Thermal Management

Development of multifunctional and thermally switchable systems to address reduced mass and components, and tailored for both structural and transient thermal applications. Active, passive, and novel combinations of the two functional approaches are being developed along two lines of research investigation: switchable systems and transient heat spreading. The approach is to build in thermal functionality to structural elements to lay the foundation for a revolution in the way high energy space systems are designed.

Technology Portfolio System↗
DOE OSTI2024

NDE of Novel Materials (CFRP) [Slides]

CFRP composites have not been used for nuclear safety-related applications until recently. In 2019, the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Committee approved a new Code Case N-871 for internal repairs of Class 2 and 3 safety-related piping using CFRP for Service Levels A, B, C, and D for a service life of 50 years. The NRC did not review N-871 for inclusion in the Code Case Regulatory Guides. This project focuses on evaluating the capabilities and limitations of Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) methods for examining the Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) repairs in commercial nuclear power plants (NPPs). This Report summarizes the work done on this project until the end of FY24.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2005

Novel Material for Future Spacecrafts

Outside earth's protective magnetosphere crew members and sensitive equipment need to be protected against two primary radiation sources, namely Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR) and Solar Energetic Particles (SEP). For planetary missions, this combination of radiation particles could result in doses that are higher than the allowable level currently permitted for low-earth orbit manned missions. This SBIR project aims to develop a multifunctional and lightweight composite material that not only provides sufficient radiation shielding but also provides sufficient structural integrity to be considered as a spacecraft material. This presentation will discuss the deep space radiation problem and the material based solutions being proposed by BAE SYS scientists to overcome this problem. The presentation will focus on the initiative taken by BAE SYS scientists to proactively engage and team with experts at NASA, small business, and other federal laboratories to develop and test a dual phase composite material. The presentation will also highlight the potential benefits to our customer, NASA and also to BAE SYS.

Sen, Subbayu↗
NASA NTRS2011

Novel Materials for Prosthetic Liners

Existing materials for prosthetic liners tend to be thick and airtight, causing perspiration to accumulate inside the liner and potentially causing infection and injury that reduce quality of life. The purpose of this project was to examine the suitability of aerogel for prosthetic liner applications. Three tests were performed on several types of aerogel to assess the properties of each material. Moisture vapor permeability was tested by incubating four aerogel varieties with an artificial sweat solution at 37.0 C and less than 20% relative humidity for 24 hours. Two aerogel varieties were eliminated from the study due to difficulties in handling the material, and further testing proceeded with Pyrogel in 2.0 and 6.0 mm thicknesses. Force distribution was tested by compressing samples under a load of 4448 N at a rate of 2.5 mm/min. Biofilm formation was tested in a high-shear CDC Biofilm Reactor. Results showed that 2.0 mm Pyrogel blanket allowed 55.7 plus or minus 28.7% of an artificial sweat solution to transpire, and 35.5 plus or minus 27.8% transpired through 6.0 mm Pyrogel blanket. Samples also outperformed the load-bearing capabilities of existing liner materials. No statistically significant difference was found between the two Pyrogel thicknesses for either moisture vapor permeability or force distribution. In addition, biofilm formation results showed no change between the two Pyrogel thicknesses. The breathability and load bearing properties of aerogel make it a suitable material for application to prosthetic liners.

Ragolta, Carolina I.↗
NASA NTRS2014

Aeroelastic Tailoring of the NASA Common Research Model via Novel Material and Structural Configurations

This work explores the use of tow steered composite laminates, functionally graded metals (FGM), thickness distributions, and curvilinear rib/spar/stringer topologies for aeroelastic tailoring. Parameterized models of the Common Research Model (CRM) wing box have been developed for passive aeroelastic tailoring trade studies. Metrics of interest include the wing weight, the onset of dynamic flutter, and the static aeroelastic stresses. Compared to a baseline structure, the lowest aggregate static wing stresses could be obtained with tow steered skins (47% improvement), and many of these designs could reduce weight as well (up to 14%). For these structures, the trade-off between flutter speed and weight is generally strong, although one case showed both a 100% flutter improvement and a 3.5% weight reduction. Material grading showed no benefit in the skins, but moderate flutter speed improvements (with no weight or stress increase) could be obtained by grading the spars (4.8%) or ribs (3.2%), where the best flutter results were obtained by grading both thickness and material. For the topology work, large weight reductions were obtained by removing an inner spar, and performance was maintained by shifting stringers forward and/or using curvilinear ribs: 5.6% weight reduction, a 13.9% improvement in flutter speed, but a 3.0% increase in stress levels. Flutter resistance was also maintained using straightrotated ribs although the design had a 4.2% lower flutter speed than the curved ribs of similar weight and stress levels were higher. These results will guide the development of a future design optimization scheme established to exploit and combine the individual attributes of these technologies.

Jutte, Christine V.↗
NASA NTRS2017

Novel Materials for Biofilm Inhibition

Microbial contamination onboard the International Space Station (ISS) continues to pose significant mission risks, both terms of crew health and functionality of mechanical systems.

Hummerick, Mary↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

An Analysis of the Laboratory and Environmental Impacts of Space Weathering on Novel Materials in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

The Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) project is a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) initiative that was launched in 2001 with the aim of studying the effects of the low Earth orbit (LEO) space environment on a variety of materials. Since its inception, the MISSE project has tested approximately 4,000 different material samples and specimens, evaluating their durability and performance in the harsh and challenging conditions of space. This paper provides an overview of the 16th MISSE project performed by the versatile team of researchers led by the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) from 08/31/22 to 02/23/23. Details of the orbital environment during the mission, MISSE platform hardware upgrade, and space data acquisition process are discussed.

Elena A Plis↗
NASA NTRS2001

Thermal Performance of Biological Substance Systems in Vitro Under Static and Dynamic Conditions at the Cryogenic Test Laboratory, NASA Kennedy Space Center, USA

A unique research program, including a comprehensive study of thermal performance at cryogenic vacuum insulation systems, was performed at the NASA Kennedy Space Center. The main goal was to develop a new soft vacuum system (from 1 torr to 10 torr) that provides an intermediate level of performance (k-value below 4.8 mW/m-K). Liquid nitrogen boil-off methods were used to test conventional materials, novel materials, and certain combinations. The test articles included combinations of aluminum foil, fiberglass paper, polyester fabric, silica aerogel composite blanket, fumed silica, silica aerogel powder, and syntactic foam. A new LCI system was developed at the Cryogenics Test Laboratory. This system performs exceptionally well at soft vacuum levels and nearly as good as an MLI at high vacuum levels. Apparent thermal conductivities for the LCI range from 2 mW/m-K at soft vacuum to 0.1 mW/m-K at high vacuum. Several cryostats were designed, constructed, and calibrated by the Cryogenics Test Laboratory at KSC NASA as part of this research program. The cryostat test apparatus is a liquid nitrogen boil-off calorimeter system for direct measurement of the apparent thermal conductivity at a fixed vacuum level between 5 x 10(exp -5) and 760 torr. The apparatus is also used for transient measurements of temperature profiles. The development of efficient, robust cryogenic insulation systems has been a targeted area of research for a number of years. Improved methods of characterization, testing, and evaluation of complex biological substance systems for cryosurgery and cryobiology are the focus of this paper.

Augustynowicz, S. D.↗