Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Using a coplanar, end-mounted antenna as a baseline, various configuration trades were performed to select a preferred solid state concept. The increase in efficiency that could be realized by use of multi bandgap solar cells, either with klystron or solid state antenna was evaluated. Satellite configurations were developed to exploit the sandwich antenna concept wherein solar cells are located on one side of the antenna panel and solid state dc/RF converters on the other side. These concepts entailed various primary and secondary reflector arrangements for directing solar energy to the solar cell side of the antenna with higher concentration ratios than used on the coplanar configurations. Operations analysis included development of a satellite construction scenario, a concept for the SCB, a top-level satellite construction operation, construction operation, construction timelines and crew sizes, mass flows to orbit, and a satellite maintenance scenario. The list ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This thesis is devoted to the study and development of Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors (HBTs) designed for high voltage operation. The work concentrates on the use of wide bandgap III-V semiconductor materials as the collector material and their associated properties influencing breakdown, such as impact ionisation coefficients. The work deals with issues related to incorporating a wide bandgap collector into double heterojunction structures such as conduction band discontinuities at the base-collector junction and results are presented which detail, a number of methods designed to eliminate the effects of such discontinuities. In particular the use of AlGaAs as the base material has been successful in eliminating the conduction band spike at this interface. A method of electrically injecting electrons into the collector has been employed to investigate impact ionisation in GaAs, ...

Science.gov (United States)

The authors present electric-field dependent electroreflectance and photocurrent spectra of visible-bandgap In{sub x}(Al{sub y}Ga{sub 1{minus}y}){sub 1{minus}x}P/In{sub x{prime}}(Al{sub y{prime}}Ga{sub 1{minus}y{prime}}){sub 1{minus}x{prime}}P multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures. These structures, grown by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy on 6{degrees}-misoriented (100) GaAs substrates, have undoped MQWs sandwiched between doped In{sub 0.5}Al{sub 0.5}P layers, forming p-i-n diodes. Quantum-well compositions in the range 0.46{le}x{le}0.52 and 0{le}y{le}0.4, corresponding to bandgaps in the red to yellow-green range, were used. The Stark shifts in these various samples were measured and found to depend on the details of the Mg p-type doping profile, confirming important diffusion effects, in agreement with secondary ion mass spectrometry and capacitance-voltage data. The results show that these new materials are promising ...

CERN Document Server

Cadmium telluride (CdTe) and cadmium zinc telluride (CdZnTe) have been regarded as promising semiconductor materials for hard X-ray and Gamma-ray detection. The high atomic number of the materials (Z_{Cd} =48, Z_{Te} =52) gives a high quantum efficiency in comparison with Si. The large band-gap energy (Eg ~ 1.5 eV) allows us to operate the detector at room temperature. However, a considerable amount of charge loss in these detectors produces a reduced energy resolution. This problem arises due to the low mobility and short lifetime of holes. Recently, significant improvements have been achieved to improve the spectral properties based on the advances in the production of crystals and in the design of electrodes. In this overview talk, we summarize (1) advantages and disadvantages of CdTe and CdZnTe semiconductor detectors and (2) technique for improving energy resolution and photopeak efficiencies. Applications of these ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

III-V semiconductors, GaAs and in particular InGaP, are used in many different electronic applications, such as high power and high frequency devices, laser diodes and high brightness LED. Their direct bandgap and high reliability make them ideal candidates for the realisation of high efficiency solar cells: in the past years they have been successfully used as power sources for satellites in space, where they are able to produce electricity from sunlight with an overall efficiency of around 30%. Nowadays, the use of arsenides and phosphides as photovoltaic (PV) devices is confined only to space applications since their price is much higher than conventional Si flat panel modules, the leading PV market technology. But with the introduction of multijunction solar cells capable of operating in high concentration solar light, the area and, therefore, the cost of these cells can be reduced and will eventually find an application and market also on Earth. This article ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

New rare earth oxide emitters show greater efficiency than previous emitters. As a result, based on a simple model the efficiency of these emitters was calculated. Results indicate that the emission band of the selective emitter must be at relatively low energy (less than or equal to .52 eV) to obtain maximum efficiency at moderate emitter temperatures (less than or equal to 1500 K). Thus low bandgap energy PV materials are required to obtain an efficient thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system. Of the 4 specific rare earths (Nd, Ho, Er, Yb) studied Ho has the largest efficiency at moderate temperatures (72 percent at 1500 K). A comparison was made between a selective emitter TPV system and a TPV system that uses a thermal emitter plus a band pass filter to make the thermal emitter behave like a selective emitter. Results of the comparison indicate that only for very optimistic filter and thermal emitter properties will the filter TPV system have a ...

Science.gov (United States)

... of the Evaluation of the Instructional Materials Development Program (PDF, 412 kb) Chapter I ... kb) Appendix 2: Instrument for Evaluating Materials (PDF, 935 kb) Appendix 3: Classroom Observation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The following topics are discussed: program goal and objectives, program organization, and program status. Current program projects are described. (MHR)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Photocurrent and capacitance measurements of semiconductor passive films formed on metals and alloys can be used to study the electronic properties and reveal indirect information about structure and composition. The current work used these techniques to investigate the electronic properties of the passive films formed on three austenitic stainless steels, types 304L, 316L and 254SMO, in borate. Evidence was found for the existence of a large number of localised mid bandgap states, consistent with amorphous oxides. However, the flat-band potentials of the austenitic stainless steel passive films were found to be independent of both composition and measuring frequency. The most credible explanation for the bandgap values determined from photocurrent measurements is that the passive films are formed as dual layers, iron oxide outer layer and chromium oxide inner layer. This model does not need to evoke the potential dependent ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In the present study the optical properties of co-evaporated indium sulfide thin films are investigated. Before being optically characterized, the composition as well as the crystalline properties of the film have been checked with the help of energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The optical absorption coefficient ? of this indium sulfide film has been deduced from reflectivity R(?) and transmission T(?) measurements. The fit of the curve representing ?(h?) suggests that the ?-In2S3 has an indirect bandgap of 2.01?eV. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed on this indium sulfide compound, using TB-LMTO code. Through these band structure investigations, an indirect bandgap is predicted as observed experimentally. The top of the valen...

Environmental Research Database

DescriptionThe objective is to exploit the use of wheat as an industrial raw material and understand the effect of material variation in wheat starch and flour on final material properties for food packaging applications. The project will focus on property enhancement in terms of stiffness, strength, toughness, moisture barrier resistance, transparency, ageing resistance, microbial stability and biodegradability of starch-based packaging materials made by sheet extrusion and thermoforming processes, in ord [continued...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Heat-of-fusion storage materials for low temperature latent heat storage in the temperature range 0-120 C are reviewed. Organic and inorganic heat storage materials classified as paraffins, fatty acids, inorganic salt hydrates and eutectic compounds are considered. The melting and freezing behavior of the various substances is investigated using the techniques of Thermal Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The importance of thermal cycling tests for establishing the long-term stability of the storage materials is discussed. Finally, some data pertaining to the corrosion compatibility of heat-of-fusion substances with conventional materials of construction is presented.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This work presents and describes the natural radioactive occurrence in oil facilities. The origins of the detected radioactivity and the reasons of its settlement are discussed. The measurements results carried out in oil facilities in the Neuquina basin (Argentine) are shown in this work. The aim is to describe the actual situation and to evaluate the magnitude of the problem. Finally, recommendations are proposed to protect the health of the workers, especially of those who carry out the cleaning of the equipment, and to guarantee an appropriate final disposal for the generated radioactive residuals. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radionuclide X-ray fluorescence method with a Si/Li semiconductor detector and "2"3"8Pu exciting source was used in the study of Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Pb content of solid emissions, raw and final materials of a brick factory. From the point of view of metal content, the working environment if the brick factory is safe for workers. (author) 2 refs.; 2 figs.; 1 tab.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background, aim, and scope Semi-trailers with load boxes are the most important mode of grain transport by land in the world. Load boxes can be produced with different materials such as: wood, steel, and synthetic material. They are responsible for effectiveness retention and quality of grains during the transport. Among the main aspects to be considered and valued when selecting materials for load boxes are the final mass of the semi-trailer, loss of grains, and mechanical properties. Environmental performance is another important aspect to be taken into account for developing and selecting new materials in this kind of application. This study presents a comparative environmental evaluation of load boxes built from two different materials (a wood panel and a three-layer synthetic (TLS) pa...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Energy Related Inventions Program Number 613 was a two year program to commercialize a unique new wear material, Metal Reinforced Carbon Composite, MRCC. The program was designed to manufacture sample components of MRCC for evaluation by potential users and manufacturers. As a result of the program Burton Technologies Inc. and Rotary Power International are forming a joint company to manufacture, market and license MRCC materials to a wide range of industries.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Four subprojects were completed: development and evaluation of die coatings, accelerated die life characterization of die materials, evaluation of fluid flow and solidification modeling programs, selection and characterization of Al-based die casting alloys, and influence of die materials and coatings on die casting quality.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Final Report documents the research accomplishments achieved in the first phase of operations of a new Advanced Photon Source beam line (7-ID MHATT-CAT) dedicated to real-time x-ray studies. The period covered by this report covers the establishment of a world-class facility for time-dependent x-ray studies of materials. During this period many new and innovative research programs were initiated at Sector 7 with support of this grant, most notably using a combination of ultrafast lasers and pulsed synchrotron radiation. This work initiated a new frontier of materials research: namely, the study of the dynamics of materials under extreme conditions of high intensity impulsive laser irradiation.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Refractive indices of some mixed compound semiconductors below the bandgap are presented on the basis of some fundamental parameters and the effect of lattice mismatch on the refractive index step is also studied. The results help to design a variety of opto-electronic devices for the use in optical fiber communication and heterostructure lasers. The calculated values agree well with available experimental values thus justifying the approach. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The development of a silicon carbide (SiC) heat exchanger is a critical step in the development of the Externally-Fired Combined Cycle (EFCC) power system. SiC is the only material that provides the necessary combination of resistance to creep, thermal shock, and oxidation. While the SiC structure materials provide the thermomechanical and thermophysical properties needed for an efficient system, the mechanical properties of the SiC tubes are severely degraded through corrosion by the coal combustion products. To obtain the necessary service life of thousands of hours at temperature, a protective coating is needed that is stable with both the SiC tube and the coal combustion products, resists erosion from the particle laden gas stream, is thermal shock resistant, adheres to SiC during repeated thermal shocks (start-up, process upsets, shut-down), and allows the EFCC system to be cost competitive. This demanding set of technical performance and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The neutron transmutation doping (NTD) method was applied to the initially p-type silicon in order to extend the NTD applications at HANARO. The relationship between the irradiation neutron fluence and the final resistivity of the initially p-type silicon material was investigated. The proportional constant between the neutron fluence and the resistivity was determined to be 2.3473x1019 n ? cm-1. The deviation of the final resistivity from the target for almost all the irradiation results of the initially p-type silicon ingots was at a range from -5% to 2%. In addition, the burn-up effect of the boron impurities, the residual 32P activity and the effect of the compensation characteristics for the initially p-type silicon were studied. Conclusively, the practical methodology to perform the neutron transmutation doping of the initially p-type silicon ingot was established.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper proves that it is practicable to build a new power model which can work efficiently at night by using a type of fluorescence material. The utilization efficiency of photovoltaic cell is improved by prolonging the actual working hours of the cell within 24 hours. Both theoretical analysis and experiment on this model are carried out, and base on which the current-time curve (I-t curve) is depicted. It shows that the model which applies the fluorescence material to photovoltaic system is available. According to the analysis and comparison between the attenuating curve of the material and I-t curve of the power system, we can conclude that the weak illumination and the mismatch on wavelength are primary reasons for the low current. Finally, several improved measures of this power model for practical application are given, and it is expected to provide a new thought for photovoltaic study. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this project was to develop improved dynamic failure models for brittle materials (primarily ceramics). The approach to developing these failure models was to establish a database (ACERAM) in which fundamental material properties and processing information could be directly correlated with ballistic performance data. Under this contract, a comprehensive literature search was conducted, many contacts were established in the armor/anti-armor research and development community, and database development was undertaken. A more limited project was also undertaken to assess and compare the effects of material properties and penetration mechanisms on the ballistic performance of depleted uranium and tungsten alloy penetrators.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Magnetic materials such as yttrium iron garnet (YIG) are of great importance for its magneto-optic properties and for their potential applications in the domain of optical telecommunications. The deposition of thin films of YIG, on quartz or GGG (gadolinium gallium garnet) substrate, was performed using radio frequency non reactive magnetron sputtering, followed by high temperature annealing which is needed to enhance the crystallinity of the layers. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry RBS was used to determine the thickness and stoichiometry of the performed layers in order to investigate correlations between growth conditions and the quality of the final material. RBS measurements showed the influence of the deposition time and the temperature substrate on the film growth and its stoichiometry. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Melt Vessel Interaction (MVI) project is concerned with the consequences of the interactions that a core melt, generated during a postulated severe accident in a light water reactor, may have with the pressure vessel. In particular, the issues concerned with the failure of the vessel bottom head are the focus of the research. The specific objectives of the project are to obtain data and develop validated models, which could be applied to prototypic plants, and accident conditions, for resolution of issues related to the melt vessel interactions. The project work has been performed by nine partners having varied responsibility. The work included a large number of experiments, with simulant materials, whose observations and results are employed, respectively, to understand the physical mechanisms and to develop validated models. Applications to the prototypic geometry and conditions have also been performed. This report is volume 1 of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two geriatic male rhesus monkeys were used for the radioisotope imaging in this research. Discussion of the radionuclide, materials, and method used to accomplish the neurologic examination and the results obtained, both during the procedure and confirmation of the results by necropsies were accompanied by color photos of scan images. Results were that the nuclear images provided accurate images of intracranial neoplasia.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Interaction of drilling fluids with a geothermal reservoir formation can result in significant permeability impairment and therefore reduced well productivity. This interaction is studied under simulated in situ geothermal conditions of overburden stress, pore fluid pressure, temperature, and pore fluid chemistry. Permeability impairment of an East Mesa KGRA reservoir material is evaluated as a function of stagnation time, drilling fluid, and temperature. Results indicate that all of these parameters contribute significantly to the magnitude and the reversibility of the impairment.

Science.gov (United States)

A high-efficiency 3- or 4-junction solar cell is disclosed with a theoretical AM0 energy conversion efficiency of about 40%. The solar cell includes p-n junctions formed from indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN), gallium arsenide (GaAs) and indium gallium aluminum phosphide (InGaAlP) separated by n-p tunnel junctions. An optional germanium (Ge) p-n junction can be formed in the substrate upon which the other p-n junctions are grown. The bandgap energies for each p-n junction are tailored to provide substantially equal short-circuit currents for each p-n junction, thereby eliminating current bottlenecks and improving the overall energy conversion efficiency of the solar cell. Additionally, the use of an InGaAsN p-n junction overcomes super-bandgap energy losses that are present in conventional multi-junction solar cells. A method is also disclosed for fabricating the high-efficiency 3- or 4-junction solar cell by metal-organic chemical ...

Science.gov (United States)

With the help of self-assembly, thermal sintering, selective etching techniques and sol-gel process, the non-close packed (ncp) face-centered cubic (fcc) photonic crystals of titanium dioxide (TiO2) hollow spheres connected by TiO2 cylindrical tubes have been fabricated using silica template. The photonic bandgap calculations indicate that the ncp structure of TiO2 hollow spheres was easier to open the pseudogaps than close packed system at the lowest energy. PMID:17097102

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Most plans for the disposition of surplus nuclear materials involve storage in sealed containers where the evolution of gases from reactions of adsorbed water could present both pressure and flammability hazards[l] . Despite efforts such as calcining the material to minimize the water content prior to packaging, both residual moisture and readsorbed water may be present in the final containers . Given the anticipated temperature excursions during transportation and storage, this water may thermally desorb, increasing the pressure, and/or thermally dissociate to produce H2 gas, increasing flammability hazards . In addition, the radiation from the nuclear material may induce radiolysis of the water with the likely products being water vapor, H2, 02 and H2O2. In order to better understand the relative importance of the thermal- and radiationinduced chemistry, we have studied the interactions of water on ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In January of 1977 the Paraho Development Company under contract with the United States Navy began a semi-works project to produce and refine up to 100,000 barrels of crude shale oil. Although the primary objective of the project was to produce specification turbine and diesel transportation fuels for field testing by the military field testing, the full-scale refinery run also produced a substantial quantity of hydrotreated shale oil residue. In 1978 the Electric Power Research Institute, recognizing the utilization potential of this material as a fuel for utility combustion turbines, obtained 4300 barrels of the residual shale oil product for future field testing. This report describes the processes involved in producing, handling, and storing the residual shale oil test material. The report also includes detailed chemical and physical analyses of the test material. In addition, guidelines which can be applied to future ...

Science.gov (United States)

The progress made during the first two years of a program to study the migration of grain boundaries in ceramic oxides is reported. The principal results of the program are concerned with the structure of grain boundaries in ..cap alpha..-Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/, although important new information has also been obtained on grain boundaries in spinels and both germanlum and silicon. Attention is focused on the basal twin boundary in ..cap alpha..-Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ which had been identified as a model interface in early work. A series of new grain boundaries exemplified by the (11anti23) twin are also discussed briefly as is the rhombohedral twin interface. Earlier results on the first-order (..sigma..=3) twin in spinel have been extended with the development of models for the computer-simulation of high-resolution TEM images of these interfaces. A study of low-angle grain boundaries in spinel is giving new insight into the effect which the large size of the unit cell and the multiplicity of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The compound semiconductor system InGaAsN exhibits many intriguing properties which are particularly useful for the development of innovative high efficiency thin film solar cells and long wavelength lasers. The bandgap in these semiconductors can be varied by controlling the content of N and In and the thin films can yet be lattice-matched to GaAs. In the present work, x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) and grazing incidence x-ray scattering (GIXS) techniques have been employed to probe the local environment surrounding both N and In atoms as well as the interface morphology of InGaAsN thin films epitaxially grown on GaAs. The soft x-ray XAFS results around nitrogen K-edge reveal that N is in the sp{sup 3} hybridized bonding configuration in InGaAsN and GaAsN, suggesting that N impurities most likely substitute for As sites in these two compounds. The results of In K-edge XAFS suggest a possible trend of a slightly larger coordination number of As nearest ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A continuous gas laser may be operated reliably with an increased pressure level and current level without significant cathode sputtering. This increases the service life and the specific power of the laser. The design eliminates the formation of arcs in operational conditions, which also has a positive influence on laser operation. The proposed laser is used successfully in modern interferometry, in geodesy and in materials analysis. The laser design is characterized by the presence of separation rings inside the coaxial cathode. The separation rings are fastened to the anode. The anode is a perforated tube that is connected to two final protective rings. Electrodes from the housing pass through the final rings. In order to increase laser power, two or more lasers of such design are used and are positioned on the same axis in a single housing.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Project ``Middle School Integrated Science, Mathematics and Technology Curriculum`` had two goals: (1) to survey the literature of energy education; and (2) to develop a theme for a possible integrated middle school energy based curriculum. We aimed to respond to the challenge of developing thematic integrated curricula as advocated by the NSTA, AAAS and other organizations analyzing the future of American science and mathematics education. The survey of middle school energy curriculum materials has been completed. A list of the resources surveyed are included in this report. Though many energy based curriculum materials have been produced, none of them appears to be broadly disseminated throughout the country. Some energy based curriculum materials are far less well developed than others. We found that an integrated set of modular materials concerning the energy based theme of light and optics does ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper evaluates the two well-known final waste disposal methods, incineration and landfilling. In particular we compare the social cost of two best-available technologies using a point estimate based on private and environmental cost data for the Netherlands. Not only does our comparison allow for Waste-to-Energy incineration plants but for landfills as well. The data provide support for the widespread policy preference for incineration over landfilling only if the analysis is restricted to environmental costs alone and includes savings of both energy and material recovery. Gross private costs, however, are so much higher for incineration, that landfilling is the social cost minimizing option at the margin even in a densely populated country such as the Netherlands. Furthermore, we show that our result generalizes to other European countries and probably to the USA. Implications for waste policy are discussed as well. Proper treatment of ...

Science.gov (United States)

To estimate the waste management needs of a fusion power reactor, a scheme for handling radioactive waste from a fusion plant has been devised. The handling scheme proceeds with radioactive waste, primarily from blanket replacement, being stored on-site; waste in cooled and shielded casks is then isolated off-site; finally, the materials are recycled. Using activities and component lifetimes supplied by designers, several conceptual fusion power reactors have been analyzed and their waste streams compared to fission reactors with regard to total activity, specific activity, and lifetimes of activity.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The activities and results of a Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project entitled ''Rapid Tools for Joint Inversion and Imaging'' are presented. Research and development on three-dimensional methods to recover distributions of material property values from sparse data are reported. Innovations using artificial neural networks and extended Kalman filtering are described. The report also covers investigations on upscaling and downscaling, segmentation for data processing, and applications to ground penetrating radar and geohydraulic tomography.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We consider a serial supply chain consisting of a raw material supplier, a manufacturer, a distribution centre and a retailer in the presence of time-varying delivery between manufacturer facility and the retailer warehouse. Delivery time functions are developed based on practical data analysis and the cost models for both linear and non-linear delivery time functions are derived. Analytic solution for system with linear delivery times is derived and a search algorithm for system with non-linear delivery times is established. Finally, sensitivity analysis is made to help decision makers achieve a lower total cost in practice.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Existing applications of Alloy 800 are summarized, with particular reference to its use in various types of reactor. The need for a co-ordinated research and development programme is stressed, and the variables to be explored are outlined. The papers relating to the problem of corrosion and cracking in water and steam are considered. the strength and ductility of Alloy 800 is considered. Finally, sections of the summary deal with the use of Alloy 800 for (a) sodium cooled fast reactor boiler tubes; (b) the high temperature gas cooled reactor; and (c) PWR steam generator tubes. (U.K.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the technical issues pertaining to possible destructive interactions between spent nuclear fuels (SNFs) and the stainless steel canisters. When issues are identified through such an analysis, they provide the technical basis for answering what if questions and, if needed, for conducting additional analyses, testing, or other efforts to resolve them in order to base the licensing on solid technical grounds. The analysis reported herein systematically assessed the chemical and physical properties and the potential interactions of the materials that comprise typical US Department of Energy (DOE) SNFs and the stainless steel canisters in which they will be stored, transported, and placed in a geologic repository for final disposition. The primary focus in each step of the analysis was to identify any possible phenomena that could potentially compromise the structural integrity of the canisters and to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new experimental technique to measure material shear strength at high pressures has been developed for use on magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) drive pulsed power platforms. By applying an external static magnetic field to the sample region, the MHD drive directly induces a shear stress wave in addition to the usual longitudinal stress wave. Strength is probed by passing this shear wave through a sample material where the transmissible shear stress is limited to the sample strength. The magnitude of the transmitted shear wave is measured via a transverse VISAR system from which the sample strength is determined.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper describes the latest developments in STRASSY (Strategy Assistance System), the strategy assistance system for the inspection of nuclear materials. The user can now select the fuel cycle he wishes to investigate from an initial range of 19 facilities. An inspection interface has been developed to enable the details and dates of inspections to be modified. One of the special features of the application of STRASSY in international safeguards is the taking into account of timeliness of detection; certain aspects of the time manager algorithms are presented and analysed, including the guaranteed existence of a solution. The results of a study of diversion paths in a simplified cycle consisting of our facilities are presented. Finally, the modifications necessary to enable STRASSY to be used for a posterior analysis of inspection results are discussed. (authors). 7 refs., 3 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Dowex 50W-X8 and 50W-Xl2 resin samples are both strong acid cation materials in the hydrogen form. Each material has a water retention capacity characteristic of its respective marketed degree of cross-linking. Dowex 21K gives confirmatory responses to tests for a strong anion exchange resin in the nitrate form. All three resins have the manufacturer`s specified ionic type and form, and the Dowex 50W resins have characteristic water retention capacities. These tests conclude that the ion exchange resins in use in FB-Line meet the approved safety document criteria for cross-linking, ionic form, and resin type.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The final report for a Laboratory Directed Research and Development project entitled, ``Capturing Recrystallization of Metals in a Multiscale Materials Model'' is presented. In this project, deformation and recrystallization processes have been followed experimentally and theoretically in order to incorporate essential mechanisms from the defect (dislocation) and grain size length scales. A nonlinear rotational gradient theory has been developed which enables the incorporation of microstructural parameters. The evolution of these parameters during deformation and recrystallization has been characterized qualitatively and quantitatively, applying various electron optic techniques ranging over several length scales. The theoretical and experimental framework developed is general. It has been exemplified by an application to recrystallization in single crystals and bicrystals of aluminum. The recrystallization process has been ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A comprehensive review was conducted of primary helium coolant chemistry data, based on current and past operating histories of helium-cooled, high-temperature reactors (HTGRs), including the Fort St. Vrain (FSV) HTGR. A reference observed FSV reactor coolant environment was identified. Further, a slightly drier expected FSV coolant chemistry was predicted for reactor operation at 100% of full power. The expected environment was compared with helium test environments used in the US, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Japan. Based on a comprehensive review and analysis of mechanical property data reported for Alloy 800 tested in controlled-impurity helium environments (and in air when appropriate for comparison), an assessment was made of the effect of FSV expected helium chemistry on material properties of alloy 800, with emphasis on design properties of the Alloy 800 material utilized in the FSV steam generators.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The dispersion of more than 20 vol pct submicrometer ceramic particles within a metallic matrix and the deposition of such a cermet to form a thick and tough coating presents problems. Most of the coating techniques have failed in attempting to homogeneously disperse very fine and hard particles in large amounts while avoiding their decomposition or reaction with the metal matrix during the deposition process. A simple and efficient method has been developed for producing ceramic-containing composite coatings. It consists in synthesizing cermet-based materials and in depositing them by a rapid solidification process, such as thermal spraying. Boride- and carbide-based materials have been successfully obtained by plasma spraying reactive powders comprising the basic reagents. These materials, with a microstructure of submicrometer ceramic particles dispersed in a metallic matrix, exhibit good wear-resistant properties ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The corrosion resistance of zircaloy is affected by conditions of heat treatment in the manufacturing steps to be formed into a final product as a structural material. In the manufacturing method of the present invention, a Zr alloy controlled to contain Sn: 0.8 to 1.2wt%, Fe: 0.17 to 0.28wt%, Cr: 0.05 to 0.15wt%, Ni: 0.04 to 0.10wt%, Nb: 0.01 to 0.09wt%, oxygen: 1,000 to 1,500ppm and Si, an Si impurity at a concentration of 120ppm or less and balance of Zr is melted into a cast piece, to which #beta# hardening is applied. Then, rolling and annealing treatment are applied so that the total heat input amount to the material: #SIGMA#Ai ranges from 1 x 10"-"1"9 to 1 x 10"-"1"7. With such procedures, a Zr alloy structural material for a reactor core having excellent homogeneous corrosion resistance and hydrogen absorption resistance for a long period of time while having a sufficient strength can be ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is the final report of a two-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). Functionally graded material is an enabling technology for lightweight body armor improvements. The objective was to demonstrate the ability to produce functionally graded ceramic-polymer and ceramic-metal lightweight armor materials. This objective involved two aspects. The first and key aspect was the development of graded-porosity boron-carbide ceramic microstructures. The second aspect was the development of techniques for liquid infiltration of lightweight metals and polymers into the graded-porosity ceramic. The authors were successful in synthesizing boron-carbide ceramic microstructures with graded porosity. These graded-porosity boron-carbide hot-pressed pieces were then successfully liquid-infiltrated in vacuum with molten aluminum at 1,300 C, and with liquid polymers at ...

Science.gov (United States)

Description of courses, curriculum and degree program. "Ceramic and materials engineers design, develop, and participate in the manufacture of both standard and new materials intended for use in a wide variety of industries with diverse applications. These range from the semi-conductor to the aerospace and finally to the traditional ceramics industry. The broad scope of industrial responsibilities handled by ceramic and materials engineers requires knowledge in mathematics, science, engineering, and the social sciences, skills in problem solving, engineering analysis, design, and written and oral communication. The baccalaureate program integrates laboratory with classroom experiences to prepare students for life-long learning. Courses covering thermodynamics, kinetics, mechanical behavior, processing and characterization of materials prepare students for careers in industry and/or ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Full text of publication follows: Energy and environment are two major concerns in our modern society due to the coming shortage in fossil energy sources and the growing of greenhouse gas emissions. The challenge for the coming years is to discover new energy resources and to develop devices that are compatible with a sustainable development and generate few (or zero) emission. One of these devices is the fuel cell feed by hydrogen, whose application fields are very large. In particular, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is the most realistic device for automotive application. However, hydrogen storage remains one of the most important challenges regarding its development. Although different techniques are available for storing hydrogen, no ideal solution has been found yet. Compression needs elaborated tanks in shape for supporting high pressures, liquefaction requires an expensive hydrogen cooling and adapted tanks. Chemical storage by hydrides imposes heavy devices. A ...

CERN Document Server

Acoustic metamaterials with negative effective mass below a cut-off frequency are studied. An equivalent mass-spring structure is firstly proposed for such metamaterials, the effective mass is found to follow the Drude model: being negative below a specific frequency. The peculiar behavior is then verified by transmission experiments operating in the low-frequency regime. Inspired by the mass-spring model, we investigate the two-dimensional elastic waveguide with clamped boundaries and attribute the bandgap occurring below a critical frequency to negative effective mass density. The finding helps us to design a new acoustic Drude metamaterial, which enables shearing and bending deformations, in contrast to the membrane-type ones. Both simulation and experimental results show that the proposed metamaterial exhibits negative effective mass below 1200 Hz, thus opening broadband applications in vibration and noise controls.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Trends in front-end-of-line technology are discussed. At the chip level, many of the important parameters are published in the National Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors in 1994. At the device and circuit level, both bipolar and CMOS are scalable. However, the large standby power of bipolar circuits severely limits the integration level of bipolar chips. The inherently low standby power of CMOS, on the contrary, allows the integration level of CMOS circuits to continue increasing with scaling. In reality, both the electric field and power density of CMOS devices have been gradually rising over the generations owing to non-scaling effects of thermal voltage and silicon bandgap. As power supply voltage reaches 1.5V and below, circuit performance can only be gained at the expense of higher active or standby power of the chip. Implications of device scaling on contact and silicide technology are addressed. Trends of local and global interconnect scaling are ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this work passive films formed in AISI 304 stainless steel were envisaged as semiconductors and studied by means of photoelectrochemistry and Mott-Schottky plots. The passive films were potentiostatically formed at different potentials (0.2-0.8V) in a basic borate/boric acid solution without and with addition of NaCl (0.5 and 1g/l) and at various temperatures in the range 8-60"oC. The influence of these parameters on the photocurrent, quantum efficiency, bandgap energy and density of charge carriers was determined. The results show that the experimental conditions at which the films are formed influence the semiconductive properties of the film, which seem to be related to the higher or lower stability of the film. An Arrhenius type of relationship was also found between the density of charge carriers and temperature, leading to the determination of an activation energy. (author) 13 refs., 7 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The current specifications of the LLNL fusion-fission hybrid proposal, namely LIFE, impose severe constraints on materials, and in particular on the nuclear fissile or fertile nuclear fuel and its immediate environment. This constitutes the focus of the present report with special emphasis on phase formation and phase transformations of the transmutation fuel and their consequences on particle and pebble thermal, chemical, and mechanical integrities. We first review the work that has been done in recent years to improve materials properties under the Gen-IV project, and with in particular applications to HTGR and MSR, and also under GNEP and AFCI in the USA. Our goal is to assess the nuclear fuel options that currently exist together with their issues. Among the options, it is worth mentioning TRISO, IMF, and molten salts. The later option will not be discussed in details since an entire report (Volume 8 - Molten-salt Fuels) is dedicated to it. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nanometre-sized materials, like nanowires, nanoparticles or nanobelts, are gaining huge interest as building blocks of modern electronic nanodevices. Their fabrication feasibility has been demonstrated in the last years, and different routes are already well established in order to synthesize these materials. However, the assessment of their electrical properties is still a challenging issue, due to the difficulty to perform a precise nanolithography process allowing the access to such small structures. The fabrication of metallic contacts with precision in the nanometre range is necessary, as well as achieving a flexible system that allows to contact individual structures. Such a system could be a dual-beam Focused Ion Beam instrument, which combines Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) in one machine, able to assist deposition of materials with nanometre precision. In this work, the methodology of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Neutron transmutation doping(NTD) for producing ntype silicon semiconductor is based on the conversion of the Si-30 isotope into phosphorus atom by neutron absorption reaction. By using this method, silicon semiconductors with extremely uniform n-type dopant distributions can be produced, and this is the dominant advantage of NTD compared with the conventional chemical doping. HANARO has two vertical holes for NTD, and the commercial NTD service for 5 and 6 inch silicon ingots has been going on at the NTD2 hole. Generally, NTD method is applied to the initially n-type silicon material. But, an initially p-type silicon material can also be used for the production of uniformly doped n-type silicon by using NTD method. Therefore, in this work, we investigated the relationship between the irradiation neutron fluence and the final resistivity of the initially p-type silicon material. Thereafter, we ...

CERN Document Server

From this vast subject, I will pick out and review three specific topics, namely the formation and evolution of bars, the formation of bulges, and the evolution during multiple major mergers. Bars form naturally in galactic discs. Their evolution is driven by the exchange of angular momentum within the galaxy. This is emitted mainly by near-resonant material in the inner disc (bar), and is absorbed by near-resonant material in the outer disc and in the halo. As a result of this, the bar becomes stronger and rotates slower. Bulges are not a homogeneous class of objects. Based on their formation history, one can distinguish three types. Classical bulges are mainly formed before the actual disc component, from collapses or mergers and the corresponding dissipative processes. Boxy/peanut bulges are parts of bars seen edge-on. Finally, disc-like bulges are formed by the inflow of material to the center due ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Four types of cellulose, in particular carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), are tested as potential binding materials in graphitic anodes for lithium ion batteries. It is shown that a minimum content of a cellulose which gives acceptable anode properties (reversible capacity > 300 mA hg{sup -1} during the first 10 cycles, irreversible loss < 20%) is about 2 wt.%, which is less than in the case of conventional polymeric binders (5-10 wt.%). Kinetics of insertion-deinsertion and passivation processes seem not to be affected by the presence of cellulose. Explanation for the electrode failure at cellulose contents lower than 1 wt.% is given based on X-ray diffraction and microscopy investigations. Finally, the structure (distribution) of cellulose in the composite anode material is discussed and (indirectly) checked with a series of experiments. Most results are compared with the corresponding results obtained either ...

CERN Document Server

We present an analytical model for jets in Fanaroff & Riley Class I (FRI) radio galaxies, in which an initially laminar, relativistic flow is surrounded by a shear layer. We apply the appropriate conservation laws to constrain the jet parameters, starting the model where the radio emission is observed to brighten abruptly. We assume that the laminar flow fills the jet there and that pressure balance with the surroundings is maintained from that point outwards. Entrainment continuously injects new material into the jet and forms a shear layer, which contains material from both the environment and the laminar core. The shear layer expands rapidly with distance until finally the core disappears, and all of the material is mixed into the shear layer. Beyond this point, the shear layer expands in a cone and decelerates smoothly. We apply our model to the well-observed FRI source 3C31 and show that there ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Neutral Beam Test Facility (NBTF) to be realized in Padoa will test the Neutral Beam Injection (NBI), one of the Heating and Current Drive Systems foreseen for ITER. The NBI is based on the acceleration of hydrogen or deuterium negative ions up to 1 MeV. This work has been aimed at assessing the tritium release from the NBTF in order to provide data for the safety analysis. In particular, the diffusion of the tritium through the neutral beam target material (the CuCrZr alloy calorimeter panels) has been assessed by using literature data of the diffusion coefficient. The tritium generated inside the calorimeter panels moves into both the vacuum and water side: the tritium diffusion flux has been evaluated during the beam-on (200 deg. C) and the beam-off (20 deg. C) phases of the NBTF experiments consisting of an interim campaign and a final test. The penetration depth of the tritium through the 2 mm thick CuCrZr alloy ...

Science.gov (United States)

The Savannah River Site (SRS) is a 310-square-mile United States Department of Energy nuclear facility located along the Savannah River (SRS) near Aiken, South Carolina. Nuclear weapons material production began in the early 1950s, utilizing five production reactors. In the early 1990s all SRS production reactor operations were terminated. The first reactor closure end state declaration was recently institutionalized in a Comprehensive Environmental Response and Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) Early Action Record of Decision. The decision for the final closure of the 318,000 square foot 105-P Reactor was determined to be in situ decommissioning (ISD). ISD is an acceptable and cost effective alternative to off-site disposal for the reactor building, which will allow for consolidation of remedial action wastes generated from other cleanup activities within the P Area. ISD is considered protective by the regulators, U. S. Environmental ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

X-ray ablation of material from the first wall and other components of an ICF (Inertial Confinement Fusion) chamber is a major threat to the laser final optics. Material condensing on these optics after a shot may cause damage with subsequent laser shots. To ensure the successful operation of the ICF facility, removal rates must be predicted accurately. The goal for this dissertation is to develop an experimentally validated x-ray response model, with particular application to the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Accurate knowledge of the x-ray and debris emissions from ICF targets is a critical first step in the process of predicting the performance of the target chamber system. A number of 1-D numerical simulations of NIF targets have been run to characterize target output in terms of energy, angular distribution, spectrum, and pulse shape. Scaling of output characteristics with variations of both target yield and ...

Science.gov (United States)

Energetic ions interact with materials by collisions with the nuclei and electrons of the atoms that make up the material. In these collisions energy and momentum is transferred from the projectile particle which is a moving atom or ion, to the target particles (atomic nucleus or electron). Each collision leads to a slowing down of the moving projectile and also a deflection of the trajectory which gives rise to the term scattering which is often used synonymously to describe the energy transfer process. In this chapter, we introduce from an experimental viewpoint the underlying theory for interaction of ions for analysis and modification of nanometer scale materials. A more detailed theoretical overview of the topic can be found in the recent monographs by Sigmund. Detailed derivations of the formulae introduced will not be given here but can be found in standard texts that are indicated by references. The treatment here ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We have studied in detail the gamma radiation induced changes in the electrical properties of the (TeO_2)_0_._9 (In_2O_3)_0 _._1 thin films of different thicknesses, prepared by thermal evaporation in vacuum. The current-voltage characteristics for the as-deposited and exposed thin films were analysed to obtain current versus dose plots at different applied voltages. These plots clearly show that the current increases quite linearly with the radiation dose over a wide range and that the range of doses is higher for the thicker films. Beyond certain dose (a quantity dependent on the film thickness), however, the current has been observed to decrease. In order to understand the dose dependence of the current, we analysed the optical absorption spectra for the as-deposited and exposed thin films to obtain the dose dependences of the optical bandgap and energy width of band tails of the localized states. The increase of the current with the gamma radiation dose may be ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Polypeptides, copolymers of #alpha#-amino acids and #alpha#-hydroxy acids, could prove to be a valuable new class of synthetic biodegradable polymers. In this paper. steps in synthesis of poly (dl-lactide-co-3, 6-dimethylmorpholine-2,5-dione) from dl-lactide and dl-3,6-dimethylmorpholine-2,5-dione was explained. dl-Lactide was synthesized from lactic acid. In the reaction of 2-bromopropionyl chloride and dl-alanine, N-(2-bromopropionyl)-dl-alanine was prepared and this material was converted to its salt and finally this salt was converted to 3,6-dimethylmorpholine-2,5-dione in a sublime r. These two monomers, that is d l-lactide and dl-3,6-dimethylmorpholine-2,5-dione was polymerized by ring-opening polymerization. F T-IR, "1H NMR, "1"3C NMR Spectra were used for structure elucidation of all intermediate compounds and final product.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Artificial bone cements (BCs) based on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) powders and methyl methacrylate (MMA) liquid monomer also present in their formulation small amounts of other substances, including a chemical initiator compound and radiopaque agents. Because inadequate mixing of the recipe components during the manufacture of the bone cement may compromise the mechanical properties of the final pieces, new techniques to incorporate the fillers into the BC and their effect upon the mechanical properties of BC pieces were investigated in the present study. PMMA powder composites were produced in situ in the reaction vessel by addition of X-ray contrasts to the reacting MMA mixture. It is shown that this can lead to much better mechanical properties of test pieces, when compared to standard bone cement formulations, because enhanced dispersion of the radiopaque agents can be achieved. Moreover, it is shown that the addition of hydroxyapatite (HA) and acrylic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Phase 1 final report covers the work performed by Springborn Testing and Research, Inc., for the period October 1, 1997 to June 30, 1998 under the Department of Energy Cooperative Agreement Number DE-FC36-97GO10255, entitled Development of Flame Retardant PV Module Encapsulants. While use of roof-mounted arrays has always been an attractive means of deploying PV, only within recent years have such building integrated concepts (BIPV) found renewed interest among module makers and end-users. Prior to building integrated and rooftop applications, flammability requirements for modules have not been a great industry concern. However, with growing interest in BIPV and the requirement for building code requirements for commercial and industrial structures, flammability issues have become a barrier to entry for many module constructions into this potentially huge domestic market for PV. The overall goal of the 3 phase PV BONUS two project is to develop and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The development and improvement of materials plays a key role in energy technology, particularly in power plant technology, because materials are crucial to plant performance and power availability. This becomes particularly clear when one considers that modern power plants generate temperatures of up to 600 C and pressures of up to 230 bar in order to increase process efficiency, conserve resources and reduce CO{sub 2} emissions. Modern heat-resistant materials for power plant technology are customised materials which have been developed to meet the specific requirements of special applications. After the requirement profile has been determined the material is developed or optimised on the basis of previous experiences gained with materials in power plant technology. Basic heat-resistant materials are ferritic materials ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Atlantic Richfield Company, together with Bechtel Group, Inc. and Combustion Engineering, have conducted a study since August 1979 for the Electric Power Research Institute to: (1) develop guidelines for the electric utility industry to assess the technical and economic applicability of coal-oil mixtures (COM) to existing fossil fuel plants, and (2) assess the market potential and cost of preparation for a commercially produced COM fuel suitable for use by electric utility entities. This report is the compilation of work done for the second task. Results from Task 1 are reported separately. Reported here is a methodology for the estimation of coal-oil mixture pricing. Components included in the pricing estimate are raw materials costs, transportation and manufacturing cost components, with capital recovery treated according to both public (utility) and private financing guidelines. A detailed base case using a specific plant size, feedstock pricing, COM ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

As part of the general QC/QA management of the k_0-standardization, three types of 'SMELS' (synthetic multi-element standards) are being developed to check the performance of k_0-NAA when implemented in a laboratory. Phenol-formaldehyde resin is proposed in this paper as the matrix of choice. Based on previous work, this material could be prepared with sufficient purity so as to make interferences with the spiking elements negligible. The matrix was found to be adequately resistant towards high neutron flux irradiation. A selection was made of compounds, soluble in ethyl alcohol, for spiking the prepolymer ethanolic solution with the elements of interest. Finally, some prototypes were prepared and a satisfactory homogeneity of the spiked elements was found for 50 mg sample intake.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The texture influence on tensile tests of AZ31, one of the common Mg alloys, has been studied. Starting material was a rectangular extruded bar, which has a strong texture. Due to the preparation of three tensile samples with 0 , 45 , 90 to the extrusion direction, the initial bar texture influences differently on the mechanical behaviour under tensile load. This results in a variation of the yield strength (90 MPa and 175 MPa) the ultimate tensile strength (250 MPa - 278 MPa) and the final texture. Experimental texture analysis was completed by texture simulations using the VPSC-model (visco plastic self-consistent). The good agreement between experimental and simulated pole figures allows the determination of the activated deformation modes related to the initial texture. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Surveillance and maintenance (S & M) of 75 sites were conductd by the Remedial Action Section for the Environmental Restoration Program for surplus facilities and sites contaminated with radioactive materials and/or hazardous chemicals. S & M activities on these sites were conducted from the end of their operating life until final facility disposal or site stabilization. The objectives of the Waste Area Grouping S & M Program are met by maintaining a program of routine S & M as well as by implementing interim corrective maintenance when deemed necessary as a result of site surveillance. This report briefly presents this program`s activities and includes tables indicating tank levels and dry well data for FY 1991.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Motivated by the discovery of superconductivity in alkali and alkaline earth fullerides, this program was undertaken both to understand the nature of and expand the range of materials demonstrating superconductivity. The first approach involved attempts to modify the fullerene cage by incorporating heteroatoms in the structure and the preparation and photophysical properties of nitrogen and sulfur doped fullerenes were studied in detail. The second approach involved examining the stoichiometry and effect of preparative conditions on the behavior of alkali, alkaline earth, lanthanide and mixed ion fullerides. In particular, the authors have elaborated on a technique for making such salts using liquid ammonia or aliphatic amines as solvents. Thirdly, modeling studies were undertaken to predict the properties of heterohedral fullerines and metal - C60 complexes, and theoretical guidelines were developed for understanding the reactivity of the fullerene cage to common ...

Science.gov (United States)

We have obtained convincing evidence for localization of the optical electron on a single-ring fragment of a chelated bipyridine-like'' ligand (ie., pyridylpyrazine or 4-Methyl-bipyridine). In addition we have completed studies of Ru(bipyrazine){sub 3}{sup 2+} in aqueous sulfuric acid (0--98% by weight) and find clear evidence for sequential addition of six-protons to the six peripheral nitrogen atoms. Studies of zeolite-entrapped complexes are continuing and a series of homo- and heteroleptic complexes have been prepared and characterized. Finally, the synthesis of zeolite-entrapped metallophthalocyanines has now been developed and the copper and cobalt analogues synthesized. The characterization of these materials is now in progress.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The goal of this three-year project was to improve the production systems in use by steel foundries in the United States. Improvements in the production systems result in less rework, less scrap, and less material handling, all of which would significantly reduce the energy demands of the process. Furthermore, these improvements would allow the companies to be more competitive, more responsive to customers' needs, deliver products with less lead time and require less capital. The ultimate result is a stronger domestic steel casting industry, which uses less energy. A major portion of this research involved the deployment of student researchers at steel foundries, to study their production systems and collect data.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Solar cells and organic electronic devices require an encapsulation to ensure sufficient lifetime. Key parameters of the encapsulation are permeation barrier, UV stability, temperature stability, optical transmission spectra and mechanical stability. The requirements depend very much on the specific application. Many work groups suggest multilayer stacks to meet the permeation requirements. In this paper the permeation barrier properties of the different constituents of such a multilayer stack are characterized. Different layer materials are compared regarding their water vapour and oxygen permeability as well as the influence of process parameters is examined. Finally temperature dependent permeation measurements are used to characterize the permeation mechanisms in the different constituents of the multilayer barrier.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fly ash from Lagisza power station with addition of kaolin and calculated amount of carbon was reacted in flowing nitrogen at 1520"oC in order to obtain #beta#-sialon. The resulted powder was sintered with and without Y_2O_3 addition. Examinations show that it is possible to sinter that material without any sintering additives, however additive of Y_2O_3 decreases sintering temperature of about 100"oC. Sintering temperature influences the final mechanical properties like: flexural strength, microhardness, Young elastic modulus (E) and fracture toughness (K_I_c). (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Focussed ion beam (FIB) processing has been applied to the fabrication of novel InP-based cleaved coupled cavity (CCC) quantum cascade lasers (QCL). Gas assisted etching using XeF{sub 2} has been shown to significantly reduce the redeposition of sputtered material onto the mirror surfaces during final milling. For the unprocessed laser a broad spread of lasing peaks are observed between 9.72{mu}m to 9.78{mu}m at a current of 380mA (1kA/cm{sup -2}). After FIB processing, substantial side mode suppression is observed on applying a current of 20mA (100A/cm{sup -2}) to the short section and the main lasing peak is observed at 9.77{mu}m.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) is a liquid-metal-cooled fast reactor, which is designed to test a variety of different structural and fuel materials. A safety analysis is performed for each experiment that is irradiated in FFTF. The FFTF final safety analysis report (FSAR) assumed that all driver fuel assemblies would maintain cladding integrity during normal operations and all design transients. Maintenance of cladding integrity retains three barriers to any fission gas release to the public and also prevents any potential contact between the fuel and coolant. Experiments are, in general, expected to meet the same criterion. Selected experiments can, however, be classified as run-to-cladding-breach experiments (RTCB). The purpose of this paper is to describe alternative acceptance criteria for RTCB experiments that they feel provide protection equivalent to the maintenance of cladding integrity.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper reports the results of the studies performed at the Electric Research Center of ENEL (Italian National Electricity Board) in the field of compacting high voltage transmission lines, from the point of view of dielectric and corona noise constraints. The results of switching impulse withstand voltage tests, performed on typical compact line insulation configurations, are given and optimization criteria of such insulation configurations in relation to switching impulse are outlined. The constraints regarding surface withstand voltage in polluted conditions of the above insulations are analyzed and the possibility of reducing their dimensions by using unconventional insulation materials is considered. Finally, evaluations of corona noise in the case of optimization of the line encumbrance from the point of view of dielectric constraints are given.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The research project aimed at the selection or development of wear-reducing measures for submerged components of hydroelectric power plants. This comprised the optimisation of hydraulic profiles as well as materials testing for abrasion and cavitation. Another field of research was the development of appropriate application processes. (orig.) [German] Das Hauptziel des Forschungsvorhabens bestand in der Auswahl bzw. Entwicklung geeigneter Schutzmassnahmen zur Verschleissminderung an wasserberuehrten Komponenten von Wasserkraftanlagen. Diesem Ziel untergeordnet waren neben der Optimierung hydraulischer Profile auch Materialuntersuchungen hinsichtlich Verschleissbestaendigkeit gegenueber Abrasion und Kavitation. Ebenso war die Entwicklung geeigneter Applikationsprozesse ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Aufgabenstellung. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The General-Purpose Heat Source (GPHS), an improved radioisotope heat source, employs a unique thermal insulation material, carbon-bonded carbon fiber (CBCF), to protect the fuel capsule and to help achieve the highest possible specific power. The CBCF insulation is made from chopped rayon fiber about 10 ..mu..m in diameter and 250 ..mu..m long, which is carbonized and bonded with phenolic resin particles. The CBCF shapes, both tubes and plates, are formed in a multiple molding facility by vacuum molding a water slurry of the carbonized chopped-rayon fiber (54 wt %) and phenolic resin (46 wt %). The molded shapes are subsequently dried and cured. Final carbonization of the resin is at 1600/sup 0/C. Machining to close tolerances (+-0.08 mm) is accomplished by conventional tooling and fixturing. The resulting material is an excellent lightweight insulation with a nominal density of 0.2 Mg/m/sup 3/ and a thermal conductivity ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This final report for the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is one of a series of reports concerning municipal development in various cities in Switzerland. The four city districts involved include Basel (Gundeldinger Feld), Lausanne (Bellevaux), Lucerne (Basel-/Bernstrasse) and Zurich (Werdwies). This paper takes a look at aspects of building ecology. In the four areas, the following building types and projects were examined with respect to their ecology: Basel: conversion of commercial premises to a community centre, Lausanne and Lucerne: Enhancement of residential areas, Zurich: a new residential building. Criteria examined include general building ecology, building materials, raw materials, toxic substances, recycling, maintenance and deconstruction, energy for heating and hot water, grey energy, electricity, ground usage, water, wastes and public infrastructure. Knowledge gained along with questions and problems ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The PuO/sub 2/ cask or SP 5320-2 and 3 cask is designed for surface shipment of americium or plutonium. The cask design was physically tested to demonstrate that it met the criteria specified in US ERDA Manual Chapter 0529, and Chapter I, Interstate Commerce Commission. The package has been assessed for transport of up to 357 grams of plutonium (403 grams PuO/sub 2/ powder) and up to 176 grams of americium (200 grams AmO/sub 2/ powder), having a maximum decay heat of 203 watts. Criticality evaluation alone would allow the shipment as Fissile Class II but the radiation level of the cask, measured at the time of shipment, may exceed 50 mrem/h at the surface and require shipment as Fissile Class III. Sample calculations address only the more restrictive of the two materials, which in most cases is /sup 238/PuO/sub 2/.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is the final report of a two-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). This project has examined the fundamental chemistry of plutonium that affects the integration of hydrothermal technology into nuclear materials processing operations. Chemical reactions in high temperature water allow new avenues for waste treatment and radionuclide separation.Successful implementation of hydrothermal technology offers the potential to effective treat many types of radioactive waste, reduce the storage hazards and disposal costs, and minimize the generation of secondary waste streams. The focus has been on the chemistry of plutonium(VI) in solution with carbonate since these are expected to be important species in the effluent from hydrothermal oxidation of Pu-containing organic wastes. The authors investigated the structure, solubility, and stability of the key plutonium complexes. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of this text is to train engineers and technologists not just to understand corrosion but to control it. Materials selection, coatings, chemical inhibitors, cathodic and anodic protection, and equipment design are covered in separate chapters. High-temperature oxidation is discussed in the final two chapters ne on oxidation theory and one on controlling oxidation by alloying and with coatings. This book treats corrosion and high-temperature oxidation separately. Corrosion is divided into three groups: (1) chemical dissolution including uniform attack, (2) electrochemical corrosion from either metallurgical or environmental cells, and (3) stress-assisted corrosion. Corrosion is logically grouped according to mechanisms rather than arbitrarily separated into different types of corrosion as if they were unrelated. For those university students and industry personnel who approach corrosion theory very hesitantly, this text will present ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The aim was to gain experience on how to produce Alkali Metal Thermo-Electric-Converter (AMTEC) cells, for the demonstration of their principles and potentials, as a basis for future commercialization. These cells should be able to present an efficient and direct conversion of thermal energy to electric energy. The system is based on an electro-chemical concentration cell built around a {beta}`` aluminium oxide membrane that separates the two chambers. This material is a good conductor of sodium and a bad conductor of electrons, and it is this property which is taken advantage of. In the two chambers of the cell is found saturated sodium vapour at two temperatures. The motive power is the expansion over the membrane where the sodium ions are transported through it whilst the electrons are forced through the outer cycle. This concept is described in detail in addition to the choice of materials, performance testing and results. It was found ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The US Department of Energy (DOE) is responsible for cleanup activities at the Weldon Spring site in St. Charles County, Missouri. The site consists of a chemical plant area and a noncontiguous limestone quarry; both areas are radioactively and chemically contaminated as a result of past processing and disposal activities. Explosives were produced by the US Army at the chemical plant in the 1940s, and uranium and thorium materials were processed by DOE`s predecessor agency in the 1950s and 1960s. During that time, various wastes were disposed of at both areas of the site. The DOE is conducting cleanup activities at the site under its Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Program. The integrated remedial investigation/feasibility study-environmental impact statement (RI/FS-EIS) documents for the chemical plant area were issued to the public in November 1992 as the draft RI/FS-EIS. (The CERCLA RI/FS is considered final when issued to the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The ''Enabling & Information Technology To Increase RAM for Advanced Powerplants'' program, by DOE request, was re-directed, de-scoped to two tasks, shortened to a 2-year period of performance, and refocused to develop, validate and accelerate the commercial use of enabling materials technologies and sensors for coal/IGCC powerplants. The new program was re-titled ''Enabling Technology for Monitoring & Predicting Gas Turbine Health & Performance in IGCC Powerplants''. This final report summarizes the work accomplished from March 1, 2003 to March 31, 2004 on the four original tasks, and the work accomplished from April 1, 2004 to July 30, 2005 on the two re-directed tasks. The program Tasks are summarized below: Task 1--IGCC Environmental Impact on high Temperature Materials: The first task was refocused to address IGCC environmental impacts ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The preparation and performance of membranes for application to hydrogen separation from coal-derived gas is described. The membrane material investigated was dense amorphous silica deposited on a suitable support by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Two types of support materials were pursued. One type consisted of a two-layer composite, zeolite silicalite/{alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, in the form of tubes approximately 0.7 cm in diameter. The other type was porous glass tubes of diameter below 0.2 cm. The first type of support was prepared starting from {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} tubes of 1{micro}m mean pore diameter and growing by hydrothermal reaction a zeolite silicalite layer inside the pores of the alumina at the OD side. After calcination to remove the organic template used in the hydrothermal reaction, CVD was carried out to deposit the final silica layer. CVD was carried out by alternating exposure of the surface with ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Striking differences in differential reflectance and carrier relaxation in In0.4Ga0.6As and In0.4Ga0.6As0.98N0.02 single quantum wells (SQWs) were studied using ultrafast time-resolved photoreflectance. Even with extremely thin SQW of only 60 A within 3000 A wide GaAs confining layers, negative and positive differential reflectance was observed for the excitation photon energy far above the bandgaps at 820 and 880 nm for both samples. Due to absorption by the GaAs confining layer, the peak differential reflectance pumped at 820 nm is an order of magnitude larger than that pumped at 880 nm; and it is larger for InGaAs SQWs than for InGaAsN SQWs. The shorter carrier lifetimes of these samples result from carrier-carrier scattering as pumped at both wavelengths. The longer carrier lifetime as pumped at 880 nm is due to hot phonon decay in InGaAs but may be due to stimulated emission in InGaAsN. The results reveal that the carrier dynamics is strongly affected by N ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We show that the morphology and the luminescence properties of ZnO layers produced by magnetron sputtering can be controlled by technological parameters of sputtering, particularly by the ratio of argon to oxygen gases in the gas flow during the growth process. Smooth and flat layers were produced with a high Ar/O ratio, while porous layers with various morphologies were obtained with a low Ar/O ratio. The layers produced with O/Ar ration equal to 10 exhibit extremely high near-bandgap luminescence intensity even higher in comparison with bulk ZnO single crystals. The free carrier density estimated from the analysis of photoluminescence spectra is also very high in these samples suggesting that these technological conditions promote both optical and electrical activation of the doping Al impurity. The samples grown with high Ar/O ratios exhibit strong visible emission which is controlled by the technological conditions.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The effect of molybdenum on the electronic structure of the passive films formed on ferritic (Fe-Cr and Fe-Cr-Mo) stainless steels is examined by capacitance and photoelectrochemical measurements. The capacitance study is supported by a mathematical analysis of the Schottky barrier developed at the semiconductor-electrolyte interface in the case of a semiconductor with multiple bulk electronic states in the bandgap. The numerical simulations, based on the more general Mott-Schottky relation proposed, are in good agreement with the experimental results. It can be concluded that the capacitance behavior of the passive films is related to the contributions of a shallow donor level very close to the conduction band and a deep donor level at about 0.4 eV below the conduction band. The addition of molybdenum decreases the donor density of the deep level. Photoeffects observed for subbandgap photon energies reveal that this deep donor level behaves like a trapping ...

CERN Document Server

The behavior of silver and lead azides (scaly and threadlike crystals, and compacted powders) in initiation of explosive decomposition by laser pulsed radiation has been investigated. Initiation energy thresholds in irradiation at wavelengths of 1064 nm, 532 nm, 354.7 nm, 266 nm corresponding to four laser radiation harmonics have been measured. Samples both uncovered and covered with a transparent dielectric (a quartz plate) with the compressive force of up to 0.5GPa were initiated. In the transparent spectral region (the first and second laser harmonics) of the heavy metal azide matrix the effect of covering the sample surface with a plate on initiation energy threshold was insignificant, whereas, in the region of bandgap absorption (the fourth harmonic) strong dependence of the initiation threshold on whether the surface under irradiation is uncovered or covered. The results obtained have been considered with the account of the influence of the transparent plate ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The formation and breakdown of the passive films on stainless steels are mainly controlled by ionic and electronic transport processes. Both these processes are in part controlled by the electronic properties of the oxide film. Consequently, it is vital to gain a detailed perception of the electronic properties of the passive films together with structural and compositional information for a comprehensive understanding of mechanisms behind passivity and localised corrosion. As a step towards this goal the passive films formed on two main austenitic stainless steels AISI 316L and AISI 304L in borate solution were characterised by in situ Raman spectroscopy and photocurrent spectroscopy coupled with electrochemical measurements. This revealed the formation of an Fe-Cr spinel as the dominant constituent in the passive films with more Cr enrichment in the oxide film on 316L than that of 304L. Bandgap readings and semiconductivities of the two stainless steels suggested ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The electrochemical behaviour of passive films formed on one austenitic stainless steel (AISI 304) and one ferritic stainless steel (AISI 446) in solutions with pH between 0.6 and 8.4 was studied by capacitance measurements and photocurrent spectroscopy. Compositional characterization of the passive films was done by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The capacitance increases with decreasing pH. Doping densities evaluated from Mott-Schottky plots are in the range 2-6 x 10"2"0 cm"-"3 and increased with the pH in the neutral/alkaline range while in pH 0.6, values above 10"2"1 cm"-"3 were found. The bandgap energy indicates two transitions, at 2.5-2.8 and 3.2 eV. The analytical data reveal that, as the pH increased, the films become enriched in Fe(II) and Fe(III), whereas the Cr(III) gradually decreases. The films formed at very low pH had a behaviour that contrasts with that of the films formed in the neutral/alkaline media. The films are described by a bilayer ...

CERN Document Server

Materials science and technology

Science.gov (United States)

... Materials (PREM) Synopsis of Program: The objective of PREM is to enhance diversity in materials ... careers in materials research. The Partnerships for Research and Education in Materials (PREM ...

Science.gov (United States)

... centers in materials research. MRSECs address fundamental materials research topics of intellectual ... in materials research. II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION MRSECs are supported by NSF to undertake materials ...

Science.gov (United States)

... Instrumentation for Materials Research (IMR) Division of Materials Research Synopsis of Program ... for Materials Research (IMR) program in the Division of Materials Research (DMR) is designed to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The primary objective of this task was to perform a variability study of the high activity waste (HAW) acidic feed to determine the impact of feed variability on the quality of the final grout and on the mixability of the salt solution into the dry powders. The HAW acidic feeds were processed through the neutralization/pH process, targeting a final pH of 12. These fluids were then blended with the dry materials to make the final waste forms. A secondary objective was to determine if elemental substitution for cost prohibitive or toxic elements in the simulant affects the mixing response, thus providing a more economical simulant for use in full scale tests. Though not an objective, the HAW simulant used in the full scale tests was also tested and compared to the results from this task. A statistically designed test matrix was developed based on the maximum molarity inputs used to make the acidic ...

Wastenet

Waste Technology and Innovation Study Final Report ...Waste Technology and Innovation Study Final Report 21/18569/150554 ...Survey of waste and resource recovery related technology and innovation, including products and product uses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text of publication follows: As SiCf/SiC composites are very low activation materials, their use as structural material for the reactor blanket and first wall components appears essential to demonstrate the potential of D-T fusion power reactor. Positive features of SiCf/SiC are their high performances at elevated operating temperature and the ability to produce a specific component. Critical issues of SiCf/SiC are the mechanical properties, radiation stability and, with regard to technological issues, their hermeticity and joining processes. Improvement of joining processes for SiC/SiC components is also needed. Recently, several blanket designs have been studied: the TAURO blanket concept in the European Union, the ARIESAT concept in the US and the DREAM concept in Japan. In those reactors, hermetic SiCf/SiC or self-sealing coatings are mandatory. The basic idea of self sealing concept is to manufacture a coating with specific ...

Science.gov (United States)

The (Al/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/)/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P material system, lattice matched to GaAs substrates, is useful for visible laser diodes. Here, low pressure organometallic vapor phase epitaxial growth of Ga/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P and (Al/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/)/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P is examined. Epitaxial layers of bulk materials are characterized using photoluminescence, electroreflectance, Raman scattering spectroscopy, and surface morphology studies to determine lattice match and optimum growth conditions. Lattice matching at the growth temperature produces featureless growth surfaces, while lattice matching at room temperatures results in minimum photoluminescence linewidth but cracked surface due to tensile strain during growth. Raman scattering spectra of the quaternary reveal a three-mode structure, with spectral peaks due to GaP-like, in P-like, and AIP-like LO phonons. Additionally, (Al/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/)/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P/Ga/sub 0.5/In/sub ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper describes the use of numerical analysis for studying natural convection cooling systems for long term storage of heat producing radioactive materials, including special nuclear materials and nuclear waste. The paper explains the major design philosophy, and shares the experiences of numerical modeling. The strategy of storing radioactive material is to immobilize nuclear high-level waste by a vitrification process, convertion it into borosilicate glass, and cast the glass into stainless steel canisters. These canisters are seal welded, decontaminated, inspected, and temporarily stored in an underground vault until they can be sent to a geologic repository for permanent storage. These canisters generate heat by nuclear decay of radioactive isotopes. The function of the storage facility ventilation system is to ensure that the glass centerline temperature does not exceed the glass transition temperature during ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A geochemical survey to assess and evaluate the Devonian oil shale resources of north Alabama, northwest Georgia, and south-central Tennessee has been performed. Information is provided on the location and extent of the more favorable kerogen-bearing Devonian shale, oil and uranium content of the shale, trace metal and standard rock analyses for shale, data on the physical properties of the shale rock, mineralogy of the shale, chemical properties of the oil, and other pertinent data deemed necessary for resource development. The results indicate that the oil yield from areas underlain by Chattanooga Shale can be divided into areas having greater than 7 g/t and areas having less than 7 g/t. In general, the oil yield by Fischer assay of samples from the folded Appalachian Valley and Ridge and the Appalachian Plateaus provinces is poor, all having less than 5 g/t and most samples closer to 0 g/t. The extreme variance of Fischer assay values in the Chattanooga Shale could be the result of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Numerical simulations are used to predict the migration of radionuclides from the disposal units at Material Disposal Area G through the vadose zone and into the main aquifer in support of a radiological performance assessment and composite analysis for the site. The calculations are performed with the finite element code, FEHM. The transport of nuclides through the vadose zone is computed using a three-dimensional model that describes the complex mesa top geology of the site. The model incorporates the positions and inventories of thirty-four disposal pits and four shaft fields located at Area G as well as those of proposed future pits and shafts. Only three nuclides, C-14, Tc-99, and I-129, proved to be of concern for the groundwater pathway over a 10,000-year period. The spatial and temporal flux of these three nuclides from the vadose zone is applied as a source term for the three-dimensional saturated zone model of the main aquifer that underlies the site. The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This thesis is concerned with the optimization and development of the production of nanofocusing refractive X-ray lenses. These optics made of either silicon or diamond are well-suited for high resolution X-ray microscopy. The goal of this work is the design of a reproducible manufacturing process which allows the production of silicon lenses with high precision, high quality and high piece number. Furthermore a process for the production of diamond lenses is to be developed and established. In this work, the theoretical basics of X-rays and their interaction with matter are described. Especially, aspects of synchrotron radiation are emphasized. Important in X-ray microscopy are the different optics. The details, advantages and disadvantages, in particular those of refractive lenses are given. To achieve small X-ray beams well beyond the 100 nm range a small focal length is required. This is achieved in refractive lenses by moving to a compact lens design where several single lenses ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This fourteenth quarterly technical progress report of the MHD Integrated Topping Cycle Project presents the accomplishments during the period November 1, 1990 to January 31, 1991. Testing of the High Pressure Cooling Subsystem electrical isolator was completed. The PEEK material successfully passed the high temperature, high pressure duration tests (50 hours). The Combustion Subsystem drawings were CADAM released. The procurement process is in progress. An equipment specification and RFP were prepared for the new Low Pressure Cooling System (LPCS) and released for quotation. Work has been conducted on confirmation tests leading to final gas-side designs and studies to assist in channel fabrication.The final cathode gas-side design and the proposed gas-side designs of the anode and sidewall are presented. Anode confirmation tests and related analyses of anode wear mechanisms used in the selection of the proposed anode ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The most important factor in assessing radiologic risk is ensuring scientific means for evaluation of the radioactive release impact upon humans and organisms. To evaluate quantitatively this impact not only knowledge of radioactivity distribution in these dynamical systems is necessary but also understanding the transfer mechanisms between ecosystem components is needed. Thus a complete radioecologic study appear to be very complex and needs defining the source term, dynamic description of radionuclides behavior in the ecosystem, estimation of radiation doses in the major components of the ecosystem and finally the effects of radiation doses upon different parts of the systems. A diagram of the steps implied in evaluation of the effects due to radioactive effluent release in the environment is presented and discussed. The following steps are described: - identification of radioactive sources, as well as their input rate. Presence of noxious ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document contains US patents on terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) power applications, including systems, components, and materials, as well as manufacturing and support functions. The patent entries in this document were issued from 1988 through 1990. The entries were located by searching USPA, the data base of the US Patent Office. The final search retrieved all patents under the class Batteries, Thermoelectric and Photoelectric'' and the subclasses Photoelectric,'' Testing,'' and Applications.'' The search also located patents that contained the words photovoltaic(s)'' or solar cell(s)'' and their derivatives. A manual search of the patents in the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) patent file augmented the data base search. After the initial list was compiled, most of the patents on the following subjects were excluded: space ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One of the aims of SILMU, the Finnish Research Programme for Climate Change, was to produce information for decision-makers concerning climate change and its mitigation. One integrative project for this purpose was PAATE, an inquiry into the present state and future possibilities of interaction between researchers and decision-makers. The aims of the PAATE project can be summarised as follows: (1) to conduct a survey of the state of climate change research and climate policy in Finland, (2) to develop the interaction between climate research, policy makers and different societal organisations, (3) to acquire methodological experiences on the realisation of projects of this type, (4) to provide material for the final report of the SILMU project and for further action, and (5) to promote the rational development of climate policy. Methodologically, the PAATE project used the Delphi technique employed chiefly in futurological research. A method ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We obtained the ratios of "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs in spent PWR fuels with gamma scanning equipment of irradiated material examination facility. The fuel segments, of which the burn-up is about 40 GWD/MTU and its cooling time is 8.4 years, are prepared in Post Irradiated Examination Facility and transported to IMEF. By considering of multi-peaks of "1"3"4Cs and "1"5"4Eu, we obtained the relative efficiency of the gamma scanning system as a function of energy. And finally we obtained the number ratios of radioactive nuclides in 72 fuel pellets, radioactive "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs. (author). 4 refs., 27 tabs., 28 figs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), working with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), performed analyses to predict the response of various spent fuel transportation cask designs when exposed to a fire similar to that which occurred in the Howard Street railroad tunnel in downtown Baltimore, Maryland on July 18, 2001. The thermal performance of three different spent fuel cask designs (HOLTEC HI-STAR 100, TransNuclear TN-68, and NAC-LWT) was evaluated with the ANSYSR and COBRA-SFS analysis codes, utilizing boundary conditions for the tunnel fire obtained using NIST's Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) code. NRC Staff evaluated the potential for a release of radioactive material from each of the three transportation casks analyzed for the Baltimore tunnel fire scenario. The results of these analyses are described in detail in Spent Fuel ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We provide a numerically efficient procedure to perform LDA+Hubbard I calculations including self-consistency over the charge density in the FP-LAPW basis. The method is applied to Pu, Am, and PuAm and PuCe alloys. Our results for valence photoemission spectra (PES) agree with experimental data and with previous LDA+DMFT calculations. Analysis of the J=5/2 and J=7/2 contributions to the f-occupation supports the intermediate-coupling picture of f-states in heavy actinides. The electronic specific heat coefficient is calculated for PuAm and PuCe alloys in reasonable agreement with recent experiments. We show that Pu atoms keep their mixed-valence character in these alloys. Next, we study electronic and spectral properties of Pu-based superconductor PuCoGa_5 and obtain good agreement with experimental PES. Finally, we analyze surface effects. In Pu monolayer, we find substantial modification of PES due to 5f-electron localization consistent with experimental ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text.Increased environmental concerns and the emphasis on material and energy recovery are gradually changing the orientation of municipal solid waste (MSW) management and planning. In this context, the application of optimization techniques have been introduced to design the least cost solid waste management systems, considering the variety of management processes (recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, incineration and land filling) and the existence of uncertainties associated with the number of system components and their interrelations. This study presents a model that was developed and applied to serve as a solid socio-economic and environmental considerations. The model accounts for solid waste generation rates, composition, collection, treatment, disposal as well as potential environmental impacts of various MSW management techniques. The model follows a linear programming formulation with the framework of dynamic optimization. The model can serve ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The properties of wood plastic composites (WPC) based on Pinus Radiata D. Don impregnated with methylmethacrylate and subsequently polymerized with gamma radiation were studied. Different systems of impregnation were utilized, in order to obtain partial and shell loads. The minimum irradiation dose uses was 16 kGy. The following tests were made to the material: static bending, compression strenght parallel to grain, hardness, sheer strength, toughness, water absorption, dimensional stability and flame propagation index. To evaluate the testing, the results of the samples were separated according final density in the ranges: R_1 = 429-483 kg/m3 (without treatment); R_2 = 500-650 kg/m3 and R3 = 651-850 kg/m3. In general, the best results were obtained for samples of high density. The most important results were achieved for dimensional stability, water absorption and hardness. (Author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The preparation of wood-plastic combinations (WPC) using combined methods for curing intermediate products and final products is described. In the first step, impregnated wood was irradiated using doses of 1 to 10 kGy in the presence of chemical initiators of polymerization. Thereafter, curing of this partly cured impregnating mixture was accomplished in the wood at elevated temperatures with the aid of chemical initiators of polymerization. Impregnation mixtures based on unsaturated polyester resins and methyl methacrylate, and the wood species European Beech (Fagus silvatica) and Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa) were used. The results indicate that this method of preparing WPC allows substantially lower radiation doses to be used, i.e., doses in the range of 1 to 2.5 kGy. These doses gelatinate the impregnation mixture in the wood so that the subsequent curing by chemical polymerization initiators proceeds without the impregnation mixture flowing out of the wood, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) previously known as the Plutonium Process and Storage Facility, or Z-Plant, was built and put into operation in 1949. Since 1949 PFP has been used for various processing missions, including plutonium purification, oxide production, metal production, parts fabrication, plutonium recovery, and the recovery of americium (Am-241). The PFP has also been used for receipt and large scale storage of plutonium scrap and product materials. The PFP Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) was prepared by WHC to document the hazards associated with the facility, present safety analyses of potential accident scenarios, and demonstrate the adequacy of safety class structures, systems, and components (SSCs) and operational safety requirements (OSRs) necessary to eliminate, control, or mitigate the identified hazards. Documented in this Safety Evaluation Report (SER) is DOE`s independent review and evaluation of the PFP FSAR and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is a numerical verification of two groups of pipe whip tests sponsored or cosponsored by EPRI. Experimental data of the two pipe whip tests, one by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and by FRAMATOME/CEA, were provided by EPRI. A nonlinear finite element code, ABAQUS-EPGEN, developed under partial sponsorship by EPRI was used for modeling the pipe whip tests. Beam elements together with an equivalent nonlinear spring element or a partial shell mesh were used to model pipes and elbow in the pipe whip tests. Material nonlinearity due to plasticity, strain rate effects, and temperature, as well as geometric nonlinearity due to large rotation and boundary conditions were included in the study. Effects of strain rate and modeling techniques were assessed. Results by current industry approach were also included as a reference solution. This report can be used as a guideline for numerical simulation of pipe whip phenomena. 74 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In 1976, the US Department of Energy and New York State - ERDA granted a contract for the development of a +-600 kV dc underground transmission cable system looking to inevitable future requirements in the US for economic, high-capacity, long-distance underground transmission linking remote generating stations to metropolitan load centers. This project was comprehensive and dealt with three separate system components, i.e., cable, splice, and terminals. In each instance, for each component, development required an intensive R and D effort, focused on the following categories: insulating materials, model testing, design of full-scale prototype, manufacturer of prototype, and laboratory development testing. Insulating papers and oils were selected, and model studies performed, for both self-contained type and pipe type oil-filled cables. However, only the pipe cable design was finally designated for full-size cable manufacture and EHV laboratory ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The high insulating strength of certain gases, such as sulfur hexafluoride, when used at high pressure, suggests that there may be advantages to compressed gases as the insulating fluid in power transformers. However, simply exchanging the oil for compressed gas in an otherwise conventional transformer design will not yield a significant overall advantage. Compressed gases present the engineer with properties which are quite different from mineral oil. If gases are to be used as the major insulating fluid in power transformers, then virtually all aspects of the insulation and cooling of the apparatus must be reconsidered, affording an opportunity to introduce new design concepts, new materials, and new construction techniques. In this program, the feasibility of using the following principal design concepts has been explored: sheet conductors for the windings; a system of sealed, self-contained, annular cooling ducts containing circulating cooling fluid to cool the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An Allis-Chalmers, Model 2900, turbocharged diesel engine was converted to a dual-fuel engine in which ethyl alcohol was fumigated between the turbocharger and the intake manifold, and the diesel fuel was injected normally at a reduced rate. Tests were performed to determine if crankcase oil dilution that had occurred was caused by the following independent parameters: proof of the ethyl alcohol, crankcase oil temperature, engine load at maximum torque speed, and percentage of total energy in the form of ethyl alcohol. Engine tests were steady state for six hours, after which the crankcase oil was sampled for American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) laboratory tests for determination of flash points and fire points, water by centrifuge, water by distillation, and viscosity at room temperature. Results indicate a decrease in thermal efficiency and an increase in exhaust carbon monoxide as the percentage of total energy as alcohol is increased. Additional ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present paper deals with the conversion of solar energy in a gas turbine plant with a parabolic dish collector. Particular consideration is devoted to the thermodynamic and mechanical design and partload behavior of the receiver. The incident sunlight is focussed by the parabolic dish and then beamed into the cavity receiver. Here the working medium of the gas turbine flows through tubes and is heated up to the receiver outlet temperature. The task of the receiver is to transfer the radiated energy as efficiently as possible to the working medium. Furthermore the required heating surface should be small as possible i.e. optimum use must be made of the tube material with respect to its state of stress. It is shown which geometric and thermodynamic plant parameters influence these two design criteria. An optimum receiver design is presented on the basis of the results thus obtained. Finally, the variations in receiver efficiency and tube ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The major driver to enhance the efficiency of the simple gas turbine cycle has been the increase in process conditions through advancements in materials and cooling methods. Thermodynamic cycle developments or cycle integration are among the possible ways to further enhance performance. The current paper presents the possibilities and advantages from the LOTHECO natural gas-fired combined cycle concept. In the LOTHECO cycle, low-temperature waste heat or solar heat is used for the evaporation of injected water droplets in the compressed air entering the gas turbine's combustion chamber. Following a description of this innovative cycle, its advantages are demonstrated by comparison between different gas turbine power generation systems for small and large-scale applications, including thermodynamic and economic analysis. A commercial gas turbine (ALSTOM GT10C) has been selected and computed with the heat mass balance program ENBIPRO. The results from the energy ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This 4.5-year project consisted of routine analytical support to DOE`s direct liquefaction process development effort (the Base Program), and an extensive effort to develop, demonstate, and apply new analytical methods for the characterization of liquefaction process streams (the Participants Program). The objective of the Base Program was to support the on-going DOE direct coal liquefaction process development program. Feed, process, and product samples were used to assess process operations, product quality, and the effects of process variables, and to direct future testing. The primary objective of the Participants Program was to identify and demonstrate analytical methods for use in support of liquefaction process develpment, and in so doing, provide a bridge between process design, development, and operation and analytical chemistry. To achieve this direct coal liquefaction-derived materials. CONSOL made an evaluation of each analytical technique. During the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Purpose: To describe CT appearances in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP) 20 years after bone graft surgery. Material and Methods: Eighteen consecutive patients with unilateral CLP were examined. All patients had been treated with primary closure, both in infancy and early childhood, supplemented with bone grafting at the age of around 10 years. The CT examination of the upper jaw included a dental CT program. The CT appearances of the cleft side were compared with those of the untreated non-cleft side. Results: Abnormal CT appearances included skew nasal aperture (n=17), nasal septal deviation (n=17), low floor of nasal aperture (n=15) at or towards the cleft side, and deviation of anterior nasal spine towards the non-cleft side (n=18). The posterior part of the bone cleft was visible in all patients, and the dental arch was V-shaped in 8. Conclusion: Although adherence to the present treatment protocol is considered to give satisfactory ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This article provides a survey of neutron scattering experiments in condensed matter research, which are of interest to chemistry. The theoretical background has been treated in a previous issue. The present article consists of two parts. The first part exhibits the range of experimental possibilities by means of a few selected examples. The starting point is classical neutron diffraction by which the position of atomic nuclei may be determined. Additional information on the spatial distribution in the outer electron shells may be obtained via combined X-ray/neutron-diffraction experiments or via the diffraction of polarized neutrons. Progress in instrumentation, due to the development of more intense sources, has influenced especially the fields of small angle scattering and spectroscopy. The second part features domains of research of current interest, where a combination of several neutron scattering techniques may prove to be necessary. Thus, the kinetics of structural processes ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Decreasing the aperture of a solar central receiver operating at high temperatures contributes significantly to the increase of the efficiency of energy absorption. However, decreasing the aperture also decreases the collection efficiency. A simple solution is using a 3D-CPC as secondary element for augmenting the energy collection, while the aperture can remain relatively small. Nevertheless, the receiver aperture as well as the secondary concentrator are usually rather large. For practical considerations an approximate solution may be chosen at times, designing the concentrator by a series of truncated cones. However, in particular cases, the solution of truncated cones remains expensive and unpractical and therefore the authors designed a CPC approximated by a series of trapezoidal planar facets. Under technical restrictions, there is an optimum for choosing the partition of the pure-CPC in truncated pyramids and the paper presents the method for a good solution. The design of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This project was conducted to evaluate novel approaches for removing radioactive strontium (Sr) and cesium (Cs) from the tank wastes. The bulk of the Sr removal research conducted as part of this project investigated adsorption of Sr onto a novel adsorbent known as iron-oxide-coated sand. The second major focus of the work was on the removal of cesium. Since the chemistries of strontium and cesium have little commonality, different materials (namely, cesium scavengers known as hexacyanoferrates, HCFs) were employed in these tests. This study bridged several scientific areas and yielded valuable knowledge for implementing new technological processes. The applicability of the results extends beyond the highly specialized application niches investigated experimentally to other issues of potential interest for EMSP programs (e.g., separation of chromium from a variety of wastes using IOCS, separation of Cs from neutral and acidic wastes with EC-controlled HCFs).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents a new methodology to create realistic 3D microstructures of polycrystals. The virtual microstructures are based on statistical data describing the morphological and crystallographic textures of a sample, obtained from an EBSD analysis. In addition, the methodology can reproduce the observed surface on top of the simulated microstructure. This feature allows finite element calculations on these virtual aggregates to be compared to experimental results of mechanical tests. Such a comparison leads to the identification of the mechanical parameters of constitutive laws, such as critical resolved shear stress and strain hardening, using an optimization algorithm. Two materials were simulated in this study: TiAl and grade 702 zirconium. The first one presents twins inside the microstructure and the second one has an anisotropic texture. Based on 2D simulations, the important parameters necessary to describe a microstructure were identified as grain ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For evaporation crystallization of extremely corrosive FGD scrubber solutions which - depending on the process - can lead all the way to a product suitable for depositing, an economic equipment concept based on metallic construction materials was to be investigated. In a parameter study, electrochemical test methods were used to determine the influence of the pH value, the Fe{sup 3+}, F and So{sub 2} contents in a solution containing 200 g/l CaCl{sub 2}+30 g/l NaCl at 80deg C on the resistance to pitting corrosion of stainless steels and NiCrMo alloys. In addition, electrochemical and wet corrosion tests (e.g. crevice corrosion) were conducted using original FGD scrubber solutions with 43-50% dry substance from the power plants Reuter-West, Oberhavel and Rudow of the BEWAG, Berlin. The results were compared to those of standardized and non-standardized short-term tests for determining the critical pitting corrosion and crevice corrosion temperatures for the various ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Science.gov (United States)

Materials World Network: Cooperative Activity in Materials Research between US Investigators and ... Program Title: Materials World Network: Cooperative Activity in Materials Research between US ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This definitive reference is organized in an easy-to-follow format based on materials properties. It features new and existing data verified through major professional societies in the materials fields, such as ASM International and the American Ceramic Society. The third edition has been significantly expanded, most notably by the addition of new tabular material for a wide range of nonferrous alloys and various materials. The contents include: Structure of materials; Composition of materials; Phase diagram sources; Thermodynamic and kinetic data; Thermal properties of materials; Mechanical properties of materials; Electrical properties of materials; Optical properties of materials; Chemical properties of materials.

Science.gov (United States)

NSF-NIST Interaction in Chemistry, Materials Research, Molecular Biosciences, Bioengineering, and ... Laboratory (CSTL). Materials research is centralized in the Materials Science and Engineering ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A method is described for immobilizing or solidifying waste material, which includes blending the waste material with powdered metal and subjecting the mixture of waste material and powdered metal to high pressure. (author).

Science.gov (United States)

... of this material is, however, outside the currently approved earth fill materials collection area ... fill material suitable for its intended use. The currently approved site contains material that is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An Fe-19Cr-8Al-0.5Hf alloy has been roll bonded to Alloy 800 to form a protective clad material suitable for use in coal conversion atmospheres. The commercial producibility of both the Fe-19Cr-8Al-0.5Hf alloy and the clad composite has been demonstrated. The clad composite has been shown to exhibit resistance to sulfidation in high sulfur, coal gasification atmospheres low Btu for 2000 hrs at 1800/sup 0/F (1255K). The FeCrAlHf alloy must be preoxidized in the absence of sulfur to form fully protective alumina scales on all surfaces. Useful life of the composite at temperatures of 1400 to 2000/sup 0/F (1033 to 1366K) is governed by reactions at the FeCrAlHf clad alloy 800 interface. The rate of interdiffusion decreases with increasing Ni content and a high Ni alloy such as RA333 appears to be a better substrate than Alloy 800 for a FeCrAlHf composite. The mechanical properties of the clad composite have been evaluated at both ambient (tensile and bend) and elevated ...

Science.gov (United States)

Basic research of the structure and electronic properties of a-Si:H is reported with particular emphasis on the role of defects. The main findings are as follows: (1) low defect density material can be deposited at a high rate using SiH/sub 4/ diluted in He or Ne. Using Ar or Kr results in a high defect density and columnar material; (2) an electrical bias during deposition modifies the band gap, hydrogen concentration and structure; (3) the clustering of hydrogen in the regions between the columns is confirmed; (4) hydrogen diffusion is observed by NMR; (5) the oxidation of an a-Si:H surface results in approx. 3 x 10/sup 11/ cm/sup -2/ dangling bonds at the interface; (6) auger recombination of photoexcited carriers is a significant non-radiative mechanism at low temperatures; (7) non-radiative recombination by diffusion and capture at dangling bonds is observed at temperatures above 50 to 100/sup 0/K; (8) the defect density in doped and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Maybell uranium mill tailings site is 25 miles (mi) (40 kilometers [km]) west of the town of Craig, Colorado, in Moffat County, in the northwestern part of the state. The unincorporated town of Maybell is 5 road mi (8 km) southwest of the site. The site is 2.5 mi (4 km) northeast of the Yampa River on relatively flat terrain broken by low, flat-topped mesas. U.S. Highway 40 runs east-west 2 mi (3.2 km) south of the site. The designated site covers approximately 110 acres (ac) (45 hectares [ha]) and consists of a concave-shaped tailings pile and rubble from the demolition of the mill buildings buried in the former mill area. The site is situated between Johnson Wash to the east and Rob Pit Mine to the west. Numerous reclaimed and unreclaimed mines are in the immediate vicinity. Aerial photographs (included at the end of this executive summary) show evidence of mining activity around the Maybell site. Contaminated materials at the Maybell processing site include ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The impingement of a fluid jet onto a surface has broad applications across many industries. Within the UK nuclear industry, during the final stages of fuel reprocessing, impinging fluid jets are utilised to mobilise settled sludge material within storage tanks and ponds in preparation for transfer and ultimate immobilisation through vitrification. Despite the extensive applications of impinging jets within the nuclear and other industries, the study of two-phase, solid loaded, impinging jets is limited, and generally restricted to computational modelling. Surprisingly, very little fundamental understanding of the turbulence structure within such fluid flows through experimental investigation is found within the literature. The physical modelling of impinging jet systems could successfully serve to aid computer model validation, determine operating requirements, evaluate plant throughput requirements, optimise process operations and support ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report summarizes the results of a dioxin/furan emissions test of a secondary-copper-recovery cupola furnace equipped with an afterburner for hydrocarbon emissions control and two baghouses for particulate-emissions control. The cupola furnace is used for recovery of copper from telephone scrap and other copper-bearing materials. The test was No. 10 in a series of dioxin/furan emissions tests conducted under Tier 4 of the National Dioxin Study. The primary objective of Tier 4 is to determine if various combustion sources are sources of dioxin/or furan emissions. If any of the combustion sources are found to emit dioxin or furan, the secondary objective of Tier 4 is to quantify these emissions. Secondary-copper-recovery cupola furnaces are one of 8 combustion-source categories that have been tested in the Tier 4 program. The tested cupola furnace, MET-A, was selected for the test after an initial information screening and a one-day pretest survey visit. Cupola ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

When Silk fibre derived from Bombyx mori, a native biopolymer, was dissolved in highly concentrated neutral salts such as CaCl{sub 2}, the regenerated liquid silk, a gradually degraded peptide mixture of silk fibroin, could be obtained. The silk fibroin nanoparticles were prepared rapidly from the liquid silk by using water-miscible protonic and polar aprotonic organic solvents. The nanoparticles are insoluble but well dispersed and stable in aqueous solution and are globular particles with a range of 35-125 nm in diameter by means of TEM, SEM, AFM and laser sizer. Over one half of the {epsilon}-amino groups exist around the protein nanoparticles by using a trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) method. Raman spectra shows the tyrosine residues on the surface of the globules are more exposed than those on native silk fibers. The crystalline polymorph and conformation transition of the silk nanoparticles from random-coil and {alpha}-helix form (Silk I) into anti-parallel {beta}-sheet form ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This is the final report of a one-year, Laboratory-Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). In an effort to address the problems of long term storage and nuclear waste minimization, zircon has been proposed as a host medium for plutonium and other actinides recovered from dismantled nuclear weapons. The objective of this work is to investigate the feasibility of large scale fabrication of Pu-bearing zircon. Since PuO_2 is thermodynamically less stable than ZrO_2, it is expected that the process parameters determined for synthesizing ZrSiO_4 (zircon) would be applicable to those for PuSiO_4 (Pu-zircon). Furthermore, since the foremost concern in plutonium processing is the potential for contamination release, this work emphasizes the development of process parameters, using zircon first, to anticipate potential material problems in the containment system for reaction mixtures during ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The pathway to hydrogen generation entirely from renewable energy and material sources probably goes by a transitional period with the utilization of hybrid fossil/renewable integrated systems. Solar steam reforming of methane is set in this context, specifically suited for a country like Italy whose actual energy policy is mainly based on the imported NG, but also characterized by convenient solar radiation levels in the Southern Regions. A new solar SMR process is being developed by ENEA, using molten nitrates as solar heat carriers and storage medium at about 550 C. The potential of this process have been proved theoretically by process simulation studies. Engineering and experimental activities aimed to the development of a prototype apparatus are now in progress in ENEA's laboratories. It is remarkable that the developed technology (MS powered SMR) can find interesting impact in the in industrial chemistry wherever it is convenient decoupling the heat ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Metal dusting corrosion has been a serious problem in the petroleum and petrochemical industries, such as reforming and syngas production systems. This form of deterioration has led to worldwide material loss for 50 years. For the past three years, we have studied the mechanism of metal dusting for Fe- and Ni-base alloys. In this report, we present a correlation between the weight loss and depth of pits that form in Ni-base alloys. Nickel-base alloys were also tested at 1 and 14.8 atm (210 psi), in a high carbon activity environment. Higher system pressure was found to accelerate corrosion in most Ni-base alloys. To reduce testing time, a pre-pitting method was developed. Mechanical scratches on the alloy surface led to fast metal dusting corrosion. We have also developed preliminary data on the performance of weldments of several Ni-base alloys in a metal dusting environment. Finally, Alloy 800 tubes and plates used in a reformer plant were ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

BIBRA "t"r"a"d"e"m"a"r"k, is the new bio-technological method developed in Gundremmingen for treating radioactive waste water, using bacteria in a process analogous to the long-established principle of communal sewage treatment plants. The method exploits the behaviour of the micro-organisms found there, to establish optimum adaptation of their population for decomposing the typical pollutants found in this washing water. This procedure is particularly suitable for nuclear engineering plants, because in such plants the waste water composition changes little so that the bacteria can achieve optimum adaptation to this waste water. The organic ingredients of the washing media are decomposed by introducing air. The advantage of the procedure is not only the significant reduction of the amount of waste material, but also enhanced efficiency of the cleaning process. The decontamination factor in Gundremmingen improved from a factor of 5 to a factor of 20. The waste water ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Biosorption of heavy metals by various biological materials has been studied extensively in the last decade due to its potential particularly in wastewater treatment. The presence of a large number of metals in industrial metal-bearing solutions makes it necessary to investigate their effect on the final metal uptake by individual biosorbent materials. Nonliving biomass of Sargassum, a brown marine alga, is capable of binding more than 10% of its dry weight in toxic cadmium ions. Although ubiquitous iron interferes with Cd uptake, only approximately 4.5% of it is sequestered (biomass dry weight). Biosorption of both metals at pH 4.5 could be described by Langmuir-type isotherms with b, the affinity-related coefficient (Cd: b = 0.015; Fe: b = 0.027). The interference of Fe with Cd uptake, and vice versa, was assessed by deriving three-dimensional equilibrium two-metal sorption isotherm surfaces, smoothed and cut to reveal ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This book describes the uses, coatings, and fabrication of laser materials. Topics considered include: optical waveguide materials; optical storage materials; holographic recording materials; phase conjunction materials; holographic recording materials; phase conjunction materials; laser crystals; laser glasses; quantum counter materials; thin films and coatings; multilayer dielectric coatings; graded-index surfaces and films; optical materials fabrication; fabrication techniques; fabrication procedures for specific materials.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The inner part of a fusion reactor will have to operate at very high neutron loads. In steady-state reactors the minimum fluence before the scheduled replacement of the reactor core should be at least l0-15 Mw.yr/m². A more frequent replacement of the core is hardly compatible with economic constraints. A most recent summary of the discussions of these issues is presented in Ref. [l]. If and when times come to build a commercial fusion reactor, the availability of information on the behavior of materials and components at such fluences will become mandatory for making a final decision. This makes it necessary an early development and construction of a neutron source for fusion material and component testing. In this paper, we present information on one very attractive concept of such a source: a source based on a so called Gas Dynamic Trap. This neutron source was proposed in the mid 1980s (Ref. [2]; ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In situ scanning tunneling microscopy has been used to study the nucleation and growth mechanisms and the structure of passive films formed on Cu(111) surfaces in 0.1 M borate buffer solution (pH 9.3). A surface topography characterized by terraces with monoatomic steps is obtained after potentiodynamic reduction down to {minus}1.12 V/standard hydrogen electrode (SHE), of the electropolished surface exposed to air. The formation of a single Cu{sub 2}O passive layer at 0.03 V/SHE proceeds first by a roughening of the steps assigned to a locally blocked step flow process due to a competition between dissolution and preferential nucleation of the oxide at the steps. The observed oxide nuclei are 2--3 nm wide and about one atomic plane high. This process leads to the complete coverage of the terraces by a grain-like structure of the oxide film. The initial terrace topography is completely altered. Thickening of this oxide layer leads to unstable scanning tunneling microscope imaging, ...

International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)

Metal Matrix Composites on the Basis of Nano-Materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS MATERIALS SCIENCE chromium-nickel

International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)

Development of Ceramic Composite Materials and Structural Elements for High-Temperature Nuclear Reactors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Classical semiconductor physics has been continuously improving electronic components such as diodes, light-emitting diodes, solar cells and transistors based on highly purified inorganic crystals over the past decades. Organic semiconductors, notably polymeric, are a comparatively young field of research, the first light-emitting diode based on conjugated polymers having been demonstrated in 1990. Polymeric semiconductors are of tremendous interest for high-volume, low-cost manufacturing (''printed electronics''). Due to their rather simple device structure mostly comprising only one or two functional layers, polymeric diodes are much more difficult to optimize compared to small-molecular organic devices. Usually, functions such as charge injection and transport are handled by the same material which thus needs to be highly optimized. The present work contributes to expanding the knowledge on the physical mechanisms determining ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Within the Annual Conference 2009 of the VGB PowerTech e.V. (Essen, Federal Republic of Germany) from 23rd to 25th May, 2009, in Lyon (France) the following lectures were held: (1) Electricity demand, consequences of the financial and economic crisis - Current overview 2020 for the EU-27 (Hans ten Berge); (2) Status and perspectives of the electricity generation mix in France (Bernard Dupraz); (3) European electricity grid - status and perspective (Dominique Maillard); (4) Technologies and acceptance in the European energy market (Gordon MacKerran); (5) EPR construction in Finland, China, France, (Claude Jaouen); (6) EPR Flamanville 3: A project on the path towards nuclear revival (Jacques Alary); (7) Worldwide nuclear Revival and acceptance (Luc Geraets); (8) An overview on the status of final disposal of radioactive wastes worldwide (Piet Zuidema); (9) Who needs pumped storage plants? PSP are partner to grid stability and renewable energies (Hans-Christoph ...

Science.gov (United States)

... Highly-Functional Materials" was launched in JFY1996 under the New Materials field. This project was ... Bio-mimetic materials" (1) Advanced stimuli responsive materials (2) Harmonized molecular materials ...

Science.gov (United States)

... 1995 Trilateral Materials Workshop PDF (202K) Report of the Workshop on Materials for Future ... in Materials Research Technology and Education PDF (163K) US-Asian Pacific Materials Research ...

Science.gov (United States)

This is the final Report for the technical ''on-the-job traning'' for the Wolsung CANDU nuclear power plant which is the first Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor setting up in Korea. The technical ''on-the-job traning'' was established to increase the capabi...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The longitudinal and transverse dynamics of a heavy ion fusion beam during the drift compression and final focus phase is studied. A lattice design with four time-dependent magnets is described that focuses the entire beam pulse onto a single focal point with the same spot size.

Science.gov (United States)

... Accession Number : ADA189111. Title : Request for an Analytical Transmission Electron Microscope. Descriptive Note : Final rept. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Science.gov (United States)

... Accession Number : AD0368940. Title : EXPLODING BRIDGEWIRE INITIATION OF CAST EXPLOSIVES. Descriptive Note : Final rept. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A progress report is presented on development of the WIPS computer code, a special purpose code for analysis of whip and impact in nuclear power piping. The computer code and final report are expected to be complete in December 1981. This progress report is an incomplete version of the final report, representing approximately 40% of the volume of the final report. Some sections in the report are complete, some are partially complete, and others are omitted. The report is intended to inform prospective WIPS users of the procedures, theories, and documentation standards which will be used for the computer code and the final report.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The central research question of this thesis is: What is the potential of multi-functional biomass systems to improve the costs and the land use efficiency of saving non-renewable energy consumption and reducing GHG (greenhouse gases) emissions in quantitative terms? Therefore, in the following chapters the performance of multi-functional biomass systems is quantified. Biomass system costs are investigated from a societal perspective using e.g. low discount rates. A main focus will be on the review of methodologies for accounting GHG emissions, non-renewable energy consumption, agricultural land use and costs as well as the adaptation of these methodologies to special aspects of multifunctional biomass use. The analysis of the potential benefits of multi-functional biomass systems is carried out by several case studies of biomass systems including various waste treatment technologies for the short term that appeared promising after a first review. Because at present the shift of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Effect of final temperature and duration of coking on the properties of formed coke from weakly-caking Donetsk and Kuznetsk coals was studied. An increase of the final temperature to 850 C produced significant changes in the mechanical and chemical properties of the coke. Increasing the temperature beyond this point did not affect the mechanical strength significantly, but did increase hardness, real density and electroconductivity of the coke and decrease reactivity. Increasing the period of coking at final temperatures in the 650 and 750 C range, produced insignificant hardening of the formed coke. An objective evaluation of the effect of final temperature can be performed by a series of tests which characterize the resistivity of the formed coke to impact and abrasion and the fine structure of the matter in coke. 9 references.

Science.gov (United States)

... MPS) Advanced Liquid Crystalline Optical Materials Superconductivity Computation and Visualization ... Cement-Based Materials Synthesis, Growth, and Analysis of Electronic Materials Photoinduced Charge ...

Science.gov (United States)

International Patenting Trends in Advanced Materials: Ceramics (June 18, 1999) This report is the ... manufacturing, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Hypertext Format Portable Document Format ...

Science.gov (United States)

... The approach is to perform noise spectral density measurements and selected materials structure measurements on GaAs detector materials, with ...

Science.gov (United States)

... curricula and prototypical instructional materials have been emphasized. The program has provided ... materials are adapted and implemented on a state-wide basis. The laboratory materials and the text ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

DMT has developed what is called the stepped reforming process. This is an allothermal gasification process which uses hydrogen for a gasification medium. First the biomass is pyrolised by means of a heat transfer material. The escaping gaseous and condensable constituents are hydrogenated, heated in a reforming stage and are made to react to a hydrogen-rich product gas by means of homogeneous gasification. The heat required for this is provided by burning the pyrolysis coke. This makes it possible to dispense with process stages that would involve gasification of solid material and hence require higher pressure levels. The present process also works at ambient pressure. Moreover, stepped reforming promises a number of additional advantages: low-tar product gas containing 60% hydrogen, high cold gas efficiency, no wastewater arisings, robust operating behaviour. This paper outlines the basic ideas that led to the development of stepped ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes work accomplished in the project, titled ''Development of Appropriate Resistance Spot Welding Practice for Transformation-Hardened Steels.'' The Phase 1 of the program involved development of in-situ temper diagrams for two gauges of representative dual-phase and martensitic grades of steels. The results showed that tempering is an effective way of reducing hold-time sensitivity (HTS) in hardenable high-strength sheet steels. In Phase 2, post-weld cooling rate techniques, incorporating tempering, were evaluated to reduce HTS for the same four steels. Three alternative methods, viz., post-heating, downsloping, and spike tempering, for HTS reduction were investigated. Downsloping was selected for detailed additional study, as it appeared to be the most promising of the cooling rate control methods. The downsloping maps for each of the candidate steels were used to locate the conditions necessary for the peak response. Three ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Available in abstract form only. Full text of publication follows: The uncertainties of decommissioning costs increase high due to several conditions. Decommissioning cost estimation depends on the complexity of nuclear installations, its site-specific physical and radiological inventories. Therefore, the decommissioning costs of nuclear research facilities must be estimated in accordance with the detailed sub-tasks and resources by the tasks of decommissioning activities. By selecting the classified activities and resources, costs are calculated by the items and then the total costs of all decommissioning activities are reshuffled to match with its usage and objectives. And the decommissioning cost of nuclear research facilities is calculated by applying a unit cost factor method on which classification of decommissioning works fitted with the features and specifications of decommissioning objects and establishment of composition factors are based. Decommissioning costs of nuclear ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is the first time that the adsorption of binary mixtures of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been studied. This study was carried out at laboratory scale in an experimental apparatus specially designed for this aim: with gas-phase fluorescence, a new detection procedure was used. Experimental conditions, mainly in terms of temperature (150C) and contaminant concentration (approximately 1 ppmv), close to the ones observed in energy generation systems, were applied. The PAH adsorption process interpretation was carried out by recording the experimentally obtained breakthrough curves. After the detection parameter optimization, the influence of adsorbate characteristics in the hot gas cleaning of PAH was studied. In this system, the adsorption of 10 binary mixtures of five PAH (naphthalene (Np), fluorene (Fu), phenanthrene (Phe), fluoranthene (Fl), and pyrene (Py)) on an activated carbon was investigated. It was found that the adsorbent efficiency is always determined by ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Main results are summarised for a project carried out with the aim of increasing the knowledge of relations between handling characeristics and properties such as moisture content, particle size and shape etc. Handling characteristics that were studied: angle of repose, friction between fuel and different surfaces, the fuel`s tendency to bridge across openings, and its freezing characteristics. Some forty solid biomass fuels were studied, mainly wood fuels, with particle sized from 1 to 200 mm. New methods were developed for measurement of bridging across openings and freezing characeristics. The angle of repose varied between 25 and 55 deg. The particle shape had a significant influence, a high ratio of length/thickness gave a high angle of repose. When the fuel moisture content was increased the angle of repose first increased, then decreased, and finally increased again. The particle size had no influence. The friction depended more on the surface than on the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The presence of water in export coals increases transport and handling costs. Coarse (+0.5 mm) coal constitutes the majority of the product, and small changes in its final moisture content will have a significant effect on overall product moisture. An on-line moisture monitor was installed on a product belt immediately after a coarse coal centrifuge to continuously measure the moisture content of the coal from a single centrifuge. Basic studies were also conducted with a laboratory centrifuge specifically designed to characterize various coarse coal samples in terms of their water retention capacity. The moisture of the coarse coal (typically 6 to 9%) was found to vary by at least 1% at a particular plant, and by a number of percentage points between plants. An empirical model has been developed which can explain about 80% of the moisture variation from the 25 samples investigated. The rank of the coals ranged from 0.7 to 1.65% mean reflectance. The model ...

Science.gov (United States)

PURPOSE: To determine the recommended dose of radiotherapy when combined with full-dose gemcitabine and erlotinib for unresected pancreas cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients with unresected pancreatic cancer (Zubrod performance status 0-2) were eligible for the present study. Gemcitabine was given weekly for 7 weeks (1,000 mg/m(2)) with erlotinib daily for 8 weeks (100 mg). A final toxicity assessment was performed in Week 9. Radiotherapy (starting at 30 Gy in 2-Gy fractions, 5 d/wk) was given to the gross tumor plus a 1-cm margin starting with the first dose of gemcitabine. A standard 3 plus 3 dose escalation (an additional 4 Gy within 2 days for each dose level) was used, except for the starting dose level, which was scheduled to contain 6 patients. In general, Grade 3 or greater gastrointestinal toxicity was considered a dose-limiting toxicity, except for Grade 3 anorexia or Grade 3 fatigue alone. RESULTS: A total of 20 patients were ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shielding calculations for neutron-gamma radiation are usually done by using the full Theory of Transport or the Monte Carlo Techniques. After some works based on the Albedo Method, the shielding calculations for neutron-gamma radiation have a reliable tool with great didactical value which shows its clarity and simplicity for the resolution of cases that involve neutrons and photon shielding in nonmultiplying media. The excellent results of these works have motivated the elaboration and the development of this study that will be presented in this dissertation. The balance of a neutronic current entering a shield of two layers considering the coupling neutron-gamma will be determined by the Albedo Method. The shield will be composed of a layer of iron and another one of manganese with 10 cm of thickness each. The arrays of the materials coefficients will be obtained from the ANISN code. ANISN is a one dimensional deterministic code that is based on transport ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Background: EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) inhibitors confer clinical benefit in metastatic colorectal cancer when combined with chemotherapy. An emerging strategy to improve outcomes in rectal cancer is to integrate biologically active, targeted agents as triple therapy into chemoradiation protocols. Material and methods: cetuximab and bevacizumab have now been incorporated into phase I-II studies of preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT) for rectal cancer. The rationale of these combinations, early efficacy and toxicity data, and possible molecular predictors for tumor response are reviewed. Computerized bibliographic searches of Pubmed were supplemented with hand searches of reference lists and abstracts of ASCO and ASTRO meetings. Results: the combination of cetuximab and CRT can be safely applied without dose compromises of the respective treatment components. Disappointingly low rates of pathologic ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

High quality single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) have been synthesized at large scales by the method of direct evaporation of carbon black and metallic catalyst mixtures, using induction thermal plasma technology. The processing system consists mainly of an RF plasma torch, which generates a plasma jet of extremely high temperature (?15 000 K), with a high energy density and abundance of reactive species (ions and neutrals). With the present reactor system, it has been demonstrated that carbon soot product which contains approximately 40 wt% of SWNT can be continuously synthesized at the high production rate of ?100 g h-1. The processing parameters involved have been examined closely in order to evaluate their individual influences on SWNT synthesis. The results have shown that the quality and purity of the SWNT produced are critically affected by the grade of carbon black, the plasma gas composition and the metallic catalyst employed. Theoretical calculations, including ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A laboratory model of a TPV generator in the kilowatt range was developed and tested. It was based on methane/oxygen combustion and a spectrally matched selective emitter/collector pair (ytterbia emitter-silicon PV cell). The system demonstrated a power output of 2.4 kilowatts at an overall efficiency of 4.5{percent} without recuperation of heat from the exhaust gases. Key aspects of the effort include: (1) process development and fabrication of mechanically strong selective emitter ceramic textile materials; (2) design of a stirred reactor emitter/burner capable of handling up to 175,000 Btu/hr fuel flows; (3) support to the developer of the production silicon concentrator cells capable of withstanding TPV environments; (4) assessing the apparent temperature exponent of selective emitters; and (5) determining that the remaining generator efficiency improvements are readily defined combustion engineering problems that do not necessitate breakthrough technology. The ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Evolution of rapid (?10 ns) Ohmic overheating of a microprotrusion on a surface in contact with a plasma by emission current is studied taking into account the energy carried by plasma ions and electrons, as well as Ohmic heating, emissive source of energy release (Nottingham effect), and heat removal due to heat conduction. Plasma parameters were considered in the range of n = 1014-1020 cm-3 and Te = 0.1 eV-10 keV. The threshold value of energy transferred to the surface from the plasma is found to be 200 MW/cm2; above this value, heating becomes explosive (namely, an increase in the temperature growth rate (?2T/?t2 > 0) and in passing current (?J/?t > 0) is observed in the final stage at T ? 104 K and j ? 108 A/cm2). In spite of the fact that Ohmic heating does not play any significant role for plasmas with a density lower than 10 18 cm-3 because the current is limited by the space charge of electrons, rapid overheating of top of microprotrusion is observed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The aim of this work is to account for the effects of the high temperature oxidation of metals on their microstructure and their mechanical properties. 'Model' materials like pure nickel, pure iron and the Ni-20Cr alloy are studied. Nickel foils have been oxidised at 1000 C on one side only in laboratory air, the other side being protected from oxidation by a reducing atmosphere. After the oxidation treatment, the unoxidized face was carefully examined by using an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Grain boundaries grooves were characterised and their depth were compared to the ones obtained on the same sample heat treated in the reducing atmosphere during the same time. They are found to be much deeper in the case of the single side oxidised samples. It is shown that this additional grooving is directly linked to the growth of the oxide scale on the opposite side and that it can be explained by the diffusion of the vacancies produced at the oxide ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The proposed design for a final repository for spent fuel and other long-lived residues in Sweden is based on the multi-barrier principle. The waste will be encapsulated in sealed cylindrical canisters, which will then be placed in granite bedrock and surrounded by compacted bentonite clay. The canister design is based on a thick cast inner container fitted inside a corrosion-resistant copper canister. During fabrication of the outer copper canisters there will be some unavoidable grain growth in the welded areas. As grains grow they will tend to concentrate impurities within the copper at the new grain boundaries. The work described in this report was undertaken to determine whether there is any possibility of enhanced corrosion at grain boundaries within the copper canister. The potential for grain boundary corrosion was investigated by exposing copper specimens, which had undergone different heat treatments and hence had different grain sizes, to aerated ...

Science.gov (United States)

This report describes the first phase of the AFS/DOE program on mathematical modeling of cupola behavior, covering the period May 19, 1989 to July 19, 1990. The objective of the program is to develop a comprehensive mathematical model of the cupola furnace for on-line and off-line process control and optimization. The work is being carried out by five organizations: Massachusetts Institute of Technology with responsibility for heat transfer and fluid flow modeling, and incorporation of the chemical models being developed by the University of Michigan team. Modern Equipment Company has the responsibility of compiling information on needed sensors for monitoring operation and providing materials data to be used for cupola input. General Motors, Central Foundry Division, is investigating the potential to augment the mathematical models with artificial intelligence programs. Lastly, General Motors Research laboratories are charged with providing accurate cupola ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc. (Energy Systems) manages a closed hazardous waste disposal unit, Chestnut Ridge Security Pits (CRSP), in the form of two trenches and several auger-holes, located on top of the eastern portion of Chestnut Ridge at the Department of Energy (DOE) Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant in Tennessee. The groundwater monitoring system for the unit presently consists of a network of upgradient and downgradient monitor wells. To investigate the discharge of groundwater to springs and streams, Energy Systems, through Geraghty and Miller, Inc., conducted an initial dye-tracer study during the driest part of 1990. The dye was detected at some of the monitoring sites, but verification was necessary due to the proximity of some sites to extraneous dye sources. Based on the results of the initial study, Energy Systems recommended to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) in the 1990 Groundwater Quality Assessment Report (GWQAR) (HSW 1991) for the CRSP ...