Science.gov (United States)

The authors have determined quantitative characteristics for oxide films forming on (111) surfaces of cadmium telluride single crystals on anodic oxidation in 0.1 M KOH: the constants in the Guenterschulze-Betz equation and the film growth constant, which is 2.4 nm/V, from which the activation energy for cadmium telluride electrooxidation has been calculated.

Science.gov (United States)

... Abstract : Cadmium telluride single crystals were subjected to multiple-energy boron ion implants with total doses up to 1.5 x 10 sq cm. ...

Science.gov (United States)

Thin film solar cells and solar cell testing - photovoltaic cells, radiation damage to cadmium sulfide solar cells, and airplane testing of solar cells

Science.gov (United States)

Cadmium telluride single crystals were grown heavily doped with chloride by the THM method. The resulting crystals were n-type with free carrier concentrations of the order of 10('12)/cm at room temperature. Hall effect studies revealed room temperature mobilities between 30 and 350 cm('2)/v-sec and resistivites between 2 x 10('3) and 10('4) ohm-cm. Studies were made of the gamma and alpha counting characteristics of these crystals with metal, metal-semiconductor, and metal-insulator electrodes. It was found that the MIS and MSS structures resulted in significant improvement over the MS structures in counting, signal-to-noise and energy resolution.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The results of Sandia National Laboratories' participation in the NASA Planetary Definition and Design Program are summarized. Areas reported include the characterization of large area cadmium zinc telluride spectrometers and the application of simulation techniques to the prediction of device performance. Also investigated was the response of mercuric iodide devices in the region from 1 to 100 KeV. A literature study to determine the status or radiation damage measurements in room temperature semiconductor devices is also reported.

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. ...

Science.gov (United States)

A high degree of structural perfection is an essential requirement for CdTe crystals used as substrates for the epitaxial growth of CdHgTe alloys. Here, a method for the evaluation of the structural perfection of CdTe crystals is proposed which is based on X-ray diffraction measurements using both two-crystal and three-crystal diffractometers (differential version). The method makes it possible to obtain more information on structural perfection both at the crystal surface and within the crystal body.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One chemical reagent, hydrazine hydrate, was discovered to accelerate the growth of semiconductor nanocrystals (cadmium telluride) instead of additional energy, which was applied to the synthesis of high-quality CdTe nanocrystals at room temperature and ambient conditions within several hours. Under this mild condition the mercapto stabilizers were not destroyed, and they guaranteed CdTe nanocrystal particle sizes with narrow and uniform distribution over the largest possible range. The CdTe nanocrystals (photoluminescence emission range of 530-660 nm) synthesized in this way had very good spectral properties; for instance, they showed high photoluminescence quantum yield of up to 60%. Furthermore, we have succeeded in detecting the living Borrelia burgdorferi of Lyme disease by its photoluminescence image using CdTe nanocrystals.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The literature of radiation damage measurements on cadmium zinc telluride (CZT), cadmium telluride (CT), and mercuric iodide (HgI{sub 2}) is reviewed and in the case of CZT supplemented by new alpha particle data. CZT strip detectors exposed to intermediate energy (1.3 MeV) proton fluences exhibit increased interstrip leakage after 10{sup 10} p/cm{sup 2} and significant bulk leakage after 10{sup 12} p/cm{sup 2}. CZT exposed to 200 MeV protons shows a two-fold loss in energy resolution after a fluence of 5 {times} 10{sup 9} p/cm{sup 2} in thick (3 mm) planar devices but little effect in 2 mm devices. No energy resolution effects were noted from moderated fission spectrum of neutrons after fluences up to 10{sup 10} n/cm{sup 2}, although activation was evident. Exposures of CZT to 5 MeV alpha particle at fluences up to 1.5 {times} 10{sup 10} {alpha}/cm{sup 2} produced a near linear decrease in peak ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Papers are presented on space power requirements and issues, space photovoltaic systems, space solar dynamic systems, space thermal systems, manned and unmanned space power systems, thermionics, and thermoelectrics. Also considered are high power devices for space power systems, high power conversion for space power systems, 1-10 kWe nuclear space power sources, 100-kW class nuclear power concepts, space reactor safety, and multimegawatt space nuclear power systems. Other topics include space power systems automation, space kilovolt technology, space power electronics, space lithium and nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium sodium storage, and space fuel cells. Papers are also presented on space nickel hydrogen batteries, alternative energy concepts and fuels, fuel cell technology, flow batteries, high-temperature batteries, energy conservation, battery energy storage, thermal energy storage, heat engines, MHD power systems, nuclear fission, and ...

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The US DOE`s Photovoltaics program has helped photovoltaic technologies evolve from materials and concepts in the laboratories to competitive products rolling off automated assembly lines. This document is divided into the following sections: 1992 PV program accomplishments, expanding markets for photovoltaic systems, developing today`s systems with utilities and industry, working with industry to advance the technology, cooperative research to improve materials and devices, selected achievements in cooperative R and D, and PV program services. Figs, tabs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The National Center for Photovoltaics sponsored the 17th Workshop on Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells & Modules: Materials and Processes, held in Vail, CO, August 5-8, 2007. This meeting provided a forum for an informal exchange of technical and scientific information between international researchers in the photovoltaic and relevant non-photovoltaic fields. The theme of this year's meeting was 'Expanding Technology for a Future Powered by Si Photovoltaics.'

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Investigations of cadmium toxicity to microorganisms are now more concerned with the interactions of cadmium with different environmental factors and other metals. The interactions are complex and have not been thoroughly studied yet. Metal interactions may assume the form of synergism characterized by increase in toxicity, but also of antagonism in which one metal reduces the toxicity of another. Apart from cadmium interactions with such toxic metals as mercury and lead, interactions of cadmium with the essential trace elements seem to be very interesting because it has been assumed that algal cells take up cadmium by the system transporting these elements. A previous study showed that cadmium transport into Stichococcus bacillaris cells was inhibited by Mn/sup 2 +/ ions. Thus, it can be supported that there exist some possibilities of using those ions ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... cadmium sulfides communications electrons performance testing physical

International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)

Elaboration of Electrochemical Solar Energy Converter Incorporating Cadmium Selenide Semiconductor Developed Electrochemically

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One approach to improving the competitiveness of photovoltaic systems is the development of designs specifically for export applications. In other words, where is it appropriate in a system design to incorporate components manufactured and/or assembled in the receiving country in order to improve the photovoltaic exports from the US? What appears to be needed is a systematic method of evaluating the potential for export from the US of PV systems for various application in different countries. Development of such a method was the goal of this project.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Populus yunnanensis was employed as a model species to detect sexual differences in growth, physiological, biochemical, and ultrastructural responses to cadmium (Cd) stress, nitrogen...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundEvidence on human semen quality as it relates to exposure to various metals, both essential (e.g., zinc, copper) and nonessential (e.g., cadmium, lead), is inconsistent....Full Text Available

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 photovoltaic technology, use of the photovoltaic effect ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A solar cell structure is produced by a method comprising baking the solar cell, containing a gridded top layer of cuprous sulfide formed on a base of cadmium sulfide, for 20 minutes to 10 hours, to produce a copper doped cds electrically insulating region in the cadmium sulfide base near the interface of the cuprous sulfide and the cadmium sulfide; removing the cuprous sulfide, and the copper doped cds insulating region not covered by the grid, to provide a bare cadmium sulfide areas; and then forming a cuprous sulfide layer on the exposed areas not covered by the grid.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... bismuth chlorides bismuth 207 cadmium chlorides efficiency evaporation high

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper reports the recovery of zinc and cadmium following 6.1 MeV alpha particle irradiation at 4.2 K as studied by means of electrical reistivity measurements. Specimens of 10 #mu#m thick have been used in order to obtain a homogeneous defect distribution over the whole thickness of the specimen. The pre-irradiation resistivity ratios were 700 and 750 for cadmium and zinc, respectively. (Auth.).

Science.gov (United States)

A general account of the properties, growing technology and annealing of lead-tin-telluride single crystals is given. Photoconductors were made for the 8 to 14 micron. spectral range and responsivity, detectivity and spectral response measurements showed satisfactory results. Improvement in the growing and annealing of the single crystals promise good performance in the near future.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Heavy metals discharged from industries are a major source of pollution which has become a threat to all forms of life. Among the various heavy metals, cadmium is known to be highly toxic even in low concentrations. The harmful effects of cadmium is attributed to its effects on sulfhydryl groups of enzymes, especially dehydrogenases. Various aspects of cadmium pollution on fishes have been extensively reviewed. A survey of the literature reveals that few attempts have been made to study the various aspects of cadmium toxicity in crustaceans and these studies were mainly devoted to marine forms. The freshwater crustaceans, particularly the freshwater field crab, Barytelphusa guerini, has received little attention. The present study reports the influence of cadmium on certain aspects of protein metabolism in the tissues of a freshwater field crab, Barytelphusa guerini, and important ...

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)

This report summarizes the progress of the Solid State Photovoltaic Research Branch of the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) from October 1, 1988, through September 30,l 1989. Six technical sections of the report cover these main areas of SERIs in-house research: Semiconductor Crystal Growth, Amorphous Silicon Research, Polycrystalline Thin Films, III-V High-Efficiency Photovoltaic Cells, Solid-State Theory, and Laser Raman and Luminescence Spectroscopy. Sections have been indexed separately for inclusion on the data base.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents case studies of economic feasibility of solar photovoltaic systems using the software AVES-F (Analysis of Economic Feasibility of Photovoltaic Systems), developed by the authors, considering cases of stand-alone and grid-connected systems. The software takes into account several factors that can influence the economic feasibility of these kind of systems, like load to be supplied, distance to the grid, the use regime of the system, applied subsidies and others. The main goal of this paper is to analyze some of these factors and to observe how they can affect the economics of PV systems for electricity generation. (authors)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A set of nomographs to estimate the levelized energy cost for photovoltaic systems are presented. These are designed to assist system designers, analysts, and planners in estimating the effects of research and development and system-design optimization on the delivered cost of energy. The nomographs are based on a refined version of the energy cost estimation equation that appears in the National Photovoltaics Program Five-Year Research Plan. The nomographs have been prepared to emphasize technologies with the potential of producing low-cost energy (<$0.40/kWh levelized in nominal terms or $0.17/kWh in 1982 dollars), and thus primarily apply to far-term or advanced intermediate photovoltaic technologies. Separate sets of nomographs are presented to encompass both flat-plate and concentrator technologies. To supplement the nomographs, a set of tabular solutions of the energy cost equation are included as an appendix.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cadmium is an environmental toxic metal implicated in human diseases. The mechanism of its toxicity is not fully understood. Therefore, the role of cadmium in renal toxicity, and the protective role of selenium against this toxicity were investigated. Forty-five male rats were used through out the study and divided into three groups of 15. The first group received saline solution daily for 10 days. The second group, received cadmium chloride (CdCl_2) (2 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally daily for a period of 10 days. The third group, received sodium selenite (1 mg/kg body weight, twice a day) and CdCl_2 (once a day) for a period of 10 days. The results showed that cadmium treatment increased renal lipid peroxidation (measured as malondialdehyde, MDA) which was associated with a significant decrease in the antioxidant systems such as reduced glutathione levels and the activities of glutathione ...

Science.gov (United States)

An evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at the ASARCO Globe facility, Denver, Colorado. The facility was involved in the recovery of cadmium from baghouse dust, a waste byproduct of nonferrous smelters. A medical study of kidney function was conducted in 45 current or former cadmium production workers; results were compared to those for 35 hospital workers. Kidney abnormalities were more common and more severe in the cadmium workers than in the hospital workers. Abnormalities of proximal tubular function included reduced reabsorption of beta-2-microglobulin, retinol binding protein, calcium and phosphate. Glomerular dysfunction was evidenced as elevated serum creatinine. As length of exposure to cadmium increased, changes became more apparent in workers. No reversal of the conditions was noted in workers who had ceased to be exposed to cadmium some time ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Taconite tailings and their component asbestiform minerals in Lake Superior water had no demonstrable effect on the chronic toxicity of cadmium to the flagfish, Jordanella floridae. Maximum acceptable toxicant concentrations determined in life cycle tests, where effects on survival, growth, reproduction, and bioconcentration were used as endpoints, were between 3.3 to 7.4, 3.0 to 6.5, and 3.4 to 7.3 micrograms cadmium/liter at 0.004, 0.08, and 0.95 mg/liter taconite tailings concentrations, respectively.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The intention of the research carried out was to develop photovoltaic driven solar heating systems applied for drying of medicinal plants in remote areas. Identification of hybrid photovoltaic - photothermal systems was done and discussion of technical features and applicability of such systems in agriculture is presented. Detail technical specification of PV powered medicinal plants solar dryer and cost effectiveness parameters are given. Operational and economic results obtained during testing of the dryer are promising. (orig.) 4 refs.

Science.gov (United States)

Sputtering of glass coatings on cadmium sulfide thin film solar cells

Science.gov (United States)

Attempt to form the Schottky barrier on mercury indium telluride (MIT) surface by deposition transparent conducting electrode (TCE) and avoid the negative results by non-rectifier contacts nature, we have investigated the oxidation of clean MIT surfaces to form an insulating layer to overcome this disadvantage by metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) photodetectors designing. Oxide film is grown on the MIT surface by plasma enhance chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Previously cleaned MIT wafers were dipped and boiled in solution, which consists of mixture of bromine and an organic solvent in ratio of 1:50. By the way of using these films as intermediate slightly conducting insulator, a fast-response MIT based surface-barrier photodetectors have been developed. Pt films were used as TCE frontal electrode by vacuum magnetron sputtering (VMS). The current-voltage characteristic is described quantitatively based on the energy diagram and the found parameters of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new method for the separation and determination of trace amounts of cadmium and zinc in water as their thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) complexes with dibenzo-18-crown-6 (DB18C6) in o-dichlorobenzene has been established by means of synergistic extraction and back-extraction combined with atomic absorption spectrometry. The effect of various factors (synergism with TTA and DB18C6, shaking time, composition of the extracted species, and mutual separation etc.) on the extraction and back-extraction of cadmium and zinc has been in- vestigated. When the mixtures were extracted for 4 min at pH 4.9, only zinc was extracted quantitatively, whereas cadmium remained in the aqueous phase. After the phases were separated, cadmium was again extracted quantitatively at pH 7.5. Then, the two phases were each shaken with 0.05-0.1 mol/l HCl in order to back-extract cadmium and zinc from the organic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Binding of Cd/sup 2 +/ ions in aqueous solutions of statistical copolymers of acrylamide with cadmium acrylate with different content of ionogenic groups in copolymers was investigated by polarography, conductometry, viscometry and dialysis. It is shown that the degree of binding of Cd/sup 2 +/ ions increases with increasing of the content of ionogenic groups in the copolymer and with decreasing of ionic strength of the solution. The values of the degree of binding of Cd/sup 2 +/ ions obtained by polarography and dialysis show satisfactory agreement.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Diesel power technology has been utilized worldwide, especially in remote regions, because of its low initial capital cost. But it has negative effects on the surrounding environment and causes global warming. On the other hand, depleting oil and fuel resources has made it inevitable to seek alternative/renewable energy resources. In Iran, the cost of fuel is highly subsidized. If Iran removes the fuel subsidy, the cost of diesel fuel would increase and the photovoltaic (PV) or hybrid PV/diesel systems would become more attractive. Hybrid photovoltaic/diesel/battery (PV/diesel/bat) systems which use PV energy, combined with diesel generation power and battery bank storage are an excellent solution to decrease diesel generator costs, pollution, and electrification of remote rural areas. In ...

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. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An important growth in the power of the photovoltaic systems connected to a grid has recently been observed. In spite of the advances in module technology, the problems in the system design increased, especially regarding the surface of the earth they occupy. In this work we propose a complete model for plant simulation with different wiring diagrams and under dynamic shading. Results obtained from simulations showed that the configuration with the lowest performance was that of only one serial-parallel group, whereas the highest efficiency corresponded to a design of groups of modules in parallel connected then in series. In general, a higher efficiency was obtained diminishing the quantity of modules in series and increasing their number in parallel. The simulation model proposed allows exploring different alternatives of wiring modules and finding the most efficient configurations for photovoltaic plants of medium and high power. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This final report for the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) describes the 23.5 kW photovoltaic installation on the Customs House in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland. The objective of the 'Zollhof' photovoltaic solar power plant is to provide the local population with a 'hands-on' solar cell experience, that, according to the authors, should lead to better understanding of renewable energy technology. The commissioning and initial operation of the installation is commented on, as are the above-average production figures of the plant. The power produced is sold by the local utility to its customers as electricity from renewable resources.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report contains the document control information and abstracts for Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) Photovoltaic (PV) Program publications resulting from SERI's subcontracted PV research. The information is presented for reports published or distributed from August 1 through December 31, 1990. In the past, copies of the subcontractor reports were distributed to a broad spectrum of researchers in the field of photovoltaics at a considerable cost to the program. In an attempt to reduce costs and ensure that all researchers receive those current publications that are of specific interest to them, this report will outline these publications, organized by technology, on a regular basis. A list of additional publications and sources is included herein to provide the photovoltaic community with other sources of information. All of the documents represented here are available from the National Technical ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Laser assisted solar cell metallization processing which is a one step process is examined. The potential advantages of laser disposition techniques for photovoltaic systems are: a high resolution, no photolithography, clean and contamination free, in-situ sintering, and low contact resistance.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A method for enrichment of the ppb level of cadmium in water by using the coagulation of soybean protein by adding acids or its complex-forming character with heavy metal ions was investigated. After adding fixed amounts of soybean milk and 2% sodium diethyldithiocarbamate(DDTC) aqueous solution and a suitable amount of delta-gluconic lactone (delta-GL) to a sample solution, the mixture was heated to boiling in order to coagulate the protein. The coagulum(soybean curd) was separated from the suspension by centrifugation and burned to ashes with a low temperature plasma asher. Then the cadmium enriched in it was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Various factors such as the pH of the sample solution, the amounts of soybean milk and the collection additives, and the concentration of NaCl in the sample solution on the recovery of cadmium were examined systematically. The best recovery was obtained under the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document describes testing and computation procedures used to generate a photovoltaic Module Energy Rating (MER). The MER consists of 10 estimates of the amount of energy a single module of a particular type (make and model) will produce in one day. Module energy values are calculated for each of five different sets of weather conditions (defined by location and date) and two load types. Because reproduction of these exact testing conditions in the field or laboratory is not feasible, limited testing and modeling procedures and assumptions are specified.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Iron, zinc, copper and manganese are essential metals for cellular enzyme functions while cadmium, mercury and the metalloid arsenic lack any biological function. Both, essential metals, at high concentrations, and non-essential metals and metalloids are extremely reactive and toxic. Therefore, plants have acquired specialized mechanisms to sense, transport and maintain essential metals within physiological concentrations and to detoxify non-essential metals and metalloids. This review focuses on the recent identification of transporters that sequester cadmium and arsenic in vacuoles and the mechanisms mediating the partitioning of these metal(loid)s between roots and shoots. We further discuss recent models of phloem-mediated long-distance transport, seed accumulation of Cd and As and rec...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

National soil quality criteria for the protection of ecological receptors, including livestock and wildlife, are currently under development in Canada. Based on an evaluation of direct soil contact and soil and food ingestion pathways for sensitive species, soil quality criteria for lead, copper, arsenic, cadmium and mercury for three land use categories have been derived. The draft values, in mg/kg soil, for agricultural, residential/parkland, commercial/industrial land uses are: mercury, 4, 4, 30; copper, 62, 62, 100; cadmium, 10, 10, 27; lead, 70, 250, 400; arsenic, 17, 17, 26. Critical data requirements in developing soil quality criteria are also reviewed.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Cell suspension cultures of tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv VFNT-Cherry, produce phytochelatins (poly[γ-glutamylcysteinyl]glycines) when exposed to cadmium. The synthesis...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Biosorption of the heavy metal ion Cd{sup 2+} by protonated nonliving brown alga Sargassum fluitans biomass was accompanied by the release of hydrogen protons from the biomass. The uptake of cadmium and the release of proton matched each other throughout the biosorption process. The end-point titration methodology was used to maintain the constant pH 4.0 for developing the dynamic sorption rate. The sorption isotherm could be well represented by the Langmuir sorption model. A mass transfer model assuming the intraparticle diffusion in a one-dimensional thin plate as a controlling step was developed to describe the overall biosorption rate of cadmium ions in flat seaweed biomass particles. The overall biosorption mathematical model equations were solved numerically yielding the effective diffusion coefficient D{sub e} about 3.5 {times} 10{sup {minus}6} cm{sup 2}/s. This value matches that obtained for the desorption process and is approximately ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Cadmium sulfide particles have been synthesized in the aqueous medium using the amino acid histidine as a stabilizing agent. These particles demonstrate the phenomenon of size quantization effect. The fluorescence of histidine-stabilized CdS was found to be enhanced and quenched by the addition of DNA bases adenine and guanine, respectively. The fluorescence enhancement of CdS in the presence of adenine has been explained on the basis of interaction between the quantum dot stabilizer and the amino group of adenine. Quenching of CdS fluorescence by guanine occurs due to interaction of the substrate with the quantum dot surface.

Science.gov (United States)

Since 1901, ASARCO, Inc. has owned and operated an 89-acre cadmium-refining smelter in the Globeville neighborhood of north Denver, Colorado. According to complaints filed by EPA and local residents, operations at the smelter have allegedly contaminated the air, ground water, surface water, and soil; contamination from arsenic, cadmium, lead, and zinc has occurred both onsite and offsite. EPA proposed to add the site to the National Priorities List (NPL) in May 1993.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The article provides a 1998 updated picture of Italy's and the world's photovoltaic market in terms of produced modules and total installed capacity, as well as market growth forecasts up to 2010. After a short description of the state-of-the-art of cell and module manufacturing, ana analysis of the cost of producing a photovoltaic kw is reported for different plant types: stand-alone plants with energy storage batteries, plants connected to low low voltage networks or intended for supporting medium voltage networks, hybrid plants with diesel sets. The article is concluded by illustrating ENEL's (Electric Power Production Company) engagement in the field of photovoltaic solar energy as regards theoretical studies, research and testing of new technologies, and installing plants; over nearly twenty years of activity, ENEL has designed and built a few hundreds of photovoltaic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

As the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Solar Energy Technologies Program initiates new cost-shared solar energy R&D under the Solar America Initiative (SAI), it is useful to analyze the experience gained from cost-shared R&D projects that have been funded through the program to date. This report summarizes lessons learned from two DOE-sponsored photovoltaic (PV) projects: the Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology/PV Manufacturing R&D (PVMaT/PVMR&D) project and the Thin-Film PV Partnership project. During the past 10-15 years, these two projects have invested roughly $330 million of government resources in cost-shared R&D and leveraged another $190 million in private-sector PV R&D investments. Following a description of key findings and brief descriptions of the PVMaT/PVMR&D and Thin-Film PV Partnership projects, this report presents lessons learned from the projects.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The National Center for Photovoltaics sponsored the 15th Workshop on Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells & Modules: Materials and Processes, held in Vail, CO, August 7-10, 2005. This meeting provided a forum for an informal exchange of technical and scientific information between international researchers in the photovoltaic and relevant non-photovoltaic fields. The workshop addressed the fundamental properties of PV silicon, new solar cell designs, and advanced solar cell processing techniques. A combination of oral presentations by invited speakers, poster sessions, and discussion sessions reviewed recent advances in crystal growth, new cell designs, new processes and process characterization techniques, and cell fabrication approaches suitable for future manufacturing demands. The theme of this year's meeting was 'Providing the Scientific Basis for Industrial Success.' Specific sessions during ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In areas where grid connection is difficult and costly, the use of renewable energy is both economically and environmentally advantageous. Due to typically low system efficiency (10%) and intermittency of photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation, a new design of multi-level H-bridge inverter technology is considered. This multi-level technology increases DC to AC conversion efficiency and the design includes battery energy storage to enable 24/7 operation. The proposed multi-level inverter is compared and contrasted with other existing designs. The proposed cascaded inverter provides lower switching losses, simple switching techniques, modularity, and simpler charge-balancing approaches than conventional technology. A switching technique was designed for the proposed multi-level inverter t...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Measurements and Characterization Branch actively supports the advancement of DOE/NREL goals for the development and implementation of the solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. The primary focus of the laboratories is to provide state-of-the-art analytical capabilities for materials and device characterization and fabrication. The branch houses a comprehensive facility that Is capable of providing information on the full range of PV components. A major objective of the branch is to aggressively pursue collaborative research with other government laboratories, universities, and industrial firms for the advancement of Pv technologies. Members of the branch disseminate research findings to the technical community in publications and presentations. The Measurements and Characterization Branch encompasses seven coordinated research groups, providing integrated research and development that covers all aspects of photovoltaic materials/devices ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A full analysis is shown in this paper for the cost of kWh generated from photovoltaic station located in Kuwait. By using a 21 years weather data for Kuwait, the yearly generated energy was found by proposing the PV station capacity with known panels tilt angle. The cost of kWh generated from PV station was compared with the kWh generated from conventional units in the country. A sensitivity analysis was done to some factors, capital cost per installed PV peak watt, discount rate, and operating peak hours, which affect the cost of kWh production from both PV and conventional units. If the PV station is proposed to be installed in Kuwait, the capital cost per PV installed peak watt must be less than today`s prices. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report summarizes the progress of the Basic Sciences Branch of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) from October 1, 1989, through September 30, 1990. Six technical sections of the report cover these main areas of NREL's in-house research: Semiconductor Crystal Growth, Amorphous Silicon Research, Polycrystalline Thin Films, III-V High-Efficiency Photovoltaic Cells, Solid-State Theory, and Solid-State Spectroscopy. Each section of the report was written by the group leader principally in charge of the work. The task in each case was to explain the purpose and major accomplishments of the work in the context of the US Department of Energy's National Photovoltaic Research Program plans.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Extraction of copper-, nickel-, zinc- and cadmium complexes with 4-(2 pyridilazo)-resorcin (PAR) is studied in the presence of 2-aminopyridine (Am). Maximum optical densities of the extracts are attained at pH=7.5-8.0; 6.0-7.0; 6.5-7.0 and 7.0-8.0, respectively. The ratio of components in the complexes extractable by chloroform was defined by the method of isomolar series and equilibrium shift. It is established that nickel and copper are extracted to the organic phase as the NiAm(PAR)_2 and CuAmPAR complexes, and, in the case of zinc and cadmium, complexes of different composition are extracted, for example Zn(Am)_2PAR and ZnAm(PAR)_2. The light absorption spectra are studied and molar extinction coefficients of complex extracts are determined at lambdasub(max). It is shown that the general low of light absorption is observed within a sufficiently wide range of concentrations for all the elements.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Heat inactivated Aspergillus ustus (Asp), silicon dioxide-nano-powder (N Si), and silicon dioxide nano-powder-combined-heat inactivated Aspergillus ustus (N Si Asp) were used to study the biosorption of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions via batch equilibrium technique. Surface characterization and immobilization of the fungal cells on silicon dioxide-nano-powder were examined and confirmed by using FT-IR and ESM analysis. Cadmium biosorption processes were investigated under the effect of pH, contact time, sorbent dosage and initial metal concentration. The three examined sorbents were found to exhibit maximum mmolg^-^1 capacity values in pH 7.0. The maximum determined cadmium capacity by silicon dioxide-nano-powder (N Si) (600mmolg^-^1) was found higher than that exhibited by the heat inactiv...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This 2001 edition of the guide to UK renewable companies and equipment and service providers presents summaries of the different industry sectors covering wind power, photovoltaics, solar water heating, geothermal heat pump, hydroelectric power, marine current and wave technology, bioenergy, power generation from landfill gas, energy from waste, and cogeneration. A UK company classification listing and index is provided along with listing of UK organisations and companies and an index of advertisers.

Science.gov (United States)

This current awareness bulletin announces on a semimonthly basis the current worldwide information entered into the Energy Data Base on all aspects of direct energy conversion. Categories include photovoltaic conversion, magnetohydrodynamic generators, electrohydrodynamic generators, thermoelectric generators, thermionic converters, fuel cells, and miscellaneous converters. An abstract is inclluded with each citation. (WHK)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Biosorption behaviour of and toxic effects of heavy metals in submersed and immobilised microorganisms was studied in batches and in continuous processes in an airlift-recycle reactor. Nickel, cadmium, and zinc were used as heavy metals. (orig./VHE) [Deutsch] Am Beispiel einer Naphthalin-2-sulfonsaeure-abbauenden Kultur wurde das Biosorptionsverhalten und die toxische Wirkung von Schwermetallen auf submerse und immobilisierte Mikroorganismen im Batch-Ansatz und im kontinuierlichen Betrieb in einem Airlift-Schlaufenreaktor untersucht. Als Schwermetalle wurden Nickel, Cadmium und Zink eingesetzt. (orig./VHE)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose Two main pathways of phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils are phytostabilization and phytoextraction. Some soil amendments can strengthen phytostabilization or phytoextraction through either reducing heavy metal bioavailability in soil or increasing the heavy metal accumulation capacity of the hyperaccumulator (enhancing heavy metal concentration or shoot biomass of the hyperaccumulator). Urea and chicken manure are often used as fertilizers. This research will explore their effects on a newly found hyperaccumulator, Rorippa globosa (Turcz.) Thell., phytoremediating cadmium (Cd). Materials and methods Pot culture experiment was conducted to study the accumulation characteristics of R. globosa at different Cd contamination concentrations under one fertilizer level (1?g...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A method is described for determination of aluminium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, manganese, nickel, lead, strontium, zinc, titanium and vanadium in iron ore. After dissolution, a 1 gram sample of iron ore is applied to a column of AGI-X8 anion exchange resin (chloride form), in 100 ml of 7M HCl. Aluminium, chromium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, manganese, nickel, lead, strontium, titanium and vanadium are eluted with 7M HCl; iron, copper and cobalt are eluted with 0.5M HCl; cadmium and zinc are eluted with 2M HNO_3. Iron is subsequently removed from copper and cobalt by a solvent extraction with methyl isobutyl ketone. The elements are determined in the eluates by atomic absorption spectrometry, except for titanium and vanadium, which are determined spectrophotometrically.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

To reconstruct the profiles of heavy metal levels in the South Ocean ecosystem of Antarctica, the concentrations of lead (Pb), copper (Cu), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) in seal hairs and lake sediments spanning the past 1500?years from Fildes Peninsula of King George Island and in weathering lake sediments from Nelson Island of West Antarctica were determined. The lead contents in the seal hairs and the weathering sediments show a sharp increase since the late 1800s, very likely due to anthropogenic contamination from modern industries. After the 1980s, the Pb content in seal hairs dropped by one-third, apparently due to the reduced usage of leaded gasoline in the Southern Hemisphere. Copper arises mainly from the weathering process, and its level may be substantially affected...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The separation, concentration, and determination of trace elements in iron ores are described. After the sample has been dissolved, the iron is separated by liquid-liquid extraction with a liquid cation-exchanger, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid. The trace elements aluminium, cadmium, calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, magnesium, manganese, mercury, potassium, sodium, vanadium, and zinc are determined in the aqueous phase by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Thlaspi caerulescens is a heavy metal hyperaccumulator plant species that is able to accumulate extremely high levels of zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) in its shoots (30,000 μg...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The levels of four different heavy metals [cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr) and copper (Cu)] were determined in various vegetables [leek (Allium ampeloprasum), sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), parsley (Petroselium cripsum), gardem cress (lepidium sativum) and tarragon (Artemisia dracuncullus)] cultivated around the Sanandaj city. (Author)

Science.gov (United States)

Lunar resource utilization has focused principally on the extraction of oxygen from the lunar regolith. A number of schemes have been proposed for oxygen extraction from Ilmenite and Anorthite. Serendipitously, these schemes have as their by-products (or more directly as their "waste products"), materials needed for the fabrication of thin film silicon solar cells. Thus lunar surface possesses both the elemental components needed for the fabrication of silicon solar cells and a vacuum environment that allows for vacuum deposition of thin film solar cells directly on the surface of the Moon without the need for vacuum chambers. In support of the US space exploration initiative a new architecture for the production of thin film solar cells on directly on the lunar surface is proposed. The paper discusses experimental data on the fabrication and properties of lunar glass substrates, evaporated lunar regolith thin films (anti-reflect coatings and insulators), and preliminary attempts in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The feasibility of utilizing photoelectrochemical and electrolytical technologies to convert energy from the sun and wind into hydrogen was studied. In exploring opportunities to reduce the cost of hydrogen production through interaction with the electric utility grid, it was found that direct photoelectrochemical (PEC) conversion of sunlight has the economic potential to compete with direct photovoltaic/electrolysis, notwithstanding the significant stability and efficiency issues that are still awaiting solution. Interaction with the grid, while maximizing electrolizer use, makes a significant impact on the economics of producing hydrogen by photovoltaic/electrolysis, making wind-based systems also more economical. Electrolysis was found to be the optimal solution only with electricity from renewable sources or with less expensive non-peak electricity. On the other hand, the delivered cost of hydrogen was found to the lowest when electricity ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rapid growth in economic development, coupled with the absence of an electric grid in large areas of the rural countryside, have created a need for new energy sources both in urban centers and rural areas in China. Environmental pollution from the increased use of coal-fired steam turbines to meet this capacity expansion is a concern. There is a growing interest in China to develop renewable-energy resources and technologies to meet energy demands and help mitigate pollution problems. In February 1995, Secretary Hazel O`Leary of the U.S. Department of Energy signed an Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Protocol Agreement with the Chinese State Science and Technology Commission in Beijing, China. Under this agreement, projects using photovoltaics for rural electrification are being conducted in Gansu Province in western China and Inner Mongolia in northern China, providing the basis for much wider deployment and use of photovoltaics for ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper reports the study results on the standard weather data necessary for simulation of PV power generation systems in fiscal 1994. In the study on the selection criterion of the standard weather data from the viewpoint of PV power generation systems, three typical years are used; a year with average solar radiation, and two years with extremely less and more solar radiation for safe simulation. The standard weather data are arranged for output calculation of PV power generation systems by selecting the most typical year based on long-term observation data. The data to be arranged are as follows; total, direct and scattered solar radiations incident upon a horizontal surface, solar radiation upon a slope surface, sunshine duration, air temperature, wind direction, wind velocity, amount of precipitation, and snow depth. For arrangement of the nationwide standard weather data, estimation of total solar radiation is necessary based on sunshine duration data observed by all weather ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A free standing outdoor telephone booth is provided with a photovoltaic (PV) array, one or more rechargeable storage batteries and electrical control circuit which includes a temperature compensated control for limiting the supply of electrical energy from the PV array to the rechargeable battery to avoid over charging the battery, an ambient light (solar insolation) sensing circuit for controlling the electrical lamp load, to turn the lamp ON during dark ambient and OFF during light ambient conditions. In addition, the total discharge limit of the storage battery is controlled to a safe operating limit and a means is disclosed to power a fluorescent lamp at energy conserving intensities with energy derived from the rechargeable storage battery. The lamp control circuitry is preferably constituted by a high frequency power inverter with regulated output power to energize a low wattage fluorescent lamp and to dim the fluorescent lamp when the telephone is not in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A 2007 report compiled by members of the armed services indicates that climate change presents a serious security threat to the American public as well as to United States military operations. It is likely that climate change will increase global tensions and competition for resources. This presentation discussed advanced research and technology programs conducted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Scientists and engineers at NASA have developed a number of technologies that may contribute to American energy security. Advanced energy research and development programs initiated by the organization include advanced heat engines; wind turbines; batteries and electric cars; solar photovoltaics; and fuel cell technologies. NASA's aeronautics and space exploration program has several capabilities relevant to advanced wind power systems. A collaborative program is currently underway to develop airborne wind turbines designed to harness high ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The economics of renewable energy are the largest barrier to renewable penetration. Nevertheless, the strong desire to reduce environmental emissions is considered a great support for renewable energy sources. In this paper, a full analysis for the cost of the kWh of electricity generated from different systems actually used in Egypt is presented. Also renewable energy systems are proposed and their costs are analyzed. The analysis considers the external cost of emissions from different generating systems. A proposed large scale PV plant of 3.3 MW, and a wind farm 11.25 MW grid connected at different sites are investigated. A life cycle cost analysis for each system was performed using the present value criterion. The comparison results showed that wind energy generation has the lowest cost, followed by a combined cycle-natural gas fired system. A photovoltaic system still uses comparatively expensive technology for electricity generation; even when external costs ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Novel hybrid organic/inorganic nanocomposites made of metal oxide and conjugated polymer nanocomposite and its application in bulk-heterojunction solar cells were studied. The composite was composed of different concentrations of strontium titanate (SrTiO_3) and polyaniline doped phosphoric acid. The optimum concentration of strontium titanate was found to be 0.2 v/v. An inorganic-organic photovoltaic device with a structure of Ag/Pani-H_3PO_4-SrTiO_3/Al has been fabricated. The ideality factor value of the diode was found to be 1.8. This n value of the diode implies a deviation from ideal junction behaviour. The barrier height #phi#_b value for the diode was found to be 0.56 eV. The Ag/Pani-H_3PO_4-SrTiO_3/Al diode shows a photovoltaic behaviour with a maximum open-circuit voltage V_o_c of 2.49 V, and short-circuit current I_s_c of 5.6 mA under light illumination #lambda# = 460 nm. The conversion efficiency was found to be 5.2%. It is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Deregulation of the electric power industry in Alberta holds the prospect of providing greater choice for customers. One such option will be `green power` which is provided by renewable energy technologies. The energy produced would be without environmental impacts such as air emissions, water pollution, flooding, thermal emissions or waste by-products. Wind power, small scale hydro power, photovoltaics and biomass technologies have been termed as `green power`. The choices that customers make will not be focused on price alone. Market forces are emerging to demand reduction in emissions which will result in a market for `green energy` products and facilitate achieving goals for a sustainable future.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report beings with a historical overview on the origin and early beginnings of Radiant Energy Power Source for Jet Aircraft. The report reviews the work done in Phase I (Grant DE-FG01-82CE-15144) and then gives a discussion of Phase II (Grant DE-FG01-86CE-15301). Included is a reasonably detailed discussion of photovoltaic cells and the research and development needed in this area. The report closes with a historical perspective and summary related to situations historically encountered on projects of this nature. 15 refs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Atmospheric pressure plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition system is built. The electrical and optical characteristics of the APPECVD system is given. The system is used to deposit conductive polymers and nano composites onto glass and metal surfaces. The morphological, optical, chemical and electrical characteristics of deposited surfaces are investigated using SEM, AFM four probe deposition purposes. The photovoltaic applications of plasma deposited polymers and nonconsumption are compared with deposited with electrochemical methods show different results. The electrical, chemical and morphological structures of the samples will be given.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This proceedings volume contains contributions by about 70 authors on market trends, funding, marketing, boundary conditions and sales promotion of thermal solar energy and photovoltaic systems. The contributions reflect the diversity of authors, e.g. consultants, advocates and agents of solar technology producers and financial organisations. Central issues were markets in and outside Europe, quality assurance, interdepartmental cooperations, and marketing strategies of the solar industry. The proceedings volume also contains the conference schedule and self-descriptions of the authors' institutions. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper presents a technical feasibility study project for the large scale rooftop photovoltaics (PV) grid connected system at Charoenphol-Rama I green building super store of TESCO LOTUS (TL) in Thailand. The objective of this project is (i) to study the technical feasibility of installation 350 kWp PV systems on the top of the roof in this site (ii) and to determine the energy produce from this system. The technical factors are examined using a computerized PVS 2000 simulation and assessment tool. This super store building located in Bangkok, with latitude 14 N, longitude 100 E and the building direction is 16 from North direction. The building roof area is 14,000 m2; with 3 degree face East and 3 degree face West pitch. Average daily solar energy in this area is approximately 5.0 kWh. The study team for this project consists of educational institution as School of Renewable Energy Technology (SERT) and private institution as Panya Consultants (PC). TL is the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) assembled in hydrophobic domain by fatty acid with long alkyl hydrocarbon chain such as myristic acid (Myr), stearic acid (Ste) and cholic acid (Cho) modified onto nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} electrode is prepared and the photovoltaic properties of the nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} film by Chl-a are studied. Incident photon to current efficiency (IPCE) value at 660 nm in photocurrent action spectrum of Chl-a/Ste-TiO{sub 2}, Chl-a/Myr-TiO{sub 2} and Chl-a/Cho-TiO{sub 2} electrodes are 5.0%, 4.1% and 4.1%, respectively. Thus, the IPCE is maximum using Chl-a/Ste-TiO{sub 2} electrode. From the results of photocurrent responses with light intensity of 100 mW cm{sup -2} irradiation or monochromatic light with 660 nm, generated photocurrent increases using Chl-a/Ste-TiO{sub 2} electrode compared with the other Chl-a assembled TiO{sub 2} electrodes. These results show that the hydrophobic domain formed by stearic acid with long alkyl hydrocarbon chain is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of the present study was to examine the in vitro effects of low-dose cadmium (Cd) on developing cortical cells. The cortical cells removed from fetuses (embryonic day 15) were treated with 10 nM of Cd for 24 h. The effects of Cd on dendritic and synaptic development were immunocytochemically observed with anti-microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP2) and anti-synapsin I antibodies, respectively. Administration of Cd suppressed dendritic as well as synaptic development at 10 nM. By two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC/MS/MS) analysis, we identified three proteins with different expression after Cd-treatment; dihydropyrimidinase-related protein 2 (DRP-2/CRMP-2), 14-3-3-epsillon and calmodulin (CaM). Though the number of identified proteins was small, these proteins are known to be involved in neuronal development. The present study demonstrated the morphological effects as well as affected proteins in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Samples of air-dust-concentration- and air-dust-deposit measurements were digested by a standardized wet digestion procedure and the amounts of substances in the dust according to class I TA Luft by Atomic Emission Spectroscopy with Inductively Coupled Plasma (AES-ICP). The characteristic values for procedures according to VDI 2449, sheet 1, were determined for lead, vanadium, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel and zinc. By partial automatic control of the digestion procedure the personel expenditure of work could be reduced by a factor 13. Dust filter samples were analysed without sample preparation by evaporating the material with a solid state laser. The absolute detection limit was between 1 and 100 ng/cm"2 for the elements arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, mercury, antimony, selen and thallium. For sampling by means of the Beta-Staubmeter the relative detection limits for the laser-ICP were 10-fold lower than by use of a nebulizer. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nickel cadmium batteries differ greatly in their mechanical design and construction of the electrodes. Using available electrode constructions, batteries are designed which meet the requirements of specific applications and offer optimum performance. Pocket- and tubular cells are basically developed with the technology of the year 1895. Since then some improvements with todays technology have been made. The sintered cells use the technology of the 1930's and they are still limited to high power application. With this knowledge and the technology of today the fiber-structured nickel electrode (FNC) was developed at DAUG laboratory, a subsidiary company of Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. After ten years of experience in light weight prototype batteries for electric vehicles (1-2), the system was brought into production by a new company, DAUG-HOPPECKE. Characteristics of fiber electrodes: thickness and size can be easily changed; pure active materials are used; high ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To reconstruct the profiles of heavy metal levels in the South Ocean ecosystem of Antarctica, the concentrations of lead (Pb), copper (Cu), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) in seal hairs and lake sediments spanning the past 1500 years from Fildes Peninsula of King George Island and in weathering lake sediments from Nelson Island of West Antarctica were determined. The lead contents in the seal hairs and the weathering sediments show a sharp increase since the late 1800s, very likely due to anthropogenic contamination from modern industries. After the 1980s, the Pb content in seal hairs dropped by one-third, apparently due to the reduced usage of leaded gasoline in the Southern Hemisphere. Copper arises mainly from the weathering process, and its level may be substantially affected by climatic conditions. The concentrations of Cd, As, and Zn do not show any clear temporal trends.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Single-crystalline cadmium selenide nanoparticles were obtained using high-temperature solution phase synthesis (HTSPS) synthesis. X-Ray powder diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were used to confirm the crystallinity and morphology of the resulting nanoparticles. To study the action of CdSe on antioxidant activity, we selected two biotechnological important strains of microalgae: cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis and red microalgae Porphyridium cruentum. In the case of Porphyridium cruentum, the obtained results demonstrated an increase in the productivity. For Spirulina platensis, the presence of the compound in the cultivating medium decreased the productivity of cyanobacteria.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A number of herbal drugs are used in the Unani (Greco-Arab) System of Medicine for cardiovascular diseases. The herbs were analyzed by flame AAS and ICP-AES to determine if their therapeutic actions can be associated with the elements present in them. Cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, sodium, nickel, phosphorus, lead and zinc were some of the elements which play various roles in cardiovascular affections. An effort was made to correlate the role of these elements in cardiac diseases. (Auth.). 2 tabs., 32 refs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of the present research is to find a suitable technique to measure trace amounts of uranium and thorium and to determine the surface #alpha#-flux in silicon compound (SiO) used for fabrication of integrated circuit packaging materials. Among several commonly-used detecting techniques, it was found that neutron activation analysis (NAA) was most promising. The results from NAA show a large difference in uranium and thorium concentrations when cadmium and boron carbide shields are used, whereas #alpha#-flux measurements show a low #alpha#-activity, which corresponds to the trace amounts of uranium and thorium expected to be present in these materials. (author) 13 refs.; 6 figs.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Introduction - It is estimated that about 70-80% of the world's population relies on non-conventional medicine, mainly of herbal origin. However, owing to the nature and sources of herbal medicines, they are sometimes contaminated with toxic heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium, which impose serious health risks to consumers. It is critical to analyse source materials for heavy metals in order to ensure that their concentrations meet the related standards or regulations limiting their concentrations in herbal medicines. In this review, different analytical methods for analysis of heavy metals in herbal medicines are discussed. Objective - To provide a comprehensive review of the current state of the art in analytical methods used to detect heavy metals in herbal...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The number of reports concerning the chemical toxicology of metals which are released in the environment by natural as well as anthropogenic sources, have been increasing constantly. Lead, cadmium, and manganese have found a variety of uses in industry, craft, and agriculture owing to their physical and chemical properties. The environmental burden of heavy metals has been rising substantially by smelter emission in air and waste sewage in water. Further, organic compounds of lead and manganese used as antiknock substances in gasoline are emitted into the atmosphere by automobile exhaustion. Such environmental contamination of air, water, soil, and food is a serious threat to all living kinds. Although these metals are known to produce their toxic effects on a variety of body systems, much emphasis has been placed on their effects on the nervous system owing to apparent association of relatively low or ''subclinical'' levels of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An embodiment of a mercury-free fluorescent lamp combines a low pressure rare gas discharges with a phosphor having a quantum efficiency grater than one. The choice of the rare gas depends on a number of factors, one of which is the resonance transition energy. Less demand is placed the quantum efficiency of the phosphor for a lower energy resonance photon. Xenon has the lowest energy resonance transition of the stable rare gases at 8.5 eV (147 nm) and thus is a good candidate to study. The usefulness of a xenon-based discharge depends on the radiant emittance of the discharge at the resonance wavelength of 147 nm. The radiant emittance from a low pressure xenon positive column discharge is measured using two independent techniques. The first relies on the measurement of the resonance level density using absorption techniques. The effective decay rate of the resonance level is calculated using radiation trapping theory. The product of this density and trapped decay rate yields the ...

Science.gov (United States)

One of the NASA research activities was to identify, characterize, and simulate a series of technologies that could be used for hydrogen production at NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) using locally available sources. This project examined the production of hydrogen from solar energy. To produce hydrogen by water splitting, the operating voltage of conventional photovoltaic (PV) cells cannot supply the overvoltage required. Thus, the objective of this project was to research and develop photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells that can supply the required voltage for water splitting by constructing a multiple bandgap tandem PV cell and a photocatalyst that can be activated by infrared (IR) photons transmitted through the PV cell. The proposed concept is different from conventional PEC water splitting by using multiple band gap combinations. The advantages for this PEC cell concept is that the PV cells are not in contact with the electrolyte solution, thus reducing the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Beginning with an overview of renewable energy sources including biomass, hydroelectricity, geothermal, tidal, wind and solar power, this book explores the fundamentals of different renewable energy systems. The main focus is on technologies with high development potential such as solar thermal systems, photovoltaics and wind power. This text not only describes technological aspects, but also deals consciously with problems of the energy industry. In this way, the topics are treated in a holistic manner, bringing together maths, engineering, climate studies and economics, and enabling readers to gain a broad understanding of renewable energy technologies and their potential. The book also contains a free CD-ROM resource, which includes a variety of specialist simulation software and detailed figures from the book. (Author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Direct current motors are used in photovoltaic systems. Important characteristics of electric motors are the starting to rated current and the torque ratios. These ratios are dictated by the size of the solar cell array and are different for the various dc motor types. The paper deals with the calculation of the starting to rated current ratio and starting to rated torque ratio of the permanent magnet, separately, series and shunt excited motors when powered by solar cells for the two cases: where (1) the system includes a maximum-power-point-tracker (MPPT) and (2) without an MPPT. Comparing these two cases, one gets a torque magnification of about 3 for the permanent magnet motor and about 7 for other motor types at rated design insolation. The calculation of the torques may assist the PV system designer to determine the advantage of including an MPPT in the system as far as the starting characteristics of the dc motors are concerned.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Simple frameworks have been developed for estimating the utilization potential of: (a) solar photovoltaic (SPV) pumps; (b) windmill pumps; (c) producer gas based dual fuel engine pumps; and (d) biogas based dual fuel engine pumps for irrigation water pumping in India. The approach takes into account factors such as: solar radiation intensity, wind speed, availability of bovine dung and agri-residues, and their alternative uses, ground water requirements for irrigation and its availability, affordability, and propensity of the users to invest in renewable energy devices, etc. SPV pumps are estimated to have the maximum utilization potential in India, followed by windmill pumps. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) converters were developed and tested at the heat source operating temperature of 1,700 K. Rare-earth-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) and lutetium yttrium aluminum garnet (Lu, YAG) selective emitters, as well as a blackbody emitter, were coupled to InGaAs/InP photovoltaic (PV) cells and bandpass/infrared (IR) reflector filters. YAG-based selective emitters were adopted with Ho, Tm, and Er. PV cells had bandgaps of 0.51, 0.57, and 0.69 eV. Converter energy conversion efficiencies approaching 30%, as well as electrical output power densities near 2 W/cm{sup 2} were demonstrated. The overall performance of the filtered blackbody-based converter was found to be superior to the selective emitter YAG-based converters. The details of the measurements performed on the above converters and their individual components are presented.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An attempt to develop a simple framework for financial evaluation of renewable energy technologies (RETs) such as photovoltaic (PV) pump, windmill pump, biogas and producer gas-driven dual fuel engine pumps for irrigation water pumping has been made. The unit cost of water and unit cost of useful energy delivered by the RETs have been estimated. The monetary benefits that accrued to the end-user have been quantified in terms of the amount of diesel or electricity saved. Financial figures of merit for the investments made in the RETs have been estimated. The effect of fuel price escalation on these measures of financial performance has also been evaluated along with the estimation of the break-even prices of fuels likely to be substituted by RETs. Results of some exemplifying calculations are presented and briefly discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An electrochemistry model was developed to analyse the J-V characteristics of a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) water electrolyzer for hydrogen production. The Butler-Volmer equation and water transport characteristics through electrolyte membrane were employed to simulate the electrode activation over-potential and membrane ohmic over-potential, respectively. The modeling results are found to agree reasonably well with experimental data published in the literature. The parametric simulations show that the ohmic over-potential is relatively small with typical water content in the membrane. Compared with the cathode over-potential, the anode over-potential is more significant and constitutes the major source of voltage loss. The high anode over-potential is due to the relatively slow oxidation kinetics, which is related to anode material property and microstructure. This model can be integrated with a photovoltaic or wind turbine model to predict the performance of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A 150 Watt thermophotovoltaic (TPV) power generator is being developed. The technical approach taken in the design focused on optimizing the integrated performance of the primary subsystems in order to yield high energy conversion efficiency and cost effectiveness. An important aspect of the approach is the use of a selective emitter radiating to a bandgap matched photovoltaic array to minimize thermal and optical recuperation requirements, as well as the non-recoverable heat losses. For the initial prototype system, fibrous ytterbia emitters radiating in a band centered at 980 nm are matched with high efficiency silicon photoconverters. The integrated system includes a dielectric stack filter for optical energy recovery and a ceramic recuperator for thermal energy recovery. The system has been operated with air preheat temperatures up to 1350K. The design of the system and development status are presented. {copyright} {ital 1997 American Institute of Physics.}

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The aims of this study were (a) to assess blood cadmium (B-Cd) concentrations and to establish a tentative reference interval; (b) to identify significant determinants of B-Cd, in a population from Umbria, Central Italy, which was not occupationally exposed to cadmium (Cd). Four hundred and thirty-four healthy blood-donors volunteered to answer a questionnaire and provide a blood sample for B-Cd analysis, which was performed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Blood Cd concentrations ranged from non-detectable values, i.e. below 0.1 {mu}g/l up to 3.4 {mu}g/l and were not normally distributed. The median values and the 95th percentiles were 0.7 and 2.0 {mu}g/l, respectively. Concentrations of B-Cd were more than double in smokers than in non-smokers, median values being 1.1 {mu}g/l and 0.5 {mu}g/l, respectively. In current smokers, B-Cd values correlated with the number of cigarettes smoked daily (r{sub s}=0.40, P=0.0001) ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Environmental regulations can have a significant impact on product use, disposal, and recycling. This report summarizes the basic aspects of current federal, state and international regulations which apply to end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) modules and PV manufacturing scrap destined for disposal or recycling. It also discusses proposed regulations for electronics that may set the ground of what is to be expected in this area in the near future. In the US, several states have started programs to support the recycling of electronic equipment, and materials destined for recycling often are excepted from solid waste regulations during the collection, transfer, storage and processing stages. California regulations are described separately because they are different from those of most other states. International agreements on the movement of waste between different countries may pose barriers to cross-border shipments. Currently waste moves freely among country members of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We report on studies of device degradation in organic photovoltaic devices based on blends of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). Since delamination, oxidation, and chemical interactions at the metal electrode/organic interface have long been posited as degradation pathways in organic electronic devices, we first investigated the stability of a variety of electrodes for devices stored in an inert, dark environment. Second, a set of experiments was designed to separate the effects at the metal/organic interface from the degradation of the active layer or the hole extraction interface. To do this, Ca/Al electrodes were deposited to complete half of a substrate's devices, and samples were left both under constant illumination and 10% illumination (10% duty cycle of 1 sun illumination) in a glovebox environment. After more than 200 h of measurement, additional electrodes were deposited and device performance of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The ternary compound CuInS2 is attractive for solar cells due to its band gap of 1.54 eV which borders the optimum value necessary for conversion of a solar spectrum. Recently, works on thin film cells based on this material (ZnO/CuInS2) has been reported to show efficiency as high as 11.4%. In this paper, the orientation and the morphology of CuInS2 sprayed films are determined by the means of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Sprayed CuInS2 films deposited onto a transparent Pyrex substrate with standard fabrication parameters show a chalcopyrite structure with a preferential orientation (1 1 2). A model based on the calculation of the relative dielectric function ? has been performed in order to obtain the profile of variation of this parameter and to understand the optical behavior of this material via its transmittance and reflectance in visible and near-infrared regions (0.35-2.5 ?m). In the same way, considering the inhomogeneous material CuInS2 containing air ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper reported the results of fiscal 1994 studies on solar energy in the New Sunshine Project. Relating to the technical development for the practical use of photovoltaic power systems, the development of manufacturing technologies for low-cost substrates and the development of element technology for manufacturing low-cost polycrystalline cells/modules were reported as the development of technology for thin substrate polycrystalline solar cells for practical use. As to the research on fabrication technology for thin film solar cells for practical use, reports were made on the research on low-cost fabrication technology for large-area modules and the technological development for qualitative improvement, etc. In respect to the technological development for super-high efficiency solar cells, reported were the technological development for super-high efficiency single crystalline silicon solar cells and the technological development for crystalline compound solar ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The thermophotovoltaic (TPV) option was not selected for further deep space mission technology development in NASA for several reasons. Chief among them was the large radiator required to keep the photovoltaic cells at a sufficiently low operating temperature. This led to significant integration problems with the spacecraft and limited sensor view angles. It is clear that the issue of cell temperature is crucial for space applications because of radiator size and system impact. Many efforts have focused on matching cell band gap to appropriate emitters in the 1 to 2 {mu}m range, resulting in band gaps in the 0.5 to 0.8 eV range. However, low band gaps lead to low open circuit voltages ({approximately}0.25 to 0.45 V) caused by high intrinsic carrier concentrations (n{sub i}{sup 2}). Thus, in order to obtain high performance. Photovoltaic cell temperatures must be kept near room temperature. This leads to the inevitable consequence of very large ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Performance of electric vehicles (EVs) is being studied in an ongoing Site Operator Program, as part of the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Program supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). More than 200 EVs are being operated by Site Operators in various geographical and climatic regions of the United States. Cold-weather operation of EVs is of particular interest. As expected, low temperatures affect a battery`s ability to accept a charge, which decreases EV range and increases operating costs. Battery types other than lead-acid are being evaluated such as nickel-iron, gelled electrolyte lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and sodium-sulfur. Also, improved methods of collecting EV performance data are being implemented, thermal management systems are being tested, and a prototype ultracapacitor is being tested as a possible alternative to conventional batteries.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We collected female greater scaup (Aythya marila) on the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska during two breeding seasons to determine if concentrations of 18 trace elements in livers and eggs were elevated and if hepatic concentrations correlated with body condition or affected reproductive status. Fifty-six percent, 5%, and 42% of females, respectively, had elevated hepatic cadmium (Cd: >3mgg-1 dry weight [dw]), mercury (Hg: >3mgg-1dw), and selenium (Se: >10mgg-1dw). Somatic protein and lipid reserves were not correlated with hepatic Cd or Hg, but there was a weak negative correlation between protein and Se. Hepatic Cd, Hg, and Se were similar in females that had and had not initiated egg production. In a sample of six eggs, 33% and 100%, respectively, contained Se and Hg, but concentrations we...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This pilot project was carried out for the purpose of testing methods for active biological monitoring. It covered a period of three years (until September 1994), including two years of exposure. The measurements served to determine pollutant levels in plants used as animal fodder and dust-borne heavy metal concentrations in different sites and, on this basis, to obtain indirect information on human exposure. Among others, the pilot project investigated the suitability of Italian rye-grass as a biological indicator for aluminium, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, mercury, magnesium, manganese, nickel, lead, platinum, antimony, titanium, and zinc. (orig./GL).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Visualization of a liquid metal flow and image processing methods to measure the vector field are carried out by real-time neutron radiography. The JRR-3M real-time thermal neutron radiography facility in the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute was used. Lead-bismuth eutectic was used as a working fluid. Particles made from a gold-cadmium intermetallic compound (AuCd_3) were used as the tracer for the visualization. The flow vector field was obtained by image processing methods. It was shown that the liquid metal flow vector field was obtainable by real-time neutron radiography when the attenuation of neutron rays due to the liquid metal was less than l/e and the particle size of the tracer was larger than one image element size digitized for the image processing. (orig.).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Previous studies indicate that the hatching success of brine shrimp (Artemia franciscana) cysts is surprisingly sensitive to ambient metal concentrations. These studies estimated median effective concentrations (EC50s) of 7, 5, and 28??g l?1 for Cd, Cu, and Zn, suggesting that the hatching end point for A. franciscana is the most sensitive tested to date for Cd and Zn in saline environments and comparable in sensitivity with the most sensitive tested to date for Cu. Furthermore, these data suggest that brine shrimp are at significant risk from Cu and Zn in Great Salt Lake (GSL), UT, where ambient concentrations as high as 10 and 14??g l?1, respectively, have been measured. Given that brine shrimp appear to be successfully reproducing in GSL, we hypothesized that these toxicity values were ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes the requirements, designs, performance, and development histories for the T1576 power supply and the MC3935 rechargeable battery. These devices are used to power Permissive Action Link (PAL) ground controllers. The T1576 consists of a stainless steel container, one SA3553 connector, and one MC3935 battery. The MC3935 is a vented nickel/cadmium battery with 24 cells connected in series. It was designed to deliver 5.5 Amp-hours at 25{number_sign}C and the one-hour rate, with a nominal voltage of 28 V. The battery was designed to operate for 5 years or 500 full charge/discharge cycles. The power supply is expected to last indefinitely with replacement batteries and hardware.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A fundamental study of the application of bacteria to the recovery of toxic heavy metals from aqueous environments was carried out. The biosorption characteristics of cadmium and lead ions were determined with purple nonsulfur bacteria, Rhodobacter sphaeroides and hydrogen bacteria, Alcaligenes eutrophus H16 that were inactivated by steam sterilization. A simplified version of the metal binding model proposed by Plette et al. was used for the description of meal binding data. The results showed that the biosorption of bivalent metal ions to whole cell bodies of the bacteria was due to monodentate binding to two different types of acidic sites: carboxilic and phosphatic-type sites. The number of metal binding sites of A. eutrophus was 2.4-fold larger than that of R. sphaeroides.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Emission inventories were estimated for the airborne emissions of: Arsenic, Beryllium, Cadmium, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Mercury, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Lead, Antimony, Selenium, Tellur, Thallium, Zinc, Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium, Tin. The inventories were made for the status of 1985 and 1990. A prognosis was given for 1995. The investigations were made for the whole area of the Federal Republic of Germany including the former German Democratic Republic. Working point was an overview about the plant-specific emissions for the various industrial branches and the production statistics. The results are given as total emissions from the existing plants and industrial branches. (orig.) [Deutsch] Es erfolgte eine Abschaetzung der luftseitigen Emissionen fuer die Elemente: Arsen, Beryllium, Cadmium, Chrom, Kobalt, Kupfer, Quecksilber, Mangan, Molybdaen, Nickel, Blei, Antimon, Selen, Tellur, Thallium, Zink, Platin, Palladium, Rhodium und ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The ash of biomass fuels was analysed in order to identify its inorganic chemical characteristics. The experiments were carried out using different methods of extraction. The accuracy of the measurements was verified by comparative analyses using certified samples. The composition was shown to vary with the fuel type and ash fraction. In the case of arsenic and the toxic heavy metals cadmium, mercury and lead, accumulation factors of 1.4 to 43 were measured in the tissue filter ash. [German] Fuer die Bestimmung der stofflichen Eigenschaften von Biobrennstoffaschen werden neben der fuer die Ermittlung von Stoffbilanzen notwendigen Analyse der Gesamtgehalte, in Abhaengigkeit von der Zielsetzung und den gesetzlichen Vorgaben, unterschiedliche Extraktionsverfahren eingesetzt. Fuer die Gesamtgehaltsbestimmung wurden aus laborinternen Wiederholungsuntersuchungen sowie einem laborexternen Analysenvergleich Kenngroessen fuer die Praezision und Richtigkeit abgeleitet. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Since 1984 the Environmental Protection Agency (LfU) of the State of Baden-Wuerttemberg has been investigating the heavy metal burden of earthworms from representative long-term forest observation plots. These investigations are aimed at elucidating and assessing adverse effects of pollutants on the soil biocenosis. Methods: At first only lead and cadmium were measured in the worms; in repetitive measurements over the years further metals or metalloid elements such as aluminum, arsenic, chromium, cobalt, copper, manganese, mercury, nickel, thallium, vanadium, and zinc were added to the agenda. Results and conclusion: The frequency distribution of the metals in the earthworms was characterized statistically. For the first time state-wide background values, normal values and threshold values were established for all the elements measured. A comparable study with a similar range of parameters is known neither nationally nor internationally. Time trend studies have ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perinatal exposure to cadmium (Cd) or methylmercury (MeHg) results in impaired neurodevelopment. Thyroid hormone is essential for normal brain development. However, the issue whether Cd or MeHg, especially at low doses, interrupts thyroid hormone action remains to be investigated. In the present study, effects of perinatal exposure to low levels of Cd or MeHg on thyroid hormone metabolism were examined using metallothionein I and II (MT-I/II) null or wild-type neonatal mice. Dams were exposed to 10 mg/L water of Cd or 5 mg/kg chow of MeHg from gestational day 0 to post-natal day 10 (PND 10). Sera, livers and brains were collected from neonates on PND 10. Iodothyronine deiodinase activities and serum thyroxine (T4) concentrations were measured. MeHg exposure failed to induce changes in serum T4 levels and liver type 1 deiodinase (D1) and brain type 2 deiodinase (D2) activities regardless of the MT genotype. However, exposure to MeHg resulted in a decrease in brain ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To evaluate the role of phytochelatins and metallothioneins in heavy metal tolerance of black mangrove Avicennia germinans, 3-month-old seedlings were exposed to cadmium or copper for 30 h, under hydroponic conditions. Degenerate Mt2 and PCS primers were synthesized based on amino acid and nucleotide alignment sequences reported for Mt2 and PCS in other plant species found in GenBank. Total RNA was isolated from A. germinans leaves and two partial fragments of metallothionein and phytochelatin synthase genes were isolated. Gene expression was evaluated with reverse transcripatase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) amplification technique. Temporal analysis showed that low Cd"2"+ and Cu"2"+ concentrations caused a slight (but not significant) increase in AvMt2 expression after a 16 h exposure time, while AvPCS expression showed a significant increase under the same conditions but only after 4 h. Results strongly suggest that the rapid increase in AvPCS expression ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Only within the past decade has the potential of metal biosorption by biomass materials been well established. For economic reasons, of particular interest are abundant biomass types generated as a waste byproduct of large-scale industrial fermentations or certain metal-binding algae found in large quantities in the sea. These biomass types serve as a basis for newly developed metal biosorption processes foreseen particularly as a very competitive means for the detoxification of metal-bearing industrial effluents. The assessment of the metal-building capacity of some new biosorbents is discussed. Lead and cadmium, for instance, have been effectively removed from very dilute solutions by the dried biomass of some ubiquitous species of brown marine algae such as Ascophyllum and Sargassum, which accumulate more than 30% of biomass dry weight in the metal. Mycelia of the industrial steroid-transforming fungi Rhizopus and Absidia are excellent biosorbents for lead, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Recent advances in thin film solar photovoltaic converters (PV's) can furnish multimegawatt power levels during lunar daylight periods with only modest mass requirements. The extended duration of lunar night (ca. 354 hr) and the high specific mass of earth-imported energy storage systems (regenerative fuel cells, batteries, etc.) render PV plus import storage power systems non-competitive with nuclear power plants for lunar bases. However, power storage or generation methods which can be constructed using primarily lunar materials, used either alone or with lightweight PV's, can be attractive alternatives to nuclear power. Three separate generic systems which can provide favorable low import mass goals have been identified and studied. These are: gravitational energy generation using lunar soil, thermal energy storage using basalt rock or glass, and electrochemical storage using lunar derived electrodes or fuels. Design, structural and operational features of these ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We have developed a chemical process for incorporating copper into indium gallium selenide layers with the goal of creating a precursor structure for the formation of copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) photovoltaic absorbers. Stylus profilometry, EDX, Raman spectroscopy, XRD and SIMS measurements show that when indium gallium selenide layers are immersed in a hot copper chloride solution, copper is incorporated as copper selenide with no increase in the thickness of the layers. Further measurements show that annealing this precursor structure in the presence of selenium results in the formation of CIGS and that the supply of selenium during the annealing process has a strong effect on the morphology and preferred orientation of these layers. When the supply of Se during annealing begins only once the substrate temperature reaches ? 400 deg. C , the resulting CIGS layers are smoother and have more pronounced preferred orientation than when Se is supplied ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this contract is to design and build a small, lightweight, stand-alone thermophotovoltaic electric generator, capable of at least 100 Watts useful output for charging 24V batteries. The prototype generator built consists of a pre-mixed burner, a cylindrical selective emitter mantle surrounded by six silicon photovoltaic concentrator arrays. The arrays are cooled with forced-air heat exchangers using self-powered fans. The generator, operated at 117,00 W (40,000 BTU/hr) of fuel input rate, produces 122 W of electrical power at 1.0% of efficiency. The cooling and pre-mix fans consume 35 W of electrical power resulting in a net 85 Watts of electrical output for charging batteries. The generator`s output is capable of continuous charging five 12/24V batteries over 10 hours with a 9.07 Kg (20 lbs.) of propane gas.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The contribution outlines the current status of the building construction projects for the German Bundestag in Berlin. The following subjects are discussed: Energetic quality of the building, energy supply concept, integrated energy supply system, electric CHP systems, cogeneration (vegetable oil), aquifer storage (heat storage, cold storage), solar energy (photovoltaic energy conversion, thermal solar energy use), economic and ecological aspects. (HW) [Deutsch] Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Ueberblick ueber den aktuellen Stand des Bauvorhabens des Deutschen Bundestages in Berlin. In diesem Zusammenhang wird auf folgende Themen eingegangen: Energetische Gebaeudequalitaet, Energieversorgungskonzept, Energieverbund, stromgefuehrte BHKWs, Kraft-Waerme-Kopplung (Pflanzenoel), Aquiferspeicher (Waermespeicher, Kaeltespeicher), Sonnenergienutzung (Photovoltaik, thermische Solarenergienutzung), Wirtschaftlichkeit und Oekologie. (HW)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Support for raising energy efficiency is reported for the following five areas during 1998-2001: 1. Fuel-based energy systems with the sub-areas: Sustainable production of biofuels, including ash recycling; Cogeneration; and Large scale heat production. 2. Transport with two sub-areas: Internal combustion engines; and Electric drive-lines. 3. Power production/Power technology with the sub-areas: Hydropower; Wind power; Power transmission and distribution; and Photovoltaic solar cells. 4. Industry with the sub-areas: Processes; and Support systems in industry. 5. Buildings with the sub-areas: Heating, cooling and climatic shields; and Components and support systems. In total, 1,800 M SEK (about 180 M USD) was contributed by the Energy Administration during this period. An overview of the projects is presented in this report.

Science.gov (United States)

We prepared submicron-scale spherical hollow particles of anatase TiO2 by using a polystyrene-bead template. The obtained particles were very uniform in size, with a diameter of 490 nm and a shell thickness of 30 nm. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area measurements revealed a large value of 70 m2/g. The photocatalytic property was investigated by the complete decomposition of gaseous isopropyl alcohol under UV irradiation. It was indicated that the activity of the hollow spheres was 1.8 times higher than that of the conventional P25 TiO2 nanoparticles with a diameter of 30 nm. Furthermore, we fabricated a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSC) using an electrode of the TiO2 hollow spheres, and examined the photovoltaic performance under simulated sunlight. Although the per-area efficiency was rather low (1.26%) because of a low area density of TiO2 on the electrode, the per-weight efficiency was 2.5 times higher than those of the conventional DSCs of TiO2. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This proceedings is the compilation of papers presented at the ninth PV Performance and Reliability Workshop held at the Sheraton Denver West Hotel on September 4--6, 1996. This years workshop included presentations from 25 speakers and had over 100 attendees. All of the presentations that were given are included in this proceedings. Topics of the papers included: defining service lifetime and developing models for PV module lifetime; examining and determining failure and degradation mechanisms in PV modules; combining IEEE/IEC/UL testing procedures; AC module performance and reliability testing; inverter reliability/qualification testing; standardization of utility interconnect requirements for PV systems; need activities to separate variables by testing individual components of PV systems (e.g. cells, modules, batteries, inverters,charge controllers) for individual reliability and then test them in actual system configurations; more results reported from field experience on modules, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One of the most challenging topics in the area of organic electronic devices is the growth of transparent electrodes onto flexible polymeric substrates that will be characterized by enhanced conductivity in combination with high optical transparency. An essential aspect for these materials is their synthesis and/or microstructure which define the transparency, the stability and the interfacial chemistry which in turn determine the performance and stability of the organic electronic devices, such as organic light emitting diodes, organic photovoltaics, etc. In this work, we will discuss the latest advances in the growth of organic (e.g. PEDOT:PSS) and inorganic (e.g. zinc oxide-ZnO, indium tin oxide-ITO) conductive materials and their deposition onto flexible polymeric substrates. We will compare the optical, structural, nano-mechanical and nano-topographical properties of the inorganic and organic materials and we investigate the effect of their structure on their ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A preliminary design effort directed toward a low concentration ratio photovoltaic array system based on 1984 technology and capable of delivering multi-hundred kilowatts (300 kW to 100 kW range) in low Earth orbit is described. The array system consists of two or more array modules each capable of delivering between 113 kW to 175 kW using silicon solar cells or gallium arsenide solar cells, respectively. The array module deployed area is 1320 square meters and consists of 4356 pyramidal concentrator elements. The module, when stowed in the Space Shuttle's payload bay, has a stowage volume of a cube with 3.24 meters on a side. The concentrator elements are sized for a geometric concentration ratio (GCR) of six with an aperture area of 0.5 meters x 0.5 meters. Drawings for the preliminary design configuration and for the test hardware that was fabricated for design evaluation and test are provided.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two novel organic n-type semiconductors are investigated due to their function as electron acceptor for applications in organic electronic devices to widen the knowledge of how molecule structure influences the excitation processes in organic electronics. Bispyrenylfullerene and Octadecyl-Capronacidesterfullerene are C{sub 60} derivates with sidechains more featured compared to the commonly used[6,6] phenyl-C{sub 61}-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). In bulk heterojunction devices regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) was used as donor. The materials, pristine and in blend, were studied in view of light absorption, their quenching abilities of the P3HT photoluminescence as well as excited states. Furthermore, the spin state of the excited states was determined by light-induced electron spin resonance. Combining these complimentary experimental techniques, we obtained information on the generation of excited states, their nature, and the efficiency of the subsequent charge carrier ...

Science.gov (United States)

The specification describes a semiconductor solar cell and fabrication process therefor wherein a thin N-type gallium arsenide layer is deposited on a larger P-type substrate layer which is selected from the group of III-V ternary compounds consisting of aluminum phosphide antimonide, AlPSb, and aluminum indium phosphide, AlInP. P-type impurities are diffused from the substrate layer into a portion of the thin N-type gallium arsenide layer to form P-type region wherein which defines a PN junction in the thin gallium arsenide layer. Thus, the quantity of gallium arsenide required to provide this PN photovoltaic junction layer in the cell is minimized, and th P-type substrate serves as a high bandgap window layer for the cell. Such high bandgap of this window material is especially well suited for efficiently transmitting the blue spectrum of sunlight to the PN junction, thus enhancing the power conversion efficiency of the solar cell.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In processes of this invention aqueous waste solutions containing a variety of mixed waste contaminants are treated to remove the contaminants by a sequential addition of chemicals and adsorption/ion exchange powdered materials to remove the contaminants including lead, cadmium, uranium, cesium-137, strontium-85/90, trichloroethylene and benzene, and impurities including iron and calcium. Staged conditioning of the waste solution produces a polydisperse system of size enlarged complexes of the contaminants in three distinct configurations: water-soluble metal complexes, insoluble metal precipitation complexes, and contaminant-bearing particles of ion exchange and adsorbent materials. The volume of the waste is reduced by separation of the polydisperse system by cross-flow microfiltration, followed by low-temperature evaporation and/or filter pressing. The water produced as filtrate is discharged if it meets a specified target water quality, or else the filtrate is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uranium-aluminum alloys with a significant enrichment of uranium with "2"3"3U or "2"3"5U serve as nuclear fuels in research reactors. The quality assurance of this fuel requires, among other things, precise knowledge that all trace metal constituents that affect neutron economy, fuel integrity, and fuel fabrication process parameters are well within the specification limits. Trace metal characterization of "2"3"5U-Al alloy has been carried out by atomic spectrometry. The trace metal constituents of interest are grouped into common metals (silver, boron, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, sodium, nickel, lead, silicon, tin, titanium, vanadium, tungsten, and zinc) and lanthanides (cerium, dysprosium, europium, gadolinium, holminium, lutetium, samarium, and terbium). The elements yttrium and zirconium are grouped with the latter in view of the chemical separation procedure used. The alloy samples are dissolved in 6 M ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The 540 MWe PHWR has two fully independent shutdown systems. The first shutdown system (SDS-1) comprises of 28 spring assisted, vertical gravity drop shut-off rods, each consisting of a cadmium absorber sandwiched between stainless steel tubes. The second shutdown system (SDS-2) constitutes six poison tanks connected to respective zircaloy injection tubes. This system is capable of high speed injection of gadolinium nitrate solution (in D2O) into the moderator through these tubes. Theoretical estimation was carried out at different injection pressures and different concentration of gadolinium nitrate solution to arrive at the limiting value of these parameters from reactivity consideration point of view. The plant measurements of SDS-2 actuations at 60 and 80 Kg/cm2 pressure of helium was used to validate and upgrade the estimation model. The paper gives the details of the validation details of SDS-2 actuation. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The divertor 'Large Project' was conceived with the aim of demonstrating the feasibility of meeting the lifetime requirements by employing the candidate armor materials of beryllium, tungsten (W) and carbon-fiber-composite (CFC). At the start, there existed only limited experience with constructing water-cooled high heat flux armored components for tokamaks. To this was added the complication posed by the need to use a silver-free joining technique that avoids the transmutation of n-irradiated silver to cadmium. The research project involving the four Home Teams (HTs) has focused on the design, development, manufacture and testing of full-scale Plasma Facing Components (PFCs) suitable for ITER. The task addressed all the issues facing ITER divertor design, such as providing adequate armor erosion lifetime, meeting the required armor-heat sink joint lifetime and heat sink fatigue life, sustaining thermal-hydraulic and electromechanical loads, and seeking to identify ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Metal contaminated crops from contaminated soils are possible hazards for the food chain. The aim of this study was to find practical and cost-effective measures to reduce metal uptake in crops grown on metal contaminated soils near a former metal smelter in Austria. Metal-inefficient cultivars of crop plants commonly grown in the area were investigated in combination with in-situ soil amendments. A laboratory batch experiment using 15 potential amendments was used to select 5 amendments to treat contaminated soil in a pot study using two Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars that differed in their ability to accumulate cadmium. Results from this experiment identified 3 of these amendments for use in a field trial. In the pot experiment a reduction in ammonium nitrate extractable Cd (<41%) and Pb (<49%) compared to the controls was measured, with a concurrent reduction of uptake into barley grain (Cd < 62%, Pb < 68%). In the field extractable fractions ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The University of Virginia's real-time neutron radiography facility was characterized by measurement of the total neutron flux, gold/cadmium ratio, neutron/gamma ratio, and the effective collimar length-to-aperture diameter (L/D) ratio. The real-time neutron imaging system and collimator were further characterized by measuring the modulation transfer function (MTF) of the system. The collimator effectiveness was measured by using the MTF to determine the ''unparallelism'' of the neutron beam. The computer-based image processing system allowed rapid calculation of the MTF and the collimator effectiveness. The results of these measurements, using no collimator and a simple tube collimator, demonstrated the method's ability to determine the effective L/D ratio. The MTF measurement scheme provided a fast, reliable, and reproducible means of monitoring any changes in the real-time system, including both the neutron beam and the electronic components. This paper ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The contamination of environmental materials (soil and dust) by heavy elements is of concern in assessing environmental pollution. Characterization of samples is performed in order to provide information that can be used to assess the potential hazard of the material, to assess remediation strategies, and to determine the source of the heavy element-bearing material. Microbeam analysis using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) or electron microprobe on polished particle mounts allows the size, internal morphology and chemical composition to be determined on a particle-by-particle basis. Computer controlled SEM allows all factors except internal structure to be acquired in an automated fashion. The authors present examples of two studies using microbeam techniques. In the first example, they illustrate how cadmium associated with sphalerite in soils can be quantified at levels down to a few parts per million (ppm) using computer controlled SEM techniques. In the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fungi such as Aspergillus niger and Mucor rouxii are capable of removing heavy metals from aqueous solutions. The role various functional groups play in the cell wall of M. rouxii in metal biosorption of lead, cadmium, nickel and zinc was investigated in this paper. The biomass was chemically treated to modify the functional carboxyl, amino and phosphate groups. These modifications were examined by means of infrared spectroscopy. It was found that an esterification of the carboxyl groups and phosphate and a methylation of the amine groups significantly decreased the biosorption of the heavy metals studied. Thus, the carboxylate, amine and phosphate groups were recognized as important in the biosorption of metal ions by M. rouxii biomass. The role the lipids fraction play was not significant. The study showed that Na, K, Ca and Mg ions were released from the biomass after biosorption of Pb,Cd,Ni and Zn, indicating that ion exchange was a key mechanism in the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Topics related to aerospace power are discussed, taking into account trends and issues of military space power systems technology, space station power system advanced development, the application and use of nuclear power for future spacecraft, the current status of advanced solar array technology development, the application of a parabolic trough concentrator to space station power needs, life test results of the Intelsat-V nickel-cadmium battery, and metal hydride hydrogen storage in nickel hydrogen batteries. Other subjects explored are concerned with alternative fuels, biomass energy, biomedical power, coal gasification, electric power cycles, and electric propulsion. Attention is given to an advanced terrestrial vehicle electric propulsion systems assessment, fuel cells as electric propulsion power plants, a sinewave synthesis for high efficiency dc-ac conversion, steam desulfurization of coal, leadless transfer of energy into the body to power implanted blood ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ten different alloys of zirconium have been tested with regard to the effect of irradiation on their mechanical properties and their sensitivity to environmentally induced failure. Two different environments were used: iodine vapour and liquid cesium with an addition of 2% cadmium. The neutron dose was 10"2"1n/cm"2 (E>1MeV) and the irradiation temperature was about 300 degrees C. All alloy additions increased the irradiation hardening. Especially notable was the large effect of titanium and tin on irradiation hardening. A limited amount of transmission electron microscopy was carried out in order to find an explanation to the effects. The testing in different environments showed that there is no clear correlation between environmental sensitivity and yield stress. For materials of similar yield stress an alloyed material tends to be more sensitive to environmental cracking than a material which only contains oxygen as an impurity. There also seems to be an ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the course of the research project 'Investigations of trace element concentrations in coal seams with different mineral groups', 31 seam coals of the Ruhr Carboniferous were analysed in order to determine the bending of 14 coal-relevant trace elements to the mineral groups and/or minerals of the coals. Products with different ash content were produced by fluctuation of the seam coals in a laboratory cell. The raw coals and fluctuation component products were analyzed chemically and mineralogically in order to get a quantitative raw material characterisation of the sampled material. Particular interest is taken in the chemical and non-ecological composition of the mineral as ash carrier in the coal and the fluctuation component products, as well as in trace element control. (orig./EF).

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All organisms, from bacteria and yeast to humans, respond to physical and chemical stressors by increasing the synthesis of a small group of cellular stress proteins.'' The authors have developed a simple in vitro system for quickly screening environmentally relevant stressors to detect stress-induced proteins that are good candidates for biomarkers. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used to detect stressor-induced, concentration-dependent changes in cellular stress protein levels in two fish cell culture systems, whereas simultaneous in vitro neutral red uptake cytotoxicity assays measured the stressors effect on cellular physiology. There was a direct concentration-dependent relationship between sublethal cytotoxic effects and the increases in stress protein levels. Increases of 50 to 200% were detected in stress proteins from desert topminnow, Poeciliopsis lucida, hepatoma-derived cell cultures exposed to cadmium or copper. Three proteins ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Development of the engineering technology basis of pyrometallurgical reprocessing is a key issue for industrialization. For development of the transport technologies of molten salt and liquid cadmium at around 500 deg. C, a salt transport test rig and a metal transport test rig were installed in Ar glove box. Function of centrifugal pump and 1/2'' declined tubing were confirmed with LiCl- KCl molten salt. The transport behavior of molten salt was found to follow that of water. Function of centrifugal pump, vacuum sucking and 1/2'' declined tubing were confirmed with liquid Cd. With employing the transport technologies, industrialization applicable electro-refiner was newly designed and engineering-scale model was fabricated in Ar glove box. The electro-refiner has semi-continuous liquid Cd cathode instead of conventional one used in small-scale tests. With using actinide-simulating elements, demonstration of industrial-scale throughput will be carried out in this ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The finest particle size fractions ({le} 25 {mu}m) in four fly ash samples from fluidised bed combustion of three biomass based fuels and a municipal solid waste fuel were size separated using a centrifugal SPLITT fractionation cell. The ashes were separated into different size fractions and the cadmium concentration, partition and speciation in each separated fraction were then investigated in relation to their possible leaching. The fractionation was evaluated by environmental scanning electron microscopy, which also provided indications of the associations between Cd and other main elements on the particles through the use of X-ray fluorescence mapping. The total concentration of Cd in each fraction was determined by AAS analysis which showed different dependence on the ash particle size in the case of biomass or waste fuels. In addition, the speciation of Cd in each fraction, investigated by sequential chemical extractions and X-ray powder diffraction analysis, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The biosorption characteristics of Cd(II) ions using the red alga (Ceramium virgatum) were investigated. Experimental parameters affecting the biosorption process such as pH, contact time, biomass dosage and temperature were studied. Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) models were applied to describe the biosorption isotherms. The biosorption capacity of C. virgatum biomass for Cd(II) ions was found to be 39.7 mg/g. From the D-R isotherm model, the mean free energy was calculated as 12.7 kJ/mol, indicating that the biosorption of Cd(II) the metal ions was taken place by chemisorption. The calculated thermodynamic parameters ({delta}G{sup o}, {delta}H{sup o} and {delta}S{sup o}) showed that the biosorption of Cd(II) ions onto C. virgatum was feasible, spontaneous and exothermic at 293-323 K. Evaluation of experimental data in terms of biosorption kinetics showed that the biosorption of Cd(II) C. virgatum followed well pseudo-second-order kinetics.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This research centered on finding and perfecting methods of collection and disposal of refuse in Ibadan North Local Government Areas. The methodology used included questionnaire administration, personal interviews, field reconnaissance, and biochemical tests of water samples, all aimed at providing useful data for the design of effective methods of collecting and disposing refuse. The local government area was divided into three classes based on resident income: a high-income area (Bodija Avenue, etc.), a medium-income area (Sanngo, Oluyole, etc.), and a low-income area (Beere, Adeoyo, etc.). The research outcomes revealed that the waste generation rate for the local government ranged from 0.2 to 0.33 kg/cap/day and waste density ranged from 172.41 to 217.61 kg/m"3. Water analyses showed that the chloride, manganese, lead, and cadmium levels in water from low-income areas were above the WHO standard. The refuse generated in high and medium-income areas was ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper presents fundamental studies on natural biosorption to algae of heavy metals. The investigations were carried out by TU Berlin University in a special research project (Sfb 193, 'Biologische Behandlung industrieller und gewerblicher Abwaesser'). The chlorophyceae C. vulgaris was used as reference alga, and 38 further algae were analzyed with regard to their sorption characteristics for lead, cadmium, nickel and zinc. The most effective algae were the chlorophyceae C. salina, the cyanophyceae S. hofmani and L. taylorii. The biosorption characteristics of C. salina and L. taylorii were investigated in detail. L. taylorii was found to be exploitable successfully in a technical process, so the investigations were extended to include copper. Knowledge about the chemical processes of biosorption is important for any attempt to modify the biosorption characteristics. Experiments on the incorporation of additional functional groups in the cell ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Renewable energy technologies such as photovoltaics, solar thermal power plants, and wind turbines are nonconventional, environmentally attractive sources of energy that can be considered for electric power generation. Many of the areas with abundant renewable energy resources (very sunny or windy areas) are far removed from major load centers. Although electrical power can be transmitted over long distances of many hundreds of miles through high-voltage transmission lines, power transmission systems often operate near their limits with little excess capacity for new generation sources. This study assesses the available capacity of transmission systems in designated abundant renewable energy resource regions and identifies the requirements for high-capacity plant integration in selected cases. In general, about 50 MW of power from renewable sources can be integrated into existing transmission systems to supply local loads without transmission upgrades beyond the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Described herein are the results of the FY1994 research program for structural defects of silicon-based amorphous materials for solar cells. The study on light generation defects of the a-Si:H system and rejuvenation process by annealing establishes the effects of light irradiation time on changed neutral dangling bond density as a result of light irradiation at varying temperature of 77K, room temperature and 393K. The study on annealing to rejuvenate light generation defects of various types of a-Si-H systems establishes the activation energy distribution with respect to annealing to remove light-induced defects, showing that hydrogen affects the distribution of light-induced defects. The study on decaying process of light-induced ESR for undoped and N-doped a-Si:H systems observes the decaying process of light-induced ESR, after light is cut off, extending for a period of several seconds to several hours at 77K for the a-Si-H systems containing N in a range from 0 to 12at%. The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document is an executive summary of the colloquium organized by the French syndicate of renewable energies (SER) which took place at the Maison de l'UNESCO in Paris during the national debate on energies organized by the French government in spring 2003. The colloquium was organized around 6 round tables dealing with: the world perspectives and the environmental context of the contribution of renewable energies to the sustainable development (respect of Kyoto protocol commitments, contribution to the security of energy supplies, lack of large scale program of development of decentralized power generation in developing countries, lack of market tools linked with CO{sub 2} emissions, improvement of competitiveness); development of renewable energies in Europe (promotion and sustain in all European countries, obligation of supply and purchase, pricing regulation, European harmonization of practices); renewable electricity and its place in the new orientation law about ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Among the most promising technological alternatives for the development of photovoltaic modules and cells of a low cost, good energetic conversion and feasibility for mass production, polycrystalline silicon thin film solar cells deposited directly on a transparent substrate are currently being considered the best. We have developed in our laboratory a PECVD reactor capable of producing the deposition of amorphous hydrogenated silicon at rates of above 2 nm/seg, allowing a significant production per line on the plant. Discharge gas is silane, to which diborane or phosphine is added so as to form the cell. Basically, work is done on a structure of cell type TCO/n+/p-/p+/M, which has 2 {mu}m of total thickness. Schott AF-37 glass is used as a substrate, for their ability to withstand temperatures of up to 800 C. The amorphous cell is subsequently annealed at gradual temperatures of 100 C to achieve dehydrogenation up to 650-700 C for 12 h until their complete ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chapter 2 describes the worldwide increase of primary energy consumption, which is expected in coming decades and results in possible solutions of a decentralised energy supply that is mainly based upon renewable energy carriers and the use of cogeneration systems. Chapter 3 shows the characteristics of decentralised system components that have been investigated in the frame of this research work as well as the resulting model library to depict the operational performance of the individual components and their mutual influence. A detailed dynamic simulation of a complete fuel cell system based on a steam reformer including the concept of local and superordinate control circuits is presented in chapter 4. Chapter 5 includes the integrated concepts for the intelligent and adaptable management of complex decentralised energy systems as well as a description of their implementation. Apart from the applied metaheuristic optimization methods the adaptable fuzzy-system, used in this case, is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Power source requirements for the military were presented to provide guidelines for research and development planning. Power sources that contain a high amount of energy and are small, light and durable are a common request from military users. Safety, reliability and low temperature performance are also important factors in the selection of power sources, as are cost and energy efficiency. Issues concerning advanced batteries were reviewed with reference to high energy density cathode materials. Various thermoelectric and renewable energy materials were discussed, with reference to recovery and conversion of waste heat. It was suggested that photovoltaic devices could help revolutionize military logistics by modifying energy re-supply requirements. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) were considered in relation to the high price of the ceramic materials required for operation. It was noted that the development of SOFC anodes capable of generating hydrogen from liquid ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Interest in energy systems based on hydrogen is growing rapidly. Countries including the USA, Japan and Germany have been active in this area for a number of years, but recently a large number of new countries have appeared on the hydrogen scene. These include Australia, Romanla, Greece, China and India. The main reason for this renewed interest is that a future hydrogen society may be one of the solutions to the two major challenges facing the future global economy: climate change and security of energy supply. Both these challenges require the development of new, highly-efficient energy technologies that are either carbon-neutral or emit only small amounts of carbon dioxide. While demand for oil is expected to keep on growing, the supply of oil is forecasted to peak within the next 10-20 years. In a longer time-perspective, there is thus a strong need for new fuels, especially in the transport sector. Several existing and emerging low-carbon energy technologies, including ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Described herein are the results of the FY1994 research program for analysis and evaluation for thin film solar cells. The study on quantitative analysis of hydrogen atoms in a plasma determines quantity of hydrogen atoms in the plasma of monosilane diluted with hydrogen. It is found, contrary to expectation, that quantity of hydrogen atoms in the plasma decreases as it is more diluted with hydrogen. The study on light-induced degradation of the thin chlorine-base amorphous silicon films confirms that the plasma CVD method with 20% of dichlorosilane gas added to monosilane gas produces the thin amorphous silicon film 3 times faster than the conventional method. The thin film has essentially the same defect density as the one prepared by the conventional method, showing good photoelectric characteristics. The thin film of chlorinated amorphous silicon has a 1 digit lower defect density than the conventional one of amorphous silicon, as revealed by the accelerated degradation test with ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper reports that some regions have prepared for these days of disposal shortage with comprehensive waste plans that include a strong WTE presence. Witness Broward County, Florida's program, 12 years in planning by public and private entities, Broward is the second most populated county in the state, with 1.3 million residents and a heavy tourist population, which, together, produce 1.6 million tons of waste annually. The disposal program includes Waste Management, Inc.'s expansion of a 400-acre Central Disposal Sanitary Landfill, the county's new 588-acre landfill, composting, and curbside pickup for recyclables. And, this south Florida plan would not be complete without the two brand new combustion plants. Clean Air and Water Acts notwithstanding, the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation can induce standards stricter than the federal government's due to the sensitive South Florida ecology. Wheelabrator was prepared for all ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The role of macroinvertebrates and diatoms as indicator for metal pollution was investigated by assessing both biota along a metal gradient in the Belgian river the Dommel. Macroinvertebrates and diatoms were sampled in summer and winter and physical-chemical characteristics of the water were measured at four different sample periods and related to sediment characteristics. Although metal concentrations, except cadmium, in the water nowhere exceeded water quality standards, high metal concentrations were measured in the sediment, indicating historical contamination of the Dommel. At the sites that were situated downstream of the pollution source, high levels of conductivity and chloride were measured in the water. Redundancy Analysis (RDA) indicated pH, phosphate and zinc as the significant environmental variables explaining each respectively 7.7%, 11.6% and 22.6% of the macroinvertebrate community composition. Two clusters could be separated, with Gammarus pulex, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A zinc-air battery using zinc regeneration electrolysis with propanol oxidation as a counter electrode reaction is reported in this paper. It possesses functions of both zincate reduction and electrochemical preparation, showing the potential for increasing the electronic energy utilization. Charge/discharge tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs reveal that when a nickel sheet plated with the high-H{sub 2}-overpotential metal, cadmium, was used as the negative substrate electrode, the dendritic formation and hydrogen evolution are suppressed effectively, and granular zinc deposits become larger but relatively dense with the increase of charge time. The performance of batteries is favorable even if the charge time is as long as 5 h at the current density of 20 mA cm{sup -2}. Better discharge performance is achieved using a 'cavity-opening' configuration for the discharge cell rather than a 'gas-introducing' ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A real-time neutron radiography facility was constructed including the capability of neutron tomography. The neutron beam was measured for total neutron flux ((1.0 +/- 0.2) x 10/sup 11/ m/(m/sup 2/-sec)), gold cadmium ratio (52 +/- 3) and effective neutron temperature (83/sup 0/C +/- 8/sup 0/C). The angular divergence or nonparallelism of the neutron beam was measured to be 2.3/sup 0/ +/- 0.1/sup 0/ thereby providing a means of quantifying the collimator effectiveness. The resolution capabilities of both static film and real-time neutron radiographs were quantified using a Fourier transform algorithm to calculate the modulation transfer function of both types of radiographs. The contrast sensitivity of both types of radiographs. The contrast sensitivity of both types of radiographs was measured as 3.1% for film and 4.0% for real-time radiographs. Two tomography algorithms, the simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique (SIRT) and the convolution method, were ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The mechanism of lead transport is presented, and especially the particular similarities or dissimilarities between lead and calcium in this process. The absorption of these metals was determined cockerels, raised on a commercial diet or on a specified diet, using in vivo ligated loop procedure. The dose administered into the loop contained 0.5 #mu#Ci "2"0"3Pb (and/or 0.1 #mu#Ci "4"7Ca), and 0.01 mM lead acetate (and/or mM CaCl_2) in 0.5 ml 0.15 M NaCl,pH 6.5. It was shown that lead is rapidly taken up by the mucosal tissue, and slowly transferred into the body, whereas less calcium is retained by the tissue and the transfer of calcium is many times as effective as that for lead. They appear to respond in a similar manner to a low calcium intake and vitamin D treatment. Increasing luminal stable lead concentration significantly reduced the percentage of radiolead significantly reduced the percentage of radiolead absorbed, but did not affect the absorption of calcium. Also, vitamin D ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Impact of some heavy metals like zinc, lead, copper, chromium and cadmium were studied at four spots on the macro-invertebrate fauna of the Thaddo stream, a tributary of Malir River. This was in correlation with an earlier study on the physico-chemical aspects of water which showed a severe pollution in this stream. Present data for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of macro-invertebrates and the ranges of heavy metals (Zn 0.5-3.5, Pb 0.90-1.42, Cu 0.35-0.93, Cr 0.0-0.08 and Cd 0.003-0.01 ppm) in the water samples also indicate high level of pollution in the stream. Macro-invertebrate fauna comprises only of aquatic insects which include larvae of Chironomus spp., adults of the Notonectus sp., and nymphs of Gomphus sp. (dragon fly) belonging to the order Diptera , Hemiptera and Odonata, respectively. Quantitatively Notonectus sp. predominated and followed by Chironomus larvae. The maximum concentrations of all heavy metals were recorded at spot 3. A general ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

COGNIS TERRAMET{reg_sign} soil leaching and Bescorp soil washing systems have been successfully combined to remediate an ammunition test burn area at the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP), New Brighton, MN. This cleanup is the first in the country to combine these two technologies, and this approach offers a permanent remedial solution. In Fall 1993, 1,600 tons of soil were remediated with an additional 10,000+ tons treated in 1994. The cleaned soil remained on-site, and the heavy metal contaminants were removed, recovered, and recycled. Eight heavy metals were removed from the contaminated soil achieving the very stringent cleanup criteria of <175 ppm for residual lead and achieving background concentrations for seven other heavy metals (antimony, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, nickel, and silver). In addition, both live and spent ordnance had to be removed in the soil treatment plant to meet the cleanup criteria. No hazardous waste requiring ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mo, Ni, Se, Ti, V and Zn in biological fluids, human blood serum and market milk were determined by neutron activation analysis, with enrichment by coprecipitation. The pre-concentration of these trace elements was accomplished by converting the dissolved trace metal ions into their pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (1-pyrrolidinecarbodithioate) chelates, followed by coprecipitation with a metal carrier such as Ni, Pb or Bi. The coprecipitation was carried out prior to irradiation for the short-lived nuclides (V, Ti and Se) and after irradiation for the other elements. The validity of the method was checked using certified biological reference materials; the concentrations of trace elements found by the proposed method agreed well with the published certified data. The limits of detection for Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mo, Ni, Se (obtained through the long-lived isotope "7"5Se) and Zn under the present experimental conditions were found to be 5, 5, 10, 520, 5, 70, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Due to the consumption of chicken and chicken products in Turkey at high ratio, trace metal content of chicken and chicken products from Turkey were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry after microwave digestion. The accuracy of the method was confirmed by analysis of standard reference material (NIST SRM 1577b Bovine liver). Trace element content in various parts of chicken samples and chicken products were to be in the range of 0.10-114 {mu}g/g for copper, 0.25-6.09 {mu}g/kg for cadmium, 0.01-0.40 {mu}g/g for lead, 0.10-0.91 {mu}g/g for selenium, 0.05-3.91 {mu}g/g for manganese, 0.06-0.10 {mu}g/g for arsenic, 0.01-0.72 {mu}g/g for chromium, 0.01-2.08 {mu}g/g for nickel, 0.01-0.02 {mu}g/g for cobalt, 0.10-1.90 {mu}g/g for aluminium, 1.21-24.3 {mu}g/g for zinc, 2.91-155 {mu}g/g for iron. The levels of lead in some analyzed chicken products were higher than the recommended legal limits for human consumption.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Storing electrical energy in batteries is not a viable option for sustaining a country's energy economy. The mass and volume, as well as the costs, of electrochemical components required for this would be beyond all reason. Nevertheless, in certain applications the storage of electrical energy does have significant advantages over other technologies. For example, electrically powered road vehicles emit no exhaust fumes and very little noise at their place of operation. In this way they contribute substantially to air and noise pollution control in urban areas. Photovoltaic applications permit environmentally friendly electricity applications in places remote from the public grid where conventional solutions are prohibitively expensive. More than in the past, battery systems today have to meet a wide range of technical, economic and ecological requirements in order to be marketable. This is why the ''Zoxy'' zinc-air ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: Pigments possessing the ability to confer high solar reflectance have received considerable attention in recent years. The inorganic class of NIR reflective pigments are mainly metal oxides and are primarily employed in two applications: (i) visual camouflage and (ii) reducing heat build up. More than half of the solar radiation consists of near-infrared radiation (52%), the remaining being 43% visible light and 5% ultraviolet radiation. Over heating due to solar radiation negatively affects comfort in the built environment and contributes substantially to electrical consumption for air conditioning and release of green house gases. A pigment which has strong reflections in the NIR region (780-2500 nm) can be referred to as a 'cool' pigment. However, most of the NIR reflective inorganic pigments particularly yellow (eg. cadmium yellow, lead chromate, chrome titanate yellow etc.) contain toxic metals and hence their consumption is being limited. Replacing ...

Science.gov (United States)

Our long-term goal is to enable highly productive plant species to extract, resist, detoxify, and/or sequester toxic heavy metal pollutants as an environmentally friendly alternative to physical remediation methods. We have focused this phytoremediation research on soil and water-borne ionic and methylmercury. Mercury pollution is a serious world-wide problem affecting the health of human and wild-life populations. Methylmercury, produced by native bacteria at mercury-contaminated wetland sites, is a particularly serious problem due to its extreme toxicity and efficient biomagnification in the food chain. We engineered several plant species (e.g., Arabidopsis, tobacco, canola, yellow poplar, rice) to express the bacterial genes, merB and/or merA, under the control of plant regulatory sequences. These transgenic plants acquired remarkable properties for mercury remediation. (1) Transgenic plants expressing merB (organomercury lyase) extract methylmercury from their growth substrate and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The thermochemical calculations performed with a large number of elements to describe the chemical system in a Phebus FP test allow the following conclusions: The metallic absorber materials play a significant role in fission product speciation. At around 1000 C and above, silver iodide is the dominant iodine carrier in a full steam atmosphere in both FPT0 and FPT1. At lower temperatures, cadmium iodide takes over. In a reduced environment, indium iodide becomes important. Caesium iodide does certainly appear; at certain test conditions it becomes the major iodine transporting vehicle. But its role is not greater than that of the other iodides. It has more chances in FPT1 than in FPT0. Chlorine, which was present in FPT0 as a contaminant in relatively large amounts, does not prevent the iodine from forming Csl. Both share the caesium like partners. The evolution of caesium chloride and iodide proceeds in parallel. When CsCl is abundant, Csl is strong, too. Should ...