Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A modified boundary element approach was used to analyze the response of offshore piles subjected to external soil movements. The computer model employed to solve the pile-soil problem was able to model pile head and tip loading, and loading caused by lateral movement of soil. A nonlinear pile-soil interface element with the ability to represent a hardening or softening plastic response prior to reaching an ultimate state was incorporated. With the program, 4 failure modes can be determined: flow of the soil slide past an intact stationary pile; rotation of the pile with the soil at failure along the full pile length; translation of the pile with the sliding soil, resulting in failure of the supporting soil; and the long-pile mode, in which the maximum bending moment in the pile reaches the yield moment of the pile before complete development of the other 3 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Probabilistic assessment methods can be used to identify specific plant vulnerabilities. Application of such methods can also facilitate selection among system design alternatives available for safety enhancements. The quality of assessment results is however strongly dependent on realistic and accurate input data for modelling of system component behaviour and failure modes during conditions to be assessed. Use of conservative input data may not lead to results providing guidance on safety upgrades. Adequate input data for probabilistic assessments seems to be lacking for at least failure modes of some electrical components when exposed to a fire. This report presents an attempt to improve the situation with respect to such input data. In order to take advantage of information in existing documentation of fire incident occurrences some of the lessons learned from the fire at Browns Ferry Nuclear Power ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study presented in this thesis is a contribution about the analysis of failures modes of electrolytic capacitors and thyristors. The studied components are main elements of the protection system of the superconductive magnets of the LHC. The study of the ageing of the electrolytic capacitors has shown that their reliability is strongly related to their technological characteristic. Evolution of their principal indicator of ageing (ESR) can be modeled according to different laws chosen according to their running mode. It appears that the prediction of failure of these components other than that due to wear can be only statistical taking into account the many causes of failure involving various modes of failure. In order to be able to evaluate influence of the ageing of the electrolytic capacitors on a system, simple models taking into ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

As part of the Nondestructive Evaluation Reliability Program sponsored by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Pacific Northwest Laboratory is developing a method that uses risk-based approaches to establish in-service inspection plans for nuclear power plant components. This method uses probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) results and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FEMA) techniques to identify and prioritize the most risk-important systems and components for inspection. The Surry Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 was selected for pilot applications of this method. The specific systems addressed in this report are the reactor pressure vessel, the reactor coolant, the low-pressure injection, and the auxiliary feedwater. The results provide a risk-based ranking of components within these systems and relate the target risk to target failure probability values for individual components. These results ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A mechanistic understanding of fracture in human bone is critical to predicting fracture risk associated with age and disease. Despite extensive work, a mechanistic framework for describing how the underlying microstructure affects the failure mode in bone is lacking.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A fuel plate examination was conducted in the hot cell and canal to determine the possible failure modes for three plates leaking fission products. The plates were irradiated in the Extended Life Aluminide Fuel (ELAF) program in support of university research reactor goals to increase the limits presently allowed. The examination indicated pitting corrosion to be the failure mode. Other failure modes such as: (a) nonbonded swelling, (b) excessive fuel swelling, and (c) overheating of the plates were not observed.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Biomass tensile and shear ultimate failure stresses were measured with the aim of identifying biomass 'weakest mode of failure' or 'natural fracture point' as a basis for future grinder designs. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) ultimate stresses were determined for Alamo and Kanlow varieties over ranges in maturity and moisture content. Alamo had greater ultimate tensile stress than Kanlow (P=0.0091), with mean values of 97.8 and 89.7MPa, respectively. Alamo had greater ultimate shear stress than Kanlow (P=0.0091), with mean values of 20.5 and 17.9MPa, respectively. Shear was the 'weakest mode of failure'. Grinders that use knives, shear bars, and mechanical pinch points that apply opposed-sliding actions are expected to be more energy efficient. Mean ultimate tensile stress and shear stress were significantly different between ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report reviews system safety analysis methods and examines their application to nuclear waste management systems. The safety analysis methods examined include expert opinion, maximum credible accident approach, design basis accidents approach, hazard indices, preliminary hazards analysis, failure modes and effects analysis, fault trees, event trees, cause-consequence diagrams, G0 methodology, Markov modeling, and a general category of consequence analysis models. Previous and ongoing studies on the safety of waste management systems are discussed along with their limitations and potential improvements. The major safety methods and waste management safety related studies are surveyed. This survey provides information on what safety methods are available, what waste management safety areas have been analyzed, and what are potential areas for future study.

Science.gov (United States)

The goal of this study was to evaluate topics used to troubleshoot circuit boards with known or suspected thermally intermittent components. Failure modes for thermally intermittent components are typically mechanical defects, such as cracks in solder paths or joints, or broken b...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The 1977 version of the Simpson-Puls-Dutton model appears to be the most amenable with respect to utilizing known or readily estimated quantities. The Pardee-Paton model requires extensive calculations involving estimated quantities. Recent observations by Koike and Suzuki on vanadium support the general assumption that crack growth in hydride forming metals is determined by the rate of hydride formation, and their hydrogen atmosphere-displacive transformation model is of potential interest in explaining hydrogen embrittlement in ferrous alloys as well as hydride formers. The discontinuous nature of cracking due to hydrogen embrittlement appears to depend very strongly on localized stress intensities, thereby pointing to the role of microstructure in influencing crack initiation, fracture mode and crack path. The initiation of hydrogen induced failures over relatively short periods of time can be characterized with fair reliability using ...

Wastenet

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe rhizomes of Cynodon dactylon are used for the treatment of heart failure in folk medicine. In the present study, we investigated the effects of hydroalcoholic...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

By means of a global mode analysis of ideal MHD modes for Mercier-unstable equilibria in a planar axis L=2/M=10 heliotron/torsatron system with an inherently large Shafranov shift, the conjecture from local mode analysis for Mercier-unstable equilibria given in [N. Nakajima, Phys. Plasmas 3, 4556 (1996)] has been confirmed and the properties of pressure-driven modes, namely, ballooning modes and interchange modes, inherent to such three-dimensional systems have been clarified. The change of the local magnetic shear due to the Shafranov shift, which is related to toroidicity, reduces the field line bending stabilizing effects on ballooning modes. According to the degree of the reduction of the local magnetic shear by the Shafranov shift, the Mercier-unstable equilibria are categorized into toroidicity-dominant (strong ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A large amount of radioactive waste has been stored safely at the Savannah River and Hanford sites over the past 46 years. The aim of this report is to review the experimental corrosion studies at Savannah River and Hanford with the intention of identifying the types and rates of corrosion encountered and indicate how these data contribute to tank failure predictions. The compositions of the High-Level Wastes, mild steels used in the construction of the waste tanks and degradation-modes particularly stress corrosion cracking and pitting are discussed. Current concerns at the Hanford Site are highlighted.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Stress corrosion cracking tests in constant extension rate tensile (CERT) and constant load tensile (CLT) tests were conducted on Ni-xCr- 9Fe-yC in Ar, water, and a LiOH-boric acid solution. Cr and C improve the resistance of Ni-base alloys to IG cracking in both Ar and water at 360C. Since creep plays a role in IG cracking, one possible explanation for the role of the environment involves its effect on the creep. Experiments were conducted on the role of C in the deformation behavior and failure mode of Ni-16Cr-9Fe. Constant load experiments were conducted on Ni-16Cr-9Fe to determine if the CLT test is more aggressive than CERT. The electron backscattering technique in a SEM is being developed in order to extend the IG cracking studies to grain sizes typical of commercial alloys, 20-30 microns.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This project is to provide the regulatory direction of containment bypass during multiple steam generator tube failure issue for the Korean Next Generation Reactors, which is a part of major technical issues resulted from the safety regulation R and D on the KNGR. The outstanding results are as follows : the Multiple Steam Generator Tube Repture(MSGTR) event has never been occurred in the history of commercial nuclear reactor operation but single Steam Generator Tube Rupture(SGTR) event is reported to occur every two years. A probabilistic safety analysis study on MSGTR event, however, show its probability of occurrence is to be the same order as the design basis accidents such as LACA. In this regard, the ability of NPPs to cope with MSGTR event is required. Some requirements on initial and boundary conditions are suggested to be used in the analyses of NPPs during MSGTR events. The items that should be considered in establishing regulatory requirements are ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Presented are the results of the investigation of the kinetics and micromechanism of the failure in impact bending of oriented-crystallized specimens having the eutectic composition Ni_3Al-Ni_3Nb and of the bimetal composed of 45 steel + M3 copper. The failure kinetics was studied by high-speed filming, whereas the fractures were studied by electron fractography. The particularities of the failure of the laminar-type composite materials were found. Analyzed was the effect of the kinetic factors and the mechanism of failure upon its energy consumption.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carbon steel is frequently used to construct concentrated sulphuric acid storage tanks. This paper discussed the corrosion performance of carbon steel tanks and outlined the underlying mechanisms responsible for major corrosion modes. Analyses of hydrogen grooving and dilute acid corrosion failure mechanisms were presented. Recent corrosion-induced leak failures were also discussed. The use of anodic protection and organic coatings as a corrosion control measure was also evaluated. The results of laboratory studies that were conducted to understand corrosion-induced failures showed that carbon steel electrodes exhibited transpassive corrosion at relatively high anodic potentials, while stainless steel electrodes exhibited transpassive corrosion at anodic potentials less than 1 V. It was concluded that corrosion-induced leaks can be prevented by using anodic protection and baked phenolic coating ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We continue the study of the hole coupling resonator for free electron laser (FEL) application. The previous resonator code is further developed to include the effects of the azimutally asymmetric modes and the FEL gain. The implication of the additional higher order modes is that there are more degeneracies to be avoided in tuning the FEL wavelengths. The FEL interaction is modeled by constructing a transfer map in the small signal regime and incorporating it into the resonator code. The FEL gain is found to be very effective in selecting a dominant mode from the azimuthally symmetric class of modes. Schemes for broad wavelength tuning based on passive mode control via adjustable apertures are discussed. 12 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Study was made on the city bus driven by the series hybrid system composed of a small ceramic gas turbine (100kW), generator and lead storage battery. Two driving modes were adopted, 10-driving mode and real driving mode assuming a certain bus route in Tokyo. The motor is driven mainly by generated power and additionally by battery power, however, the engine/generator system is controlled at an optimum operation point (driving mode and regenerating mode) with a maximum thermal efficiency considering depth of discharge. Design voltage of the battery had nearly no effect on fuel consumption, while its capacity as large as possible was desirable unless its weight has an adverse effect on the system. The real driving mode was lower in fuel consumption by 39% than the 10-driving mode. Since real fuel ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This book contains over 20 selections. Some of the titles are: Continuum damage mechanics studies on the dynamic fracture of concrete; Dynamic compressive strength of cementitious materials; Rate-sensitivity of mode I and mode II fracture concrete; and An impact damage model of concrete.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper presents results of studies on the effect of heat treatment on strength and pattern of 40Kh steel impact failure. Loading levels corresponding to macroscopic spalling microdamage initiation in the material are determined for three initial states. Metallographic study on the spalling failure pattern for 40Kh steel in different initial states and data on microhardness measurement are presented.

Science.gov (United States)

... The subjects in this field experiment were volunteer infantrymen from the 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The TS-1 and TS-2 TREAT transient experiments subjected a low burnup (2 MWd/kg) and a medium burnup (58 MWd/kg), respectively, FFTF irradiated fuel pin to unprotected 5 cents/s overpower transient conditions. The fuel pin failure response was similar in the two tests, which demonstrated a large margin to failure (P/P_0 > 3) and a favorable upper level failure location. Thus, for these transient conditions, burnup effects on transient performance appeared to be minimal in the range tested. Pin disruption in the medium burnup TS-2 test was more severe due to the higher fission gas pressurization, but failure occurred at only a 5% lower power level than for the low burnup TS-1 fuel pin. Both tests exhibited axial extrusion of molten fuel to the region above the fuel column several seconds before pin failure, demonstrating a potentially beneficial inherent safety ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The potential of ultrasonic guided modes for use in global structural health monitoring of aging metallic aircraft can only be realized if the modes selected are able to propagate over a reasonable distance. This work studies the propagation of different modes through fuselage structure by means of mode analysis, finite element modeling and experimental measurement. Beginning with the case of a simple skin panel, the paper examines propagation across a set of structural features representing a typical monocoque fuselage and considers the effect of overlying sealant layers, bonded and sealed joints, paint layers and tapering skin. With the exception of the fundamental symmetric mode at very low frequency, no mode was found that could propagate across all features with an effective attenuation of less than 40 dB/m. This ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Power devices such as MOSFETSs and IGBTs, include parasitic structures that can give rise to destructive failures such as breakdown and latch-up. To determine a suitable strategy for device radiation hardening, simulation software like MEDICI-2D can be used to model the effects of technological modifications and device parameters that are difficult to measure experimentally. (authors).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The objective of this study is to comprehend the basic structural characteristics of box shaped mixed structures proposed for a future nuclear reactor building structure. Specimens of reinforced concrete precast panel walls of the mixed structures were prepared using ultrahigh strength materials. Two bending shear tests were conducted with a parameter of the quantity of reinforcement bars. The results include: (1) Relationship of shear stress and the angle of the structure, and (2) Failure mode. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The leakage behavior of containments beyond design conditions and knowledge of failure modes is required for evaluation of mitigation strategies for severe accidents, risk studies, emergency preparedness planning, and siting. These studies are directed towards assessing the risk and consequences of severe accidents. An accident sequence analysis conducted on a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR), Mark I (MK I), indicated very high temperatures in the dry-well region, which is the location of the majority of electrical penetration assemblies. Because of the high temperatures, it was postulated in the ORNL study that the sealants would fail and all the electrical penetration assemblies would leak before structural failure would occur. Since other containments had similar electrical penetration assemblies, it was concluded that all containments would experience the same type of failure. The results of this study, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mechanical testing of controlled-purity Ni-xCr-9Fe-yC alloys at 360 C revealed an environmental enhancement in IG cracking and time-dependent deformation in high purity and primary water over that exhibited in argon. Dimples on the IG facets indicate a creep void nucleation and growth failure mode. IG cracking was primarily located at the interior of the specimen and not necessarily linked to direct contact with the environment. Controlled potential CERT experiments showed increases in IG cracking as the applied potential decreased, suggesting that hydrogen is detrimental to the mechanical properties. It is proposed that the environment, through the presence of hydrogen, enhances IG cracking by enhancing the matrix dislocation mobility. This is based on observations that dislocation-controlled creep controls the IG cracking of controlled-purity Ni-xCr-9Fe-yC in argon at 360 C and grain boundary cavitation and sliding results that show the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An experimental study was performed to provide the combustion and emission characteristics resulting from fuel-reactivity controlled compression ignition (RCCI) combustion mode utilizing dual-fuel approach in a light-duty, multi-cylinder diesel engine. In-cylinder fuel blending using port fuel injection of gasoline before intake valve opening (IVO) and early-cycle, direct injection of diesel fuel was used as the charge preparation and fuel blending strategy. In order to achieve the desired auto-ignition quality through the stratification of the fuel-air equivalence ratio ( ), blends of commercially available gasoline and diesel fuel were used. Engine experiments were performed at an engine speed of 2300rpm and an engine load of 4.3bar brake mean effective pressure (BMEP). It was found that significant reduction in both nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) was realized successfully through the RCCI combustion ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Serial studies of iron transport in patients on maintenance dialysis showed normal or raised values in almost all subjects and a transient increase soon after the start of dialysis in three. These...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe elevated serum and peritoneal cytokine concentrations responsible for the systemic response syndrome (SIRS) and multiorgan failure in patients with severe acute pancreatitis...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Alternatives for developing chronic exposure limits for noncancer effects of trichloroethylene (TCE) were evaluated. These alternatives were organized within a framework for dose-response assessment--exposure:dosimetry...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Failure of multiple components due to a common cause represents one of the most important issues in evaluation of system reliability or unavailability. The frequency of such events has relatively low expectancy, when compared to random failures, which affect individual components. However, in many cases the consequence is a direct loss of safety system or mitigative safety function. For this reason, the modeling of a common cause failure (CCF) and its presentation in fault tree structure is of the uttermost importance in probabilistic safety analyses (PSA). Amongst the different techniques available to reduce the impact of common cause failures, the most important operations related technique, is that of staggered testing. In the TAPP 3,4 Level-1 PSA it was found that the contribution of Common Cause Failures to the Core Damage Frequency (CDF) was significant. The Common Cause ...

Science.gov (United States)

... failure at Goodwood and General Montgomery's continued failure to aggressively pursue the ground campaign. Air Chief ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) can overcome the mode mixing problem of the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and therefore provide more precise decomposition results. Wavelet neural network (WNN) possesses the advantages of both wavelet transform and artificial neural networks. This paper combines the merits of EEMD and WNN to propose an automated and effective fault diagnosis method of locomotive roller bearings. First, the vibration signals captured from the locomotive roller bearings are preprocessed by EEMD method and intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) are produced. Second, a kurtosis based method is presented and used to select the sensitive IMF. Third, time- and frequency-domain features are extracted from the sensitive IMF, its frequency spectrum and its envelope spe...

Science.gov (United States)

Acute Heart Failure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Twenty-two out of 31 patients with chronic renal failure and secondary hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy before operation underwent non-invasive image diagnosis of parathyroid glands by computed tomography (CT), scintigraphy with /sup 201/TlCl and /sup 99m/TcO/sup 4 +/, and/or ultrasonography. CT visualized 39 of 45 parathyroid glands (86.7%), weighing more than 500 mg. Scintigraphy with a subtraction method using a computer performed the diagnosis in 19 of 27 glands (70.4%). Ultrasonography detected 21 of 27 glands (77.8%). Image diagnosis was also useful in the postoperative follow-up study. The non-invasive image diagnosis of parathyroid glands in patients with chronic renal failure is thus valuable for 1) definite diagnosis of secondary hyperparathyroidism, 2) localization, and 3) diagnosis for effectiveness of conservative treatment.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

An aerodynamic pendulum placed in a steady horizontal air flow is studied in connection with modeling a wind-receiving element of a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT). When modeling the medium effects on the pendulum, the following two approaches are combined: the quasi-static one based on stationary wind tunnel experiments and the unsteady one based on the added mass effects. The existence of stable and unstable rotational modes is analyzed analytically (via the Poincar?-Pontryagin method) and numerically. The dependence on the parameters responsible for the viscous friction at the rotation axis and for the added mass effects is taken into account.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The TS-1 and TS-2 Transient Reactor Test Facility (TREAT) experiments were conducted on irradiated Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) fuel pins to characterize their failure behavior when subjected to hypothetical 5%/s transient overpower conditions. The TS-1 test employed a near-fresh (2 MWd/kg) fuel pin, while the TS-2 test used a medium-burnup (58 MWd/kg) fuel pin. Transient conditions were closely matched between the two experiments to provide a direct comparison of burnup effects on the failure response.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Natural cooling conditions of the nuclear fuel in the channel type reactor after its shut down are commonly determined with relatively high uncertainty. This is not only to he lack of adequate measurements of thermal parameters i.e. the residual power generation, the coolant flow and temperatures, but also due to indeterminate model of convection mechanism. The numerical simulation of natural convection in multitube fuel assembly in the fuel channel leads to various convection modes including evidently chaotic behaviour. To determine the real cooling conditions in the MARIA research reactor a series of experiments has been performed with fuel assembly equipped with a set of thermocouples. After some forced cooling period (the shortest was half an hour after the reactor shut down) the reactor was left with the only natural convection. Two completely different cooling modes have been observed. The MARIA core consists of series of individual fuel ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A micro-mechanistic understanding of bone fracture that encompasses how cracks interact with the underlying microstructure and defines their local failure mode is lacking, despite extensive research on the response of bone to a variety of factors like aging, loading, and/or disease. Micro-mechanical models for fracture incorporating such local failure criteria have been widely developed for metallic and ceramic materials systems; however, few such deliberations have been undertaken for the fracture of bone. In fact, although the fracture event in mineralized tissues such as bone is commonly believed to be locally strain controlled, until recently there has been little experimental evidence to support this widely held belief. In the present study, a series of in vitro experiments involving a double-notch bend test geometry are performed in order to shed further light on the nature of the local cracking events that precede ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of maternal obesity on mode of delivery following induction of labour (IOL) for prolonged pregnancy and subsequent intrapartum and neonatal complications.DesignRetrospective...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundGlucosinolate breakdown products are volatile, therefore good candidates for insect fumigants. However, although they are insecticidal, the mode of action of such natural...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We have discovered a previously unidentified thermal explosion mode using the Los Alamos deflagration cylinder test (DFCT). The DFCT is a "pipe bomb"-style test similar to the detonation cylinder test (DTCT), which has been used for many years to calibrate detonation product equations of state. The shot is heated in an oven to a uniform test temperature. The pre-heated high explosive (HE) is triggered by a hot wire initiator on one end. The tube is back-illuminated by a bright light source, and its combustion-driven deformation and subsequent break-up are observed by a high-speed framing camera. Like the DTCT, the DFCT tube wall motion provides the primary diagnostic. A variety of reactive responses are possible, including quasi-steady deflagration and deflagration-to-detonation transition...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For years rock bit performance has been progressively improved by many innovative changes to the design of both the bit cutting structure and the bearing. The changes have offered increased footage per bit and reduced cost per foot of hole through longer bit life and/or faster penetration rate. Efforts to assist the industry in drilling deeper thru hard abrasive rocks such as cherts of West Texas, conglomerated of the Rockies and bromides of Oklahoma led to a major breakthrough in rock bit design - the development of the tungsten carbide cutting structure. When properly applied the bit far exceeded that of the non-sealed ball and roller bearing being used at the time. The bearing failure mode was one of severe race spalling and abrasive wear influenced by the drilling fluid entering the bearing.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Research is in progress to obtain a satisfactory creep ductility for alloy 800 when used as heat exchanger material in sodium-cooled fast reactors (LMFBR). The creep test characteristics at present available show that a pronounced tendency to reduced elongation by creep failure may arise after prolonged testing in the 500-700 deg C temperature range. This phenomenon is now agreed to be primarily inherent to the conditions for Ni_3(Ti,Al) precipitation in the material and hence to the Ti and Al concentrations. By structural studies and hardness measurements on material subjected to creep tests and taken from a large number of castings, the relationship was established between the (Ti+Al) content and the structural hardness effect of Ni_3(Ti,Al) at 600 deg C. Below a certain Ti+Al concentration, no precipitation occurs and hence the creep ductility to failure can be improved considerably by limiting the allowed Ti+Al content ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Diurnal and seasonal thermal constancy, a greatly delayed seasonal temperature maximum, and summer cool and winter warm conditions characterize the stream environment below a deep-release dam in Colorado. Low diversity index and equitability values and changes in macroinvertebrate species composition may result from failure of the temperature regime to provide the thermal stimuli essential for various life-cycle phenomena. It is hypothesized that the following sublethal effects, directly or indirectly resulting from the modified temperature regime, may further alter macroinvertebrate community structure: reduction of niche overlap and a shift toward an equilibrium community as a consequence of reduced environmental fluctuation; more intense competition associated with greater productivity; elimination of major invertebrate predators; and failure of the limited temperature range to provide optimal temperatures for various ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel for internal combustion engines. It can reduce carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC) and particulate matter (PM) emissions, compared with diesel fuel, but there is also an increase in nitrogen oxides (NOx) emission. This study is aimed to compare the effect of applying a biodiesel with either 10% blended methanol or 10% fumigation methanol. The biodiesel used in this study was converted from waste cooking oil. Experiments were performed on a 4-cylinder naturally aspirated direct injection diesel engine operating at a constant speed of 1800 rev/min with five different engine loads. The results indicate a reduction of CO{sub 2}, NOx, and particulate mass emissions and a reduction in mean particle diameter, in both cases, compared with diesel fuel. It is of interest to compare the two modes of fueling with methanol in combination with biodiesel. For the blended mode, there is a slightly higher ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silica microspheres were deposited into two-dimensional periodic arrays and coated with a thin layer of silicon nanocrystals. The luminescence from the silicon nanocrystals coupled into the whispering gallery modes of the spheres, with Q factors that depended on a range of parameters including sphere size, position on the sphere, viewing direction, and thickness of the nanocrystal coating. Scattering from the film-sphere and/or the sphere-substrate contacts resulted in a lower Q for modes that intersect these regions. The highest Q factors obtained in this work were {approx}1500. The results suggest that silica microspheres may be promising candidates for high-Q cavities that incorporate silicon nanocrystals for cavity QED or nonlinear optical effects.

CERN Document Server

Effect of a planar texture quality and its thickness on lasing spectrums and thresholds in dye-doped cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) of steroid type is explored. Transition from the qualitative planar texture to the poor texture quality is accompanied by change of characteristic mode structures and by shift of barycentre in the long-wave side and the considerable growth of the lasing threshold. It is found that in the CLC texture created by substrates with perpendicular directions of orientation the stable single-mode lasing takes place. The nature of oscillated modes in such texture is caused by phase jump. The gained results show that in steroid CLC, unlike induced one, lasing spectrums is possible to feature with the coupled wave model. Key words: steroidal cholesteric liquid crystal, distributed feedback lasing, oscillation thresholds, phase defect of periodical structure, transmission and lasing ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Introduction. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective procedure for the treatment of neuropathic extremity pain, with success rates approaching 70%. However, mechanical failures, including breakage and migration, can significantly limit the long-term effectiveness of SCS. A systematic analysis of surgical techniques was undertaken by a consensus group, coupled with extensive in vivo and in vitro biomechanical testing of system components. Methods. A computer model based on morphometric data was used to predict movement in a standard SCS system between an anchored lead and pulse generator placed in various locations. These displacements were then used to determine a realistic range of forces exerted on components of the SCS system. Laboratory fixtures were constructed to subj...

Science.gov (United States)

A finite three-dimensional layer-by-layer photonic crystal with planar defects in a layer is shown to drastically modify the spontaneous emission rate of an embedded dipole. Finite-difference time-domain calculations with one quarter symmetric boundary condition and perfectly matched layer demonstrate the strong enhancement effects induced by the cavity resonance of defect modes and band-edge resonant modes. Simulation shows that the emission spectra are quite different when the position or polarization of the dipole is changed. Moreover, the extraction efficiency is calculated to observe the percentage of light leakage through a substrate.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper describes an analytical study of two parallel-flowing boundary layers of free and forced convection modes on the facing sides of a vertical thin wall. The two layers are analyzed separately within the framework of boundary layer theory, and coupled by the matching conditions at wall. Numerical data are obtained for a wide range of a dimensionless conjugation parameter {zeta} relating the heat transfer effectiveness of two convection modes. Based on these data, an expression for calculating the conjugate mean Nusselt number as a function of {zeta}-parameter is found by means of a curve-fitting method. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

One of the main applications of PSA studies is related to identification of the major key issues related to plant safety. In standard PSA one assumes a constant value for component failure rates by considering that the component doesn't experience any degradation that could affect its performance. Used in this manner, standard PSA tools do not adequately address important ageing issues, and this fact could have a significant impact on the conclusions drawn from PSA studies and applications, in conditions of operation of ageing plants. To obtain realistic results, it is necessary to consider in the PSA model the ageing effects, and to do that it is necessary to take into consideration the change in component failure rate as a function of component age. In case of ageing phenomena, this dependence causes the failure rate of a component (or a set of components) to increase in time as the component age ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A general theoretical approach for the study of the two-dimensional structure of high-n Toroidal Alfven Eigenmodes (TAE) in finite-#beta#, large aspect ratio (R_o/a much-gt 1) tokamak equilibria is presented. Here, n is the toroidal mode number, #beta# = plasma/magnetic pressure, and a(R_o) is the minor (major) radius of the torus. It is shown how the general pseudo-differential boundary value problem for the radial eigenmode structure can be systematically constructed from the local dispersion relation; which is obtained using the ballooning formalism. The TAE modes are characterized by a broad radial envelope, the width of which is independent on the mode number in the general case of monotonic equilibrium profiles. The results on the two-dimensional eigenmode structure are expected to be applicable to drift-type waves. The ballooning transform is generalized here to handle singular eigenfunctions typical of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NO{sub x} compounds, specifically NO and NO{sub 2}, are pollutants and potent greenhouse gases. Compact and inexpensive NO{sub x} sensors are necessary in the next generation of diesel (CIDI) automobiles to meet government emission requirements and enable the more rapid introduction of more efficient, higher fuel economy CIDI vehicles. Because the need for a NO{sub x} sensor is recent and the performance requirements are extremely challenging, most are still in the development phase. Currently, there is only one type of NO{sub x} sensor that is sold commercially, and it seems unlikely to meet more stringent future emission requirements. Automotive exhaust sensor development has focused on solid-state electrochemical technology, which has proven to be robust for in-situ operation in harsh, high-temperature environments (e.g., the oxygen stoichiometric sensor). Solid-state sensors typically rely on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) as the oxygen-ion conducting electrolyte and then target ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The predicted results of INDAC code were compared with measured "3H concentrations in air and pine-needle around the Wolsung site. The optimal sets of input data to INDAC were in addition selected by comparing the measured values with the predicted values of INDAC based on various conditions such as the release modes of effluents into the environment, the classification of wind classes, and the consideration of terrain. The predicted "3H concentrations in air and pine-needle were shown to have good agreement with measured values, although there are some limitations such as uncertainties in measured values, complex topology around the site, and the land-sea breeze effects. The assumption on the "3H behavior in vegetables or plants that the ratio of "3H concentration in plant water to "3H concentration in atmospheric water is 1/2 was shown to be conservative in terms of the audit calculation performed by the regulator. It was also found that data ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Statistical data on individual types of foreign NPPs including reliability and safety indices are given. It is noted that capacity factors (CF) in 1985 were higher for PWRs. Japan has the highest CF-98.5% in the world. One of main causes of NPP shutdown remains the primary circuit equipment failure in connection with different corrosion types (intercrystalline, pitting, denting-corrosion etc.). Effect of all volatile treatment on enhancement of NPP reliabiity is shown. Technical BWR characteristics are presented.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mutation breeding in one of the cultigens TMV-5 in Sesamum is undertaken with 5 kr, 10 kr, 15 kr, 20 kr, 60 kr and 80 kr, dosages of gamma-rays. 60 kr and 80 kr dosages were found to be lethal from the complete failure of seed germination. The mutagen had a heterotic effect on the different characters and the promising variants obtained in this programme are proposed to be maintained by pureline breeding for their possible release as new varieties. (author).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Proper use of quality assurance will provide the basis for an effective management control system for nuclear waste management programs. Control is essential for achieving successful programs free from costly losses and failures and for assuring the public and regulators that the environment and health and safety are being protected. The essence of quality assurance is the conscientious use of planned and systematic actions, based on selecting and applying appropriate requirements from an established quality assurance standard. Developing a quality assurance program consists of using knowledge of the technical and managerial aspects of a project to identify and evaluate risks of loss and failure and then to select appropriate quality assurance requirements that will minimize the risks. Those requirements are integrated into the project planning documents and are carried out as specific actions during the life of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A test program was conducted under contract to Sandia National Laboratories to investigate water/steam effects on elevated temperature low cycle fatigue and creep-fatigue of Alloy 800. This report presents interpretation and analysis of the test results. Tubular specimens with water sealed inside were cycled to failure under strain control. Tests were conducted to 616K (650/sup 0/F) and 922K (1200/sup 0/F); some at 922K included tensile or compressive hold periods to simulate creep-fatigue conditions. The tubular specimens showed significantly lower lives than solid bar specimens cycled at equivalent strain ranges. Rough internal surfaces contributed to early crack initiation with these specimens. Inclusion of hold periods caused further large reductions in cycles to failure.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This report is the user's manual of seismic system reliability analysis code SECOM2 (Seismic Core Melt Frequency Evaluation Code Ver.2) developed at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute for systems reliability analysis, which is one of the tasks of seismic probabilistic safety assessment (PSA) of nuclear power plants (NPPs). The SECOM2 code has many functions such as: Calculation of component failure probabilities based on the response factor method, Extraction of minimal cut sets (MCSs), Calculation of conditional system failure probabilities for given seismic motion levels at the site of an NPP, Calculation of accident sequence frequencies and the core damage frequency (CDF) with use of the seismic hazard curve, Importance analysis using various indicators, Uncertainty analysis, Calculation of the CDF taking into account the effect of the correlations of responses and capacities of components, and Efficient ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For a reliable design against fatigue failure of high-temperature components of different types of the heat resistant material Alloy 800, verified parameters of the low-cycle fatigue (LCF) behaviour are required. These parameters were obtained by a scatterband evaluation of the results of low-cycle fatigue tests, using a computerized data bank which includes all available actual data sets. The results of the evaluation are presented as mean fatigue curves with the upper and lower boundary limits of the scatterbands. For the type Alloy 800 in the recrystallization annealed condition, the results cover a temperature range from 20 to 750deg C; for the solution annealed types they cover a temperature range from 20 to 950deg C. Specimens tested in HTR helium at high temperatures had longer lives than specimens tested in air. This effect was represented quantitatively by the ratio of the total strain ranges from tests in HTR helium and air as a ...

Science.gov (United States)

The paper gives results of experiments in a 0.1 MW pilot plant to determine the effects of high concentrations of chloride ions and dissolved salts on flue gas desulfurization (FGD) scrubbing chemistry, both in the natural and forced oxidation modes of operation. (Note: The tight...

CERN Document Server

Acoustic waves propagation of in composite of water with embedded double-layered silicone resin/silver rods is considered. Approximate values of effective dynamical constitutive parameters are obtained. Frequency ranges of simultaneous negative constitutive parameters are found. Localized surface states on the interface between metamaterial and ``normal'' material are found. Doppler effect in metamaterial is considered. Presence of anomalous modes is shown.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mass distributions of fragments in the low-energy fission of nuclei from {sup 187}Ir to {sup 213}At have been analysed. This analysis has shown that shell effects in symmetric-mode fragment mass yields from the fission of pre-actinide nuclei could be described if one assumes the existence of two strongly deformed neutron shells in the arising fragments with neutron numbers N{sub 1}{approx}52 and N{sub 2}{approx}68. A new method has been proposed for quantitatively describing the mass distributions of the symmetric fission mode for pre-actinides with A{approx}180-220. (orig.) 28 refs.

CERN Document Server

We present first worldline numerical results for the nontrivial interplay between geometry and temperature dependencies of the Casimir effect. We show that the temperature dependence of the Casimir force can be significantly larger for open geometries (e.g., perpendicular plates) than for closed geometries (e.g., parallel plates). For surface separations in the experimentally relevant range, the thermal correction for the perpendicular-plates configuration exhibits a stronger parameter dependence and exceeds that for parallel plates by more than an order of magnitude at room temperature. This effect can be attributed to the fact that the fluctuation spectrum for closed geometries is gapped, inhibiting the thermal excitation of modes at low temperatures. By contrast, open geometries support a thermal excitation of the low-lying modes in the gapless spectrum already at low temperatures.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The simultaneous hydrogen and silicon atom densities in amorphous silicon, a-Si, films prepared by the glow discharge technique have been measured by 25 MeV #alpha#-particle elastic scattering. Integrated band intensities for the silicon-hydrogen stretching modes, #omega#_1sup(s) and #omega#_2sup(s) in the region 1800 to 2200 cm"-"1 were determined for the same freely supported films. A similar analysis has been carried out for the bands observed at 890, 840 and 640 cm"-_1. Effective oscillator strengths for the #omega#_1sup(s) and #omega#_2sup(s) modes in a-Si films have been estimated and compared with the current theories on the effect of the silicon matrix on the infrared absorption characteristics. (author).

Science.gov (United States)

The fault signature can be revealed by vibration analysis in machine fault detection and diagnosis. Empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is a self-adaptive method that can decompose a vibration signal into informative intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). This paper addresses the improvement of the weakness of the traditional EMD algorithm and presents a new midpoint-based EMD method for effective fault signature analysis of a rotating machine. In the proposed method, geometrical midpoints of successive extrema are employed to estimate the local mean of an analyzed signal. Signal decomposition is then self-adaptively performed to achieve IMFs through removal of the midpoint-based local means. The representative IMF containing fault information is selected for identifying the fault signature. The effectiveness of the proposed method was verified by means of simulation and an application to gear fault diagnosis. ...

CERN Document Server

The main LHC superconducting magnets (dipoles and quadrupoles) use Rutherford type cables, stabilized electrically and thermally with copper profiles. The portions of cables are connected to each other by a soft soldering technique (Sn96Ag4) with an overlapping length corresponding to one pitch of the superconducting strands. The splice constitutes a "composite" structure with the interchanging layers of Sn96Ag4 and NbTi superconductor, located inside a Cu cage. In order to ensure a high level of reliability (failure probability not exceeding 10-8) for some 10000 connections in the LHC, a non-destructive technique to check the quantity of solder in the joint is foreseen. The technique is based on a gamma ray source (241Am) and the detection is position-sensitive in the transmission mode. Scintillating detectors of gamma rays are used and their accumulated length corresponds to the length of the radioactive source (120 mm). The method can be ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A featfinding committee of the German Federal Parliament in July 1980 recommended to perform a ''risk-oriented study'' of the SNR-300, the German 300 MW fast breeder prototype reactor being under construction in Kalkar. The main aim of this study was to allow a comparative safety evaluation between the SNR-300 and a modern PWR, thus to prepare a basis for a political decision on the SNR-300. Methods and main results of the study are presented in this paper. In the first step of the risk analysis six groups of accidents have been identified which may initiate core destruction. These groups comprise all conceivable courses, potentially leading to core destruction. By reliability analyses, expected frequency of each group has been calculated. In the accident analysis potential failure modes of the reactor tank have been investigated. Core destruction may be accompanied by the release of significant amounts of mechanical energy. The primary coolant ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shadow effect was used for investigating damage of uranium dioxide monocrystal. The dependence of shadow minimum parameters on fluence of "2"2Ne ions with 172 MeV energy was followed when detecting fission fragments. Ion dose responsible for sufficient microdamage of lattice structure, included into the classification of heavy ion damage effect on monocrystals was determined. The problem of radiation intensity effect on the character of occurred damages was studied. It was established that macroscopic sample failure, caused by generation of considerable mechanical stresses in monocrystal under beam effect could be observed along with microdamages of lattice structure at ion flux density >10"1"2 cm"-"2Xs"-"1.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study was performed for evaluating the risk effect of digital systems on the total plant. Based on risk monitor, a fault tree model for the Korean Standard Nuclear Power Plants (KSNPP), we integrate the fault-tree models for Digital Plant Protection System (DPPS) and Digital Engineered SaFety Actuation System (DESFAS) which are the most important safety-critical I and C systems in the KSNPP. In this study, however, three important factors (the probabilities of manual actuation failure, the software failure probability, and the watchdog timer fault coverage) are treated as the variables of the sensitivity study because quantification methodologies for these factors are not developed yet. Not only the unavailability of digital safety-critical system itself, but also the risk effect of digital systems on the total plant should be assessed to prove the safety of digital systems. The result of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We review some interesting virtual effects from the minimal supersymmetric model (MSSM) at #gamma##gamma# colliders. We conclude that in the research respects, such as supersymmetric particle pair production, CP-violation and electroweak-like one-loop corrections in top quark pair production, the FCNC in the R_p-violating MSSM, linear collider (LC) operating in photon-photon collision mode provides powerful facilities in the measurements of new physics objects. For a precise and thorough study of the new physics, the investigation of the supersymmetric quantum effects is necessary. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report is the first of four volumes that identify and assess the environmental, health, and safety issues involved in using sodium-sulfur (Na/S) battery technology as the energy source in electric and hybrid vehicles that may affect the commercialization of Na/S batteries. This and the other reports on recycling, shipping, and vehicle safety are intended to help the Electric and Hybrid Propulsion Division of the Office of Transportation Technologies in the US Department of Energy (DOE/EHP) determine the direction of its research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) program for Na/S battery technology. The reports review the status of Na/S battery RD&D and identify potential hazards and risks that may require additional research or that may affect the design and use of Na/S batteries. This volume covers cell design and engineering as the basis of safety for Na/S batteries and describes and assesses the potential chemical, electrical, and thermal hazards and risks of Na/S ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A decoupled characteristic between the damping of a specific swing mode and the stabilizer gain of the corresponding machine in multimachine power systems is identified. Using this decoupled characteristic a power system stabilizer (PSS) synthesis approach which is based on the phase compensation concept is verified on a 9-machine system and the dynamic performance of this system is significantly improved. This method is proved to be effective, simple and it can provide useful guidance for the PSS field tuning.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper suggests how nonlinear periodic optimal control of a pumped storage plant can be realized. The control problem consists in maximization of the plant benefits over an operational period. An optimal control law is proposed, yielding a bang-off-bang mode of operation. An algorithm for numerical solution of the problem was developed, and its effectiveness was demonstrated by simulation experiments.

Science.gov (United States)

In this work, energy-based features for gear fault diagnosis and prediction are proposed. The instantaneous energy density is shown to obtain high values when defected teeth are engaged. Three methods are compared in terms of sensitivity, reliability and computation effectiveness. The Wigner Ville distribution is contrasted to the wavelet transform and the newly proposed empirical mode decomposition scheme. It is shown that all three methods are capable of a reliable prediction. An empirical law, which relates the energy content to the crack magnitude is established.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The theory of reliability is used to develop statistical field data on malfunctions of units of sucker rod well pumps (UShSN). The indices of reliability of the UShSN are applied for establishment of the cause-effect links between the operating factors. Dependences of operating time on the depth of suspension of the pumps, mode of pumping out, degree of flooding of the oil, and twisting of the shafts are established for conditions of specific fields. The obtained relationships can be used in selecting and optimizing the work of the UShSN.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The critical concentrations correspond to contamination thresholds of environments over which noxious effects can occur and deteriorate soils, water and vegetation. They are defined according to the type of pollutants and their mode of action. The aim of this document is to provide a scientific framework to the policies of reduction of atmospheric pollution negotiated at Geneva`s convention. The methodology of evaluation, the results obtained for surface waters and forest soils, the perspectives of French research and the integration of French knowledge in the European database are presented. (J.S.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper demonstrates how maglev technology solves the classic problem of integrating two airports in a metropolitan area. So far, this has never been attempted because the mode of transportation that could handle this challenge effectively had not been invented yet. This also means that maglev technology is no longer 'the solution in search of a problem'. (orig.)

CERN Document Server

The Fourier transform of cosmological density perturbations can be represented in terms of amplitudes and phases for each Fourier mode. We investigate the phase evolution of these modes using a mixture of analytical and numerical techniques. Using a toy model of one-dimensional perturbations evolving under the Zel'dovich approximation as an initial motivation, we develop a statistic that quantifies the information content of the distribution of phases. Using numerical simulations beginning with more realistic Gaussian random-phase initial conditions, we show that the information content of the phases grows from zero in the initial conditions, first slowly and then rapidly when structures become non-linear. This growth of phase information can be expressed in terms of an effective entropy: Gaussian initial conditions are a maximum entropy realisation of the initial power spectrum, gravitational evolution decreases the phase ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper reviews various techniques to harden Charged Coupled Device (CCD) sensors and the results after irradiation of three Thomson n buried channel CCDs having a different degree of hardening. It describes the major irradiation effects on CCD performances and it makes a comparison of the results between the different hardening levels. It shows good results on dark voltage after ionizing radiation for TH 7863M device hardened both by design and by operating conditions (MPP mode) with respect to the standard device TH 7863A. The irradiations were performed with "6"0Co or X-ray (10 keV) sources on devices in operating mode. (author). 3 refs., 8 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this paper, a neural networks (NN) based adaptive sliding mode controller (SMC) is introduced. The selection of SMC feedback gains is normally based on one operating point and thus the performance of the controller away from the design operating point is, of necessity, a compromise. The adaptive SMC is proposed to overcome the limitations imposed on the effectiveness of the SMC under different operating conditions. Neural networks are used for online prediction of the optimal SMC gains when the operating point changes. The proposed method has been applied to a power system stabilizer (PSS) of a single machine power system. Simulation results are included to demonstrate the performance of the proposed control scheme.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A versatile, high brightness, volume type, low power RF source, capable of producing positive ion beams with intensities as high as 1 mA from gaseous feed materials and microamperes of negative ion beams has been characterized. The source can also be operated as a plasma sputter negative ion source to generate up to 1 mA of a selected species. The performance of the source in the positive and negative volume modes of operation can be greatly enhanced by addition of a removable, water cooled filament assembly in place of the negative sputter probe. For examine, the material utilization efficiencies of gaseous feed species can be more than doubled, total current intensities increased up to 40%, molecular dissociation fractions increased by 20% and minimum operating pressures reduced by a factor of four when operated in the volume mode. These added electrons also favorably effect, as a consequence of lower pressures, the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two major modes of CO adsorption on SiO{sub 2}-supported Pd reflect different extents of back-donation, which is, at least in part, controlled by the local electron density at the adsorption site. The fraction of CO in the bridging mode (B) increases and that of the linear mode (L) decreases, with increasing size of the Pd particles, indicating high electron density at Pd atoms in terraces of close-packed crystal faces, in agreement with Smoluchowski's classical model. For samples reduced at 300{degree}C our data points and those of other authors are located on a common curve of B/L vs metal dispersion. Extensive reduction at 600{degree}C results in significantly lower B/L values, attributed to the incipient formation of a palladium silicide. Oxidation followed by reduction at 300{degree}C destroys the silicide, and the B/L value returns to the original curve.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The SONACO experiments are conducted on an electrically heated 37-pin rod bundle, immersed in liquid sodium and contained within a hexagonal wrapper. The rig was designed to investigate natural convection cooling for a geometry representative of fast reactor fuel assemblies. Heat can be removed from the test section in several ways, but in this paper only the axial cooling mode is examined. Above the heated bundle is a plenum, at the top of which is a cooling coil containing a separate, forced sodium flow. Heat transfer from the bundle to this cooling coil is effected by means of buoyancy driven circulatory flow in the sodium, and in the axial cooling mode almost all the heat is removed by the coil. This mode is intended to simulate the natural convection cooling of a blocked fuel assembly by way of thermosyphon coupling to the inner pool. In this paper experimental results are presented, for the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes progress on the Advanced Coal Liquefaction project by the Gulf Research and Development Company's Merriam Laboratory during the months of January through March 1983. The liquefaction behavior of Illinois No. 6 coal beneficiated in various ways was studied in both single-stage recycle (SRC II) and short contact time (SCT) modes of operation. The distillate yield increased as the iron level in the feed slurry increased in both modes of operation. In the SCT mode, the conversion increased at greater depths of cleaning. In the SRC II mode, the distillate yield and conversion were much higher with deep cleaning and add-back of pyrite than with conventional cleaning. Pyrite addition resulted in a significant increase in short contact time conversion of subbituminous Belle Ayr coal in both high and low quality solvents. Solvent quality itself, however, had little ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The requirements to design nuclear power plants for the effects of an instantaneous double-ended guillotine break (DEGB) of the reactor coolant piping have led to excessive design costs, interference with normal plant operation and maintenance, and unnecessary radiation exposure of plant maintenance personnel. This report describes an aspect of the NRC/Lawrence Livermore National laboratory-sponsored research program aimed at investigating whether the probability of DEGB in Reactor Coolant Loop Piping of nuclear power plants is acceptably small such that the requirements to design for the DEGB effects (e.g., provision of pipe whip restraints) may be removed. This study estimates the probability of indirect DEGB in Reactor Coolant piping as a consequence of seismic-induced structural failures within the containment of the GE supplied boiling water reactor at the Brunswick nuclear power plant. The median probability of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The failure rate of dashpots has been determined on the basis of the results of annually recurring function tests on hydraulic dashpots, in order to determine the effects of longer test cycles on the safety of systems GKN I and GKN II. The use of a calculation method made it possible to establish the number of defective dashpots in the system as a whole. A subsequent investigation illustrated the way in which this figure changes when the test interval is increased from four to ten years, and the effects of this on system safety. (orig.) [Deutsch] Zur Ermittlung der Auswirkungen verlaengerter Pruefzyklen auf die Sicherheit der Anlagen GKN I und GKN II wurde, basierend auf Ergebnisse der jaehrlichen Funktionspruefung an hydraulischen Stossbremsen, die Fehlerrate der Stossbremsen bestimmt. Mit Hilfe eines Berechnungsverfahrens konnte die Anzahl maengelbehafteter Stossbremsen in der Gesamtanlage bestimmt werden. Eine ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Most designers are not schooled in the area of human-interaction psychology and therefore tend to rely on the traditional ergonomic aspects of human factors when designing complex human-interactive workstations. Unfortunately, by ignoring the importance of the integration of the user interface at the psychophysiological level, the result can be ineffective use of a system leading to an inherently error- and failure-prone system. Therefore, to minimize failures in a human-interactive system, it is essential that designers understand how each user`s processing characteristics affect how the user gathers and processes information. By understanding the significant processing characteristics of the user, designers can implement practical and effective visual displays (or any other type of system) that are more desirable to all users. The material presented in this paper is based on a general study that involved users` ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report presents the results of analysis of selected data from the NRU test series dealing with heatup and reflood heat transfer during postulated PWR LOCA conditions. These tests used nuclear fuel rods and some considered clad ballooning and rupture. Also included was an electrically-heated rod ballooning test, REBEKA-6. The COBRA-TF computer program, renamed PYTHONS, was modified and used for the analytical tool. Modifications included provisions for fuel rod gas flow and pressure, creep deformation and rupture, channel blockage, and blockage heat transfer. Calculated clad temperatures for NRU unpressurized rods show quite good agreement with experimental data. The calculated amount and axial extent of clad ballooning for pressurized rods agrees reasonably well with post-test examinations of the NRU bundles. Time to failure was underpredicted in the MT-3 test as a result of the high strength of NRU clad material which was not represented in the PYTHONS creep ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An overall view of the 1982 plant operating performance is presented. All periods of ON-FEED operation, UNSCHEDULED SHUTDOWNS, and SCHEDULED SHUTDOWNS are accounted for and tabulated. Causes of UNSCHEDULED SHUTDOWNS are identified and discussed. Plant solutions aimed at reducing the effect of similar future shutdowns or preventing recurrence of such shutdowns are explained. Details of repeated, major maintenance problems with various pieces of equipment are presented. Discussion of each problem and solutions found during 1982 are given, where applicable.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We investigate, from a spacetime perspective, some aspects of Horowitz's recent conjecture that black strings may catalyze the decay of Kaluza-Klein spacetimes into a bubble of nothing. We identify classical configurations that interpolate between flat space and the bubble, and discuss the energetics of the transition. We investigate the effects of winding tachyons on the size and shape of the barrier and find no evidence at large compactification radius that tachyons enhance the tunneling rate. For the interesting radii, of order the string scale, the question is difficult to answer due to the failure of the {alpha}' expansion.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Marburg virus belongs to the genus Marburgvirus in the family Filoviridae and causes a severe hemorrhagic fever, known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever (MHF), in both humans and nonhuman primates. Similar to the more widely known Ebola hemorrhagic fever, MHF is characterized by systemic viral replication, immunosuppression and abnormal inflammatory responses. These pathological features of the disease contribute to a number of systemic dysfunctions including hemorrhages, edema, coagulation abnormalities and, ultimately, multiorgan failure and shock, often resulting in death. A detailed understanding of the pathological processes that lead to this devastating disease remains elusive, a fact that contributes to the lack of licensed vaccines or effective therapeutics. This article will review the...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Control of pressure transients in a hydraulic system may be important and necessary to avoid failures and to improve the efficiency of operation. Flow restricting devices can result in a decrease in the peak pressure, but may change the response time. The response time has an important effect on both operator and operator perceived smoothness. The response time should correspond to how fast a system responds to a given disturbance at the system boundary. Occasionally the appropriate response time is not easily determined. This study is on the response time characteristics in the hydraulic system studied for the control of response time.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the report the results of the estimations of radiological risk of various stages of decommissioning of nuclear submarines are presented. At occurrence on nuclear submarine the heavy failure, relating to the class hypotetical volume of acting of radionuclides in atmosphere can reach 1.6E(15) Bq. Results of estimations probable doses on an axis of a trace of a radioactive loop show, that at distribution of radionuclides during atmospheric carry to 'agreed' settlement (500-1000 m) the maximum doses on its territory can make: about 6.0E(-3) Sv (for the whole body); 3.0E(-3) Gy for the leather (basal layer); 6.3E(-2) Gy for the lungs (acute exposure) and up to 1.8 Gy for the thyroid gland. Hypotetical failure for the estimation of the greatest possible radioecological consequences for hydrobiocenosis is considering, connected with single discharge of liquid radioactive waste (LRW) in water area. At navigating failure of the ...

CERN Document Server

Focusing and resonance properties of two-dimensional small-size hemielliptic lenses made of different materials are studied numerically in order to estimate the influence of internal reflections on the radiation characteristics of dielectric lens antennas. Accuracy of in-house made algorithms based on combination of geometrical and physical optics and FDTD in the analysis of optical and modal effects in the behavior of such lenses is tested by comparison with the exact solution obtained using the Muller boundary integral equations. The range of applicability for the approaches is discussed.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Heart failure affects nearly 6 million Americans, with a half-million new cases emerging each year. Whereas up to 50% of heart failure patients die of arrhythmia, the diverse mechanisms underlying...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Rationale Smokers report enhanced concentration after cigarette smoking and difficulty concentrating when abstinent from smoking. These perceived effects may contribute to smoking cessation failures, and if so, clarification of their cognitive bases could inform treatment strategies. Selective attention may be important in this regard, but earlier literature presents inconsistent findings on how smoking abstinence and resumption of smoking influence this cognitive function. Objectives We aimed to compare smokers and nonsmokers on selective attention, and in smokers, to test the effects of overnight abstinence from smoking and of acute smoking on selective attention. Materials and methods Smokers and nonsmokers (n?=?43) performed a Stroop test (two test days, two test blocks per day). Smoke...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Heart failure has been singled out as an emerging epidemic, which could be the result of increased incidence and/or increased survival leading to increased prevalence. Knowledge of the responsibility...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. CHF is marked by atrial and ventricular enlargement and reduced cardiac contractility, as well as an association...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Understanding the influence of interfacial structures on the nanoarchitecture mechanical properties is of particular importance for its mechanical applications. Due to a small size of constituting nanostructural units and a consequently high volume ratio of such interfacial regions, this question becomes crucial for the overall mechanical performance. Boron nitride bamboo-like nanotubes, called hereafter boron nitride nanobamboos (BNNBs), are composed of short BN nanotubular segments with specific interfaces at the bamboo-shaped joints. In this work, the mechanical properties of such structures are investigated by using direct in situ transmission electron microscopy tensile tests and molecular dynamics simulations. The mechanical properties and deformation behaviors are correlated with the interfacial structure under atomic resolution, and a geometry strengthening effect is clearly demonstrated. Due to the interlocked joint interfacial structures and compressive ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This research involves the development of an analysis which yielded recommendations regarding the plate thickness at which the effects of transverse shear become significant enough to be taken into consideration during vibration testing of composite plates. The specimens designed using this analysis are to be used for the {open_quotes}inverse{close_quotes} problem of determining through-the-thickness elastic constants as well as in-plane elastic constants from modal vibration response data. The effects of transverse shear were studied over the range of practical plate aspect ratios (length to thickness ratios) and mode numbers. Behavior of composite plates ranging from isotropic to highly orthotropic was studied in order to investigate the effects of transverse shear. Orthotropic plates having in-plane dimensions of 254 x 254 mm and thicknesses varying from 10 mm to 80 mm, with free-free edge boundary ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Since the mid-1990s, nuclear power plants in Korea have experienced wall thinning, leaks, and ruptures of secondary side piping caused by flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC). The pipe failures have increased as operating time progresses. In order to prevent the FAC-induced pipe failures and to develop an effective FAC management strategy, KEPRI and KOPEC have conducted a study for developing systematic FAC management technology for secondary side piping of all Korean nuclear power plants. As a part of the study, FAC analyses were performed using the CHECWORKS code. The analysis results were used to select components for inspection and to determine inspection intervals on each nuclear power plant. This paper describes the introduction of the FAC analysis method and the wall thinning trend analysis results by reactor type, system, and water treatment amine. This paper also represents the site application feasibility for ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The 6911 m long Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) at CERN with a peak energy of 450 GeV is at the top of the LHC preaccelerator-complex. Apart from the LHC, the SPS is with the Tevatron the accelerator with the largest stored beam energy of up to 2.5 MJ. The SPS has a known vulnerability to fast equipment failures that led to an uncontrolled loss of a high intensity beam in 2008, which resulted in major damage of a main dipole. The beam loss was caused by a fast tune decrease towards an integer resonance. Simulations and distinct experimental studies provide clear understanding of the beam dynamics at different SPS tune resonances. Diverging closed orbit oscillations, dispersion explosion and increased beta-beating are the driving effects that lead to a complete beam loss in as little as 10 turns (230 #mu#s) after reaching the stop band of the resonance. Dedicated experiments of fast failures of the main power converters ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Microstructural evolution due to thermal effects was studied in micro solder joints (55 {+-} 5 {micro}m). The composition of the Sn/Pb solder studied was found to be hypereutectic with a tin content of 65--70 wt%.This was determined by Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis and confirmed with quantitative stereology. The quantitative stereological value of the surface-to-volume ratio was used to characterize and compare the coarsening during thermal cycling from 0--160 C to the coarsening during annealing at 160 C. The initial coarsening of the annealed samples was more rapid than the cycled samples, but tapered off as time to the one-half as expected. Because the substrates to which the solder was bonded have different thermal expansion coefficients, the cycled samples experienced a mechanical strain with thermal cycling. The low-strain cycled samples had a 2.8% strain imposed on the solder and failed by 1,000 cycles, despite undergoing less coarsening than the annealed ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The downstream failure of cable during winding, insulating, coil winding, and coil assembly is a significant issue in magnet production. The impact of these failures is costly both financially and because of the time needed to recover from them. The current approach to cabling has been to visually inspect the cable for any gross defects during cabling. To date this has been effective in finding small defects such as crossovers, which drastically reduce the mechanical integrity of the strand and thus of the cable itself. But because of the large volume of cable that will be manufactured, an automated flaw detection system that can inspect the cable and detect these types of defects will be needed. We have recently done an on-line experiment using an Eddy current system and specialized Eddy current probes to inspect cable during manufacturing. We will present the results of our inspection, demonstrating detection of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In order to develop competitive and reliable nuclear power generation systems, development of innovative structural design methods is indispensable and risk-based design approach based on the assessment of failure probability is being developed. Fatigue is commonly considered as an important contributor to failure probability in many components of reactor systems and its assessment gives a large influence on total reliability of the plants. In order to assess its effect on the reliability, propagation of cracks needs to be evaluated as well as their initiation and pre-existence probability. As a part of new design approach, efforts are being taken to develop a simplified estimation method for fatigue crack growth under cyclic application of thermal and thermo-mechanical loading. A simplified estimation method of J-integral based on reference stress method and elastic follow-up factor was developed based on many finite ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Steel structures immersed in seawater are protected from corrosion using cathodic protection systems (sacrificial anodes or impressed current), by paint coatings or by duplex systems in which cathodic protection hinders corrosion at coating's failure sites. The main problem related to those duplex systems is how to avoid cathodic delamination due to the alkalinity generated at cathodic sites. The present paper analyses the effectiveness of red mud suspensions as pre-treatment to avoid cathodic delamination. The study was conducted using mainly electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The evolution of the electrode potential with immersion time was also recorded because it concerns the practical aspect of current density necessary to reach the protection potential. The study shows that red mud pre-treatments are effective in avoiding coating's delamination. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The interscalenic block technique is widely used for ambulatory shoulder surgery despite a substantial number of failures and adverse effects. We prospectively evaluated satisfaction in 40 consecutive patients who underwent open Bankart repair under a single general anesthesic performed in an ambulatory care unit. The mean age of the patients was 23 years. There were 29 men and 11 women. Patients were evaluated postoperatively with a visual analog scale of pain (in the recovery room, at the time of discharge, and the day after and 1 week after surgery) via a home assessment questionnaire that included the following: effectiveness of oral pain medication, ability to perform activities of daily life, and overall satisfaction. One patient failed to be discharged because of a feeling of faintn...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Purpose: To determine if involved field radiation (IF) is equivalent to standard whole bone radiation (SF) in local tumor control; to establish patterns of failure following treatment; and to determine response, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival rates from multidisciplinary therapy in Ewing's sarcoma. Methods and Materials: Between 1983 and 1988, 184 children with Ewing's sarcoma were enrolled onto Pediatric Oncology Group 8346 (POG 8346). A total of 178 (97%) met eligibility criteria; 6 had pathology other than Ewing's sarcoma. Induction chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin (adriamycin )(C/A) x 12 weeks was followed by local treatment either surgery or radiation therapy and C/A, dactinomycin, and vincristine for 50 weeks. Resection was advised for patients with small primary tumors if accomplished without functional loss. Forty patients were randomized to receive SF, whole bone radiation to 39.6 Gy plus a 16.2 Gy boost (total 55.8 Gy) or IF ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The high frequency, low mode number toroidicity-induced Alfven eigenmodes (TAE) are shown to be driven unstable by the circulating and/or trapped {alpha}-particles through the wave-particle resonances. Satisfying the resonance condition requires that the {alpha}-particle birth speed v{sub {alpha}} {ge} v{sub A}/2{vert bar}m-nq{vert bar}, where v{sub A} is the Alfven speed, m is the poloidal model number, and n is the toroidal mode number. To destabilize the TAE modes, the inverse Landau damping associated with the {alpha}-particle pressure gradient free energy must overcome the velocity space Landau damping due to both the {alpha}-particles and the core electrons and ions. The growth rate was studied analytically with a perturbative formula derived from the quadratic dispersion relation, and numerically with the aid of the NOVA-K code. Stability criteria in terms of the {alpha}-particle beta {beta}{sub {alpha}}, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The deexcitation of quasi-projectiles (QP) released in binary Au on Au collisions as been studied from 60 to 100 MeV/u. Bimodality between two different decay patterns has been observed for intermediate violence collisions. The main experimental result is that the system jumps from one mode to the other on a narrow range of energy deposit and/or impact parameter. The sorting of the events (according to the violence of the collision) has been provided by the perpendicular energy of the light charged particles emitted on the quasi-target side. Such a sorting prevents spurious autocorrelation effects between the sorting variable and the observed mechanism. The two modes of the QP decay correspond on the one side to residue or fission fragments production, and on the other side to the multifragmentation channel. A detailed study has been performed in order to try to establish the origin of the observed bimodality in ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper discusses how to overcome failures and pitfalls in software configuration management. (LSP)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Power system components, especially components failure, can significantly affect the reliability of a power system. Data about failure rate in electrical products were obtained from products life testing and analyzed in order to predict reliability. The distribution curve fitting method was used to estimate failure probability. Ten relays of different life times have been used to illustrate the validity of this analytical technique. 3 refs., 3 tabs.

KoreaScience (Korea)

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KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A method for conditioning electron beams is proposed, making use of the TM{sub 210} mode of microwave cavities, to reduce the axial velocity spread within the beam, in order to enhance gain in resonant electron beam devices, such as the free-electron laser (FEL). Effectively, a conditioner removes the restriction on beam emittance. The conditioner is analyzed using a simple model for beam transport and ideal RF cavities. Analysis of an FEL is employed to evaluate performance with reduced axial velocity spread. Examples of FELs are presented showing the distinct advantage of conditioning.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report discusses the following topics: impedance and bunch lengthening; single bunch stability in the ESRF; a longitudinal mode-coupling instability model for bunch lengthening; high-frequency behavior of longitudinal coupling impedance; beam-induced energy spreads at beam-pipe transitions; on the calculation of wake functions using MAFIA-T3 code; preliminary measurements of the bunch length and the impedance of LEP; measurements and simulations of collective effects in the CERN SPS; bunch lengthening in the SLC damping rings; and status of impedance measurements for the spring-8 storage ring.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The following questions, concerning the application of the harmonic oscillator representation (HOR) in the theory of scattering and reactions, are discussed: the formulation of the scattering theory in HOR; exact solutions of the free motion Schroedinger equation in HOR; separable expansion of the short range potentials and the calculation of the phase shifts; `isolated states` as generalization of the Wigner-von Neumann bound states embedded in continuum; a nuclear coupled channel problem in HOR; and the description of true three body scattering in HOR. As an illustration the soft dipole mode in the (11)Li nucleus is considered in a frame of the (9)Li+n+n cluster model taking into account three body continuum effects.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two mesoscopic SQUID rings which are far from each other are considered. A source of two-mode nonclassical microwaves irradiates the two rings with correlated photons. The Josephson currents are in this case quantum mechanical operators, and their expectation values with respect to the density matrix of the microwaves yield the experimentally observed currents. Classically correlated (separable) and quantum mechanically correlated (entangled) microwaves are considered, and their effect on the Josephson currents is quantified. Results for two different examples that involve microwaves in number states and coherent states are derived. It is shown that the quantum statistics of the tunnelling electron pairs through the Josephson junctions in the two rings are correlated.

Science.gov (United States)

The dynamic response characteristics of the VAWT rotor are important factors governing the safety and fatigue life of VAWT systems. The principal problems are the determination of critical rotor speeds (resonances) and the assessment of forced vibration response amplitudes. The solution to these problems is complicated by centrifugal and coriolis effects which can have substantial influence on rotor resonant frequencies and mode shapes. This paper will describe and discuss the primary tools now in use at Sandia National Laboratories for rotor analysis. These tools include a lumped springmass model (VAWTDYN) and also finite-element based approaches. The discussion will center on the accuracy and completeness of current capabilities and plans for future research.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Use of hydrogen absorbing alloys in various practical applications is always connected with the problem of production of starting alloys. The transition from laboratory samples to small-scale production involves the change of furnace and its operation mode and this has an effect on the preparation method of mixture of starting metal. Also, for some applications such as thermosorption compressors the exact values of thermodynamical parameters of reaction are needed. In the present work we present the results of investigation of series Laves phase hydrogen-absorbing alloys which can be promising in for use in different devices. 1 ref.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The instrument ball bearings are the key components of movable components for various kinds of measuring and control instruments; they often operate in the environmental condition of high-speed and light preload. In general, the non metal, disposable oilimpregnated retainer material has been used for these kinds of high precision miniature bearing. The engineering practice shows that the common failure mode of them is the wear which appears under the condition of insufficient lubrication condition. As the results, the vibration and noise will be enlarged, so does the frictional torque, which makes the ball bearings to lose its original working accuracy. It is the lifetime test of bearings that can enable the designers and manufacturers to chose the material of the bearing properly, optimize the product structure, mend the manufacturing technique process, and to enhance the technical level of the bearing products significantly. In this paper, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Extensive investigations and detailed analysis of the failure reason of 9DVN002ZV fan in Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station showed that the fan destroy was caused by the failure of non-drive end bear. The direct cause of this bearing' failure was its improper assembly caused by improper maintenance procedure, and the root cause was too small internal radial clearance after mounting. The factor affecting bearing internal radial clearance, the relationship between clearance and operating life time and fan failure process were discussed. (authors)

Science.gov (United States)

Four major natriuretic peptides have been isolated: atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), and Dendroaspis-type natriuretic peptide (DNP). Natriuretic peptides play an important role in the regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis maintaining blood pressure and extracellular fluid volume. The classical endocrine effects of natriuretic peptides to modulate fluid and electrolyte balance and vascular smooth muscle tone are complemented by autocrine and paracrine actions that include regulation of coronary blood flow and, therefore, myocardial perfusion; modulation of proliferative responses during myocardial and vascular remodeling; and cytoprotective anti-ischemic effects. The actions of natriuretic peptides are mediated by the specific binding of these peptides to three cell surface receptors: type A natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR-A), type B natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR-B), ...

Science.gov (United States)

In acute liver failure following hepatitis, toxic insults, or after major liver surgery, there is an increased bacterial translocation from the gut. This may explain some of the infectious complications seen in these conditions. To elucidate mechanisms and find possible preventive measures, we investigated the effect of rectal administration of arginine and probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus spp.) on bacterial translocation and the extent of liver failure. Sprague-Dawley rats were used and five different Lactobacillus strains (Lb. reuteri R2LC, Lb. rhamnosus DSM 6594 (= strain 271), Lb. plantarum DSM 9843 (= strain 299v), Lb. fermentum 8704:3 (= strain 245), and Lb. reuteri (= strain 108) were administered rectally once daily for 8 days with and without 2% arginine. Acute liver injury (ALI) was induced on the eighth day by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactosamine (1.1 g/kg body weight), and samples were collected after ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The MTX explored the plasma heating effects of 140 GHz microwaves from both Gyrotrons and from the IMP FEL wiggler. The Gyrotron was long pulse length (0.5 seconds maximum) and the FEL produced short-pulse length, high-peak power, single and burst modes of 140 GHZ microwaves. Full-power operations of the IMP FEL wiggler were commenced in April of 1992 and continued into October of 1992. The Experimental Test Accelerator H (ETA-II) provided a 50-nanosecond, 6-MeV, 2--3 kAmp electron beam that was introduced co-linear into the IMP FEL with a 140 GHz Gyrotron master oscillator (MO). The FEL was able to amplify the MO signal from approximately 7 kW to peaks consistently in the range of 1--2 GW. This microwave pulse was transmitted into the MTX and allowed the exploration of the linear and non-linear effects of short pulse, intense power in the MTX plasma. Single pulses were used to explore and gain operating experience in the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The technology for performance testing and improvement of materials which are durable at space environment is a military related technology and veiled and securely regulated in advanced countries such as US and Russia. This core technology cannot be easily transferred to other country too. Therefore, this technology is the most fundamental and necessary research area for the successful establishment of space environment system. Since the task for evaluating the effects of space materials and components by space radiation plays important role in satellite lifetime extension and running failure percentage decrease, it is necessary to establish simulated space radiation facility and systematic testing procedure. This report has dealt with the status of the technology to enable the simulation of space environment effects, including the effect of space radiation on space materials. This information such as ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sudden changes in the temperature of flowing liquids can result in transient buoyancy forces which strongly impact the flow hydrodynamics via flow stratification. These effects have been studied for the case of potential flow of stratified liquids to line sinks, but not for moderator flow in SRS reactors. Standard codes, such as TRAC and COMMIX, do not have the capability to capture the stratification effect, due to strong numerical diffusion which smears away the hot/cold fluid interface. A related problem with standard codes is the inability to track plumes injected into the liquid flow, again due to numerical diffusion. The combined effects of buoyant stratification and plume dispersion have been identified as being important in operation the Supplementary Safety System which injects neutron-poison ink into SRS reactors to provide safe shutdown in the event of safety rod failure. The MODFLOW code ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Many mechanical parts are subjected to stresses and strains that may eventually lead to their failure. In order to prevent the costly delays associated with equipment down-time, many parts have to be tested for weaknesses and defects when machinery is constructed or dismantled for maintenance. These procedures are known as Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods. Five types of non-destructive testing methods routinely used are radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, liquid penetrant testing and eddy current testing. Out of these five techniques industrial radiography plays an important role in non-destructive testing to reveal interior defects in materials. In radiography almost two-thirds of the radiation reaching the film is scattered radiation which does not form the image of defects. Scattered radiation generated inside and outside a material has a very large effect on sensitivity of flaw detection since it ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents the regulatory experience gained from Wolsong Units 2,3 and 4 - Special Safety System Instrumentation Uncertainty for Trip Setpoint and Allowable Values. The equipment diversity method for the defense against common mode failure was applied to the transmitters of shutdown system number 2. However the Units experienced an unexpected drift problem with which the performance did not meet the Technical Specification (Tech Spec) Surveillance Requirements (SR). Discussed are the background, status and corrective actions, regulatory positions and issues to be solved for the drift problem. It was an instrument uncertainty methodology that the designer of safety system should have shown when the drift problem occurred. For deeper understanding of the problem, we present the background of Tech Spec SR for setpoints in Korean PWR and in CANDU reactors. The Setpoint Verification Test(SVT) and Calibration Test(CT) shall be achieved by ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Under the current design philosophy, reactor structures are to be designed to withstand large inelastic deformation caused by strong and severe ground motion. The design of the main structural elements and their connections are to be such that they always fail in ductile mode. This will ensure large energy absorption capacity of the structures under seismic excitation and avoid sudden and brittle failure of the structure. Over the years, a number of experimental investigations have been carried out on RC beam- column joints to study their behaviour and strength. However, these studies mostly pertain to small scale joints of moment resisting frame of residential buildings and commercial complexes. Information on full scale joints existing in NPP structures are scanty. Therefore, experimental programme was planned in the laboratory to construct identical large sized joints with the same reinforcement percentage and detail as that of the existing ...

Science.gov (United States)

A computer was built for use with the NRU reactor to solve the problem of Xe/sup 135/ concentrations. The effect of any changes in reactor on Xe/sup 135/ concentration can be predicted and steps taken to avoid poisoning out. An electromechanical system was used for the computer to avoid the inherent disadvantages that electronic analog computers present for problems of very long solution times. The electromechanical analog computer has a high order of reliability and contains no vaccum tubes, commutators, slip rings, relays, or aluminum electrolytic capacitors. It is insensitive to transient disturbarce. In the event of failure of components or interruption of line voltage, it will retain existing information. The computer was designed for ~ 1% accuracy in Xe/ sup 135/ concentration readings. (W.D.M.)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose To evaluate disease failure patterns and overall survival (OS) of women with triple-negative (TN) breast cancer who underwent breast-conserving therapy (BCT) and to understand the relationship of TN tumors with other prognostic factors. Patients and Methods The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry identified 562 women diagnosed and/or treated with unilateral invasive breast cancer during 2003?2004 at three Emory hospitals. After medical record review, 193 eligible women, with all tumor types, received BCT. Primary endpoints (local, regional, and distant recurrences) and secondary endpoint (OS) were evaluated using chi-square tests and Cox proportional hazards models. Results Of the 193 women, 33 (17.1%) had TN tumors and 160 (82.9%) had non-TN tumors. Patient...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) depend on technology to meet their daily needs and form relationships. Speech generating devices (SGDs) are integral components of communication systems. Reliability of SGDs is critical for effective use in everyday life. This study examined the reliability of new SGDs and found that mean time to first failure was 42.7 (SD = 41.2) weeks and at least 40% required repairs within the first year of use. The components that most frequently broke down were touch screens, wiring, main boards, batteries, memory cards, and AC adaptors. The costs of repairing SGDs were analyzed. The clinical implications of device breakdown are identified for key stakeholders, including clients, families, service providers, funding agencies, and ma...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Advances in nuclear reactor technology and the use of gas-cooled fast reactors require the development of new materials that can operate at the higher temperatures expected in these systems. These include refractory alloys base on Nb, Zr, Ta, Mo, W, and Re; ceramics and composites such as those based on silicon carbide (SiCf-SiC); carbon-carbon composites; and advanced coatings. Besides the ability to handle higher expected temperatures, effective heat transfer between reactor componets is necessary for improved efficiency. Improving thermal conductivity of the materials used in nuclear fuels and other temperature critical components can lower the center-line fuel temperature and thereby enhance durability and reduce the risk of premature failure.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Durability is a major limitation of current proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Mechanical stress due to hygro-thermal cycling is one failure mechanism of the polymer electrolyte membrane. In previous work the cyclic rate, temperature, and hydration dependent elastic-viscoplastic mechanical behavior of Nafion has been extensively investigated in uniaxial and biaxial tension, serving as a data basis and means of validation for a three-dimensional constitutive model. Here, the important effect of loading via constrained swelling is studied. Specifically, two types of loading are investigated: partially constrained swelling via a bimaterial swelling test and hygro-thermal cycling within a fuel cell. The bimaterial swelling conditions are examined via experiments in conjunction with modeling....

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This new book presents a practical how to approach to understanding and solving the problems of corrosion of structural materials. Although it is written mainly for those having a limited technical background in corrosion, it also provides more experienced engineers with a useful overview of the principles of corrosion and can be used as a general guide for developing a corrosion-control program. Contents include: the effects and economic impact of corrosion; basic concepts important to corrosion; principles of aqueous corrosion; forms of corrosion: recognition and prevention; types of corrosive environments; corrosion characteristics of structural materials; corrosion control by proper design; corrosion control by materials selection; corrosion control by protective coatings and inhibitors; corrosion control by cathodic and anodic protection; corrosion testing and monitoring; techniques for diagnosis of corrosion failures; and glossary of ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The colonization of an implant surface by bacteria is an extremely important medical problem, which often leads to the failure of medical devices. Modern surface modification techniques, such as ion implantation, can confer to the surfaces very different properties from those of the bulk underlying material. In this work, austenitic stainless steel 316 LVM has been superficially modified by Si^+ ion implantation. The effect of surface modification on the biocompatibility and bacterial adhesion to 316 LVM stainless steel has been investigated. To this aim, human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), as precursor of osteoblastic cells, and bacterial strains relevant in infections related to orthopedic implants, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, have been assayed. For the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An approximate expression for whistler-mode group velocity is obtained, taking into account the effects of electron temperature and anisotropy, density and ion effects, effects of oblique propagation and a non-dipolarity of the dayside magnetospheric magnetic field. This expression is applied to the propagation of whistlers between one hemisphere and the other. It is pointed out that at frequencies close to the upper cut-off of whistler spectra, perturbations to whistler group delay times due to temperature effects can be of the same order of magnitude as, or even higher than, the corresponding perturbations due to finite electron density and ion effects. A method of magnetospheric electron temperature diagnostics is proposed and applied to two whistlers recorded at Halley (L = 4.3). It is pointed out that the values of temperature obtained from the analysis of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes the state of the art of electric energy storage technologies and discusses how adding intermittent renewable energy technologies (IRETs) to a utility network affects the benefits from storage dispatch. Load leveling was the mode of storage dispatch examined in the study. However, the report recommended that other modes be examined in the future for kilowatt and kilowatt-hour optimization of storage. The motivation to install storage with IRET generation can arise from two considerations: reliability and enhancement of the value of energy. Because adding storage increases cost, reliability-related storage is attractive only if the accruing benefits exceed the cost of storage installation. The study revealed that the operation of storage should not be guided by the output of the IRET but rather by system marginal costs. Consequently, in planning studies to quantify benefits, storage should not be considered as an entity ...

CERN Document Server

We improve the steady-state ab initio laser theory (SALT) of Tureci et al. by expressing its fundamental self-consistent equation in a basis set of threshold constant flux states that contains the exact threshold lasing mode. For cavities with non-uniform index and/or non-uniform gain, the new basis set allows the steady-state lasing properties to be computed with much greater efficiency. This formulation of the SALT can be solved in the single-pole approximation, which gives the intensities and thresholds, including the effects of nonlinear hole-burning interactions to all orders, with negligible computational effort. The approximation yields a number of analytic predictions, including a "gain-clamping" transition at which strong modal interactions suppress all higher modes. We show that the single-pole approximation agrees well with exact SALT calculations, particularly for high-Q cavities. Within this range of validity, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Electrical power is generated by steam turbines (steam being produced by coal, oil, gas or nuclear reactors), hydro units, gas turbines, internal combustion engines, jet engines, and pumped storage plants. Nuclear Power Plants generate only 15% of the total electrical power in the US. Nuclear Power Plants being cheaper to run are generally base loaded. The pumped-storage and gas turbine plants have ideal characteristics for peaking duty. In the pumping mode, pumped storage plants are used to provide additional system load and in the generating mode, they supply reactive power during peak load demands. Gas turbine plants have higher running costs, but are used as peaking units with a fast start capability. Fossil power plants need a minimum of 1 hour to stabilize expansion in the boiler and turbine generator. Due to a more competitive power supply market due to deregulation, most of the utilizes plan generation only for the next three years. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The choice of vacuum state for a quantum scalar field propagating in a de Sitter spacetime (massive and arbitrarily coupled to the gravitational field) is discussed. The problem of finite-time initial conditions for the mode functions is analyzed, as well as how these determine the vacuum state of the quantum system. The principle guiding the choice of vacuum state is the following: one wants the vacuum contribution to the energy-momentum tensor to contain all the ultraviolet divergent terms, so that the particle creation terms are finite, and covariantly conserved. There is a suitable set of modes (instantaneous adiabatic basis) in which this splitting of the expectation value of the energy-momentum tensor can be carried out. Numerical results are presented for different finite-time initial conditions (m = 0.6, {zeta} = 1/6). The nature of the particle creation effect is described and its relationship to the concept of a ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Purpose: To determine if involved field radiation (IF) is equivalent to standard whole bone radiation (SF) in local tumor control; to establish patterns of failure following treatment; and to determine response, event free (EFS) and overall survival rates from multi-disciplinary therapy in Ewing's Sarcoma (ES). Materials and Methods: Between 1983 and 1988, 184 children with ES were enrolled onto POG 8346. 178 (97%) met eligibility criteria; 6 had non-ES pathology. Induction treatment of Cyclophosphamide/Adriamycin (C/A) x 12 weeks was followed by local treatment either surgery or radiation therapy (XRT) and C/A, Dactinomycin and Vincristine for 50 weeks. Resection was advised for patients with small primary tumors if accomplished without functional loss. 40 patients were randomized to receive SF, whole bone XRT to 39.6 Gy plus a 16.2 Gy boost (total 55.8 Gy) or IF to 55.8 Gy while 84 were assigned to IF XRT. Results: Of 179 eligible patients, 141 (79%) had ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper evaluates the electric current terms from the longitudinal gradient of the longitudinal electric field in Bipolar Field-Effect-Transistors (BiFETs) with a pure base and two MOS gates operating in the unipolar (electron) current mode. These nMOS-BiFETs, known as nMOS-FinFETs, usually have electrically short channels compared with their intrinsic Debye length of about 25 #mu#m at room temperatures. These longitudinal electric current terms are important short-channel current components, which have been neglected in the computation of the long-channel electrical characteristics. This paper shows that the long-channel electrical characteristics are substantially modified by the longitudinal electrical current terms when the physical channel length is less than 100 nm.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The effect of tsub(A) austenitization temperature in heating for quenching as well as in the cycle of high-temperature thermomechanical treatment (HTMT) on structure, mechanical properties and fracture mode of 40KhN2MA structural steel is investigated. It is shown that heating up to 1200 deg C does not affect essentially sigmasub(b) and sigmasub(0.2) of a quenched material but increases fracture toughness of 200 deg C - tempered precracked specimens and is accompanied by a decrease of impact strength and plasticity of vee-notched specimens. The optimum complex of mechanical properties is attained upon combined treatment comprising heating up to 1200 deg C and HTMT with deformation at 850 deg C.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ultra-short-pulse reflectometry is studied by means of the numerical integration of a one-dimensional full-wave equation for ordinary modes propagating in a plasma. The numerical calculations illustrate the potential of using the reflection of ultra-short-pulse, microwaves as an effective probe of the density profile even in the presence of significant density fluctuations. The difference in time delays of differing frequency components of the microwaves can be used to deduce the density profile. The modification of the reflected pulses in the presence of density fluctuations is examined and can be understood based on considerations of Bragg resonance. A simple and effective profile-reconstruction algorithm using the zero-crossings of the reflected pulse and subsequent Abel inversion is demonstrated. The robustness of the profile reconstruction algorithm in the presence of a sufficiently small amplitude density perturbation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Breaker failure relaying has been generally achieved through the use of a current monitoring relay to determine whether current continues to flow into a fault after a breaker has been instructed to interrupt the circuit. If current continues to flow after a predefined period of time, the circuit breaker is considered to have failed. Steps must then be taken to trip the next set of upstream breakers in the power system to remove the faulted circuit and prevent system damage. However, with industrial power systems, this may be the utility`s breakers on the feeding transmission line. Regardless, breaker failure schemes must be designed to isolate both the faulted circuit and the failed circuit breaker. This paper discusses a new and innovative method of protecting a circuit breaker from the failure described above, plus other failures that go unprotected with conventional schemes, this providing total ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty(PTA) and to determine the factors affecting the long-term patency rate in the management of insufficient hemodialytic arteriovenous fistula(AVF). Forty-nine cases of insufficient hemodialytic AVF were treated in 44 patients(native AVF:20, graft AVF:29, M:17, F:27, Age:22-70 years). In 28 thrombus patients, thrombolysis was performed with urokinase, and was followed by PTA. The initial success rate and complications of PTA were evaluated. According to the site and length of the stenosis, type and age of the AVF, the presence or abscence of thrombus, a history of diabetic mellitus, the patient's age, and the duration of renal failure, patency rates were compared within each subgroup using the Kaplan-Meier logrank test. The initial success rate of PTA for insufficient hemodialytic AVF was 88%(43/49), the patency rate of PTA was 67% at 6 months, and 50% at 12 months. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Here we report normal-state conductance measurements of three different types of superconducting tunnel junctions that are being used or proposed for quantum computing applications: p-Al/a-AlO/p-Al, e-Re/e-AlO/p-Al, and e-V/e-MgO/p-V, where p stands for polycrystalline, e for epitaxial, and a for amorphous. All three junctions exhibited significant deviations from the parabolic behavior predicted by the WKB approximation models. In the p-Al/a-AlO/p-Al junction, we observed enhancement of tunneling conductances at voltages matching harmonics of Al-O stretching modes. On the other hand, such Al-O vibration modes were missing in the epitaxial e-Re/e-AlO/p-Al junction. This suggests that absence or existence of the Al-O stretching mode might be related to the crystallinity of the AlO tunnel barrier and the interface between the electrode and the barrier. In the e-V/e-MgO/p-V junction, which is one of the candidate systems for ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Aging degradation is a phenomenon we all experience throughout life, both on a personal basis and in business. Many industries have been successful in postponing the inevitable impact on their related systems and components through programs to maintain long-term reliability, maintainability and safety. However, this has not always been the case for nuclear power. While all power plants are experiencing the world trend of increasing operating costs with age, few (if any) have been able to fully define the parameters that solve the aging equation, particularly in relation to major components. Inspection and preventive maintenance have not been effective in predicting life-limiting degradation and failure. In CANDU nuclear plants, utilities are taking a comprehensive approach in dealing with the aging problem. Programs have been established to identify the current condition and degradation mechanisms of critical components, the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The feasibility of using desferrioxamine (DF), an iron chelator, as a therapeutic agent against paraquat (PQ/sup + +/) toxicity in male Sprague-Dawley rats was explored, based on the rationale of limiting toxic hydroxyl radical production from hydrogen peroxide by removing redox-active iron. Body weights, mortality, and lung histopathology were followed for periods up to 14 days after intraperitoneal injection of PQ/sup + +/ (20 or 25 mg/kg body weight) with or without concurrent daily subcutaneous injections of DF (300 mg/day). Animals receiving PQ/sup + +/ showed the expected typical patterns of mortality and of lung histopathology, namely: marked edema, subpleural hemorrhage, acute inflammation, perivascular mononuclear cell infiltrates, sloughing of alveolar and bronchiolar lining cells, and diffuse interstitial fibrosis. Desferrioxamine alone was non-toxic. Surprisingly, results when both PQ/sup + +/ and DF were administered indicated a failure of DF to ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Chronic heart failure (HF) is a cardiovascular disease of cardinal importance because of several factors: a) an increasing occurrence due to the aging of the population, primary and secondary prevention...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Refractory ascites can occur in patients with various conditions. Although several procedures based on the reinfusion of ascitic fluid have been reported after the failure of bed rest, salt and water...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundAlthough dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a leading cause of heart failure (HF), the mechanism underlying DCM is not well understood. Previously, it has been demonstrated...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Premature menopause, ovarian failure younger than 40 years of age, is relatively rare but may preclude childbearing for some women who delay attempts at fertility. We present five kindreds in which...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

There is limited information about the true incidence of acute renal failure (ARF). Most studies could not quantify disease frequency in the general population as they are hospital-based and...Full Text Available

CERN Document Server

The periodic mode is analyzed together with two conventional boundary handling modes for particle swarm. By providing an infinite space that comprises periodic copies of original search space, it avoids possible disorganizing of particle swarm that is induced by the undesired mutations at the boundary. The results on benchmark functions show that particle swarm with periodic mode is capable of improving the search performance significantly, by compared with that of conventional modes and other algorithms.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The reliability of an electrical power system is influenced by the operation of circuit-breaker (CB). A good indicator of circuit-breaker condition is its switching time. Based on it some of the critical circuit-breaker irregularities can be detected and removed before they develop to a failure. In this paper, the evaluation of time measurements (timings) in case of different failures will be carried out for two circuit-breaker solutions, i.e. with spring and hydraulic drive. Moreover, the relationships between switching time and failure type/location will be derived. Thereby, the influence of failure trend will also be taken into account. (author)

Science.gov (United States)

... where they discussed Montgomery's failure to pursue Operation Goodwood, ... Operation Goodwood, Montgomery's 18 July attack on Caen ...

KoreaScience (Korea)

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Medline Plus

... which extend beyond the upper airway. These include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, failure to thrive, and enuresis. Tonsillectomies ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tensile specimens of the normalized and tempered fully martensitic steel DIN 1.4914 were helium implanted up to 340 appm within the temperature range 300-720/sup 0/C using a 104 MeV alpha particle beam. The high He/damage ratio of 1850 appm He/dpa allowed to determine the effect of helium on material properties. After irradiation tensile strength and ductility were investigated mainly at test temperatures equal to the irradiation temperatures. While short time irradiations with helium contents up to 100 appm have shown no visible effect on the tensile behaviour at all temperatures investigated, long time irradiations reduced the material strength at irradiation temperatures above about 440/sup 0/C. This irradiation induced softening obscured the predicted minor hardening effect of the observed He-bubbles completely and increases with irradiation time and temperature. The fracture mode of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The onset of double-diffusive convection in a couple-stress fluid-saturated horizontal porous layer is studied using linear and weak nonlinear stability analyses. The modified Darcy equation that includes the time derivative term and the inertia term is used to model the momentum equation. The expressions for stationary, oscillatory and finite-amplitude Rayleigh number are obtained as a function of the governing parameters. The effect of couple-stress parameter, solute Rayleigh number, Vadasz number and diffusivity ratio on stationary, oscillatory and finite-amplitude convection is shown graphically. It is found that the couple-stress parameter and the solute Rayleigh number have a stabilizing effect on stationary, oscillatory and finite-amplitude convection. The diffusivity ratio has a destabilizing effect in the case of stationary and finite-amplitude modes, with a dual effect in ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Stability concerns of the Par Pond Dam, an embankment structure in the Savannah River Site complex, resulted in a comprehensive evaluation of the state of its integrity. Specifically, excessive seepage through the embankment, slope failure due to an earthquake event as well as liquefaction potential of the embankment and the foundation are addressed and the potential of failure is evaluated. Lastly, remedial benefits of the addition of a berm structure are also assessed.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

AimsThe prevalence and importance of liver function test (LFT) abnormalities in a large contemporary cohort of heart failure patients have not been systematically evaluated.Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Project management mode plays a key role in project construction, especially in nuclear power field. From the aspects of right, responsibility and benefit, this paper discussed the differences among the common used project management modes. Also the main kinds of the construction management modes used in China's nuclear power plants were summarized. At last, considering the experience of Ningde nuclear power plant, this paper put forward several perspectives about the selection of project management mode in nuclear power plant construction. (authors)

Science.gov (United States)

This report presents the operating results for Run 243 at the Advanced Coal Liquefaction R and D Facility in Wilsonville, Alabama. This run was made in an Integrated Two-Stage Liquefaction (ITSL) mode using Illinois 6 coal from the Burning Star mine. The primary objective was to demonstrate the effect of a dissolver on the ITSL product slate, especially on the net C/sub 1/-C/sub 5/ gas production and hydrogen consumption. Run 243 began on 3 February 1983 and continued through 28 June 1983. During this period, 349.8 tons of coal was fed in 2947 hours of operation. Thirteen special product workup material balances were defined, and the results are presented herein. 29 figures, 19 tables.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Strong coupled organic-inorganic microcavities device has been realized and studied. One of the two cavities contains an organic thin film of tetrakis(4-methoxyphenyl)porphyrin, whereas the other microcavity is a dielectric structure coupled to the organic one by means of a LiF/ZnS Bragg mirror. Reflectivity spectra show the presence of two well defined cavity dips. We observe an energy splitting of the two cavity-modes. Despite only one cavity contains the active layer, the photoluminescence spectra display two peaks at the same energy of the reflectivity dips. These observations indicate the strong coupling of the two cavities. The comparison of the diagonalized effective Hamiltonian with the observed resonances further confirms the strong coupling.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

This experimental study investigates the effectiveness of crossed inclined bars (X-bars) as joint shear reinforcement in exterior reinforced concrete beam-column connections under cyclic deformations. Test results of 20 joint subassemblages with various reinforcement ratios and arrangements including X-bars in the joint area are presented. The X-type, non-conventional reinforcement is examined as the only joint reinforcement and in combination with common stirrups or vertical bars. The experimental results reported herein include full loading cycle curves, energy dissipation values and a categorization of the observed damage modes. Based on the comparisons between the overall hysteretic responses of the tested specimens, it is deduced that joints with X-bars exhibited enhanced cyclic perfo...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The major bottleneck for popularization and utilization of the conventional mechanical valve pulse combustors is the self-priming mode of gas supply. An aerodynamic valve (as against mechanical valve) self-excited pulse combustor of the Helmholtz-type with continuous supply of gas and air was designed and a mathematical model was established in this paper. The theoretical model employed well-stirred reactor model and a single step Arrhenius chemistry, and took those factors which might affect the combustion stability into account. The factors include the variation of the mass rate of the reactants affected by the pressure in the combustion chamber, the convective and radiation heat loss in the combustion chamber, and the heat transfer and wall friction in the tailpipe. The effect of wall t...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this study structural and magnetic character of the expanded austenite phase (gN) layer formed on a medical grade CoCrMo alloy by a low-pressure Radio-Frequency plasma nitriding process was investigated. The formation of the expanded austenite phase is facilitated at a substrate temperature near 400^oC for 1, 2, 4, 6 and 20h under a gas mixture of 60% N2-40% H2. The magnetic state of the gN layers was determined by a surface sensitive technique, magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE), and with a scanning probe microscope in magnetic force mode (MFM). Strong evidence for the ferromagnetic nature of the gN-(Co,Cr,Mo) phase is provided by the observation of stripe domain structures and the hysteresis loops. The ferromagnetic state for the gN phase observed here is mainly linked to large lattice ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This experimental research investigates mixed convection and heat transfer augmentation by gaseous forced jets in a large enclosure, at conditions simulating those of passive containment cooling systems for Gen III+ passively safe reactors. The experiment is designed to measure the key parameters governing heat transfer augmentation by forced jets, and to investigate the effects of geometric factors, including the jet diameter, jet injection orientation, interior structures, and enclosure aspect ratio. The tests cover a variety of injection modes leading to flow configurations of interest for mixing and stratification phenomena in containments under accident conditions. Correlations for heat transfer augmentation by forced jets are developed and compared with experimental data. The characteristic recirculation speed inside the enclosure is introduced and analyzed. Steady stratified temperature distributions are compared with model simulations ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We report first-principles frozen-phonon calculations for the determination of the force-free geometry and the dynamical matrix of the five Raman-active A_1_g modes in YBa_2Cu_3O_7. To establish the shape of the phonon potentials atomic forces are calculated within the linearized-augmented-plane-wave method. Two different schemes emdash the local-density approximation (LDA) and a generalized gradient approximation (GGA)emdash are employed for the treatment of electronic exchange and correlation effects. We find that in the case of LDA the resulting phonon frequencies show a deviation from experimental values of approximately -10%. Invoking GGA the frequency values are significantly improved and also the eigenvectors are in very good agreement with experimental findings. copyright 1997 The American Physical Society.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

As a general approach to the problem of precursive behavior in alloys that undergo a displacive transformation, defect theories are becoming increasingly popular. However, the microscopic origin of the proposed defects is usually not considered. Yu and Anderson (1984) have argued that properties of strong-coupling superconductors, such as the A-15 compounds, imply a breakdown of Migdal's theorem (the adiabatic, or Born-Oppenheimer approximation for separation of electrons and phonons) in these systems. The electron-phonon coupling is so strong that it must be incorporated already in zeroth order. This is the basis for local phonon models, in which the electron-phonon coupling provides an effective double well potential for a localized group of atoms. The Yu-Anderson model and an analogous local Jahn-Teller model (Abell, 1983) are reviewed in connection with displacive transformations in strong-coupling alloys.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Australian electricity markets and natural gas markets are undergoing rapid reform. Choosing among electricity generation modes is a key issue. Such choices are affected by expectations about the future structure of these markets and future technologies, and how they affect costs and emissions. In the research reported in this paper, the MARKAL model of the Australian energy system is used to evaluate the competitive position of natural gas fired combined cycle gas turbines (CCGTs) in the energy sector as a whole. Competing in the sector are large-scale electricity generation technologies such as refurbished existing coal fired stations and advanced forms of coal fired generation. The modelling incorporates new data on electricity supply technologies and options.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract In this research, the efficiency of electrocoagulation treatment process using aluminum electrodes to treat synthetic wastewater containing Reactive Red198 (RR198) was studied. The effects of parameters such as voltage, time of reaction, electrode connection mode, initial dye concentration, electrolyte concentration, and inter electrode distance on dye removal efficiency were investigated. In addition, electrical energy consumption, electrode consumption, and operating cost at optimum condition have been investigated. The results showed that dye and chemical oxygen demand removals were 98.6 and 84%, respectively. Electrode consumption, energy consumption and operating cost were 0.052-kg/m3, 1.303-kWh/m3 and 0.256-US$/m3, respectively. Dye removal kinetic followed first order kinet...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Among pharmaceuticals and personal care products released into the aquatic environment, antibiotics are of particular concern, because of their ubiquity and health effects. Although scientists have recently paid more attention to the threat of antibiotics to coastal ecosystems, researchers have often focused on relatively few antibiotics, because of the absence of suitable analytical methods. We have therefore developed a method for the rapid detection of 36 antibiotic residues in coastal waters, including tetracyclines (TCs), sulfanilamides (SAs), and quinolones (QLs). The method consists of solid-phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, using electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive mode. The SPE was performed with Oasis HLB and Oasi...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

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

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Potential of spent biomass of a cyanobacterium, Nostoc linckia HA 46, from a hydrogen bioreactor was studied for biosorption of a textile dye, reactive red 198. The waste biomass was immobilized in calcium alginate and used for biosorption of the dye from aqueous solution using response surface methodology (RSM). Kinetics of the dye in aqueous solution was studied in batch mode. Interactive effects of initial dye concentration (100-500mg/L), pH (2-6) and temperature (25-45^oC) on dye removal were examined using Box-Behnken design. Maximum adsorption capacity of the immobilized biomass was 93.5mg/g at pH 2.0, initial concentration of 100mg/L and 35^oC temperature, when 94% of the dye was removed. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) studies revealed that biosorption was mainly mediated by fun...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

During rolling contact fatigue of the inner rings of ball bearings three stages of material response can be distinguished, in terms of the volume that is plastically deformed upon overrolling. After a first stage of material strengthening during which a decrease occurs for the volume that is deformed plastically, an effectively stationary, second stage is entered which is eventually succeeded by a third stage exhibiting a pronounced increase of the volume that is deformed plastically upon overrolling, which leads to failure. It is suggested that carbon diffusion induced by local temperature peaks occurring at the moment of overrolling is the key mechanism leading to fatigue damage. The amount of decomposed retained austenite is a useful, practical parameter to assess fatigue life. It is shown that published ideas about the role of certain components of residual stress in enhancing fatigue life are not correct and that the so-called ...