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The oxygen production of a photosynthetic gas exchanger containing Chlorella pyrenoidosa (1% packed cell volume) was measured when various concentrations of carbon dioxide were present...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The natural gas industry has proposed an increase in the DOE gas R&D budget from about $100 million to about $250 million per year for each of the next 10 years. The proposal includes four programs: natural gas supplies, fuel cells, natural gas vehicles and stationary combustion systems. This paper is a qualitative assessment of the gas industry proposal and recommends a natural gas R&D strategy for the DOE. The methodology is a conceptual framework based on an analysis of market failures and the energy policy objectives of the DOE`s (1991) National Energy Strategy. This framework would assist the DOE in constructing an R&D portfolio that achieves energy policy objectives. The natural gas supply program is recommended to the extent that it contributes to energy price stability. Stationary combustion programs ...

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The corrosion behavior of 304 stainless steel was characterized with cyclic voltammetry in a eutectic Li/K and Li/Na carbonate melt under anode and cathode gas of the molten-carbonate fuel cell (MCFC). The corrosion rate of 304 steel was determined in four different environments of the MCFC with electrochemical methods and from cross-sectional analysis of corrosion layers. These four environments were open-circuit and MCFC-load conditions both under anode and cathode gas. At open-circuit conditions corrosion was more severe under the oxidizing cathode gas then under the reducing anode gas. On the contrary, at load conditions corrosion was more severe under anode than under cathode gas. The anodic polarization under anode gas enhances corrosion, whereas the high anodic polarization under cathode gas leads to anodic ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The coal-derived gas from a coal gasifier contains multiple contaminants, and their synergistic effects may not be simply the additive influences of individual contaminants. The present work presents the results of a study of the synergistic effects of four contaminants of major concern-S, As, P, and Cl, at the ppm level and in combinations of two, three, or four kinds-on the performance of Ni-YSZ/YSZ/LSM solid oxide fuel cells. The results indicate that both cell performance and morphology differ significantly in cells exposed to a single contaminant, and that cell performance is not simply the additive influence of each contaminant. Synergistic effects can be very destructive (accelerated degradation or even cell failure) when S is in the presence with As/P, but can also be beneficial (s...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

On the 15th of June 2006 the PAMELA experiment, mounted on the Resurs DK1 satellite, was launched from the Baikonur cosmodrome and it has been collecting data since July 2006. PAMELA is a satellite-borne apparatus designed to study charged particles in the cosmic radiation, to investigate the nature of dark matter, measuring the cosmic-ray antiproton and positron spectra over the largest energy range ever achieved, and to search for antinuclei with unprecedented sensitivity. The apparatus comprises a time-of-flight system, a silicon-microstrip magnetic spectrometer, a silicon-tungsten electromagnetic calorimeter, an anticoincidence system, a shower tail catcher scintillator and a neutron detector. The combination of these devices allows charged particle identification over a wide energy range.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) technology the reducing of volume and mass of the fuel cell stack and the improvement of catalyst utilization are of great interest. These parameters affect applicability and system cost. In this work we present an alternative way for reducing the stack volume by combining gas distribution and catalytic active area in one plate. Micro machined glassy carbon electrodes serve as support material for the platinum catalyst, as well as gas distributor at the same time. A comparison of these electrodes with conventional platinum-black gas diffusion electrodes under fuel cell conditions shows that the new system is a promising electrode type for enhanced power density and catalyst utilization. (author) 3 figs., 5 refs.

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In our previous work, we demonstrated that biomass-generated producer gas can be converted to ethanol and acetic acid using a microbial catalyst Clostridium carboxidivorans P7{sup T}. Results showed that the producer gas (1) induced cell dormancy, (2) inhibited H{sub 2} consumption, and (3) affected the acetic acid/ethanol product distribution. Results of this work showed that tars were the likely cause of cell dormancy and product redistribution and that the addition of a 0.025{mu}m filter in the gas cleanup negated the effects of tars. C. carboxidivorans P7{sup T} can adapt to the tars (i.e. grow) only after prolonged exposure. Nitric oxide, present in the producer gas at 150ppm, is an inhibitor of the hydrogenase enzyme involved in H{sub 2} consumption. We conclude that significant conditioning of the producer gas will be required for the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Electricity generation from natural gas in gas turbine units can be made substantially more efficient by preliminary methane conversion to a synthesis gas containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide and/or by the use of some of the synthesis gas produced in industry. An alternative improvement involves the introduction of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and the use of the synthesis gas in them. In this study, a modified scheme of gas turbine cycle that includes an SOFC, a membrane reactor (instead of a traditional combustion chamber), and a catalytic reactor to perform methane conversion to produce hydrogen (synthesis gas) is proposed. Variations of the energy and exergy efficiencies of the integrated system with operating conditions are provided, showing, for example, that SOFC efficiency is enhanced if the fuel ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Thermal (gas) nitridation of stainless steel alloys can yield low interfacial contact resistance (ICR), electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant nitride containing surface layers (Cr2N, CrN, TiN, V2N, VN, etc.) of interest for fuel cells, batteries, and sensors. This paper presents results of proton exchange membrane (PEM) single-cell fuel cell studies of stamped and pre-oxidized/nitrided developmental Fe-20Cr-4V weight percent (wt.%) and commercial type 2205 stainless steel alloy foils. The single-cell fuel cell behavior of the stamped and pre-oxidized/nitrided material was compared to as-stamped (no surface treatment) 904L, 2205, and Fe-20Cr-4V stainless steel alloy foils and machined graphite of similar flow field design. The best fuel cell behavior among the alloys was exhibited...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: Chemical-technology approaches allowing to intensification the prevention processes of gas hydrates formation at motion of gas-liquid stream of natural gas in system natural gas well - gas wire have been worked up. Technological regimes of treatment of gas stream have been determined. Linear correlation dependences inhibitor electrolytes contained hydrated ions with different ion radii and charges of subgroups of alkali elements with one - type electron configuration were obtained. Important physico-chemical parameters of electrolytes have been determined: activity; coefficients of activity, viscosity, diffusion; density; heat capacity; heat conductivity; surface tension and freezing-point. The features of continuous influence of inhibitory factors on process of gas flow at low temperatures and relatively high pressure differences ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

For optimal performances, proton exchange membrane fuel cells require fine water and thermal management. Accurate modelling of the physical phenomena occurring in the fuel cell is a key issue to improve fuel cell technology. Here, an analytic steady state diphasic 2D model of heat and mass transfer is presented. Through this model, the aim of this work is to study the influence of local events on the global performances of a fuel cell. A part of the complete model is a microscopic representation of the coupling between water transport and charge transfers in the electrodes. The thickness of the liquid layer around the reactive agglomerates is deduced from the saturation. The evolution of the quantity of water within the catalyst layer is monitored and its influence on the global performanc...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The conductivity of the membrane is a limiting factor for the efficiency and power density of PEFCs. Because this conductivity is strongly dependent on the membrane hydration, water management is an important aspect of PEFC optimisation. Single cell model experiments were made in order to determine the in-plane hydration of a Nafion{sup R} membrane under fuel cell conditions as function of the gas humidities. (author) 4 fig., 3 refs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Geologically estimated natural gas resources are 500 Tcm. With the advance in geological science increase of estimated resources is expected. Natural gas reserves in 2000 have been proved to be around 165 Tcm. As it is known the reserves are subject to two constraints, namely: capital invested in the exploration and drilling technologies used to discover new reserves. The natural gas scarcity factor, i.e. ratio between available reserves and natural gas consumption, is around 300 years for the last 50 years. The new discovery of natural gas reserves has given rise to a new energy strategy based on natural gas. Natural gas utilization is constantly increasing in the last 50 years. With new technologies for deep drilling, we have come to know that there are enormous gas resources available at relatively low price. These ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this study, the effects of channel surface wettability, cross-sectional geometry and orientation on the two-phase flow in parallel gas channels of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are investigated. Ex situ experiments were conducted in flow channels with three different surface wettability (hydrophilically coated, uncoated, and hydrophobically coated), three cross-sectional geometries (rectangular, sinusoidal and trapezoidal), and two orientations (vertical and horizontal). Flow pattern map, individual channel flow variation due to maldistribution, pressure drop and flow visualization images were used to analyze the two-phase flow characteristics. It is found that hydrophilically coated gas channels are advantageous over uncoated or slightly hydrophobic channels regarding un...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report for the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) presents the overview reports made by SFOE Heads of Program on work done in 2007. Projects reported on in the natural gas-fired fuel cell area include the EU-project REAL-SFOC, the long-term testing of anode-supported SOFC stacks, intermediate-temperature fuel cells based on proton conducting electrolytes, the interdisciplinary ONEBAT project and lifetime-enhancement of SOFC stacks for CHP applications. In the polymer-electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) area, projects concerning proton-conducting polymer membranes, factors limiting the lifetime of fuel cell membranes, a new highly active oxygen reduction electrode for PEM fuel cell and zinc/air battery applications, the enhancement of PEFC durability and reliability, model-based investigation of PEFC performance, and local gas analysis of PE ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the Institute for Atomic Energy, Rikkyo University, just after the TRIGA-2 research reactor of 100 kW has attained the criticality, the cylindrical box for neutron radiography (NR) irradiation was made in the attached pool, and the research on NR was started in 1961. Thereafter in 1985, the vertical irradiation pipe was installed in the reactor tank, and the experiment for collecting the basic data was begun. In 1986, based on the obtained data, the NR irradiation facility on full scale was installed in No. 2 tangential horizontal experimental hole. As the main NR irradiation facilities, the vertical neutron irradiation pipe, the use of which is stopped now, the NR facility using the horizontal experimental hole (RUR/N2), the irradiation facility and ancillary facilities such as beam shutter, beam catcher and hoist are described. As the main equipments for NR, the imaging apparatuses of cooled type CCD, SIT and superhigh sensitivity, the image processors of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This patent describes in an dual gas-liquid fuel four cycle engine having cylinders and wherein each cylinder is operatively connected thereto and each cylinder has a piston, two inlet valves, two exhaust valves and a first liquid fuel injector. It comprises: at least one fuel torch cell operatively connected to at least one cylinder, the torch cell having a torch cell nozzle at one end thereof and the other end having appropriate means to connect the torch cell to a fuel supply, a second fuel injector mounted in the torch cell at a predetermined angle to an axis of the torch cell, the torch cell defining an auto-ignition chamber, the second fuel injector being in operative communication with the auto-ignition chamber by an injector nozzle passageway, the injector nozzle passageway entering the auto-ignition chamber at a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To address lithium-ion cell safety issues in demanding power applications, electrical and thermal abuse tests were performed on 18650 sized cells. Video and electrically monitored abuse tests in air included short circuit, forced overcharge, forced reversal, and controlled overheating (thermal) modes. Controlled overheating tests to 200 C were performed in a sealed chamber under a helium atmosphere and the gases released from the cell during thermal runaway were analyzed at regular intervals using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. In addition to alkane and alkene solvent breakdown fragments, significant H{sub 2} was detected and evidence that HF was evolved was also found.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A methane catalytic decomposition reactor-direct carbon fuel cell-internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell (MCDR-DCFC-IRSOFC) energy system is highly efficient for converting the chemical energy of methane into electrical energy. A gas turbine cycle is also used to output more power from the thermal energy generated in the IRSOFC. In part I of this work, models of the fuel cells and the system are proposed and validated. In this part, exergy conservation analysis is carried out based on the developed electrochemical and thermodynamic models. The ratio of the exergy destruction of each unit is examined. The results show that the electrical exergy efficiency of 68.24% is achieved with the system. The possibility of further recovery of the waste heat is discussed and the combined power-heat e...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The present paper concerns the development of a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells model in order to analyse the behaviour of the cell varying its operating parameters such as temperature (70-120 ^oC), pressure (1-3 atm), relative humidity (35-100%) and CO content (0-200 ppm) in the feeding gas. The voltage output and the relative current of a generic PEM fuel cell has been predicted through a mathematical method based on semi-empirical correlations derived from the experimental data available in literature. The model has been implemented in a commercial process simulator (AspenPlus) and it has been validated by comparing the obtained results with further experimental data (not utilized for the model development). The comparison has underlined a good agreement with the experimen...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thermal (gas) nitridation of stainless steel alloys can yield low interfacial contact resistance (ICR), electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant nitride containing surface layers (Cr{sub 2}N, CrN, TiN, V{sub 2}N, VN, etc.) of interest for fuel cells, batteries, and sensors. This paper presents results of proton exchange membrane (PEM) single-cell fuel cell studies of stamped and pre-oxidized/nitrided developmental Fe-20Cr-4V weight percent (wt.%) and commercial type 2205 stainless steel alloy foils. The single-cell fuel cell behavior of the stamped and pre-oxidized/nitrided material was compared to as-stamped (no surface treatment) 904L, 2205, and Fe-20Cr-4V stainless steel alloy foils and machined graphite of similar flow field design. The best fuel cell behavior among the alloys was exhibited by the pre-oxidized/nitrided Fe-20Cr-4V, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Uranium enrichment by gas centrifugation relies on the pressure diffusion of the isotopes when their gaseous mixture is submitted to the pressure diffusion in the strong radial pressure gradient due to the centrifugal force in a very rapidly rotating cylinder. To compute the isotope separation in a gas centrifuge, the viscous compressible Navier-Stokes equations are solved for the mixture, then the diffusion equations are solved for the isotopes. As far as the separation performance is concerned, the models deal with the steady state of the axi-symmetric gas motion in the rotating cylinder. The numerical tools are briefly presented: first, the MOLINA code which numerically solves the axi-symmetric gas motion in the specific conditions of rapid rotation by use of a change of variables suited to the high density gradient and by use of a Marker And Cell method; then, the diffusion ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An advanced process for the separation of hydrogen sulfide (H{sub 2}S) from coal gasification product streams through an electrochemical membrane is being developed. H{sub 2}S is removed from the syn-gas stream, split into hydrogen, which enriches the exiting syn-gas, and sulfur, which is condensed from an inert sweep gas stream. The process allows removal of H{sub 2}S without cooling the gas stream and with negligible pressure loss through the separator. The process is made economically attractive by the lack of need for a Claus process for sulfur recovery. Membrane manufacturing coupled with full-cell experimentation was the primary focus this quarter. A tape-casted zirconia membrane was developed and utilized in one full-cell experiment (run 25); run 24 utilized a fabricated membrane purchased from Zircar Corporation. Results are discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: The surface properties of poly (tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) are changed by the exposure to synchrotron radiation (SR). We succeeded in controlling the wettability of the PTFE surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic by varying the substrate temperature during the SR irradiation and found that the wettability was ascribable to microstructure and chemical composition of surface.In these previous works, oxygen atoms were found to inhabit on the hydrophobic surface of PTFE. In this study, we investigated the surface modification of PTFE from the SR exposure experiment under the O_2 gas atmosphere. The SR exposure to the PTFE sheet was carried out at beamline 6 (BL6) of the New- SUBARU. The PTFE sheet was irradiated to the white beam, ranging 50-1000 eV at BL6 at room temperature. The gas cell was mounted at the irradiation chamber. The O_2 gas pressure in the gas ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

This work deals with a new route to modify polymer blend morphology in order to improve the porosity of gas diffusion layers (GDLs) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). First, electrically conductive polymer-based blends were carefully formulated using a twin-screw extrusion process. Blend electrical conductivity was ensured by the addition of high specific surface area carbon black and synthetic graphite flakes. Final GDL porosity, in particular its macroporosity, was generated by melt blending polyamide 11 (PA11) matrix with polystyrene (PS) followed by PS extraction with tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent at room temperature. In order to improve GDL porosity by the optimisation of PS dispersion in the PA11 matrix, PA11/PS blends were compatibilised by the addition of 2 wt.-% of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Coal may be used to generate electrical energy by any of several processes, most of which involve combustion or gasification. Combustion in a coal-fired boiler and power generation using a steam- cycle is the conventional conversion method; however, total energy conversion efficiencies for this type of process are only slightly over 30{percent}. Integration of a gas-cycle in the process (combined cycle) may increase the total conversion efficiency to 40{percent}. Conversion processes based on gasification offer efficiencies above 50{percent}. H{sub 2}S is the predominant gaseous contaminant in raw coal gas. Problems arise due to the corrosive nature of H{sub 2}S on metal components contained in these cycles. Because of this, H{sub 2}S concentrations must be reduced to low levels corresponding to certain power applications. An advanced process for the separation of hydrogen sulfide (H{sub 2}S) from coal gasification product streams through an ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hydrogen piston engines can be simultaneously optimized for improved thermal efficiency and for extremely low emissions. Using these engines in constant-speed, constant-load systems such as series hybrid-electric automobiles or home cogeneration systems can result in significantly improved energy efficiency. For the same electrical energy produced, the emissions from such engines can be comparable to those from natural gas-fired steam power plants. These hydrogen-fueled high-efficiency, low-emission (HELE) engines are a mechanical equivalent of hydrogen fuel cells. HELE engines could facilitate the transition to a hydrogen fuel cell economy using near-term technology.

CERN Document Server

Computing with cells

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This study provides an analysis of potential changes that may take place in a Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) Project disposal cell cover system as a result of plant biointrusion. Potential changes are evaluated by performing a sensitivity analysis of the relative impact of root penetrations on radon flux out of the cell cover and/or water infiltration into the cell cover. Data used in this analysis consist of existing information on vegetation growth on selected cell cover systems and information available from published studies and/or other available project research. Consistent with the scope of this paper, no new site-specific data were collected from UMTRA Project sites. Further, this paper does not focus on the issue of plant transport of radon gas or other contaminants out of the disposal cell cover though it is acknowledged that such ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) need long-lived high-power batteries as energy storage devices. Batteries based on lithium-ion technology can meet the high-power goals but have been unable to meet HEV calendar-life requirements. As part of the US Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Development (ATD) Program, diagnostic studies are being conducted on 18650-type lithium-ion cells that were subjected to accelerated aging tests at temperatures ranging from 40 to 70 C. This article summarizes data obtained by gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, electron microscopy, X-ray spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques, and identifies cell components that are responsible for the observed impedance rise and power fade.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A small fleet of classic London Taxis (Black cabs) equipped with hydrogen fuel cell power systems is being prepared for demonstration during the 2012 London Olympics. This paper presents a Life Cycle Analysis for these vehicles in terms of energy consumption and CO2 emissions, focusing on the impacts of alternative vehicle technologies for the Taxi, combining the fuel life cycle (Tank-to-Wheel and Well-to-Tank) and vehicle materials Cradle-to-Grave. An internal combustion engine diesel taxi was used as the reference vehicle for the currently available technology. This is compared to battery and fuel cell vehicle configurations. Accordingly, the following energy pathways are compared: diesel, electricity and hydrogen (derived from natural gas steam reforming). Full Life Cycle Analysis, usin...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The BEATRIX-II irradiation experiment is an in-situ tritium release experiment being carried out in the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) reactor to evaluate the tritium release characteristics of fusion solid breeder materials. A sophisticated tritium gas handling system has been developed to continuously monitor the tritium recovery from the specimens and facilitate tritium removal from the experiment's sweep gas flow stream. The in-situ recovery experiment accommodates two different in-reactor specimen canisters with individual gas streams and temperature monitoring/control. Ionization chambers have been specifically designed to respond to the rapid changes in the tritium release rate at the anticipated tritium concentrations. Two ceramic electrolysis cells have proved effective in reducing the moisture in the gas streams to hydrogen/tritium. A tritium getter system, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The petroleum and petroleum products increase offer a real development opportunity to the alternative fuels. In the context of the french energy accounting increase, the energy independence notion incites the government to promote these new fuels. If the LPG seems declining because of the accident risks fear, the fuel cell is not for today. Near these two sectors what is the future of the biofuels and the natural gas vehicle or the electric cars? (A.L.B.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report forms part of a joint study on a PEFC propulsion system for surface ships, summarized in a presentation to this Seminar, entitled {open_quotes}Study on a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) Propulsion System for Surface Ships{close_quotes}, and which envisages application to a 1,500 DWT cargo vessel. The aspect treated here concerns an experiment in reducing by methanation to a level below 10 ppm the CO that is contained to around 1% in reformate gas.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A lightweight, low permeability liner for graphite epoxy composite compressed gas storage vessels. The liner is composed of polymers that may or may not be coated with a thin layer of a low permeability material, such as silver, gold, or aluminum, deposited on a thin polymeric layer or substrate which is formed into a closed bladder using torispherical or near torispherical end caps, with or without bosses therein, about which a high strength to weight material, such as graphite epoxy composite shell, is formed to withstand the storage pressure forces. The polymeric substrate may be laminated on one or both sides with additional layers of polymeric film. The liner may be formed to a desired configuration using a dissolvable mandrel or by inflation techniques and the edges of the film seamed by heat sealing. The liner may be utilized in most any type of gas storage system, and is particularly applicable for hydrogen, gas ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The numerous challenges facing the North American electric utility industry were discussed. In addition to competition, electric utilities are faced with low demand growth, public pressure to avoid adding transmission and distribution capacity, and strict environmental requirements. In view of these developments, large central generation additions that have been industry norm until recently, do not always make economic sense in the current environment. Instead, smaller, distributed additions to generating capacity is becoming the new norm. Small-scale on-site generating capacity has the added advantage of reducing the need for expensive high-voltage transmission lines. The Ballard generation system described here is a modular, efficient fuel cell-based solution to implementing distributed power concepts. The system is natural gas fueled, with low noise, vibration and emissions. Apart from its other advantages, it provides ideal convergence ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

It has been understood that production of hydrogen from fossil and carbonaceous fuels with reduced CO{sub 2} emission to the atmosphere is key to the production of hydrogen-rich fuels for mitigating the CO{sub 2} greenhouse gas climate change problem. The conventional methods of hydrogen production from fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas and biomass) include steam reforming and water gas shift mainly of natural gas (SRM). In order to suppress CO{sub 2} emission from the steam reforming process, CO{sub 2} must be concentrated and sequestered either in or under the ocean or underground (in aquifers, or depleted oil or gas wells). Up to about 40% of the energy is lost in this process. An alternative process is the pyrolysis or the thermal decomposition of methane, natural gas (TDM) to hydrogen and carbon. The carbon can either be sequestered or sold on the market as a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An investigation was conducted into alternative techniques for zinc and electrolyte regeneration and reuse in the refuelable zinc/air battery that was developed by LLNL and previously tested on a moving electric bus using cut wire. Mossy zinc was electrodeposited onto a bipolar array of inclined Ni plates with an energy consumption of 1.8 kWh/kg. Using a H{sub 2}-depolarized anode, zinc was deposited at 0.6 V (0.8 kA/m{sup 2}); the open circuit voltage was 0.45 V. Three types of fuel pellets were tested and compared with results for 0.75 mm cut wire: spheres produced in a spouted bed (UCB); coarse powder produced by gas-atomization (Noranda); and irregular pellets produced by chopping 1-mm plates of compacted zinc fines (Eagle-Picher, Inc.). All three types transported within the cell. The coarse powder fed continuously from hopper to cell, as did the compacted pellets (< 0.83 mm). Large particles (> 0.83 mm; ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the hypothetical event of a severe accident in a Light Water Reactor, scenarios in which the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) fails and the core melt mixture (called corium) relocates into the reactor cavity, cannot be excluded. The viscosity (in fact, corium rheological behaviour) plays a major role in many phenomena such as core melt down, discharge from reactor pressure vessel, interaction with structural materials (concrete,...) and spreading in a core-catcher. For these reasons, it is important to be able to predict the rheological behaviour of corium melts of different compositions (essentially based on UO{sub 2}, ZrO{sub 2}, Fe{sub x}O{sub y} and Fe for in-vessel scenarios, plus SiO{sub 2} and CaO for ex-vessel scenarios) at temperatures above solidus temperature. In the case of corium-concrete mixtures, the increase of viscosity depends not only on the increase of particles in the melts but also on the increase of the residual liquid phase viscosity (due to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A highly efficient integrated energy conversion system is built based on a methane catalytic decomposition reactor (MCDR) together with a direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) and an internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell (IRSOFC). In the MCDR, methane is decomposed to pure carbon and hydrogen. Carbon is used as the fuel of DCFC to generate power and produce pure carbon dioxide. The hydrogen and unconverted methane are used as the fuel in the IRSOFC. A gas turbine cycle is also used to produce more power output from the thermal energy generated in the IRSOFC. The output performance and efficiency of both the DCFC and IRSOFC are investigated and compared by development of exact models of them. It is found that this system has a unique loading flexibility due to the good high-loading property of DCFC and the good low loading property of IRSOFC. The effects of temperature, pressure, current densities, and methane conversion on the ...

Science.gov (United States)

Measurements of PEM fuel cell device performance were made with different gas inlet temperatures and relative humidity using a newly-designed test fixture. Significant improvement in device performance was observed when the fuel inlet temperature was increased above the operating temperature of the cell. These measurements were then correlated to a model to describe energy and mass transport processes. Proton exchange membrane (PEM), fuel cells--the focus of this study--use an ion conducting polymer, especially polyperfluorosulfonic acid materials. These polymer materials, when imbibed with water, exhibit solution-like properties, but because the anions are chemically bound to the polymeric structure, the electrolyte is contained. Importantly, product water removal is simplified, as electrolyte dilution is not a concern. However, the proton transport rate is a function of the polymer geometry, which is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The conversion of off-peak surplus electricity into peak electricity through an electrolyzer, hydrogen storage, and fuel cell energy storage system was discussed. Development efforts in high pressure alkaline electrolysis and Proton-Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells have improved the near-term viability of these systems. Potential use of wind turbines and other renewable energy-based generation systems, through hydrogen-based energy storage, were discussed as a new supply of surplus electricity. An integrated set of nomographs were presented for providing quick estimates of peak electricity costs derived from an electrolyzer/hydrogen fuel cell system. The nomographs allowed first order cost comparisons of centralized versus distributed hydrogen energy systems considering trade-offs between production economies of scale and hydrogen storage and transport costs. Use of the nomographs to compare centralized and dispersed ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reactive Magnetron Sputtering is a complex process and huge efforts are made addressing the understanding of its fundamental phenomena and the simulation of the deposition process by e.g. Particle in Cell/Monte Carlo (PIC/MC). One of the most uncertain parameters in this reactive sputtering process is the incorporation coefficient of the reactive gas in the growing layer, i.e. the real-time sticking coefficient during deposition. In this work, mass spectrometry is used to deliver more insights on this complex matter. Earlier, a method was developed to determine the incorporation coefficient of the reactive gas molecules in the growing metal film, using mass spectrometry combined with thin film analysis techniques (electron probe microanalysis and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy). This method delivers a global, realistic incorporation coefficient which can be used in models for the reactive sputtering process. In this work, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Science.gov (United States)

The growth of an oxide interfacial layer was recently found to increase the open-circuit voltage (OCV) and efficiency by up to 60 per cent in GaAs metal-semiconductor solar cells. Details of oxidation techniques to provide the necessary oxide thickness and chemical structure and using ozone, water-vapor-saturated oxygen, or oxygen gas discharges are described, as well as apparent crystallographic orientation effects. Preliminary results of the oxide chemistry obtained from X-ray, photoelectron spectroscopy are given. Ratios of arsenic oxide to gallium oxide of unity or less seem to be preferable. Samples with the highest OVC predominantly have As(+3) in the arsenic oxide rather than As(+5). A major difficulty at this time is a reduction in OCV by 100-200 mV when the antireflection coating is vacuum deposited.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Since 1999, several studies on nuclear fuels were realised in C11/C12 Atalante Hot Cell. This paper presents firstly an overview of the apparatus used for fuel dissolution and characterisation like reactor design, gas trapping flask and solid/liquid separation. Then, the general methodology is described as a function of fuel, temperature, reagents, showing for each step, the reachable experimental data: Dissolution rate, chemical and radiochemical fuel composition including volatile LLRN, insoluble mass, composition, morphology, cladding chemical, radiochemical and physical characterisation using SIMS (made in Cadarache/LECA facilities), MEB. To conclude, some of the obtained results on 129I and 14C composition of oxide fuels, rate of dissolution and first results on dissolution studies of RERTR UMo fuel will be detailed. (Author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this work, a three-dimensional multiphase non-isothermal model incorporated with a capillary-extended sub-model in gas channels is used to investigate the coupled phenomena of water and thermal transport in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Distributions of water and temperature along the flow path in the channel are highlighted and the pros and cons of various operating temperatures are elaborated. In addition, this work also sheds light on the impacts of temperature variations of bipolar plates induced by non-uniform cooling conditions, which have been overlooked by most previous works. An important phenomenon of water distribution, dry-out at inlets and flooding at outlets (DIFO), is observed and this non-uniform distribution is revealed to be greatly influenced by the operating t...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Heavily doped emitters with low saturation current density are of particular interest for selective emitter solar cells. These emitters can be obtained by laser doping through the phosphosilicate glass layer formed after thermal diffusion from POCl3 gas. The experimental results show that in contrast to purely POCl3 furnace-diffused emitters, the saturation current density of laser-doped emitters does not increase linearly as sheet resistance decreases, but rather features two distinct regimes. In one of these regimes, the saturation current density is found to decrease as the sheet resistance decreases, reaching values lower than those of furnace emitters. This peculiar behaviour was explained by both qualitative analysis and numerical simulations.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A surplus USN 40 mm ammunition can was subjected to a variety of tests. Pressure tests were carried out with nitrogen gas, followed by the venting of actual Li/SO/sub 2/ cells and batteries inside the can. A fire test was also conducted on a can packed with 10 each 10-cell batteries surrounded by vermiculite. Test results indicate the US Navy (USN) 40-mm ammunition can is suitable as a shipping container for Li/SO/sub 2/ batteries on passenger aircraft. To provide a further measure of safety, a sulfur dioxide getter was incorporated into the can. Studies indicated a commercial material, ASC carbon, is suitable for this purpose. The granular material was packaged in porous paper desiccant bags and placed in the can with the batteries and vermiculite. The batteries were vented inside the sealed can and the internal pressure monitored. Pressure returned to normal within several minutes, indicating that this arrangement should ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The effects of gas diffusion layer's (GDL's) anisotropic bending stiffness on the degradation behavior of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells have been investigated under freezing conditions. We have prepared GDL sheet samples such that the higher stiffness direction of GDL roll is aligned with the major flow field direction of a metallic bipolar plate at angles of 0^o (parallel: '0^o GDL') and 90^o (perpendicular: '90^o GDL'). The I-V performances before and after 1000 temperature cycles between -10 and 1 ^oC of 90^o GDL stack are higher than those of 0^o GDL stack, and the voltages of 90^o GDL stack are decreased slower than those of 0^o GDL stack, indicating a higher durability of 90^o GDL stack. Furthermore, the values and increasing rates of high-frequency resistance of 90^o GDL s...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Production decline-curve analysis is accepted for prediction of future performance of oil and gas wells and fields. One type of decline-curve analysis involves the hyperbolic-decline-curve equation. The challenge with this equation is to determine simultaneously three parameters. The new method creates a computer spreadsheet containing a set of production data. Then, the specific arrangement of cells and columns containing data and/or formulas allows for statistical fits of the data. Finally, setting-up the nonlinear solver allows for optimization of the three parameters by maximization of the square of the regression coefficient. Eight field cases demonstrated the repeatable and rapid curve-fitting of the method.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes a novel Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic method that can be used to rapidly screen soil samples from potentially hazardous waste sites. Samples are heated in a thermal desorption unit and the resultant vapors are collected and analyzed in a long-path gas cell mounted in a FTIR. Laboratory analysis of a soil sample by FTIR takes approximately 10 minutes. This method has been developed to identify and quantify microgram concentrations of explosives in soil samples and is directly applicable to the detection of selected volatile organics, semivolatile organics, and pesticides.

J-STORE (Japan)

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Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper examines the global impacts of a policy that internalizes the external costs (related to air pollution damage, excluding climate costs) of electricity generation using a combined energy systems and macroeconomic model. Starting point are estimates of the monetary damage costs for SO{sub 2}, NO {sub X} , and PM per kWh electricity generated, taking into account the fuel type, sulfur content, removal technology, generation efficiency, and population density. Internalizing these externalities implies that clean and advanced technologies increase their share in global electricity production. Particularly, advanced coal power plants, natural gas combined cycles, natural gas fuel cells, wind and biomass technologies gain significant market shares at the expense of traditional coal- and gas-fired plants. Global carbon dioxide emissions are lowered by 3% to 5%. Sulfur dioxide emissions drop ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper deals with conversions of solar energy efficiently into electricity and into gas laser radiation. In the first section, a review study of the possibility of a solar-electric thermophotovoltaic (TPV) device has been done. In a proposed extension of the TPV concept, a Cassagranian optical system concentrates solar radiation to heat a blackbody cavity to 2400/sup 0/K. A double-layer solar cell, GaAs and Si, forming the cylindrical surface concentric to the blackbody cavity, receives the blackbody radiation and converts it into electricity efficiently. A cell conversion efficiency of 50% or more would be possible with the TPV system. The second section explores the concept of blackbody radiation pumping of gas laser media as a step toward utilization of solar energy as a laser pumping source. To demonstrate this concept, an experiment was performed in which various gas ...

Science.gov (United States)

This talk will summarize key features of three conceptual fusion neutron test facilities designed in the early 1980s: TASKA,^1 TDF,^2 and TASKA-M.^3 Motivated by the accessibility and maintainability of cylindrical geometry, these magnetic-mirror designs possess a simple central cell, as in a fusion neutron test facility based on the gas dynamic trap (GDT).^4 The TASKA-M design, like today's GDT designs, included the injection of neutral beams into the central cell to create a sloshing-ion distribution that gives density peaks near the materials test modules. In TASKA and TDF, the minimum-B end-cell designs contained thermal barriers, regions of low electrostatic potential to reduce electron flow between central cell and end cells. Thermal barriers improve performance but require more complicated input power systems, and their physics basis is less well ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper demonstrates that a commercial-scale facility for encapsulating krypton-85 in zeolite-5A or glass at a 2000 MTHM per year nuclear fuel reprocessing plant can be designed to contain fragments and the 340 to 850 kCi krypton-85 inventory from an assumed catastrophic failure of the high pressure vessel. The vessel failure was assumed as a worst case and was not based on a detailed design evaluation or operating experience. The process design is based on existing commercial hot isostatic pressing technology operated at up to 40 times the scale required for krypton encapsulation. From the calculated process gas inventory in the pressure vessel and vessel design, the maximum explosive energy of 8.4 kg TNT and resulting vessel plug and fragment velocities were calculated. The facility Containment Cell housing the high pressure vessel was designed to contain the gases, fragments, and the shock wave energy calculated for a hypothetical vessel ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

On-board reforming of liquid fuels to hydrogen for use in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) has been the subject of numerous investigations. In many respects, liquid fuels represent a more attractive method of carrying hydrogen than compressed hydrogen itself, promising greater vehicle range, shorter refilling times, increased safety, and perhaps most importantly, utilization of the current fuel distribution infrastructure. The drawbacks of on-board reformers include their inherent complexity [for example a POX reactor includes: a fuel vaporizer, a reformer, water-gas shift reactors, a preferential oxidation (PROX) unit for CO cleanup, heat exchangers for thermal integration, sensors and controls, etc.], weight, and expense relative to compressed H{sub 2}, as well as degraded fuel cell performance due to the presence of inert gases and impurities in the reformate. Partial oxidation (POX) of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The availability of polysilicon feedstock has become a major issue for the photovoltaic (PV) industry in recent years. Most of the current polysilicon feedstock is derived from rejected material from the semiconductor industry. However, the reject material can become scarce and more expensive during periods of expansion in the integrated-circuit industry. Continued rapid expansion of the PV crystalline-silicon industry will eventually require a dedicated supply of polysilicon feedstock to produce solar cells at lower costs. The photovoltaic industry can accept a lower purity polysilicon feedstock (solar-grade) compared to the semiconductor industry. The purity requirements and potential production techniques for solar-grade polysilicon have been reviewed. One interesting process from previous research involves reactive gas blowing of the molten silicon charge. As an example, Dosaj et all reported a reduction of metal and boron impurities from ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract The term -stem cell- most commonly refers to embryonic stem cells, particularly in the lay media; however, it also describes other cell types. A stem cell represents a cell of multi-lineage potential with the ability for self-renewal. It is now clear that the plasticity and immortality of a given stem cell will depend on what type of stem cell it is, whether an embryonic stem cell, a fetal-placental stem cell or an adult stem cell. Stem cells offer great promise as cell-based therapies for the future. With evolving technology, much of the socio-political debate regarding stem cells can now be avoided.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The contaminants that are potentially present in the coal-derived gas stream and their thermochemical nature are discussed. Accelerated testing was carried out on Ni-YSZ/YSZ/LSM solid oxide fuel cells (YSZ: yttria stabilized zirconia and LSM: lanthanum strontium manganese oxide) for eight main kind of contaminants: CH{sub 3}Cl, HCl, As, P, Zn, Hg, Cd and Sb at the temperature range of 750-850 C. The As and P species, at 10 and 35 ppm, respectively, resulted in severe power density degradation at temperatures 800 C and below. SEM and EDX analysis indicated that As attacked the Ni region of the anode surface and the Ni current collector, caused the break of the current collector and the eventual cell failure at 800 C. The phosphorous containing species were found in the bulk of the anode, they were segregated and formed ''grain boundary'' like phases separating large Ni patches. These ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A comparative process can be shown for the design of combined fuel cell powerstations. It is worth noting that the output of a combined powerstation working reversibly is independent of the thermodynamic state of the cell, and only depends on the reaction and thermodynamic state of the environment. The potential efficiency of gas-fired combined fuel cell powerstations is estimated at 80%. The fuel cell proves to be an isothermal heat source and not an adiabatic fluegas generator. This applies generally for all combustion power processes. Compared with external reforming, the integration of the reforming in the whole process leads to distinct advantages in efficiency if the possibilities of using the waste heat of intermediate thermal power processes are fully exploited. The plant implementation with an SOFC gas turbine process shows that realisation of a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Westinghouse Electric Corporation has undertaken to investigate, develop, and characterize laser-assisted processing techniques utilized to produce the fine line, thin metal grid structures that are required to fabricate high-efficiency solar cells. Two basic techniques for metal deposition will be investigated, as follows: (1) photochemical decomposition of liquid or gas phase organometallic compounds utilizing either a focused, CW ultraviolet laser (System 1) or a mask and ultraviolet flood illumination, such as that provided by a repetitively pulsed, defocused excimer laser (System 2), for pattern definition, and (2) thermal deposition of metals from organometallic solutions or vapors utilizing a focused, CW laser beam as a local heat source to draw the metallization pattern. The purpose of this contract is to investigate the various existing laser-assisted film deposition techniques in order to develop a new, cost-effective technology ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Science.gov (United States)

No abstract available.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The DOE Working Group for an Assessment of Coal-Gasification Research Needs (COGARN - coal gasification advanced research needs) has reviewed and evaluated US programs dealing with coal gasification for a variety of applications. Cost evaluations and environmental-impact assessments formed important components of the deliberations. We have examined in some depth each of the following technologies: coal gasification for electricity generation in combined-cycle systems, coal gasification for the production of synthetic natural gas, coal gasifiers for direct electricity generation in fuel cells, and coal gasification for the production of synthesis gas as a first step in the manufacture of a wide variety of chemicals and fuels. Both catalytic and non-catalytic conversion processes were considered. In addition, we have constructed an orderly, long-range research agenda on coal science, pyrolysis, and partial combustion in order ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Options for successfully using biogas depend on project scale. Almost all biogas from anaerobic digesters must first go through a gas handling system that pressurizes, meters, and filters the biogas. Additional treatment, including hydrogen sulfide-mercaptan scrubbing, gas drying, and carbon dioxide removal may be necessary for specialized uses, but these are complex and expensive processes. Thus, they can be justified only for large-scale projects that require high-quality biogas. Small-scale projects (less than 65 cfm) generally use biogas (as produced) as a boiler fuel or for fueling internal combustion engine-generators to produce electricity. If engines or boilers are selected properly, there should be no need to remove hydrogen sulfide. Small-scale combustion turbines, steam turbines, and fuel cells are not used because of their technical complexity and high capital cost. Biogas cleanup to pipeline or transportation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recent studies indicate that [Fe]-hydrogenases and H{sub 2} metabolism are widely distributed among green algae. The enzymes are simple structured and catalyze H{sub 2} evolution with similar rates than the more complex [Fe]-hydrogenases from bacteria. Different green algal species developed diverse strategies to survive under sulfur deprivation. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii evolves large quantities of hydrogen gas in the absence of sulfur. In a sealed culture of C. reinhardtii, the photosynthetic O{sub 2} evolution rate drops below the rate of respiratory O{sub 2} consumption due to a reversible inhibition of photosystem II, thus leading to an intracellular anaerobiosis. The algal cells survive under these anaerobic conditions by switching their metabolism to a kind of photo-fermentation. Although possessing a functional [Fe]-hydrogenase gene, the cells of Scenedesmus obliquus produce no significant amounts of H{sub 2} under ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper contains literature from American Power Conference Air Toxics Being Measured Accurately, Controlled Effectively NO{sub x} and SO{sub 2} Emissions Reduced; Surface Condensers Improve Heat Rate; Usable Fuel from Municipal Solid Waste; Cofiring Technology Reduces Gas Turbine Emissions; Trainable, Rugged Microsensor Identifies of Gases; High-Tc Superconductors Fabricated; High-Temperature Superconducting Current Leads; Vitrification of Low-Level Radioactive and Mixed Wastes; Characterization, Demolition, and Disposal of Contaminated Structures; On-Line Plant Diagnostics and Management; Sulfide Ceramic Materials for Improved Batteries; Flywheel Provides Efficient Energy Storage; Battery Systems for Electric Vehicles; Polymer-Electrolyte Fuel Cells for Transportation; Solid-Oxide Fuel Cells for Transportation; Surface Acoustic Wave Sensor Monitors Emissions in Real-Time; Advance Alternative-Fueled Automotive ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The object of this research is to study reactivity at superthermal collision energies using a fast neutral beam that is generated by photodetachment. Systems scheduled for initial study include basic oxygen-hydrogen reactions. Unfortunately, we can not yet report realization of this goal, but during this funding period we have made advances that are anticipated to lead to successful measurements during the next year. The parameters described below refer to the model system O + H{sub 2} {yields} OH + H. The basic design involves the collision of fast neutrals, created by photodetachment of the corresponding negative molecular ion, with a stable reactant gas in a collision cell. Products are detected by ionization and mass analysis. We are equipped to study rotational effects on reactivity by comparing results for rotational levels J = 0 and 1 of H{sub 2}. Highlights during the funding period are given in this report.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Nitric oxide (NO) is a gas produced through the action of nitric oxide synthase that acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) of adult gastropod mollusks. There are no known reports of the presence of NOS-containing neurons and glial cells in young and adult Megalobulimus abbreviatus. Therefore, NADPH-d histochemistry was employed to map the nitrergic distribution in the CNS of young and adult snails in an attempt to identify any transient enzymatic activity in the developing CNS. Reaction was observed in neurons and fibers in all CNS ganglia of both age groups, but in the pedal and cerebral ganglia, positive neurons were more intense than in other ganglia, forming clusters symmetrically located in both paired ganglia. However, neuronal NADPH-d activity in the mesocer...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Amino-rich polymeric coatings are widely used in biomedical applications, since they promote adsorption of diverse biomolecules or facilitate cell growth. As a consequence, there is a growing interest in fabrication of such coatings that is focused predominantly on the optimization of the deposition process in terms of high density of primary amino groups. In addition, the nature of biomedical applications requires also sufficient stability of the films in aqueous environments. This aspect is investigated in this contribution. In particular, the effect of water and phosphate buffer saline on the coatings prepared by RF magnetron sputtering of Nylon 6,6 in Ar/N2 and N2/H2 gas mixtures is evaluated. The samples exposed to liquids are characterized by various diagnostic methods and their prop...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTD) are widely used for radon measurements and CR-39 is one of the most popular SSNTD. In this work it was determined the calibration factor for radon concentration measurements through the passive method with CR-39 detectors. The detectors were put in a proper device (an adapted Lucas cell) and exposed to the standard radon concentration through the Pylon Model RN-150 flow through radon gas source. After exposure, the detectors were etched for 5.5 hours in a KOH solution at 80 deg C in a bath at a constant temperature. The track density was read in an Axiolab-Zeiss optical microscope, with nominal magnification of X10 connected to a video camera and to a personal computer. The calibration factor was obtained through the relation between standard radon concentration, track density and exposure time. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The absorption of carbonyl sulfide in aqueous methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) was studied over a range of temperatures and MDEA concentrations. MDEA is commonly used for selective absorption of hydrogen sulfide in the presence of carbon dioxide. However, sulfur in the form of COS may also be present and it is necessary that estimates of absorption rates of this compound be made. The objective of this study is to determine the physiochemical properties needed to predict COS absorption rates in aqueous MDEA. Free gas solubility and the diffusivity of COS in MDEA solutions were measured over the temperature range 15 to 40{sup 0}C for MDEA concentrations up to 30 weight per cent using the nitrous oxide analogy method. Solubilities were measured volumetrically in an equilibrium cell and diffusivities were measured using a laminar liquid jet absorber. The kinetics of the reaction between COS and MDEA were studied by measuring absorption rates in a single ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Developing safe, reliable, cost-effective, and efficient hydrogen-electricity co-generation systems is an important step in the quest for national energy security and minimized reliance on foreign oil. This project aimed to, through materials research, develop a cost-effective advanced technology cogenerating hydrogen and electricity directly from distributed natural gas and/or coal-derived fuels. This advanced technology was built upon a novel hybrid module composed of solid-oxide fuel-assisted electrolysis cells (SOFECs) and solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), both of which were in planar, anode-supported designs. A SOFEC is an electrochemical device, in which an oxidizable fuel and steam are fed to the anode and cathode, respectively. Steam on the cathode is split into oxygen ions that are transported through an oxygen ion-conducting electrolyte (i.e. YSZ) to oxidize the anode fuel. The dissociated hydrogen and residual ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Motivation: Automatic recognition of cell identities is critical for quantitative measurement, targeting and manipulation of cells of model animals at single-cell resolution. It has been...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The R and D activities of the institute focused on two major projects, ``Molecular and cellular environmental toxicology``, and ``Biophysics of multi-cellular systems``. For assessment of health risks emanating from the uptake of heavy metal compounds, work performed under the first mentioned project studies the formation of allergy-inducing metabolic products from membrane lipids, and the effects of related cellular signaling processes. These studies are accompanied by an approach to quantify and classify the toxicity of environmental organometallic compounds. Another major task is research into the pathogenesis of lung disease induced by dusts, gases, and gas-dust mixtures and the liberation of inflammatory agents by immunological cell reactions (alveolar macrophages). Atomic force microscopy is the tool used to visualize the related dynamic changes in bronchial cells. Studies for detection of the localisation and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this paper we consider properties of the ideal gas of classical (nonquantum) tachyons.

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fourier transform infrared absorption spectroscopy has been used for the determination of the line strengths of 41 CO and CO[sub 2] absorption lines at temperatures between 295 and 1250 K. The CO vibrational-rotational lines were from the [ital P] branch of the fundamental absorption band (2150--1950 cm[sup [minus]1]) while the CO[sub 2] vibrational-rotational lines were from the far wing of the [ital R] branch of the [nu][sub 3] fundamental band (2395--2380 cm[sup [minus]1]). The intensities of the lines were measured from absorption spectra recorded in a high-temperature gas cell containing known concentrations of CO/CO[sub 2]/N[sub 2] gas mixtures at atmospheric pressure. Absorption spectra were recorded through the cell with the use of a moderate-resolution Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The absorption spectra were mathematically corrected for distortions resulting from the finite ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Abstract not provided

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... electric utilities electrochemistry energy storage fuel cells organizational models

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A copyrighted computational fluid dynamics computer code, ICOMFLO, has been developed for the simulation of multiphase reacting flows. The code solves conservation equations for gaseous species and droplets (or solid particles) of various sizes. General conservation laws, expressed by elliptic type partial differential equations, are used in conjunction with rate equations governing the mass, momentum, enthalpy, species, turbulent kinetic energy, and turbulent dissipation. Associated phenomenological submodels of the code include integral combustion, two parameter turbulence, particle evaporation, and interfacial submodels. A newly developed integral combustion submodel replacing an Arrhenius type differential reaction submodel has been implemented to improve numerical convergence and enhance numerical stability. A two parameter turbulence submodel is modified for both gas and solid phases. An evaporation submodel treats not only droplet evaporation but size ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We studied telomeric DNA in leukemic cells as well as in normal T cells, B cells, monocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and bone marrow hematopoietic progenitor cells. No marked differences were...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thermal (gas) nitridation of stainless steel alloys can yield low interfacial contact resistance (ICR), electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant nitride containing surface layers (Cr{sub 2}N, CrN, TiN, V{sub 2}N, VN, etc.) of interest for fuel cells, batteries, and sensors. This paper presents results of scale-up studies to determine the feasibility of extending the nitridation approach to thin 0.1 mm stainless steel alloy foils for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) bipolar plates. Developmental Fe-20Cr-4V alloy and type 2205 stainless steel foils were treated by pre-oxidation and nitridation to form low-ICR, corrosion-resistant surfaces. As-treated Fe-20Cr-4V foil exhibited target (low) ICR values, whereas 2205 foil suffered from run-to-run variation in ICR values, ranging up to 2 x the target value. Pre-oxidized and nitrided surface structure examination revealed surface-through-layer-thickness V-nitride ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Successful interface engineering requires compositional and electronic material characterization as a prerequisite for understanding and intentionally generating interfaces in photovoltaic devices. The paper gives an overview with several examples, all referring to Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se){sub 2} ('CIGSSe')-based solar cells, with an emphasis on characterization using highly specialized methods, such as elastic recoil detection analysis, X-ray emission spectroscopy and photoelectron spectroscopy using synchrotron and ultraviolet light for excitation, inverse photoemission spectroscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy. First, the determination of the depth profile of the band gap energy E{sub g} in the absorber layer is demonstrated. The modification of E{sub g} towards both interfaces is discussed in terms of beneficial electronic effects. Next, the interface between absorber and buffer layers with alternative and promising non-toxic materials is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The book tries about the International and national aspects, natural gas situation, production, consumption, prices, demand projection, energetic plans, norms and laws of the natural gas in Colombia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document provides information on the supply and disposition of natural gas to a wide audience. The 1996 data are presented in a sequence that follows natural gas from it`s production to it`s end use.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The origin of natural gas in the Japanese oil and gas fields are geochemically studied. Samples are taken from structural natural gas, surface gas seepage, water-dissolved natural gas and coal-field gas of the Japan Sea coast area. The origins of primary hydrocarbons are classified into bacteria gas and thermogenic gas, the latter being subclassified into gas in oil production zone with the per million deviation of the carbon isotope (/sup 13/C/sup 1/) of methane less than -35 and those gases with maturity higher than this. Surface gas seepage is subjected to migration and bacterial oxidation. Coal gas is similar to oil gas. The CO/sub 2/ concentration is 0 - 2% and /sup 13/CO/sub 2/ deviations from -30 - +30. The origin can be barely ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We have investigated the properties of nerve cell precursors in hydra by analyzing the differentiation and proliferation capacity of interstitial cells in the peduncle of Hydra oligactis, which is a region of active nerve cell differentiation. Our results indicate that about 50% of the interstitial cells in the peduncle can grow rapidly and also give rise to nematocyte precursors when transplanted into a gastric environment. If these cells were committed nerve cell precursors, one would not expect them to differentiate into nematocytes nor to proliferate apparently without limit. Therefore we conclude that cycling interstitial cells in peduncles are not intermediates in the nerve cell differentiation pathway but are stem cells. The remaining interstitial cells in the peduncle are ...

Science.gov (United States)

... Solar Cell Radiation Respinnse Near the Interface o~f fliffprerv- ... 5 4. CALCUTl-ATED SOLAR CELL RLSPONSE FOR VARIOUS BASE MATERIALS ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Experiments were designed to elucidate whether or not the irradiated bone marrow cells receive any stimulation for the self-replication and differentiation from normal 'stromal' cell colonies in the bone marrow cell culture in vitro. When irradiated or unirradiated bone marrow cells were overlaid on the normal adherent cell colonies, the proliferation of haemopoietic stem cells was supported, the degree of the stimulation depending on the starting cellular concentration. There was, however, no significant changes in the concentration of either CFUs or CFUc regardless of the dose of irradiation on the bone marrow cells overlaid. This was a great contrast to the dose-dependent decrease of CFUs or CFUc within the culture in which both the stem cells and stromal cells were ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

In most adult tissues there reside pools of stem and progenitor cells inside specialized microenvironments referred to as niches. The niche protects the stem cells from inappropriate expansion...Full Text Available

Wastenet

... Fuel Cell Technologies Equipment on Environmental Expert Find and compare a variety of fuel cell technologies equipment on the world's largest environmental industry portal. View ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Purpose.There is a paucity of neuron replacement studies for retinal ganglion cells. Given the complex phenotype of these neurons, replacement of ganglion cells may be impossible....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We report the isolation of adherent, clonogenic, fibroblast-like cells with osteogenic and adipogenic potential from the blood of four mammalian species. These cells phenotypically resemble but are...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This thesis deals with the analysis of dominant loss mechanisms in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) and hydrogen fed polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEFC) by means of experimental characterization and modeling work. Due to different fuels used in these two fuel cell types, the dominant loss mechanisms are different in their nature. All in-situ characterization techniques that are used in this work are based on a novel test fuel cell with embedded reference electrodes. The first part of this work presents a new concept for realizing a reference electrode configuration in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell by means of laser ablation. The laser beam is used to evaporate a small gap into the electrode surface of a catalyst coated membrane (CCM) to isolate the reference electrode from the working/counter electrode (WE/CE). This method enables the simultaneous ablation of ...

Science.gov (United States)

Not Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Short communication.

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... Title : ON-LINE MONITORING OF FLUE GAS DESULFURIZATION SCRUBBER CORROSION WITH ELECTROCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES. ...

Science.gov (United States)

... Accession Number : ADD419981. Title : Flue Gas Desulfurization and Its Alternatives: The State of the Art,. Corporate Author ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The pentenary compound semiconductor Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2 is one of the most attractive materials for high-efficiency solar cells due to its tunable band gap to match well the solar spectrum. In this study, semiconducting Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2 thin films were prepared by a classical two-step growth process, which involves the selenization and/or sulfurization of In/Cu?Ga precursor. During the precursor formation step metallic In/Cu?Ga alloys were deposited onto the Mo-coated soda-lime glass substrates by DC magnetron sputter process. The respective precursors were subsequently reacted with H2Se and/or H2S gasses, at elevated temperatures. By optimizing the selenization parameters, such as the gas concentrations, reaction time, reaction temperature, and the flow of H2Se and H2S, high quality, single...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Optical Isotope shift measurements have been performed for the {sup 240f,242f}Am fission isomers to test the stability of nuclear deformation as function of the neutron number. The method is based on resonance ionization spectroscopy (RIS) in a buffer gas cell with fission detection of the ionization process. The {sup 240f,242f}Am fission isomers have been produced by {sup 242}Pu(p, 3n), {sup 242}Pu(d, 2n) reactions, respectively. Relative isotope shift ratios X{sub exp}{sup 242f}(500 nm)=IS{sup 242f,241}/IS{sup 243,241}=41.4(8) and X{sub exp}{sup 240f}(500 nm)=IS{sup 240f,241}/IS{sup 243,241}=39.2(8) were measured. From these ratios a small difference {delta}{beta}{sub 2}{sup 242f,240f}=0.0076(14) of the deformation parameter {beta}{sub 2} can be deduced assuming that the isotope shift between the reference isotopes {sup 241,243}Am is caused by a pure volume change. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An overall plant design was developed for a gas-cooled fast reactor employing a direct supercritical Brayton power conversion system. The most important findings were that (1) the concept could be capital-cost competitive, but startup fuel cycle costs are penalized by the low core power density, specified in large part to satisfy the goal of significant post-accident passive natural convection cooling; (2) active decay heat removal is preferable as the first line of defense, with passive performance in a backup role; (3) an innovative tube-in-duct fuel assembly, vented to the primary coolant, appears to be practicable; and (4) use of the S-Co2 GFR to support hydrogen production is a synergistic application, since sufficient energy can be recuperated from the product H2 and 02 to allow the electrolysis cell to run 250 C hotter than the reactor coolant, and the water boilers can be used for reactor decay heat removal. Increasing core power ...

CERN Document Server

565 deg C occurs when dissolution rate exceeds oxidation rate, exposing the fresh Al anode to the glass melt. Under inert atmosphere (at 583 deg C), air oxidation is not possible and galvanic cell redox reactions generate an excessive copper interlayer as the system attempts to sustain the oxide layer at the anode. Similar behaviour is observed in those coatings formed on the alloy using glass C (containing Al sub 2 O sub 3 and Na sub 2 O). In this case, the interfacial reactions involve the PbO of the glass and Pb-rich spherical precipitates are formed in the interfacial region, along side sodium aluminosilicate phases, precipitated from the PbO-depleted glass. The behaviour in both systems indicates that oxygen diffuses through the edge of the glass drop, from the atmosphere, to the substrate/glass interface. Coatings formed on the MMCs in air exhibited a porosity of approx 10%, attributed to the production of CO sub 2 gas through the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Research and experimental development comprise innovative and creative work undertaken systematically to increase the stock of knowledge of science, engineering, and society. This knowledge reserve is used to improve living conditions and standards, including economic growth. Research and development (R&D) expenditures are useful measures of the scale and direction of technological innovation within a country, industry, or scientific field. Administrators concerned with economic growth and performance rely on R&D statistics as one possible type of indicator of technological change. R&D statistics are an essential tool in many government programs and evaluations (OECD 1993). The objective of the analysis was to identify and evaluate R&D funding sources, levels, and trends in the energy sectors of selected industrialized countries (Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We report the performance of a micro gas turbine on biomass producer gas and mixtures of biomass producer gas with natural gas. The micro gas turbine delivers full power on gas mixtures with a heating value of at least 15 MJ/Nm{sup 3}. For gas of lower heating value, the maximum fuel gas flow limits the attainable power. The lower limit for stable operation is about 8 MJ/Nm{sup 3}. The gross efficiency of the micro gas turbine depends on output power but not on the gas heating value, within our measurement accuracy. Above 70% of full power, emissions of CO and NO are 40 and 10 times lower than those of a gas engine of similar size. At part load below 70% of full power, the micro gas turbine burner switches to a different operating mode ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Terminal differentiation of many vascular cells involves cell wall changes. Cells first elongate their primary wall, then lay down a lignified secondary wall, which is often followed by digestion of...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Totipotent stem cells have the potential to differentiate into every cell type. Renewal of totipotent stem cells in the germline and cellular differentiation during early embryogenesis rely upon posttranscriptional...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

AIM: To isolate and identify the biological characteristics of human colon cancer stem cells (SW1116 cells) and further study their proteome.METHODS: SW1116 cells were isolated and cultured with...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Not Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundStem cell characteristics are an important feature of human cancer cells and play a major role in the therapy resistance of tumours. Strategies to target cancer stem cells...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundAs the resident stem cells of skeletal muscle, satellite cells are activated by extracellular cues associated with local damage. Once activated, satellite cells will re-enter...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We describe the lethal, recessive accelerated-cell-death11 Arabidopsis mutant (acd11). Cell death in acd11 exhibits characteristics of animal apoptosis...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background:Stem cells can differentiate into multiple cell types, and therefore can be used for cellular therapies, including tissue repair. However, the participation of stem cells...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Not Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Hematopoietic stem cells replenish all the cells of the blood throughout the lifetime of an animal. Although thousands of stem cells reside in the bone marrow, only a few contribute to blood production...Full Text Available

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

In the growing chloronema cell suspension cultures of the moss Funaria hygrometrica Hedw., activities of several enzymes have been found to be cell-density-dependent. Cyclic nucleotide...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

...false Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research Presidential Documents ...2009 Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research Memorandum for the Heads...scientifically worthy human stem cell research, including human...

Wastenet

...Basic Information | Fuel Cells & Vehicles | US EPA This web page provides basic information on EPA's Fuel Cells & Vehicles web site ...including the chemical composition of fuel cell technology, how it works, descriptions of the various types of fuel cells , their availability and ... background,electrochemical,hydrogen,fuel cell,fuel cell vehicle,fuel reformer,performace,improved fuel economy,increased engine efficiency,lower emissions,zero emissions,availablity,fuel cell types,diagram,Proton ...Exchange Membrane,PEM Basic Information | Fuel Cells & Vehicles | US EPA background,electrochemical,hydrogen,fuel cell,fuel cell vehicle,fuel reformer,performace,improved fuel economy,...

Science.gov (United States)

Students get a background on Stem Cell technology and learn to write an effective opinion essay.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Laser-assisted processing techniques for producing high-quality solar cell metallization patterns are investigated, developed, and characterized. The tasks comprising these investigations are outlined. A new batch of solar cells was processed using the laser decomposition of spun-on silver neodecanoate to metallize cells. Decomposition of silver neodecanoate was carried out at different laser powers on different cells on a given wafer to determine whether this would have any effect on cell performance. Solar cells which were written with laser powers of 5 to 8 watts, gave excellent results with cell efficiencies in the range of 14 to 16%.

Science.gov (United States)

... nent to the design and construction of metal-semiconductor solar cells, in that both the photovoltage and the efficiency of metal-semiconductor cells ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Formaldehyde, a well-identified indoor pollutant, was recently classified as carcinogenic. New regulations for the air quality are expected and therefore there is a need for low-cost sensors, sensitive and selective with a fast response time for the detection of formaldehyde at ppb level. In the present work, we had developed a chemical sensor based on nano-porous matrices doped with Fluoral-P and optical methods of detection. The nano-porous matrices, elaborated via the Sol-Gel process, display nano-pores whose cavity is tailored for the trapping of the targeted pollutant. They provide a first selectivity with the discrimination of the pollutants by their size. A second selectivity is obtained with a molecular probe, Fluoral-P, which reacts specifically with formaldehyde leading to the 3,5- di-acetyl-1,4-dihydro-lutidine (DDL). The kinetics of formation of DDL was studied as function of many parameters such as the concentration of Fluoral-P in the matrix, the pollutant content in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ultra-low pure Pt-based electrodes (0.04-0.12 mg_P_t/cm"2) were prepared by dual ion-beam assisted deposition (dual IBAD) method on the surface of a non-catalyzed gas diffusion layer (GDL) substrate. Film thicknesses ranged between 250 and 750 A, these are compared with a control, a conventional Pt/C (1.0 mg_P_t_(_M_E_A_)/cm"2, E-TEK). The IBAD electrode constituted a significantly different morphology, where low density Pt deposits (largely amorphous) were formed with varying depths of penetration into the gas diffusion layer, exhibiting a gradual change towards increasing crystalline character (from 250 to 750 A). Mass specific power density of 0.297 g_P_t/kW is reported with 250 A IBAD deposit (0.04 mg_P_t/cm"2 for a total MEA loading of 0.08 mg_P_t/cm"2) at 0.65 V. This is contrasted with the commercial MEA with a loading of 1 mg_P_t_(_M_E_A_)/cm"2 where mass specific power density obtained was 1.18 g_P_t/kW (at 0.65 V), a value typical of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This patent describes an electrodeless lamp. It comprises: a microwave cavity; a source of microwaves in communication with the cavity; a lamp envelope containing a plasma-forming medium mounted within the microwave cavity; a gas manifold for feeding gas to at least one gas passageway for directing a stream of gas to the outer surface of the envelope; a gas leak passageway leading from the gas manifold; a conductive mesh assembly for retaining microwaves within the cavity and permitting light to be emitted from the cavity. The assembly including gas flow blocking means for preventing the flow of gas through the gas leak passageway when the screen is in place in the lamp; and means for shutting off the source of microwaves when the gas pressure in the manifold drops below a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gas nitridation has shown excellent promise to form dense, electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant Cr-nitride surface layers on Ni-Cr base alloys for use as proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) bipolar plates. Due to the high cost of nickel, Fe-base bipolar plate alloys are needed to meet the cost targets for many PEMFC applications. Unfortunately, nitridation of Fe-base stainless steel alloys typically leads to internal Cr-nitride precipitation rather than the desired protective surface nitride layer formation, due to the high permeability of nitrogen in these alloys. This paper reports the finding that it is possible to form a continuous, protective Cr-nitride (CrN and Cr{sub 2}N) surface layer through nitridation of Fe-base stainless steel alloys. The key to form a protective Cr-nitride surface layer was found to be the initial formation of oxide during nitridation, which prevented the internal nitridation typically observed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A bottom-up approach is used here to combine carbon nanotubes synthesized by CVD and organically capped platinum nanoparticles electrocatalyst exhibiting a direct electrochemical activity towards oxygen reduction. Both nano-objects are handled in liquid suspension and are associated together in a controlled way. The nanocomposite liquid dispersions can be precisely controlled in terms of platinum nanoparticles to carbon nanotubes weight ratios (NP/NT) which correspond to different coverages of nanotubes by nanoparticles. Electrodes with low to ultra-low platinum loadings can then be prepared on porous fuel cell carbon supports by filtration. The direct electrochemical activity towards aqueous oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of electrodes with platinum loadings ranging from about 1 to 60 {mu}g/cm{sup 2} is reported without any activation step in order to keep the features of the nanoparticles intact. Before that, we studied the responses obtained when impregnating ...

Science.gov (United States)

Appendices to this summary consist of twelve individual status reports that will be available through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) in the United States and of course limited copies will be available through NATO. The twelve report titles which are appendices to the summary are: (A) Status Report on the Limestone/Sludge Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (B) Status Report on the Lime/Sludge Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (C) Status Report on the Double Alkali/Sludge Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (D) Status Report on the Sea Water Scrubbing Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (E) Status Report on the Limestone/Gypsum Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (F) Status Report on the Lime/Gypsum Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (G) Status Report on the Double Alkali/Gypsum Flue Gas Desulfurization Process; (H) Status Report on ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gas hydrates have impacted the oil and gas industry since 1934, when they were first found to plug pipelines. Today we know that in deep oceans and in permafrost, very substantial gas reserves are present in hydrated form. Concerns are being raised about in situ dissociation for both energy and greenhouse implications upon methane release. In Japan work is underway to consider the storage of carbon dioxide, concentrated in clathrates. This talk will deal with some basic questions. Why should we be interested in gas hydrates? What are gas hydrates? How do gas hydrates form? How might hydrates impact on the energy/environmental picture?

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gas hydrates are crystalline substances composed of water and gas, in which a solid-water-lattice accommodates gas molecules in a cage-like structure. Gas hydrates are globally widespread in permafrost regions and beneath the sea in sediment of outer continental margins. While methane, propane, and other gases can be included in the clathrate structure, methane hydrates appear to be the most common in nature. The amount of methane sequestered in gas hydrates is probably enormous, but estimates are speculative and range over three orders of magnitude from about 100,000 to 270,000,000 trillion cubic feet. The amount of gas in the hydrate reservoirs of the world greedy exceeds the volume of known conventional gas reserves. Gas hydrates also represent a significant drilling and production hazard. A fundamental question ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We report the performance of a commercial recuperated micro gas turbine on biomass producer gas and mixtures of biomass producer gas with natural gas. The biomass producer gas, obtained by gasification at 850{sup o}C with air at atmospheric pressure, contains about 7% H2, 17% CO, 15% CO2, 4% CH4, 2% other hydrocarbons, 2% H2O, and a balance of N2 and Ar from air. It has a net heating value of about 6 MJ/(Nm{sup 3}). The micro gas turbine delivers full power (30 kW{sub e}) on gas mixtures with a net heating value of at least 15 MJ/(Nm{sup 3}). For gas of lower heating value, the maximum fuel gas flow allowed by the fuel control unit limits the attainable power. At reduced power, the lower limit for stable operation is a net heating value of about 8 MJ/(Nm{sup 3}). The gross efficiency of the micro ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The situation of natural gas in the Federal Republic of Germany is described, with particular emphasis on the advantages and consequences of natural gas supply. The brochure discusses the role of natural gas on the energy market, the reliability of natural gas supply, the environmental impacts, the energy-saving effect of natural gas, natural gas prices, the competitive strength of the German gas industry, and the long-term reliability of natural gas supply. (orig.) [German] Die Situation des Erdgases in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland wird beschrieben, wobei die wichtigsten Vorteile und Auswirkungen der Erdgasversorgung besonders hervorgehoben werden. Es geht um die Stellung des Erdgases im Energiemarkt, die Sicherheit der Energieversorgung, Umweltschutz, Energieeinsparung durch Erdgaseinsatz, Erdgaspreise, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The genetic type, source and charging history of natural gas in the Yulin gas field in the Ordos Basin have been studied by combining the carbon isotopic composition of natural gas and geochemical characteristics of light hydrocarbons with carbon isotope fractionation model results and fluid inclusion analysis. The carbon isotopic composition of methane and ethane in the Yulin gas field is relatively enriched in {sup 13}C with {delta}{sup 13}C{sub 1} values ranging from - 35.3 permille to - 29.8 permille (average value = - 32.4 permille) and {delta}{sup 13}C{sub 2} ranging from - 26.3 permille to - 23.5 permille (average value = - 24.8 permille). The C{sub 7} light hydrocarbons are predominated by methylcyclohexane, accounting for 65.8% to 80.9% (average value = 71.6%), which is characteristic of coal-derived gas. Furthermore, the gas geochemistry indicates ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A combined gas/steam turbine process includes a high-pressure furnace and a high pressure gasification unit with a mounted upstream of a combustion chamber there is a gas turbine with a waste heat system. Combustion heat which is not needed to heat the flue gas to combustion temperature is released from the furnace and transferred to ths combustion air going into the combustion chamber.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The budding natural gas markets in East Europe attract a great deal of interest from natural gas industries in the Western countries. Dutch companies, institutions and the government, too, are active in this market. So far the results have not been spectacular. An analysis is made of the present situation and the Dutch approach

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An assay system for the stem cell that colonizes the thymus and differentiates into T cells was developed, and by using this assay system the existence of two subpopulations of stem cells for T cell lineage was clarified. Part-body-shielded and 900-R-irradiated C57BL/6 (H-2b, Thy-1.2) recipient mice, which do not require the transfer of pluripotent stem cells for their survival, were transferred with cells from B10 X Thy-1.1 (H-2b, Thy-1.1) donor mice. The reconstitution of the recipient's thymus lymphocytes was accomplished by stem cells in the donor cells and those spared in the shielded portion of the recipient that competitively colonize the thymus. Thus, the stem cell activity of donor cells can be evaluated by determining the proportion of donor-type (Thy-1.1+) ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The herbicide atrazine is a known immunotoxicant and an inhibitor of human natural killer (NK) cell lytic function. The precise changes in NK cell lytic function following atrazine exposure have not been fully elucidated. The current study identifies the point at which atrazine exerts its affect on the stepwise process of human NK cell-mediated lyses of the K562 target cell line. Using intracellular staining of human peripheral blood lymphocytes, it was determined that a 24-h in vitro exposure to atrazine did not decrease the level of NK cell lytic proteins granzyme A, granzyme B or perforin. Thus, it was hypothesized that atrazine exposure was inhibiting the ability of the NK cells to bind to the target cell and subsequently inhibit the release of lytic protein from the NK cell. To test t...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This article puts the case for coal fired combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants. The need to gasify the coal for the CCGT, use of fluidised bed combustors or gasification systems, the difference in prices of coal and natural gas, and coal and natural gas reserves are discussed. (UK)

Science.gov (United States)

Mist eliminators for flue gas desulphurisation units remove liquid droplets entrained in the flue gas leaving the SO/sub 2/-absorber vessels. The commercial designs currently available are described.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The presence of a high number of activated T cells in the bloodstream and spontaneous proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro are striking characteristics of human T-cell leukemia...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The herbicide atrazine is a known immunotoxicant and an inhibitor of human natural killer (NK) cell lytic function. The precise changes in NK cell lytic function following atrazine exposure have not been fully elucidated. The current study identifies the point at which atrazine exerts its affect on the stepwise process of human NK cell-mediated lyses of the K562 target cell line. Using intracellular staining of human peripheral blood lymphocytes, it was determined that a 24-h in vitro exposure to atrazine did not decrease the level of NK cell lytic proteins granzyme A, granzyme B or perforin. Thus, it was hypothesized that atrazine exposure was inhibiting the ability of the NK cells to bind to the target cell and subsequently inhibit the release of lytic protein from the NK cell. To test this hypothesis, flow cytometry ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

PCD (programmed cell death) in plants presents important morphological and biochemical differences compared with apoptosis in animal cells. This raises the question of whether PCD arose independently...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV), a retrovirus related to human T-cell leukemia virus types 1 and 2, can induce persistent nonneoplastic expansion of the CD5⁺ B-cell population, termed...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radon-222 has been measured in natural gas produced from experimental geopressured-geothermal test wells. Comparison with published data suggests that while radon activity of this unconventional natural gas resource is higher than conventional gas produced in the gulf coast, it is within the range found for conventional gas produced throughout the US. A method of predicting the likely radon activity of this unconventional gas is described on the basis of the data presented, methane solubility, and known or assumed reservoir conditions of temperature, fluid pressure, and formation water salinity.

Science.gov (United States)

... Accession Number : ADD135818. Title : Performance of Titanium in Flue Gas Desulfurization Scrubber Systems,. Descriptive Note : Journal Article,. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new surveillance system for Oil-Filled cable, which can provide continuous monitoring, using a newly developed optical gas sensor that can detect the concentration of the gas dissolved in the oil with extremely high sensitivity has been developed. It was proved that the degree of deterioration of the insulating oil can be detected by measuring C{sub 2}H{sub 2} and CH{sub 4} by investigating the relation between the degree of deterioration and amount of combustible gas generated. In order to detect extremely small amounts of gas, a new gas detecting method using absorption line of the gas using a frequency modulated technique has been developed. The gas detection ability was also confirmed by examination using a 66 kV of cable and the possibility of detection at an early stage is expected.

Science.gov (United States)

The purpose of this publication is to provide a better understanding of flue gas desulfurization. It provides brief answers to questions concerning its applicability, cost, effectiveness, and operation.

Science.gov (United States)

This bibliography contains 3920 references including abstracts, to information on the technology of flue gas desulfurization and denitrification. These references and others are included in the Department of Energy's Energy Data Base (EDB) through Decembe...

CERN Document Server

Differences in synchrotron radiation induced gas desorption from stainless steel and aluminium alloy

Science.gov (United States)

The PVSCAN is an instrument designed to characterize silicon solar cell materials and devices. It performs a host of measurements that yield spatial maps of dislocation density, grain distribution, reflectance, and photoresponses from near-junction and the bulk of a solar cell.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

There is ample evidence suggesting that superantigens may act as a triggering factor in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We investigated whether superantigen could activate T cells in...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The proliferation of stem cell research, conflated with its ethical and moral implications, has led governments to attempt regulation of both the science and funding of stem cells. Due to a diversity...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background: In North America and Europe, 80% of invasive skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma while 20% are squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In contrast, African studies reveal a preponderance...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes a radiation shield verification survey of a large hot cell at the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). The following aspects of the shield test are discussed: description of the FFTF; description of the hot cell; the test procedures; radiation protection, and the test results.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Human myeloid-lineage cells are refractory to HIV-1 infection. The Vpx proteins from HIV-2 and sooty mangabey SIV render these cells permissive to HIV-1 infection through proteasomal degradation of...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Most genetic changes that promote tumorigenesis involve dysregulation of G1 cell cycle progression. A key regulatory site in G1 is a growth factor–dependent restriction point (R) where cells...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... based, disease treatment remains promising, the emphasis for stem cell research from the biomedical research community is clear, and ... diagnosis as a novel source of embryos for stem cell research. Repr...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Placental and placental-like alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) levels in the culture media of 87 cell lines of neoplastic and 'normal' origin were measured by a conventional immunosorbent enzymatic assay...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A new method is described for continuously measuring cell turgor pressure (P), hydraulic conductivity (L_p), and volumetric elastic modulus (ε) in higher plant cells, using a pressure...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (NEP, CD10) is a cell-surface enzyme expressed by prostatic epithelial cells that cleaves and inactivates neuropeptides implicated in the growth of androgen-independent prostate...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Amorphous silicon solar cells have been shown to have efficiencies which degrade as a result of long exposure to light. Annealing such cells in air at a temperature of about 200.degree. C. for at least 30 minutes restores their efficiency.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Red cell transfusions are associated with the development of acute lung injury in the critically ill. Recent evidence suggests that storage induced alterations of the red blood cell (RBC) collectively...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Many patients who undergo hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) present with anemia and have received red blood cell transfusions before HCT. As a result, iron overload is frequent and appears...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Stem cells of the human prostate gland have not yet been identified utilizing a structural biomarker. We have discovered a new prostatic epithelial cell phenotype-expressing cytokeratin 6a (Ck6a+...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... is known as "reproductive cloning." The Link to Stem Cell Research Stem cell research and research cloning are closely linked. Scientists in ... to arrive at a position on cloning and stem cell research. Many nations, including the UK, China, and South ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The glycolipid content of human non-seminomatous germ cell tumour cell lines correlates with their differentiation lineage. To analyse whether this reflects the situation in primary tumours, we studied...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

DNA from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 17 different individuals infected with human T-cell lymphoma/leukemia virus type II (HTLV-II) was successfully amplified by the polymerase chain reaction...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The first cell lineage specification in mouse embryo development is the formation of trophectoderm (TE) and inner cell mass (ICM) of the blastocyst. This article is to review and discuss the...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Naturally occurring and contaminant ferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic particles have been found within or near cells, and might allow pulsed magnetic fields to create transient cell membrane opening ("pores")....Full Text Available