A new series of anatase TiO2 hollow structures were prepared by a facile hydrothermal process. When the hydrothermal time was increased from 20min to 72h, the resulting TiO2 solid spheres gradually transformed into TiO2 hollow spheres with higher surface crystallinity and exposed {001} facets. The as-prepared TiO2-72h sample exhibited the highest activity comparing to other TiO2-based samples and commercial product Degussa P-25 towards the selective photocatalytic oxidation of toluene to benzaldehyde. Such great photocatalytic performance was mainly attributed to enhanced UV-adsorption and better charge separation efficiency due to higher surface crystallinity of TiO2-72h.
Corrective Action Unit (CAU) No. 92, the Area 6 Decontamination Pond Facility (DPF), is an historic disposal unit located at the Nevada Test Site (NTS) in Nye County, Nevada (Figures 1 - 1, 1-2, and 1-3). The NTS is operated by the U.S. Department of Energy, Nevada Operations Office (DOE/NV), which has been required by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) to characterize the DPF under the requirements of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Part A Permit (NDEP, 1995) for the NTS and Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 265 (1996c). The DPF is prioritized in the Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (FFACO, 1996) but is governed by the permit. The DPF was characterized through sampling events in 1994, 1996, and 1997. The results of these sampling events are contained in the Final Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Industrial Site Environmental ...
This ISB in conjunction with the new TSRs, will provide the required basis for interim operation or restrictions on interim operations and administrative controls for the Facility until a SAR is prepared in accordance with the new requirements. It is concluded that the risk associated with the current operational mode of the Facility, uranium closure, clean up, and transition activities required for permanent closure, are within Risk Acceptance Guidelines. The Facility is classified as a Moderate Hazard Facility because of the potential for an unmitigated fire associated with the uranium storage buildings.
During the phases of separation, treatment, conditioning and storage of radioactive waste, destructive and nondestructive methods for their characterization are needed. In order to satisfy this necessity, in the frame of the National Program of Research and Development, the 'Laboratory for characterization of spent nuclear fuel and high/medium level radioactive waste- LABORAD' was created. The purpose of the project was to accredit the analysis methods available in the laboratory, and also to develop new methods for the characterization of the radioactive waste. A special attention was paid to the high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel characterization that require special facilities for handling. These facilities (e.g. hot cells, remote handlers, transport container) are already available in our institute. Experimental results and performances obtained during validation of the methods are presented in this paper. The laboratory ...
US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.1 requires the preparation of environmental monitoring plans and implementation of environmental monitoring programs for all DOE facilities. The order identifies two distinct components of environmental monitoring, namely effluent monitoring and environmental surveillance. In general, effluent monitoring has the objectives of characterizing contaminants and demonstrating compliance with applicable standards and permit requirements, whereas environmental surveillance has the broader objective of monitoring the effects of DOE activities on on- and off-site environmental and natural resources. The purpose of this document is to support the Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR) by describing the groundwater component of the environmental surveillance program for the DOE facilities on the ORR. The distinctions between groundwater effluent monitoring and ...
Monodisperse europium-activated titania hollow phosphors had been synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal method using carbon spheres as hard templates. Samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer and photoluminescence spectrum. The strongest emission intensity was observed with TiO2:Eu0.2 hollow spheres and TiO2:Eu0.2 hollow spheres calcining at 550^oC. Moreover, the strongest excitation of TiO2:Eu0.2 hollow spheres transferred from 400 to 500^oC and the effective nonradiative energy transfer from the TiO2 hollow spheres host matrix to Eu^3^+ ions crystal field states was realized due to changes of crystalline field in the environment around Eu^3^+ ions occupying Ti^4^+ site...
This ISB, in conjunction with the IOSR, provides the required basis for interim operation or restrictions on interim operations and administrative controls for the facility until a SAR is prepared in accordance with the new requirements or the facility is shut down. It is concluded that the risks associated with tha current and anticipated mode of the facility, uranium disposition, clean up, and transition activities required for permanent closure, are within risk guidelines.
This report provides procedures for evaluating metal, consumable, and combustible cartridge cases. It identifies supporting tests, facilities, and equipment required. Subtests include weapon and ammunition preparation, initial inspection, ammunition chara...
The Waste Sampling and Characterization Facility (WSCF) complex consists of the main structure (WSCF) and four support structures located in the 600 Area of the Hanford site east of the 200 West area and south of the Hanford Meterology Station. WSCF is to be used for low level sample analysis, less than 2 mRem. The Laboratory features state-of-the-art analytical and low level radiological counting equipment for gaseous, soil, and liquid sample analysis. In particular, this facility is to be used to perform Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 1976 and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980 sample analysis in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Protocols, room air and stack monitoring sample analysis, waste water treatment process support, and contractor laboratory ...
Examples are given of reference materials for radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis (RXFA) of the environment processed by the National Bureau of Standards and the IAEA. Methods are described used for preparing standard materials for RXFA. For determining air pollutants the sample is prepared by dry or wet mineralization. Water samples have to be preserved prior to analysis. Insoluble components are separated by filtration or centrifugation. Biological materials must be dehydrated and homogenized. Samples of soil, sludges, sediments and solid wastes will sometimes have to be converted into a solution in some cases a leachate will have to be obtained. (ES).
Aqueous solutions (mixed waste) generated from various LLNL operations, such as debris washing, samplepreparation and analysis, and equipment maintenance and cleanout, were combined for storage in the B695 tank farm. Prior to combination the individual waste streams had different codes depending on the particular generating process and waste characteristics. The largest streams were CWC 132, 791, 134, 792. Several smaller waste streams were also included. This combined waste stream was treated at LLNL's waste treatment facility using a vacuum filtration and cool vapor evaporation process in preparation for discharge to sanitary sewer. Prior to discharge, the treated waste stream was sampled and the results were reviewed by LLNL's water monitoring specialists. The treated solution was discharged following confirmation that it met the discharge criteria. A major ...
This paper describes a method for preparing the sample handling and inlet system of a mass spectrometer for analysis of a subsequent sample following analysis of a previous sample comprising the flushing of the system interior with supercritical CO{sub 2} and venting the interior. The method eliminates the effect of system ``memory`` on the subsequent analysis, especially following persistent samples such as xenon and krypton.
Focus Ion Beam (FIB) milling has greatly extended the utility of atom probe and TEM because it enables samplepreparation with a level of dimensional control never before possible. Using FIB it is possible to extract the samples from desired and very specific locations. The artifacts associated with this samplepreparation method must also be fully understood. In this work issues specifically relevant to the FIB milling of aluminum alloys are presented. After using the FIB as a samplepreparation technique it is evident that gallium will concentrate in three areas of the sample: on the surface, on grain boundaries and at interphase boundaries. This work also shows that low energy Ar ion nanomilling is potentially quite effective for removing gallium implantation layers and gallium from the internal surfaces of aluminum ...
This document defines the services the Waste Sampling and Characterization Facility (WSCF) shall provide Effluent Monitoring (EM) throughout the calendar year for analysis. The internal memo contained in Appendix A identifies the samples Em plans to submit for analysis in CY-1995. Analysis of effluent (liquid and air discharges) and environmental (air, liquid, animal, and vegetative) samples is required using standard laboratory procedures, in accordance with regulatory and control requirements. This report describes regulatory reporting requirements and WSCF services and data quality objectives.
In the fuel testing facilities of Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, the post-irradiation test of practical fuel used in nuclear power stations was begun in December, 1979, and the soundness of practical fuel has been confirmed, and the valuable post-irradiation test data on the behavior of fuel have been acquired. Recently, the heightening of fuel burnup has been advanced, and also in fuel testing facilities, the development and preparation of the post-irradiation testing facility required for examining in detail high burnup fuel have been carried out. The course of the installation of the post-irradiation testing facility and the outline of the facility are reported. As the preparation of the post-irradiation testing facility for high burnup fuel, a hyperfine hardness tester that measures dynamic hardness, the ...
Methods of sample treatment in XRF analysis of hair are studied in view of the effect on analytical results. A new method is proposed based on the incomplete ashing of hair followed by pellet preparation. Its suitability is estimated on the XRF analysis of real hair samples collected from 4 healthy adults. (author) 12 refs.; 4 figs.; 1 tab.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) operates a number of research and development (R and D) facilities for the Department of Energy on the Hanford Site. According to DOE Order 5400.1, a Facility Effluent Monitoring Plan is required for each site, facility, or process that uses, generates, releases, or manages significant pollutants or hazardous materials. Three of the R and D facilities: the 325, 331, and 3720 Buildings, are considered major emission points for radionuclide air sampling and thus individual Facility Effluent Monitoring Plans (FEMPs) have been developed for them. Because no definition of ''significant'' is provided in DOE Order 5400.1 or the accompanying regulatory guide DOE/EH-0173T, this FEMP was developed to describe monitoring requirements in the DOE-owned, PNNL-operated ...
Full text: A Large Sample Neutron Activation Analysis (LSNAA) facility is under development at GRR-1 research reactor, NCSR 'Demokritos'. The LSNAA facility design incorporates sample irradiation in the reactor's graphite thermal neutron column and subsequent measurement of the activity induced at a gamma spectroscopy system with gamma ray transmission measurement options included. Monte Carlo neutron and photon transport code MCNP-4C was used to model the facility. Appropriate correction factors accounting for neutron field perturbation during sample irradiation, high purity germanium detector efficiency for the volume source and gamma ray self-absorption within the sample itself were derived. The results of the computations were experimentally verified by activation foil measurements for a set of known materials and a range of ...
This document defines the services the Waste Sampling and Characterization Facility (WSCF) shall provide the Effluent and Environmental Monitoring Program (EEM) throughout the calendar year for analysis. The purpose of the EEM Program is to monitor liquid and gaseous effluents, and the environment immediately around the facilities which may contain radioactive and hazardous materials. Monitoring data are collected, evaluated, and reported to determine their degree of compliance with applicable federal and state regulations and permits.
Plutonium metal is produced by reducing PuF{sub 4} prepared from PuO{sub 2} by fluorination. Both fluorination and reduction are batch processes at the Los Alamos Plutonium Facility. The conversion of plutonium oxide to fluoride greatly increases the neutron yield, a result of the high cross section for alpha-neutron ({alpha},n) reactions on fluorine targets compared to the (more than 100 times) smaller {alpha},n yield on oxygen targets. Because of the increase, total neutron counting can be used to monitor the conversion process. This monitoring ability can lead to an improved metal product, reduced scrap for recycle, waste reduction, minimized reagent usage, and reduce personnel radiation exposures. A new stirred-bed fluorination process has been developed simultaneously with a recent evaluation of an automated neutron-counting instrument for quantitative process monitoring. Neutrons are counted with polyethylene-moderated {sup 3}He-gas ...
The composition and thickness of etch residues on the base of submicrometer via holes cannot be surmized from data on larger features. Auger sputter depth profiles were used to compare etch residues in 0.55 {mu}m via holes produced by different etch processes and remaining after different cleans. These residues varied significantly in composition and thickness with the processing history of the sample and from those on larger features. A focused ion beam (FIB) samplepreparation was developed to expose the bases of via holes and to help reduce sample charging. (author).
The applicability of the radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis (RXFA) for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of environmental plant samples is discussed and examples of determination of Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb in samples of apple trees are given. The instrumentation, the standard and samplepreparation are also presented.
We present a novel preparation method for studies of in vitro reconstituted mitotic chromosomes from Xenopus laevis egg extracts. This method involves a gentle adsorption of chromosomes from the extracts using surface affinity enrichment, followed by plunge freezing, freeze-substitution and cryo-embedding before examination by EM tomography. For comparison, chromosomes were also prepared by a conventional method, which included immobilization of chromosomes in agarose and a room-temperature dehydration (embedding) protocol. Three-dimensional reconstructions showed that samplesprepared with the new method have a greater interconnectivity of sub-structural features and a higher compaction ratio together with an apparently less perturbed chromatin structure than those prepared using the conventional approach. The implications of the new method for the preparation ...
The use of environmental monitoring as a technique to identify activities related to the nuclear fuel cycle has been proposed by international safeguards organizations. The elements specific for each kind of nuclear activity, or 'nuclear signatures', inserted in the ecosystem can be intercepted by different live organisms. This work demonstrates the technical viability of using pine needles as bioindicators of nuclear signatures associated with uranium enrichment activities. Additionally, it proposes the use of HR-ICP-MS to identify the signature corresponding to that kind of activities in the ecosystem. Nitric acid solutions, used to wash pine needles sampled near nuclear facilities and containing only 0.1 #mu#g x kg"-"1 of uranium, exhibit a n("2"3"5U)/n("2"3"8U) isotopic abundance ratio of 0.0092#+-#0.0002, while solutions originated from samples collected at places located more than 200 km far from activities related to ...
A dense silica glass was prepared by consolidating a highly dispersed silicic acid powder (particle size 1H magic-angle spinning (MAS) NMR confirmed an increase in hydroxyl groups in the sampleprepared by SPS relative to that of the conventional SiO2 reference glass. Aside from the comparably high water content, we conclude from the similarity of the IR-reflectance and the 29Si MAS NMR spectra of the SPS sample and the corresponding spectra of the conventionally prepared silica glass, that the short- and medium-range order is virtually the same in both materials. Raman spectroscopy, however, suggests that the number of three- and four-membered rings is significantly smaller in the SPS sample compared to the conventionally preparedsample. Based on these results we conclude that it is possible to ...
This Safety Analysis Report (SAR) is prepared in compliance with the requirements of DOE Order 5480.23, Nuclear Safety Analysis Reports, and has been written to the format and content guide of DOE-STD-3009-94 Preparation Guide for U. S. Department of Energy Nonreactor Nuclear Safety Analysis Reports. The Hot Cell Facility is a Hazard Category 2 nonreactor nuclear facility, and is operated by Sandia National Laboratories for the Department of Energy. This SAR provides a description of the HCF and its operations, an assessment of the hazards and potential accidents which may occur in the facility. The potential consequences and likelihood of these accidents are analyzed and described. Using the process and criteria described in DOE-STD-3009-94, safety-related structures, systems and components are identified, and the important safety functions of each SSC are described. Additionally, ...
This Guideline provides a set of procedures for the measurement of organic contaminants and particles in producer gases from biomass gasifiers. The procedures are designed to cover different gasifier types (updraft or downdraft fixed bed or fluidised bed gasifiers), operating conditions (0 - 900C and 0.6-60 bars) and concentration ranges (1 mg/m{sub n}{sup 3} to 300 g/m{sub n}{sup 3}). The Guideline describes a modular sampling train, and a set of procedures, which include: planning and preparation of the sampling, sampling and post-sampling, analysis, calculations, error analysis and reporting. The modular sampling train consists of 4 modules. Module 1 is a preconditioning module for isokinetic sampling and gas cooling. Module 2 is a particle collection module including a heated filter. Module 3 is a tar collection module with a gas quench ...
The following topics are dealt with: Detectors at COSY, major physics results at COSY, physics at external facilities, theoretical investigations, COSY operation and developments, preparations for FAIR, technical developments. (HSI)
The Decree specifies basic quality assurance requirements applicable to machines, their parts and materials, civil engineering structures, means for automated control of technological processes including hardware and software, and electricity supply systems related to nuclear safety of nuclear facilities, and stipulates binding procedures for the implementation of technical and organizational provisions associated with the quality of selected equipment to ensure nuclear safety of nuclear facilities. Safety classes are defined for selected equipment. Requirements laid on safety assurance documentation are specified, and requirements placed on safety assurance programmes, their preparation, finalization and approval are defined. Quality assurance requirements are also specified with respect to the designing, manufacture, construction, operation, repair, modification and decommissioning of nuclear ...
The Vortec Cyclone Melting System (CMS) facility; to be located at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, is designed to treat soil contaminated with low levels of heavy metals and radioactive elements, as well as organic waste. The primary components of Vortec`s CMS are a counter rotating vortex (CRV) reactor and cyclone melter. In the CMS process, granular glass forming ingredients and other feedstocks are introduced into the CRV reactor where the intense CRV mixing allows the mixture to achieve a stable reaction and rapid heating of the feedstock materials. Organic contaminants in the feedstock are effectively oxidized, and the inert inorganic solids are melted. The University of North Dakota Energy {ampersand} Environmental Research Center (EERC) has been contacted to help in the development of sampling plans and to conduct the sampling at the facility. This document is ...
Characterization of high temperature superconducting film and bulk samples has been carried out using 2 MeV [alpha]-particle Rutherford backscattering, 2.4 MeV proton elastic scattering, 2.4 MeV proton-induced x-ray emission, 9 MeV proton induced [gamma]-ray emission and 100 MeV iodine elastic recoil detection analysis techniques. The objective was to compare different ion beam based techniques for: (i) compositional analysis; and (ii) consistency of the results obtained for samplesprepared using similar preparation methodology. (author).
This Corrective Action Decision Document/Closure Report (CADD/CR) has been prepared for Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 409: Other Waste Sites, Tonopah Test Range (TTR), Nevada, in accordance with the Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order. Located near Area 3 on the TTR approximately 140 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada, CAU 409 is comprised of three Corrective Action Sites (CASs): CAS RG-24-001-RGCR, Battery Dump Site; CAS TA-53-001-TAB2, Septic Sludge Disposal Pit (referred to as Septic Sludge Disposal Pit No.1); CAS TA-53-002-TAB2, Septic Sludge Disposal Pit (referred to as Septic Sludge Disposal Pit No.2). This CADD/CR identifies and rationalizes the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Operations Office's (NNSA/NV's) recommendation that no corrective action is deemed necessary for CAU 409. The CADD/CR have been combined into one report based on ...
This report will be revised upon completion of current testing investigating the radiolytic stability of additional energetic materials and the analysis of tank farm samples for volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds.
New standardization techniques of samples in multielement instrumental neutron-activation analysis (INAA) of biological materials (BM) are considered. New methodical developments of samplepreparation techniques, BM tableting, creation of comparison standards and standardization of packing material are suggested. Correlated data on concentration of different elements in standard specimens-comparison standards are presented for mass INAA, that is: for phenol-formaldehyde resin-base and human blood-base synthetic standards. 7 refs.; 3 tabs.
This Maintenance Implementation Plan has been developed for maintenance functions associated with the Waste Sampling and Characterization Facility (WSCF). This plan is developed from the guidelines presented by Department of Energy (DOE) Order 4330.4A, Maintenance Management Program (DOE 1990), Chapter II. The objective of this plan is to provide baseline information for establishing and identifying WHC conformance programs and policies applicable to implementation of DOE order 4330.4A guidelines. In addition, this maintenance plan identifies the actions necessary to develop a cost-effective and efficient maintenance program at WSCF.
A superhydrophobic SiO2/nylon 6,6 nanocomposite coating was fabricated by a facile casting process. Compared with the intrinsically hydrophilic pure nylon 6,6, the as-prepared coating displayed a superhydrophobic property in the pH range from 1 to 14. It was also found that the resulting water contact angles of the as-prepared surface were always larger than 159?, but the sliding angles had an obvious decrease from about 33.4??1? as the content of SiO2 nanoparticles increased. In addition, a transition from the transitional superhydrophobic state between Wenzel?s and Cassie?s state to the Cassie?s state was observed.
The EMP consists of a Compliance Monitoring Sampling Program and a Supplemental monitoring Sampling Program. The Compliance Monitoring Sampling Program will be conducted during a summer and a winter Baseline periods during the Pre-Construction/Construction phases of the Project and during a summer and a winter period following the successful Startup and Operational phase of the completed Project. compliance monitoring consist of conducting all the sampling and observation programs associated with existing required Federal, State, and Local Regulations, Permits and Orders. These include air, water, and waste monitoring and OSHA and NESHAP monitoring. The Supplemental Monitoring Program will also be conducted during a summer and a winter Baseline periods during the Pre-Construction/Construction phases of the Demonstration Facility and during a summer and a winter period following the ...
The EMP consists of a Compliance Monitoring Sampling Program and a Supplemental monitoring Sampling Program. The Compliance Monitoring Sampling Program will be conducted during a summer and a winter Baseline periods during the Pre-Construction/Construction phases of the Project and during a summer and a winter period following the successful Startup and Operational phase of the completed Project. compliance monitoring consist of conducting all the sampling and observation programs associated with existing required Federal, State, and Local Regulations, Permits and Orders. These include air, water, and waste monitoring and OSHA and NESHAP monitoring. The Supplemental Monitoring Program will also be conducted during a summer and a winter Baseline periods during the Pre-Construction/Construction phases of the Demonstration Facility and during a summer and a winter period following the ...
The Mixed Waste Management Facility, or MWMF, has been proposed as a national testbed facility for the demonstration and evaluation of technologies that are alternatives to incineration for the treatment of mixed low-level waste. The facility design will enable evaluation of technologies at pilot scale, including all aspects of the processes, from receiving and feed preparation to the preparation of final forms for disposal. The MWMF will reduce the risk of deploying such technologies by addressing the following: (1) Engineering development and scale-up. (2) Process integration and activation of the treatment systems. (3) Permitting and stakeholder issues. In light of the severe financial constraints imposed on the DOE and federal programs, DOE/HQ requested a study to assess the cost benefit for the MWMF given other potential alternatives to meet waste treatment needs. The MVVMF ...
This study examined the atmospheric pollution created by some waste treatment and disposal facilities in the State of Kuwait. Air monitoring was conducted in a municipal wastewater treatment plant, an industrial wastewater treatment plant established in a petroleum refinery, and at a landfill site used for disposal of solid wastes. Such plants were selected as models for waste treatment and disposal facilities in the Arabian Gulf region and elsewhere. Air measurements were made over a period of 6 months and included levels of gaseous emissions as well as concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Samples of gas and bioaerosols were collected from ambient air surrounding the treatment facilities. The results obtained from this study have indicated the presence of VOCs and other gaseous pollutants such as methane, ammonia, and hydrogen sulphide in air surrounding the waste treatment and disposal ...
We have prepared high-quality, single crystals of SmB_6 under various conditions to improve sample quality. We have measured the resistivity and magnetic susceptibility from room to liquid-helium temperatures to sort samples. We have applied pulsed magnetic fields as high as 50 T at temperatures as low as 40 mK while measuring resistivity. Our samples are of higher quality than previously known. All solvent-grown, single-crystal samples should be etched to remove a surface conductivity. (orig.).
The iodinated oil lipiodol is commonly used as a carrier for in situ delivery of drugs or radioactivity to hepatic tumors. Recently, we reported a new kit formulation for high-activity labeling of lipiodol with the {beta}-emitting radionuclide Re-188. Since the whole preparation involves different steps and complex manipulations of high-activity samples, we describe here an automated synthesis module that allows the easy preparation of sterile and pyrogen-free samples of Re-188 lipiodol ready to be administered to the patient. Important advantages include the possibility to incorporate high Re-188 activity into the lipiodol hydrophobic phase and a sharp reduction of radiation exposure of the operator assisting the labelling procedure. Application of this modular reaction system could be also extended to the preparation of other Re-188 radiopharmaceuticals and to compound labelled ...
Microanalytical methods suitable for the determination of Fe, Cu in HT-29 (human colon adenocarcinoma) cells treated with different iron compounds (Fe(II) sulfate, Fe(III) chloride, Fe(III) citrate and Fe(III) transferrin) and cultured in medium supplemented or not with 10% (v/v) fetal calf serum (FCS) by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF) and simultaneous graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS) were developed. The developed TXRF method was also suitable for Zn determination in the samples. The main advantage of the proposed methods is the execution of all samplepreparation steps following incubation and prior to the elemental analysis in the same Eppendorf tubes. Samplepreparation was performed at microscale (115mL sample volume) with 65% nitric aci...
Abstract In the work, a rapid, simple and high-throughput samplepreparation method was developed for the determination of sulfonamide (SA) antibiotic residues in chicken breast muscle. The extraction and clean-up were online combined and up to 20 samples can be treated simultaneously in 6-min. The SAs were first extracted with acetonitrile under the action of microwave energy, and then the extract was directly introduced into the SPE column for on-line clean-up and concentration. Subsequently, the SAs eluted from the SPE column were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The precisions of extraction results of 20 samples were in the range of 4.9-7.4%. The limits of detection and quantification obtained were in the range of 2.4-3.6-ng/g and 8.6-11.3-ng/g for SAs, res...
The nuclear complex in Tarapur, Maharashtra is a multi facility nuclear site comprising of power reactors and research facilities. Each facility has independent liquid effluent discharge line to Arabian Sea. Experimental studies were conducted to evaluate dilution factors in the aquatic environment using liquid effluent releases as tracer from one of the facilities. 3H and 137Cs radioisotopes present in the routine releases were used as simulated tracer nuclides. The dilution factors(D.F) observed for tritium were in the range of 20-20000 in a distance range of 10 m to 1500 m respectively and for 137Cs the D.F. were in the range of 50 to 900 over a distance range of 10-200 m. The paper describes the analytical methodology and sampling scenarios and the results of dilution factors obtained for Tarapur aquatic environment. (author)
This hazard analysis (HA) has been prepared for the 300 Area N Reactor Fuel Fabrication and Storage Facility (Facility), in compliance with the requirements of Westinghouse Hanford Company (Westinghouse Hanford) controlled manual WHC-CM-4-46, Nonreactor Facility Safety Analysis Manual, and to the direction of WHC-IP-0690, Safety Analysis and Regulation Desk Instructions, (WHC 1992). An HA identifies potentially hazardous conditions in a facility and the associated potential accident scenarios. Unlike the Facility hazard classification documented in WHC-SD-NR-HC-004, Hazard Classification for 300 Area N Reactor Fuel Fabrication and Storage Facility, (Huang 1993), which is based on unmitigated consequences, credit is taken in an HA for administrative controls or engineered safety features planned or in place. The HA is the foundation for the ...
For each sample, one 30-gallon drum containing approximately 90 lb of coal at {minus}1/4 inch was designated for headspace oxygen analysis and coal quality monitoring at yearly intervals. Headspace oxygen analysis and retrieval of a 5-lb sample for coal analysis have begun. Headspace oxygen contents are shown in Table 1. Preparation and analysis of these samples for the second yearly quality evaluation is in progress. We have initiated a study of different means of storage in preventing sample deterioration and in maintaining an inert headspace atmosphere. The work was performed with support from the Penn State Cooperative Program in Coal Research. A run-of-mine sample of medium-volatile bituminous Lower Kittanning coal was collected as PSOC-1536 and promptly processed. Gieseler fluidity FSI, alkali extraction and preparation of petrographic ...
UV, first, second and third derivative spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of ezetimibe in pharmaceutical formulation. The solutions of standard and sample were prepared...Full Text Available
The variation in the superconducting properties of various binary alloys of transition metal-germanium systems was surveyed by studying sputter deposited samplesprepared under various conditions. The primary interest has been to study the formation of the stoichiometric A-15 compounds T_3Ge.
High resolution structural elucidation of macromolecular structure by solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance requires the preparation of uniformly aligned samples that are isotopically labeled. In...Full Text Available
Optimal sample handling techniques for tissue preparation and storage, RNA extraction and quantification, and target gene detection are crucial for reliable gene expression analysis. Methods...Full Text Available
Low molecular weight epoxy resin based on diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A was synthesized and mixed at constant percentages with natural rubber. The rubber epoxy system was cured with various types of curing agents such as ethylene diamine, maleic anhydride as well as the prepared resole phenol formaldehyde. A study of the photo-induced crosslinking of the prepared elastic adhesives and film samples was carried out by exposure to ultraviolet lamp (300 w) for 2 weeks at 20 deg. C. Samples containing ethylene diamine were cured at 25 + - 1 deg. C. for 24 h while samples containing maleic anhydride or resole phenol formaldehyde resins were thermally cured at 150-170 deg. C. for 10 min. Cured adhesive compositions were tested mechanically and physically and evaluated as wood adhesives. While hardness, chemical resistance as well as heat stability of the prepared ...
Polymerizing effects of high energy radiation has been found suitable for preparation of wood-polymer composites. In the present work after evaluating polymer products that have been obtained by irradiation method, wood-polymer composites have been prepared by in situ polymerization of vinyl acetate, acrylic acid and acrylic acid/styrene mixture using two samples of Iranian hardwoods, Beech and Hornbeam. These woods and their composites have been tested for their physical and mechanical properties. The results have shown that chemical bonding between polymer and the cell wall component lead to better strength properties in the composites. (author).
Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI) and the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) are promoting the joint project integrating both the Neutron Science Project (NSP) of JAERI and the Japan Hadron Facility Project (JHF) of KEK for comprehensive studies on basic science and technology using high-intensity proton accelerator. This document describes the joint project prepared by the Joint Project Team of JAERI and KEK to construct accelerators and research facilities necessary both for the NSP and the JHF at the site of JAERI Tokai Establishment. It was originally written in English and translated into Japanese with some corrections. (author)
The exchange of information and experience among Member Sates is an essential component of the IAEA action plan for addressing the Year 2000 problem. The objective is to enable Member States to identify any gaps in their own conversion programmes, benefit form the experience of others in developing remedial actions and establish the basis for future action to solve remaining problems. Experts in Year 2000 issues particularly those related to digital equipment prepared this report dealing with nuclear fuel cycle facilities
The feasibility was studied of the application of radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis to the identification and determination of chemical elements in the air. A description of the method is presented, the main stages of the analysis are discussed (samplepreparation and standards, selection of radioactive radiation sources, geometry of measurement and evaluation of results). The method is illustrated on the determination of elements Fe, Cu, Zn, Br, and Pb in air samples taken in the city of Prague. (author) 2 tabs., 2 figs., 14 refs.
The purpose of this prospective study was to compare two different milk preparation methods to assay for the presence of Mycobacterium bovis by PCR. Detection by a C18-carboxypropylbetaine...Full Text Available
A series of sputtered tungsten-carbon multilayer structures with periods ranging from 2 to 12 nm in the as-prepared state and after annealing at 500 degrees C for 4 hours has been studied with high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The evolution with annealing of the microstructure of these multilayers depends on their period.As-prepared structures appear predominantly amorphous from TEM imaging and diffraction. Annealing results in crystallization of the W-rich layers into WC in the larger period samples, and less complete or no crystallization in the smaller period samples. X-ray scattering reveals that annealing expands the period in a systematic way. The layers remain remarkably well-defined after annealing under these conditions.
The adsorption properties of four samples of the #alpha#-modification of boron nitride (#alpha#-BN) were investigated by the gas-chromatographic method. According to the electron microscopy data, the #alpha#-BN particles possess the shape of thin plates. An #alpha#-BN sampleprepared from magnesium polyboride, is the most uniform adsorbent. For a series of n-alkanes, benzene, and alkyl benzenes, by testing the #alpha#-BN samples one has obtained the retained volumes (Henry constants) and the values of the differential adsorption heat, which are close to those of the surface zero filling. These thermodynamic characteristics of adsorption have shown that the #alpha#-BN, line the graphitized thermal carbon black, is not a specific adsorbent.
This paper describes the modeling of horizontal steam generator with the TRACE code and calculation results of a loss-of-feedwater (LOF-10) experiment at the PACTEL facility. Parallel Channel Test Loop (PACTEL) is an integral test facility for a VVER-440 type nuclear reactor. The main objectives were to prepare a simulation model for its horizontal steam generator with the TRACE thermal hydraulic code and assess different modeling options of the code. PACTEL experiment LOF-10 was chosen for this assessment. The calculation results showed that TRACE is capable in simulating horizontal steam generator behavior both in steady state and during loss-of-feedwater transient. The phenomenon of heat transfer from primary to secondary side, steam superheating and flow reversal in the lowest heat exc...
Objectives of the program are to understand the mechanisms of coal liquefaction, to determine the role of catalysts in the direct conversion of coal to liquids, to determine the mechanism of catalyst deactivation and to explore slurry phase catalyst systems. Specific projects include: short-contact time coal liquefaction, mineral matter effects and catalyst studies. During this period, work was performed on: (1) the stability, at reaction temperature, of a recycle solvent obtained from the Lummus Two Stage Liquefaction facility, (2) reactions of preasphaltenes and asphaltenes prepared under various reaction severities, (3) the evaluation of the catalyst level detector installed at the H-Coal facility, (4) the characterization of oil soluble metal compounds with respect to hydrogenation activity, and (5) characterization, deactivation and regeneration of catalysts obtained from both the H-Coal and Lummus ...
This study investigates spent fuel cask handling experience at existing nuclear facilities to determine appropriate cask decontamination and maintenance operations at the potential Yucca Mountain repository. These operations are categorized as either routine or nonroutine. Routine cask decontamination and maintenance tasks are performed in the cask preparation area at the repository. Casks are taken offline to a separate cask maintenance area for major nonroutine tasks. The study develops conceptual designs of the cask preparation area and cask maintenance area. The functions, layouts, and major features of these areas are also described.
This document defines analytical services the Waste Sampling and Characterization Facility (WSCF) shall provide the Environmental Compliance Program (ECP) throughout calendar year (CY) 2000. Two organizations within ECP are responsible for monitoring liquid and gaseous effluents and the environment immediately around facilities that contain or may contain radioactive and hazardous materials. Monitoring & Reporting (M&R), of Fluor Hanford Environmental Services, is responsible for effluent monitoring data, and Environmental Monitoring & Investigations (EMI), of Waste Management Technical Services, Inc., for near-facility environmental monitoring data. These organizations serve numerous projects, some of which are managed by other companies such as CH2M HILL and Bechtel Hanford, Inc. Monitoring data are collected and evaluated to determine their state of compliance with applicable federal ...
In this study, thermoluminescence (TL) dating of archaeological artefacts from Geboltskirchen (Upper Austria) and Haselbach (Lower Austria) has been carried out. To receive a comparison with TL dating, all samples have been investigated additionally by means of infrared-stimulated luminescence (IRSL) analysis. The samples were prepared according to the common fine-grain technique. All important dating parameters such as potassium concentration, thorium/uranium ratio, moisture content, etc. were determined. A methodology for IRSL was developed, describing all steps of the procedure from samplepreparation to measurement for any kind of ceramic artefacts. Dating results from TL and IRSL investigations of ancient pottery from Geboltskirchen and Haselbach will be discussed.
Worker exposures to N-nitroso compounds were evaluated at B.F. Goodrich Company, Woodburn, Indiana on December 12, 1979. Personal and area air samples were collected and analyzed by gas-chromatography and thermal-energy-analysis methods. All of the samples contained N-nitrosomorpholine (NMOR) and five samples also contained N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The amount of NMOR ranged from 0.85 to 3.7 micrograms per cubic meter (micrograms/cu m) for area air samples and 0.63 to 1.8 micrograms/cu m for personal samples. NDMA concentrations ranged from undetectable to 1.8 microgram/cu m for area samples and undetectable to 0.09 micrograms/cu m for personal samples. The authors note that no exposure standards exist for NDMA or NMOR but both are listed as potential human carcinogens. They suggest that the B.F. Goodrich Company characterize ...
The global effect of activation cross-section uncertainties on calculated radiological quantities is investigated for the first time using a methodology based on Monte Carlo random sampling. The method is applied to the calculation of the uncertainty in the contact dose rate from the gunite shielding of the National Ignition Facility chamber after 30 yr of pulsed irradiation. Some critical cross section contributing significantly to the overall uncertainty are identified. By a reasonable reduction of the uncertainty in those cross sections, the accuracy in the calculated total contact dose rate is greatly improved.
LiFePO{sub 4} cathode materials with distinct particle sizes were prepared by a planetary ball-milling method. The effects of particle size on the morphology, thermal stability and electrochemical performance of LiFePO{sub 4} cathode materials were investigated. The ball-milling method decreased particle size, thereby reducing the length of diffusion and improving the reversibility of the lithium ion intercalation/deintercalation. It is worth noting that the small particle sampleprepared using malonic acid as a carbon source achieved a high capacity of 161 mAh g{sup -1} at a 0.1 C rate and had a very flat capacity curve during the early 50 cycles. However, the big particle samples ({proportional_to}400 nm) decayed more dramatically in capacity than the small particle size samples ({proportional_to}200 nm) at high current densities. The improvement in electrode performance was ...
Samplesprepared using the focused ion beam (FIB) inevitably contain the surface damage induced by energetic Ga"+ ions. An effective method of removing the surface damage is demonstrated using a plasma cleaner, a device which is widely used to minimize the surface contamination in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Surface bombardment with low-energy Ar"+ ions was induced by biasing the sample immersed in the plasma source, so as to etch off the surface materials. The etch rates of SiO_2, measured with a bias voltage of 100-300 V, were found to vary linearly with both the time and bias and were able to be controlled from 1.4 to 9 nm/min. The removal of the Ga residue was confirmed using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after the plasma processing of the FIB-preparedsample. When the FIB-preparedsample was processed via ...
This executive summary presents an overview of the investigations, findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the Long Island Regional Planning Board (LIRPB) study of the Potential for Beneficial Use of Waste-to-Energy Facility Ash. The full report consists of the following volumes: Executive Summary; Volume 1: Long Island Ash Management Status; Volume 2: Sampling and Testing Procedures; Volume 3: Environmental Properties; Volume 4: Engineering Properties; Volume 5: Environmental Assessment; Volume 6: Engineering and Economic Evaluation; and Volume 7: Legal and Institutional Issues. Volumes one through seven are briefly summarized in this executive summary with the exception of Volume 2 of the report, which serves as the documentation of the sampling conditions and testing methods used in measuring chemical and physical properties of the ash tested. The study investigated the feasibility of the use of incinerator ash as ...
A novel single-step synthetic method for the preparation of anatase N-doped TiO"2 nanocrystalline at low temperature has been devoleped. The N-doped anatase TiO"2 nanoparticles were synthesized by sonication of the solution of tetraisopropyl titanium and urea in water and isopropyl alcohol at 80^oC for 150min. The as-preparedsample was characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-vis absorption spectrum. The product structure depends on the reaction temperature and reaction time. The photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared photocatalyst was evaluated via the photodegradation of an azo dye direct sky blue 5B. The results show that the N-doped TiO"2 nanocrystalline prepared via sonication exhibit an excellent photocatalytic...
The neutron capture cross-section of {sup 234}U has been measured for energies from thermal up to the keV region in the neutron time-of-flight facility n-TOF, based on a spallation source located at CERN. A 4{pi} BaF{sub 2} array composed of 40 crystals, placed at a distance of 184.9 m from the neutron source, was employed as a total absorption calorimeter (TAC) for detection of the prompt {gamma}-ray cascade from capture events in the sample. This text describes the experimental setup, all necessary steps followed during the data analysis procedure. Results are presented in the form of R-matrix resonance parameters from fits with the SAMMY code and compared to the evaluated data of Endf in the relevant energy region, indicating the good performance of the n-TOF facility and the TAC. (authors)
This Maintenance Implementation Plan (MIP) is written to satisfy the requirements of the US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 4330.4B, Maintenance Management Program that specifies the general policy and objectives for the establishment of the DOE controlled maintenance programs. These programs provide for the management and performance of cost effective maintenance and repair of the DOE property, which includes facilities. This document outlines maintenance activities associated with the facilities operated by Waste Management Hanford, Inc. (WMH). The objective of this MIP is to provide baseline information for the control and execution of WMH Facility Maintenance activities relative to the requirements of Order 4330.4B, assessment of the WMH maintenance programs, and actions necessary to maintain compliance with the Order. Section 2.0 summarizes the history, mission and description of the WMH ...
In the spring of 2002, the Department of Energy provided an initial 1-year grant to the Bureau of Economic Geology (BEG) at The University of Texas at Austin (UT). The grant covered the one-year operational expenses of a worldclass core and cuttings facility located in Houston, Texas, that BP America donated to the BEG. The DOE investment of $300,000, matched by a $75,000 UT contribution, provided critical first-year funds that were heavily leveraged by the BP gift of $7.0 million in facilities and cash. DOE also provided a one-month extension and grant of $30,000 for the month of May 2003. A 5-year plan to grow a permanent endowment in order to manage the facility in perpetuity is well under way and on schedule. The facility, named the Houston Research Center, represents an ideal model for a strong Federal, university, and private partnership to accomplish a national good. This report summarizes the ...
This document describes the geology and hydrogeology at the former Advanced Coal Liquefaction Research and Development (ACLR&D) facility in Wilsonville, Alabama. The work was conducted by personnel from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Grand Junction office (ORNL/GJ) for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Pittsburgh Energy Technology Center (PETC). Characterization information was requested by PETC to provide baseline environmental information for use in evaluating needs and in subsequent decision-making for further actions associated with the closeout of facility operations. The hydrogeologic conceptual model presented in this report provides significant insight regarding the potential for contaminant migration from the ACLR&D facility and may be useful during other characterization work in the region. The ACLR&D facility is no longer operational and has been dismantled. The site was ...
Samples of air-dust-concentration- and air-dust-deposit measurements were digested by a standardized wet digestion procedure and the amounts of substances in the dust according to class I TA Luft by Atomic Emission Spectroscopy with Inductively Coupled Plasma (AES-ICP). The characteristic values for procedures according to VDI 2449, sheet 1, were determined for lead, vanadium, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel and zinc. By partial automatic control of the digestion procedure the personel expenditure of work could be reduced by a factor 13. Dust filter samples were analysed without samplepreparation by evaporating the material with a solid state laser. The absolute detection limit was between 1 and 100 ng/cm"2 for the elements arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, mercury, antimony, selen and thallium. For sampling by means of the Beta-Staubmeter the relative detection limits for the ...
This journal includes all formal reports in the NUREG series prepared by the NRC staff and contractors, as well as proceedings of conferences and workshops. The entries in the compilation are indexed for access by title and abstract, contractor report number, personal author, subject, NRC organization, contractor, and licensed facility.
This journal includes all formal reports in the NUREG series prepared by the NRC staff and contractors, as well as proceedings of conferences and workshops. The entries in the compilation are indexed for access by title and abstract, contractor report number, personal author, subject, NRC organization, contractor, and licensed facility.
Task 13 (a) was approved on December 21, 2001. Minimal work was performed for the quarter during the approval process. Laboratory and equipment facilities have been maintained in anticipation of the work to be done. The PI communicated with DOE and Estonia researchers during this period, providing advice and direction for the startup of the Estonia research, and preparing a Draft Teaming Agreement. The PI participated in an industrial liaison meeting with DOE personnel. This meeting is expected to lead to formal cooperation between industry and government.
The Savannah River Site (SRS), one of several U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) facilities, produces nuclear materials for national defense and for other government and civilian uses. SRS ceased production of defense materials in 1988, and the site's main activities now involve waste management and environmental restoration. These programs have generated extensive effluent monitoring and environmental surveillance programs for the Environmental Monitoring Section (EMS), which performs #approx#105,000 radiological analyses on 30,000 samples a year. Gamma spectroscopy is performed on an estimated 10,000 samples annually. This report describes a program to develop and improve the EMS system.
The purpose of the Isotopes Facilities Deactivation Project (IFDP) is to place former isotopes production facilities at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in a safe, stable, and environmentally sound condition; suitable for an extended period of minimum surveillance and maintenance (S&M) and as quickly and economical as possible. Implementation and completion of the deactivation project will further reduce the risks to the environment and to public safety and health. Furthermore, completion of the project will result in significant S&M cost savings in future years. The IFDP work plan defines the project schedule, the cost estimate, and the technical approach for the project. A companion document, the IFDP management plan, has been prepared to document the project objectives, define organizational relationships and responsibilities, and outline the management control systems to be employed in the management of the ...
This report describes a beneficiation facility designed to process 1620 tons per day of run-of-mine Alabama oil shale containing 12.7 gallons of kerogen per ton of ore (based on Fischer Assay). The beneficiation facility will produce briquettes of oil shale concentrate containing 34.1 gallons of kerogen per ton (based on Fischer Assay). The beneficiation facility will produce briquettes of oil shale concentrate containing 34.1 gallons of kerogen per ton (based on Fischer Assay) suitable for feed to a hydroretort oil extraction facility of nominally 20,000 barrels per day capacity. The beneficiation plant design prepared includes the operations of crushing, grinding, flotation, thickening, filtering, drying, briquetting, conveying and tailings empoundment. A complete oil shale beneficiation plant is described including all anticipated ancillary facilities. For ...
An average of 9 million gallons per day of oil-contaminated ballast water off loaded from tankers are treated at the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company Ballast Water Treatment Facility at the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in Port Valdez, Alaska. This paper focuses on the results of 2 Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council monitoring programs which detail changes in the chemical composition of treated ballast water as it moves from tankers through the facility and subsequently traces the effluent hydrocarbons into the receiving environment of Port Valdez. The treatment facility involves gravity separation tanks, dissolved air flotation cells and biological treatment tanks. Effluent containing traces of volatile aromatics, including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes, low levels of oil, saturated hydrocarbons and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is being continuously discharged to Port ...
The aim of a joint effort by different research teams was to provide an improved procedure for enzyme activity profiling of field-sampled ectomycorrhizae, including recommendations on the best conditions and maximum duration for storage of ectomycorrhizal samples. A more simplified and efficient protocol compared to formerly published procedures was achieved by using manufactured 96-filter plates in combination with a vacuum manifold and by optimizing incubation times. Major improvements were achieved by performing the series of eight enzyme assays with a single series of root samples instead of two series, reducing the time needed for samplepreparation, minimizing error-prone steps such as pipetting and morphotyping, and facilitating subsequent DNA analyses due to the reduced sequencing ...
The Department of Energy (DOE) has prepared an environmental assessment (EA), DOE/EA-0804, for the proposed replacement of a deteriorated brine disposal pipeline from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) Bryan Mound storage facility in Brazoria County, Texas, into the Gulf of Mexico. In addition, the ocean discharge outfall would be moved shoreward by locating the brine diffuser at the end of the pipeline 3.5 miles offshore at a minimum depth of 30 feet. The action would occur in a floodplain and wetlands; therefore, a floodplain/wetlands assessment has been prepared in conjunction with this EA. Based on the analyses in the EA, DOE has determined that the proposed action is not a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 (42 USC. 4321, et seg.). Therefore, the preparation of an ...
The world fusion program has advanced to the stage where it is appropriate to construct a number of devices for the purpose of burning DT fuel. In these next-generation experiments, the expected flux and fluence of 14 MeV neutrons and associated gamma rays will pose a significant challenge to the operation and diagnostics of the fusion device. Radiation effects include structural damage to materials such as vacuum windows and seals, modifications to electrical properties such as electrical conductivity and dielectric strength and impaired optical properties such as reduced transparency and luminescence of windows and fiber optics during irradiation. In preparation for construction and operation of these new facilities, the fusion diagnostics community needs to work with materials scientists to develop a better understanding of radiation effects, and to undertake a testing program aimed at developing workable solutions for this multi-faceted ...
This report summarizes the activities and major accomplishments for the Idaho National Laboratory Advanced Radiotherapy Research Program for calendar year 2004. Topics covered include boron analysis in biological samples, computational dosimetry and treatment planning software development, medical neutron source development and characterization, and collaborative dosimetry studies at the RA-1 facility in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Corrosion resistance of Cu-W system condensates in tap water was studies. It is shown that with an increase in W concentration in the condensates of the Cu-W system their corrosion in tap water enhances. In the material designated for power supply facilities the optimal tungsten content is up to 6%. Owing to formation of oxide film on the surface of the samples corrosion is stabilitized 40 h after the test start.
Dislocation priming measurements were performed in the kHz range in ASARCO copper. The samples and irradiation facilities are constructed so as to allow successive irradiation of samples both with electrons and gamma rays. The gamma rays were produced by stopping 2.8-MeV electrons in a gold target. The change of the type of irradiation could be achieved without any handling of the sample. Thus it is possible to detect rather small differences between the two types of irradiation. Recovery experiments at 400 deg K after 75 deg K irradiation and pinning rates during irradiation at 400 deg K and 75 deg K were made. (GE)
In this work, we report the preparation of lead titanate (PT) nanoceramics (with an average grain size of ~200nm in diameter) by using hydrothermal PT nanoparticles as start materials and characterized the dielectric and ferroelectric properties. The dielectric constant of the ceramic was found to be ~180 (at 1kHz) at room temperature and reached a maximum value of 8330 at ~490^oC, suggesting that the Curie temperature of the nanoceramics is consistent with the known value of PT crystals. Ferroelectric domains and hysteresis loops were obtained through piezoelectric force microscopy measurements, which provide direct and clear evidence for the ferroelectricity in the nanoceramic samples.
The German-Russian project that is part of the G8 initiative on Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction focuses on the speedy construction of a land-based interim storage facility for nuclear submarine reactor compartments at Sayda Bay near Murmansk. This project includes the required infrastructure facilities for long-term storage of about 150 reactor compartments for a period of about 70 years. The interim storage facility is a precondition for effective activities of decommissioning and dismantlement of almost all nuclear-powered submarines of the Russian Northern Fleet. The project also includes the establishment of a computer-assisted waste monitoring system. In addition, the project involves clearing Sayda Bay of other shipwrecks of the Russian navy. On the German side the project is carried out by the Energiewerke Nord GmbH (EWN) on behalf of the Federal Ministry of ...
Mesporous anatase-phase TiO(2) hollow spheres with high photocatalytic activity were prepared by hydrothermal treatment and self-transformation of amorphous TiO(2) solid spheres in an NH(4)F aqueous solution. The preparedsamples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, N(2) adsorption-desorption isotherms and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photocatalytic oxidation decomposition of acetone in air under UV irradiation. It is found that F(-) plays an essential role in the formation of TiO(2) hollow spheres. F(-) not only induces the hollowing of TiO(2) solid spheres, but also promotes the crystallization of anatase TiO(2) nanocrystals. A possible formation mechanism for the TiO(2) hollow spheres by localized Ostwald ripening or chemically induced self-transformation is proposed based on the ...
Fe-doped TiO2 hollow spheres (Fe-THs) were synthesized by sol?gel process using carbon spheres as templates. The preparedsamples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV?vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS), N2 adsorption?desorption isotherms, Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and Photoluminescence emission spectroscopy (PL). UV?vis spectra showed that Fe3+ doping could extend the absorption edge to the visible region. EPR spectra showed that Fe3+ was incorporated into the crystal lattice of TiO2, which could inhibit the recombination of photo-induced electron?hole pairs and improve the photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic activities of the preparedsamples were evaluated for the degradation of dye Reactive Brillia...
The growth of silver chloride nanoparticles on ancient textile was achieved by sequential dipping steps in alternating bath of potassium chloride and silver nitrate under ultrasound irradiation. The effect of ultrasound irradiation and sequential dipping steps in growth of the AgCl nanoparticles has been studied. These systems depicted a decrease in the particles size accompanying a decrease in the sequential dipping steps. The samples were characterized with powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy. XRD analyses indicated that the prepared AgCl nanoparticles on fiber were crystalline. The textile samples containing AgCl nanoparticles were tested for their antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli and were found to possess significant antibacterial activity.
Polyester WPC (wood-polymer composite) systems are one of the promising materials for multiple uses increasing the mechanical properties, provided that their dimensional stability can be improved. Possibility was pursued for the improvement in the dimensional stability of the polyester WPC systems prepared by electron beam irradiation. The impregnation of the mixture of polyester and monomer into both oven-dried beech veneers and preswollen wood was followed by mutual irradiation process. Polymerization was carried out at total dosage of 6 Mrad to the respective surfaces of samples by an electron beam accelerator, and the reaction was completed by heating at 80 deg C for 24 hr. The dimensions of the samples were measured primarily in the tangential direction, and their dynamic modulus and loss modulus were measured by a Rheovibron DDV-2 and the vibrating reed method. The results and the discussion are given for the reaction ...
Polyester WPC (wood-polymer composite) systems are one of the promising materials for multiple uses increasing the mechanical properties, provided that their dimensional stability can be improved. Possibility was pursued for the improvement in the dimensional stability of the polyester WPC systems prepared by electron beam irradiation. The impregnation of the mixture of polyester and monomer into both oven-dried beech veneers and preswollen wood was followed by mutual irradiation process. Polymerization was carried out at total dosage of 6 Mrad to the respective surfaces of samples by an electron beam accelerator, and the reaction was completed by heating at 80 deg C for 24 hr. The dimensions of the samples were measured primarily in the tangential direction, and their dynamic modulus and loss modulus were measured by a Rheovibron DDV-2 and the vibrating reed method. The results and the discussion are given for the reaction ...
Cassava chips (cassava balls, and cassava pellets) are derived cassava products traditionally produced by farmers in sub-Saharan Africa following fermentation, and drying of fresh roots of cassava, and are widely consumed in Cameroon. Once produced, this food commodity can be stored for more than two months and contaminated by a wide array of harmful microbes. In order to assess persistence of toxigenic fungi in cassava chips, aflatoxin-producing fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus nomius, and Aspergillus parasiticus) and aflatoxins were contrasted at regular intervals in home-stored cassava chips collected in two locations of southern Cameroon throughout a two-month monitoring period. Three hundred and forty-six isolates of aflatoxin-producing fungi were found to be associated with all samples. A. flavus contaminated more samples in both types of chips (267 isolates in 53 samples), followed by A. nomius (58 isolates in ...
A programme has been initiated by the Coordinating Office for Monitoring of enhanced natural radioactivity of the Federal Office for Radiation Protection to investigate different kinds of sample materials with enhanced naturally occurring radioactivity (NORM) such as scales from oilfield and naturally gasfield pipes, blast furnace sludge and sinter dust from the production of pig iron, as well as bauxit and red mud from the production of aluminium oxide. The aim of these investigations is to find proper preparation and measuring methods which allow, in particular, a sample treatment with optimised effort combined with a reliable determination of the specific activities of the dominating radionuclides. Of particular interest is the method of gamma-ray spectrometry, since this method has been used for most of our studies of sample materials. Due to different compositions of calibration and ...
This report describes the cost, performance, and other key characteristics of an innovative technology for determining the presence or absence, and measuring the concentration, of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in groundwater and soil, and in gaseous remediation process streams at hazardous waste sites. This new technology is Direct Sampling Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry (DSITMS). DSITMS introduces sample materials directly into an ion trap mass spectrometer by means of a very simple interface, such as a capillary restrictor or a polymer membrane. There is typically very little, if any, samplepreparation and no chromatographic separation of the sample constituents. This means that the response of the instrument to the analytes or contaminants in a sample is nearly instantaneous, and that analytical methods based on ...
In many facilities, energy management is simply a matter of managing the energy required for lighting and space conditioning. In many others, however, energy management is much more complex and involves large motors and controls, industrial insulation, complex combustion monitoring, unique steam distribution problems, significant amounts of waste heat, etc. Typical facilities offering large energy management opportunities include industrial facilities, large office and commercial operations, government institutions such as schools, hospitals and prisons. Such facilities generally have specialized industrial, commercial or institutional processes that incorporate many of the concepts covered in other chapters. These processes require thorough analytical evaluations to determine the appropriate energy-saving measures. This chapter provides some examples. In this chapter the authors present a suggested ...
The ElectroScan environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) is one of the most exciting new developments in the field of Electron Microscopy. The ESEM differs from conventional Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) by being able to examine materials including liquids and oils in their natural state with no prior samplepreparation. Accessory equipment, cooling, heating and manipulating devices allow the manipulation of samples thus making it possible for the first time to image dynamic processes such as wetting, drying, absorption, corrosion, melting, crystallisation, curing and fracturing at high magnification. Papers concerning the historical development of the ESEM are given in a bibliography at the end of this paper. 24 refs., 18 figs.
The adsorption properties of four samples of ..cap alpha..-BN were studied by means of gas chromatography. The particles of ..cap alpha..-BN particles, according to data obtained by electron microscopy, have the shape of thin platelets. A sample of ..cap alpha..-BN prepared from magnesium polyboride was found to be the most nearly homogeneous adsorbent. For a number of n-alkanes, benzene, and alkylbenzenes, data have been obtained on the retention volumes (Henry constants) and the differential heats of adsorption for surface coverages approaching zero. These thermodynamic data on the adsorption showed that ..cap alpha..-BN, like graphitized thermal carbon black, is a nonspecific adsorbent.
This project was supported through ERDA to demonstrate that the temporal distribution of tritium can be documented by the analysis of bound hydrogen in annual tree-ring samples. The project focuses on two sample locations at the Savannah River Site (SRS), a nuclear material production facility located in Aiken, SC. The SRS provided samples of cross-sections from a single tree that were to be pooled together for analysis. Annual tree-rings were identified in each cross-section sample and separated for the period 1954 to 1993. These annual samples were ground and chemically treated to separate the hollocellulose fraction of the wood, then subsequently combusted and the resulting water counting using low-level liquid scintillation counting equipment. Additionally, the ground annual tree-rings were gamma-counted to determine any temporal variation in radionuclide ...
As part of the general QC/QA management of the k_0-standardization, three types of 'SMELS' (synthetic multi-element standards) are being developed to check the performance of k_0-NAA when implemented in a laboratory. Phenol-formaldehyde resin is proposed in this paper as the matrix of choice. Based on previous work, this material could be prepared with sufficient purity so as to make interferences with the spiking elements negligible. The matrix was found to be adequately resistant towards high neutron flux irradiation. A selection was made of compounds, soluble in ethyl alcohol, for spiking the prepolymer ethanolic solution with the elements of interest. Finally, some prototypes were prepared and a satisfactory homogeneity of the spiked elements was found for 50 mg sample intake.
The starting material for two certified and one candidate reference material was obtained from dried grass specially cultivated on a selected and well prepared soil. The Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) of the Commission of the European Communities produced two certified reference materials (CRM`s) from this dried grass: a rye grass material (CRM 281) certified in 1988 for the quality control of trace and toxic element analyses and a hay powder material (CRM 129) certified in 1989 for monitoring trace and minor elements. A fraction of the dried grass was used in 1993 for the preparation of a hay powder with a particle size of < 63 {mu}m using newly developed grinding techniques. This paper compares the production methods of these three materials and the obtained particle size distribution of the powders. The analytical evaluation of these production methods was carried out by solid sampling Zeeman atomic absorption ...
A performance assessment of the operating Solid Waste Storage Area 6 (SWSA 6) facility for the disposal of low-level radioactive waste at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been prepared to provide the technical basis for demonstrating compliance with the performance objectives of DOE Order 5820.2A, Chapter 111.2 An analysis of the uncertainty incorporated into the assessment was performed which addressed the quantitative uncertainty in the data used by the models, the subjective uncertainty associated with the models used for assessing performance of the disposal facility and site, and the uncertainty in the models used for estimating dose and human exposure. The results of the uncertainty analysis were used to interpret results and to formulate conclusions about the performance assessment. This paper discusses the approach taken in analyzing the uncertainty in the performance assessment and the role of uncertainty in ...
A free-electron laser (FEL) user facility is discussed. The FEL, which will be operated as an oscillator, will be driven by the electron beam of the racetrack microtron (RTM) that is nearing completion. Variation of the electron kinetic energy from 17 MeV to 185 MeV will permit the FEL wavelength to be tuned from 200 nm to 10 #mu#m. Performance will be enhanced by the high brightness, low energy spread, and continuous pulse nature of the RTM electron beam. The authors are designing a new injector to increase the peak current of the RTM. A 3.6-m undulator is under construction, and the 9-m optical cavity is under design. The FEL will emit a continuous train of 3-ps pulses at 66 MHz with an average power of 10--200 W, depending on the wavelength, and a peak power of up to several hundred kW. An experimental area is being prepared with up to five stations for research using the FEL beam.
A Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) related to the licensing of Envirocare of Utah, Inc.`s proposed disposal facility in Tooele county, Utah (Docket No. 40-8989) for byproduct material as defined in Section 11e.(2) of the Atomic Energy Act, as amended, has been prepared by the Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards. This statement describes and evaluates the purpose of and need for the proposed action, the alternatives considered, and the environmental consequences of the proposed action. The NRC has concluded that the proposed action evaluated under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and 10 CFR Part 51, is to permit the applicant to proceed with the project as described in this Statement.
The Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) core loading during its ninth operating cycle was significantly different from that of previous cycles because of the presence of the Core Demonstration Experiment (CDE). The CDE consists of a number of axially blanketed fuel assemblies and internal blankets prototypic of advanced oxide cores in Liquid Metal Reactors (LMR). In preparation for the Cycle 9 reload design effort, a careful assessment of control rod worth and reactivity calculations for Cycles 1 through 8 was made. The goal of this study was to establish calculational biases and reduce uncertainties factored into the reload design calculations. These analyses helped assure that the operational objectives for Cycle 9 were met.
The Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) core loading during its ninth operating cycle was significantly different from that of previous cycles because of the presence of the Core Demonstration Experiment (CDE). The CDE consists of a number of axially blanketed fuel assemblies and internal blankets prototypic of advanced oxide cores in Liquid Metal Reactors (LMR). In preparation for the Cycle 9 reload design effort, a careful assessment of control rod worth and reactivity calculations for Cycles 1 through 8 was made. The goal of this study was to establish calculational biases and reduce uncertainties factored into the reload design calculations. These analyses helped assure that the operational objectives for Cycle 9 were met.
An on-going inter-comparison programme which is focused on assessing and establishing consensus protocols to be applied in the identification, selection and sub-sampling of materials for subsequent "1"4C analysis is described. The outcome of the programme will provide a detailed quantification of the uncertainties associated with "1"4C measurements including the issues of accuracy and precision. Such projects have become recognised as a fundamental aspect of continuing laboratory quality assurance schemes, providing a mechanism for the harmonisation of measurements and for demonstrating the traceability of results. The design of this study and its rationale are described. In summary, a suite of core samples has been defined which will be made available to both AMS and radiometric laboratories. These core materials are representative of routinely dated material and their ages span the full range of the applied "1"4C time-scale. Two of the ...
The feasibility study was conducted on a model project in Vietnam, aimed at solving the environmental pollution problems resulting from use of coal by demonstrating and disseminating the Japan's environmental technologies in the Southeast Asian countries. The feasibility study was conducted for the Cua Ong Coal Preparation Enterprise, which has the largest coal preparation capacity in Vietnam and port facilities. It is treating raw coal from 10 coal mines for classification and preparation, and shipping coal of various types that meet the standards for domestic use and export. The survey results point out that unrecovered coal remains in waste water discharged from the coal preparation plants to pollute the sea area, and that quantity of the refuse increases because of the unrecovered coal it contains. The environmental technologies needed to introduce include modification ...
Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is an important tool of dimension reduction especially when the dimension (or the number of variables) is very high. Asymptotic studies where the sample size is fixed, and the dimension grows [i.e., High Dimension, Low Sample Size (HDLSS)] are becoming increasingly relevant. We investigate the asymptotic behavior of the Principal Component (PC) directions. HDLSS asymptotics are used to study consistency, strong inconsistency and subspace consistency. We show that if the first few eigenvalues of a population covariance matrix are large enough compared to the others, then the corresponding estimated PC directions are consistent or converge to the appropriate subspace (subspace consistency) and most other PC directions are strongly inconsistent. Broad sets of sufficient conditions for each of these cases are specified and the main theorem gives a catalogue of possible combinations. In ...
Ferrite of system, namely Ni_1_-_xZn_xFe_2O_4 with x = (0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0), have been prepared by solid state reaction to investigate the effect of gamma rays irradiations using Co"6"0 source on the cation distribution, structural and magnetic properties. The unirradiated and irradiated samples were then subjected to characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, magnetization and AC susceptibility. The results of these characterizations are found to be different for irradiated from that of the pristine sample. The modifications in respect of irradiated samples are explained in terms of the ion-induced disorder. The important result of #gamma#-irradiation on the cation distribution, structural and magnetic properties is the change of ratio Fe"2"+/Fe"3"+. Possible reasons on the results are proposed.
In Tarapur Atomic Power Station unit-3 and 4, which is 540 MWe pressurized heavy water reactor, tritium is produced in primary heat transport system and moderator system. Tritium is a major contributor to the internal dose. Internal dose contributes about 30% of the collective dose. Internal dose monitoring and its control are important to control the collective dose. Estimation of internal dose is done by analysis of bioassay samples of radiation workers. In a month, about 7000 bioassay samples are analysed for the internal dose assessment during normal operation, and about 12000 during the biennial shut down of the reactor. To enhance the samplepreparation and counting performance, minimize the entry errors and reduce the processing time, barcode based label generation system was developed for the internal dose monitoring. This paper discusses about the use of barcode system in the internal dose ...
Novel fluoroalkyl end-capped vinyltrimethoxysilane oligomeric nanoparticles were prepared by the hydrolysis of the corresponding oligomer under alkaline conditions. The size of fluorinated nanoparticles thus obtained is of submicrometer levels and is not sensitive to the refractive indices of a variety of solvents; however, the turbidity of the dispersed fluorinated nanoparticles is extremely sensitive to the refractive indices of these solvents. In particular, the solvents of which the refractive indices are from 1.378 to 1.408 were found to afford the transparent colorless dispersed particle solutions. More interestingly, the modified glass surface treated with fluorinated nanoparticles exhibited a completely superhydrophobic characteristic (a water contact angle: 180?) with a nonwetting...
This Energy Savings Opportunity Survey (ESOS) is to identify Energy Conservation Opportunities (ECO`s) which are practical and economical for the reduction of energy consumption in accordance with the Army Facilities Energy Plan. The work to be performed under this project includes: (A) Coordinating with the on-going and proposed related projects. (B) Conducting a limited site survey required to identify applicable ECO`s and obtaining necessary data to evaluate the ECO`s. (C) Evaluating applicable ECO`s to determine their feasibility in accordance with current criteria. (D) Preparing programming and implementation documents for the recommended ECO`s. and (E) Preparing a comprehensive report to present the work performed including energy analysis, the results, and recommendations.
The DOE-Idaho Operations Office (DOE-ID) has prepared an environmental assessment (EA) on the replacement of the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory Health Physics Instrumentation Laboratory at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL). The purpose of this project is to replace the existing Health Physics Instrumentation Laboratory (HPIL) with a new facility to provide a safe environment for maintaining and calibrating radiation detection instruments used at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory. The existing HPIL facility provides portable health physics monitoring instrumentation and direct reading dosimetry procurement, maintenance and calibration of radiation detection instruments, and research and development support-services to the INEL and others. However, the existing facility was not originally designed for laboratory activities and does not provide an adequate, safe environment ...
Promoting the exchange of information related to implementation of the As Low as Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) philosophy is a continuing objective for the Department of Energy (DOE). This report was prepared by the Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) ALARA Center for the DOE Office of Health. It contains the fifth in a series of bibliographies on dose reduction at DOE facilities. The BNL ALARA Center was originally established in 1983 under the sponsorship of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to monitor dose-reduction research and ALARA activities at nuclear power plants. This effort was expanded in 1988 by the DOE`s Office of Environment, Safety and Health, to include DOE nuclear facilities. This bibliography contains abstracts relating to various aspects of ALARA program implementation and dose-reduction activities, with a specific focus on DOE facilities. Abstracts included in this bibliography ...
This paper details the development of a decontamination approach for the West Valley Demonstration Project (WVDP), Decontamination Project Plan (Plan). The WVDP is operated by West Valley Nuclear Services Company (WVNSCO), a subsidiary of Westinghouse Government and Environmental Services, and its parent companies Washington Group International and British Nuclear Fuels Limited (BNFL). The WVDP is a waste management effort being conducted by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) at the site of the only commercial nuclear fuel reprocessing facility to have operated in the United States. This facility is part of the Western New York Nuclear Service Center (WNYNSC), which is owned by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). As authorized by Congress in 1980 through the West Valley Demonstration Project Act (WVDP Act, Public Law 96-368), the DOE's primary mission at the WVDP is to solidify high-level ...
Data of thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) of single (Cu), double (Cu, Mn) and triple (Cu, Mn, Gd) activated SrS phosphors, which throws light on the nature and distribution of deeper traps have been presented. The samples are prepared by Bhawalkar's method and excited by UV 365 nm and #gamma#-rays to study the phenomenon. (author). 8 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.
The physical foundations and methodology are described of radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis. The sources are listed of air, water and soil pollution, and the transfer of impurities into biological materials is described. A detailed description is presented of the sampling of air, soil and biological materials and their preparation for analysis. Greatest attention is devoted to radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis of the components of the environment. (ES).
The current methods used by the tissue analysis program at LASL for the determination of americium and plutonium in autopsy tissue are described. Problems affecting radiochemical yield are discussed. Included are problems associated with samplepreparation, separation of plutonium from large amounts of bone ash, and reagent contamination. The average "2"4"2Pu tracer yield for 1800 Pu determinations is 78 +- 12%. The average "2"4"2Am tracer yield is 85 +- 7% for 40 determinations.
The current methods used by the tissue analysis program at LASL for the determination of americium and plutonium in autopsy tissue are described. Problems affecting radiochemical yield are discussed. Included are problems associated with samplepreparation, separation of plutonium from large amounts of bone ash, and reagent contamination. The average /sup 242/Pu tracer yield for 1800 Pu determinations is 78 +- 12%. The average /sup 242/Am tracer yield is 85 +- 7% for 40 determinations.
This paper reports the results of a fine-probe EDS microanalytical study of cellular precipitation in a Cu-Ti binary alloy. Compositional profiles across the solute depleted Cu-rich FCC lamellae and the Cu_4Ti lamellae within isothermally formed cellular colonies were measured in a FEG-TEM from thin-foil specimens prepared by conventional electropolishing and by a technique using a Ga"+ focused ion-beam (FIB). The Cliff-Lorimer ratio method, with an absorption correction, was employed to quantify the compositions. Two FIB samples were prepared with different orientations of the lamellae with respect to the ion-milling direction. The compositional profiles across the Cu-rich FCC lamellae and the Cu_4Ti compound lamellae in both the FIB-preparedsamples and the electropolished sample were, within experimental error, numerically equivalent. The composition of the ...
The neutron-induced fission cross-section of {sup 233}U has been measured at the CERN n-TOF facility relative to the standard fission cross-section of {sup 235}U between 0.5 and 20MeV. The experiment was performed with a fast ionization chamber for the detection of the fission fragments and to discriminate against {alpha} -particles from the natural radioactivity of the samples. The high instantaneous flux and the low background of the n-TOF facility result in data with uncertainties of {approx} 3%, which were found in good agreement with previous experiments. The high quality of the present results allows to improve the evaluation of the {sup 233}U (n,f) cross-section and, consequently, the design of energy systems based on the Th/U cycle. (orig.)
This paper summarizes the progress to date by CH2M HILL and the UKAEA in development of a parametric modelling capability for estimating the costs of large nuclear decommissioning projects in the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe. The ability to successfully apply parametric cost estimating techniques will be a key factor to commercial success in the UK and European multi-billion dollar waste management, decommissioning and environmental restoration markets. The most useful parametric models will be those that incorporate individual components representing major elements of work: reactor decommissioning, fuel cycle facility decommissioning, waste management facility decommissioning and environmental restoration. Models must be sufficiently robust to estimate indirect costs and overheads, permit pricing analysis and adjustment, and accommodate the intricacies of international monetary exchange, currency fluctuations and contingency. The development ...
This paper summarizes the progress to date by CH2M HILL and the UKAEA in development of a parametric modelling capability for estimating the costs of large nuclear decommissioning projects in the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe. The ability to successfully apply parametric cost estimating techniques will be a key factor to commercial success in the UK and European multi-billion dollar waste management, decommissioning and environmental restoration markets. The most useful parametric models will be those that incorporate individual components representing major elements of work: reactor decommissioning, fuel cycle facility decommissioning, waste management facility decommissioning and environmental restoration. Models must be sufficiently robust to estimate indirect costs and overheads, permit pricing analysis and adjustment, and accommodate the intricacies of international monetary exchange, currency fluctuations and contingency. The development ...
The present work focuses on the transformation of high-purity Ni powder blends of controlled volume fractions (40 and 60 %) of nanometre-sized (100 nm) and micrometre-sized (544 nm) particles into bulk samples as part of a strategy for producing ultrafine-grained materials usefully exhibiting both strength and ductility. The process involved cold isostatic pressing at 1.5 GPa and sintering. The resulting bulk samples had relative densities near 95 %, were texture-free, and exhibited two different grain size distributions with an average value of 600 #+-# 30 nm. The mechanical properties were investigated by compression and microhardness tests, both at room temperature, and compared to the behaviour of a sample processed from micrometre-sized powder only. Samplesprepared from the blends exhibited high yield stresses of 440 and 550 MPa after compression, and they did sustain work ...
During the present study concentration of nine elements (K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se, Br and Pb) in different tissues of mud crab Scylla serrata from Mahanadi estuary, India were determined by the external PIXE set up at Institute of Physics, Bhubaneswar, India. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the technique in analyzing both soft and hard tissue samples from marine organisms and opens the door for non-destructive, multi-elemental analysis of tissue samples with a very little samplepreparation by direct irradiation. This technique can be well utilized for analyzing the tissue samples for environmental, toxicological and nutritional purposes. The study also demonstrates the elemental concentrations from tissue samples of any crustaceans from Mahanadi estuary for the first time. Sex based difference in the elemental concentration of the mud crabs were ...
As part of efforts to develop improved methods for NMR protein samplepreparation and structure determination, the Northeast Structural Genomics Consortium (NESG) has implemented an NMR screening pipeline for protein target selection, construct optimization, and buffer optimization, incorporating efficient microscale NMR screening of proteins using a micro-cryoprobe. The process is feasible because the newest generation probe requires only small amounts of protein, typically 30-200 ?g in 8-35 ?l volume. Extensive automation has been made possible by the combination of database tools, mechanization of key process steps, and the use of a micro-cryoprobe that gives excellent data while requiring little optimization and manual setup. In this perspective, we describe the overall process used by the NESG for screening NMR samples as part of a sample optimization process, assessing optimal construct design and ...
The MonoPrep Pap Test (MPPT; MonoGen, Lincolnshire, IL) is a novel, liquid-based specimen collection and processing technology for cytologic and molecular testing. Its usefulness in the detection of cervical cancer and its precursors was evaluated in a multicenter, masked, adjudicated, split-sample study of 10,739 samples. After preparation of a conventional smear, the residuum on the collection device was rinsed into a collection vial from which an MPPT slide was prepared. Accuracy was assessed by masked reference interpretation by an independent pathologist. Slides prepared by MPPT, compared with smears, yielded statistically significant increases in relative sensitivity for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and worse, atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion/atypical glandular cells and worse, and low-grade squamous ...
Thinning specimens to electron transparency for electron microscopy analysis can be done by conventional (2-4 kV) argon ion milling or focused ion beam (FIB) lift-out techniques. Both these methods tend to leave 'mottling' visible on thin specimen areas, and this is believed to be surface damage caused by ion implantation and amorphisation. A low energy (250-500 V) Argon ion polish has been shown to greatly improve specimen quality for crystalline silicon samples. Here we investigate the preparation of technologically important materials for nanoanalysis using conventional and lift-out methods followed by a low energy polish in a GentleMill"T"M low energy ion mill. We use a low energy, low angle (6-8 deg.) ion beam to remove the surface damage from previous processing steps. We assess this method for the preparation of technologically important materials, such as steel, silicon and GaAs. For these materials the ability to ...
A collection of 14 papers from a June 1981 seminar assess the costs of damage caused by water pollution. The seminar focused on the economic rather than the legal standpoint by evaluating the cost of the clean-up operations themselves and other costs, such as direct or indirect economic losses, and converting into money terms the damage to the environment, the loss of recreational facilities, and biomass losses. The papers are grouped into four sections which look at the scale of risk, the clean-up costs for specific oil spills, other costs inflicted on coastal zones, and legal aspects of compensation. Separate abstracts were prepared for each of the 16 papers selected for the Energy Data Base.
The purpose of this work was to develop and evaluate a method of locating breached fuel within the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) reactor based on the relative response of the delayed neutron monitors (DNM) located on each of the three primary sodium cooling loops. The primary method of location is the use of tag gas containing unique ratios of the noble gases xenon and krypton. Although the tag gas system works quite well, it is relatively expensive because of the costs of preparing and loading the gas into each fuel pin. Triangulation of DNM signals could potentially decrease tag gas costs while maintaining overall location reliability.
The present Annual Report of Activities of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (ARN), prepared regularly from the creation as independent institution, describes across tree parts and seven annexes the activities developed by the organism during 2007. The main topic are: the organization and the activity of the ARN; the regulatory standards; the licensing and inspection of nuclear power plants and critical facilities; the emergency systems; the occupational surveillance; the environmental monitoring; improved organizational. Also, this publication have annexes with the following content: regulatory documents; inspections to medical, industrial and training installations; regulatory guides; measurement and evaluation of the drinking water of Ezeiza.
The agreement between the government of Republic Of Korea (ROK) and the IAEA for the application of safeguards was signed and entered into force in 1975. The Additional Protocol (AP) to the Safeguards Agreement between the ROK and the IAEA was signed in 1999 and entered into force on 19 February 2004. Also, Implementation of Integrated Safeguards (IS) was started on 1 July, 2008 after a draw of the broader conclusion. The IAEA provides 2 hours notification for Random Interim Inspection (RII) under IS. For RII, the facility has to prepare the inspection documents in a short time. Therefore, KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute) developed a new computerized nuclear material accounting system named KASIS (KAERI Safeguards Information treatment System) to treat the data by on-line for RII. For the efficient IS implementation, KAERI has a plan to upgrade the system to reflect the accounting approaches or reporting procedure according to ...
This paper describes the safety gas management system utilizing public telephone cables. Buyo Gas Co., Ltd. has installed about 100 governors for exclusive-use or use in the districts to control the gas supply to the consumers. A gas safety management system has been developed. This system consists of a pressure sensor, the terminals of gas leak alarms, and their masters. The features lie in that the system can utilize public cables, is operative at interruption of power service, can correspond to emergency situations, serves to save the cost, and can display the data constantly. For electric facilities in a governor room and the NTT cable service work, sufficient agreement with the possessor is required. In the case of non-utility electric facilities, some restrictions are imposed on the cable work for laying from privately-owned transformers, etc. Insurance for the facilities is necessary to prepare ...
The Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) previously known as the Plutonium Process and Storage Facility, or Z-Plant, was built and put into operation in 1949. Since 1949 PFP has been used for various processing missions, including plutonium purification, oxide production, metal production, parts fabrication, plutonium recovery, and the recovery of americium (Am-241). The PFP has also been used for receipt and large scale storage of plutonium scrap and product materials. The PFP Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) was prepared by WHC to document the hazards associated with the facility, present safety analyses of potential accident scenarios, and demonstrate the adequacy of safety class structures, systems, and components (SSCs) and operational safety requirements (OSRs) necessary to eliminate, control, or mitigate the identified hazards. Documented in this Safety Evaluation Report (SER) is DOE`s independent review and evaluation ...
The goal of this project was to develop a new technology for preparingsamples for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on the basis of ion fine beam processing. For this purpose processes of ion-beam-assisted removal (sputtering), separation, sample handling and ion-beam-assisted chemical etching as well of system-inherent components were examined. As an alternative to a Ga-source a liquid-metal ion source based on a AuGeSi alloy was developed, characterised and used in the FIB 4400. [German] Aufgabe des Projektes war die Entwicklung einer neuen Technologie zur Probenpraeparation fuer die Transmissions-Elektronenmikroskopie (TEM) auf der Basis der Ionenfeinstrahlbearbeitung. Dazu wurden Prozesse der ionenstrahlgestuetzten Abtragung (Sputtern), der Abscheidung, des Probenhandling, des ionenstrahlgestuetzten chemischen Aetzens sowie systemeigener Komponenten untersucht. Als Alternative zur Ga-Quelle wurde eine ...
Nanosatellite space launches could significantly benefit from an electrically powered launch complex, based on an electromagnetic coil launcher. This paper presents results of studies to estimate the required launcher parameters and some fixed facility issues. This study is based on electromagnetic launch, or electromagnetic gun technology, which is constrained to a coaxial geometry to take advantage of the efficiency of closely-coupled coils. A baseline configuration for analysis considers a payload mass of 10 kg, launch velocity of 6 km/s, a second stage solid booster for orbital insertion, and a payload fraction of about 0.1. The launch facility is envisioned as an inclined track, 1-2 km in length, mounted on a hillside at 25 degrees aimed in the orbital inclination of interest. The launcher energy and power requirements fall in the range of 2000 MJ and 2 MW electric. This energy would be supplied by 400 modules of energy storage and ...
A method for determining the reactivity of highly subcritical systems of fissile material, using neutron-noise power spectral densities in conjunction with a /sup 252/Cf source, had previousy been tested in two fast reactor critical assemblies (a mockup of the Fast Flux Test Facility reactor and unreflected enriched uranium metal assemblies) and one thermal reactor (a light-water moderated and reflected lattice of Oak Ridge Research Reactor fuel elements). The last-mentioned test demonstrated the effectiveness of the method in water-moderated systems and thereby prompted the present study of its application to facilities for fuel preparation, reprocessing, and storage. To investigate the applicability of this method to facilities for fuel preparation, reprocessing, and storage, limited experiments were performed with a uranyl fluoride solution. The Los Alamos National Laboratory ...
Data which have been collected by Los Alamos National Laboratory waste management for the hydrologic characterization of the subsurface at the low level radioactive waste disposal facility, Area G, are reported and discussed briefly. The data includes Unsaturated Flow Apparatus measurements of the unsaturated conductivity in samples from borehole G-5. Analysis compares these values to the predictions from van Genuchten estimates, and the implications for transport and data matching are discussed, especially at the location of the Vapor Phase Notch (VPN). There, evaporation drives a significant vapor flux and the liquid flux cannot be measured accurately by the UFA device. Data also include hydrologic characterization of samples from borehole G-5, Area G surface soils, Los Alamos (Cerros de Rio) basalt, Tsankawi and Cerro-Toledo layers, the Vapor Phase Notch (VPN), and additional new samples from the ...
A study was undertaken to examine the uptake, distribution, and interaction of five activation products (Co-57, Be-7, Cs-134, Rb-83, and Mn-54) within the biotic and abiotic components surrounding the waste treatment lagoons of the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF). The study attempted to ascertain where, and what specific interactions were taking place among the isotopes and the biotic/abiotic components. A statistical approach, utilizing Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), was conducted testing the radioisotopic concentrations by (1) the trophic levels (TROPLVL) in each position sampled on the grid, (2) where sampled on the grid (TRAN), (3) where sampled with-in each grid line (PLOT), and (4) the side with which sampled (SIDE). This provided both the dependent and independent variables that would be tested. The Null Hypothesis (Ho) tested the difference in the mean ...
A study was undertaken to examine the uptake, distribution, and interaction of five activation products (Co-57, Be-7, Cs-134, Rb-83, and Mn-54) within the biotic and abiotic components surrounding the waste treatment lagoons of the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF). The study attempted to ascertain where, and what specific interactions were taking place among the isotopes and the biotic/abiotic components. A statistical approach, utilizing Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), was conducted testing the radioisotopic concentrations by (1) the trophic levels (TROPLVL) in each position sampled on the grid, (2) where sampled on the grid (TRAN), (3) where sampled with-in each grid line (PLOT), and (4) the side with which sampled (SIDE). This provided both the dependent and independent variables that would be tested. The Null Hypothesis (Ho) tested the difference in the mean ...
This paper describes an electronic imaging system for producing real time neutron radiography from a low power research reactor, which will allow inspections of samples with high efficiency, in terms of measuring time and result analysis. This system has been implanted because of its potential use in various scientific and industrial areas where neutron radiography with photographic film could not be applied. This real time system is installed in neutron radiography facility of Argonauta nuclear research reactor, at the Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear of the Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear, in Brazil. It is adequate to perform real time neutron radiography of static and dynamic events of samples.
This paper describes an electronic imaging system for producing real time neutron radiography from a low power research reactor, which will allow inspections of samples with high efficiency, in terms of measuring time and result analysis. This system has been implanted because of its potential use in various scientific and industrial areas where neutron radiography with photographic film could not be applied. This real time system is installed in neutron radiography facility of Argonauta nuclear research reactor, at the Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear of the Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear, in Brazil. It is adequate to perform real time neutron radiography of static and dynamic events of samples.
The nature of the 5f electronic structure of plutonium (Pu) remains unclear. [1] Despite many recent attempts to resolve the issue, a plethora of important unanswered questions remain. While many theoretical approaches to the problem have been promulgated, the real source of the difficulty is the absence of sufficient experimental benchmarking. This paucity of impact on the part of experimental results is driven in part by the difficulties of working with Pu: it is highly radioactive, biologically toxic, chemically reactive and restricted in its distribution and permitted access to user facilities. The results of these liabilities include the following: (1) it is very difficult, if not impossible, to get large single crystals of single phase samples and; (2) many state of the art experiments can not be done because general user facilities are not available for use with Pu samples. Additionally, there is ...
A method of the correction for sample self attenuation used in segmented gamma scanner (SGS) is described. The method of calibration for assaying the uranium and plutonium contents of each category of heterogeneous process residues and wastes in nuclear facilities is studied. The effect of variable measurement parameter on measurement results is also studied. The measurement results of SGS assay is compared with that of the destructive assay (DA), which is aimed at evaluating SGS method for assaying uranium and plutonium content in process residues and wastes. The deviation of two assay results is 3.6%. The SGS assay results and DA assay results both are coincided well in error limits. Four category of heterogeneous process residues and wastes in nuclear facilities have assayed successfully in physical inventory. The uncertainty of measurement results for uranium and plutonium content in process residues and wastes is 5% ...
Some diagnostics at the National Ignition Facility (NIF), including the Gamma Reaction History (GRH) diagnostic, require multiple channels of data to achieve the required dynamic range. These channels need to be stitched together into a single time series, and they may have non-uniform and redundant time samples. We chose to apply the popular cubic smoothing spline technique to our stitching problem because we needed a general non-parametric method. We adapted one of the algorithms in the literature, by Hutchinson and deHoog, to our needs. The modified algorithm and the resulting code perform a cubic smoothing spline fit to multiple data channels with redundant time samples and missing data points. The data channels can have different, time-varying, zero-mean white noise characteristics. The method we employ automatically determines an optimal smoothing level by minimizing the Generalized Cross Validation (GCV) score. In ...
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is interested in developing tools and methods for potential U.S. use in designing and evaluating safeguards systems. For this goal several DOE National Laboratories are defining the characteristics of typical facilities of several size scales, and the safeguards measures and instrumentation that could be applied. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is providing systems modeling and analysis of facility and safeguards operations, diversion path generation, and safeguards system effectiveness. The constituent elements of diversion scenarios are structured using directed graphs (digraphs) and fault trees. Safeguards indicator probabilities are based on sampling statistics and/or measurement accuracies. Scenarios are ranked based on value and quantity of material removed and the estimated probability of non-detection. Significant scenarios, especially those involving timeliness or randomly ...
During second quarter 1992, tritium, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, chloroethene, antimony, 1,1-dichloroethylene, lead, nonvolatile beta, radium-228, thorium-228, or total alpha-emitting radium (radium-226 and radium-228) exceeded the US Environmental Protection Agency Primary Drinking Water Standards (PDWS) in groundwater samples from monitoring wells at the Mixed Waste Management Facility (MWMF) and adjacent facilities. Tritium and trichloroethylene were the most widespread constituents; 55 (48%) of the 115 monitored wells contained elevated tritium activities, and 23 (20%) wells exhibited elevated trichloroethylene concentrations. Sixty-three downgradient wells screened in Aquifer Zone IIB2 (Water Table), Aquifer Zone IIB[sub 2] (Barnwell/McBean), and Aquifer Unit IIA (Congaree) contained concentrations of tritium, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, chloroethene, antimony, 1,1-dichloroethylene, lead, ...
The Advanced Coal Liquefaction Research and Development Facility in Wilsonville, Alabama, is funded by the US Department of Energy (DOE), the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), and Amoco Corporation. On behalf of these organizations, Southern Company Services manages and Southern Clean Fuels Division of Southern Electric International operates the Wilsonville facility. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) receives funding from DOE to provide materials technical support to the Wilsonville operators. For the period July 1987 through November 1990 the plant was operated with two reactors a thermal reactor and a catalytic reactor in a close-coupled integrated two-stage liquefaction mode. Coal processed was obtained from several seams including Ohio No. 6, Illinois No. 6, and Pittsburgh No. 8, as well as Texas lignite and several subbituminous coals. Corrosion samples which were removed for examination at the end of this ...
Bremstrahlung Isochromat Spectroscopy (BIS). The XES spectra were collected using a Specs electron gun for the excitation and the XES 350 grating monochromator and channel plate system from Scienta as the photon detection. Spectra were collected in 'normal mode,' where the electron gun kinetic energy (KE) and the energy position of the center of the channel plate were both fixed and the energy distribution in the photon (hv) spectrum was derived from the intensities distributed across the channel plate detector in the energy dispersal direction. The polycrystalline Ce sample was oxidized by exposure to air at ambient pressures. After introduction to the ultra-high vacuum system, the oxidized sample was bombarded with Ar, to clean the topmost surface region and stabilize the surface and near surface regions. Although CeO{sub 2} would be the thermodynamically preferred composition in an oxygen rich environment, the combination ...
The 'high-tension distribution line design support system' was developed for the 'work design support system'. This support system is composed of the work outline editor for preparing work details and facility data and the inference engine for preparing practical design plans, and can check system conditions such as voltage drop and deviation from technical standards automatically. The work outline editor takes charge of selection of work items, selective input of system information, and setting of some conditions such as pole position and reserved load onto a system diagram. The inference engine provides the design plan automatically based on the information inputted by the editor. For the design of high-tension distribution line, such various factors as local condition and load sharing of distribution systems should be considered. This design support system attains efficient processing ...
We report a templated-synthetic approach based on apoferritin to prepare radionuclide nanoparticle (NP) conjugates. Non-radioactive yttrium (89Y) was used as model target and surrogate for radioyttrium (90Y) to prepare the nanoparticle conjugate. The center cavity and multiple channel structure of apoferritin offer a fast and facile method to precipitate yttrium phosphate by diffusing yttrium and phosphate ions into the cavity of apofrritin, resulting a core-shell nanocomposite. The yttrium phosphate/apoferritin nanoparticle was functionalized with biotin for further application. The synthesized nanoparticle was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We found that the resulting nanoparticles were uniform in size, with a diameter of around 8 nm. We tested the pre-targeting capability of the biotin-modified yttrium phosphate/apoferritin nanoparticle (yttrium ...
Thermal analysis testing revealed slight weight changes, which were a function of gamma irradiation, in a highly reduced Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) simulated waste glass. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed on this glass to determine if the weight change corresponded to microstructural variations. TEM analyses showed that no microstructural changes were attributable to gamma irradiation. Exposure of the samples to the electron beam in the TEM did cause changes in the glass microstructures in some cases. These changes were likely due to localized heating of the glass due to interactions with the transmitted electrons.
To minimize the low and intermediate-level solid radwaste volume, the reduction efforts were persisted in Korean NPPs. As a result, annual average waste volumes were reduced to 194 drums per unit at last year. In this paper we confirmed 250 drums/unit-yr, EPRI URD management goal, and management condition for solid radwaste volume. Also, through the sample assessment of specific Korean NPP opened to the public, we could make sure that the prediction of saturation year for interim storage facility is fully suitable.
Neutron resonance interactions with /sup 100/Mo were studied at a time-of-flight facility. The transmission of two oxide samples (97.4% /sup 100/Mo) was measured at a 78.20 m flight path and the neutron capture cross section was measured at 40.12 m. Resonance analyses yielded parameters of 124 resonances. Capture ..gamma..-ray spectra from 11 resolved resonances were measured with a Ge(Li) detector at a 10.45 m flight path. In contrast to neighboring nuclei, partial radiation widths of strong p-wave resonances are not in agreement with valence model predictions.
To encourage the application of robotics technology for routine radiobench applications, a laboratory dedicated to the research and development of contained robotic systems is being constructed. The facility will have several robots located in laminar flow hoods, and the hoods are being designed to allow the possibility for multiple robots to work together. This paper presents both the design features of the hoods and the general layout of the laboratory, and also discusses an application of a robotic system for the routine nuclear counting of gamma tube samples. The gamma tube system is presently operating in one of the routine analysis laboratories. 5 figs.
Combustion performance trials were conducted on a commercial sample of Coal Valley coal from the Coalspur coalfield in the foothills region of Alberta. The project included an analytical investigation of the coal and coal ash properties as well as combustion studies in the CCRL pilot-scale, pulverized coal-fired boiler, under conditions representative of those in large steam boilers. This report gives the objectives of the project, the analyses of the coals, and describes the facilities and operational procedures. An evaluation of the experimental results and the conclusions are presented.
This paper deals with preparation of PE clay nano composite specimen for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and studying the difference between dispersion of clay in low density polyethylene using poly(hydrogen methyl siloxane) (PHMS) as coupling agent and untreated one. Argon ion milling is the conventional means by which film sections are thinned to electron transparency for TEM analysis, but this technique exhibits significant problems. In particular, selective thinning and imaging of sub-micrometer inclusions during sample milling are highly problematic. We have achieved successful results using the focused ion beam (FIB) lift-out technique, which utilizes a 30 kV Ga"+ ion beam to extract electron transparent specimens with nanometer scale precision. Using this procedure, we have prepared a number of thin film materials representing a range of structures and compositions for TEM analysis. We believe that FIB milling ...
A series of Gd-substituted M-type barium hexaferrites has been prepared by the ceramic route, according to the formula (Ba{sub 1-x}Gd{sub x})O.5.25Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (x=0-0.30). XRD analysis revealed that all the samples present primarily an M-type structure. Samples x=0 and x=0.05 are single-phase. Hematite (Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) and GdFeO{sub 3} were detected in the remaining samples. Coercivity (H{sub c}) shows remarkably high values, {approx}293kA/m for x=0.20 and 0.30 with a maximum of 322kA/m for x=0.25. Specific saturation magnetization ({sigma}{sub sat}) of the samples presents a small increase up to x=0.10. The microstructure examination indicates that Gd may act as a grain growth inhibitor.
A series of Gd-substituted M-type barium hexaferrites has been prepared by the ceramic route, according to the formula (Ba_1_-_xGd_x)O.5.25Fe_2O_3 (x=0-0.30). XRD analysis revealed that all the samples present primarily an M-type structure. Samples x=0 and x=0.05 are single-phase. Hematite (Fe_2O_3) and GdFeO_3 were detected in the remaining samples. Coercivity (H_c) shows remarkably high values, #approx#293kA/m for x=0.20 and 0.30 with a maximum of 322kA/m for x=0.25. Specific saturation magnetization (#sigma#_s_a_t) of the samples presents a small increase up to x=0.10. The microstructure examination indicates that Gd may act as a grain growth inhibitor.
Bethlehem Steel Corporation (BSC), in conjunction with the Department of Energy (DOE) is conducting a Clean Coal Technology (CCT) project at its Sparrows Point, Maryland Coke Oven Plant. This innovative coke oven gas cleaning system combines several existing technologies into an integrated system for removing impurities from Coke Oven Gas (COG) to make it an acceptable fuel. DOE provided cost-sharing under a Cooperative Agreement with BSC. This Cooperative Agreement requires BSC to develop and conduct and Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Clean Coal Technology project and to report the status of the EMP on a quarterly basis. It also requires the preparation of a final report on the results of the Baseline Compliance and Supplemental Sampling Programs that are part of the EMP and which were conducted prior to the startup of the innovative coke oven gas cleaning system. This report is the Baseline Sampling Program report.
Research was conducted to determine the effect of electrochemical aging on large area arc-sprayed zinc anodes for cathodic protection of bridges and other reinforced concrete structures. The study focused on the influence of total charge passed and concrete surface preparation on the bonding of the zinc to the concrete. Half of the samples were preheated prior to being arc-sprayed with zinc. The preheated samples had initial bond strengths that were 80% higher than the unheated samples. This difference in bond strength became insignificant after the passage of approximately 200 kC/m{sup 2} (5.2 A-h/ft{sup 2}) and bond strengths for all samples started to decrease after approximately 600 kC/m{sup 2} (15.5 A-h/ft{sup 2}). These changes in bond strength were correlated with observed changes in the permeability of the zinc coating to water, the electrical behavior of the zinc-concrete ...
We reported the radio-protective effect of DTT. The treatment of DTT increased cell survival after gamma-irradiation, decreased in the frequencies of micronucleus, and reduction in DNA fragmentation and apoptotic cells. Induction of apoptosis after UV-C irradiation was revealed by the changes in the relative cell death, increase in the relative amount of apoptotic cells, and the induction of DNA fragmentation. About 100 medicinal plants were purchased and methanol extract samples were prepared. Radio-protective and radio-sensitizing activities of these samples were screened. Seven samples showed above 20% radio-protective activities: Salvia miltiorrhiza, Areca catechu, Cornus officinalis, Alpiniae officinari rhizoma, Meliae fructus, Alpiniae katsumadaii semen, Betulae cortex. Acanthopanax sessiliflous showed the highest radio-sensitizing effect and 10 other samples revealed moderate ...
The automotive paints could be generally differentiated by color, layer sequence and chemistry of the paint layers comprising each of the topcoat and the primer system. The successful identification of hit-and-run a and traffic accidental vehicles from evidential paint fragments is greatly facilitated with a comprehensive laboratory collection of reference paint samples and the technique for direct analysis without samplepreparation. The Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography(PGC) is a precise and reliable method for performing both quantitative and qualitative analysis of polymeric materials and forensic samples. Our Forensic Laboratory is conducting the examination and identification of 73 reference paint samples; 4 colors of each domestic automotive make that is poplar in Korea, by Curie Point Pyrolyzer(JHP-3) and GC with capillary column(ultra alloy-5). This method can be used not only ...
In this paper, we prepared by the sol-gel method alkaline titania catalysts, doped by gelling titanium alkoxide with aqueous solutions containing potassium, rubidium or cesium chlorides. XRD patterns showed that samples annealed at 400 and 600degreeC contained a single crystalline phase, anastase. Specific surface areas were higher in samples annealed at 400degreeC (>100m2/g) than in those annealed at 600degreeC (25m2/g). The weight density of basic sites determined by CO2-TPD drastically diminished in samples treated at 600degreeC. Catalysts were tested for the self-condensation of acetone at 300degreeC; main reaction products were isomesityl oxide, mesityl oxide and mesitylene. Samples annealed at 600degreeC showed lower acetone conversion rate and low formation of mesitylene than that o...
As part of the demonstration testing of the Purge Water Management System (PWMS) technology at the Savannah River Site (SRS), four wells were equipped with PWMS units in 1997 and a series of sampling events were conducted at each during 1997-1998. Three of the wells were located in A/M Area while the fourth was located at the Old Radioactive Waste Burial Ground in the General Separations Area.The PWMS is a ''closed-loop'', non-contact, system used to collect and return purge water to the originating aquifer after a sampling event without having significantly altered the water quality. One of the primary concerns as to its applicability at SRS, and elsewhere, is whether the PWMS might resample groundwater that is returned to the aquifer during the previous sampling event. The purpose of the present investigation was to compare groundwater chemical analysis data collected at the four test ...
Abstract Preparation of antibacterial alginate films incorporating extruded white ginseng (EWG) extracts was attempted. The antibacterial effect of EWG extract on six selected food pathogenic bacteria was compared with the effect of red ginseng (RG) and white ginseng (WG) extracts. The EWG was processed in a twin-screw extruder with feed moisture of 20% and barrel temperature of 115 and 130C. The data obtained by agar diffusion assay demonstrated that the film containing 1-g/mL of EWG at barrel temperatures of 115 (EWG-115) and 130C (EWG-130) exhibited stronger antibacterial activity against the four strains of bacteria than the other extracts RG and WG. All films sampled showed reduction in bacteria cell counts (log cycle) compared with the control. After 24-h of incubation, Pseudomonas a...
Highly ordered arrays of Ni nanoholes and Fe{sub 20}Ni{sub 80} antidots have been prepared, respectively, by replica/antireplica processing and sputtering techniques using nanoporous alumina membranes as templates. Geometrical characteristics as nanohole/antidot diameter, interpore distance and the overall hexagonal symmetry of arrays are controlled through the original templates. Experimental data on their hysteresis and magnetic domain structure have been taken by vibrating sample magnetometry and magnetic force microscopy, respectively. An analysis of the magnetization process, resulting magnetic anisotropy and magnetic domain structure is summarized considering the influence of those geometry aspects. In particular, the hexagonal symmetry and the density of nanohole/antidots determine the overall magnetic behavior, which is of interest in future high-density magnetic storage systems.
Highly ordered arrays of Ni nanoholes and Fe20Ni80 antidots have been prepared, respectively, by replica/antireplica processing and sputtering techniques using nanoporous alumina membranes as templates. Geometrical characteristics as nanohole/antidot diameter, interpore distance and the overall hexagonal symmetry of arrays are controlled through the original templates. Experimental data on their hysteresis and magnetic domain structure have been taken by vibrating sample magnetometry and magnetic force microscopy, respectively. An analysis of the magnetization process, resulting magnetic anisotropy and magnetic domain structure is summarized considering the influence of those geometry aspects. In particular, the hexagonal symmetry and the density of nanohole/antidots determine the overall magnetic behavior, which is of interest in future high-density magnetic storage systems.
The aim of this study was to develop a nanostructured Nb2O5-natural hydroxyapatite bulk composite to serve as an alternative biocompatible bulk material for implants. A set of samples of hydroxyapatite from fish bones with different concentrations of Nb2O5 were designed. They were prepared through a milling process, compacted under different pressures (350, 450, 550 and 650MPa) and sintered in air atmosphere at 1000^oC for 1h. The results revealed that the prepared composites presented strong interactions between the two elements and showed improvement in the sinterability with significant densification and microstructure changes, suggesting that they are promising for implants meant to replace bone tissues.
Ferroelectric [Pb_0_._9_2(La_1_-_zSb _z)_0_._0_8][Zr_0_._6_0Ti_0_._4_0]O_3 for z = 0.0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1 were prepared from their constituent oxides by a solid state reaction technique. The powders were calcined in the temperature range of 1000 deg. C for 6 h. Phase formation, crystal structure and lattice parameter were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The compacts were sintered at 1250 deg. C for 2 h and their dielectric, ferroelectric and conductive properties were measured. The ferroelectric behavior of the doped samples was studied from their hysteresis loop.
Abstract Nanocomposites based on SnO2 with carbon scaffold were used as highly porous anode films on Ni substrates. The films were obtained by in situ deposition of the particles without any binder or excess carbon black avoiding any secondary treatment. Compared to similarly prepared uncoated SnO2 nanoparticles as well as conventionally prepared powder samples the capacity loss of the in situ deposited nanocomposite films is significantly reduced. Thus, this newly developed anode material combined with in situ film formation is a promising approach for high capacity anodes in Li-ion batteries. SEM-micrograph of a SnO2/C nanoparticle film.
The aims of the present work were to investigate possible compatibility between sodium zirconium phosphate (NZP) and Synroc titanate phases, to prepare NZP-based waste forms by hot-pressing rather than sintering, and to investigate the incorporation in NZP of (a) Cs/Sr as simulated heat-generating nuclides; (b) simulated actinides; and (c) simulated Purex waste. The NZP samples were prepared by methods similar to those used for Synroc. The precursor NZP phase was formed from tetrabutyl zirconate Zr(OC{sub 4}H{sub 9}){sub 4}, sodium nitrate, and 85% orthophosphoric acid. Simulated waste nitrate solutions were then mixed with the liquid precursor. After stir drying of the precursor, calcination was carried out at 700{degree}C to remove nitrates and organics.
Under different sintering temperatures(340 degrees C, 440 degrees C, 540 degrees C, 640 degrees C), four TiO2 particles were prepared. The crystal types of all four samples were found to possess anatase structures by XRD. It was obtained by N2 experimental adsorption at low temperature (77K) that their surface areas and average pore size were between 79 and 124 m2/g, 56.8 and 254.8 A respectively. The pore structure of TiO2 particles was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The tests of adsorption dynamics for FGD and the performance of SO2 removal were investigated in a fixed-bed system for different samples. The results show that SG540 sample which made at 540 degrees C sintering temperature had the most quality among the four samples. It can adsorb SO2 of 38.9 mg for one gram SG540 sample. Different operating conditions for SG540 such as ...
Methods currently being used or developed for the elemental analysis of materials are chemical analysis, non-destructive inspection and calorimetry. The chemical analysis, which removes high-level radioactive elements through chemical treatments and then performs the quantitative analysis using the ICP-MS(Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometer) or the ID-MS(Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometer), is recognized the most accurate. However, it requires a long, complex pre-treatment process in which a mass spectrometer could be contaminated. To solve this problem, a new method, which can be performed with high-level radioactivity and at high temperature, was desired. Such a method should also have the same accuracy as the chemical analysis, with a less possibility for instruments to be contaminated. In addition, as interests in the environment and the life quality are increased, a detailed analysis on the environmental impacts is also required. Satisfying all of the above-mentioned, ...
The effect of addition of rosemary and oregano extracts on the sensory quality of irradiated beef burger was investigated. Batches of beef burgers were prepared with 400 ppm of rosemary or oregano extract and a group prepared with 200 ppm of synthetic butyl-hydroxytoluene (BHT)/butyl-hydroxy-anisol (BHA) was used as a control. Half of each formulation was irradiated at the maximum dose allowed for frozen meat (7 kGy). Samples were kept under frozen conditions (-20 deg. C) during the whole storage period, including during irradiation. Two analyses were performed after 20 and 90 days to verify the influence of the addition of the different types of antioxidants and the effect of irradiation and storage time on the acceptance of the product. Thirty-three and thirty-four untrained panelists were invited to participate in the first and second test, respectively. A structured hedonic scale ranging from 1 to 9 points was used in ...
This paper presents studies carried out on tin-doped indium sulfide films prepared using Chemical Spray Pyrolysis (CSP) technique. Effect of both in-situ and ex-situ doping were analyzed. Ex-situ doping was done by thermal diffusion, which was realized by annealing Sn/In2S3 bilayer films. In-situ doping was accomplished by introducing Sn into the spray solution by using SnCl45H2O. Interestingly, it was noted that by ex-situ doping, conductivity of the sample enhanced considerably without affecting any of the physical properties such as crystallinity or band gap. Analysis also showed that higher percentage of doping resulted in samples with low crystallinity and negative photosensitivity. In-situ doping resulted in amorphous films. In contrast to ex-situ doping, `in- situ doping' resulted i...
The design of solid breeder blankets is strongly affected by the low values of thermal conductivity and density of ceramic breeder pebble beds. A significant rise of both quantities would enhance the thermal performance and lead to an increased tritium breeding ratio. In order to improve these quantities pretreated lithium orthosilicate pebble material was dry pressed and subsequently sintered. The thermal conductivity of cylindrical pellets was determined by the heat pulse method using a laser flash device. A pebble bed characteristic sample was also investigated in order to check the measurement accuracy in comparison with previous results. Furthermore, two samples of low density cellular ceramics were also prepared by infiltration of polymer foams with a ceramic slurry. The thermal cond...
We investigated phase transition of ilmenite-type AgSbO3 to pyrochlore by post-heat treatment and the synergy effect of the mixed phases of AgSbO3 on the photocatalytic activities to enhance the activities. The AgSbO3 with an ilmenite structure was prepared by a cation-exchange method. Phase transition from the ilmenite to pyrochlore occurred by proper control of post-heat treatment. The sample that was obtained by post-heat treatment of ilmenite-type AgSbO3 at 660^oC for 3h consisted of both of the ilmenite and pyrochlore phases, and the sample at 685^oC for 4h mainly consisted of the pyrochlore phase. Together with an increase in the ratio of the pyrochlore phase, the optical absorption spectra blue-shifted. The band gaps of single phases of the ilmenite and the pyrochlore were 2.4 and 2...
Two of eight differently prepared copper stabilizer samples, previously irradiated in the RTNS-II at LLNL, the IPNS-1 and the BSR at ORNL, have been irradiated to a fluence of 1.33 /times/ 10/sup 22/ n/m/sup 2/ at RTNS-II. During the course of the irradiation the samples were periodically removed (without warming) for measurements of the transverse magnetoresistance and returned for continued irradiation. This experiment extends the range of neutron-irradiation-induced resistivity by a factor of five over the previous experiments. A simple model is developed which reproduces the magnetoresistance results of all the experiments to an accuracy of 2.5%. 13 refs., 6 figs.
A high-precision Li isotope analysis was developed for determining the Li"+ ion emitted from lithium phosphate as an ion source material by a Re double-filament ionization method in the thermal ionization mass spectrometry. In this method, Li isotopic fractionation is distinctly less sensitive to the filament temperature than those in the previous methods, and stable and high ion beam intensity of more than 8 x 10"-"1"1 A for "7Li is obtained. These advantages in determining the "7Li/"6Li ratio result in the analytical reproducibility of 0.26 per mille (1#sigma#). Furthermore, the samplepreparation is simple and the low temperature (850degC) required by this method ensures the analysis of the isotopic composition of small amounts of Li with less influence of Li contamination to the sample, compared with the previous methods. (author).
High molecular weight samples of the novel biodegradable polyester poly(ethylene sebacate) (PESeb) were synthesized. Miscible poly(ethylene sebacate)/poly(4-vinyl phenol) semicrystalline/amorphous blends were prepared by applying the solvent casting method. Miscibility was proved by the single composition dependent glass transition temperature over the entire composition range observed in DSC traces of the quenched blend samples and also by the melting point depression. The Flory-Huggins interaction parameter was found to be x12 = -1.3. Also, FTIR spectra supported the hypothesis of intermolecular interactions due to hydrogen bonding. The crystallization of PESeb in blends was studied. As expected, isothermal crystallization rates decreased in the blends with increasing the PVPh content. T...
N-doped TiO2 has been prepared by use of sol?gel systems containing titanium alkoxide, with nitric acid as the nitrogen source. The time needed for gelation of the systems was drastically reduced by ultrasonic irradiation. The peaks assigned to the nitrate and nitrous ions were observed by FT-IR measurement during the sol?gel reaction. The N-doping was confirmed by the observation of N?O peaks in the XPS spectrum of the sample heated at 400??C. The nitrate ion acted as an oxidizer of the ethanol solvent and titanium species. The TiO2 became doped with nitrogen oxide species as a result of reduction of nitrate ion incorporated into the dried gel samples. These results indicated that the added nitric acid was reduced during the sol?gel transition and heating process, and the resulting NO spe...
The following is the optimized pulsed laser deposition (PLD) procedure by which we prepared the final samples that were sent to LLNL. These samples are epitaxial multilayer structures of Si/YSZ/CeO/NSMO, where the abbreviations are explained in the following table. In this heterostructure, YSZ serves as a buffer layer to prevent deleterious chemical reactions, and also serves to de-oxygenate the amorphous SiO{sub 2} layer to generate a crystalline template for epitaxy. CeO and BTO serve as template layers to minimize the effects of thermal and lattice mismatch strains, respectively. More details on the buffer and template layer scheme are included in the manuscript [Yong et al., 2008] attached to this report.
This paper aimed to the evaluation of different kinds of sorbent material preparation and to the evaluation of their characteristics at different pH conditions by X-ray fluorescence analysis. This method is suitable for identification and determination of elements in samples of different character, state and origin because it is a polycomponent, non-destructive, fast and simple analytical method. Moreover, it allows timeadvantageous and reliable measurements. This paper studies problems concerning the determination of some selected elements (Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb) in pharmaceutical samples of sodium chloride in the solid state as well as in its solution by sorption on chelating extraction membrane 3M Empore"T"M and on the strongly acidic ion-exchanger Dowex 50Wx8. Conditions for the most effective sorption of determined elements are also interpreted. (author)
This paper aimed to the evaluation of different kinds of sorbent material preparation and to the evaluation of their characteristics at different pH conditions by X-ray fluorescence analysis. This method is suitable for identification and determination of elements in samples of different character, state and origin because it is a polycomponent, non-destructive, fast and simple analytical method. Moreover, it allows time-advantageous and reliable measurements. This paper studies problems concerning the determination of some selected elements (Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb) in pharmaceutical samples of sodium chloride in the solid state as well as in its solution by sorption on chelating extraction membrane 3M Empore? and on the strongly acidic ion-exchanger Dowex 50Wx8. Conditions for the most ef...
In preparation for studying the hydrolytic degradation of Estane 5703 in the plastic-bonded explosive PBX 9501, the sorption (solubility) and diffusion of water in PBX 9501 and each of its components are studied experimentally and modeled theoretically. Experiments are reported that measure the weight gain or loss due to a change in the relative humidity (RH). For all of the components, the equilibrium amount of water sorbed per gram of sample is linear in the RH at low relative humidities but curves upwards at higher relative humidities. This behavior is modeled with a water cluster model. Diffusion coefficients are determined by modeling the time dependence of the water concentrations assuming Fickian diffusion, and that fits the data for some of the materials. However, all the samples t...
Sales of iodized table salt (household use, bulk containers) have been flat in Germany since 1996/1997. Nevertheless, the amount of iodide excreted with the urine has been steadily increasing in the German population since 1993. We investigated the beverage iodine levels as possible source of the increased input of iodine into the food chain. No systematic studies on this topic have yet been carried out in Germany. A total of 510 samples were drawn from large grocery discounters who supply all German states with their products (35% fruit and vegetable juices, 35% beers, 10% pooled milk and yoghurt drinks, 10% mineral water, 10% soda). (1) Water-based beverage samples are prepared by solid-phase extraction and iodine concentration is determined by HPLC and electrochemical detection, (2) the...
Here we demonstrate that the as-prepared MCM-41 mesoporous silica material, which is synthesized using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as a cationic surfactant exhibits very high capacity for perchlorate uptake from solutions. Thus we discover a new function for the as-synthesized mesoporous materials containing cationic surfactants. These materials are shown to have better capacity than the currently used activated carbon, which is preloaded with cationic surfactant. As-synthesized MCM-41 has a higher removal of perchlorate with 0.378???0.038?meq/g than the surfactant modified activated carbon sample, which removed 0.304???0.005?meq/g i.e., MCM-41 has a 24 % higher capacity than the surfactant modified activated carbon sample for perchlorate uptake because of higher surfactant content and ...
In this study, a novel graphene nanosheets (GNSs) coated solid phase microextraction (SPME) fiber was prepared by immobilizing microwave synthesized GNSs on a stainless steel wire. Microwave synthesized GNSs were verified by X-ray diffraction, field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). GNS-SPME fiber was characterized using FE-SEM and the results showed the GNS coating was homogeneous, porous, and highly adherent to the surface of the stainless steel fiber. The performance and feasibility of the GNS-SPME fiber was evaluated under one-step microwave assisted (MA) headspace (HS) SPME followed by gas chromatography with electron capture detection for five organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in aqueous samples. Parameters influencing the extra...
Purpose: To evaluate micro computed tomography (micro-CT) for the assessment of osteochondritis dissecans in comparison with histology. Material and Methods: Osteochondritis dissecans lesions of 3 patients were evaluated using micro-CT (0.125 mA, 40 keV, 60 m slice thickness, 60 m isotropic resolution, entire sample) and light microscopy (toluidine blue, 3-5 m slice thickness). The methods were compared regarding preparation time, detectability of tissue types and morphologic features of bone and cartilage. Results: Non-destructive micro-CT imaging of the entire sample was faster than histologic preparation of a single slice for light microscopy. Morphologic features of bone and cartilage could be imaged in a comparable way to histology. It was not possible to image cells or different tissue types of bone and cartilage with micro-CT. Conclusion: Micro-CT is a fast, non-destructive tool that may be a ...
Purpose: To evaluate micro computed tomography (micro-CT) for the assessment of osteochondritis dissecans in comparison with histology. Material and Methods: Osteochondritis dissecans lesions of 3 patients were evaluated using micro-CT (0.125 mA, 40 keV, 60 m slice thickness, 60 m isotropic resolution, entire sample) and light microscopy (toluidine blue, 3-5 m slice thickness). The methods were compared regarding preparation time, detectability of tissue types and morphologic features of bone and cartilage. Results: Non-destructive micro-CT imaging of the entire sample was faster than histologic preparation of a single slice for light microscopy. Morphologic features of bone and cartilage could be imaged in a comparable way to histology. It was not possible to image cells or different tissue types of bone and cartilage with micro-CT. Conclusion: Micro-CT is a fast, non-destructive tool that may be a ...
Nanocrystalline samples of Fe_8_0Mo_2_0 and Fe_5_0Mo_5_0 alloys were prepared by the mechanical milling method. The structure, lattice parameters, and crystallite size were determined by the X-ray diffraction. The magnetic properties of the milled products were determined by the Moessbauer spectroscopy. It was observed that in the case of the Fe_8_0Mo_2_0 alloy a solid solution of Mo in Fe was formed with the lattice parameters of the Fe increasing from 0.28659 nm to 0.29240 nm and the crystallite size decreasing from 250 nm to 20 nm. In the case of the Fe_5_0Mo_5_0 alloy there were no clear changes in values of the lattice parameters of Fe and Mo during the milling process, but the crystallite size decreased from 200 to 15 nm. Moessbauer spectra revealed different magnetic phases in the machanosynthesized Fe_Mo samples. In the case of the Fe_8_0Mo_2_0 alloy, the spectrum for the milled mixture indicated the formation of ...
Lyophilized human whole blood control material containing lead was prepared for internal and external quality assurance to evaluate and improve the analytical performance of lead. The samples were prepared in four different concentrations from outdated human whole blood stabilized with glucose and a citrate/phosphate buffer and provided under clean room conditions to avoid contamination. The lyophilized samples are easy to reconstitute with water. The materials were evaluated according to a statistical model. The lead concentrations in the specimens are close to blood lead levels usually following environmental and industrial exposure, particular in occupational health to the control of lead exposure at work regulations. The materials are available to the commercial as well as the scientific community. The Danish External Quality Assessment Scheme (DEQAS) for lead in blood is intended to complement the ...
It has been prepared composites materials by means of monomer penetration in pores of wood samples and later curing by means of gamma irradiation. The studied species were Hura crepitans L. (catahua), Aniba puchury-minor (C. Martinez) (mohena amarilla), and Calycophyllum spruceanum (Benth.) (capirona). These new materials exhibit smaller water absorption and better mechanical properties in comparison with native wood. The test tubes of catahua treated with the styrene-polyester mixture absorb only up to 10% humidity compared to the native species whereas its hardness is increased in a 100%. (author).
Using standards on phenol-formaldehyde resin base for assaying-activation analysis of geological specimens for gold and silver has bee the advantage of uniformly distributing Au and Ag in spesimens and possible preparing tablets of practically any form or size. The validity and accuracy of these standards have been studied for the cases of short irradiation. Conventional point standards were used as reference standards. The experiments carried out have shown that tablet resol standards are suitable for a mass assaying-activation analysis for gold and silver at practically any concentrations.
Spectroscopy of antihydrogen has the potential to yield high-precision tests of the CPT theorem and shed light on the matter-antimatter imbalance in the Universe. The ALPHA antihydrogen trap at CERN's Antiproton Decelerator aims to prepare a sample of antihydrogen atoms confined in an octupole-based Ioffe trap and to measure the frequency of several atomic transitions. We describe our techniques to directly measure the antiproton temperature and a new technique to cool them to below 10 K. We also show how our unique position-sensitive annihilation detector provides us with a highly sensitive method of identifying antiproton annihilations and effectively rejecting the cosmic-ray background.
Multi-cation #alpha#-Sialon ceramics were prepared using mixtures of samarium with calcium, magnesium, yttrium and ytterbium, and compared with a pure Sm-Sialon of equivalent total stabilising cation composition. A ratio of 80eq% samarium to 20eq% of the second stabilising additive was used. Samples were fired at 1820 deg C and subsequently heat treated at 1450 deg C. XRD phase analysis showed that all additives resulted in greater #alpha#-Sialon stability, and that calcium was the most effective additive for the stabilisation of the #alpha#-Sialon phase. Copyright (1998) Australasian Ceramic Society
The CeO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2}-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} samples with different bismuth content were prepared in this study. By the doping of Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} into the lattice, TPR profiles of the CeO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} shifted to lower temperatures and oxygen storage capacity increased remarkably. It is concluded that the reason for such a behavior is probably due to both the formation of oxygen vacancies which enhance the oxygen mobility and the simultaneous reduction of Ce{sup 4+} and Bi{sup 3+} in the mixed oxides. (authors)
The resistance of six tropical hardwoods to fungal degradation by two wild-type strains of Phanerochaete chrysosporium Burdsall was investigated using vermiculite burial and wood-block weight loss techniques. Radiation-induced wood-polymer composites (WPC), based on two hardwoods Ramin and Rubberwood with methyl methacrylate, were prepared, and samples were also exposed to the wood-rotting fungus. A significant improvement in resistance to fungal decay was observed in the WPC. Scanning-electron micrographs of the two woods and their composites after fungal degradation are presented and discussed.
The purpose of this work is to present a comprehensive, instructive analysis of the basis of radionuclide XRFA, to describe methods of samplepreparation for environmental analysis and to make the reader more familiar with the procedures, methods and instrumentation of radionuclide XRFA used in this field. This book discusses the use of radionuclide XRFA for solving analytical problems of the environment and information is presented concerning the current state of research and use of radionuclide XRFA in this significant area. The present volume will serve as a basic source of data and also as a laboratory handbook. refs.; figs.; tabs.
Progress is reported in several areas of research. The following cellulosic raw materials were selected for study: wheat, barley, and rice straws, rice hulls, sorghum, corn stover, cotton gin trash, newsprint, ground wood, and masonite steam-treated Douglas fir and redwood. Samples were collected, prepared, and analyzed for hexosans, pentosans, lignin, ash, and protein. Results of acid extraction and enzymatic hydrolysis are discussed. Yields of glucose, polyglucose, xylose, and arabinose are reported. Progress in process design and economic studies, as well as pilot plant process development and design studies, is summarized. (JGB)
X-ray photoemission spectroscopy has been used to measure the valence band offset {Delta}E{sub v} for the AlP/GaP (001) heterojunction interface. The heterojunction samples were prepared by molecular-beam epitaxy. A value of {triangle}E{sub v}=0.43 eV is obtained (staggered band alignment, with AlP valence band below that of GaP). 24 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.
Many analytical chemistry methods normally used at the Savannah River site require repetitive procedures and handling of radioactive and other hazardous solutions. Robotics is being investigated as a method of reducing personnel fatigue and radiation exposure and also increasing product quality. Several applications of various commercially available robot systems are discussed involving cold (nonradioactive) and hot (radioactive) samplepreparations and glovebox waste removal. Problems encountered in robot programming, parts fixturing, design of special robot hands and other support equipment, glovebox operation, and operator-system interaction are discussed. A typical robot system cost analysis for one application is given.
This report is a summary of the progress and research produced for the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Research Program for calendar year 1996. Contributions from the individual investigators about their projects are included, specifically, physics: treatment planning software, real-time neutron beam measurement dosimetry, measurement of the Finnish research reactor epithermal neutron spectrum, BNCT accelerator technology; and chemistry: analysis of biological samples and preparation of {sup 10}B enriched decaborane.
The document represents a guide for the external decontamination of persons accidentally radio contaminated due to the use, production or transport of radioactive materials. The general conditions, from the medical point of view, to be kept in mind, in the event of accidental overexposures as decontamination treatment and the handling of samples are detailed throughout report. The external contamination without injury in skin or with wound its considered. The distribution of measures and responsibilities for the therapy of the irradiated patients with radioactive materials are enumerated. The preparations of decontaminate solutions are detailed in this work. Moreover, forms for the reception, physical evaluation of the patient and external contamination are presented. (author)
We demonstrate the possibility to fabricate arrays of pores oriented perpendicular and parallel to the top surface of the ZnSe nanotemplate. The control of material conductivity allows one to produce porous ZnSe samples with the mean pore diameter and characteristic skeleton wall thickness from several hundreds of nanometers to about 15 nm. In addition, electrochemical treatment of ZnSe single crystals using photoresist masks allows one to prepare buried porous structures with pores directed parallel to the top template surface, which is especially important for photonic applications.
The decontamination of the urban building surfaces, based on the covering of clay suspensions, has been studied. Contaminated samples for test purpose were prepared by application of radioactive solution which was extracted from the soil of 2 km zone of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant(ChNPP). The cation converting conditions of clay suspensions were determined by the experiments of swelling and stability of the suspensions. According to the experimental results, the most effective clay suspension was the NH{sub 4}-type which had a 7.1 of decontamination factor(DF) on Cs and 4.5 of DF on total nuclides after 3 times covering on slate.
Use of hydrogen absorbing alloys in various practical applications is always connected with the problem of production of starting alloys. The transition from laboratory samples to small-scale production involves the change of furnace and its operation mode and this has an effect on the preparation method of mixture of starting metal. Also, for some applications such as thermosorption compressors the exact values of thermodynamical parameters of reaction are needed. In the present work we present the results of investigation of series Laves phase hydrogen-absorbing alloys which can be promising in for use in different devices. 1 ref.
We present a samplepreparation method for measuring magnesium in individual whole lymphocytes by electron probe X-ray microanalysis. We use Burkitt's lymphoma cells in culture as the test sample and compare X-ray microanalysis of individual cells with atomic absorption analysis of pooled cell populations. We determine the magnesium peak-to-local continuum X-ray intensity ratio by electron probe X-ray microanalysis and calculate a mean cell magnesium concentration of 39 +/- 19 mmol/kg dry weight from analysis of 100 cells. We determine a mean cell magnesium concentration of 34 +/- 4 mmol/kg dry weight by atomic absorption analysis of pooled cells in three cell cultures. The mean cell magnesium concentrations determined by the two methods are not significantly different. We find a 10% coefficient of variation for both methods of analysis and a 30% coefficient of variation in magnesium concentration among individual cells by ...
We present a samplepreparation method for measuring magnesium in individual whole lymphocytes by electron probe X-ray microanalysis. We use Burkitt's lymphoma cells in culture as the test sample and compare X-ray microanalysis of individual cells with atomic absorption analysis of pooled cell populations. We determine the magnesium peak-to-local continuum X-ray intensity ratio by electron probe X-ray microanalysis and calculate a mean cell magnesium concentration of 39 +- 19 mmol/kg dry weight from analysis of 100 cells. We determine a mean cell magnesium concentration of 34 +- 4 mmol/kg dry weight by atomic absorption analysis of pooled cells in three cell cultures. The mean cell magnesium concentrations determined by the two methods are not significantly different. We find a 10% coefficient of variation for both methods of analysis and a 30% coefficient of variation in magnesium concentration among individual cells by ...
The microbial transport simulator (MTS) is a three-dimensional, three-phase, multiple-component numerical model that permits the study of the transport of microorganisms and nutrients in porous media. Microbial parameters incorporated into MTS include: Microbial growth and decay, microbial deposition, chemotaxis, diffusion, convective dispersion, tumbling, and nutrient consumption. Governing equations for microbial and nutrient transport are coupled with continuity and flow equations under conditions appropriate for a black oil reservoir. The model`s mathematical formulations and preparation procedures of data files for conducting simulations using MTS are described. A general background of microbial transport simulation is given in Section I and the governing equations, mechanisms, and numerical solutions of MTS are given in Section II. Explanations for preparing an input data file with reservoir and microbial transport data are described in ...
We obtained the ratios of {sup 134}Cs/{sup 137}Cs and {sup 154}Eu/{sup 137}Cs in spent PWR fuels with gamma scanning equipment of irradiated material examination facility. The fuel segments, of which the burn-up is about 40 GWD/MTU and its cooling time is 8.4 years, are prepared in Post Irradiated Examination Facility and transported to IMEF. By considering of multi-peaks of {sup 134}Cs and {sup 154}Eu, we obtained the relative efficiency of the gamma scanning system as a function of energy. And finally we obtained the number ratios of radioactive nuclides in 72 fuel pellets, radioactive {sup 134}Cs/{sup 137}Cs and {sup 154}Eu/{sup 137}Cs. (author). 4 refs., 27 tabs., 28 figs.
We obtained the ratios of "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs in spent PWR fuels with gamma scanning equipment of irradiated material examination facility. The fuel segments, of which the burn-up is about 40 GWD/MTU and its cooling time is 8.4 years, are prepared in Post Irradiated Examination Facility and transported to IMEF. By considering of multi-peaks of "1"3"4Cs and "1"5"4Eu, we obtained the relative efficiency of the gamma scanning system as a function of energy. And finally we obtained the number ratios of radioactive nuclides in 72 fuel pellets, radioactive "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs. (author). 4 refs., 27 tabs., 28 figs.
The Department of Energy currently has over 100 million liters of high-level radioactive waste in storage at the Savannah River Site (SRS). In the late 1970's, the Department of Energy recognized that there were significant safety and cost advantages associated with immobilizing the high-level waste in a stable solid form. Several alternative waste forms were evaluated in terms of product quality and reliability of fabrication. This evaluation led to a decision to build the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) at SRS to convert the easily dispersed liquid waste to borosilicate glass. In accordance with the NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) process, an Environmental Impact Statement was prepared for the facility, as well as an Environmental Assessment of the alternative waste forms, and issuance of a Record of Decision (in December, 1982) on the waste form. The Department of Energy, recognizing that ...
The Department of Energy currently has over 100 million liters of high-level radioactive waste in storage at the Savannah River Site (SRS). In the late 1970`s, the Department of Energy recognized that there were significant safety and cost advantages associated with immobilizing the high-level waste in a stable solid form. Several alternative waste forms were evaluated in terms of product quality and reliability of fabrication. This evaluation led to a decision to build the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) at SRS to convert the easily dispersed liquid waste to borosilicate glass. In accordance with the NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) process, an Environmental Impact Statement was prepared for the facility, as well as an Environmental Assessment of the alternative waste forms, and issuance of a Record of Decision (in December, 1982) on the waste form. The Department of Energy, recognizing that start-up of ...
The author have prepared a new, fusion-oriented library of multigroup neutron cross sections, scattering matrices, and covariances (uncertainties and correlations). The 74-group library, called COVFILS-2, has been used, or will be used, by neutronics groups at Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL) at the University of California at Los Angeles, and at the Swiss Federal Institute for Reactor Research in the sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of fusion-relevant integral experiments such as the Li/sub 2/O experiment performed at the Fast Neutron Source Facility in Japan and the Lithium breeding module experiment planned at the LOTUS facility in Lausanne, Switzerland. Another intended use of this library is in the estimation of the uncertainty in key performance parameters (such as the breeding ratio) of conceptual fusion reactors. The 14 materials included in the first version of COVFILS-2 are hydrogen, /sup 6/Li, /sup 7/Li, ...
The author have prepared a new, fusion-oriented library of multigroup neutron cross sections, scattering matrices, and covariances (uncertainties and correlations). The 74-group library, called COVFILS-2, has been used, or will be used, by neutronics groups at Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL) at the University of California at Los Angeles, and at the Swiss Federal Institute for Reactor Research in the sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of fusion-relevant integral experiments such as the Li_2O experiment performed at the Fast Neutron Source Facility in Japan and the Lithium breeding module experiment planned at the LOTUS facility in Lausanne, Switzerland. Another intended use of this library is in the estimation of the uncertainty in key performance parameters (such as the breeding ratio) of conceptual fusion reactors. The 14 materials included in the first version of COVFILS-2 are hydrogen, "6Li, "7Li, beryllium, carbon, ...
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Headquarters and associated contractors have developed an IBM PC-based software package that estimates costs, schedules, and public and occupational health risks for a range of mixed-waste management options. A key application of the software package is the comparison of various waste-treatment options documented in the draft Site Treatment Plans prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Facility Compliance Act of 1992. This automated Systems Analysis Methodology consists of a user interface for configuring complexwide or site-specific waste-management options; calculational algorithms for cost, schedule and risk; and user-selected graphical or tabular output of results. The mixed-waste management activities modeled in the automated Systems Analysis Methodology include waste storage, characterization, handling, transportation, treatment, and disposal. Analyses of treatment options identified ...
The full text follows. A thermal neutron imaging facility (TNIF) capable of real time neutron radiography and computed tomography was developed for the University of Texas TRIGA Mark II (UT-TRIGA) reactor from 1994-1998. The facility was developed with a through reactor beam port capable of producing a 5.2 x 10{sup 6} n/cm{sup 2}/s thermal neutron flux with a gamma dose rate of less than 1 mR/s after collimation. The original TNIF included the UT-TRIGA reactor, neutron collimation array, sample positioning system, neutron image intensifier tube, video camera, computerized image acquisition system, and a radiation shield. A 0.7 mm slit in cadmium was easily detectable using neutron radiography, and 1.4 mm diameter holes bored in an aluminum block were easily resolved using computed neutron tomography. Precise lower limits of the system resolution have hot been determined. The TNIF is currently being revamped to begin work ...
In this paper, we report the electrochemical characteristics of a novel cathode material, Li{sub 2}CoPO{sub 4}F, prepared by solid-state reactions. The solid-state reaction mechanism involved in synthesizing the Li{sub 2}CoPO{sub 4}F also is analyzed in this paper. When cycled between 2.0 V and 5.0 V during cyclic voltammetry measurements, the Li{sub 2}CoPO{sub 4}F samples present one, fully reversible anodic reaction at 4.81 V. When cycled between 2.0 V and 5.5 V, peaks occurring at 4.81 V and 5.12 V in the first anodic scan evolved to one broad oxidative, mound-like pattern in subsequent cycles. Correspondingly, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of the Li{sub 2}CoPO{sub 4}F electrode discharged from 5.5 V to 2.0 V is slightly different from the patterns exhibited by a fresh sample and the sample discharged from 5.0 V to 2.0 V. This difference may correspond to a structural relaxation that appears ...
This Final Environmental Impact Statement and Environmental Impact Report (Final EIS/EIR) has been prepared to meet the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Proposed Action includes the construction, operation, and decommissioning of a 48 megawatt (gross) geothermal power plant with ancillary facilities (10-12 production well pads and 3-5 injection well pads, production and injection pipelines), access roads, and a 230-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in the Modoc National Forest in Siskiyou County, California. Alternative locations for the power plant site within a reasonable distance of the middle of the wellfield were determined to be technically feasible. Three power plant site alternatives are evaluated in the Final EIS/EIR.
The Pinellas Plant has been part of the Department of Energy`s (DOE) nuclear weapons complex since the plant opened in 1957. In March 1995, the DOE sold the Pinellas Plant to the Pinellas County Industry Council (PCIC). DOE has leased back a large portion of the plant site to facilitate transition to alternate use and safe shutdown. The current mission is to achieve a safe transition of the facility from defense production and prepare the site for alternative uses as a community resource for economic development. Toward that effort, the Pinellas Plant Environmental Baseline Report (EBR) discusses the current and past environmental conditions of the plant site. Information for the EBR is obtained from plant records. Historical process and chemical usage information for each area is reviewed during area characterizations.
This report, the eighth in a series of annual reports, was prepared in response to congressional inquiries concerning how nuclear regulatory research is used. It summarizes the accomplishments of the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research during FY 1992. A special emphasis on accomplishments in nuclear power plant aging research reflects recognition that a number of plants are entering the final portion of their original 40-year operating licenses and that, in addition to current aging effects, a focus on safety considerations for license renewal becomes timely. The primary purpose of performing regulatory research is to develop and provide the Commission and its staff with the technical bases for regulatory decisions on the safe operation of licensed nuclear reactors and facilities, to find unknown or unexpected safety problems, and to develop data and related information for the purpose of revising the Commission`s rules, regulatory guides, or ...
This report, the eighth in a series of annual reports, was prepared in response to congressional inquiries concerning how nuclear regulatory research is used. It summarizes the accomplishments of the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research during FY 1992. A special emphasis on accomplishments in nuclear power plant aging research reflects recognition that a number of plants are entering the final portion of their original 40-year operating licenses and that, in addition to current aging effects, a focus on safety considerations for license renewal becomes timely. The primary purpose of performing regulatory research is to develop and provide the Commission and its staff with the technical bases for regulatory decisions on the safe operation of licensed nuclear reactors and facilities, to find unknown or unexpected safety problems, and to develop data and related information for the purpose of revising the Commission's rules, regulatory ...
This report discusses the UTR-10 reactor at Iowa State University which went critical on low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel on August 14, 1991. However, subsequent to the criticality experiments the fuel plates started to discolor. In addition, roll pins used to lift the fuel assemblies were discovered to be cracked. It was determined that these problems were due to chemical agents in the primary coolant water. The roll pins were replaced by solid stainless steel pins. The primary coolant was replaced and the reactor is currently in operation. Surveillance specimens will be used to monitor any possible future discoloration. The high enriched fuel (HEU) is being prepared for eventual shipment to a high enriched fuel receiving facility.
This report discusses the UTR-10 reactor at Iowa State University which went critical on low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel on August 14, 1991. However, subsequent to the criticality experiments the fuel plates started to discolor. In addition, roll pins used to lift the fuel assemblies were discovered to be cracked. It was determined that these problems were due to chemical agents in the primary coolant water. The roll pins were replaced by solid stainless steel pins. The primary coolant was replaced and the reactor is currently in operation. Surveillance specimens will be used to monitor any possible future discoloration. The high enriched fuel (HEU) is being prepared for eventual shipment to a high enriched fuel receiving facility.
The Linac Coherent Light Source [1] (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is preparing for the arrival of its first scientific users in the fall of 2009. LCLS is the world's first free-electron in the spectral range 800-8,000 eV, producing intense, sub-picosecond pulses of Xrays with very high spatial coherence. The accelerator facility has been commissioned in stages, beginning in April 2007 [2] with the injector linac and culminating in December 2008 [3] with the first transport of electrons through the complete beam path. On April 10, 2009, the LCLS Project team was rewarded for years of planning, design, construction, and checkout with a dream-come-true: as undulators were placed on the beam path one-by-one, the laser simply turned on without drama in the course of one hour [4...
Preparations are under way for the initial startup and testing of the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). The FFTF Reactor Characterization Program is that part of the startup test plan that deals with the determination of the neutron, gamma ray and thermal hydraulic characteristics of the reactor. This program encompasses measurements and calculations of: neutron spectra, flux and fluence; gamma-ray spectra, dose and heating; fission rate distributions; capture rate distributions; other reaction rates of interest; fission product yields; and thermal hydraulic data. Measurements of these parameters will be made in the reactor core and reflectors, will extend vertically downward to the vicinity of the core support structure and upward to the top of the sodium pool, and will extend radially outward to include in-vessel fuel storage locations and the cavity between the reactor vessel and the concrete wall.
Often oil/gas and other hydrocarbons discovered and produced offshore are transported to onshore facilities via submarine pipelines. The route of such pipelines traverses through coastal/shore approach regions. For a rational/economic design, safe installation and subsequent operation it is of utmost importance to review, evaluate and finalize various environmental hazard such as winds, waves, currents, seabed topography, seabed and sub-bottom soils, seabed erosion and soil accretion. This paper addresses the above described environmental hazards, their assessment and techniques to prepare design parameters which must be used for stability analysis, installation methods, long term operation and maintenance for the shore approaches. Additionally, various proven pipeline installation and stabilization techniques for the shore approach region are detailed. As case histories, three approaches installed in the Dutch North Sea are described.
Research conducted at Brookhaven National Laboratory under the Coastal Meteorology and Diffusion Research Program from 1972 to 1983 is summarized by the following study areas: Diffusion Studies, Boundary Layer Studies, Coastal Meteorology Studies, Air-Sea Interaction Studies, Coastal Transport and Diffusion Climatology, Seabreeze Modeling and Instrument Development, all supported by the US Department of Energy. Studies supported by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the National Science Foundation and the American Petroleum Institute are also described. A summary of a Workshop on Coastal Atmospheric Transport Processes, an account of studies in progress, recommendations for future research and a description of facilities and instrumentation available are also included. A list of all publications and presentations prepared as part of the program is given with abstracts. 7 figures, 1 table.
One chemical reagent, hydrazine hydrate, was discovered to accelerate the growth of semiconductor nanocrystals (cadmium telluride) instead of additional energy, which was applied to the synthesis of high-quality CdTe nanocrystals at room temperature and ambient conditions within several hours. Under this mild condition the mercapto stabilizers were not destroyed, and they guaranteed CdTe nanocrystal particle sizes with narrow and uniform distribution over the largest possible range. The CdTe nanocrystals (photoluminescence emission range of 530-660 nm) synthesized in this way had very good spectral properties; for instance, they showed high photoluminescence quantum yield of up to 60%. Furthermore, we have succeeded in detecting the living Borrelia burgdorferi of Lyme disease by its photoluminescence image using CdTe nanocrystals.
The design of solid breeder blankets is strongly affected by the low values of thermal conductivity and density of ceramic breeder pebble beds. A significant rise of both quantities would enhance the thermal performance and lead to an increased tritium breeding ratio. In order to improve these quantities pretreated lithium orthosilicate pebble material was dry pressed and subsequently sintered. The thermal conductivity of cylindrical pellets was determined by the heat pulse method using a laser flash device. A pebble bed characteristic sample was also investigated in order to check the measurement accuracy in comparison with previous results. Furthermore, two samples of low density cellular ceramics were also prepared by infiltration of polymer foams with a ceramic slurry. The thermal conductivity results show that the values are affected both by the particle size and the sample density. Thermal ...
Superconducting rf cavities are increasingly used in accelerators. Gradient is a parameter of particular importance for the ILC. Much progress in gradient has been made over the past decade, overcoming problems of multipacting, field emission, and breakdown triggered by surface impurities. However, the quenching limit of the surface magnetic field for niobium remains a hard limitation on cavity fields sustainable with this technology. Further exploration of materials and preparation may offer a path to surpassing the current limit. For this purpose, we have designed a resonant test cavity. One wall of the cavity is formed by a flat sample of superconducting material; the rest of the cavity is copper or niobium. The H field on the sample wall is 75% higher than on any other surface. Multipacting is avoided by use of a mode with no surface electric field. The cavity will be resonated through a coupling iris with high-power rf ...
Fe-sheathed MgB{sub 2} tapes with cheap stearic acid, Mg stearate and Zn stearate doping were prepared through the in situ powder-in-tube method. It is found that J{sub c}, H{sub irr} and H{sub c2} were significantly enhanced by doping. Compared to the pure tapes, J{sub c} for all the doped samples was improved by more than an order of magnitude in a high-field regime. At 4.2 K, the transport J{sub c} reached 2.02 x 10{sup 4} A cm{sup -2} at 10 T for the Zn stearate doped tapes and 3.72 x 10{sup 3} A cm{sup -2} at 14 T for the stearic acid doped samples, respectively. Moreover, at 20 K, H{sub irr} for the Zn stearate doped tape achieved 10 T, which is comparable to that of the commercial NbTi at 4.2 K. The improvement of J{sub c}-H properties in doped samples can be attributed to the increase of H{sub c2} resulting from the incorporation of C atoms into the MgB{sub 2} crystal lattice as well as a high ...
SiO/sub 2//Si samplesprepared in 2% and 4% HCl/O/sub 2/ mixtures at 1200/sup 0/C have been annealed in H/sub 2/O/N/sub 2/ ambients at 1200/sup 0/C. The anneals ranged up to 16 hrs in ambients with 4 or 40 ppM H/sub 2/O in N/sub 2/. Rutherford backscattering measurements have been made to determine the amount and location of Cl incorporated in these samples. A linear loss of Cl with annealing time is found for all samples. Changes in the distribution of Cl near the SiO/sub 2//Si interface are found. These changes are interpreted in terms of morphological changes in the third (Cl containing) phase. A significant effect of the H/sub 2/O content of the N/sub 2/ ambient is observed.
To examine and evaluate the predominant and common etiologic agent(s) of urinary tract infection (UTI) in Sukkur city and to determine their current antibiotic susceptibility/resistance trends. Nine hundred sixty six patients out of 1430 abnormal urine reports (showing significant abnormalities such as protein, pus, red cells) were asked to give second sample. The urine samples were examined by both urine test strip (Combur 10 Test, Roche) and microscopically (wet preparation) followed by culture and sensitivity. The culture sensitivity was done on urine samples of which bacterial numbers were estimated as more than 105CFU. The study was conducted at Safeway Diagnostic and Research Laboratory Sukkur and the Department of Microbiology, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur, Sindh from March 2001 to March 2003. Eight hundred fifty-two (88.2%) showed Escherichia spp followed by Klebsiella spp (6.9%) and ...
Trichlorfon is an organophosphorus insecticide, which is extensively being used for protection of fruit crops. Trichlorfon is a thermal labile compound, which cannot be easily determined by gas chromatography (GC) and has no suitable group for sensitive detection by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In this study, a {sup 31}P nuclear magnetic resonance ({sup 31}P NMR) has been described for monitoring of trichlorfon without any separation step. The quantitative works of {sup 31}P NMR spectroscopy has been performed in the presence of an internal standard (hexamethylphosphoramide). Limit of detection (LOD) for this method has been found to be 55 mg L{sup -1}, without any samplepreparation, and the linear working range was 150-5500 mg L{sup -1}. Relative standard deviation (R.S.D.%) of the method for three replicates within and between days was obtained {<=}9%. The average recovery efficiency was approximately 99-112%. This ...
The objective this work was to evaluate the gamma radiation processing for elimination of organic contaminants on industrial wastewater. Standard samples with 17 hydrocarbons (acetophenone, anisole, benzene, chlorobenzene, cyclohexanone, N, N-dimethylaniline, phenol, naphtalene, 1-chloronaphtalene, n-octadecane, p-nitrotoluene, toluene, tetrachloroethane, tetramethylbenzene, n-undecane, m-xylene and o-xylene) was preparated in hexane with total concentration of 1 #mu# g/ #mu# l which was analyzed by gas chromatography. Other sample with the same concentration of these hydrocarbons in acetone was used to contaminate water samples, which were irradiated with gamma radiation from Co-60 between doses 5.0 to 20.0 KGy and dose rate of 1.162 KGy/h. The activity of source was 1470 Ci. Percents destruction of hydrocarbons were: 79.76 % to 5.0 KGy, 85.97 % to 7.5 KGy, 86.24 % to 10.0 KGy, 86.72 % to 12.5 KGy, ...
Research was conducted at Pacific Northwest Laboratory to develop high photosensitivity adaptive optical elements utilizing ion implanted lanthanum-doped lead-zirconate-titanate (PLZT). One centimeter square samples were prepared by implanting ferroelectric and anti-ferroelectric PLZT with a variety of species or combinations of species. These included Ne, O, Ni, Ne/Cr, Ne/Al, Ne/Ni, Ne/O, and Ni/O, at a variety of energies and fluences. An indium-tin oxide (ITO) electrode coating was designed to give a balance of high conductivity and optical transmission at near uv to near ir wavelengths. Samples were characterized for photosensitivity; implanted layer thickness, index of refraction, and density; electrode (ITO) conductivity; and in some cases, residual stress curvature. Thin film anti-ferroelectric PLZT was deposited in a preliminary experiment. The structure was amorphous with x-ray diffraction showing the beginnings of ...
An energy analyzer has been constructed and operated in UHV for the purpose of analyzing the energy of neutral atoms scattered from solid surfaces. The analyzer consists of a LiF single crystal located at an angle close to the normal to the sample crystal so that the diffraction pattern obtained by scanning the LiF crystal yields the energy of the scattered atoms. Two designs which have been used are described. The temperature of both sample and analyzer crystal is near 20 K and once cleaned they can be maintained in the state of initial preparation for many weeks. The sample was a (001) Cu surface in this case. Such an energy analyzer can only be used, in most cases, for He atom scattering although Ne atoms could be used if the scattered intensities were adequate. The detector developed in this study is able to detect about 2 x 10"5 atoms/s. The resolution of the spectrometer depends on the incident ...
Extra-fine powdered activated charcoal has been used as stationary phase (coating layer) in solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The efficiency and reliability of the prepared device have been investigated for the extraction of some volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene isomers (BTEX) from the headspace of water samples. Monitoring of the extracted compounds and further quantitative analysis of the real samples have been performed by capillary GC-FID. Effects of several factors such as temperature, addition of salt, and stirring speed on extraction efficiency and exposure time have been studied. Under optimum conditions, extraction recoveries for these compounds from 50 mL water were >95%. The calibration graphs were linear in the range 5 to 10{sup 4} pg mL{sup -1} and the detection limit for each BTEX compound was 1.5-2 pg mL{sup -1}. The results obtained by use of this porous layer ...
This Site Maintenance Plan has been developed for Pacific Northwest Laboratory's (PNL) Nonnuclear Facilities. It is based on requirements specified by US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 4330.4A, Chapter I, Change No. 4. The objective of this maintenance plan is to provide baseline information for compliance to the DOE Order 4330.4A, to identify needed improvements, and to document the planned maintenance budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 1993 and to estimate maintenance budgets for FY 1994 and FY 1995 for all PNL facilities. Using the results of the self-assessment, PNL has selected 12 of the 36 elements of the Maintenance Program defined by DOE Order 4330.4A, Chapter I, for improvement. The elements selected for improvement are: Facility Condition Inspections; Work Request (Order) System; Formal Job Planning and Estimating; Work Performance (Time) Standards; Priority System; Maintenance Procedures and Other ...
This Site Maintenance Plan has been developed for Pacific Northwest Laboratory`s (PNL) Nonnuclear Facilities. It is based on requirements specified by US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 4330.4A, Chapter I, Change No. 4. The objective of this maintenance plan is to provide baseline information for compliance to the DOE Order 4330.4A, to identify needed improvements, and to document the planned maintenance budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 1993 and to estimate maintenance budgets for FY 1994 and FY 1995 for all PNL facilities. Using the results of the self-assessment, PNL has selected 12 of the 36 elements of the Maintenance Program defined by DOE Order 4330.4A, Chapter I, for improvement. The elements selected for improvement are: Facility Condition Inspections; Work Request (Order) System; Formal Job Planning and Estimating; Work Performance (Time) Standards; Priority System; Maintenance Procedures and Other Work-Related ...
The production of the uranium mine Zirovski Vrh ceased in 1990. The main remaining problem of the remadiation are mine and mill tailings. The uranium mine Zirovski Vrh has one mill tailings site Borst and one waste pile Jazbec. According to the Act on protection against ionising radiation and nuclear safety which was adopted by the Parliament in 2002, they are classified as radiation facilities. Slovenian Nuclear Safety Administration (SNSA) is authorised for issuing a mandatory consent to mining work. The SNSA prepared the initial proposal of content of the safety report for the mine waste pile Jazbec. In 2005, according to the detailed content of this document, the public company Zirovski Vrh Ltd prepared the safety report which was examined by an authorised expert for radiation and nuclear safety. After a careful revision of the safety evaluation report, the consensus for mining work shall be issued by the SNSA. After ...
The U.S. Department of Energy`s (DOE) Environmental Management Office of Science and Technology (EM-50) authorized studies on alternative systems for treating contact-handled DOE mixed low-level radioactive waste (MLLW). The on-going Integrated Thermal Treatment Systems` (ITTS) and the Integrated Nonthermal Treatment Systems` (INTS) studies satisfy this request. EM-50 further authorized supporting studies including this technology and subsystem cost sensitivity analysis. This analysis identifies areas where technology development could have the greatest impact on total life cycle system costs. These areas are determined by evaluating the sensitivity of system life cycle costs relative to changes in life cycle component or phase costs, subsystem costs, contingency allowance, facility capacity, operating life, and disposal costs. For all treatment systems, the most cost sensitive life cycle phase is the operations and maintenance phase and the most cost sensitive ...
This Current Year Work Plan presents a detailed description of the activities to be performed by the Joint Integration Office during FY87. It breaks down the activities into two major work areas: Program Management and Program Analysis. Program Management is performed by the JIO by providing technical planning and guidance for the development of advanced TRU waste management capabilities. This includes equipment/facility design, engineering, construction, and operations. These functions are integrated to allow transition from interim storage to final disposition. JIO tasks include program requirements identification, long-range technical planning, budget development, program planning document preparation, task guidance, task monitoring, information gathering and task reporting to DOE, interfacing with other agencies and DOE lead programs, integrating public involvement with program efforts, and preparation of program status ...
The objective of this task was to obtain powder property data on candidate glass former materials, sufficient to guide conceptual design and estimate the cost of glass former handling facilities as requested under Part B1 of BNFL Technical and Development Support. Twenty-nine glass forming materials were selected and obtained from vendors for the characterization of their physical properties, durability in caustic solution, and powder flow characteristics. A glass former was selected based on the characterization for each of the ten oxide classes required for Envelope A, B, and C mixtures. Three blends (A, B, and C) were prepared based on formulations provided by Vitreous State Laboratory and evaluated with the same methods employed for the glass formers. The properties obtained are presented in a series of attached Tables. It was determined that five of the ten glass formers, (kyanite, iron oxide, titania, zircon, and zinc oxide) have the ...
The fusion materials program has little irradiation effects data at temperatures from 100 to 350 degree C. Near-term machines such as the International Thermonuclear Engineering Reactor (ITER) will expose materials to neutron doses of 38 to 50 dpa at 150 degree C or less. The data base for structural materials must be extended into this range. Also, lower temperatures are needed to investigate the lower bound for tritium release from solid breeder materials. A low temperature test vehicle is proposed for the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF), which will provide test temperatures of 100 to 350 degree C. An 8.5-cm dia. by 100-cm test volume will be instrumented to collect temperature data and provide feedback for control. The spectrum and flux will provide accelerated damage accumulation for structural materials testing and the best available approximation of fusion reactor conditions for solid breeder materials testing. Breeder samples can be ...
Potential exposure of workers to phosphide was examined during an in-depth industrial hygiene survey at the Bunge Corporation, in Kansas City, Kansas, where the gas was used as a grain fumigant. During the study, 14 men were employed at the facility. Tablets of aluminum phosphide were added to the grain mass for fumigation. General dilution ventilation resulted from outside air entering the work areas through ventilation louvers; there was also a local-exhaust ventilation system. Air samples revealed that, when the fumigant dispensers were being filled, workers in the area had significant exposure. At the time of the survey the relative humidity in the facility was high, permitting the reaction to phosphide to occur more readily. The levels of phosphide and respirable dust were reasonably low in the elevators, suggesting that the ventilation system was adequate. The author recommends that workers filling the dispenser with ...
An estimate of the tritium dose to the public in the vicinity of the heavy water research reactor facility at AECL-Chalk River Laboratories, Ontario, Canada, has largely been accomplished from analyses on regularly-collected samples of air, precipitation, drinking water and foodstuffs (pasture, fruit, vegetables and milk) and environmental dose models. To increase the confidence with which public doses are calculated, tritium doses were estimated directly from the ratio of tritiated species in urine samples from members of the general public. Single cumulative 24 h urine samples from a few adults living in the vicinity of the heavy-water research reactor facility at Chalk River Laboratories, Canada were collected and analysed for tritiated water and organically bound tritium. The participants were from Ottawa (200 km east), Deep River (10 km west) and Chalk River Laboratories. ...
A meeting was held on October 15, 16, 17, 1990 to discuss the state of tritium safety and environmental effects. The meeting was organized with the help of the International Energy Agency planning committee consisting of K. Steinmetz, Y. Seki, G. Nardella, and G. Vivian. Representative of tritium production facilities and heavy water reactor power production were also involved. The meeting was organized to address seven topics in tritium safety that were thought to require further work. The topics were: (1) materials science, (2) environmental models, (3) environmental model validation, (4) tritiated organic compounds, (5) human dosimetry, (6) tritium sampling and measurement, and (7) long-term environmental databases.
The radiation control carried out in Atomic Energy Research Institute, Kinki University, for the reactor installation and the tracer/accelerator facilities from April, 1981, to March, 1982, is described. The reactor was operated for total 1057.1 hours at the maximum heat output of 1 W. The persons subject to radiation protection as of April, 1981, were 126 persons in all, including 23 in radiation work and 11 in X-ray work, etc. The contents of this report are as follows: personnel monitoring (health examination, the control of individual exposure dose); laboratory monitoring (the measurement of area dose rate, radioactive concentration in air and water, and surface contamination density); field monitoring (environmental ..gamma..-ray dose rate, radioactive concentration in environmental samples); the use of unsealed radioisotopes, etc.
X-ray diffraction enhanced imaging (DEI) is applied to inspect internal structures of weakly absorbing low-Z sample. How to extract phase information from raw images measured in different positions of rocking curve is the key problem of DEI. In this paper, we present an effective extraction method called polynomial curve fitting method, in order to extract accurate information angular in a fast speed. It is com- pared with the existing methods such as multiple-images statistical method and Gaussian curve fitting method. The experiments results on a plastic cylinder and a black ant at the Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility prove that the polynomial curve fitting method can obtain most approximate refraction-angle values and its computation speed is 10 times faster than the Gaussian curve fitting method. (authors)
Neutron resonance interactions with "1"0"0Mo were studied at a time-of-flight facility. The transmission of two oxide samples (97.4% "1"0"0Mo) was measured at a 78.20 m flight path and the neutron capture cross section was measured at 40.12 m. Resonance analyses yielded parameters of 124 resonances. Capture #gamma#-ray spectra from 11 resolved resonances were measured with a Ge(Li) detector at a 10.45 m flight path. In contrast to neighboring nuclei, partial radiation widths of strong p-wave resonances are not in agreement with valence model predictions.
Lichens were collected in France in the surroundings of a military nuclear facility in Burgundy, near the la Hague reprocessing plant and in an area away from any direct source of contamination. Organically bound tritium (OBT) has been analysed on 18 samples and radiocarbon on 11. It appeared that on the most contaminated spots, the OBT activity in lichens was higher than the background by a factor of 1000 and was still a factor 10-100 at a distance of 20 km from the source. Radiocarbon from la Hague could be traced by lichens. The slow metabolism of lichens makes them suitable for the follow-up of {sup 3}H and {sup 14}C, which have been incorporated by photosynthesis.
The application of a method for determining the temperature of an oxygen-replenished air stream heated to 2600 K by a hydrogen burner is reviewed and discussed. The purpose of the measurements is to determine the spatial uniformity of the temperature in the core flow of a ramjet test facility. The technique involves sampling the product gases at the exit of the test section nozzle to infer the makeup of the reactant gases entering the burner. Knowing also the temperature of the inlet gases and assuming the flow is at chemical equilibrium, the adiabatic flame temperature is determined using an industry accepted chemical equilibrium computer code. Local temperature depressions are estimated from heat loss calculations. A description of the method, hardware and procedures is presented, along with local heat loss estimates and uncertainty assessments. The uncertainty of the method is estimated at {+-}31 K, and the spatial uniformity was measured ...
Environmental data were collected for most environmental media including air, Columbia River water, external radiation, foodstuffs (milk, beef, eggs, poultry, and produce) and wildlife (deer, fish, and game birds), as well as soil and vegetation samples. In general, offsite levels of radionuclides attributable to Hanford operations during 1979 were indistinguishable from background levels. The data are summarized in the following highlights. Air quality measurements of NO/sub 2/ in the vicinity of the Hanford Site and releases of SO/sub 2/ onsite were well within the applicable federal and state standards. Particulate air concentrations exceed the standards primarily because of agricultural activities in the area. Discharges of waste water from Hanford facilities in the Columbia River under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit were all within the parameter limits on the permit.
This quarterly report, for the period April 1-June 30, 1982, summarizes Sandia's activities in coal liquefaction process research. The overall objectives of the program are to understand the mechanisms and determine the role of catalysts in the direct conversion of coal to liquids. Primary emphasis is being given to the Integrated Two-Stage Liquefaction (ITSL) process. Specific tasks include: short-contact time coal liquefaction, mineral matter effects and catalyst studies. During this period, work was done on: the characteristics of a Liquefaction (ITSL) facility at New Brunswick, NJ; the kinetics of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation of pyrene and dihydropyrenes in batch microreactors; the impact of coal cleaning on the effectiveness of two types of slurry phase catalysts; the deactivation of aged catalyst samples obtained from the H-Coal PDU; and a catalyst deactivation model for the H-Coal PDU.
Full text of publication follows: A porous media solution PORFLO has been developed for the 3-dimensional two-phase flow by describing the process facility in Cartesian or cylindrical coordinates. The local porosity fraction is applied for distinguishing the fluid filled volumes from the solid structures. The solid structure contribute the two-phase flow through the wall friction, flow area and heat transfer. Optionally the solid structure may contain primary liquid of steam generators, steam in the higher temperature and pressure to be condensed or electrical heating power. By using these optional boundary conditions three different process facilities have been analysed. The thermohydraulic solution based on 5-equation approach, where the conservation equations are solved for the liquid and gas (vapour) mass, mixture momentum (giving the velocity only for the mixture), liquid and gas energy, is described shortly. In addition to that the ...
Gas-insulated systems employing SF/sub 6/ are utilized in a variety of applications in power delivery systems. Because electric arcs, sparks or corona can decompose SF/sub 6/ into by-products having chemical properties different from SF/sub 6/, environmental concerns arise regarding inadvertent human exposures to electrically-decomposed SF/sub 6/. Biological assays in our laboratory using mammalian cell culture systems have revealed that SF/sub 6/, spark-decomposed under specific experimental conditions, can produce cell death. Chemical analysis of spark-decomposed SF/sub 6/ has identified the major decomposition pathways and by-products. Biological testing of individual by-products or by-product mixtures has indicated that these major decomposition products may not account for the majority of the cell killing effects seen in our assays. Further experiments have suggested that S/sub 2/F/sub 10/ may be produced and accumulate under our specific decomposition conditions and that this ...
Material testing of SPF-sheet is usually done with coupon hot tensile testing. The optimum range of strain rates is determined with stepped strain tests. To overcome the problem of very few available testing facilities and time consuming and costly procedure, cone cup testing has been developed since long. This test can be generated directly in the workshop, no machining of samples is necessary and it is very much related to the real SPF-process. The analysis of suitable temperature and strain rate is done by simple measurement of resulting cone height. This paper describes a unique and novel variant of the above mentioned baseline design. It provides on-line data of the actual status of the cone cup forming resulting from the applied, constant pressure. Strain rate variations as a result from texture or from the alloy-related behaviour is detectable. Thinning and ''hardening'' behaviour of different alloys ...
The effectiveness of Noveko's antimicrobial filter was evaluated after 16 months of exposure to commercial swine production. The experiment involved the use of a scaled model of a commercial swine facility consisting of 2 small chambers connected by a duct containing the filters. A 5 kg naive pig was placed in the reception chamber for a period of 6 hours after aerosolization with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Blood samples from pigs were collected before and after aerosolization to test for the presence of PRRSV RNA. Only blood samples were tested for PRRSV antibodies by IDEXX 2XR ELISA. None of the 9 pigs tested were found to be infected. The study showed that the technology used to integrate the antimicrobial agent into the filter fibers allows the filter combination to withstand extreme weather and endure commercial swine production for at least 16 months, and can maintain its ...
The Hanford Site, Richland, Washington, contains over 1,500 identified waste sites and numerous groundwater plumes that will be characterized and remediated over the next 30 years. As a result of the Hanford Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order, the US Department of Energy (DOE) has initiated a remedial investigation/feasibility study (RI/FS) at the 200-BP-1 operable unit. The 200-BP-1 RI/FS is the first Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) investigation on the Hanford Site that involves highly radioactive and chemically contaminated soils. The initial phase of site characterization was designed to assess the nature and extent of contamination associated with the source waste sites within the 200-BP-1 operable unit. Characterization activities consisted of drilling and sampling, chemical and physical analysis of samples, and development of a conceptual vadose zone model. ...
Marketing of minimally processed vegetables (MPV) are gaining impetus due to its convenience, freshness and apparent health effect. However, minimal processing does not reduce pathogenic microorganisms to safe levels. Food irradiation is used to extend the shelf life and to inactivate food-borne pathogens. In combination with minimal processing it could improve safety and quality of MPV. A microbiological screening method based on the use of direct epifluorescent filter technique (DEFT) and aerobic plate count (APC) has been established for the detection of irradiated foodstuffs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of this technique in detecting MPV irradiation. Samples from retail markets were irradiated with 0.5 and 1.0 kGy using a {sup 60}Co facility. In general, with a dose increment, DEFT counts remained similar independent of the irradiation while APC counts decreased gradually. The difference of the two counts ...
This Executive Summary, Volume I, of the lower Flathead System Fisheries Study Final Report, was prepared to provide a study overview for persons who are not fisheries scientists. The contents provide an introduction to the study and its objectives, a short description of the study area, a discussion of the major findings and conclusions of the study, and the description of fisheries management alternatives available to managers of the lower Flathead system. Technical reports were prepared for those portions of the study dealing with the lower Flathead River and its tributaries, Volume II, and the South Bay of Flathead Lake, Volume III. The annual hydrographic regime of the Flathead system, consisting of upper rivers, lake and lower river, has been modified by the construction and operation of two major hydroelectric facilities, Hungry Horse Dam on the south fork Flathead River and Kerr Dam at the outlet of Flathead Lake. ...
porous silica ceramics were prepared(with HCL catalyst)using H{sub 2}O/TEOS molar ratios of 2.6-59.0, with the EtOH/TEOS ratio fixed. After preparing 9 kinds of sol, the followings were investigated; measurement of the gelation time, thermal analyses by TG/DTA, property analyses of the intermediates by FT-IR and X-ray diffractometry with dried samples, analyses of SiO{sub 2} polymer by FT-IR, the investigation of specific surface area and pore size distribution by N{sub 2}-adsorption isotherm, and structural change of SiO{sub 2} polymer and pore morphology by TEM observation, with samples heat-treated to 500 deg. C. In the concentrations of investigated compositions and catalyst, gelation time showed a minimum at ca. 11 moles of water per one mole of TEOS, the highest degree of polymerization at ca.8-18 moles, and the largest specific surface area at ca. 11 moles, which means that the polymerization ...
The {sup 252}Cf-source-driven noise analysis method has been used in measurements for subcritical configurations of fissile systems for a variety of applications. Measurements of 25 fissile systems have been performed with a wide variety of materials and configurations. This method has been applied to measurements for (1) initial fuel loading of reactors, (2) quality assurance of reactor fuel elements, (3) fuel preparationfacilities, (4) fuel processing facilities, (5) fuel storage facilities, (6) zero-power testing of reactors, and (7) verification of calculational methods for assemblies with the neutron k < l. These previous measurements, performed with a wide variety of multiplying systems, demonstrated the usefulness of the method. The high sensitivity of noise-measured parameters to small changes in fissile systems has been observed in several measurements. This high sensitivity has been ...
This paper describes the modeling of horizontal steam generator with the TRACE code and calculation results of a loss-of-feedwater (LOF-10) experiment at the PACTEL facility. Parallel Channel Test Loop (PACTEL) is an integral test facility for a VVER-440 type nuclear reactor. The main objectives were to prepare a simulation model for its horizontal steam generator with the TRACE thermal hydraulic code and assess different modeling options of the code. PACTEL experiment LOF-10 was chosen for this assessment. The calculation results showed that TRACE is capable in simulating horizontal steam generator behavior both in steady state and during loss-of-feedwater transient. The phenomenon of heat transfer from primary to secondary side, steam superheating and flow reversal in the lowest heat exchange tubes were studied in detail. Different nodalization options were introduced. In the simulation of PACTEL loss-of-feedwater ...
This paper describes the modeling of horizontal steam generator with the TRACE code and calculation results of a loss-of-feedwater (LOF-10) experiment at the PACTEL facility. Parallel Channel Test Loop (PACTEL) is an integral test facility for a VVER-440 type nuclear reactor. The main objectives were to prepare a simulation model for its horizontal steam generator with the TRACE thermal hydraulic code and assess different modeling options of the code. PACTEL experiment LOF-10 was chosen for this assessment. The calculation results showed that TRACE is capable in simulating horizontal steam generator behavior both in steady state and during loss-of-feedwater transient. The phenomenon of heat transfer from primary to secondary side, steam superheating and flow reversal in the lowest heat exchange tubes were studied in detail. Different nodalization options were introduced. In the simulation of PACTEL loss-of-feedwater ...
This report was prepared in response to a request from the Nuclear Energy Research Advisory Committee (NERAC) subcommittee on ''Long-Term Isotope Research and Production Plans.'' The NERAC subcommittee has asked for a reply to a number of questions regarding (1) ''How well does the Department of Energy (DOE) infrastructure sme the need for commercial and medical isotopes?'' and (2) ''What should be the long-term role of the federal government in providing commercial and medical isotopes?' Our report addresses the questions raised by the NERAC subcommittee, and especially the 10 issues that were raised under the first of the above questions (see Appendix). These issues are related to the isotope products offered by the DOE Isotope Production Sites, the capabilities and condition of the facilities used to produce these products, the management of ...
This document is the third annual revision of the plans and schedules for implementing the Federal Facility Agreement (FFA) compliance program, originally submitted in 1992 as ES/ER-17&D1, Federal Facility Agreement Plans and Schedules for Liquid Low-Level Radioactive Waste Tank Systems at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This document summarizes the progress that has been made to date in implementing the plans and schedules for meeting the FFA commitments for the Liquid Low-Level Waste (LLLW) System at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Information presented in this document provides a comprehensive summary to facilitate understanding of the FFA compliance program for LLLW tank systems and to present plans and schedules associated with remediation, through the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process, of LLLW tank systems that have been removed from service. ORNL has a ...
A Lurgi baseline study was requested by the DOE/GRI Operating Committee of the Joint Coal Gasification Program for the purpose of updating the economics of earlier Lurgi coal gasification plant studies for the production of substitute natural gas (SNG) based on commercially advanced technologies. The current study incorporates the recent experience with large size Lurgi plants in an effort to improve capital and operating costs of earlier plant designs. The present coal gasification study is based on a mine mouth plant producing 250 billion Btu (HHV) per day of SNG using the Lurgi dry bottom coal gasification technology. A Western subbituminous coal was designated as the plant food, obtained from the Rosebud seam at Colstrip, Montana. This study presents the detailed description of an integrated facility which utilizes coal, air, and water to produce 250 billion Btu (HHV) per day of SNG. The plant consists of coal handling and preparation, ...
The Fermi National Laboratory (Fermilab) operates the Tevatron proton-antiproton collider at a center-of-mass energy of {radical}s = 1.96 TeV, the is therefore the only collider which is today able to produce the heaviest known particle, the top quark. The top quark was discovered at the Tevatron by the CDF and D0 collaborations in 1995. At the Tevatron, most top quarks are produced via the strong interaction, whereby quark-antiquark annihilation dominates with 85%, and gluon fusion contributes with 15%. Considering next-to-leading order (NLO) contributions in the cross section of top-antitop quark production, leads to a slight positive asymmetry in the differential distribution of the production angle {alpha} of the top quarks. This asymmetry is due to the interference of certain NLO contributions. The charge asymmetry A in the cosine of {alpha} is predicted [14] to amount to 4-6%. Information about the partonic rest frame, necessary for a measurement of A in the observable cos ...
The need for a Combustion and Melting Research Facility focused on the solution of glass manufacturing problems common to all segments of the glass industry was given high priority in the earliest version of the Glass Industry Technology Roadmap (Eisenhauer et al., 1997). Visteon Glass Systems and, later, PPG Industries proposed to meet this requirement, in partnership with the DOE/OIT Glass Program and Sandia National Laboratories, by designing and building a research furnace equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostics in the DOE Combustion Research Facility located at the Sandia site in Livermore, CA. Input on the configuration and objectives of the facility was sought from the entire industry by a variety of routes: (1) through a survey distributed to industry leaders by GMIC, (2) by conducting an open workshop following the OIT Glass Industry Project Review in September 1999, (3) from discussions with numerous glass ...
Full text: Research reactors have been playing a multi dimensional role in areas of nuclear fuel cycle programme, radio-isotope productions, neutron beam research etc. To ensure an efficient, smooth and safe operation of a nuclear research reactor, many reactor physics evaluations are required on routine basis. As part of reactor core management the important activities are maintaining core reactivity status, core power distribution, xenon estimations, safety evaluation of in-pile irradiation samples and experimental assemblies and assessment of nuclear safety in fuel handling/storage. In-pile irradiation requires a prior estimation of the reactivity load due to the sample, heating rate and the activity developed in it during irradiation. For the safety of the personnel handling irradiated samples the dose rate at the surface of shielded flask housing the irradiated sample should be less than 200 mR/Hr. ...
This phase report summarizes the results of field investigations conducted in 1992 at Technical Area 21 of Los Alamos National Laboratory, as prescribed by the RCRA Facility Investigation work plan for the Technical Area 21 operable unit (also known as OU 1106). This phase report is the last part of a three-part phase report describing the results of field work conducted in 1992 at this operable unit. Phase Report lA, issued on l4 June l993, summarized site geologic characterization activities. Phase report 1B, issued on 28 January 1994, included an assessment of site-wide surface soil background, airborne emissions deposition, and contamination in the locations of two former air filtration buildings. The investigations assessed in Phase Report 1C include field radiation surveys and surface and near-surface sampling to characterize potential contamination at 25 outfalls and septic systems listed as SWMUs in the RFI work plan. Based on the RFI ...
Aqueous deoxyhemoglobin solutions (2 mg/ml) were gamma-irradiated by a "6"0Co source in the presence of methanol, ethanol, 1-butanol and t-butanol under N_2O or argon. The effects of the interaction of the particular alcohol radical species with hemoglobin were determined according to the detected spectral alterations in the visible range. The amounts of stable final products in the form of methemoglobin (MetHb) and the sum of hemichromes and cholehemichromes (Hemichr) were estimated in irradiated preparations. For preparations irradiated under N_2O, the radiation yield for MetHb formation was three-fold lower in the presence of ethanol and 1-butanol [G(MetHb) = 0.33[ compared with preparations irradiated in the presence of t-butanol or without alcohol [G(MetHb) = 1.00[. The yield of hemichromes and cholehemichromes in preparations irradiated under N_2O increased in the order: ethanol (G = 0.38), ...
Focused ion beam (FIB) microscopes have become well-established in the semiconductor industry during the past decade, and are rapidly gaining attention in the field of materials science, both as a tool for producing site specific, parallel sided transmission electron microscope (TEM) specimens and as stand alone specimen preparation and imaging systems. FIB secondary electron imaging (SEI) of nickel-based alloys, such as commercially produced Alloy 600 (approximately Ni 15Cr 10Fe 0.5C), has been demonstrated to show a high degree of sensitivity to the presence of deformation in the alloy, and FIB secondary ion imaging (SII) is particularly useful for identifying the presence of grain boundary corrosion, as secondary ion yields from metallic specimens can increase by three orders of magnitude in the presence of oxygen. This 'oxygen enhanced yield', makes FIB SII ideal for detection of corrosion at grain boundaries down to thicknesses of only a few tens of ...
Superconducting MgB{sub 2} samples were prepared by the sintering of a mixture of fine Mg (or Mg alloy) powder produced by gas-atomization and B powder. The single MgB{sub 2} phase with a superconducting onset temperature of 38 K was obtained by sintering at 1073 K for the pure Mg or AZ31 alloy powders. In the case of AZ31, the superconducting MgB{sub 2} was obtained by sintering at a low temperature of 873 K for 50 h although a long sintering time of 100 h is needed to obtain a single MgB{sub 2} phase for Mg powder. This indicates that the AZ31 alloy enhances a formation rate of superconducting MgB{sub 2} at the low temperature through the formation of the partial melting phase. Thus, the gas-atomized fine Mg or AZ31 alloy powders are useful for preparation of a superconducting MgB{sub 2} and in particular AZ31 alloy is effective for the low temperature fabrication of MgB{sub 2}. (orig.)
The identification of crystallographic phases in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been limited by the lack of a simple way to obtain electron diffraction data of an unknown while observing the micro structure of the specimen. With the development of Charge Coupled Device (CCD) based detectors, backscattered electron Kikuchi patterns (BEKP), alternately referred to as electron backscattered diffraction patterns (EBSP), can be easily collected. Previously, BEKP has been limited to crystallographic orientation studies due to the poor pattern quality collected with video rate detector systems. With CCD detectors, a typical BEKP can now be acquired from a micron or sub-micron-sized crystal using an exposure time of 1-10 seconds with an accelerating voltage of 10-40 kV and a beam current as low as 0.1 nA. Crystallographic phase analysis using BEKP is unique in that the properly equipped SEM permits high magnification images, BEKP`s, and elemental information to be collected from ...
The design of a gaging head for a portable radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analyzer is described. The gaging head is designed as a construction unit system which enables the application of lateral reflexion geometry as well as of coaxial geometry. It is designed so that adjustment from one geometry to the other is labour and time saving. The selection of characteristic radiation is performed by a couple of Ross' differential filters. These filters are prepared by a novel technique developed by our laboratory. The filter exchange is effected by the longitudinal move of the couple of filters encapsulated in a holder. The shift of the filters is controlled by means of a triggering mechanism situated in the body of the gaging head handle. This design makes is possible to handle the gaging head during measurements with one hand. A simple interchange of the absorption filter for the transmissive filter allows the operator to avoid any unwanted shift of the head during ...
Buried silicon carbide (SiC) microstructures with lateral dimensions in the #mu#m range were formed by high-dose projection of 1.5 MeV C"2"+ ions in Si(100) at different doses and temperatures and subsequent annealing for 10 h at 1250 deg. C. Sections of individual SiC microstructures were prepared for cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis using a focused ion beam (FIB). Besides the possibility to select an individual microstructure, the FIB technique has the advantage of producing specimen foils of uniform thickness. Therefore, it was possible to map the carbon concentration of microstructures by energy filtered TEM (EFTEM) using the C_K absorption edge without the need of any sample thickness correction. Local overstoichiometric (>50%) carbon concentrations are shown to be correlated to the formation of an amorphous phase in the SiC and to significant swelling visible at the Si wafer surface 2 #mu#m above.
Spices and packaging materials were exposed to gamma irradiation at a dose of 10 KGy. Luncheon was prepared with irradiated or non-irradiated spices. Prepared luncheon was packaged in irradiated or non-irradiated packaging materials. Packaged luncheon was treated with 2 KGy. Treated and untreated packaged luncheon were kept in a refrigerator (1-4 Centigrade) for 12 months. Microbiological, nutritive and chemical characteristics of luncheon were evaluated after processing and during storage; whereas, sensory quality was evaluated only after irradiation. Gamma irradiation decreased the microorganisms counts of spices, packaging materials and packed luncheon and increased the shelf-life of packaged luncheon products. No major differences in moisture, protein, fat, ph value, total acidity, lipid peroxide and volatile basic nitrogen were observed due to irradiation. Sensory evaluation showed that all the combination treated luncheon were acceptable ...
A series of spinel Li4Ti5O12 samples were synthesized via a composite molten-salt method (CMSM) using the mixtures of LiCl and KCl with different L values (L is defined as the molar ratio of LiCl:KCl) as the reaction media. It is found that the melting point of the composite molten salt can effectively influence the formation of particles, and leads to different electrochemical performances of the as-prepare Li4Ti5O12. The investigations of X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size distribution (PSD), Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface area, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicate that the as-prepared Li4Ti5O12 with L = 1.5 is a pure phase, and has uniform homogeneous octahedral shape particles, rather narrow PSD, and high BET surface area. Electrochemical tests show that the optimized Li4Ti5O12 with L = 1.5 has an initial discharge capacity of 169 mAh g-1 and an initial charge-discharge efficiency of 94% at 0.2 C ...
A series of spinel Li4Ti5O12 samples were synthesized via a composite molten-salt method (CMSM) using the mixtures of LiCl and KCl with different L values (L is defined as the molar ratio of LiCl:KCl) as the reaction media. It is found that the melting point of the composite molten salt can effectively influence the formation of particles, and leads to different electrochemical performances of the as-prepare Li4Ti5O12. The investigations of X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size distribution (PSD), Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface area, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicate that the as-prepared Li4Ti5O12 with L=1.5 is a pure phase, and has uniform homogeneous octahedral shape particles, rather narrow PSD, and high BET surface area. Electrochemical tests show that the optimized...
Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on anatase TiO2 hollow spheres (TiO2HS)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposite films are prepared by a directly mechanical mixing and doctor blade method. The preparedsamples are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. The photoelectric conversion performances of the DSSCs based on TiO2HS/CNT composite film electrodes are also compared with commercial-grade Degussa P25 TiO2 nanoparticles (P25)/CNT composite solar cells at the same film thickness. The results indicate that the photoelectric conversion efficiencies () of the TiO2HS/CNT composite DSSCs are dependent on CNT loading in the electrodes. A small amou...
This description of work (DOW) details the field activities associated with the sampling of the vadose zone soils beneath the 1301-N and 1325-N cribs and trenches and will serve as a field guide for those performing the work. These activities are undertaken pursuant to the Hanford Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (Ecology et al., 1994a) Milestone M-16-94-01H-Tl and the June 30, 1994 Milestone Change Request M-16-94-02 (Ecology et al., 1994b). Three vadose zone borings, 1301-N-1, 1301-N-2, and 1325-N-1, will be constructed to investigate the vertical and horizontal distribution of radionuclide contamination in sediments beneath the cribs and trenches. The boreholes are also intended to intersect subsurface areas that may have been contaminated by dangerous wastes, i.e., metals, in effluent disposed during past operation of the facilities. This limited field investigation will provide data for the evaluation of ...
To accomplish the environmental radiological surveillance need of India's ambitious nuclear power programme, Health Physics Division is infusing new technologies and improved analytical techniques for day to day measurements of various radionuclides in different environmental matrices. It is essential to have techniques for measuring the concentration of radionuclides just above the background level since the discharges from the nuclear facilities are very low i.e. in the range of 5-10% of the prescribed discharge limits by the regulatory bodies. In view of developing ultra-sensitive techniques, the aim of ongoing programmes of the division is to meet the challenges of measuring ultra trace level of radioactivity by adopting state of art new instrumentation and improved sample processing techniques. This will allow us to measure the lowest level of radioactivity (3H, 90Sr, 137Cs, 239+240Pu, etc.) in the environment and thereby estimating the ...
Full text: The IRSN has been organizing enquiries with the French population about risk and risk perception for a long time. In 2002, a collaboration between the IRSN in France and the SCK.CEN in Belgium has been set-up to simultaneously (November 2002) organise this poll in both countries. In each country, a representative sample of the population (over 1000 participants per country) has been consulted by Computer Aided Personal Interviews of about 30 minutes with the professional help of commercial companies: BVA in France and Research International in Belgium. The enquiry yields a broad spectrum of interesting data; here only the results relevant for the emergency context will be presented. One should be aware that these data were collected in a 'normal' period; important differences in behaviour may occur given a serious crisis. A first finding is that more than half of the respondents are convinced that an accident as severe as the Chernobyl disaster may ...
This report summarizes the research conducted during Budget Period One on the project ''Improved Natural Gas Storage Well Remediation''. The project team consisted of Furness-Newburge, Inc., the technology developer; TechSavants, Inc., the technology validator; and Nicor Technologies, Inc., the technology user. The overall objectives for the project were: (1) To develop, fabricate and test prototype laboratory devices using sonication and underwater plasma to remove scale from natural gas storage well piping and perforations; (2) To modify the laboratory devices into units capable of being used downhole; (3) To test the capability of the downhole units to remove scale in an observation well at a natural gas storage field; (4) To modify (if necessary) and field harden the units and then test the units in two pressurized injection/withdrawal gas storage wells; and (5) To prepare the project's final report. This report ...
The texture influence on tensile tests of AZ31, one of the common Mg alloys, has been studied. Starting material was a rectangular extruded bar, which has a strong texture. Due to the preparation of three tensile samples with 0 , 45 , 90 to the extrusion direction, the initial bar texture influences differently on the mechanical behaviour under tensile load. This results in a variation of the yield strength (90 MPa and 175 MPa) the ultimate tensile strength (250 MPa - 278 MPa) and the final texture. Experimental texture analysis was completed by texture simulations using the VPSC-model (visco plastic self-consistent). The good agreement between experimental and simulated pole figures allows the determination of the activated deformation modes related to the initial texture. (orig.)
Antibacterial activity of Transition metals (Mn, Co) doped ZnO nanopowders prepared by a DC thermal plasma method against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are investigated. The phase and morphology studies have been carried out by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) respectively. All the samples of the present investigation are found to have hexagonal wurtzite structure and crystallite sizes are found to vary from 25nm to 30nm. Our bacteriological study showed the enhanced antibacterial activity of transition metals doped ZnO nanoparticles than undoped ZnO indicating the great potential of ZnO nanoparticles in relevant clinical and biomedical applications.
We have investigated the superconducting and metallurgical properties of the ternary compounds RPd_2Si_2 and RRh_2Si_2 with R = Y, La, and Lu. All RPd_2Si_2 compounds and LaRh_2Si_2 were found to be type-I superconductors below 1 K. A detailed metallurgical analysis shows that segregation of second phases can easily mask the intrinsic (stoichiometric ratio 1:2:2) intermetallic-compound properties. Two sample-preparation techniques, viz., single crystals and off-stoichiometry, were utilized to establish where bulk superconductivity occurs. The type-I behavior of these compounds is explained with an analogous model as is used for the heavy-fermion superconductors CeCu_2Si_2 and URu_2Si_2.
Research highlights: ? Reports a high protection system for the alloy in corrosive environment. ? Describes an interfacial process with self-healing properties. ? Reports the influence of substrate pre-treatment in the coating performance. - Abstract: In this paper the interface of poly(vinylidene fluoride) coatings prepared by the dip coating method and HF-treated AZ31 magnesium alloy was evaluated. The best performance of this system in corrosion tests compared to ground, as-received and acetic acid cleaned substrates is related to an acid-base interaction at the interface and to interfacial reactions which resulted in a self-healing process. The protectiveness of the samples was investigated using impedance and immersion tests while the coating morphology and interface stability were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and adhesion tests.
Three-dimensional porous Sn thin film electrodes were prepared by electroless deposition on copper foam, then its morphology and electrochemical property were studied by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), electrochemical cycling test and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The porous framework and micro-holes have shown a great structure advantage in restricting severe volume changes when the Sn thin film was employed as anode for lithium-ion battery. The film electrode of sample C with an initial capacity of 676 mAh g{sup -1} showed good cycle performance displayed by retaining a capacity of 313 mAh g{sup -1} after 100 cycles.
Magnetic fluids (MFs), prepared by chemical co-precipitation followed by double layer steric and electrostatic (combined) stabilization of magnetite nanoparticles dispersed in water, are presented. Several combinations of surfactants with different chain lengths (lauric acid (LA), myristic acid (MA), oleic acid (OA) and dodecyl-benzene-sulphonic acid (DBS)) were used, such as LA+LA, MA+MA, LA+DBS, MA+DBS, OA+DBS, OA+OA and DBS+DBS. Static light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, small angle neutron scattering, magnetic and magneto-rheological measurements revealed that MFs with MA+MA or LA+LA biocompatible double layer covered magnetite nanoparticles are the most stable colloidal systems among the investigated samples, and thus suitable for biomedical applications.
The laser cooling and trapping of ultracold neutral dysprosium has been recently demonstrated using the broad, open 421-nm cycling transition. Narrow-line magneto-optical trapping of Dy on longer wavelength transitions would enable the preparation of ultracold Dy samples suitable for loading optical dipole traps and subsequent evaporative cooling. We have identified the closed 741-nm cycling transition as a candidate for the narrow-line cooling of Dy. We present experimental data on the isotope shifts, the hyperfine constants A and B, and the decay rate of the 741-nm transition. In addition, we report a measurement of the 421-nm transition's linewidth, which agrees with previous measurements. We summarize the laser cooling characteristics of these transitions as well as other narrow cycling transitions that may prove useful for cooling Dy.
The dual characteristics in the performance of polymers in wood-polymer composites systems have been pursued with regard to the resolution of mechanical anisotropy of wood and the improvement in dimensional stability. The objective of the present study is to pursue the polymerization mechanism in wood under electron beam irradiation and the temperature dependence of polymer-wood interactions induced at various levels of higher order structure of wood in order to understand the polymer performance. Veneers used in the study were of rotary-cut beech (Fagus crenata Blume) 0.65 mm thick. All samples were oven-dried in vacuo at 80/sup 0/C for 30 hr. The monomers used in the study were methyl methacrylate, styrene, acrylic acid, acrylonitrile, and unsaturated polyester. Experimental details are given. Results are given and discussed.
Photoelectron resonance capture ionization (PERCI) mass spectrometry has been developed for the direct online analysis of organics, including lipids. Analysis is conducted without the need for samplepreparation or chemical derivatization such as methylation, foregoing the use of harmful or toxic chemicals. PERCI is currently being adapted towards the analysis of edible oils. Herein, as a proof of principle of the simplicity and potential utility of this method towards the analysis of edible oils, we present the analysis of the prevalent fatty acids (FA) in Tuscan extra-virgin olive oil along with triolein and linolenic acid (LNA) standards. Ionization of olive oil results in little fragmentation of the prevalent FA, which are measured as their molecular ions, [FA-H]-. The relative concent...
Twelve powders of TiO_2-Y_2O_3-ZrO_2 solid solution of the methodically changed composition were prepared by a coprecipitation-calcination technique. After mixing with phenol-formaldehyde resin, the powders were calcinated for 2 hours at 1200"oC in vacuum. The resultant composite powders contained TiC and non-reacted carbon. Green compacts were sintered in vacuum at 1500"oC for 2 hours. A temperature increase was stopped at 1200"oC to react remains of carbon. There were two carbides in the composites TiC and ZrC. TiC non-stoichiometry depended on carbon content in the system. Phase composition of the depended on of titania and yttria in zirconia solid solution. The majority of the samples showed two tetragonal zirconia phases differing in lattice parameter and tetragonality. (author)
The biological treatment process was selected by Gaz de France (GDF), the French national gas utility, for the de-pollution of an old gas works where the main pollutants are coal tars containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Microorganism-based biological treatment techniques may involve bio-reactors, static ground knolls (where oxygen is brought through drains) and dynamic knolls (where oxygenation is carried out by turning up the soil). Issues on sampling, sorting, process testing, site preparation, process control, etc. are reviewed
The first automated method for the determination of mexiletine hydrochloride - an antiarrhythmic agent - is reported. The method is based on the reaction of the analyte with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in the presence of sulfite in basic medium using a sequential injection (SI) manifold. The reaction product was monitored spectrofluorimetrically (lex=350nm/lem=446nm). A simple and effective on-line dilution approach was adopted in order to expand the linearity and apply the method to assay, dosage uniformity and dissolution tests with minimum samplepreparation. Chemical (pH, amount concentrations of OPA and sulfite) and instrumental variables (temperature, flow rate, injection volumes, etc.) that affected the determination were studied. The developed assay was validated in terms of linearity, ...
Synthesis, morphology, structural and optical characteristics of SiC NWs and SiC/C nanocomposites with an inverse opal lattice have been investigated. The samples were prepared by carbothermal reduction of silica (SiC NWs) and by thermo-chemical treatment of opal matrices (SiC/C) filled with carbon compounds which was followed by silicon dioxide dissolution. It was shown that the nucleation of SiC NWs occurs at the surface of carbon fibers felt. It was observed three preferred growth direction of the NWs: [111], [110] and [112]. HRTEM studies revealed the mechanism of the wires growth direction change. SiC/C- HRTEM revealed in the structure of the composites, except for silicon carbide, graphite and amorphous carbon, spherical carbon particles containing concentric graphite shells (onion-like particles).
Abstract Plant metabolomics has been well established and applied across multiple fields including medicine, biotechnology, and environmental sciences in the post-genomic era. The Chenopodiaceae C3 halophyte Suaeda salsa is the most important plant species in the vegetation of saline soil and even intertidal zone in the Yellow River Delta, which is economically consumed as food, widely used as a bioindicator of environmental stresses (salinity, drought, and pollution) and typically applied for the phyto-remediation of degraded wetland. However, no global studies have been focused on the metabolic profile of this halophyte which is widely applied in environment related research areas. In metabolomics, the first crucial step is the preparation of plant samples. In this work, several strategi...
By applying lock-in thermography imaging, light-beam-induced current imaging, electron-beam-induced current imaging at different stages of samplepreparation, and infrared light microscopy in transmission mode, the physical nature of the dominant material-induced shunts in multicrystalline solar cells made from p-type silicon material has been investigated. It turns out that these shunts are due to silicon carbide (SiC) filaments, which grow preferentially in grain boundaries and cross the whole cell. These filaments are highly n-type doped, like the emitter layer on the surface of the cells. They are electrically connected both with the emitter and with the back contact, thereby producing internal shunts in the solar cell.
By applying lock-in thermography imaging, light-beam-induced current imaging, electron-beam-induced current imaging at different stages of samplepreparation, and infrared light microscopy in transmission mode, the physical nature of the dominant material-induced shunts in multicrystalline solar cells made from p-type silicon material has been investigated. It turns out that these shunts are due to silicon carbide (SiC) filaments, which grow preferentially in grain boundaries and cross the whole cell. These filaments are highly n-type doped, like the emitter layer on the surface of the cells. They are electrically connected both with the emitter and with the back contact, thereby producing internal shunts in the solar cell.
By applying lock-in thermography imaging, light-beam-induced current imaging, electron-beam-induced current imaging at different stages of samplepreparation, and infrared light microscopy in transmission mode, the physical nature of the dominant material-induced shunts in multicrystalline solar cells made from p-type silicon material has been investigated. It turns out that these shunts are due to silicon carbide (SiC) filaments, which grow preferentially in grain boundaries and cross the whole cell. These filaments are highly n-type doped, like the emitter layer on the surface of the cells. They are electrically connected both with the emitter and with the back contact, thereby producing internal shunts in the solar cell.
Consideration is given to the data, demonstrating the effect of ion radiation on strength characteristics of ionic crystals, presented by magnesium oxide. Crystals, prepared in the form of plates, were irradiated by Si"+, Fe"+, C"+ ions by the dose of 10"1"6-10"1"7 ion/cm"2 at room temperature in vacuum. The following characteristics were investigated: dislocation density, microhardness, crack resistance. Investigation of dislocation structure showed, that dislocation density in irradiated sample was 2-3 times higher, as compared to nonirradiated one. Sufficient increase of fracture viscosity of MgO crystals was revealed. It can be conditioned by occurrence of compression stresses in the surface layer, decelerating crack formation and propagation.
In this paper, 0.75Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3-0.25PbTiO3-0.15 wt% MnO (0.75PFW-0.25PT-0.15 wt% MnO) ceramics are synthesized by two different methods, the conventional direct oxide synthesized (DS) method and two-step indirect synthesized (IS) method. The low-field dielectric responses are investigated by using the empirical law, the Curie-Weiss law, the modified-Landau theory and the spin-glass model. Due to the IS method, the lattice structure and the grain structure of the samples are changed. Furthermore, the dielectric properties are evidently modified. It is suggested that the ordering degree of B-site cations is enhanced by using the IS synthesized method.
Nd{sub 40}Fe{sub 30}Al{sub 10}Co{sub 15}B{sub 5} alloys were fabricated by high energy ball milling method under various conditions. Microstructure of the alloys was investigated by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy techniques. Magnetic properties were characterized by hysteresis and thermomagnetic measurements. The high coercive fields up to 2.36 T have been observed on the samples consisting of Nd{sub 2}(Fe,Co,Al){sub 14}B, Nd{sub 6}(Fe,Co,Al){sub 14} and Nd crystallites imbedded in a residual amorphous matrix.
Actinidia deliciosa endosperm-derived callus culture is stable over a long period of culture. This system was used to investigate the ultrastructure of extracellular matrix occurring in morphogenic tissue. Specimens were prepared by different biological techniques (chemical fixation, liquid nitrogen fixation, glycerol substitution, critical-point drying, lyophilization) and observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fresh and wet samples were analyzed with the use of environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). Extracellular matrix was observed on the surface of cell clusters as a membranous layer or reticulated network, shrunken or wrinkled, depending on the procedure. Generally, shrunken membranous layers with a globular appearance and fibrils were noted after critical-point d...
This article describes the chemical preparation of petroleum additives of the MASK type from samples of concentrated alkylsalicylic acids. The obtained additives contain high contents of calcium alkylsalicylate and respective total alkalinities of 156, 131, and 130 mg KOH/g. Sodium alkylsalicylate concentrates, obtained in the form of an aqueous acetone solution, were converted to alkylsalicylic acids by interaction with hydrochloric acid. The solvent was removed from the upper and lower layers by distillation, and the resulting products were analyzed by liquid chromatography. Service tests were performed on a model formulation of the additive in M-11 oil in a Petter AV-1 test stand unit in comparison with commercial MASK additive. The results indicate that the model additive formulation gives approximately the same corrected piston fouling ratings as the commercial additive.
We report significant enhancement in superconducting properties of yttrium substituted Ce1-xYxOFFeAs superconductors. The polycrystalline samples were prepared by two step solid state reaction technique. X-ray diffraction confirmed tetragonal ZrCuSiAs structure with decrease in both a and c lattice parameters on increasing yttrium substitution (with fixed F content). With smaller ion Y in place of Ce, the transition temperature increased by 6 K. Yttrium doping also lead to higher critical fields as well as broader magnetization loops, particularly at elevated temperature.
Abstract This study investigated the effects of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) on in vitro starch hydrolysis, and in vivo blood glucose responses in mice. Four MRPs of various dextrose equivalents were prepared by heating a mixture of hydrolyzed rice starch and glycine at 200C for 4-min. The starch hydrolysis rates of gelatinized rice starch (GRS) decreased as the browning reaction of added MRPs increased. The hydrolysis kinetic constants of the GRS with 5% MRPs were relatively lower than that of GRS without MRPs. Blood glucose responses showed similar tendencies to the in vitro starch hydrolysis results. The activity of digestive enzymes was inhibited by the MRPs. The relative crystallinity of all MRPs (29.9-60.1%) appeared to have higher values than GRS (15.1%). The samples heated to ...
Medium-density polyethylene/multiwall carbon nanotube (MDPE/MWCNT) nanocomposites were produced by a mechanical milling method using a high-energy ball mill. The MDPE and MWCNTs were added to the ball mill at a constant 20:1 weight ratio of ball/powders and milled for 10 h to obtain polyethylene matrix nanocomposites reinforced with 0.5, 1, 2.5, and 5 weight percent of MWCNTs. To clarify the role of both MWCNT content and milling time on the morphology of MDPE, some nanocomposite samples were investigated by using a scanning electron microscope. To evaluate the role of milling on the microstructure of the nanocomposites, very thin films of MDPE/MWCNTs were prepared and studied by transmission electron microscopy. Thermal behavior of these nanocomposites was investigated by using differenti...
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...
The incorporation of (a) Cs/Sr as simulated heat-generating isotopes contained in Purex reprocessing waste, (b) simulated actinides, and (c) simulated Purex waste in sodium zirconium phosphate (NZP) has been studied. The samples were prepared by sintering, by hot pressing and by hot isostatic pressing in metal bellows containers. The short-term chemical durability of the phosphate-based material containing Purex waste was within an order of magnitude of that for Synroc-C, as measured by 7-day MCC-1 tests at 90{degrees}C. The dissolution behavior showed evidence of re-precipitation phenomena, even after times as short as 28 days. Potential for improvement of NZP-based ceramics for HLW management is discussed. 19 refs., 4 figs., 3 tabs.
We report about the fabrication and analysis of the properties of Cr/CrO_x/Cr tunnel junctions and SET transistors, prepared by different variants of direct-writing multilayer technique. In all cases, the CrO_x tunnel barriers were formed in air under ambient conditions. From the experiments on single junctions, values for the effective barrier height and thickness were derived. For the Cr/CrO_x/Cr SET transistors we achieved minimal junction areas of 17 x 60 nm^2 using a scanning transmission electron microscope for the e-beam exposure on Si_3N_4 membrane substrate. We discuss the electrical performance of the transistor samples as well as their noise behavior.
Hierarchical TiO2 hollow spheres had been prepared based on bubble templates by a simple one-step hydrothermal method. The diameter of hollow spheres was about 700nm and the shell thickness of them was 69nm. They were composed of similar spindle- or needle-like building units. Furthermore, hydrothermal time had an important influence on the morphology and crystallinity of hollow spheres. Moreover, the UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectra of TiO2 hollow spheres heated at 150^oC for 10h showed the strongest absorption in the UV-Vis region and the Raman spectrum demonstrated the anatase sample. Additionally, a possible formation mechanism of TiO2 hollow spheres was proposed. So this novel and simple method would provide a development direction to fabricate all kinds of inorganic hollow spheres ...
In view of no satisfactory mathematical model is presently available for the dose-response curve of immunoradiometric assay, a three parameter model based on single binding site mass action law has been derived. A curve fitting method based on similar principle of linear robust regression was designed and a software was prepared for use on IBM personal computers. Experiments revealed that the model is applicable to a variety of IRMA systems as well as to time-resolved immunofluorometric assay of hAFP. When there was outlier(s) of the calibration curve, the average bias of unknown samples obtained with this method is significantly smaller than methods using four parameter logistic model or four parameter single site mass action model.
The U.S. Department of Energy Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management, requires a disposal authorization statement authorizing operation (or continued operation) for low-level waste disposal facilities. In fulfillment of these requirements, a disposal authorization statement was issued on October 25, 1999, authorizing the Hanford Site to transfer, receive, possess, and dispose of low-level radioactive waste at the 200 East Area burial grounds and the 200 West Area burial grounds. One of the conditions is that monitoring plans for the 200 East Area and 200 West Area low-level burial grounds be written and approved by the Richland Operations Office. As a result of a record of decision for the Hanford Site Solid Waste Program and acceptance of the Hanford Site Solid Waste Environmental Impact Statement, the use of the low-level burial ground (LLBG) as a disposal facility for low-level and mixed low-level wastes has been restricted to lined ...
The Si_3N_4-rich corner of the phase diagrams for neodymia and ytterbia containing sialons has been investigated by a systematic variation of the m and n values for compositions between 0.5 and 2.0 with a step size of 0.5. Samples requiring nitrides of the rare earth elements have not been prepared. Sintering has been performed at 1800 C for one hour in a nitrogen atmosphere of 1 MPa. The sintered samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis to identify the crystalline phases in equilibrium with sialon. #alpha#- and #beta#-sialon, the 21R AlN polytypoid, and N-melilite M' were found in the Nd containing system. Materials with Yb showed the formation of #alpha#- and #beta#-sialon, and the AlN polytypoids 12H and 21R. The m and n values of the #alpha#-sialon phase have been calculated via their lattice parameters that were refined by a least squares routine. The occurrence and composition of the phases were used ...
Within the framework of a study on the chemical wear behaviour of sialon ceramics a range of compositions were prepared in which the alumina content was varied from 6 to 77 weight percent. The materials were hot-pressed from alumina and silicon nitride powders to a density of at least 97%. The structure and compositions of the phases occurring in these samples i.e. the O' phase, #beta#'-sialon solid solution and especially the X-phase were thoroughly characterized with respect to structure and composition using electron microprobe and transmission electron microscopy techniques. These results will be discussed in the light of earlier phase diagram studies. Some basic properties such as E-modulus and toughness were measured and related to microstructural features. E-modulus as well as toughness are at a minimum for materials with a high content of the X-phase. Oxidation of the materials was studied at 1300 deg C and 1450 deg C using weight gain ...
There is an increased emphasis on hyphenated techniques such as immunoaffinity LC/MS/MS (IA-LC/MS/MS) or IA-LC/MRM. These techniques offer competitive advantages with respect to sensitivity and selectivity over traditional LC/MS and are complementary to ligand binding assays (LBA) or ELISA's. However, these techniques are not entirely straightforward and there are several tips and tricks to routine sample analysis. We describe here our methods and procedures for how to perform online IA-LC/MS/MS including a detailed protocol for the preparation of antibody (Ab) enrichment columns. We have included sample trapping and Ab methods. Furthermore, we highlight tips, tricks, minimal and optimal approaches. This technology has been shown to be viable for several applications, species and fluids from small molecules to proteins and biomarkers to PK assays. PMID:21872661
Commercially available melter technologies were tested during 1994-95 as part of a multiphase program to test candidate technologies for vitrification of the low-level waste (LLW) stream to be derived from retrieval and pretreatment of Hanford Site tank wastes. Seven vendors were selected for Phase 1 testing to demonstrate vitrification of a high sodium content liquid LLW simulant. The tested melter technologies included four Joule-heated melters, a carbon electrode melter, a combustion melter, and a plasma melter. Various dry and slurry melter feed preparation processes were also tested. Various feed material samples, product glass samples, and process offgas streams were characterized to provide data for evaluation of process decontamination factors and material mass balances for each vitrification technology. This report describes the melter mass balance evaluations and results for six of the Phase 1 LLW melter vendor ...
In the present paper, the chemical composition of passive films formed on both phases of two types of duplex stainless steels (UNS S31803 and UNS S32304) is determined at the micro-scale using Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Samples were either mechanically polished (down to diamond pastes) or electrochemically etched in acidic solutions. The micro-electrochemical behavior of samples was then determined in sodium chloride media by means of the electrochemical micro-cell technique (capillary diameters of 30 {mu}m). The results obtained were analyzed considering the passive film chemical composition. Quantitative relationships between electrochemical parameters and the distribution of chromium and iron in the oxide layer were found. Due to differences in mechanical properties between ferrite and austenite, a heterogeneous stress distribution is generated in both phases. A method based on thermal-mechanical simulation was used to quantify ...
In the present paper, the chemical composition of passive films formed on both phases of two types of duplex stainless steels (UNS S31803 and UNS S32304) is determined at the micro-scale using Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Samples were either mechanically polished (down to diamond pastes) or electrochemically etched in acidic solutions. The micro-electrochemical behavior of samples was then determined in sodium chloride media by means of the electrochemical micro-cell technique (capillary diameters of 30 ?m). The results obtained were analyzed considering the passive film chemical composition. Quantitative relationships between electrochemical parameters and the distribution of chromium and iron in the oxide layer were found. Due to differences in mechanical properties between ferrite and austenite, a heterogeneous stress distribution is generated in both phases. A method based on thermal-mechanical simulation was used to quantify surface ...
Clay-based materials can be cold-stabilized using binder and formed by extrusion. This paper deals with the properties of such materials under the influence of silico-aluminous flying ashes addition. Flying ashes are solid industrial wastes produced by coal combustion. Characteristics of ashes bearing clay-based products, such as dimensional stability, water and mechanical resistance, accelerated aging, are considerably improved with respect to simple clay-binder mixtures. This is principally due to a better hydration of the binder in ashes-bearing mixtures because of: a higher free-water availability as a consequence of the smaller specific surface of ash grains, the filler effect of ash grains which do not participate to the reactions, the specific property of silico-aluminous ashes that can fix the lime in presence of water to produce hydrated compounds. These ashes-bearing clay based materials can have the same qualities as classical building materials but their manufacturing ...
The author studied the conditions needed to routinely estimate the radiation dose in chicken bone by repeated re-irradiation and measuring ESR signals. Chicken meat containing bone was {gamma}-irradiated at doses of up to 3kGy, accepted as the commercially used dose. The results show that points in samplepreparation and ESR measurement are as follows: Both ends of bone are cut off and central part of compact bone is used for experiment. To obtain accurate ESR spectrum, marrow should be scraped out completely. Sample bone fragments of 1-2mm particle size and ca.100mg are recommended to obtain stable and maximum signal. In practice, by re-irradiating up to 5kGy and extrapolating data of the signal intensity to zero using linear regression analysis, radiation dose is estimated. For example, in one experiment, estimated doses of chicken bones initially irradiated at 3.0kGy, 1.0kGy, 0.50kGy and 0.25kGy were 3.4kGy, 1.3kGy, ...
Particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) technique has been employed to perform elemental analysis of K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Br and Sr for Syrian medicinal plants used traditionally to enhance the body immunity. Plant samples were prepared in a simple dried base. The results were verified by comparing with those obtained from both IAEA-359 and IAEA-V10 reference materials. Relative standard deviations are mostly within {+-}5-10% suggest good precision. A correlation between the elemental content in each medicinal plant with its traditional remedial usage has been proposed. Both K and Ca are found to be the major elements in the samples. Fe, Mn and Zn have been detected in good levels in most of these plants clarifying their possible contribution to keep the body immune system in good condition. The contribution of the elements in these plants to the dietary recommended intakes (DRI) has been evaluated. Advantages and ...
This experiment was done to determine the effects of irradiation on the physical properties of three kinds of laminated packaging materials, i.e. polypropylene-polypropylene, polypropylene-polyethylene, polyester-polyethylene. Observations were made on pinhole production, leakage, oil resistance, resistance against insect penetration, colour, odour tensile strength, elongation at break, seal strength and tear resistance. The samples were irradiated with doses of 0, 5 and 10 kGy, then stored at room temperature and examined after 0, 3, 6 and 12 months of storage. The results showed that irradiation doses up to 10 kGy, as well as storage up to 12 months, did not create pinholes, or leakage in pouches prepared from laminated films. The resistance of the films to oil and insect penetration, the colour, and the odour were also unchanged. Both irradiation and storage treatments had a significant effect on physical properties of the laminated films. ...
The aim of this study was to search for a sorbent that could act as an extraction phase and as a support for solid-matrix time-resolved luminescence (SMTRL). Four potential sorbents were investigated for this purpose using tetracycline (TC) as a model analyte. Sorbents prepared from C18 silica gel or calcium cross-linked pectin gel were able to extract TC from dilute solutions. Europium(III)-TC complex adsorbed on the surface of C18 generated the most intense TRL signal when measured at {lambda}{sub ex} = 388 nm and {lambda}{sub em} = 615 nm. This method achieved a 1 ng/ml limit of detection (LOD) with a 100 {mu}l sample solution in a repeated spotting mode. Hyphenation of sorbent extraction and SMTRL was demonstrated using C18. This method is suitable for screening of TC in foods or aqueous solutions and can be extended to other luminescent lanthanide-chelating analytes in physiological or environmental samples.
Lithium carbonate pellets are frequently used for estimation of tritium production rate in irradiated samples in fusion blanket neutronics experiment and the activity is measured by liquid scintillation counting technique. In this measurement, it is essential to solve the lithium carbonate pellet as much as possible and to mix the pellet solution into scintillation cocktail homogeneously at stable condition. For this purpose, a novel binary-acid method has been developed to solve lithium carbonate and to mix the pellet solution into scintillation cocktail. High solubility is attained by adopting two acids, HNO_3 and CH_3COOH, and a good compatibility of the pellet solution with scintillator is obtained by emulsion cocktail resulting in high counting efficiency. Defining a product of dissolved mass and counting efficiency as a Figure of Merit (FOM), the present method has higher FOM value than the conventional method and is extremely simple in a ...
The kinetics of {sup 14}C-photosynthate import by developing wheat grains was followed after pulse-labeling the flag leaf with {sup 14}CO{sub 2}. Samples were collected from four successive points along the transport pathway to and within the grain: exuding aphid stylets on the peduncle, exuding grain pedicels, the grain crease tissues, and the liquid contents of the endosperm cavity. In addition, microautoradiographs were prepared of the grain crease tissues during movement of the {sup 14}C pulse into the grain. At all times, sucrose accounted for 93 to 97% of the total {sup 14}C present at all four sampling sites. The main features of the {sup 14}C kinetics could be accounted for by a simple compartmental model consisting of sucrose pools in series. Microautoradiographs of the crease tissues showed fairly uniform labeling of vascular parenchyma at all times, with a sharp gradient in labeling across the chalaza to the ...
This work reports an alternative methodology for the linear attenuation coefficient determination ({mu} {rho}) of irregular form samples, in such a way that is not necessary to consider the sample thickness. With this methodology, indigenous archaeological ceramics fragments from the region of Londrina, north of Parana, were studied. These ceramics fragments belong to the Kaingaing and Tupiguarani traditions. The equation for the {mu} {rho} determination employing the two mean method was obtained and it was used for {mu} {rho} determination by the gamma ray beam attenuation if immersed ceramics, by turns, in two different means with known linear attenuation coefficient. By the other side, {mu} theoretical value was determined with the XCOM computer code. This code uses as input the ceramics chemistry composition and provides an energy versus mass attenuation coefficient table. In order to validate the two mean method validation, five ceramics ...
Full text: Based on experience with nuclear material confiscated in Hungary from illicit trafficking activities in the nineties it has been decided that traditional gamma-spectrometry should be complemented by destructive analytical techniques. The 17/1996 (I. 31.) Korm. Governmental Decree delegated the identification, categorization and characterization tasks to the Institute of Isotopes, Budapest. Routine gamma-spectrometric methods have been further developed aiming at the i) age (production date) determination of seized samples and complete (nondismountable) uranium-bearing items (such as fresh fuel bundles and fission chambers) by HRGS technique, ii) improvement of measurement accuracy and reliability. Starting in 2005 mass spectrometry (ICP-SFMS) and scanning electron microscopy have been implemented to characterize nuclear samples in more detail and to analyze environmental samples both for isotopic and elemental ...
Fuel cells based on solid oxides ('SOFC') are excellent alternative devices for power generation, when they are operated at high temperature, e.g. above 600 C. Having only fixed parts for the power generating part of the device is only one advantage of the fuel cell. Due to their unique design, these devices offer a maximum of efficiency for energy conversion compared to conventional power generating systems, which are mainly based on turbines. One aim of this thesis is the examination of alternative electrolyte and cathode materials for the SOFC applications at reduced temperatures, which means in the temperature range between 600 C and 750 C. For the first main task, several materials from the oxygen ion conducting electrolytes were selected. Different strontium and magnesium doped lanthanum gallate (LSGM) materials with additional transition metal doping were selected and prepared via two different preparation methods. The ...
The Department of Energy (DOE) Subsurface Contamination Focus Area (SCFA) sponsored a technology demonstration of non-traditional in situ vitrification (NTISV) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The project team for this demonstration included MSE Technology Applications, Inc., Geosafe Corporation, and LANL. The technology demonstration involved the performance of two large-scale test melts. The first, referred to as the ''cold'' test, was performed on a simulated absorption bed that contained surrogate contaminants. The cold test was conducted in April 1999. The second demonstration, referred to as the ''hot'' test, took place at LANL's Material Disposal Area (MDA) V in April 2000. The hot test was conducted on a portion of an absorption bed that received radionuclide and metal-contaminated wastewater from a laundry facility and a research laboratory from the mid-1940s to the ...
The decrease mechanic effect on loads being transported, shock load limiters (dampers) are being widely used today. Usually, the materials having 'stress-strain' diagrams (#sigma#-#epsilon#) of compression with a substantial portion, where #sigma# = const., are used as dampers. Most widely used are dampers made of foam polystyrene having just the same compression diagram. Similar strain diagrams can be enlisted for some porous materials, timber under cross compression, perforated metallic crushers and some others. By selecting damper material, the level of transmitted to the protected object pressures can be varied from several to hundreds MPa. Timber, as being widely used and featuring good technologic properties together with low cost, becomes an attractive material to be used as the limiter of shock loads. This paper presents the results of stress-strain sequoia properties (USA deliverable) and birch properties (Volgo-Vyatski region) at dynamic (v = 10 m/s) and quasistatic (v ...
CNPT-3 is the laboratory designation of a strain of bacteria that reproduces best at deep-sea pressures. It was isolated from a sample collected at a 5800 m depth of the Pacific Ocean. This isolation was achieved from a sample that had been retrieved without warning. This year we demonstrated that there are similarly behaving bacteria that can be isolated from samples even when retrieved with decompression. The purpose of this project was to define the temperatures and pressures over which CNPT-3 can exist and function. (1) At 2"0C CNPT-3 is eurybathic from about 1000 to 6500 m, as judged from an only slightly pressure dependent generation time. (2) CNPT-3 is unquestionably barophilic at 2"0C, with doubling times of 9 hours at 580 bars and over 18 hours at 1 bar. (3) At 10"0C, reproduction is adversely affected at 1 bar to the extent that CNPT-3 becomes obligately barophilic at 10"0C. Yet reproduction is enhanced above 280 ...
Silicon on insulator (SOI) structures are promising candidates for the fabrication of VLSI circuits with very high packing densities. The preparation of such structures can now be achieved by high dose implantation of reactive ion species such as oxygen to produce buried layers of SiO/sub 2/ in silicon. In this paper we report experiments to depth profile these layered structures by SIMS. SOI samples have been prepared by implanting (100) silicon wafers with 400 keV molecular oxygen ions at a dose of 1.8x10/sup 18/ O/sup +/ cm/sup -2/. During the implantation the wafers were maintained at temperatures between 325 and 600/sup 0/C, using beam heating, which achieved in situ-annealing and ensured that the top silicon layer remained single crystal. Analysis was carried out on an Atomika DIDA-II spectrometer using 10 keV Ar/sup +/ ions with a low current density of less than 1 mA cm/sup -2/. During analysis negative secondary ...
Wood Plastic Composites (WPCs) have experienced a healthy growth during the last decade. However, improvement in properties is necessary to increase their utility for structural applications. The toughness of WPCs can be improved by creating a fine cellular structure while reducing the density. Extrusion processing is one of the most economical methods for profile formation. For our study, rectangular profiles were extruded using a twin-screw extrusion system with different grades of HDPE and with varying wood fibre and lubricant contents together with maleated polyethylene (MAPE) coupling agent to investigate their effects on WPC processing and mechanical properties. Work has been done to redesign the extrusion system setup to achieve smoother and stronger profiles. A guiding shaper, submerged in the water, has been designed to guide the material directly through water immediately after exiting the die; instead of passing it through a water cooled vacuum calibrator and then through ...
Magnesium-based alloys are among the promising materials for hydrogen storage and fuel cell applications due to their high hydrogen content. In the present work, we investigated the hydrogen release/uptake properties of the Mg-Ti-H system. Samples were prepared from the mixtures of MgH{sub 2} and TiH{sub 2} in molar ratios of 7:1 and 4:1 using a high-energy-high-pressure (HEHP) mechanical ball-milling method under 13.8 MPa hydrogen pressure. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that a relatively large amount of hydrogen (5.91 and 4.82 wt.%, respectively, for the above two samples) was released between 126 and 313 C while temperature was increased at a heating rate of 5 C min{sup -1} under an argon flow. The onset dehydrogenation temperature of these mixtures, which is 126 C, is much lower than that of MgH{sub 2} alone, which is 381 C. The activation energy of dehydrogenation was 71 kJ mol{sup -1}, which is much smaller ...
Burnaid is a sorbalene-based cream containing 40 mg/g of tea tree oil and 1 mg/g of triclosan. This investigation was carried out to determine the effect of Burnaid, a commercial tea tree oil preparation, against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC29212), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC29213), Escherichia coli (ATCC25922), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC27853), with the activity of the base product in the commercial preparation. The organisms were suspended in sterile saline (0.5 McFarland Standard) and inoculated onto horse blood agar (E. faecalis and S. aureus) or Mueller-Hinton agar (E. coli and P. aeruginosa). One hundred microliters of Burnaid unsterilized, Burnaid sterilized and the base product (Tinasolve) were placed in duplicate in wells cut into the agar plates. Sterility and inactivation cultures were also performed on the samples. None of the samples were found to be contaminated with bacteria prior to ...
The commercial solid phase microextraction (SPME) fibers are not stable enough in organic solvent and tend to swell and strip off from the silica fiber in the high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) mobile phase, and therefore the application of SPME coupled online with HPLC is limited. In this study, an SPME fiber coated with single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), prepared by means of electrophoretic deposition, was coupled on line to HPLC for the determination of four endocrine-disrupting compounds, i.e. bisphenol A (BPA), estrone (E(1)), 17?-ethynylestradiol (EE(2)) and octylphenol (OP), in aqueous samples. The results showed that the SWCNTs coating on the prepared fiber did not swell and strip off from the platinum fiber throughout the experiment, thus indicating a high resistance to the HPLC mobile phase, the mixture of water and acetonitrile. The SWCNTs fiber had similar (for OP) or higher (for BPA, EE(2) and ...
This study aimed to correlate the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis of the cellulose contained in a sugarcane bagasse sample pretreated with dilute H(2)SO(4) with the levels of independent variables such as initial content of solids and loadings of enzymes and surfactant (Tween 20), for two cellulolytic commercial preparations. The preparations, designated cellulase I and cellulase II, were characterized regarding the activities of total cellulases, endoglucanase, cellobiohydrolase, cellobiase, ?-glucosidase, xylanase, and phenoloxidases (laccase, manganese and lignin peroxidases), as well as protein contents. Both extracts showed complete cellulolytic complexes and considerable activities of xylanases, without activities of phenoloxidases. For the enzymatic hydrolyses, two 2(3) central composite full factorial designs were employed to evaluate the effects caused by the initial content of solids (1.19-4.81%, w/w) and ...
A solid-state precipitation process was used to prepare superconducting tapes containing an A15 phase, V/sub 3/Ga or Nb/sub 3/Al, in a ductile niobium or vanadium containing BCC matrix. Ingots weighing as large as 30 to 50 gms of V-(14 approx. 19 at. %) Ga and Nb-(13 approx. 22 at. %) Al were prepared by arc-melting, homogenized, quenched, warm-rolled over 99% into tape, and aged at temperatures in the range 600/sup 0/C to 1000/sup 0/C to precipitate the superconducting A15 phase. The features demonstrated by the process are very attractive for practical applications. In the V-Ga system, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies revealed the A15 precipitates in an elongated form. However, for the Nb-Al samples, deformed and aged at 750/sup 0/C, TEM studies revealed A15 precipitation in fine equi-axed particles which formed as a semi-continuous network over sub-grain boundaries formed by the recovery of ...
In January 2001, Husky Oil Operations Limited (Husky), in joint-venture with Petro-Canada submitted a Development Application (DA) to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) for the White Rose Development. This DA was prepared following the Canada-Newfoundland Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Newfoundland and Labrador Act. In December 2001, the C-NLOPB approved the White Rose DA. This document outlined a proposed amendment to the original Development Plan involving an expansion of its White Rose Development in the Jeanne d'Arc Basin on the Grand Bank. The expansion will consist of a subsea tie-back to the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel through the existing Southern Glory Hole (SGH) and utilizing a new glory hole constructed approximately 4 km south of the SGH. The document presented an overview of the development; geology, ...
Carbon nanofiber (CNF) supported cobalt oxide composites as high-capacity anode materials were prepared through a facile, effective method for potential use in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The effects of the calcining temperature on the crystallinity, grain size, specific surface area of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} and phase transformation from Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} to CoO were studied in detail. Both the specific surface area and CNF content in CNF-cobalt oxide composites strongly affect the electrochemical performance of these series composites. The CNF-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} composite with 24.3% CNF pyrolyzed at 500 deg. C in Ar shows an excellent cycling performance, retaining a specific capacity of 881 mAh g{sup -1} beyond 100 cycles. Homogeneous deposition and distribution of nanosized Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles on the surface of CNF can stabilize the electronic and ionic conductivity as well as the morphology of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} phase, which may ...
Carbon nanofiber (CNF) supported cobalt oxide composites as high-capacity anode materials were prepared through a facile, effective method for potential use in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The effects of the calcining temperature on the crystallinity, grain size, specific surface area of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} and phase transformation from Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} to CoO were studied in detail. Both the specific surface area and CNF content in CNF-cobalt oxide composites strongly affect the electrochemical performance of these series composites. The CNF-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} composite with 24.3% CNF pyrolyzed at 500{sup o}C in Ar shows an excellent cycling performance, retaining a specific capacity of 881 mAh g{sup -1} beyond 100 cycles. Homogeneous deposition and distribution of nanosized Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles on the surface of CNF can stabilize the electronic and ionic conductivity as well as the morphology of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} phase, which may ...
A testing program has been conducted by the Westinghouse Hanford Company to confirm the baseline waste form selection for use in Waste Receiving and Processing (WRAP) Module 2A. WRAP Module 2A will provide treatment required to properly dispose of containerized contact-handled, mixed low-level waste at the US Department of Energy Hanford Site in south-central Washington State. Solidification/stabilization has been chosen as the appropriate treatment for this waste. This work is intended to test cement-based, thermosetting polymer, and thermoplastic polymer solidification media to substantiate the technology approach for WRAP Module 2A. Screening tests were performed using the major chemical constituent of each waste type to measure the gross compatibility with the immobilization media and to determine formulations for more detailed testing. Surrogate materials representing each of the eight waste types were prepared in the laboratory. These surrogates were then ...
As its indigenous gas supplies decline, the UK will need to import more gas. In November 2006, the Department of Trade and Industry issued a consultation on revising the consent regime for offshore gas storage and offshore liquefied natural gas unloading. A total of 27 responses had been received by the closing date of 16 February 2007 from a variety of interest parties including developers and their representative organisations, consultants, environmental organisations, maritime organisations, heritage organisations and other public bodies. This report presents the Government's response to the views expressed by these respondents. The majority of respondents supported the Government's proposals to put in place new legislation to permit offshore gas storage activities. Many believed new legislation was necessary to provide the legal certainty necessary ro encourage offshore development and investment in such developments. Non-regulatory solutions were not supported. ...
Universal Oil Products, Inc. (UOP) of Des Plaines, Illinois has contracted A.E. Roberts & Associates, Inc. (AERA) of Atlanta, Georgia to prepare a sensitivity analysis for the development of the Fluidized-bed Copper Oxide (FBCO) process. As proposed by AERA in September 1991, development of the FBCO process design for a 500 mega-watt (MW) unit was divided into three tasks: (1) Establishment of a Conceptual Design, (2) Conceptual Design, (3) Cost Analysis Task 1 determined the basis for a conceptual design for the 500 megawatt (MW) FBCO process. It was completed by AERA in September of 1992, and a report was submitted at that time {open_quotes}Establishment of the Design Basis for Application to a 500 MW Coal-fired Facility.{close_quotes} Task 2 gathered all pertinent data available to date and reviewed its applicability to the 500 MW FBCO process. Work on this task was carried out on a joint basis by the AERA team members: Roberts & ...
In this study, Cu{sub 2}O/Cu composite particles were synthesized using an innovative chemical reduction method without any template and surfactant. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the product mainly consisted of Cu{sub 2}O phase coexisting with a Cu phase. FE-SEM images showed that the octahedral shaped particles were Cu{sub 2}O. The electrochemical performance of the Cu{sub 2}O/Cu particles was investigated with regards to the working electrode material in alkaline solution. The particles had a maximum discharge capacity of 222.9 mAh/g at a discharge current density of 60 mA/g and a high value of 109.1 mAh/g after 50 charge-discharge cycles. Cyclic voltammetry revealed that the reaction between Cu{sub 2}O and Cu is the major electrochemical reaction during the charging and discharging process. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed that the formation of Cu{sub 2}O on the surface of Cu particles increased the contact resistance and the charge transfer ...
The financial evaluation of capital and operating cost estimates for a dry coke quenching facility installation indicates a marginal return on investment if the evaluation is based exclusively on steam credits. However, the potential improvements in environmental emissions and reported, but unverified, blast furnace operations may justify the expenditure. The Russian and Japanese claim of 2 to 4% reduction in blast furnace coke usage with up to 4% increase in iron production has not been demonstrated in the domestic steel industry and, therefore, is not included in the financial analysis. A 2% coke reduction represents a savings of approximately $0.81 per ton of hot metal produced or an additional annual credit of $1,800,000 for dry coke quenching, exclusive of productivity gains. Additional credit of this magnitude would increase the estimated discounted cash flow return from 10% to approximately 16% for the estimated capital expenditure of $21,742,652. The ...
In October 1980, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. began a three year contract with the DOE: Catalyst and Reactor Development for a Liquid Phase Fischer-Tropsch Process. The program contains four major tasks: (1) Project Work Plan, (2) Slurry Catalyst Development, (3) Slurry Reactor Design Studies, and (4) Pilot Facility Design. This report describes work on Tasks 2 and 3 carried out in the third quarter of the contract. In Task 2, the computerized search of the Fischer-Tropsch literature was continued, and improvements were made in data processing programs. Shakedown tests were completed on the first 300 ml slurry reactor, and construction of the second and third reactors began. Five modified conventional slurry catalysts were prepared, and two batches were tested in the gas phase giving information on selectivity as a function of composition and activation. Four supported cluster catalyst were synthesized, and seven were tested in the gas ...
The objective of this report was to evaluate four possible alternative methods of preparing and packaging spent fuel assemblies for geologic disposal against the Reference Process of unmodified spent fuel. The four alternative processes were: (1) End fitting removal, (2) Fission gas venting and resealing, (3) Fuel bundle disassembly and close packing of fuel pins, and (4) Fuel shearing and immobilization. Systems analysis was used to develop a basis of comparison of the alternatives. Conceptual processes and facility layouts were devised for each of the alternatives, based on technology deemed feasible for the purpose. Assessments were made of 15 principal attributes from the technical, operational, safety/risk, and economic considerations related to each of the alternatives, including both the surface packaging and underground repository operations. Specific attributes of the alternative processes were evaluated by assigning a number for each ...
Measurements using radioactive targets are important for the determination of key reaction path ways associated with the synthesis of the elements in nuclear astrophysics (sprocess), advanced fuel cycle initiative (transmutation of radioactive waste), and stockpile stewardship. High precision capture cross-section measurements are needed to interpret observations, predict elemental or isotopical ratios, and unobserved abundances. There are two new detector systems that are presently being commissioned at Los Alamos National Laboratory for very precise measurements of (n,{gamma}) and (n,f) cross-sections using small quantities of radioactive samples. DANCE (Detector for Advanced Neutron-Capture Experiments), a 4 {pi} gamma array made up of 160 BaF{sub 2} detectors, is designed to measure neutron capture cross-sections of unstable nuclei in the low-energy range (thermal to {approx}500 keV). The high granularity and high detection efficiency of DANCE, combined with ...
Samarium cobaltite ceramic perovskites, with and without platinum particles dispersion, are possible candidates as electrode for electrochemical conversion of hydrocarbon and for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (ITSOFC). In this work, samarium cobaltites were synthesized by the combustion method using cobalt, and samarium nitrates as cation precursors and urea as fuel. For containing-platinum compositions Pt (II) acetyl acetonate was also employed as precursor. The effect of Sr on the phase formation and its electrical behavior is also studied. Specific surface area (BET), SEM-EDX, TEM and XRD analysis are used to characterize the powders obtained. Powders were pressed into pellets and sintered in air in the temperature range of 1200 -1400 C. Electrical impedance spectroscopy studies (EIS) are performed on sintered samples. The as-prepared powders showed an amorphous structure and by TEM a very small particle size ...
This report documents the Mixed Waste Focus Area (MWFA)-sponsored Alternative Technology Workshop held in Salt Lake City, Utah, from January 24--27, 1995. The primary workshop goal was identifying potential applications for emerging technologies within the Options Analysis Team (OAT) ''wise'' configuration. Consistent with the scope of the OAT analysis, the review was limited to the Mixed Low-Level Waste (MLLW) fraction of DOE's mixed waste inventory. The Los Alamos team prepared workshop materials (databases and compilations) to be used as bases for participant review and recommendations. These materials derived from the Mixed Waste Inventory Report (MWIR) data base (May 1994), the Draft Site Treatment Plan (DSTP) data base, and the OAT treatment facility configuration of December 7, 1994. In reviewing workshop results, the reader should note several caveats regarding data limitations. Link-up of the MWIR and DSTP data bases, while ...
The Heat Cycle Research Program, which is being conducted for the Department of Energy, has as its objective the development of the technology for effecting the improved utilization of moderate temperature geothermal resources. To meet this objective, the program has as one of its goals to improve the performance of geothermal binary cycles to levels approaching the practicable thermodynamic maximum. In pursuit of this goal, tests are being conducted at the Heat Cycle Research Facility located at the DOE Geothermal Test Facility, East Mesa, California. The current testing involves the investigation of binary power cycle performance utilizing mixtures of non-adjacent hydrocarbons as the working fluids, with supercritical vaporization and in-tube condensation of the working fluid. In addition to the present test program, preparations are being made to investigate the binary cycle performance improvements which can be achieved ...
This paper provides guidance in the definition, documentation, measurement, enhancement of processes, and validation of a strategic plan for configuration management (CM). The approach and methodology used in establishing a strategic plan is the same for any enterprise, including the Department of Energy (DOE), commercial nuclear plants, the Department of Defense (DOD), or large industrial complexes. The principles and techniques presented are used world wide by some of the largest corporations. The authors used industry knowledge and the areas of their current employment to illustrate and provide examples. Developing a strategic configuration and information management plan for DOE Idaho Field Office (DOE-ID) facilities is discussed in this paper. A good knowledge of CM principles is the key to successful strategic planning. This paper will describe and define CM elements, and discuss how CM integrates the facility's physical configuration, ...
The purpose of the present study was to prepare a novel domperidone hydrogel. The domperidone dispersion was prepared by the solvent evaporation method. The characteristics of domperidone dispersion...Full Text Available
All the tests have been finished up in the Waste Management and Disposal Facility which has been used for the safety tests of solidified radioactive waste on sea dumping disposal. The decommissioning of this facility was performed for use of radioisotopes. This report describes the plan on decommissioning of facility for use of radioisotopes, the contamination checking methods and measurement of radioactivity, the fore case and practice for amount of generated radioactive wastes, the operation procedures for dismantlement, the safety measures, the expenses for decommissioning and so on. (author)
A radioactive Waste Incineration System (WIS) with suspension combustion is noticed as effective volume reduction technology of low level radiactive wastes that are increasing every year. In order to demonstrate the decontamination efficiency of ceramic filter used on WIS, this test has been carried out with the test facilities as joint research of Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI) and Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. Miscellaneous combustible waste and power resin, to which 5 nuclides (Mn-54, Fe-59, Co-60, Zn-65, Cs-137) were added, were used as samples for incineration. As the result of the test, it was verified that Decontamination Factor (DF) of the single stage ceramic filter was usually kept over 10/sup 5/ for every nuclide, and from the results of above DF, over 10/sup 8/ is expected for real commercial plant as a total system. Therefore, it is realized that the off-gas clean up system of the WIS composed of ...
A radioactive Waste Incineration System (WIS) with suspension combustion is noticed as effective volume reduction technology of low level radiactive wastes that are increasing every year. In order to demonstrate the decontamination efficiency of ceramic filter used on WIS, this test has been carried out with the test facilities as joint research of Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI) and Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. Miscellaneous combustible waste and power resin, to which 5 nuclides (Mn-54, Fe-59, Co-60, Zn-65, Cs-137) were added, were used as samples for incineration. As the result of the test, it was verified that Decontamination Factor (DF) of the single stage ceramic filter was usually kept over 10"5 for every nuclide, and from the results of above DF, over 10"8 is expected for real commercial plant as a total system. Therefore, it is realized that the off-gas clean up system of the WIS composed of only single ...
Glass produced during the Purex 4 campaigns of the Integrated Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) Melter System (IDMS) and the 774 Research Melter contained a lower fraction of sludge components than targeted by the Product Composition Control System (PCCS). Purex 4 glass was more durable than the benchmark (EA) glass, but less durable than most simulated SRS high-level waste glasses. Also, Purex 4 glass was considerably less durable than predicted by the algorithm which will be used to control production of DWPF glass. A melter run was performed using the 774 Research Melter to determine if the initial PCCS target composition determined for Purex 4 would produce acceptable glass whose durability could be accurately modeled by Hydration Thermodynamics. Reagent grade oxides and carbonates were added to Purex 4 melter feed stock to simulate a higher sludge loading. Each canister of glass produced was sampled and the composition, ...
The neutron radiography system installed at the E-2 experimental hole of the KUR (Kyoto University Reactor) has been used for some NDT applications in the nuclear field. The on-line video image processing system of this facility is introduced in this paper. A 0.5 mm resolution in images was obtained by using a super high quality TV camera developed for X-radiography viewing a NE-426 neutron-sensitive scintillator. The image of the NE-426 on a CRT can be observed directly and visually, thus many test samples can be sequentially observed when necessary for industrial purposes. The video image signals from the TV camera are digitized, with a 33 ms delay, through a video A/D converter (ADC) and can be stored in the image buffer (32 KB DRAM) of a microcomputer (Z-80) system. The digitized pictures are taken with 16 levels of gray scale and resolved to 240 x 256 picture elements (pixels) on a monochrome CRT, with the capability also to display 16 ...
As part of the 1999 NARSTO Northeast Oxidant and Particulate Study (NE-OPS) field campaign, the DOE G-1 aircraft sampled trace gases and aerosols in and around the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Twenty research flights were conducted between July 25 and August 11. The overall goals of these flights were to obtain a mechanistic understanding of O(sub 3) production; to characterize the spatial and temporal behavior of photo-oxidants and aerosols; and to study the evolution of aerosol size distributions, including the process of new particle formation. Within the NE-OPS program, other groups provided additional trace gas, aerosol, and meteorological observations using aircraft, balloon, remote sensing, and surface based instruments (Phillbrick et al., 2000). In this article we provide an overview of the G-1 observations related to O(sub 3) production, focusing on the vertical distribution of pollutants. Ozone production rates are calculated using a box model that is ...
The United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM) tests the quantitative fit of masks which are worn by military personnel during nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare. Subjects are placed in a Dynatech-Frontier Fit Testing Chamber, salt air is fed into the chamber, and samples of air are drawn from the mask and the chamber. The ratio of salt air outside the mask to salt air inside the mask is called the quantitative fit factor. A motion-time study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of the layout and work method presently used in the laboratory. A link analysis was done to determine equipment priorities, and the link data and design guidelines were used to develop three proposed laboratory designs. The proposals were evaluated by projecting the time and motion efficiency, and the energy expended working in each design. Also evaluated were the lengths of the equipment links for each proposal, and each proposal's adherence to ...
The "2"3"3U(n, f) cross-section has been measured at n_TOF in a wide energy range with a dedicated fission ionization chamber. We report here the results from 0.30 meV to 1 MeV neutron energy. The "2"3"3U(n, f) cross-section has been determined relative to a reference sample of "2"3"5U(n, f) measured simultaneously with the same detector. The very high instantaneous neutron flux and the intrinsically low background of the n TOF installation result in an accuracy around 3% in the whole energy range, while the energy resolution of the neutron beam allows for an accurate description of the fission cross-section by means of R-matrix analysis over a wide energy range. The present data provide the basis for a more precise evaluation of the "2"3"3U fission cross-section, and for improving the reliability of databases needed for the design of new energy systems based on the Th/U cycle. (Author)
Remotely-operated SHRIMP dating of zircon is an interesting alternative for dating of zircon crystals. Although it does not represent any technical progress of the geochronological method using the U-Pb system in zircon it is a very useful and cheap facility. The procedure was first used for mass spectrometric analyses involving two international laboratories in Sao Paulo, Brazil and Beijing, China. It was applied to samples of three gneiss-migmatitic rocks from the Ita quarry in the Atuba Complex (located between the Luis Alves and the Apiai Domain) to test previous controversial hypotheses about its evolution. The presence of important archaean and paleo proterozoic components in the complex is confirmed by analyses of zircon found in probably neo proterozoic leucosomes. Diorite intrusion also occurred during the neo proterozoic, associated with the 0.6Ga continental collisions involved in the assembly of Gondwana. The determination of Hf ...
The present article describes a novel synthesis route for nano-sized goethite ({alpha}-FeOOH) using hydrazine sulphate as an additive. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks of synthesized powder matched well with those of {alpha}-FeOOH. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the particles of irregular shape in the range of 1-10 nm. Batch adsorption experiments for fluoride uptake were performed to study the influence of various experimental parameters such as contact time (10 min to 7 h), initial fluoride concentration (10-150 mg L{sup -1}), pH (2-11.6) and the presence of competing anions. The time data fitted well to pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The fluoride removal passed through broad maxima in pH ranges of 6-8. High adsorption capacity of 59 mg g{sup -1} goethite was obtained. The isothermic data fitted well to Freundlich model. The presence of other ions namely chloride and sulphate adversely affected fluoride removal. Fluoride from contaminated water ...
Liquid high-level nuclear waste will be immobilized at the Savannah River Site (SRS) by vitrification in borosilicate glass. The glass will be produced and poured into stainless steel canisters in the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF). Eventually these canistered waste forms will be sent to a geologic repository for final disposal. In order to assure acceptability by the repository, the Department of Energy has defined requirements which DWPF canistered waste forms must meet. These requirements are the Waste Acceptance Preliminary Specifications (WAPS). The WAPS require DWPF to identify the crystalline phases expected to be present in the final glass product. Knowledge of the thermal history of the borosilicate glass during filling and cooldown of the canister is necessary to determine the amount and type of crystalline phases present in the final glass product. Glass samples of seven projected DWPF compositions were cooled following the ...
The neutron radiography system installed at the E-2 experimental hole of the KUR (Kyoto University Reactor) has been used for some NDT applications in the nuclear field. The on-line video image processing system of this facility is introduced in this paper. A 0.5 mm resolution in images was obtained by using a super high quality TV camera developed for X-radiography viewing a NE-426 neutron-sensitive scintillator. The image of the NE-426 on a CRT can be observed directly and visually, thus many test samples can be sequentially observed when necessary for industrial purposes. The video image signals from the TV camera are digitized, with a 33 ms delay, through a video A/D converter (ADC) and can be stored in the image buffer (32 KB DRAM) of a microcomputer (Z-80) system. The digitized pictures are taken with 16 levels of gray scale and resolved to 240 x 256 picture elements (pixels) on a monochrome CRT, with the capability also to display 16 ...
Mixed-conducting ceramic oxides have potential uses in high-temperature electrochemical applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, advanced batteries, sensors, and oxygen-permeable membranes. The Sr-Fe-Co-O system combines high electronic/ionic conductivity with appreciable oxygen permeability at elevated temperatures. Dense ceramic membranes made of this material can be used to separate high-purity oxygen from air without the need for external electrical circuitry, or to partially oxidize methane to produce syngas. Samples of Sr{sub 2}Fe{sub 3{minus}x}Co{sub x}O{sub y} (with x = 0, 0.6, 1.0, and 1.4) were prepared by solid-state reaction in atmospheres with various oxygen partial pressures (pO{sub 2}) and were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electrical conductivity measurements. Phase components of the samples are dependent on cobalt concentration and synthesis pO{sub 2}. Total ...
This paper presents a group's efforts to introduce national newborn screening in Lebanon. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS) technology offers the prospect of utilizing filter paper blood specimens to screen newborns for several metabolic disorders. In order to be cost-effective, it is necessary to have a mandatory newborn screening policy. At present such a policy is not available in Lebanon. A national screening survey for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) was carried out to assess the incidence of this anomaly in the Lebanese population. Such an initiative is essential as a first step for assessing the feasibility and cost of a national screening programme. Coated beads, blood spot standards for quality control and buffer solutions used for assays were prepared in-house to minimize costs. At first, samples of umbilical cord blood spots were assayed for TSH using IRMA technique. Those samples showing borderline or high values of ...
Iron doped semiconducting nanoparticles Sn1-xFexO2 with x=0, 0.001, 0.002, 0.003, 0.004, 0.01 and 0.03 were prepared by a sol-gel method. The X-ray diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy measurements confirm the rutile structure with no impurity phase. The three characteristic lines of electron spin resonance (ESR) are observed in the doped samples for all compositions, which is a clear evidence for rhombic Fe3+ in rutile phase. The line width of ESR increases with increase in Fe concentration due to induced disorder. The spin-pumping effect is observed at temperatures below 250 K for the samples with x=0.01 and 0.03. However, based on the Curie-Weiss susceptibility, iron is in paramagnetic state and is subject to weak antiferromagnetic interaction. Blue shift in the optical band gap is observed with increase in the Fe content. -- Graphical abstract: The ESR spectra reveal that the nature of Fe in Sn1-xFexO2 ...
Samples from three mine tailings, the Hemlo Mine (located in Northern Ontario), the Louvicourt Mine, and the Laronde Mine (both located in Northwestern Quebec) and four different types of hydraulic binder in three different proportions (3, 4.5, 6 per cent of total dry weight of tailings) were used to prepare 33 recipes for cement caulk. The sulphur content of the three tailings is, respectively, 5 per cent, 16 per cent, and 32 per cent. Three of the four hydraulic binders are in fact a mix of two cement types: binder based on Portland cement (CP), binder based on fly ash (FA), and binder based on dross (CL). The fourth binder is based mainly on dross. The coupons of caulk dykes were flushed at 14, 28, 56, and 91 days in a humid chamber. At each of these steps, the samples were characterized for chemical, geochemical, physical, microstructural, and mechanical attributes to better understand the hydrogeochemical properties of ...
The lipid fractions of residues from historical pharmaceutical ointments were analysed by reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization and mass spectrometer detection. The residues were contained in a series of historical apothecary jars, dating from the eighteenth century and conserved at the "Aboca Museum" in Sansepolcro (Arezzo, Italy) and at the pharmacy of the "Real Cartuja de Valldemossa" in Palma de Majorca (Spain). The analytical protocol was set up using a comparative study based on the evaluation of triacylglycerol (TAG) compositions in raw natural lipid materials and in laboratory-reproduced ointments. These ointments were prepared following pharmaceutical recipes reported in historical treatises and used as reference materials. The reference materials were also subjected to stress treatments in order to evaluate the modification occurring in the TAG profiles as an effect of ageing. TAGs were successfully ...
An evaluation of eastern shale oil (ESO) residue as an asphalt additive to reduce oxidative age hardening and moisture susceptibility was conducted by Western Research Institute (WRI). The ESO residue, have a viscosity of 23.9 Pa{lg_bullet}s at 60{degree}C (140{degree}F), was blended with three different petroleum-derived asphalts, ASD-1, AAK-1, and AAM-1, which are known to be very susceptible to oxidative aging. Rheological and infrared analyses of the unaged and aged asphalts and the blends were then conducted to evaluate oxidative age hardening. In addition, the petroleum-derived asphalts and the blends were coated onto three different aggregates, Lithonia granite (RA), a low-absorption limestone (RD), and a siliceous Gulf Coast gravel (RL), and compacted into briquettes. Successive freeze-thaw cycling was then conducted to evaluate the moisture susceptibility of the prepared briquettes. The rheological analyses of the unaged petroleum-derived asphalts and ...
The quantitative determination of oxide concentration by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy is relevant in various fields of applications (e.g.: analysis of ores, concrete, slag). Calibration free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and the multivariate calibration are among the methods employed for quantitative concentration analysis of complex materials. We measured the intensity of neutral and ionized atomic emission lines of oxide materials by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and we modified the calibration free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy method to increase the accuracy. The concentration of oxides was obtained by using stoichiometric relations. Sample materials were prepared from oxide powder (Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, MgO, CaO) by mixing and pressing. The concentration was 9.8-33.3 wt.% Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, 7.6-33.3 wt.% MgO and 33.3-81.2 wt.% CaO for different samples. Nd:YAG laser (wavelength 1064 nm, pulse ...
This paper reports that some regions have prepared for these days of disposal shortage with comprehensive waste plans that include a strong WTE presence. Witness Broward County, Florida's program, 12 years in planning by public and private entities, Broward is the second most populated county in the state, with 1.3 million residents and a heavy tourist population, which, together, produce 1.6 million tons of waste annually. The disposal program includes Waste Management, Inc.'s expansion of a 400-acre Central Disposal Sanitary Landfill, the county's new 588-acre landfill, composting, and curbside pickup for recyclables. And, this south Florida plan would not be complete without the two brand new combustion plants. Clean Air and Water Acts notwithstanding, the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation can induce standards stricter than the federal government's due to the sensitive South Florida ecology. Wheelabrator was ...
This report documents radionuclide air emission from the Hanford Site in 1997, and the resulting effective dose equivalent to the maximally exposed member of the public, referred to as the MEI. The report has been prepared in accordance with reporting requirements in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40, Protection of the Environment, Part 61, National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, Subpart H, National Emission Standards for Emissions of Radionuclides Other than Radon from Department of Energy Facilities. This report has also been prepared in accordance with the reporting requirements of the Washington Administrative Code Chapter 246-247, Radiation Protection-Air Emissions. The effective dose equivalent to the MEI from the Hanford Site`s 1997 point source emissions was 1.2 E-03 mrem (1.2 E-05 mSv), which is well below the 40 CFR 61 Subpart H regulatory limit of 10 mrem/yr. Radon and thoron emissions, ...
US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5820.2A was promulgated in final form on September 26, 1988. The order requires heads of field organizations to prepare and to submit updates on the waste management plans for all operations under their purview according to the format in Chap. 6, {open_quotes}Waste Management Plan Outline.{close_quotes} These plans are to be submitted by the DOE Oak Ridge Operations Office (DOE-ORO) in December of each year and distributed to the DP-12, ES&H-1, and other appropriate DOE Headquarters (DOE-HQ) organizations for review and comment. This document was prepared in response to this requirement for fiscal year (FY) 1994. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) waste management mission is reduction, collection, storage, treatment, and disposal of DOE wastes, generated primarily in pursuit of ORNL missions, in order to protect human health and safety and the environment. In carrying out this mission, waste ...
This Current Year Work Plan presents in detail a description of the activities to be performed by the Joint Integration Office/RI during FY86. It breaks down the activities into two major work areas: Program Management and Program Analysis. Program Management is performed by the JIO/RI by providing technical planning and guidance for the development of advanced TRU waste management capabilities. This includes equipment/facility design, engineering, construction, and operations. These functions are integrated to allow transition from interim storage to final disposition. JIO/RI tasks include program requirements identification, long-range technical planning, budget development, program planning document preparation, task guidance development, task monitoring, task progress information gathering and reporting to DOE, interfacing with other agencies and DOE lead programs, integrating public involvement with program efforts, and ...
The operation of nuclear processing facilities and defense-related nuclear activities has resulted in contamination of near-surface and deep-subsurface sediments with both radionuclides and metals. The presence of mixed inorganic contaminants may result in undetectable microbial populations or microbial populations that are different from those present in uncontaminated sediments. To determine the impact of mixed radionuclide and metal contaminants on sediment microbial communities, we sampled a processing pond that was used from 1948 to 1975 for the disposal of radioactive and metal-contaminated wastewaters from laboratories and nuclear fuel fabrication facilities on the Hanford Site in Washington State. Because the Hanford Site is located in a semiarid environment with average rainfall of 159 mm/year, the pond dried and a settling basin remained after wastewater input into the pond ceased in 1975. This processing pond ...
During third quarter 1994, samples from AMB groundwater monitoring wells at the Metallurgical Laboratory Hazardous Waste Management Facility (Met Lab HWMF) were analyzed for selected heavy metals, indicator parameters, radionuclides, volatile organic compounds, and other constituents. Eight parameters exceeded standards during the quarter. As in previous quarters, tetrachloroethylene and trichloroethylene exceeded final Primary Drinking Water Standards (PDWS). Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exceeded final PDWS in one well. Aluminum, iron, manganese, tin, and total organic halogens exceeded the Savannah River Site (SRS) Flag 2 criteria. Groundwater flow direction and rate in the M-Area Aquifer Zone were similar to previous quarters. Conditions affecting determination of groundwater flow directions and rates in the Upper Lost Lake Aquifer Zone, Lower Lost Lake Aquifer Zone, and the Middle Sand Aquifer Zone of the Crouch Branch Confining Unit were ...
It is necessary to measure strength and creep behavior to guarantee the safe and reliable usage of refractory alloys at extremely high temperatures. In the literature there is very little information available about the properties of Mo-Re alloys at temperatures higher than 1000 C. A special test facility has been designed and built for stress-rupture testing at very high temperatures (up to 3000 C) of refractory metals and alloys in inert atmospheres. - The stress-rupture strength as well as the creep behavior of molybdenum-rhenium alloys with rhenium contents between 41 and 51 wt.% have been determined at temperatures ranging from 1200 to 2000 C, and rupture times of up to 10 hours using this facility. Previous measurements of stress-rupture strength and creep behavior of pure rhenium have been compared with the measurement results of Mo-Re alloys. - The discussion of the values measured is based on metallographic test results and scanning ...
This report presents the preliminary findings of the first phase of the Environmental Survey of the United States Department of Energy's (DOE) Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) and Component Development and Integration Facility (CDIF), conducted September 14 through October 2, 1987. The Survey is being conducted by an interdisciplinary team of environmental specialists, led and managed by the Office of Environment, Safety and Health's Office of Environmental Audit. The team includes outside experts supplied by a private contractor. The objective of the Survey is to identify environmental problems and areas of environmental risk associated with the INEL and CDIF. The Survey covers all environmental media and all areas of environmental regulation. It is being performed in accordance with the DOE Environmental Survey Manual. The on-site phase of the Survey involves the review of existing site environmental data, observations of the ...
While tritium exposure to the site-workers in Wolsung NPP is up to about 40% of the total personnel exposure, Ministry of Science and Technology has asked tritium removal facility for requirement of post heavy-water reactor construction. For the purpose of essential removal of tritium from the Wolsung heavy-water reactor system, a preliminary study on the cryogenic Ar-N{sub 2} and H{sub 2}-D{sub 2} distillation process for development of liquid-phase catalytic exchange cryogenic hydrogen distillation process technology. The Ar-N{sub 2} distillation column showed good performance with approximately 97% of final Ar concentration, and a computer simulation code was modified using these data. A simulation code developed for cryogenic hydrogen isotopes (H{sub 2}, HD, D{sub 2}, HT, DT, T{sub 2}) distillation column showed good performance after comparison with the result of a JAERI code, and a H{sub 2}-D{sub 2} distillation column was made. Gas chromatography for ...
This award provided for an automated computer-controlled goniometer/diffractometer/manipulator with hot and cold stages and data acquisition system that was interfaced with the high resolution Scienta ESCA-300 X-ray photoelectron spectrometer at Lehigh University. The automation allows angular dependent X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) data to be accurately and rapidly collected without the very time-consuming and labor-intensive manual method that was previously required. It also provides for automated multi-sample analyses, collecting both wide survey scans and selected binding energy range analyses, with complete computer control and data storage. This allows 24 hour data collection without requiring the continuous presence of operators. The overall result is a greater productivity for the XPS laboratory, approximately doubling the output of the laboratory. While the automated computer-controlled ...