Sample records for ablation plume propagation

  1. Slowing of Femtosecond Laser-Generated Nanoparticles in a Background Gas

    DOE PAGES

    Rouleau, Christopher M.; Puretzky, Alexander A.; Geohegan, David B.

    2014-11-25

    The slowing of Pt nanoparticles in argon background gas was characterized by Rayleigh scattering imaging using a plume of nanoparticles generated by femtosecond laser through thin film ablation (fs-TTFA) of 20 nanometers-thick Pt films. The ablation was performed at threshold laser energy fluences for complete film removal to provide a well-defined plume consisting almost entirely of nanoparticles traveling with a narrow velocity distribution, providing a unique system to unambiguously characterize the slowing of nanoparticles during interaction with background gases. Nanoparticles of ~200 nm diameter were found to decelerate in background Ar gas with pressures less than 50 Torr in goodmore » agreement with a linear drag model in the Epstein regime. Based on this model, the stopping distance of small nanoparticles in the plume was predicted and tested by particle collection in an off-axis geometry, and size distribution analysis by transmission electron microscopy. These results permit a basis to interpret nanoparticle propagation through background gases in laser ablation plumes that contain mixed components.« less

  2. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rouleau, Christopher M.; Puretzky, Alexander A.; Geohegan, David B.

    The slowing of Pt nanoparticles in argon background gas was characterized by Rayleigh scattering imaging using a plume of nanoparticles generated by femtosecond laser through thin film ablation (fs-TTFA) of 20 nanometers-thick Pt films. The ablation was performed at threshold laser energy fluences for complete film removal to provide a well-defined plume consisting almost entirely of nanoparticles traveling with a narrow velocity distribution, providing a unique system to unambiguously characterize the slowing of nanoparticles during interaction with background gases. Nanoparticles of ~200 nm diameter were found to decelerate in background Ar gas with pressures less than 50 Torr in goodmore » agreement with a linear drag model in the Epstein regime. Based on this model, the stopping distance of small nanoparticles in the plume was predicted and tested by particle collection in an off-axis geometry, and size distribution analysis by transmission electron microscopy. These results permit a basis to interpret nanoparticle propagation through background gases in laser ablation plumes that contain mixed components.« less

  3. Consequences of Femtosecond Laser Filament Generation Conditions in Standoff Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, Sivanandan S.; Yeak, J.; Brumfield, Brian E.

    2016-08-08

    We investigate the role of femtosecond laser focusing conditions on ablation properties and its implications on analytical merits and standoff detection applications. Femtosecond laser pulses can be used for ablation either by tightly focusing or by using filaments generated during its propagation. We evaluated the persistence of atomic, and molecular emission features as well as time evolution of the fundamental properties (temperature and density) of ablation plumes generated using different methods.

  4. Experimental and computational study of complex shockwave dynamics in laser ablation plumes in argon atmosphere

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, S. S.; Miloshevsky, G. V.; Diwakar, P. K.

    2012-08-15

    We investigated spatio-temporal evolution of ns laser ablation plumes at atmospheric pressure, a favored condition for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry. The 1064 nm, 6 ns pulses from a Nd:YAG laser were focused on to an Al target and the generated plasma was allowed to expand in 1 atm Ar. The hydrodynamic expansion features were studied using focused shadowgraphy and gated 2 ns self-emission visible imaging. Shadowgram images showed material ejection and generation of shock fronts. A secondary shock is observed behind the primary shock during the time window of 100-500 ns with instabilities near themore » laser cone angle. By comparing the self-emission images obtained using fast photography, it is concluded that the secondary shocks observed in the shadowgraphy were generated by fast moving target material. The plume front estimates using fast photography exhibited reasonable agreement with data obtained from shadowgraphy at early times {<=}400 ns. However, at later times, fast photography images showed plume confinement while the shadowgraphic images showed propagation of the plume front even at greater times. The structure and dynamics of the plume obtained from optical diagnostic tools were compared to numerical simulations. We have shown that the main features of plume expansion in ambient Ar observed in the experiments can be reproduced using a continuum hydrodynamics model which provided valuable insight into the expansion dynamics and shock structure of the plasma plume.« less

  5. Higher Order Chemistry Models in the CFD Simulation of Laser-Ablated Carbon Plumes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, C. D.; Greendyke, R. B.; Creel, J. R.; Payne, B. T.

    2005-01-01

    Production of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) has taken place for a number of years and by a variety of methods such-as laser ablation, chemical vapor deposition, and arc-jet ablation. Yet, little is actually understood about the exact chemical kinetics and processes that occur in SWNT formation. In recent time, NASA Johnson Space Center has devoted a considerable effort to the experimental evaluation of the laser ablation production process for SWNT originally developed at Rice University. To fully understand the nature of the laser ablation process it is necessary to understand the development of the carbon plume dynamics within the laser ablation oven. The present work is a continuation of previous studies into the efforts to model plume dynamics using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The ultimate goal of the work is to improve understanding of the laser ablation process, and through that improved understanding, refine the laser ablation production of SWNT. Fig. 1 shows a basic schematic of the laser-ablation oven at NASA-JSC. Construction of the facility is simple in concept. Two concentric quartz tubes of 1.5 mm thickness form the inner and outer tubes with inside diameters of 2.2 and 5.08 cm respectively. At one end of the inner tube are located two 60 Hz pulsed lasers operating at 1064 nm and 532 nm wavelength with beam diameters of 5 mm aligned coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the inner quartz tube. For standard nanotube production runs, a 10 ns 532 nm pulse is followed 50 ns later by a 10 ns 1064 nm pulse. Each pulse is of 300 mJ energy. A target of carbon graphite with approximately 1% nickel and cobalt catalysts is located at the other end of the inner quartz tube. In the ordinary processing of SWNT, a base flow of 100 sccm of argon is maintained from the laser location and exits past the carbon target at a pressure of 66.7 kPa. These conditions yield a baseline mass flow through the chamber of 2.723x10(exp -6)kg/s of argon. The whole oven facility is heated to a temperature of 1473 K prior to nanotube production runs. Upon laser irradiation, part of the carbon target ablates immediately and forms a carbon vapor plume that penetrates into the argon base flow towards the laser initially at supersonic velocities. In the previous studies either a single carbon species, C3, was used to model the plume development, or a simplified 11 species carbon model reduced down from the Krestinin and Moravsky model for full fullerene chemistry was used. While both of these options yielded significant results, it was felt that the actual chemistry occ&g in the carbon plume might have a greater affect on the plume than assumed. Indeed, in the earlier attempts at modeling the carbon plume, several thermophysical characteristics could never be matched to experimental observations of plume development - mainly the propagation distance of the plume itself. In the present study, two additional chemistry models will be used to duplicate the previous studies simulations of the carbon plume. The first chemistry model used in this study is again a reduced form of the Krestinin and Moravsky rates. However the highest order carbon species allowed has been increased from C6 to C30 - therefore allowing the simulation of up to a half of the standard C60 fullerene. The second chemistry model investigated is a reduced form of a full carbon nanotube model developed at NASA-JSC. The C30 studies have already been accomplished at the present time, and the reduced SWNT model studies are currently underway. To pursue the current study, one sacrifice had to be made in that the simulation grid spacing had to be increased from 0.5 mm spacing to 1 mm spacing for the sake of computational efficiency since computational effort is proportional to the square of the number of grid points multiplied by the number of species considered. propagation that is far more in line with the experimental results observed by Puretzky et al as shown in Fig. 2. e C6 studies had yielded a far greater propagation in previous studies. In addition, chemical species development with the C30 model indicates that many higher order carbon species are produced outside of the plume proper (indicated by plotting contours of the background argon concentrations in Fig. 3) - this result was not observed in previous studies. In fact, some species primarily occurred outside of the plume itself - as shown for C27 in Fig. 4 when it is compared to Fig. 3. It could be asserted that this has occurred because all of the C27 in the plume had already been consumed in the formation of C30, but this does not seem to be indicated over time. Several other factors that arose in the previous studies have also been made more clear by the use of the higher order chemical models - one being that the use of c6 as an indicator species was mistaken. C6 is the only carbon species in the previous studies that was not injected into the flowfield as a boundary condition; it was therefore hoped that this species would provide insight into the formation of higher order carbon species for comparison to full SWNT production. But, when the plot of total mass in the plume is examined on a species by species basis in Fig. 5, it is seen that Cg was a fairly insignificant contributor to the total carbon mass in the plume and would not provide information on higher order carbon formation. the thermophysical characteristics of the carbon plume as well as simulate the carbon plume using the reduced SWNT model to provide an even better simulation of full chemistry effects upon plume propagation.

  6. Diagnostics of Carbon Nanotube Formation in a Laser Produced Plume: An Investigation of the Metal Catalyst by Laser Ablation Atomic Fluorescence Spectroscopy

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    deBoer, Gary; Scott, Carl

    2003-01-01

    Carbon nanotubes, elongated molecular tubes with diameters of nanometers and lengths in microns, hold great promise for material science. Hopes for super strong light-weight material to be used in spacecraft design is the driving force behind nanotube work at JSC. The molecular nature of these materials requires the appropriate tools for investigation of their structure, properties, and formation. The mechanism of nanotube formation is of particular interest because it may hold keys to controlling the formation of different types of nanotubes and allow them to be produced in much greater quantities at less cost than is currently available. This summer's work involved the interpretation of data taken last summer and analyzed over the academic year. The work involved diagnostic studies of carbon nanotube formation processes occurring in a laser-produced plume. Laser ablation of metal doped graphite to produce a plasma plume in which carbon nanotubes self assemble is one method of making carbon nanotube. The laser ablation method is amenable to applying the techniques of laser spectroscopy, a powerful tool for probing the energies and dynamics of atomic and molecular species. The experimental work performed last summer involved probing one of the metal catalysts, nickel, by laser induced fluorescence. The nickel atom was studied as a function of oven temperature, probe laser wavelength, time after ablation, and position in the laser produced plume. This data along with previously obtained data on carbon was analyzed over the academic year. Interpretations of the data were developed this summer along with discussions of future work. The temperature of the oven in which the target is ablated greatly influences the amount of material ablated and the propagation of the plume. The ablation conditions and the time scale of atomic and molecular lifetimes suggest that initial ablation of the metal doped carbon target results in atomic and small molecular species. The metal atoms survive for several milliseconds while the gaseous carbon atoms and small molecules nucleate more rapidly. Additional experiments and the development of in situ methods for carbon nanotube detection would allow these results to be interpreted from the perspective of carbon nanotube formation.

  7. Plume collimation for laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vertes, Akos; Stolee, Jessica A.

    2016-06-07

    In various embodiments, a device may generally comprise a capillary having a first end and a second end; a laser to emit energy at a sample in the capillary to ablate the sample and generate an ablation plume in the capillary; an electrospray apparatus to generate an electrospray plume to intercept the ablation plume to produce ions; and a mass spectrometer having an ion transfer inlet to capture the ions. The ablation plume may comprise a collimated ablation plume. The device may comprise a flow cytometer. Methods of making and using the same are also described.

  8. Plume collimation for laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

    DOEpatents

    Vertes, Akos; Stolee, Jessica A.

    2014-09-09

    In various embodiments, a device may generally comprise a capillary having a first end and a second end; a laser to emit energy at a sample in the capillary to ablate the sample and generate an ablation plume in the capillary; an electrospray apparatus to generate an electrospray plume to intercept the ablation plume to produce ions; and a mass spectrometer having an ion transfer inlet to capture the ions. The ablation plume may comprise a collimated ablation plume. The device may comprise a flow cytometer. Methods of making and using the same are also described.

  9. Time-resolved imaging of gas phase nanoparticle synthesis by laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Geohegan, David B.; Puretzky, Alex A.; Duscher, Gerd; Pennycook, Stephen J.

    1998-06-01

    The dynamics of nanoparticle formation, transport, and deposition by pulsed laser ablation of c-Si into 1-10 Torr He and Ar gases are revealed by imaging laser-induced photoluminescence and Rayleigh-scattered light from gas-suspended 1-10 nm SiOx particles. Two sets of dynamic phenomena are presented for times up to 15 s after KrF-laser ablation. Ablation of Si into heavier Ar results in a uniform, stationary plume of nanoparticles, while Si ablation into lighter He results in a turbulent ring of particles which propagates forward at 10 m/s. Nanoparticles unambiguously formed in the gas phase were collected on transmission electron microscope grids for Z-contrast imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis. The effects of gas flow on nanoparticle formation, photoluminescence, and collection are described.

  10. Subcellular analysis by laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

    DOEpatents

    Vertes, Akos; Stolee, Jessica A; Shrestha, Bindesh

    2014-12-02

    In various embodiments, a method of laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LAESI-MS) may generally comprise micro-dissecting a cell comprising at least one of a cell wall and a cell membrane to expose at least one subcellular component therein, ablating the at least one subcellular component by an infrared laser pulse to form an ablation plume, intercepting the ablation plume by an electrospray plume to form ions, and detecting the ions by mass spectrometry.

  11. Investigation of plume dynamics during picosecond laser ablation of H13 steel using high-speed digital holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pangovski, Krste; Otanocha, Omonigho B.; Zhong, Shan; Sparkes, Martin; Liu, Zhu; O'Neill, William; Li, Lin

    2017-02-01

    Ablation of H13 tool steel using pulse packets with repetition rates of 400 and 1000 kHz and pulse energies of 75 and 44 μ {J}, respectively, is investigated. A drop in ablation efficiency (defined here as the depth per pulse or μ {m}{/}μ {J}) is shown to occur when using pulse energies of E_{{pulse}} > 44 μ {J}, accompanied by a marked difference in crater morphology. A pulsed digital holographic system is applied to image the resulting plumes, showing a persistent plume in both cases. Holographic data are used to calculate the plume absorption and subsequently the fraction of pulse energy arriving at the surface after traversing the plume for different pulse arrival times. A significant proportion of the pulse energy is shown to be absorbed in the plume for E_{{pulse}} > 44 μ {J} for pulse arrival times corresponding to {>}1 MHz pulse repetition rate, shifting the interaction to a vapour-dominated ablation regime, an energetically costlier ablation mechanism.

  12. Comparative study of the expansion dynamics of laser-driven plasma and shock wave in in-air and underwater ablation regimes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Thao T. P.; Tanabe, Rie; Ito, Yoshiro

    2018-03-01

    We compared the expansion characteristics of the plasma plumes and shock waves generated in laser-induced shock process between the two ablation regimes: in air and under water. The observation was made from the initial moment when the laser pulse hit the target until 1.5 μs. The shock processes were driven by focusing a single laser pulse (1064 nm, FWHM = 13 ns) onto the surface of epoxy-resin blocks using a 40-mm focal length lens. The estimated laser intensity at the target plane is approximate to 9 ×109Wcm-2 . We used the fast-imaging technique to observe the expansion of the plasma plume and a custom-designed time-resolved photoelasticity imaging technique to observe the propagation of shock waves with the time resolution of nanoseconds. We found that at the same intensity of the laser beam, the plasma expansion during the laser pulse follows different mechanisms: the plasma plume that grows in air follows a radiation-wave model while a detonation-wave model can explain the expansion of the plasma plume induced in water. The ideal blast wave theory can be used to predict the decay of the shock wave in air but is not appropriate to describe the decay of the shock wave induced under water.

  13. Ablation plume structure and dynamics in ambient gas observed by laser-induced fluorescence imaging spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miyabe, M.; Oba, M.; Iimura, H.; Akaoka, K.; Khumaeni, A.; Kato, M.; Wakaida, I.

    2015-08-01

    The dynamic behavior of an ablation plume in ambient gas has been investigated by laser-induced fluorescence imaging spectroscopy. The second harmonic beam from an Nd:YAG laser (0.5-6 J/cm2) was focused on a sintered oxide pellet or a metal chip of gadolinium. The produced plume was subsequently intersected with a sheet-shaped UV beam from a dye laser so that time-resolved fluorescence images were acquired with an intensified CCD camera at various delay times. The obtained cross-sectional images of the plume indicate that the ablated ground state atoms and ions of gadolinium accumulate in a hemispherical contact layer between the plume and the ambient gas, and a cavity containing a smaller density of ablated species is formed near the center of the plume. At earlier expansion stage, another luminous component also expands in the cavity so that it coalesces into the hemispherical layer. The splitting and coalescence for atomic plume occur later than those for ionic plume. Furthermore, the hemispherical layer of neutral atoms appears later than that of ions; however, the locations of the layers are nearly identical. This coincidence of the appearance locations of the layers strongly suggests that the neutral atoms in the hemispherical layer are produced as a consequence of three-body recombination of ions through collisions with gas atoms. The obtained knowledge regarding plume expansion dynamics and detailed plume structure is useful for optimizing the experimental conditions for ablation-based spectroscopic analysis.

  14. Morphological changes in ultrafast laser ablation plumes with varying spot size.

    PubMed

    Harilal, S S; Diwakar, P K; Polek, M P; Phillips, M C

    2015-06-15

    We investigated the role of spot size on plume morphology during ultrafast laser ablation of metal targets. Our results show that the spatial features of fs LA plumes are strongly dependent on the focal spot size. Two-dimensional self-emission images showed that the shape of the ultrafast laser ablation plumes changes from spherical to cylindrical with an increasing spot size from 100 to 600 μm. The changes in plume morphology and internal structures are related to ion emission dynamics from the plasma, where broader angular ion distribution and faster ions are noticed for the smallest spot size used. The present results clearly show that the morphological changes in the plume with spot size are independent of laser pulse width.

  15. Effect of defocusing on laser ablation plume observed by laser-induced fluorescence imaging spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oba, Masaki; Miyabe, Masabumi; Akaoka, Katsuaki; Wakaida, Ikuo

    2016-02-01

    We used laser-induced fluorescence imaging with a varying beam focal point to observe ablation plumes from metal and oxide samples of gadolinium. The plumes expand vertically when the focal point is far from the sample surface. In contrast, the plume becomes hemispherical when the focal point is on the sample surface. In addition, the internal plume structure and the composition of the ablated atomic and ionic particles also vary significantly. The fluorescence intensity of a plume from a metal sample is greater than that from an oxide sample, which suggests that the number of monatomic species produced in each plume differs. For both the metal and oxide samples, the most intense fluorescence from atomic (ionic) species is observed with the beam focal point at 3-4 mm (2 mm) from the sample surface.

  16. Higher Order Chemistry Models in the CFD Simulation of Laser-Ablated Carbon Plumes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Greendyke, R. B.; Creel, J. R.; Payne, B. T.; Scott, C. D.

    2005-01-01

    Production of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) has taken place for a number of years and by a variety of methods such as laser ablation, chemical vapor deposition, and arc-jet ablation. Yet, little is actually understood about the exact chemical kinetics and processes that occur in SWNT formation. In recent time, NASA Johnson Space Center has devoted a considerable effort to the experimental evaluation of the laser ablation production process for SWNT originally developed at Rice University. To fully understand the nature of the laser ablation process it is necessary to understand the development of the carbon plume dynamics within the laser ablation oven. The present work is a continuation of previous studies into the efforts to model plume dynamics using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The ultimate goal of the work is to improve understanding of the laser ablation process, and through that improved understanding, refine the laser ablation production of SWNT.

  17. Effects of Plume Hydrodynamics and Oxidation on the Composition of a Condensing Laser-Induced Plasma

    DOE PAGES

    Weisz, David G.; Crowhurst, Jonathan C.; Finko, Mikhail S.; ...

    2018-02-01

    High-temperature chemistry in laser ablation plumes leads to vapor-phase speciation, which can induce chemical fractionation during condensation. In this work, using emission spectroscopy acquired after ablation of a SrZrO 3 target, we have experimentally observed the formation of multiple molecular species (ZrO and SrO) as a function of time as the laser ablation plume evolves. Although the stable oxides SrO and ZrO 2 are both refractory, we observed emission from the ZrO intermediate at earlier times than SrO. We deduced the time-scale of oxygen entrainment into the laser ablation plume using an 18O 2 environment by observing the in-growth ofmore » Zr 18O in the emission spectra relative to Zr 16O, which was formed by reaction of Zr with 16O from the target itself. Using temporally resolved plume-imaging, we determined that ZrO formed more readily at early times, volumetrically in the plume, while SrO formed later in time, around the periphery. Lastly, using a simple temperature-dependent reaction model, we have illustrated that the formation sequence of these oxides subsequent to ablation is predictable to first order.« less

  18. Morphological changes in ultrafast laser ablation plumes with varying spot size

    DOE PAGES

    Harilal, S. S.; Diwakar, P. K.; Polek, M. P.; ...

    2015-06-04

    We investigated the role of spot size on plume morphology during ultrafast laser ablation of metal targets. Our results show that the spatial features of fs LA plumes are strongly dependent on the focal spot size. Two-dimensional self-emission images showed that the shape of the ultrafast laser ablation plumes changes from spherical to cylindrical with an increasing spot size from 100 to 600 μm. The changes in plume morphology and internal structures are related to ion emission dynamics from the plasma, where broader angular ion distribution and faster ions are noticed for the smallest spot size used. The present resultsmore » clearly show that the morphological changes in the plume with spot size are independent of laser pulse width.« less

  19. Time resolved optical diagnostics of ZnO plasma plumes in air

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gupta, Shyam L.; Singh, Ravi Pratap; Thareja, Raj K.

    2013-10-15

    We report dynamical evolution of laser ablated ZnO plasma plumes using interferometry and shadowgraphy; 2-D fast imaging and optical emission spectroscopy in air ambient at atmospheric pressure. Recorded interferograms using Nomarski interferometer and shadowgram images at various time delays show the presence of electrons and neutrals in the ablated plumes. The inference drawn from sign change of fringe shifts is consistent with two dimensional images of the plume and optical emission spectra at varying time delays with respect to ablating pulse. Zinc oxide plasma plumes are created by focusing 1.06 μm radiation on to ZnO target in air and 532more » nm is used as probe beam.« less

  20. A Mass Spectrometry Study of Isotope Separation in the Laser Plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suen, Timothy Wu

    Accurate quantification of isotope ratios is critical for both preventing the development of illicit weapons programs in nuclear safeguards and identifying the source of smuggled material in nuclear forensics. While isotope analysis has traditionally been performed by mass spectrometry, the need for in situ measurements has prompted the development of optical techniques, such as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry (LAMIS). These optical measurements rely on laser ablation for direct solid sampling, but several past studies have suggested that the distribution of isotopes in the ablation plume is not uniform. This study seeks to characterize isotope separation in the laser plume through the use of orthogonal-acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A silver foil was ablated with a Nd:YAG at 355 nm at an energy of 50 muJ with a spot size of 71 mum, for a fluence of 1.3 J/cm2 and an irradiance of 250 MW/cm2. Flat-plate repellers were used to sample the plume, and a temporal profile of the ions was obtained by varying the time delay on the high-voltage pulse. A spatial profile along the axis of the plume was generated by changing the position of the sample, which yielded snapshots of the isotopic composition with time. In addition, the reflectron time-of-flight system was used as an energy filter in conjunction with the repellers to sample slices of the laser plasma orthogonal to the plume axis. Mass spectrometry of the plume revealed a fast ion distribution and a slow ion distribution. Measurements taken across the entire plume showed the fast 109Ag ions slightly ahead in both space and time, causing the 107Ag fraction to drop to 0.34 at 3 mus, 4 mm from the sample surface. Although measurements centered on the near side of the plume did not show isotope separation, the slow ions on the far side of the plume included much more 109Ag than 107Ag. In addition to examining the isotope content of the ablation plume, this study has developed a mass spectrometry characterization technique that may be useful for investigating chemical reactions during laser ablation.

  1. Influence of the ablation plume on the removal process during ArF-excimer laser photoablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Doerbecker, Christina; Lubatschowski, Holger; Lohmann, Stefan; Ruff, Christine; Kermani, Omid; Ertmer, Wolfgang

    1996-01-01

    Correction of myopia with the ArF-excimer laser (PRK) sometimes leads to a so called 'central island' formation on the anterior corneal surface. The attenuation of the laser beam by the ablation plume might be one reason for this phenomenon. The attenuation properties of the ablation plume were investigated by a probe beam parallel to the surface of the tissue probe. By varying the laser parameters (fluence, repetition rate, spot size) and the target tissue (cornea, PMMA) the attenuation of the probe beam was measured time and spatial resolved. As a result of this study, a significant influence of the removal process due to scattering and absorption within the ablation plume can be assumed as a function of repetition rate, spot size and air flow on the tissue surface.

  2. Condensation of ablation plumes in the irradiation of metals by high-intensity nanosecond laser pulses at atmospheric pressure

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kozadaev, K V

    2016-01-31

    The Anisimov–Luk'yanchuk model is adapted for describing the condensation of vapour-plasma plumes produced in the irradiation of metal targets by high-intensity (10{sup 8} – 10{sup 10} W cm{sup -2}) nanosecond (10 – 100 ns) pulses at atmospheric pressure. The resultant data suggest that the initial stages of the development of metal ablation plumes correspond with a high degree of accuracy to the Zel'dovich–Raizer theory of dynamic condensation; however, at the stage of the ablation plume decay, the liquid-droplet phase is formed primarily by coalescence of 'nuclei'. (interaction of laser radiation with matter. laser plasma)

  3. Toward single-cell analysis by plume collimation in laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Stolee, Jessica A; Vertes, Akos

    2013-04-02

    Ambient ionization methods for mass spectrometry have enabled the in situ and in vivo analysis of biological tissues and cells. When an etched optical fiber is used to deliver laser energy to a sample in laser ablation electrospray ionization (LAESI) mass spectrometry, the analysis of large single cells becomes possible. However, because in this arrangement the ablation plume expands in three dimensions, only a small portion of it is ionized by the electrospray. Here we show that sample ablation within a capillary helps to confine the radial expansion of the plume. Plume collimation, due to the altered expansion dynamics, leads to greater interaction with the electrospray plume resulting in increased ionization efficiency, reduced limit of detection (by a factor of ~13, reaching 600 amol for verapamil), and extended dynamic range (6 orders of magnitude) compared to conventional LAESI. This enhanced sensitivity enables the analysis of a range of metabolites from small cell populations and single cells in the ambient environment. This technique has the potential to be integrated with flow cytometry for high-throughput metabolite analysis of sorted cells.

  4. Laser tailored nanoparticle arrays to detect molecules at dilute concentration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zanchi, Chiara; Lucotti, Andrea; Tommasini, Matteo; Trusso, Sebastiano; de Grazia, Ugo; Ciusani, Emilio; Ossi, Paolo M.

    2017-02-01

    By nanosecond pulsed laser ablation in an ambient gas gold nanoparticles (NPs) were produced that self-assemble on a substrate resulting in increasingly elaborated architectures of growing thickness, from isolated NP arrays up to percolated films. NPs nucleate and grow in the plasma plume propagating through the gas. Process parameters including laser wavelength, laser energy density, target to substrate distance, nature and pressure of the gas affect plasma expansion, thus asymptotic NP size and kinetic energy. NP size, energy and mobility at landing determine film growth and morphology that affect the physico-chemical properties of the film. Keeping fixed the other process parameters, we discuss the sensitive dependence of film surface nanostructure on Ar pressure and on laser pulse number. The initial plume velocity and average ablated mass per pulse allow predicting the asymptotic NP size. The control of growth parameters favors fine-tuning of NP aggregation, relevant to plasmonics to get optimized substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Their behavior is discussed for testing conditions of interest for clinical application. Both in aqueous and in biological solutions we obtained good sensitivity and reproducibility of the SERS signals for the anti-Parkinson drug apomorphine, and for the anti-epilepsy drug carbamazepine.

  5. Dynamics of plasma expansion and shockwave formation in femtosecond laser-ablated aluminum plumes in argon gas at atmospheric pressures

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Miloshevsky, Alexander; Harilal, Sivanandan S.; Miloshevsky, Gennady, E-mail: gennady@purdue.edu

    2014-04-15

    Plasma expansion with shockwave formation during laser ablation of materials in a background gasses is a complex process. The spatial and temporal evolution of pressure, temperature, density, and velocity fields is needed for its complete understanding. We have studied the expansion of femtosecond (fs) laser-ablated aluminum (Al) plumes in Argon (Ar) gas at 0.5 and 1 atmosphere (atm). The expansion of the plume is investigated experimentally using shadowgraphy and fast-gated imaging. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling is also carried out. The position of the shock front measured by shadowgraphy and fast-gated imaging is then compared to that obtained frommore » the CFD modeling. The results from the three methods are found to be in good agreement, especially during the initial stage of plasma expansion. The computed time- and space-resolved fields of gas-dynamic parameters have provided valuable insights into the dynamics of plasma expansion and shockwave formation in fs-pulse ablated Al plumes in Ar gas at 0.5 and 1 atm. These results are compared to our previous data on nanosecond (ns) laser ablation of Al [S. S. Harilal et al., Phys. Plasmas 19, 083504 (2012)]. It is observed that both fs and ns plumes acquire a nearly spherical shape at the end of expansion in Ar gas at 1 atm. However, due to significantly lower pulse energy of the fs laser (5 mJ) compared to pulse energy of the ns laser (100 mJ) used in our studies, the values of pressure, temperature, mass density, and velocity are found to be smaller in the fs laser plume, and their time evolution occurs much faster on the same time scale. The oscillatory shock waves clearly visible in the ns plume are not observed in the internal region of the fs plume. These experimental and computational results provide a quantitative understanding of plasma expansion and shockwave formation in fs-pulse and ns-pulse laser ablated Al plumes in an ambient gas at atmospheric pressures.« less

  6. Periodic Phenomena In Laser-Ablation Plasma Plumes: A Self-Organization Scenario

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gurlui, S.; Sanduloviciu, M.; Mihesan, C.

    2006-01-15

    Experimental evidence of the appearance of a proper periodic dynamics in a plasma plume created by pulsed laser ablation is considered as a hint for the presence of a self-organization scenario that explains similar phenomena observed in plasma diodes.

  7. Pulsed laser ablation of complex oxides: The role of congruent ablation and preferential scattering for the film stoichiometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wicklein, S.; Koehl, A.; Dittmann, R.

    2012-09-24

    By combining structural and chemical thin film analysis with detailed plume diagnostics and modeling of the laser plume dynamics, we are able to elucidate the different physical mechanisms determining the stoichiometry of the complex oxides model material SrTiO{sub 3} during pulsed laser deposition. Deviations between thin film and target stoichiometry are basically a result of two effects, namely, incongruent ablation and preferential scattering of lighter ablated species during their motion towards the substrate in the O{sub 2} background gas. On the one hand, a progressive preferential ablation of the Ti species with increasing laser fluence leads to a regime ofmore » Ti-rich thin film growth at larger fluences. On the other hand, in the low laser fluence regime, a more effective scattering of the lighter Ti plume species results in Sr rich films.« less

  8. Two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Phillips, Mark C.; Brumfield, Brian E.; LaHaye, Nicole

    Here, we demonstrate measurement of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes using two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy (2DFS). The high-resolution, tunable CW-laser spectroscopy technique clearly distinguishes atomic absorption from 235U and 238U in natural and highly enriched uranium metal samples. We present analysis of spectral resolution and analytical performance of 2DFS as a function of ambient pressure. Simultaneous measurement using time-resolved absorption spectroscopy provides information on temporal dynamics of the laser ablation plume and saturation behavior of fluorescence signals. The rapid, non-contact measurement is promising for in-field, standoff measurements of uranium enrichment for nuclear safety and security.

  9. Two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Phillips, Mark C.; Brumfield, Brian E.; LaHaye, Nicole L.

    We demonstrate measurement of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes using two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy (2DFS). The high-resolution, tunable CW-laser spectroscopy technique clearly distinguishes atomic absorption from 235U and 238U in natural and highly enriched uranium metal samples. We present analysis of spectral resolution and analytical performance of 2DFS as a function of ambient pressure. Simultaneous measurement using time-resolved absorption spectroscopy provides information on temporal dynamics of the laser ablation plume and saturation behavior of fluorescence signals. The rapid, non-contact measurement is promising for in-field, standoff measurements of uranium enrichment for nuclear safety and security applications.

  10. Two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes

    DOE PAGES

    Phillips, Mark C.; Brumfield, Brian E.; LaHaye, Nicole; ...

    2017-06-19

    Here, we demonstrate measurement of uranium isotopes in femtosecond laser ablation plumes using two-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy (2DFS). The high-resolution, tunable CW-laser spectroscopy technique clearly distinguishes atomic absorption from 235U and 238U in natural and highly enriched uranium metal samples. We present analysis of spectral resolution and analytical performance of 2DFS as a function of ambient pressure. Simultaneous measurement using time-resolved absorption spectroscopy provides information on temporal dynamics of the laser ablation plume and saturation behavior of fluorescence signals. The rapid, non-contact measurement is promising for in-field, standoff measurements of uranium enrichment for nuclear safety and security.

  11. Dynamical Study of Femtosecond-Laser-Ablated Liquid-Aluminum Nanoparticles Using Spatiotemporally Resolved X-Ray-Absorption Fine-Structure Spectroscopy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Oguri, Katsuya; Okano, Yasuaki; Nishikawa, Tadashi

    2007-10-19

    We study the temperature evolution of aluminum nanoparticles generated by femtosecond laser ablation with spatiotemporally resolved x-ray-absorption fine-structure spectroscopy. We successfully identify the nanoparticles based on the L-edge absorption fine structure of the ablation plume in combination with the dependence of the edge structure on the irradiation intensity and the expansion velocity of the plume. In particular, we show that the lattice temperature of the nanoparticles is estimated from the L-edge slope, and that its spatial dependence reflects the cooling of the nanoparticles during plume expansion. The results reveal that the emitted nanoparticles travel in a vacuum as a condensedmore » liquid phase with a lattice temperature of about 2500 to 4200 K in the early stage of plume expansion.« less

  12. Mass Spectrometric Imaging Using Laser Ablation and Solvent Capture by Aspiration (LASCA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brauer, Jonathan I.; Beech, Iwona B.; Sunner, Jan

    2015-09-01

    A novel interface for ambient, laser ablation-based mass spectrometric imaging (MSI) referred to as laser ablation and solvent capture by aspiration (LASCA) is presented and its performance demonstrated using selected, unaltered biological materials. LASCA employs a pulsed 2.94 μm laser beam for specimen ablation. Ablated materials in the laser plumes are collected on a hanging solvent droplet with electric field-enhanced trapping, followed by aspiration of droplets and remaining plume material in the form of a coarse aerosol into a collection capillary. The gas and liquid phases are subsequently separated in a 10 μL-volume separatory funnel, and the solution is analyzed with electrospray ionization in a high mass resolution Q-ToF mass spectrometer. The LASCA system separates the sampling and ionization steps in MSI and combines high efficiencies of laser plume sampling and of electrospray ionization (ESI) with high mass resolution MS. Up to 2000 different compounds are detected from a single ablation spot (pixel). Using the LASCA platform, rapid (6 s per pixel), high sensitivity, high mass-resolution ambient imaging of "as-received" biological material is achieved routinely and reproducibly.

  13. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, S. S.; Diwakar, P. K.; Polek, M. P.

    We investigated the role of spot size on plume morphology during ultrafast laser ablation of metal targets. Our results show that the spatial features of fs LA plumes are strongly dependent on the focal spot size. Two-dimensional self-emission images showed that the shape of the ultrafast laser ablation plumes changes from spherical to cylindrical with an increasing spot size from 100 to 600 μm. The changes in plume morphology and internal structures are related to ion emission dynamics from the plasma, where broader angular ion distribution and faster ions are noticed for the smallest spot size used. The present resultsmore » clearly show that the morphological changes in the plume with spot size are independent of laser pulse width.« less

  14. Laser ablated copper plasmas in liquid and gas ambient

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Bhupesh; Thareja, Raj K.

    2013-05-01

    The dynamics of copper ablated plasma plumes generated using laser ablation of copper targets in both liquid (de-ionized water) and gas (air) ambients is reported. Using time and space resolved visible emission spectroscopy (450-650 nm), the plasma plumes parameters are investigated. The electron density (ne) determined using Stark broadening of the Cu I (3d104d1 2D3/2-3d104p1 2P3/2 at 521.8 nm) line is estimated and compared for both plasma plumes. The electron temperature (Te) was estimated using the relative line emission intensities of the neutral copper transitions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectral analysis of the ablated copper surface indicated abundance of spherical nanoparticles in liquid while those in air are amalgamates of irregular shapes. The nanoparticles suspended in the confining liquid form aggregates and exhibit a surface plasmon resonance at ˜590 nm.

  15. The role of laser wavelength on plasma generation and expansion of ablation plumes in air

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hussein, A. E.; Department of Physics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4; Diwakar, P. K.

    2013-04-14

    We investigated the role of excitation laser wavelength on plasma generation and the expansion and confinement of ablation plumes at early times (0-500 ns) in the presence of atmospheric pressure. Fundamental, second, and fourth harmonic radiation from Nd:YAG laser was focused on Al target to produce plasma. Shadowgraphy, fast photography, and optical emission spectroscopy were employed to analyze the plasma plumes, and white light interferometry was used to characterize the laser ablation craters. Our results indicated that excitation wavelength plays a crucial role in laser-target and laser-plasma coupling, which in turn affects plasma plume morphology and radiation emission. Fast photographymore » and shadowgraphy images showed that plasmas generated by 1064 nm are more cylindrical compared to plasmas generated by shorter wavelengths, indicating the role of inverse bremsstrahlung absorption at longer laser wavelength excitation. Electron density estimates using Stark broadening showed higher densities for shorter wavelength laser generated plasmas, demonstrating the significance of absorption caused by photoionization. Crater depth analysis showed that ablated mass is significantly higher for UV wavelengths compared to IR laser radiation. In this experimental study, the use of multiple diagnostic tools provided a comprehensive picture of the differing roles of laser absorption mechanisms during ablation.« less

  16. Modeling of Heat Transfer and Ablation of Refractory Material Due to Rocket Plume Impingement

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Harris, Michael F.; Vu, Bruce T.

    2012-01-01

    CR Tech's Thermal Desktop-SINDA/FLUINT software was used in the thermal analysis of a flame deflector design for Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The analysis of the flame deflector takes into account heat transfer due to plume impingement from expected vehicles to be launched at KSC. The heat flux from the plume was computed using computational fluid dynamics provided by Ames Research Center in Moffet Field, California. The results from the CFD solutions were mapped onto a 3-D Thermal Desktop model of the flame deflector using the boundary condition mapping capabilities in Thermal Desktop. The ablation subroutine in SINDA/FLUINT was then used to model the ablation of the refractory material.

  17. Dynamic behavior of photoablation products of corneal tissue in the mid-IR: a study with FELIX

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Auerhammer, J. M.; Walker, R.; van der Meer, A. F. G.; Jean, B.

    The properties of pulsed IR-laser ablation of biological soft tissue (porcine cornea) were studied in vitro systematically and quantitatively with a free-electron laser in the wavelength range 6<=λ<=20 μm at fluences ranging from 3.1 to 9.4 J/cm2. Dynamic parameters such as the extension of the ablation cloud, the initial velocity and momentum of the ablated particles as well as the ablation threshold, the ablated mass, and the particle size were investigated. The ablation plume was made visible with a stroboscopic technique. For a fluence of 3.1 J/cm2 the average initial velocity of the ejected particles was deduced from the extension of the plume to range from 120-400 m/s. Measurements of the recoil momentum using a sensitive pendulum led to values between 0.5 and 2.0 mmg/s. All measured properties were related to the spectroscopically determined absorption coefficient of cornea αcornea. Where absorption due to proteins is high (at λ=6.2 and 6.5 μm), ablated mass, velocity and recoil momentum behave according to αcornea. For the first time, variations of the ablation plume from pulse to pulse were observed. Those, as well as the particle size, not only depend on the absorption coefficient, but also on the predominant absorber.

  18. Monitoring of KrF excimer laser ablation for burn scars: a comparative study of transient reflection measurement and time-resolved photography of ablation plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakajima, Akio; Arai, Tsunenori; Kikuchi, Makoto; Iwaya, Akimi; Arai, Katsuyuki; Inazaki, Satoshi; Takaoka, Takatsugu; Kato, Masayoshi

    1995-05-01

    A simple laser ablation monitoring during burn scar removal by KrF laser irradiation was studied to control laser fluence in real-time. Because, to obtain suitable surface for auto skin-graft, the laser fluence should be precisely controlled at each laser shot. We employed simple probe transmission method which could detect ejected material/phenomena from irradiated surface. The time-course of measured probe intensity contained a couple of attenuated peaks, which might corresponded to a shock wave front and debris plume. The delay time from laser irradiation to the debris plume peak appearance varied with the ablation fluence. The delay time of 1 J/cm2 (near ablation threshold) case prolonged 25% from 8 J/cm2 (far above threshold) case. Therefore, we think the delay time measurement by means of the simple probe transmission method may be available to attain the laser fluence control for nonuniform burn scar removal. The time-resolved photography and probe reflection method were also studied to understand the measured time-course of the transmitted probe intensity.

  19. Plume propagation direction determination with SO2 cameras

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Klein, Angelika; Lübcke, Peter; Bobrowski, Nicole; Kuhn, Jonas; Platt, Ulrich

    2017-03-01

    SO2 cameras are becoming an established tool for measuring sulfur dioxide (SO2) fluxes in volcanic plumes with good precision and high temporal resolution. The primary result of SO2 camera measurements are time series of two-dimensional SO2 column density distributions (i.e. SO2 column density images). However, it is frequently overlooked that, in order to determine the correct SO2 fluxes, not only the SO2 column density, but also the distance between the camera and the volcanic plume, has to be precisely known. This is because cameras only measure angular extents of objects while flux measurements require knowledge of the spatial plume extent. The distance to the plume may vary within the image array (i.e. the field of view of the SO2 camera) since the plume propagation direction (i.e. the wind direction) might not be parallel to the image plane of the SO2 camera. If the wind direction and thus the camera-plume distance are not well known, this error propagates into the determined SO2 fluxes and can cause errors exceeding 50 %. This is a source of error which is independent of the frequently quoted (approximate) compensation of apparently higher SO2 column densities and apparently lower plume propagation velocities at non-perpendicular plume observation angles.Here, we propose a new method to estimate the propagation direction of the volcanic plume directly from SO2 camera image time series by analysing apparent flux gradients along the image plane. From the plume propagation direction and the known location of the SO2 source (i.e. volcanic vent) and camera position, the camera-plume distance can be determined. Besides being able to determine the plume propagation direction and thus the wind direction in the plume region directly from SO2 camera images, we additionally found that it is possible to detect changes of the propagation direction at a time resolution of the order of minutes. In addition to theoretical studies we applied our method to SO2 flux measurements at Mt Etna and demonstrate that we obtain considerably more precise (up to a factor of 2 error reduction) SO2 fluxes. We conclude that studies on SO2 flux variability become more reliable by excluding the possible influences of propagation direction variations.

  20. Experimental studies of laser-ablated zirconium carbide plasma plumes: Fuel corrosion diagnostic development

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wantuck, P. J.; Butt, D. P.; Sappey, A. D.

    Understanding the corrosion behavior of nuclear fuel materials, such as refractory carbides, in a high temperature hydrogen environment is critical for several proposed nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) concepts. Monitoring the fuel corrosion products is important not only for understanding corrosion characteristics, but to assess the performance of an actual, operating nuclear propulsion system as well. In this paper, we describe an experimental study initiated to develop, test, and subsequently utilize non-intrusive, laser-based diagnostics to characterize the gaseous product species which are expected to evolve during the exposure of representative fuel samples to hydrogen. Laser ablation is used to produce high temperature, vapor plumes from solid solution, uranium-free, zirconium carbide (ZrC) forms for probing by other laser diagnostic methods, predominantly laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). We discuss the laser ablation technique, results of plume emission measurements, as well as the use of planar LIF to image both the ZrC plumes and actual NTP fuel corrosion constituents.

  1. Dynamics of Molecular Emission Features from Nanosecond, Femtosecond Laser and Filament Ablation Plasmas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, Sivanandan S.; Yeak, J.; Brumfield, Brian E.

    2016-06-15

    The evolutionary paths of molecular species and nanoparticles in laser ablation plumes are not well understood due to the complexity of numerous physical processes that occur simultaneously in a transient laser-plasma system. It is well known that the emission features of ions, atoms, molecules and nanoparticles in a laser ablation plume strongly depend on the laser irradiation conditions. In this letter we report the temporal emission features of AlO molecules in plasmas generated using a nanosecond laser, a femtosecond laser and filaments generated from a femtosecond laser. Our results show that, at a fixed laser energy, the persistence of AlOmore » is found to be highest and lowest in ns and filament laser plasmas respectively while molecular species are formed at early times for both ultrashort pulse (fs and filament) generated plasmas. Analysis of the AlO emission band features show that the vibrational temperature of AlO decays rapidly in filament assisted laser ablation plumes.« less

  2. Double-pulse femtosecond laser peening of aluminum alloy AA5038: Effect of inter-pulse delay on transient optical plume emission and final surface micro-hardness

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ageev, E. I.; Bychenkov, V. Yu.; Ionin, A. A.; Kudryashov, S. I.; Petrov, A. A.; Samokhvalov, A. A.; Veiko, V. P.

    2016-11-01

    Double-pulse ablative femtosecond laser peening of the AA5038 aluminum alloy surface in the phase explosion regime results in its enhanced microhardness, which monotonously decreases till the initial value versus inter-pulse delay, increasing on a sub-nanosecond timescale. Optical emission spectroscopy of the double-pulse ablative plume reveals the same trend in the yield of the corresponding atomic and ion emission versus inter-pulse delay, enlightening the interaction of the second femtosecond laser pump pulse with the surface and the resulting plume.

  3. Molybdenum electron impact width parameter measurement by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sternberg, E. M. A.; Rodrigues, N. A. S.; Amorim, J.

    2016-01-01

    In this work, we suggest a method for electron impact width parameter calculation based on Stark broadening of emission lines of a laser-ablated plasma plume. First, electron density and temperature must be evaluated by means of the Saha-Boltzmann plot method for neutral and ionized species of the plasma. The method was applied for laser-ablated molybdenum plasma plume. For molybdenum plasma electron temperature, which varies around 10,000 K, and electron density, which reaches values around 1018 cm-3, and considering that total measured line broadening was due experimental and Stark broadening mainly, electron impact width parameter of molybdenum emission lines was determined as (0.01 ± 0.02) nm. Intending to validate the presented method, it was analyzed the laser-ablated aluminum plasma plume and the obtained results were in agreement with the predicted on the literature.

  4. Au nanoparticle arrays produced by Pulsed Laser Deposition for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agarwal, N. R.; Neri, F.; Trusso, S.; Lucotti, A.; Ossi, P. M.

    2012-09-01

    Using UV pulses from KrF excimer laser, Au targets were ablated in varying pressures of argon to deposit Au nanoparticle (NP) arrays. The morphology of these films from island structures to isolated NPs, observed by SEM and TEM, depends on the gas pressure (10-100 Pa) and pulse number keeping other deposition parameters constant. By fast imaging of the plasma with an iCCD camera at different time delays with respect to the arrival of the laser pulse, we study the plasma propagation regime and we measured its initial velocity. These data and the measured average ablated mass per pulse were introduced to the mixed propagation model to calculate the average asymptotic size of clusters grown in the plume which were compared with NP sizes from TEM measurements. UV-visible Spectroscopy revealed changes of surface plasmon resonance with respect to NP size and spatial density and distribution on the surface. Suitable wavelength to excite the localized surface plasmon was chosen to detect ultra-low concentrations of Rhodamine and Apomorphine as an application to biomedical sensors, using Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS). A comparison of SERS spectra taken under identical conditions from commercial substrates and from PLD substrates show that the latter have superior performances.

  5. Improving Thermal Ablation Delineation With Electrode Vibration Elastography Using a Bidirectional Wave Propagation Assumption

    PubMed Central

    DeWall, Ryan J.; Varghese, Tomy

    2013-01-01

    Thermal ablation procedures are commonly used to treat hepatic cancers and accurate ablation representation on shear wave velocity images is crucial to ensure complete treatment of the malignant target. Electrode vibration elastography is a shear wave imaging technique recently developed to monitor thermal ablation extent during treatment procedures. Previous work has shown good lateral boundary delineation of ablated volumes, but axial delineation was more ambiguous, which may have resulted from the assumption of lateral shear wave propagation. In this work, we assume both lateral and axial wave propagation and compare wave velocity images to those assuming only lateral shear wave propagation in finite element simulations, tissue-mimicking phantoms, and bovine liver tissue. Our results show that assuming bidirectional wave propagation minimizes artifacts above and below ablated volumes, yielding a more accurate representation of the ablated region on shear wave velocity images. Area overestimation was reduced from 13.4% to 3.6% in a stiff-inclusion tissue-mimicking phantom and from 9.1% to 0.8% in a radio-frequency ablation in bovine liver tissue. More accurate ablation representation during ablation procedures increases the likelihood of complete treatment of the malignant target, decreasing tumor recurrence. PMID:22293748

  6. Improving thermal ablation delineation with electrode vibration elastography using a bidirectional wave propagation assumption.

    PubMed

    DeWall, Ryan J; Varghese, Tomy

    2012-01-01

    Thermal ablation procedures are commonly used to treat hepatic cancers and accurate ablation representation on shear wave velocity images is crucial to ensure complete treatment of the malignant target. Electrode vibration elastography is a shear wave imaging technique recently developed to monitor thermal ablation extent during treatment procedures. Previous work has shown good lateral boundary delineation of ablated volumes, but axial delineation was more ambiguous, which may have resulted from the assumption of lateral shear wave propagation. In this work, we assume both lateral and axial wave propagation and compare wave velocity images to those assuming only lateral shear wave propagation in finite element simulations, tissue-mimicking phantoms, and bovine liver tissue. Our results show that assuming bidirectional wave propagation minimizes artifacts above and below ablated volumes, yielding a more accurate representation of the ablated region on shear wave velocity images. Area overestimation was reduced from 13.4% to 3.6% in a stiff-inclusion tissue-mimicking phantom and from 9.1% to 0.8% in a radio-frequency ablation in bovine liver tissue. More accurate ablation representation during ablation procedures increases the likelihood of complete treatment of the malignant target, decreasing tumor recurrence. © 2012 IEEE

  7. Characteristics of plasma plume in ultrafast laser ablation with a weakly ionized air channel

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hou, Huaming; Yang, Bo; Mao, Xianglei

    We report the influence of femtosecond (fs) laser weakly ionized air channel on characteristics of plasma induced from fs-laser ablation of solid Zr metal target. A novel method to create high temperature, low electron density plasma with intense elemental emission and weak bremsstrahlung emission was demonstrated. Weakly ionized air channel was generated as a result of a non-linear phenomenon. Two-dimensional time-resolved optical-emission images of plasma plumes were taken for plume dynamics analysis. Dynamic physical properties of filament channels were simulated. In particular, we investigated the influence of weakly ionized air channel on the evolution of solid plasma plume. Plasma plumemore » splitting was observed whilst longer weakly ionized air channel formed above the ablation spot. The domination mechanism for splitting is attributed to the long-lived underdense channel created by fs-laser induced weakly ionization of air. The evolutions of atomic/molecular emission intensity, peak broadening, and plasma temperature were analyzed, and the results show that the part of plasma entering weakly ionized air channel features higher initial temperature, lower electron density and faster decay.« less

  8. Characteristics of plasma plume in ultrafast laser ablation with a weakly ionized air channel

    DOE PAGES

    Hou, Huaming; Yang, Bo; Mao, Xianglei; ...

    2018-05-10

    We report the influence of femtosecond (fs) laser weakly ionized air channel on characteristics of plasma induced from fs-laser ablation of solid Zr metal target. A novel method to create high temperature, low electron density plasma with intense elemental emission and weak bremsstrahlung emission was demonstrated. Weakly ionized air channel was generated as a result of a non-linear phenomenon. Two-dimensional time-resolved optical-emission images of plasma plumes were taken for plume dynamics analysis. Dynamic physical properties of filament channels were simulated. In particular, we investigated the influence of weakly ionized air channel on the evolution of solid plasma plume. Plasma plumemore » splitting was observed whilst longer weakly ionized air channel formed above the ablation spot. The domination mechanism for splitting is attributed to the long-lived underdense channel created by fs-laser induced weakly ionization of air. The evolutions of atomic/molecular emission intensity, peak broadening, and plasma temperature were analyzed, and the results show that the part of plasma entering weakly ionized air channel features higher initial temperature, lower electron density and faster decay.« less

  9. Measurement of fuel corrosion products using planar laser-induced fluorescence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wantuck, Paul J.; Sappey, Andrew D.; Butt, Darryl P.

    1993-01-01

    Characterizing the corrosion behavior of nuclear fuel material in a high-temperature hydrogen environment is critical for ascertaining the operational performance of proposed nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) concepts. In this paper, we describe an experimental study undertaken to develop and test non-intrusive, laser-based diagnostics for ultimately measuring the distribution of key gas-phase corrosion products expected to evolve during the exposure of NTP fuel to hydrogen. A laser ablation technique is used to produce high temperature, vapor plumes from uranium-free zirconium carbide (ZrC) and niobium carbide (NbC) forms for probing by various optical diagnostics including planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF). We discuss the laser ablation technique, results of plume emission measurements, and we describe both the actual and proposed planar LIF schemes for imaging constituents of the ablated ZrC and NbC plumes. Envisioned testing of the laser technique in rf-heated, high temperature gas streams is also discussed.

  10. Femtosecond ablation applied to deep-drilling of hard metals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bruneau, Sebastien; Hermann, Joerg; Dumitru, Gabriel; Sentis, Marc L.

    2004-09-01

    Mechanisms responsible for the limitation of the aspect ratio obtained by deep drilling of hard metals are investigated in the present work. Cemented carbide targets have been irradiated with laser pulses of 100 fs duration and 100 μJ maximum energy delivered by a Ti:sapphire laser system. The experiments are carried out in different gas environments (vacuum, air, helium up to atmospheric pressure) with incident laser fluences ranging from 1 to 20 Jcm-2. During deep drilling, the laser-induced ablation plume is characterized by means of in-situ plasma diagnostics. Fast imaging is used to observe the expansion behavior of the plasma plume whereas time- and space-resolved emission spectroscopy is employed to analyze the plasma composition. After irradiation, the laser-produced craters were examined by optical microscopy. A correlation between the ablation plume characteristics and the morphological changes of the mciro-holes is established. The results indicate that nanoclusters, that present a significant part of the ablated material, are responsbile for the alteration of the crater shape in the high laser fluence regime.

  11. Plume splitting and oscillatory behavior in transient plasmas generated by high-fluence laser ablation in vacuum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Focsa, C.; Gurlui, S.; Nica, P.; Agop, M.; Ziskind, M.

    2017-12-01

    We present a short overview of studies performed in our research groups over the last decade on the characterization of transient plasma plumes generated by laser ablation in various temporal regimes, from nanosecond to femtosecond. New results are also presented along with this overview, both being placed in the context of similar studies performed by other investigators. Optical (fast gate intensified CCD camera imaging and space- and time-resolved emission spectroscopy) and electrical (mainly Langmuir probe) methods have been applied to experimentally explore the dynamics of the plasma plume and its constituents. Peculiar effects as plume splitting and sharpening or oscillations onset have been evidenced in vacuum at high laser fluence. New theoretical approaches have been developed to account for the experimental observations.

  12. Single-shot femtosecond laser ablation of gold surface in air and isopropyl alcohol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kudryashov, S. I.; Saraeva, I. N.; Lednev, V. N.; Pershin, S. M.; Rudenko, A. A.; Ionin, A. A.

    2018-05-01

    Single-shot IR femtosecond-laser ablation of gold surfaces in ambient air and liquid isopropyl alcohol was studied by scanning electron microscopy characterization of crater topographies and time-resolved optical emission spectroscopy of ablative plumes in regimes, typical for non-filamentary and non-fragmentation laser production of nanoparticle sols. Despite one order of magnitude shorter (few nanoseconds) lifetimes and almost two orders of magnitude lower intensities of the quenched ablative plume emission in the alcohol ambient at the same peak laser fluence, craters for the dry and wet conditions appeared with rather similar nanofoam-like spallative topographies and the same thresholds. These facts envision the underlying surface spallation as one of the basic ablation mechanisms relevant for both dry and wet advanced femtosecond laser surface nano/micro-machining and texturing, as well as for high-throughput femtosecond laser ablative production of colloidal nanoparticles by MHz laser-pulse trains via their direct nanoscale jetting from the nanofoam in air and fluid environments.

  13. Dual beam optical system for pulsed laser ablation film deposition

    DOEpatents

    Mashburn, D.N.

    1996-09-24

    A laser ablation apparatus having a laser source outputting a laser ablation beam includes an ablation chamber having a sidewall, a beam divider for dividing the laser ablation beam into two substantially equal halves, and a pair of mirrors for converging the two halves on a surface of the target from complementary angles relative to the target surface normal, thereby generating a plume of ablated material emanating from the target. 3 figs.

  14. Dual beam optical system for pulsed laser ablation film deposition

    DOEpatents

    Mashburn, Douglas N.

    1996-01-01

    A laser ablation apparatus having a laser source outputting a laser ablation beam includes an ablation chamber having a sidewall, a beam divider for dividing the laser ablation beam into two substantially equal halves, and a pair of mirrors for converging the two halves on a surface of the target from complementary angles relative to the target surface normal, thereby generating a plume of ablated material emanating from the target.

  15. Spectroscopic diagnostics of plume rebound and shockwave dynamics of confined aluminum laser plasma plumes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yeates, P.; Kennedy, E. T.; School of Physical Sciences, Dublin City University

    2011-06-15

    Generation and expansion dynamics of aluminum laser plasma plumes generated between parallel plates of varying separation ({Delta}Z = 2.0, 3.2, 4.0, and 5.6 mm), which confined plume expansion normal to the ablation surface, were diagnosed. Space and time resolved visible emission spectroscopy in the spectral range {lambda} = 355-470 nm and time gated visible imaging were employed to record emission spectra and plume dynamics. Space and time resolved profiles of N{sub e} (the electron density), T{sub e} (the electron temperature), and T{sub ionz} (the ionization temperature) were compared for different positions in the plasma plume. Significant modifications of the profilesmore » of the above parameters were observed for plasma-surface collisions at the inner surface of the front plate, which formed a barrier to the free expansion of the plasma plume generated by the laser light on the surface of the back plate. Shockwave generation at the collision interface resulted in delayed compression of the low-density plasma plume near the inner ablation surface, at late stages in the plasma history. Upon exiting the cavity formed by the two plates, through an aperture in the front plate, the plasma plume underwent a second phase of free expansion.« less

  16. Study of Mn laser ablation in methane atmosphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krstulović, N.; Labazan, I.; Milošević, S.

    2006-02-01

    Laser ablation of Mn target in vacuum and in the presence of CH4 was studied under 308 nm laser irradiation. Time-resolved emission using gated detection and scanning monochromator and absorption using the cavity ring-down spectroscopy were used to study vaporized plume. In the CH4 atmosphere we observed transitions identified as C2 and MnH bands, while these spectral features were not detected in emission spectra. This is a clear evidence of importance in combining both spectroscopic techniques in laser vaporized plume study.

  17. Computational Modeling of Ablation on an Irradiated Target

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehmedagic, Igbal; Thangam, Siva

    2017-11-01

    Computational modeling of pulsed nanosecond laser interaction with an irradiated metallic target is presented. The model formulation involves ablation of the metallic target irradiated by pulsed high intensity laser at normal atmospheric conditions. Computational findings based on effective representation and prediction of the heat transfer, melting and vaporization of the targeting material as well as plume formation and expansion are presented along with its relevance for the development of protective shields. In this context, the available results for a representative irradiation from 1064 nm laser pulse is used to analyze various ablation mechanisms, variable thermo-physical and optical properties, plume expansion and surface geometry. Funded in part by U. S. Army ARDEC, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ.

  18. Characterization of ultrafast laser-ablation plasma plumes at various Ar ambient pressures

    DOE PAGES

    Diwakar, P. K.; Harilal, S. S.; Phillips, M. C.; ...

    2015-07-30

    Expansion dynamics and internal plume structures of fs laser ablated brass plasma in Ar at various pressure levels ranging from vacuum to atmospheric were studied using multitude of diagnostic tools including time resolved and time integrated 2-dimensional imaging, optical time of flight measurements and visible emission spectroscopy. Temporal evolution of excited Cu and Zn species in the plume were imaged using band pass interference filters and compared its hydrodynamic expansion features with spectrally integrated images of the plume. 2D imaging coupled with monochromatic line selection showed several interesting features at various pressure levels which include velocity differences among the plumemore » species, emission intensity distribution, plasma temperature, electron density etc. Plume confinement, enhanced signal intensity, and dual peak structures in time-of-flight profiles were observed at intermediate pressure range of ~10 Torr. Optimum signal to background ratio was also observed in this pressure range. As a result, possible mechanisms for observed changes in plume shape, optical emission intensity and dual peak structures in time-of-flight profiles were discussed.« less

  19. [INVITED] Control of femtosecond pulsed laser ablation and deposition by temporal pulse shaping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garrelie, Florence; Bourquard, Florent; Loir, Anne--Sophie; Donnet, Christophe; Colombier, Jean-Philippe

    2016-04-01

    This study explores the effects of temporal laser pulse shaping on femtosecond pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The potential of laser pulses temporally tailored on ultrafast time scales is used to control the expansion and the excitation degree of ablation products including atomic species and nanoparticles. The ablation plume generated by temporally shaped femtosecond pulsed laser ablation of aluminum and graphite targets is studied by in situ optical diagnostic methods. Taking advantage of automated pulse shaping techniques, an adaptive procedure based on spectroscopic feedback regulates the irradiance for the enhancement of typical plasma features. Thin films elaborated by unshaped femtosecond laser pulses and by optimized sequence indicate that the nanoparticles generation efficiency is strongly influenced by the temporal shaping of the laser irradiation. The ablation processes leading either to the generation of the nanoparticles either to the formation of plasma can be favored by using a temporal shaping of the laser pulse. Insights are given on the possibility to control the quantity of the nanoparticles. The temporal laser pulse shaping is shown also to strongly modify the laser-induced plasma contents and kinetics for graphite ablation. Temporal pulse shaping proves its capability to reduce the number of slow radicals while increasing the proportion of monomers, with the addition of ionized species in front of the plume. This modification of the composition and kinetics of plumes in graphite ablation using temporal laser pulse shaping is discussed in terms of modification of the structural properties of deposited Diamond-Like Carbon films (DLC). This gives rise to a better understanding of the growth processes involved in femtosecond-PLD and picosecond-PLD of DLC suggesting the importance of neutral C atoms, which are responsible for the subplantation process.

  20. Laser ablation for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes

    DOEpatents

    Holloway, Brian C; Eklund, Peter C; Smith, Michael W; Jordan, Kevin C; Shinn, Michelle

    2012-11-27

    Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced in a novel apparatus by the laser-induced ablation of moving carbon target. The laser used is of high average power and ultra-fast pulsing. According to various preferred embodiments, the laser produces and output above about 50 watts/cm.sup.2 at a repetition rate above about 15 MHz and exhibits a pulse duration below about 10 picoseconds. The carbon, carbon/catalyst target and the laser beam are moved relative to one another and a focused flow of "side pumped", preheated inert gas is introduced near the point of ablation to minimize or eliminate interference by the ablated plume by removal of the plume and introduction of new target area for incidence with the laser beam. When the target is moved relative to the laser beam, rotational or translational movement may be imparted thereto, but rotation of the target is preferred.

  1. Laser ablation for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes

    DOEpatents

    Holloway, Brian C.; Eklund, Peter C.; Smith, Michael W.; Jordan, Kevin C.; Shinn, Michelle

    2010-04-06

    Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced in a novel apparatus by the laser-induced ablation of moving carbon target. The laser used is of high average power and ultra-fast pulsing. According to various preferred embodiments, the laser produces an output above about 50 watts/cm.sup.2 at a repetition rate above about 15 MHz and exhibits a pulse duration below about 10 picoseconds. The carbon, carbon/catalyst target and the laser beam are moved relative to one another and a focused flow of "side pumped", preheated inert gas is introduced near the point of ablation to minimize or eliminate interference by the ablated plume by removal of the plume and introduction of new target area for incidence with the laser beam. When the target is moved relative to the laser beam, rotational or translational movement may be imparted thereto, but rotation of the target is preferred.

  2. Laser ablation for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Holloway, Brian C. (Inventor); Eklund, Peter C. (Inventor); Smith, Michael W. (Inventor); Jordan, Kevin C. (Inventor); Shinn, Michelle (Inventor)

    2010-01-01

    Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced in a novel apparatus by the laser-induced ablation of moving carbon target. The laser used is of high average power and ultra-fast pulsing. According to various preferred embodiments, the laser produces an output above about 50 watts/cm.sup.2 at a repetition rate above about 15 MHz and exhibits a pulse duration below about 10 picoseconds. The carbon, carbon/catalyst target and the laser beam are moved relative to one another and a focused flow of side pumped, preheated inert gas is introduced near the point of ablation to minimize or eliminate interference by the ablated plume by removal of the plume and introduction of new target area for incidence with the laser beam. When the target is moved relative to the laser beam, rotational or translational movement may be imparted thereto, but rotation of the target is preferred.

  3. Laser ablation for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Holloway, Brian C. (Inventor); Eklund, Peter C. (Inventor); Smith, Michael W. (Inventor); Jordan, Kevin C. (Inventor); Shinn, Michelle (Inventor)

    2012-01-01

    Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced in a novel apparatus by the laser-induced ablation of moving carbon target. The laser used is of high average power and ultra-fast pulsing. According to various preferred embodiments, the laser produces and output above about 50 watts/cm.sup.2 at a repetition rate above about 15 MHz and exhibits a pulse duration below about 10 picoseconds. The carbon, carbon/catalyst target and the laser beam are moved relative to one another and a focused flow of "side pumped", preheated inert gas is introduced near the point of ablation to minimize or eliminate interference by the ablated plume by removal of the plume and introduction of new target area for incidence with the laser beam. When the target is moved relative to the laser beam, rotational or translational movement may be imparted thereto, but rotation of the target is preferred.

  4. Laser ablation in an ambient gas: Modelling and experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moscicki, Tomasz; Hoffman, Jacek; Szymanski, Zygmunt

    2018-02-01

    The laser ablation of graphite in ambient argon is studied both experimentally and theoretically in conditions corresponding to the initial conditions of carbon nanotube synthesis by the laser vaporization method. The results of the experiment show that the maximum plasma temperature of 24 000 K is reached 25 ns after the beginning of the laser pulse and decreases to about 4000-4500 K after 10 μs. The maximum electron density of 8 × 1025 m-3 is reached 15 ns from the beginning of the laser pulse. The hydrodynamic model applied shows comparable plasma temperatures and electron densities. The model also replicates well a shock wave and plume confinement—intrinsic features of supersonic flow of the ablated plume in an ambient gas. The results show that the theoretical model can be used to simulate nanosecond laser ablation in an ambient gas from the beginning of the process up to several microseconds.

  5. Time-of-flight spectroscopy characterization of the plasma plume from a laser-ablated potassium titanyl phosphate crystal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ying, Minju; Wang, XiaoXiao; Cheng, Wei; Liao, Bin; Zhang, Xu

    2015-06-01

    Optical emission spectra of the plasma produced by 1.06-μm Nd:YAG laser irradiation of a potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) crystal were recorded and analyzed in a time- and spatially resolved manner. The composition and evolution of the plasma plume were studied in low vacuum conditions. Emission lines associated with Ti(I), Ti(II) and K(I) were identified in the plasma. The delay times of emission peaks for the ablated species were investigated as a function of the observation distance from the target surface, and the velocities of these species were derived accordingly. Two emission peaks corresponding to a fast and a slow component of ablated Ti(I) were observed by optical time-of-flight spectroscopy. The origins of the two peaks and a possible mechanism for the laser ablation are discussed.

  6. Range safety signal propagation through the SRM exhaust plume of the space shuttle

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Boynton, F. P.; Davies, A. R.; Rajasekhar, P. S.; Thompson, J. A.

    1977-01-01

    Theoretical predictions of plume interference for the space shuttle range safety system by solid rocket booster exhaust plumes are reported. The signal propagation was calculated using a split operator technique based upon the Fresnel-Kirchoff integral, using fast Fourier transforms to evaluate the convolution and treating the plume as a series of absorbing and phase-changing screens. Talanov's lens transformation was applied to reduce aliasing problems caused by ray divergence.

  7. Interplay of wavelength, fluence and spot-size in free-electron laser ablation of cornea.

    PubMed

    Hutson, M Shane; Ivanov, Borislav; Jayasinghe, Aroshan; Adunas, Gilma; Xiao, Yaowu; Guo, Mingsheng; Kozub, John

    2009-06-08

    Infrared free-electron lasers ablate tissue with high efficiency and low collateral damage when tuned to the 6-microm range. This wavelength-dependence has been hypothesized to arise from a multi-step process following differential absorption by tissue water and proteins. Here, we test this hypothesis at wavelengths for which cornea has matching overall absorption, but drastically different differential absorption. We measure etch depth, collateral damage and plume images and find that the hypothesis is not confirmed. We do find larger etch depths for larger spot sizes--an effect that can lead to an apparent wavelength dependence. Plume imaging at several wavelengths and spot sizes suggests that this effect is due to increased post-pulse ablation at larger spots.

  8. Improved model for the angular dependence of excimer laser ablation rates in polymer materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pedder, J. E. A.; Holmes, A. S.; Dyer, P. E.

    2009-10-01

    Measurements of the angle-dependent ablation rates of polymers that have applications in microdevice fabrication are reported. A simple model based on Beer's law, including plume absorption, is shown to give good agreement with the experimental findings for polycarbonate and SU8, ablated using the 193 and 248 nm excimer lasers, respectively. The modeling forms a useful tool for designing masks needed to fabricate complex surface relief by ablation.

  9. Experimental and computational study of the effect of 1 atm background gas on nanoparticle generation in femtosecond laser ablation of metals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Han; Wu, Chengping; Zhang, Nan; Zhu, Xiaonong; Ma, Xiuquan; Zhigilei, Leonid V.

    2018-03-01

    Laser ablation of metal targets is actively used for generation of chemically clean nanoparticles for a broad range of practical applications. The processes involved in the nanoparticle formation at all relevant spatial and temporal scales are still not fully understood, making the precise control of the size and shape of the nanoparticles challenging. In this paper, a combination of molecular dynamics simulations and experiments is applied to investigate femtosecond laser ablation of aluminum targets in vacuum and in 1 atm argon background gas. The results of the simulations reveal a strong effect of the background gas environment on the initial plume expansion and evolution of the nanoparticle size distribution. The suppression of the generation of small/medium-size Al clusters and formation of a dense layer at the front of the expanding ablation plume, observed during the first nanosecond of the plume expansion in a simulation performed in the gas environment, have important implications on the characteristics of the nanoparticles deposited on a substrate and characterized in the experiments. The nanoparticles deposited in the gas environment are found to be more round-shaped and less flattened as compared to those deposited in vacuum. The nanoparticle size distributions exhibit power-law dependences with similar values of exponents obtained from fitting experimental and simulated data. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that the gas environment may be effectively used to control size and shape of nanoparticles generated by laser ablation.

  10. Evaluation of pressure in a plasma produced by laser ablation of steel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hermann, Jörg; Axente, Emanuel; Craciun, Valentin; Taleb, Aya; Pelascini, Frédéric

    2018-05-01

    We investigated the time evolution of pressure in the plume generated by laser ablation with ultraviolet nanosecond laser pulses in a near-atmospheric argon atmosphere. These conditions were previously identified to produce a plasma of properties that facilitate accurate spectroscopic diagnostics. Using steel as sample material, the present investigations benefit from the large number of reliable spectroscopic data available for iron. Recording time-resolved emission spectra with an echelle spectrometer, we were able to perform accurate measurements of electron density and temperature over a time interval from 200 ns to 12 μs. Assuming local thermodynamic equilibrium, we computed the plasma composition within the ablated vapor material and the corresponding kinetic pressure. The time evolution of plume pressure is shown to reach a minimum value below the pressure of the background gas. This indicates that the process of vapor-gas interdiffusion has a negligible influence on the plume expansion dynamics in the considered timescale. Moreover, the results promote the plasma pressure as a control parameter in calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.

  11. Simulation of ablation and plume dynamics under femtosecond double-pulse laser irradiation of aluminum: Comparison of atomistic and continual approaches

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fokin, Vladimir B.; Povarnitsyn, Mikhail E.; Levashov, Pavel R.

    2017-02-01

    We elaborated two numerical methods, two-temperature hydrodynamics and hybrid two-temperature molecular dynamics, which take into account basic mechanisms of a metal target response to ultrashort laser irradiation. The model used for the description of the electronic subsystem is identical for both approaches, while the ionic part is defined by an equation of state in hydrodynamics and by an interatomic potential in molecular dynamics. Since the phase diagram of the equation of state and corresponding potential match reasonably well, the dynamics of laser ablation obtained by both methods is quite similar. This correspondence can be considered as a first step towards the development of a self-consistent combined model. Two important processes are highlighted in simulations of double-pulse ablation: (1) the crater depth decrease as a result of recoil flux formation in the nascent plume when the delay between the pulses increases; (2) the plume reheating by the second pulse that gives rise to two- three-fold growth of the electron temperature with the delay varying from 0 to 200 ps.

  12. High-speed photography of plasma during excimer laser-tissue interaction.

    PubMed

    Murray, Andrea K; Dickinson, Mark R

    2004-08-07

    During high fluence laser-tissue interaction, ablation of tissue occurs, debris is removed from the ablation site and is then ejected at high velocity. This debris may be observed as a combination of luminous plasma and non-luminous plume, both of which have the potential to shield the ablation site. This study examined the role of ablation debris in shielding the tissue and determined its effects on the ablation rate over a range of laser pulse energies, pulse repetition rates and pulse numbers for dentine; the velocity differences between hard and soft tissues were also examined. High-speed photography was carried out at up to 1 x 10(8) frames per second. A maximum velocity of 2.58 +/- 0.52 x 10(4) m s(-1) was recorded for dentine debris within the first 10 ns following ejection. The maximum duration of tissue shielding due to a single pulse, determined by attenuation of a probe beam, was found to be approximately 7 ms, approximately 80 micros of which was due to luminous plasma and the remainder due to the non-luminous plume.

  13. Plume dynamics from UV pulsed ablation of Al and Ti

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bauer, William; Perram, Glen; Haugan, Timothy

    2016-12-01

    Pulsed laser ablation of Al and Ti with a < 3.3 J/cm2 KrF laser and Ar background pressure of up to 1 Torr was performed to study the ablated plume. Mass loss experiments revealed the number of ablated atoms per pulse increases by 30% for Ti and 20% for Al as pressure decreases from 1 Torr to vacuum. Optical emission imaging performed using a gated ICCD revealed a strong dependence of shock front parameters, defined by the Sedov-Taylor blast and classical drag models, on background pressure. Spatially resolved optical emission spectroscopy from Al I, Al II, Ti I, and Ti II revealed ion temperatures of 104 K that decreased away from the target surface along the surface normal and neutral temperatures of 103 K independent of target distance. Comparison between kinetic energy in the shock and internal excitation energy reveals that nearly 100% of the energy is partitioned into shock front kinetic energy and 1% into internal excitation.

  14. Emission spectroscopy analysis during Nopal cladodes dethorning by laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peña-Díaz, M.; Ponce, L.; Arronte, M.; Flores, T.

    2007-04-01

    Optical emission spectroscopy of the pulsed laser ablation of spines and glochids from Opuntia (Nopal) cladodes was performed. Nopal cladodes were irradiated with Nd:YAG free-running laser pulses on their body, glochids and spines. Emission spectroscopy analyses in the 350-1000 nm region of the laser induced plasma were made. Plasma plume evolution characterization, theoretical calculations of plasma plume temperature and experiments varying the processing atmosphere showed that the process is dominated by a thermally activated combustion reaction which increases the dethorning process efficiency. Therefore, appropriate laser pulse energy for minimal damage of cladodes body and in the area beneath glochids and spines can be obtained.

  15. The influence of ns- and fs-LA plume local conditions on the performance of a combined LIBS/LA-ICP-MS sensor

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    LaHaye, Nicole L.; Phillips, Mark C.; Duffin, Andrew M.

    2016-01-01

    Both laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) are well-established analytical techniques with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. The combination of the two analytical methods is a very promising way to overcome the challenges faced by each method individually. We made a comprehensive comparison of local plasma conditions between nanosecond (ns) and femtosecond (fs) laser ablation (LA) sources in a combined LIBS and LA-ICP-MS system. The optical emission spectra and ICP-MS signal were recorded simultaneously for both ns- and fs-LA and figures of merit of the system were analyzed. Characterization of the plasma was conductedmore » by evaluating temperature and density of the plume under various irradiation conditions using optical emission spectroscopy, and correlations to ns- and fs-LIBS and LA-ICP-MS signal were made. The present study is very useful for providing conditions for a multimodal system as well as giving insight into how laser ablation plume parameters are related to LA-ICP-MS and LIBS results for both ns- and fs-LA.« less

  16. Comparison of plume dynamics for laser ablated metals: Al and Ti

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bauer, William; Perram, Glen P.; Haugan, Timothy

    2018-03-01

    Emissive plumes from pulsed laser ablation of bulk Ti and Al from KrF laser irradiation at laser fluence up to 3.5 J/cm2 and argon background pressures of 0-1 Torr have been observed using gated intensified charged-coupled device imagery. Mass loss for Ti increases from 0.1 to 0.8 μg/pulse as pulse energy increase from 174 to 282 mJ/pulse (35-170 photons/atom) and decreases by ˜30% as pressure increases from vacuum to 1 Torr. Early plume energies are described by the free expansion velocities of 1.57 ± 0.02 and of 1.81 ± 0.07 cm/μs for Ti and Al, respectively, and up to 90% of the incoming laser energy can be attributed to the Al shock front in the mid-field. The ablation thresholds of 90 ± 27 mJ (1.12 ± 0.34 J/cm2) for Ti and 126 ± 13 mJ (1.58 ± 0.16 J/cm2) for Al also represent 30%-70% of the incident laser energy. The decrease in mass loss at higher pressures is attributed to plasma shielding of the target surface.

  17. Plasma plume expansion dynamics in nanosecond Nd:YAG laserosteotome

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abbasi, Hamed; Rauter, Georg; Guzman, Raphael; Cattin, Philippe C.; Zam, Azhar

    2018-02-01

    In minimal invasive laser osteotomy precise information about the ablation process can be obtained with LIBS in order to avoid carbonization, or cutting of wrong types of tissue. Therefore, the collecting fiber for LIBS needs to be optimally placed in narrow cavities in the endoscope. To determine this optimal placement, the plasma plume expansion dynamics in ablation of bone tissue by the second harmonic of a nanosecond Nd:YAG laser at 532 nm has been studied. The laserinduced plasma plume was monitored in different time delays, from one nanosecond up to one hundred microseconds. Measurements were performed using high-speed gated illumination imaging. The expansion features were studied using illumination of the overall visible emission by using a gated intensified charged coupled device (ICCD). The camera was capable of having a minimum gate width (Optical FWHM) of 3 ns and the timing resolution (minimum temporal shift of the gate) of 10 ps. The imaging data were used to generate position-time data of the luminous plasma-front. Moreover, the velocity of the plasma plume expansion was studied based on the time-resolved intensity data. By knowing the plasma plume profile over time, the optimum position (axial distance from the laser spot) of the collecting fiber and optimal time delay (to have the best signal to noise ratio) in spatial-resolved and time-resolved laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) can be determined. Additionally, the function of plasma plume expansion could be used to study the shock wave of the plasma plume.

  18. Unsteady motion of laser ablation plume by vortex induced by the expansion of curved shock wave

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tran, D. T.; Mori, K.

    2017-02-01

    There are a number of industrial applications of laser ablation in a gas atmosphere. When an intense pulsed laser beam is irradiated on a solid surface in the gas atmosphere, the surface material is ablated and expands into the atmosphere. At the same time, a spherical shock wave is launched by the ablation jet to induce the unsteady flow around the target surface. The ablated materials, luminously working as tracer, exhibit strange unsteady motions depending on the experimental conditions. By using a high-speed video camera (HPV-X2), unsteady motion ablated materials are visualized at the frame rate more than 106 fps, and qualitatively characterized.

  19. IR-MALDESI MASS SPECTROMETRY IMAGING OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUE SECTIONS USING ICE AS A MATRIX

    PubMed Central

    Robichaud, Guillaume; Barry, Jeremy A.; Muddiman, David C.

    2014-01-01

    Infrared Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Electrospray Ionization (IR-MALDESI) Mass Spectrometry imaging of biological tissue sections using a layer of deposited ice as an energy absorbing matrix was investigated. Dynamics of plume ablation were first explored using a nanosecond exposure shadowgraphy system designed to simultaneously collect pictures of the plume with a camera and collect the FT-ICR mass spectrum corresponding to that same ablation event. Ablation of fresh tissue analyzed with and without using ice as a matrix were both compared using this technique. Effect of spot-to-spot distance, number of laser shots per pixel and tissue condition (matrix) on ion abundance was also investigated for 50 µm thick tissue sections. Finally, the statistical method called design of experiments was used to compare source parameters and determine the optimal conditions for IR-MALDESI of tissue sections using deposited ice as a matrix. With a better understanding of the fundamentals of ablation dynamics and a systematic approach to explore the experimental space, it was possible to improve ion abundance by nearly one order of magnitude. PMID:24385399

  20. Debris Albedo from Laser Ablation in Low and High Vacuum: Comparisons to Hypervelocity Impact

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Radhakrishnan, G.; Adams, P. M.; Alaan, D. R.; Panetta, C. J.

    The albedo of orbital debris fragments in space is a critical parameter used in the derivation of their physical sizes from optical measurements. The change in albedo results from scattering due to micron and sub-micron particles on the surface. There are however no known hypervelocity collision ground tests that simulate the high-vacuum conditions on-orbit. While hypervelocity impact experiments at a gun range can offer a realistic representation of the energy of impact and fragmentation, and can aid the understanding of albedo, they are conducted in low-pressure air that is not representative of the very high vacuum of 10-8 Torr or less that exists in the Low Earth Orbit environment. Laboratory simulation using laser ablation with a high power laser, on the same target materials as used in current satellite structures, is appealing because it allows for well-controlled investigations that can be coupled to optical albedo (reflectance) measurements of the resultant debris. This relatively low-cost laboratory approach can complement the significantly more elaborate and expensive field-testing of single-shot hypervelocity impact on representative satellite structures. Debris generated is optically characterized with UV-VIS-NIR reflectance, and particle size distributions can be measured. In-situ spectroscopic diagnostics (nanosecond time frame) provide an identification of atoms and ions in the plume, and plasma temperatures, allowing a correlation of the energetics of the ablated plume with resulting albedo and particle size distributions of ablated debris. Our laboratory experiments offer both a high-vacuum environment, and selection of any gaseous ambient, at any controlled pressure, thus allowing for comparison to the hypervelocity impact experiments in low-pressure air. Initial results from plume analysis, and size distribution and microstructure of debris collected on witness plates show that laser ablations in low-pressure air offer many similarities to the recent DebrisLV and DebriSat hypervelocity impact experiments, while ablations in high-vacuum provide critical distinctions.

  1. Atmospheric-pressure plasma jets: Effect of gas flow, active species, and snake-like bullet propagation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, S.; Wang, Z.; Huang, Q.

    2013-02-15

    Cold atmospheric-pressure plasma jets have recently attracted enormous interest owing to numerous applications in plasma biology, health care, medicine, and nanotechnology. A dedicated study of the interaction between the upstream and downstream plasma plumes revealed that the active species (electrons, ions, excited OH, metastable Ar, and nitrogen-related species) generated by the upstream plasma plume enhance the propagation of the downstream plasma plume. At gas flows exceeding 2 l/min, the downstream plasma plume is longer than the upstream plasma plume. Detailed plasma diagnostics and discharge species analysis suggest that this effect is due to the electrons and ions that are generatedmore » by the upstream plasma and flow into the downstream plume. This in turn leads to the relatively higher electron density in the downstream plasma. Moreover, high-speed photography reveals a highly unusual behavior of the plasma bullets, which propagate in snake-like motions, very differently from the previous reports. This behavior is related to the hydrodynamic instability of the gas flow, which results in non-uniform distributions of long-lifetime active species in the discharge tube and of surface charges on the inner surface of the tube.« less

  2. Measurement of magnetic field fluctuations and diamagnetic currents within a laser ablation plasma interacting with an axial magnetic field

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ikeda, S.; Horioka, K.; Okamura, M.

    Here, the guiding of laser ablation plasmas with axial magnetic fields has been used for many applications, since its effectiveness has been proven empirically. For more sophisticated and complicated manipulations of the plasma flow, the behavior of the magnetic field during the interaction and the induced diamagnetic current in the plasma plume needs to be clearly understood. To achieve the first milestone for establishing magnetic plasma manipulation, we measured the spatial and temporal fluctuations of the magnetic field caused by the diamagnetic current. We showed that the small fluctuations of the magnetic field can be detected by using a simplemore » magnetic probe. We observed that the field penetrates to the core of the plasma plume. The diamagnetic current estimated from the magnetic field had temporal and spatial distributions which were confirmed to be correlated with the transformation of the plasma plume. Our results show that the measurement by the magnetic probe is an effective method to observe the temporal and spatial distributions of the magnetic field and diamagnetic current. The systematic measurement of the magnetic field variations is a valuable method to establish the magnetic field manipulation of the laser ablation plasma.« less

  3. Measurement of magnetic field fluctuations and diamagnetic currents within a laser ablation plasma interacting with an axial magnetic field

    DOE PAGES

    Ikeda, S.; Horioka, K.; Okamura, M.

    2017-10-10

    Here, the guiding of laser ablation plasmas with axial magnetic fields has been used for many applications, since its effectiveness has been proven empirically. For more sophisticated and complicated manipulations of the plasma flow, the behavior of the magnetic field during the interaction and the induced diamagnetic current in the plasma plume needs to be clearly understood. To achieve the first milestone for establishing magnetic plasma manipulation, we measured the spatial and temporal fluctuations of the magnetic field caused by the diamagnetic current. We showed that the small fluctuations of the magnetic field can be detected by using a simplemore » magnetic probe. We observed that the field penetrates to the core of the plasma plume. The diamagnetic current estimated from the magnetic field had temporal and spatial distributions which were confirmed to be correlated with the transformation of the plasma plume. Our results show that the measurement by the magnetic probe is an effective method to observe the temporal and spatial distributions of the magnetic field and diamagnetic current. The systematic measurement of the magnetic field variations is a valuable method to establish the magnetic field manipulation of the laser ablation plasma.« less

  4. Annual Report of the Navy Aeroballistics Committee to the Naval Air Systems Command and the Naval Sea Systems Command for 1981.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-03-01

    effects of plume impingement. 6 5. RECOMMENDATION: An investigation should be conducted to determine the benefits of using an ablator or insulation on the...ablator or insulator on the external surface has been considered and used in past missile designs. However, a comprehensive and organized investigation...speed, there is a potential for a greater payoff for the use of an external ablator or insulation to maintain the structure at a low temperature. 6

  5. Submarine melting from repeat UAV surveys of icebergs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hubbard, A., II; Ryan, J.; Smith, L. C.; Hamilton, G. S.

    2017-12-01

    Greenland's tidewater glaciers are a primary contributor to global sea-level rise, yet their future trajectory remains uncertain due to their non-linear response to oceanic forcing: particularly with respect to rapid submarine melting and under-cutting of their calving fronts. To improve understanding of ice-ocean interactions, we conducted repeat unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) surveys across the terminus of Store Glacier and its adjacent fjord between May and June 2014. The derived imagery provides insight into frontal plume dynamics and the changing freeboard volume of icebergs in the fjord as they ablate. Following the methodology of Enderlin and Hamilton (2014), by differencing iceberg freeboard volume, we constrain submarine melt rates adjacent to the calving front. We find that plume and submarine melt rates are critical to mass loss variability across the calving front. Although the frontal ablation of Store Glacier is dominated by large mechanical calving events, the undercutting induced by the meltwater plume increases the frequency of calving and initiates frontal retreat. We conclude that even small increases in submarine melting due to changes in the meltwater plume duration and/or circulation patterns can have important consequences for frontal mass loss from large outlet glaciers draining the Greenland ice sheet.

  6. Deposition of high quality YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films over large areas by pulsed laser ablation with substrate scanning

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davis, M. F.; Wosik, J.; Forster, K.; Deshmukh, S. C.; Rampersad, H. R.

    1991-01-01

    The paper describes thin films deposited in a system where substrates are scanned over areas up to 3.5 x 3.5 cm through the stationary plume of an ablated material defined by an aperture. These YBCO films are deposited on LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 substrates with the thickness of 90 and 160 nm. Attention is focused on the main features of the deposition system: line focusing of the laser beam on the target; an aperture defining the area of the plume; computerized stepper motor-driven X-Y stage translating the heated sampler holder behind the plume-defining aperture in programmed patterns; and substrate mounting block with uniform heating at high temperatures over large areas. It is noted that the high degree of uniformity of the properties in each film batch illustrates that the technique of pulsed laser deposition can be applied to produce large YBCO films of high quality.

  7. Time dynamics of burst-train filamentation assisted femtosecond laser machining in glasses.

    PubMed

    Esser, Dagmar; Rezaei, Saeid; Li, Jianzhao; Herman, Peter R; Gottmann, Jens

    2011-12-05

    Bursts of femtosecond laser pulses with a repetition rate of f = 38.5MHz were created using a purpose-built optical resonator. Single Ti:Sapphire laser pulses, trapped inside a resonator and released into controllable burst profiles by computer generated trigger delays to a fast Pockels cell switch, drove filamentation-assisted laser machining of high aspect ratio holes deep into transparent glasses. The time dynamics of the hole formation and ablation plume physics on 2-ns to 400-ms time scales were examined in time-resolved side-view images recorded with an intensified-CCD camera during the laser machining process. Transient effects of photoluminescence and ablation plume emissions confirm the build-up of heat accumulation effects during the burst train, the formation of laser-generated filaments and plume-shielding effects inside the deeply etched vias. The small time interval between the pulses in the present burst train enabled a more gentle modification in the laser interaction volume that mitigated shock-induced microcracks compared with single pulses.

  8. Thermal Convection on an Irradiated Target

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehmedagic, Igbal; Thangam, Siva

    2016-11-01

    The present work involves the computational modeling of metallic targets subject to steady and high intensity heat flux. The ablation and associated fluid dynamics when metallic surfaces are exposed to high intensity laser fluence at normal atmospheric conditions is modelled. The incident energy from the laser is partly absorbed and partly reflected by the surface during ablation and subsequent vaporization of the melt. Computational findings based on effective representation and prediction of the heat transfer, melting and vaporization of the targeting material as well as plume formation and expansion are presented and discussed in the context of various ablation mechanisms, variable thermo-physical and optical properties, plume expansion and surface geometry. The energy distribution during the process between the bulk and vapor phase strongly depends on optical and thermodynamic properties of the irradiated material, radiation wavelength, and laser intensity. The relevance of the findings to various manufacturing processes as well as for the development of protective shields is discussed. Funded in part by U. S. Army ARDEC, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ.

  9. Magnetic-particles-composed wire structures produced by pulsed laser deposition in a magnetic field

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nikov, Ru; Dikovska, A.; Nedyalkov, N.; Atanasov, P.

    2018-03-01

    We demonstrate the possibility to fabricate wire structures composed by arranged magnetic particles using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in the presence of a magnetic field. Ablation of Ni and Co targets was performed in air by nanosecond laser pulses delivered by a Nd:YAG laser system oscillating at 355 nm. Due to the high density of the ambient, particles and clusters were formed by condensation in the plasma plume close to the target. The strong deceleration of the ablated material under these conditions further benefited the efficiency of applying a magnetic field to the plume. We also studied the effect of the target-to-substrate distance and the ambient pressure on the morphology of the deposited structures.

  10. Laser ablation based fuel ignition

    DOEpatents

    Early, J.W.; Lester, C.S.

    1998-06-23

    There is provided a method of fuel/oxidizer ignition comprising: (a) application of laser light to a material surface which is absorptive to the laser radiation; (b) heating of the material surface with the laser light to produce a high temperature ablation plume which emanates from the heated surface as an intensely hot cloud of vaporized surface material; and (c) contacting the fuel/oxidizer mixture with the hot ablation cloud at or near the surface of the material in order to heat the fuel to a temperature sufficient to initiate fuel ignition. 3 figs.

  11. Laser ablation based fuel ignition

    DOEpatents

    Early, James W.; Lester, Charles S.

    1998-01-01

    There is provided a method of fuel/oxidizer ignition comprising: (a) application of laser light to a material surface which is absorptive to the laser radiation; (b) heating of the material surface with the laser light to produce a high temperature ablation plume which emanates from the heated surface as an intensely hot cloud of vaporized surface material; and (c) contacting the fuel/oxidizer mixture with the hot ablation cloud at or near the surface of the material in order to heat the fuel to a temperature sufficient to initiate fuel ignition.

  12. Seafloor Spreading Reorganization South of Iceland

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hey, R. N.; Martinez, F.; Benediktsdottir, A.; Hoskuldsson, A.

    2011-12-01

    There is a major ongoing diachronous reorganization of North Atlantic seafloor spreading occurring at present south of Iceland, from an orthogonal ridge/transform geometry to the present oblique spreading geometry without transform faults on the Reykjanes Ridge. This reorganization is presently interpreted as a thermal phenomenon, with a pulse of warmer mantle expanding away from the Iceland plume causing a progressive change in subaxial mantle rheology from brittle to ductile, so that transform faults can no longer be maintained. Given that this is certainly the most obvious and arguably the type-example of active plate boundary reorganization, it is somewhat surprising that a thermal mechanism has near universal acceptance here whereas most if not all other seafloor spreading reorganizations are equally universally thought to result from the tectonic rift propagation mechanism. This suggests the possibility that either the thermal model might be wrong here, or that the propagating rift (PR) model might be wrong elsewhere. The reason the PR alternative was ignored here was that the younger seafloor record flanking the Reykjanes Ridge consisting of V-shaped ridges, troughs & scarps (VSRs) enclosed by the reorganization wake seemed to prove that there had been no rift propagation. It had long been thought that these VSRs were symmetric about the spreading axis, & if this conventional wisdom (that led directly to the pulsing Iceland plume model) were true, rift propagation, which must produce asymmetry, could not have occurred. However, our expedition collected marine geophysical data that showed that the VSRs actually have an asymmetric geometry consistent with rift propagation, not with previous pulsing plume models, & thus they can no longer be considered convincing proof of a pulsing Iceland plume. Although we had previously noted that plume pulses might drive the propagators away from Iceland, a significant new result (Benediktsdóttir et al., 2011) is that excellent magnetic anomaly fits can only be achieved if some rift propagation toward Iceland has also occurred. These newly identified propagators toward Iceland can't be driven by plume pulses even if the ones propagating away from Iceland are. Rift propagation is an alternative way to produce V-shaped wakes of thin crust & grabens, e.g. Earth's deepest axial valley is at the tip of the Pito propagator which has created the transient Easter microplate. (Hey had the great pleasure of sailing on the Nautile expedition Jean Francheteau led to Pito Deep, & after that advised his students to sail on French ships every chance they got). The involvement of rift propagation in VSR formation suggests this is also a possible explanation for the ongoing major transform-fault eliminating reorganization. If so, the tip of the reorganization would presently be near the first transform fault south of Iceland, the Bight transform near 56.8N, rather than in the extensively surveyed area 200 km farther north where the thermal reorganization model predicted the reorganization tip should be.

  13. Involvement of small carbon clusters in the enhancement of high-order harmonic generation of ultrashort pulses in the plasmas produced during ablation of carbon-contained nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ganeev, R. A.

    2017-09-01

    Various carbon-based nanoparticles ablated at the conditions suitable for efficient harmonic generation during propagation of ultrashort pulses through the laser-produced plasmas were studied. The transmission electron microscopy of ablated debris and the time-of-flight mass-spectroscopy studies of plasmas are presented. The conditions of laser ablation of the carbon-contained nanoparticles (fullerenes, graphene, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, and diamond nanoparticles) were varied to define the impeding processes restricting the harmonic yield from such laser-produced plasmas. These studies show that the enhancement of harmonics during ablation of nanoparticle targets was related with the appearance of small carbon clusters at the moment of propagation of the ultrashort laser pulses though such plasmas.

  14. Formation of carbon allotrope aerosol by colliding plasmas in an inertial fusion reactor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hirooka, Y.; Sato, H.; Ishihara, K.; Yabuuchi, T.; Tanaka, K. A.

    2014-02-01

    Along with repeated implosions, the interior of an inertial fusion target chamber is exposed to short pulses of high-energy x-ray, unburned DT-fuel particles, He-ash and pellet debris. As a result, chamber wall materials are subjected to ablation, emitting particles in the plasma state. Ablated particles will either be re-deposited elsewhere or collide with each other, perhaps in the centre-of-symmetry region of the chamber volume. Colliding ablation plasma particles can lead to the formation of clusters to grow into aerosol, possibly floating thereafter, which can deteriorate the subsequent implosion performance via laser scattering, etc. In a laboratory-scale YAG laser setup, the formation of nano-scale aerosol has been demonstrated in vacuum at irradiation power densities of the orders of 108-10 W cm-2 at 10 Hz, each 6 ns long, simulating the high-repetition rate inertial fusion reactor situation. Interestingly, carbon aerosol formation has been observed in the form of fullerene onion, nano- and micro-tubes when laser-ablated plasma plumes of carbon collide with each other. In contrast, colliding plasma plumes of metals tend to generate aerosol in the form of droplets under identical laser irradiation conditions. An atomic and molecular reaction model is proposed to interpret the process of carbon allotrope aerosol formation.

  15. Laser ablation and deposition of wide bandgap semiconductors: plasma and nanostructure of deposits diagnosis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanz, M.; López-Arias, M.; Rebollar, E.; de Nalda, R.; Castillejo, M.

    2011-12-01

    Nanostructured CdS and ZnS films on Si (100) substrates were obtained by nanosecond pulsed laser deposition at the wavelengths of 266 and 532 nm. The effect of laser irradiation wavelength on the surface structure and crystallinity of deposits was characterized, together with the composition, expansion dynamics and thermodynamic parameters of the ablation plume. Deposits were analyzed by environmental scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction, while in situ monitoring of the plume was carried out with spectral, temporal and spatial resolution by optical emission spectroscopy. The deposits consist of 25-50 nm nanoparticle assembled films but ablation in the visible results in larger aggregates (150 nm) over imposed on the film surface. The aggregate free films grown at 266 nm on heated substrates are thicker than those grown at room temperature and in the former case they reveal a crystalline structure congruent with that of the initial target material. The observed trends are discussed in reference to the light absorption step, the plasma composition and the nucleation processes occurring on the substrate.

  16. Advection and dispersion of bed load tracers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lajeunesse, Eric; Devauchelle, Olivier; James, François

    2018-05-01

    We use the erosion-deposition model introduced by Charru et al. (2004) to numerically simulate the evolution of a plume of bed load tracers entrained by a steady flow. In this model, the propagation of the plume results from the stochastic exchange of particles between the bed and the bed load layer. We find a transition between two asymptotic regimes. The tracers, initially at rest, are gradually set into motion by the flow. During this entrainment regime, the plume is strongly skewed in the direction of propagation and continuously accelerates while spreading nonlinearly. With time, the skewness of the plume eventually reaches a maximum value before decreasing. This marks the transition to an advection-diffusion regime in which the plume becomes increasingly symmetrical, spreads linearly, and advances at constant velocity. We analytically derive the expressions of the position, the variance, and the skewness of the plume and investigate their asymptotic regimes. Our model assumes steady state. In the field, however, bed load transport is intermittent. We show that the asymptotic regimes become insensitive to this intermittency when expressed in terms of the distance traveled by the plume. If this finding applies to the field, it might provide an estimate for the average bed load transport rate.

  17. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, Sivanandan S.; LaHaye, Nicole L.; Phillips, Mark C.

    We used a CW laser as a narrow-band (~50kHz) tunable LIF excitation source to probe absorption from selected atomic transitions (Al, U etc. ) in a ns laser ablation plume. A comparison of fluorescence signal with respect to emission spectroscopy show significant increase in the magnitude and persistence from selected Al and U transitions in a LIBS plume. The high spectral resolution provided by the LIF measurement allows peaks to be easily separated even if they overlap in the emission spectra.

  18. Evaluation of the communications impact of a low power arcjet thruster

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Carney, Lynnette M.

    1988-01-01

    The interaction of a 1 kW arcjet thruster plume with a communications signal is evaluated. A two-parameter, source flow equation has been used to represent the far flow field distribution of the arcjet plume in a realistic spacecraft configuration. Modelling the plume as a plasma slab, the interaction of the plume with a 4 GHz communications signal is then evaluated in terms of signal attenuation and phase shift between transmitting and receiving antennas. Except for propagation paths which pass very near the arcjet source, the impacts to transmission appear to be negligible. The dominant signal loss mechanism is refraction of the beam rather than absorption losses due to collisions. However, significant reflection of the signal at the sharp vacuum-plasma boundary may also occur for propagation paths which pass near the source.

  19. Composition of the excimer laser-induced plume produced during LASIK refractive surgery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Glickman, Randolph D.; Liu, Yun; Mayo, George L.; Baribeau, Alan D.; Starck, Tomy; Bankhead, Tom

    2003-07-01

    Because of concerns about potential hazards to surgical personnel of the plume associated with laser refractive surgery, this study was performed to characterize the composition of such plumes. Filter elements were removed from the smoke evacuator of a VISX S3 excimer laser (filter pore size ~0.3 microns) and from a Mastel Clean Room ( filter pore size ~0.2 microns) used with a LADARVISION excimer laser. The filters from both laser systems captured the laser-induced plumes from multiple, routine, LASIK patient procedures. Some filters were processed for scanning electron microscopy, while others were extracted with methanol and chloroform for biochemical analysis. Both the VISX "Final Air" filter and the Mastel "Clean Room" filter captured material that was not observed in filters that had clean operating room air only passed through them. In the VISX system, air flows through the filter unit parallel to the filter matrix. SEM analysis showed these filters captured discrete particles of 0.3 to 3.0 microns in size. In the Mastel Clean Room unit, air flows orthogonally through the filter, and the filter matrix was heavily layered with captured debris so that individual particles were not readily distinguished. Amino acid analysis and gel electrophoresis of extracted material revealed proteinaceous molecules as large as 5000 molecular weight. Such large molecules in the laser plume are not predicted by the existing theory of photochemical ablation. The presence of relatively large biomolecules may constitute a risk of allergenic reactions in personnel exposed to the plume, and also calls into question the precise mechanism of excimer laser photochemical ablation. Supported by the RMG Research Endowment, and Research to Prevent Blindness

  20. Experimental Results of the Impact of an Ion Thruster Plasma on Microwave Propagation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zaman, Afroz J.; Lambert, Kevin M.

    2000-01-01

    Electric thrusters are being considered for a variety of space missions because of the significant propellant savings that result from the use of high performance, electric propulsion technologies. Propellant mass savings reduces spacecraft launch requirements and increases mission lifetime and payload. The impact of electric thruster plasma plumes on microwave signal propagation however is an important spacecraft integration concern. Arcjets were the first electric thrusters to be considered for operational missions. Ling, et al. studied the effect of arcjet plumes on propagation. Arcjets produce a lightly ionized plume and Ling's analysis predicted that the plume would have a negligible effect on communication. Plumes from the higher performance ion thrusters being developed exhibit higher ionization levels, plasma temperatures and particle velocities than arcjets. Therefore, there was a need to assess the impact due to these plumes. To address this need, the authors designed and performed a series of experiments to examine propagation effects of plumes. The challenge with these experiments was that they had to be performed in the operational environment of the thruster. Therefore, the experiments were conducted inside a metal chamber which could be depressurized to simulate a near vacuum condition of space. The metal chamber presents a potential large source of error to the propagation measurements due to the corruption of the desired data by multiple wall reflections within the chamber. This chamber effect was minimized by employing a pulsed-continuous wave transmitter and receiver system. This system based on an HP8510 Network Analyzer, uses external hardware time gating to eliminate the clutter of the spurious reflections. Additionally, high gain antennas were used in the measurements to ensure that minimal amounts of energy were transmitted/received in undesirable directions. The measurements took place in Vacuum Facility 5 of the Electric Propulsion Laboratory at the NASA Glenn Research Center. This facility utilizes a cylindrical, stainless steel, vacuum chamber, which is 18.3 m long and 4.6 m in diameter. For the tests being described here a 30 cm diameter, xenon ion thruster was used. The thruster provided between 500 W and 2.3 kW of operating power. The thruster was mounted on a stand along the axis of the chamber near one of its ends and could be moved axially.

  1. Experimental Results of the Impact of an Ion Thruster Plasma on Microwave Propagation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zaman, Afroz J.; Lambert, Kevin M.

    2000-01-01

    Electric thrusters are being considered for a variety of space missions because of the significant propellant savings that result from the use of high performance, electric propulsion technologies, Propellant mass savings reduces spacecraft launch requirements and increases mission lifetime and payload. The impact of electric thruster plasma plumes on microwave signal propagation however is an important spacecraft integration concern. Arcjets were the first electric thrusters to be considered for operational missions. Ling, et al., studied the effect of arcjet plumes on propagation. Arcjets produce a lightly ionized plume and Ling's analysis predicted that the plume would have a negligible effect on communication. Plumes from the higher performance ion thrusters being developed exhibit higher ionization levels, plasma temperatures and particle velo@ities than arcjets. Therefore, there was a need to assess the impact due to these plumes. To address this need, the authors designed and performed a series of experiments to examine propagation effects of plumes. The challenge with these experiments was that they had to be performed in the operational environment of the thruster. Therefore, the experiments were conducted inside a metal chamber which could be depressurized to simulate a near vacuum condition of space. The metal chamber presents a potential large source of error to the propagation measurements due to the corruption of the desired data by multiple wall reflections within the chamber. This chamber effect was minimized by employing a pulsed-continuous wave transmitter and receiver system. This system, based on an HP8510 Network Analyzer, uses external hardware time gating to eliminate the clutter of the spurious reflections. Additionally, high gain antennas were used in the measurements to ensure that minimal amounts of energy ",ere transmitted/received in undesirable directions. The measurements took place in Vacuum Facility 5 of the Electric Propulsion Laboratory at the NASA Glenn Research Center. This facility utilizes a cylindrical, stainless steel, vacuum chamber, which is 18.3 m long and 4.6 m in diameter. For the tests being described here a 30 cm diameter, xenon ion thruster was used. The thruster provided between 500 W and 2.3 kW of operating power. The thruster was mounted on a stand along the axis of the chamber near one of its ends.

  2. Modeling a three-dimensional river plume over continental shelf using a 3D unstructured grid model

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Cheng, R.T.; Casulli, V.; ,

    2004-01-01

    River derived fresh water discharging into an adjacent continental shelf forms a trapped river plume that propagates in a narrow region along the coast. These river plumes are real and they have been observed in the field. Many previous investigations have reported some aspects of the river plume properties, which are sensitive to stratification, Coriolis acceleration, winds (upwelling or downwelling), coastal currents, and river discharge. Numerical modeling of the dynamics of river plumes is very challenging, because the complete problem involves a wide range of vertical and horizontal scales. Proper simulations of river plume dynamics cannot be achieved without a realistic representation of the flow and salinity structure near the river mouth that controls the initial formation and propagation of the plume in the coastal ocean. In this study, an unstructured grid model was used for simulations of river plume dynamics allowing fine grid resolution in the river and in regions near the coast with a coarse grid in the far field of the river plume in the coastal ocean, in the vertical, fine fixed levels were used near the free surface, and coarse vertical levels were used over the continental shelf. The simulations have demonstrated the uniquely important role played by Coriolis acceleration. Without Coriolis acceleration, no trapped river plume can be formed no matter how favorable the ambient conditions might be. The simulation results show properties of the river plume and the characteristics of flow and salinity within the estuary; they are completely consistent with the physics of estuaries and coastal oceans.

  3. 78 FR 19743 - Government-Owned Inventions, Available for Licensing

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-02

    ... Calibration System; NASA Case No.: LAR-18132-1: Modeling of Laser Ablation and Plume Chemistry in a Boron Nitride Nanotube Production Rig; NASA Case No.: LAR-17681-2: System for Repairing Cracks in Structures...

  4. Doppler Global Velocimetry at NASA Glenn Research Center: System Discussion and Results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lant, Christian T.

    2003-01-01

    A ruggedized Doppler Global Velocimetry system has been built and tested at NASA Glenn Research Center. One component of planar velocity measurements of subsonic and supersonic flows from an under-expanded free jet are reported, which agree well with predicted values. An error analysis evaluates geometric and spectral error terms, and characterizes speckle noise in isotropic data. A multimode, fused fiber optic bundle is demonstrated to couple up to 650 mJ/pulse of laser light without burning or fiber ablation, and without evidence of Stimulated Brillouin Scattering or other spectral-broadening problems. Comparisons are made between spinning wheel data using illumination by freespace beam propagation and fiber optic beam delivery. The fiber bundle illumination is found to provide more spatially even and stable illumination than is typically available from pulsed Nd:YAG laser beams. The fiber bundle beam delivery is also a step toward making remote measurements and automatic real-time plume sectioning feasible in wind tunnel environments.

  5. Detecting frontal ablation processes from direct observations of submarine terminus morphology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fried, M.; Carroll, D.; Catania, G. A.; Sutherland, D. A.; Stearns, L. A.; Bartholomaus, T. C.; Shroyer, E.; Nash, J. D.

    2017-12-01

    Tidewater glacier termini couple glacier and ocean systems. Subglacial discharge emerging from the terminus produces buoyant plumes that modulate submarine melting, calving, fjord circulation and, in turn, changes in ice dynamics from back-stress perturbations. However, the absence of critical observational data at the ice-ocean interface limits plume and, by extension, melt models from incorporating realistic submarine terminus face morphologies and assessing their impact on terminus behavior at tidewater glaciers. Here we present a comprehensive inventory and characterization of submarine terminus face shapes from a side-looking, multibeam echo sounding campaign across Kangerdlugssuaq Sermerssua glacier, central-west Greenland. We combine these observations with in-situ measurements of ocean stratification and remotely sensed subglacial discharge, terminus positions, ice velocity, and ice surface datasets to infer the spectrum of processes sculpting the submarine terminus face. Subglacial discharge outlet locations are confirmed through observations of sediment plumes, localized melt-driven undercutting of the terminus face, and bathymetry of the adjacent seafloor. From our analysis, we differentiate terminus morphologies resulting from submarine melt and calving and assess the contribution of each process to the net frontal ablation budget. Finally, we constrain a plume model using direct observations of the submarine terminus face and conduit geometry. Plume model simulations demonstrate that the majority of discharge outlets are fed by small discharge fluxes, suggestive of a distributed subglacial hydrologic system. Outlets with the largest, concentrated discharge fluxes are morphologically unique and strongly control seasonal terminus position. At these locations, we show that the spatiotemporal pattern of terminus retreat is well correlated with time periods when local melt rate exceeds ice velocity.

  6. Experimental Demonstration of Microwave Signal/Electric Thruster Plasma Interaction Effects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zaman, Afroz J.; Lambert, Kevin M.; Curran, Frank M.

    1995-01-01

    An experiment was designed and conducted in the Electric Propulsion Laboratory of NASA Lewis Research Center to assess the impact of ion thruster exhaust plasma plume on electromagnetic signal propagation. A microwave transmission experiment was set up inside the propulsion test bed using a pair of broadband horn antennas and a 30 cm 2.3 kW ion thruster. Frequency of signal propagation covered from 6.5 to 18 GHz range. The stainless steel test bed when enclosed can be depressurized to simulate a near vacuum environment. A pulsed CW system with gating hardware was utilized to eliminate multiple chamber reflections from the test signal. Microwave signal was transmitted and received between the two hours when the thruster was operating at a given power level in such a way that the signal propagation path crossed directly through the plume volume. Signal attenuation and phase shift due to the plume was measured for the entire frequency band. Results for this worst case configuration simulation indicate that the effects of the ion thruster plume on microwave signals is a negligible attenuation (within 0.15 dB) and a small phase shift (within 8 deg.). This paper describes the detailed experiment and presents some of the results.

  7. Confluence or independence of microwave plasma bullets in atmospheric argon plasma jet plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Ping; Chen, Zhaoquan; Mu, Haibao; Xu, Guimin; Yao, Congwei; Sun, Anbang; Zhou, Yuming; Zhang, Guanjun

    2018-03-01

    Plasma bullet is the formation and propagation of a guided ionization wave (streamer), normally generated in atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ). In most cases, only an ionization front produces in a dielectric tube. The present study shows that two or three ionization fronts can be generated in a single quartz tube by using a microwave coaxial resonator. The argon APPJ plumes with a maximum length of 170 mm can be driven by continuous microwaves or microwave pulses. When the input power is higher than 90 W, two or three ionization fronts propagate independently at first; thereafter, they confluence to form a central plasma jet plume. On the other hand, the plasma bullets move independently as the lower input power is applied. For pulsed microwave discharges, the discharge images captured by a fast camera show the ionization process in detail. Another interesting finding is that the strongest lightening plasma jet plumes always appear at the shrinking phase. Both the discharge images and electromagnetic simulations suggest that the confluence or independent propagation of plasma bullets is resonantly excited by the local enhanced electric fields, in terms of wave modes of traveling surface plasmon polaritons.

  8. Influence of the distance between target surface and focal point on the expansion dynamics of a laser-induced silicon plasma with spatial confinement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Dan; Chen, Anmin; Wang, Xiaowei; Wang, Ying; Sui, Laizhi; Ke, Da; Li, Suyu; Jiang, Yuanfei; Jin, Mingxing

    2018-05-01

    Expansion dynamics of a laser-induced plasma plume, with spatial confinement, for various distances between the target surface and focal point were studied by the fast photography technique. A silicon wafer was ablated to induce the plasma with a Nd:YAG laser in an atmospheric environment. The expansion dynamics of the plasma plume depended on the distance between the target surface and focal point. In addition, spatially confined time-resolved images showed the different structures of the plasma plumes at different distances between the target surface and focal point. By analyzing the plume images, the optimal distance for emission enhancement was found to be approximately 6 mm away from the geometrical focus using a 10 cm focal length lens. This optimized distance resulted in the strongest compression ratio of the plasma plume by the reflected shock wave. Furthermore, the duration of the interaction between the reflected shock wave and the plasma plume was also prolonged.

  9. Analysis of plume emissions after papovavirus irradiation with the carbon dioxide laser

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bellina, J.H.; Stjernholm, R.L.; Kurpel, J.E.

    1982-05-01

    This study was undertaken to evaluate potential inhalation hazards to operating room personnel after irradiation of tumors with the carbon dioxide laser. Cellular debris was analyzed for viability using labeled nucleotides and labeled glucose. In this way the plume was investigated for the presence of material with oncogenic potential. Most surgeons who have ablated venereal warts or certain tumors with the carbon dioxide laser have worried about possible hazards of inhaling the vapor that is produced as a result of their work. We utilized three methods to determine whether viable particles exist in the laser plume. Fortunately, it is mostmore » comforting that the metabolic studies, DNA and RNA studies and cytologic studies seem to indicate that the plume is biologically inactive.« less

  10. Numerical analysis of laser ablation and damage in glass with multiple picosecond laser pulses.

    PubMed

    Sun, Mingying; Eppelt, Urs; Russ, Simone; Hartmann, Claudia; Siebert, Christof; Zhu, Jianqiang; Schulz, Wolfgang

    2013-04-08

    This study presents a novel numerical model for laser ablation and laser damage in glass including beam propagation and nonlinear absorption of multiple incident ultrashort laser pulses. The laser ablation and damage in the glass cutting process with a picosecond pulsed laser was studied. The numerical results were in good agreement with our experimental observations, thereby revealing the damage mechanism induced by laser ablation. Beam propagation effects such as interference, diffraction and refraction, play a major role in the evolution of the crater structure and the damage region. There are three different damage regions, a thin layer and two different kinds of spikes. Moreover, the electronic damage mechanism was verified and distinguished from heat modification using the experimental results with different pulse spatial overlaps.

  11. Propagation of the Sea of Azov plume in the Black Sea and its relation with atmospheric forcing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zavialov, Ivan; Osadchiev, Alexander

    2017-04-01

    This work is devoted to research of the influence of wind forcing on propagation of the Sea of Azov water plume in the Black Sea. The Sea of Azov water is characterized by relatively low salinity and high concentrations of suspended matter, terrigenic nutrients, and anthropogenic pollutants. Thus, the Sea of Azov inflow has significant impacts on physical, chemical, and biological processes in the Black Sea. The increased concentration of the suspended matter in the Sea of Azov plume allows to determine accurately its borders based on remote sensing data. For this purpose, data of the satellite color scanner MERIS/EnviSat with 300-meter spatial resolution were used. Atmospheric forcing on the Sea of Azov plume was investigated with the data of 6-hour reanalysis of winds (MERRA and NCAR/NCEP) with spatial resolution at 1/2 degrees in latitude and 2/3 degrees in longitude. Based on satellite images and wind reanalysis data for 2002-2012 period, it was established that the Azov Sea water inflow is favored by strong N and NE winds, which prevail in the region. It is evident in the processed satellite data that the Sea of Azov plume mainly extends along the east coast of the Crimean peninsula. In some cases under sufficiently strong winds, the Azov waters spread to the southern coast of the Crimea, and sometimes even to its south-west extremity. Factors influencing the propagation of the Azov Sea plume include intensity of water exchange between the Azov and the Black seas, the Rim Current, mesoscale eddies and other dynamic processes. However, the study demonstrated that the influence of wind forcing is dominant. Empirical regressions are derived expressing the dependence of the Azov plume area and its orientation on the magnitude and directions of the wind stress. Satellite-derived statistics of the Azov plume in the Black Sea characteristics are obtained.

  12. The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull and 2011 Grimsvötn ash plumes as seen by GPS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grapenthin, R.; Hreinsdottir, S.; Gudmundsson, M. T.

    2015-12-01

    The injection of a volcanic plume introduces a dynamic, localized, short-term heterogeneity in the atmosphere. Satellite-imagery based remote sensing techniques provide good spatial coverage for the detection of such plumes, but slow satellite repeat times (>30 minutes) and cloud cover can delay, if not entirely prevent, the detection. GPS, in turn, provides excellent temporal coverage, but requires favorable satellite-station-geometry such that the signal propagates through the plume if it is to be used for plume detection and analysis. Two methods exist to detect / analyze ash plumes with GPS: (a) Ash-heavy plumes result in signal dispersion and hence a lowered signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). A lowered SNR, recorded by some receivers, can provide useful information about the plume, such as location and velocity of ascent. These data can be evaluated directly as they are recorded by the receiver; without the need of solving for a receiver's position. (b) Wet plumes refract the GPS signals piercing the plume and hence induce a propagation delay. When solving for a receiver position GPS analysis tools do not model this localized phase delay effect and solutions for plume-piercing satellites do not fit the data well. This can be exploited for plume analysis such as the estimation of changes to the atmospheric refractivity index. We analyze GPS data of the ~2 month 2010 Eyafjallajökull erption and the week-long 2011 Grímsvötn eruption to infer a first order estimate of plume geometry and its progression. Using SNR and phase delay information, we evaluate the evolution of the partitioning of wet versus dry parts of the plume. During the GPS processing we iteratively solve for phase-delay and position and fix other parameters, hence reducing the mapping of least-squares misfit into position estimates and other parameters. Nearly continuous webcam imagery provides independent observations of first-order plume characteristics for the Eyafjallajökull event.

  13. Experimental Investigation of Molecular Species Formation in Metal Plasmas During Laser Ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Radousky, H.; Crowhurst, J.; Rose, T.; Armstrong, M.; Stavrou, E.; Zaug, J.; Weisz, D.; Azer, M.; Finko, M.; Curreli, D.

    2016-10-01

    Atomic and molecular spectra on metal plasmas generated by laser ablation have been measured using single, nominally 6-7 ns pulses at 1064 nm, and with energies less than 50 mJ. The primary goal for these studies is to constrain the physical and chemical mechanisms that control the distribution of radionuclides in fallout after a nuclear detonation. In this work, laser emission spectroscopy was used to obtain in situdata for vapor phase molecular species as they form in a controlled oxygen atmosphere for a variety of metals such as Fe, Al, as well as preliminary results for U. In particular, the ablation plumes created from these metals have been imaged with a resolution of 10 ns, and it is possible to observe the expansion of the plume out to 0.5 us. These data serve as one set of inputs for a semi-empirical model to describe the chemical fractionation of uranium during fallout formation. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. This project was sponsored by the Department of the Defense, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, under Grant Number HDTRA1-16-1-0020.

  14. Global Modeling of Uranium Molecular Species Formation Using Laser-Ablated Plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Curreli, Davide; Finko, Mikhail; Azer, Magdi; Armstrong, Mike; Crowhurst, Jonathan; Radousky, Harry; Rose, Timothy; Stavrou, Elissaios; Weisz, David; Zaug, Joseph

    2016-10-01

    Uranium is chemically fractionated from other refractory elements in post-detonation nuclear debris but the mechanism is poorly understood. Fractionation alters the chemistry of the nuclear debris so that it no longer reflects the chemistry of the source weapon. The conditions of a condensing fireball can be simulated by a low-temperature plasma formed by vaporizing a uranium sample via laser heating. We have developed a global plasma kinetic model in order to model the chemical evolution of U/UOx species within an ablated plasma plume. The model allows to track the time evolution of the density and energy of an uranium plasma plume moving through an oxygen atmosphere of given fugacity, as well as other relevant quantities such as average electron and gas temperature. Comparison of model predictions with absorption spectroscopy of uranium-ablated plasmas provide preliminary insights on the key chemical species and evolution pathways involved during the fractionation process. This project was sponsored by the DoD, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Grant HDTRA1-16-1-0020. This work was performed in part under the auspices of the U.S. DoE by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  15. Influence of the shielding effect on the formation of a micro-texture on the cermet with nanosecond pulsed laser ablation.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Jiandong; Liang, Liang; Jiang, Lelun; Liu, Xin

    2018-04-01

    The degree of laser pulse overlapping in a laser scanning path has a significant impact on the ablation regime in the laser machining of a micro-texture. In this Letter, a nanosecond pulsed laser is used to prepare the micro-scaled groove on WC-8Co cermet under different scanning speeds. It is observed that as the scanning speed increases, the ablated trace morphology in the first scanning pass transits from a succession of intermittent deep dimples to the consecutive overlapped shallow pits. The test result also indicates that ablated trace morphology with respect to the low scanning speed stems from a plume shielding effect. Moreover, the ablation regime considering the shielding effect in micro-groove formation process is clarified. The critical scanning speed that can circumvent the shielding effect is also summarized with respect to different laser powers.

  16. Tracing the plasma interactions for pulsed reactive crossed-beam laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Jikun; Stender, Dieter; Pichler, Markus; Döbeli, Max; Pergolesi, Daniele; Schneider, Christof W.; Wokaun, Alexander; Lippert, Thomas

    2015-10-01

    Pulsed reactive crossed-beam laser ablation is an effective technique to govern the chemical activity of plasma species and background molecules during pulsed laser deposition. Instead of using a constant background pressure, a gas pulse with a reactive gas, synchronized with the laser beam, is injected into vacuum or a low background pressure near the ablated area of the target. It intercepts the initially generated plasma plume, thereby enhancing the physicochemical interactions between the gaseous environment and the plasma species. For this study, kinetic energy resolved mass-spectrometry and time-resolved plasma imaging were used to study the physicochemical processes occurring during the reactive crossed beam laser ablation of a partially 18O substituted La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 target using oxygen as gas pulse. The characteristics of the ablated plasma are compared with those observed during pulsed laser deposition in different oxygen background pressures.

  17. Morphology and characteristics of laser-induced aluminum plasma in argon and in air: A comparative study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bai, Xueshi; Cao, Fan; Motto-Ros, Vincent; Ma, Qianli; Chen, Yanping; Yu, Jin

    2015-11-01

    In laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), ablation takes place in general in an ambient gas of the atmospheric pressure, often in air but also in noble gas such as argon or helium. The use of noble gas is known to significantly improve the performance of the technique. We investigate in this work the morphology and the characteristics of induced plasma in argon and in air. The purpose is to understand the mechanism of the analytical performance improvement by the use of argon ambient with respective to air ambient and the dependence on the other experimental parameters such as the laser fluence. The observation of plasma morphology in different ambient gases provides also information for better design of the detection system which optimizes the signal collection according to the used ambient gases. More specifically, the expansion of the plasma induced on an aluminum target with nanosecond infrared (1064 nm) laser pulse in two ambient gases, argon and the atmospheric air, has been studied with spectroscopic imaging at short delays and with emission spectroscopy at longer delays. With relatively low ablation laser fluence (65 J/cm2), similar morphologies have been observed in argon and in air over the early stage of plasma expansion, while diagnostics at longer delay shows stronger emission, higher electron density and temperature for plasma induced in argon. With higher ablation laser fluence (160 J/cm2) however, different expansion behaviors have been observed, with a stagnating aluminum vapor near the target surface in air while a propagating plume away from the target in argon. The craters left on the target surface show as well corresponding difference: in air, the crater is very shallow with a target surface chaotically affected by the laser pulse, indicating an effective re-deposition of the ablated material back to the crater; while in Ar a deeper crater is observed, indicating an efficient mass removal by laser ablation. At longer delays, a brighter, denser and hotter plasma is always observed in argon than in air as with lower ablation laser fluences. The observed different influences of the ambient gas on the plasma expansion behavior for different laser fluences are related to the different modes of laser-supported absorption waves, namely laser-supported combustion (LSC) wave and laser-supported detonation (LSD) wave.

  18. Deposition and element fractionation processes during atmospheric pressure laser sampling for analysis by ICP-MS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eggins, S. M.; Kinsley, L. P. J.; Shelley, J. M. G.

    1998-05-01

    We have used an ArF excimer laser coupled to a quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the measurement of a range of elements during excavation of a deepening ablation pit in a synthetic glass (NIST 612). Analyte behaviour shows progressive volatile element enrichment at shallow hole depths, with a change to refractory element enrichment as the ablation pit deepens further. Examination of ablation pit morphology and the surface condensate deposited around the ablation site reveals the importance of sequential condensation of refractory, then volatile phases from the cooling plasma plume after the end of the laser pulse. We interpret the observed element fractionation behaviour to reflect a change in ablation processes from photothermal dominated to plasma dominated mechanisms. The development of the surface deposit is greatly reduced by ablating in an ambient atmosphere of He instead of Ar and is accompanied by a two- to four-fold increase in ICP-MS sensitivity.

  19. Influence of electric field on the behavior of Si nanoparticles generated by laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muramoto, Junichi; Sakamoto, Ippei; Nakata, Yoshiki; Okada, Tatsuo; Maeda, Mitsuo

    1999-08-01

    The influence of an electric field on particle behavior was investigated to control the transport of Si nanoparticles in a laser ablation plume by an ultraviolet Rayleigh scattering (UV-RS) technique. The majority of the nanoparticles, which could be observed by the UV-RS technique, were transported to the negatively biased electrode, indicating that they were positively charged. The deposition efficiency of nanoparticles onto a substrate was also improved by applying an electric field.

  20. Comparison of acoustic shock waves generated by micro and nanosecond lasers for a smart laser surgery system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguendon Kenhagho, Hervé K.; Rauter, Georg; Guzman, Raphael; C. Cattin, Philippe; Zam, Azhar

    2018-02-01

    Characterization of acoustic shock wave will guarantee efficient tissue differentiation as feedback to reduce the probability of undesirable damaging (i.e. cutting) of tissues in laser surgery applications. We ablated hard (bone) and soft (muscle) tissues using a nanosecond pulsed Nd:YAG laser at 532 nm and a microsecond pulsed Er:YAG laser at 2.94 μm. When the intense short ns-pulsed laser is applied to material, the energy gain causes locally a plasma at the ablated spot that expands and propagates as an acoustic shock wave with a rarefaction wave behind the shock front. However, when using a μs-pulsed Er:YAG laser for material ablation, the acoustic shock wave is generated during the explosion of the ablated material. We measured and compared the emitted acoustic shock wave generated by a ns-pulsed Nd:YAG laser and a μs-pulsed Er:YAG laser measured by a calibrated microphone. As the acoustic shock wave attenuates as it propagates through air, the distance between ablation spots and a calibrated microphone was at 5 cm. We present the measurements on the propagation characteristics of the laser generated acoustic shock wave by measuring the arrival time-of-flight with a calibrated microphone and the energy-dependent evolution of acoustic parameters such as peak-topeak pressure, the ratio of the peak-to-peak pressures for the laser induced breakdown in air, the ablated muscle and the bone, and the spectral energy.

  1. DYNAMICS OF ON-DISK PLUMES AS OBSERVED WITH THE INTERFACE REGION IMAGING SPECTROGRAPH, THE ATMOSPHERIC IMAGING ASSEMBLY, AND THE HELIOSEISMIC AND MAGNETIC IMAGER

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pant, Vaibhav; Mazumder, Rakesh; Banerjee, Dipankar

    2015-07-01

    We examine the role of small-scale transients in the formation and evolution of solar coronal plumes. We study the dynamics of plume footpoints seen in the vicinity of a coronal hole using the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) images, the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager magnetogram on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory and spectroscopic data from the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS). Quasi-periodic brightenings are observed in the base of the plumes and are associated with magnetic flux changes. With the high spectral and spatial resolution of IRIS, we identify the sources of these oscillations and try to understand what role themore » transients at the footpoints can play in sustaining the coronal plumes. IRIS “sit-and-stare” observations provide a unique opportunity to study the evolution of footpoints of the plumes. We notice enhanced line width and intensity, and large deviation from the average Doppler shift in the line profiles at specific instances, which indicate the presence of flows at the footpoints of plumes. We propose that outflows (jet-like features) as a result of small-scale reconnections affect the line profiles. These jet-like features may also be responsible for the generation of propagating disturbances (PDs) within the plumes, which are observed to be propagating to larger distances as recorded from multiple AIA channels. These PDs can be explained in terms of slow magnetoacoustic waves.« less

  2. Doping He droplets by laser ablation with a pulsed supersonic jet source

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Katzy, R.; Singer, M.; Izadnia, S.

    Laser ablation offers the possibility to study a rich number of atoms, molecules, and clusters in the gas phase. By attaching laser ablated materials to helium nanodroplets, one can gain highly resolved spectra of isolated species in a cold, weakly perturbed system. Here, we present a new setup for doping pulsed helium nanodroplet beams by means of laser ablation. In comparison to more well-established techniques using a continuous nozzle, pulsed nozzles show significant differences in the doping efficiency depending on certain experimental parameters (e.g., position of the ablation plume with respect to the droplet formation, nozzle design, and expansion conditions).more » In particular, we demonstrate that when the ablation region overlaps with the droplet formation region, one also creates a supersonic beam of helium atoms seeded with the sample material. The processes are characterized using a surface ionization detector. The overall doping signal is compared to that of conventional oven cell doping showing very similar dependence on helium stagnation conditions, indicating a comparable doping process. Finally, the ablated material was spectroscopically studied via laser induced fluorescence.« less

  3. Upper-mantle origin of the Yellowstone hotspot

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Christiansen, R.L.; Foulger, G.R.; Evans, J.R.

    2002-01-01

    Fundamental features of the geology and tectonic setting of the northeast-propagating Yellowstone hotspot are not explained by a simple deep-mantle plume hypothesis and, within that framework, must be attributed to coincidence or be explained by auxiliary hypotheses. These features include the persistence of basaltic magmatism along the hotspot track, the origin of the hotspot during a regional middle Miocene tectonic reorganization, a similar and coeval zone of northwestward magmatic propagation, the occurrence of both zones of magmatic propagation along a first-order tectonic boundary, and control of the hotspot track by preexisting structures. Seismic imaging provides no evidence for, and several contraindications of, a vertically extensive plume-like structure beneath Yellowstone or a broad trailing plume head beneath the eastern Snake River Plain. The high helium isotope ratios observed at Yellowstone and other hotspots are commonly assumed to arise from the lower mantle, but upper-mantle processes can explain the observations. The available evidence thus renders an upper-mantle origin for the Yellowstone system the preferred model; there is no evidence that the system extends deeper than ???200 km, and some evidence that it does not. A model whereby the Yellowstone system reflects feedback between upper-mantle convection and regional lithospheric tectonics is able to explain the observations better than a deep-mantle plume hypothesis.

  4. Changes in optical properties during heating of ex vivo liver tissues

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nagarajan, Vivek Krishna; Gogineni, Venkateshwara R.; White, Sarah B.; Yu, Bing

    2017-02-01

    Thermal ablation is the use of heat to induce cell death through coagulative necrosis. Ideally, complete ablation of tumor cells with no damage to surrounding critical structures such as blood vessels, nerves or even organs is desired. Ablation monitoring techniques are often employed to ensure optimal tumor ablation. In thermal tissue ablation, tissue damage is known to be dependent on the temperature and time of exposure. Aptly, current methods for monitoring ablation rely profoundly on local tissue temperature and duration of heating to predict the degree of tissue damage. However, such methods do not take into account the microstructural and physiological changes in tissues as a result of thermocoagulation. Light propagation within biological tissues is known to be dependent on the tissue microstructure and physiology. During tissue denaturation, changes in tissue structure alter light propagations in tissue which could be used to directly assess the extent of thermal tissue damage. We report the use of a spectroscopic system for monitoring the tissue optical properties during heating of ex vivo liver tissues. We observed that during tissue denaturation, continuous changes in wavelength-averaged μa(λ) and μ's(λ) followed a sigmoidal trend and are correlated with damage predicted by Arrhenius model.

  5. Correlation of plume dynamics and oxygen pressure with VO2 stoichiometry during pulsed laser deposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lafane, S.; Kerdja, T.; Abdelli-Messaci, S.; Khereddine, Y.; Kechouane, M.; Nemraoui, O.

    2013-07-01

    Vanadium dioxide thin films have been deposited on Corning glass substrates by a KrF laser ablation of V2O5 target at the laser fluence of 2 J cm-2. The substrate temperature and the target-substrate distance were set to 500 ∘C and 4 cm, respectively. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that pure VO2 is only obtained at an oxygen pressure range of 4×10-3-2×10-2 mbar. A higher optical switching contrast was obtained for the VO2 films deposited at 4×10-3-10-2 mbar. The films properties were correlated to the plume-oxygen gas interaction monitored by fast imaging of the plume.

  6. Oxide or carbide nanoparticles synthesized by laser ablation of a bulk Hf target in liquids and their structural, optical, and dielectric properties

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Semaltianos, N. G., E-mail: nsemaltianos@yahoo.com; Friedt, J.-M.; Blondeau-Patissier, V.

    2016-05-28

    Laser ablation of a bulk Hf target in deionized (DI) water, ethanol, or toluene was carried out for the production of nanoparticles' colloidal solutions. Due to the interaction of the ablation plasma plume species with the species which are produced by the liquid decomposition at the plume-liquid interface, hafnia (HfO{sub 2}) nanoparticles are synthesized in DI water, hafnium carbide (HfC) nanoparticles in toluene, and a mixture of these in ethanol. The hafnia nanoparticles are in the monoclinic low temperature phase and in the tetragonal and fcc high temperature phases. Their size distribution follows log-normal function with a median diameter inmore » the range of 4.3–5.3 nm. Nanoparticles synthesized in DI water have band gaps of 5.6 and 5.4 eV, in ethanol 5.72 and 5.65 eV (using low and high pulse energy), and in toluene 3 eV. The values for the relative permittivity in the range of 7.74–8.90 were measured for hafnia nanoparticles' thin films deposited on substrates by drop-casting (self-assembled layers) in parallel plate capacitor structures.« less

  7. Hydrothermal venting along Earth's fastest spreading center: East Pacific Rise, 27.5°-32.3°

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baker, E. T.; Hey, R. N.; Lupton, J. E.; Resing, J. A.; Feely, R. A.; Gharib, J. J.; Massoth, G. J.; Sansone, F. J.; Kleinrock, M.; Martinez, F.; Naar, D. F.; Rodrigo, C.; Bohnenstiehl, D.; Pardee, D.

    2002-07-01

    During March/April 1998 we conducted detailed mapping and sampling of hydrothermal plumes along six segments of Earth's fasting spreading mid-ocean ridge, 27.5°-32.3°S on the East Pacific Rise. We compared the distribution and chemistry of hydrothermal plumes to geological indicators of long-term (spreading rate) and moderate-term (ridge inflation) variations in magmatic budget. In this large-offset, propagating rift setting, these geological indices span virtually the entire range found along fast spreading ridges worldwide. Hydrothermal plumes overlaid ~60% of the length of superfast (>130 km/Myr) spreading axis surveyed and defined at least 14 separate vent fields. We observed no plumes over the slower spreading propagating segments. Finer-scale variations in the magmatic budget also correlated with hydrothermal activity, as the location of the five most intense plumes corresponded to subsegment peaks in ridge inflation. Along the entire ridge crest, the more inflated a ridge location the more likely it was to be overlain by a hydrothermal plume. Plume chemistry mostly reflected discharge from mature vent fields apparently unperturbed by magmatic activity within the last few years. Plume samples with high volatile/metal ratios, generally indicating recent seafloor volcanism, were scarce. Along-axis trends in both volatile (3He; CH4; ΔpH, a proxy for CO2; and particulate S) and nonvolatile (Fe, Mn) species showed a first-order agreement with the trend of ridge inflation. Nevertheless, a broad correspondence between the concentration of volatile species in plumes and geological proxies of magma supply identifies a pervasive magmatic imprint on this superfast spreading group of ridge segments.

  8. Ambient infrared laser ablation mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) with plume capture by continuous flow solvent probe

    DOEpatents

    O'Brien, Jeremy T.; Williams, Evan R.; Holman, Hoi-Ying N.

    2017-10-31

    A new experimental setup for spatially resolved ambient infrared laser ablation mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) that uses an infrared microscope with an infinity-corrected reflective objective and a continuous flow solvent probe coupled to a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer is described. The efficiency of material transfer from the sample to the electrospray ionization emitter was determined using glycerol/methanol droplets containing 1 mM nicotine and is .about.50%. This transfer efficiency is significantly higher than values reported for similar techniques.

  9. Propagating intensity disturbances in polar corona as seen from AIA/SDO

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krishna Prasad, S.; Banerjee, D.; Gupta, G. R.

    2011-04-01

    Context. Polar corona is often explored to find the energy source for the acceleration of the fast solar wind. Earlier observations show omni-presence of quasi-periodic disturbances, traveling outward, which is believed to be caused by the ubiquitous presence of outward propagating waves. These waves, mostly of compressional type, might provide the additional momentum and heat required for the fast solar wind acceleration. It has been conjectured that these disturbances are not due to waves but high speed plasma outflows, which are difficult to distinguish using the current available techniques. Aims: With the unprecedented high spatial and temporal resolution of AIA/SDO, we search for these quasi-periodic disturbances in both plume and interplume regions of the polar corona. We investigate their nature of propagation and search for a plausible interpretation. We also aim to study their multi-thermal nature by using three different coronal passbands of AIA. Methods: We chose several clean plume and interplume structures and studied the time evolution of specific channels by making artificial slits along them. Taking the average across the slits, space-time maps are constructed and then filtration techniques are applied to amplify the low-amplitude oscillations. To suppress the effect of fainter jets, we chose wider slits than usual. Results: In almost all the locations chosen, in both plume and interplume regions we find the presence of propagating quasi-periodic disturbances, of periodicities ranging from 10-30 min. These are clearly seen in two channels and in a few cases out to very large distances (≈250″) off-limb, almost to the edge of the AIA field of view. The propagation speeds are in the range of 100-170 km s-1. The average speeds are different for different passbands and higher in interplume regions. Conclusions: Propagating disturbances are observed, even after removing the effects of jets and are insensitive to changes in slit width. This indicates that a coherent mechanism is involved. In addition, the observed propagation speed varies between the different passpands, implying that these quasi-periodic intensity disturbances are possibly due to magneto-acoustic waves. The propagation speeds in interplume region are higher than in the plume region. Figures 4 and 5 and movies are only available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

  10. Near field interaction of microwave signals with a bounded plasma plume

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ling, Hao; Hallock, Gary A.; Kim, Hyeongdong; Birkner, Bjorn

    1991-01-01

    The objective was to study the effect of the arcjet thruster plume on the performance of an onboard satellite reflector antenna. A project summary is presented along with sections on plasma and electromagnetic modeling. The plasma modeling section includes the following topics: wave propagation; plasma analysis; plume electron density model; and the proposed experimental program. The section on electromagnetic modeling includes new developments in ray modeling and the validation of three dimensional ray results.

  11. The modeling and synthesis of nanodiamonds by laser ablation of graphite and diamond-like carbon in liquid-confined ambient

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Basso, L.; Gorrini, F.; Bazzanella, N.; Cazzanelli, M.; Dorigoni, C.; Bifone, A.; Miotello, A.

    2018-01-01

    Nanodiamonds have attracted considerable interest for their potential applications in quantum computation, sensing, and bioimaging. However, synthesis of nanodiamonds typically requires high pressures and temperatures, and is still a challenge. Here, we demonstrate production of nanodiamonds by pulsed laser ablation of graphite and diamond-like carbon in water. Importantly, this technique enables production of nanocrystalline diamonds at room temperature and standard pressure conditions. Moreover, we propose a method for the purification of nanodiamonds from graphitic and amorphous carbon phases that do not require strong acids and harsh chemical conditions. Finally, we present a thermodynamic model that describes the formation of nanodiamonds during pulsed laser ablation. We show that synthesis of the crystalline phase is driven by a graphite-liquid-diamond transition process that occurs at the extreme thermodynamic conditions reached inside the ablation plume.

  12. EM Modelling of RF Propagation Through Plasma Plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pandolfo, L.; Bandinelli, M.; Araque Quijano, J. L.; Vecchi, G.; Pawlak, H.; Marliani, F.

    2012-05-01

    Electric propulsion is a commercially attractive solution for attitude and position control of geostationary satellites. Hall-effect ion thrusters generate a localized plasma flow in the surrounding of the satellite, whose impact on the communication system needs to be qualitatively and quantitatively assessed. An electromagnetic modelling tool has been developed and integrated into the Antenna Design Framework- ElectroMagnetic Satellite (ADF-EMS). The system is able to guide the user from the plume definition phases through plume installation and simulation. A validation activity has been carried out and the system has been applied to the plume modulation analysis of SGEO/Hispasat mission.

  13. Infrasonic ray tracing applied to small-scale atmospheric structures: thermal plumes and updrafts/downdrafts.

    PubMed

    Jones, R Michael; Bedard, Alfred J

    2015-02-01

    A ray-tracing program is used to estimate the refraction of infrasound by the vertical structure of the atmosphere in thermal plumes, showing only weak effects, as well as in updrafts and downdrafts, which can act as vertical wave guides. Thermal plumes are ubiquitous features of the daytime atmospheric boundary layer. The effects of thermal plumes on lower frequency sound propagation are minor with the exception of major events, such as volcanoes, forest fires, or industrial explosions where quite strong temperature gradients are involved. On the other hand, when strong, organized vertical flows occur (e.g., in mature thunderstorms and microbursts), there are significant effects. For example, a downdraft surrounded by an updraft focuses sound as it travels upward, and defocuses sound as it travels downward. Such propagation asymmetry may help explain observations that balloonists can hear people on the ground; but conversely, people on the ground cannot hear balloonists aloft. These results are pertinent for those making surface measurements from acoustic sources aloft, as well as for measurements of surface sound sources using elevated receivers.

  14. Radiofrequency electrode vibration-induced shear wave imaging for tissue modulus estimation: a simulation study.

    PubMed

    Bharat, Shyam; Varghese, Tomy

    2010-10-01

    Quasi-static electrode displacement elastography, used for in-vivo imaging of radiofrequency ablation-induced lesions in abdominal organs such as the liver and kidney, is extended in this paper to dynamic vibrational perturbations of the ablation electrode. Propagation of the resulting shear waves into adjoining regions of tissue can be tracked and the shear wave velocity used to quantify the shear (and thereby Young's) modulus of tissue. The algorithm used utilizes the time-to-peak displacement data (obtained from finite element analyses) to calculate the speed of shear wave propagation in the material. The simulation results presented illustrate the feasibility of estimating the Young's modulus of tissue and is promising for characterizing the stiffness of radiofrequency-ablated thermal lesions and surrounding normal tissue.

  15. Cross-shore transport of nearshore sediment by river plume frontal pumping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horner-Devine, Alexander R.; Pietrzak, Julie D.; Souza, Alejandro J.; McKeon, Margaret A.; Meirelles, Saulo; Henriquez, Martijn; Flores, Raúl P.; Rijnsburger, Sabine

    2017-06-01

    We present a new mechanism for cross-shore transport of fine sediment from the nearshore to the inner shelf resulting from the onshore propagation of river plume fronts. Onshore frontal propagation is observed in moorings and radar images, which show that fronts penetrate onshore through the nearshore and surf zone, almost to the waterline. During frontal passage a two-layer counterrotating velocity field characteristic of tidal straining is immediately set up, generating a net offshore flow beneath the plume. The seaward flow at depth carries with it high suspended sediment concentrations, which appear to have been generated by wave resuspension in the nearshore region. These observations describe a mechanism by which vertical density stratification can drive exchange of material between the nearshore region and the inner shelf. To our knowledge these are the first observations of this frontal pumping mechanism, which is expected to play an important role in sediment transport near river mouths.

  16. Effect of mass and density of ambient gas on the interaction of laser-blow-off plasma plumes propagating in close proximity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kumar, Bhupesh; Singh, R. K.; Kumar, Ajai, E-mail: ajai@ipr.res.in

    2016-04-15

    The effects of mass and pressure of ambient gas on the propagation dynamics of two laser-blow-off plasma plumes created in close proximity are investigated. A time gated fast imaging technique is used for recording the images of the laterally colliding plumes under different experimental conditions. Pressure is varied from 0.1 to 3 mbar in three ambient, i.e., helium, neon, and argon. Emphasis is given on the nature of shock-shock interaction under different ambient conditions. It has been observed that the shock-velocity, shape, strength, and their interactions are strongly dependent on the mass and density of the ambient gases. The rolemore » of the interacting shocks and their subsequent reflections on the formation and geometrical shape of the interaction region in different ambient conditions is briefly described.« less

  17. Infrared laser ablation of polymeric nanocomposites: A study of surface structure and plume formation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bartolucci, S. F.; Miller, M. J.; Warrender, J. M.

    2016-12-01

    The behavior of carbon nanotube composites subjected to laser pulse heating with a 1070 nm variable pulse duration laser has been studied. Previous work has shown that carbon nanotube composites form a protective network on the surface of a composite, which reduces heat input to the underlying polymer and slows mass loss. In this work, we have studied the interaction between the incident laser and the plume formed above the composite. We have correlated these interactions with features observed in the time-resolved mass loss data and confirmed them with observations using high-speed video of the laser irradiations. Beam interactions were studied as a function of laser irradiance and nanotube content. It is shown that beam-plume interactions occur for the carbon nanotube composites and that the interactions occur at shorter pulse durations for increased nanotube content and laser irradiance. When we eliminate beam-plume interaction through alteration of the sample orientation relative to the incident beam, we are able to elucidate the individual contributions of the carbon nanotube surface network and the plume to the observed decrease in mass loss after laser irradiation. We examine the plume content using microscopy and Raman spectroscopy and show that greater beam absorption occurs when there is a higher graphitic content in the plume.

  18. Interaction of vortex ring with a stratified finite thickness interface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Advaith, S.; Manu, K. V.; Tinaikar, Aashay; Chetia, Utpal Kumar; Basu, Saptarshi

    2017-09-01

    This work experimentally investigates the dynamics of interaction between a propagating vortex ring and density stratified interface of finite thickness. The flow evolution has been quantified using a high speed shadowgraph technique and particle image velocimetry. The spatial and temporal behaviours of the vortex in the near and far field of the interface and the plume structure formed due to buoyancy are investigated systematically by varying the vortex strength (Reynolds number, Re) and the degree of stratification (Atwood number, At). Maximum penetration length (Lpmax) of the vortex ring through the interface is measured over a range of Reynolds (1350 ≤ Re ≤ 4600) and Richardson (0.1 ≤ Ri ≤ 4) numbers. It is found that for low Froude number values, the maximum penetration length varies linearly with the Froude number as in the study of Orlandi et al. ["Vortex rings descending in a stratified fluid," Phys. Fluids 10, 2819-2827 (1998)]. However, for high Reynolds and Richardson numbers (Ri), anomalous behaviour in maximum penetration is observed. The Lpmax value is used to characterize the vortex-interface interactions into non-penetrative, partially-penetrative, and extensively penetrative regimes. Flow visualization revealed the occurrence of short-wavelength instability of a plume structure, particularly in a partially penetrative regime. Fluid motion exhibits chaotic behaviour in an extensively penetrative regime. Detailed analyses of plume structure propagation are performed by measuring the plume length and plume rise. Appropriate scaling for the plume length and plume rise is derived, which allows universal collapse of the data for different flow conditions. Some information concerning the instability of the plume structure and decay of the vortex ring is obtained using proper orthogonal decomposition.

  19. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, Sivanandan S.; Brumfield, Brian E.; LaHaye, Nicole L.

    2018-04-20

    This review article covers the present status of isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Finally, concluding remarks will be made on the existing gaps between previous works in the literature and suggestions for future work.

  20. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    DOE PAGES

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; LaHaye, N. L.; ...

    2018-04-20

    This review article covers the present status of isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Lastly, concluding remarks will be made on the existing gaps between previous works in the literature and suggestions for future work.

  1. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; LaHaye, N. L.

    This review article covers the present status of isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Finally, concluding remarks will be made on the existing gaps between previous works in the literature and suggestions for future work.

  2. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; LaHaye, N. L.

    This review article covers the present status of isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Lastly, concluding remarks will be made on the existing gaps between previous works in the literature and suggestions for future work.

  3. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    DOE PAGES

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; LaHaye, N. L.; ...

    2018-06-01

    This review article covers the present status of isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Finally, concluding remarks will be made on the existing gaps between previous works in the literature and suggestions for future work.

  4. Interannual variability of Danube waters propagation in summer period of 1992-2015 and its influence on the Black Sea ecosystem

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kubryakov, A. A.; Stanichny, S. V.; Zatsepin, A. G.

    2018-03-01

    The propagation of the Danube River plume has strong interannual variability that impacts the local balance of nutrients and the thermohaline structure in the western Black Sea. In the present study, we use a particle-tracking model based on satellite altimetry measurements and wind reanalysis data, as well as satellite measurements (SeaWiFS, MODIS), to investigate the interannual variability in the Danube plume pathways during the summer from 1993 to 2015. The wind conditions largely define the variability in the Danube water propagation. Relatively low-frequency variability (on periods of a week to months) in the wind stress curl modulates the intensity of the geostrophic Rim Current and related mesoscale eddy dynamics. High-frequency offshore wind-drift currents transport the plume across isobaths and provide an important transport link between shelf and offshore circulation. Inherent plume dynamics play an additional role in the near-mouth transport of the plume and its connection with offshore circulation. During the years with prevailing northeast winds ( 30% of studied cases), which are usually accompanied by increased wind curl over the Black Sea and higher Danube discharge, an alongshore southward current at the NorthWestern Shelf (NWS) is formed near the western Black Sea coast. Advected southward, the Danube waters are entrained in the Rim Current jet, which transports them along the west coast of the basin. The strong Rim Current, fewer eddies and downwelling winds substantially decrease the cross-shelf exchange of nutrients. During the years with prevailing southeastern winds ( 40%), the Rim Current is less intense. Mesoscale eddies effectively trap the Danube waters, transporting them to the deep western part of the basin. The low- and high-frequency southeastern wind-drift currents contribute significantly to cross-isobath plume transport and its connection with offshore circulation. During several years ( 15%), the Danube waters moved eastward to the west coast of Crimea. They were transported on the north periphery of the mesoscale anticyclones due to prevailing eastward wind-drift currents. During the years with hot summers, a monsoon effect induced the formation of a strong anticyclonic wind cell over the NorthWestern Shelf (NWS), and the plume moved northward ( 15%). Anticyclonic wind circulation leads to the Ekman convergence of brackish surface waters in the centre of the shelf and the formation of a baroclinic geostrophic anticyclone north of the NWS. This anticyclone traps the Danube waters and forces them to remain on the shelf for a long period of time. The impact of the propagation of the plume on the variability in chlorophyll a chlorophyll a in the NWS and the western Black Sea is analysed in this study based on satellite data.

  5. Exploring the effects of temperature and grain size on plumes associated with PDCs through analogue experimentation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mitchell, S. J.; Eychenne, J.; Rust, A.

    2015-12-01

    Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) often loft upwards into convective, buoyant co-PDC plumes. Recent analogue experiments using a unimodal grain size of 22 ± 6 μm (Andrews & Manga, 2012) have established that plume generation is aided by PDC interaction with a topographic barrier. Here, we have simulated the onset of co-PDC plumes from the collapse of concentrated particle-gas mixtures comprised of unimodal or bimodal grain size distributions (GSD) of glass beads, using combinations of lognormal populations with modes of 35, 195 and 590 μm. The collapse of a mixture, with constant mass 2950 ± 150 g, induced the propagation of a gravity current channelized down a 13° sloping tank; a barrier in the tank caused the gravity current to produce a plume of particles. Experiments were recorded with high speed visible and thermal-infrared cameras. Initial GSD and temperature of the mixture were varied to assess the effects of the addition of a coarser component on plume generation. Analogue co-PDC plumes were only produced when a proportion of fine grains (35 μm) was present in the initial granular mixture. Sampling of the particles entrained in the co-PDC plumes revealed that fine grains (35 μm) are preferentially lofted, although a few coarser particles (195 or 590 μm) are also entrained in the co-PDC plumes and settle closer to the area of uplift. Increasing the initial temperature of the mixture increases plume height measured at 1 and 2s after onset; this is supported by repeat experiments at specific conditions. Bimodal mixtures containing both fine (35 μm) and coarser (195 or 590 μm) grains result in plume heights and initial flow velocities higher than observed in unimodal fine-grained experiments of the same total mass of particles. Repeat experiments identify the natural variability in plume generation under the same nominal conditions, which is likely due to the combined variations of momentum during flow propagation and heat-driven buoyancy, as well as the homogeneity of the initial particle mixture.

  6. Dynamic absorption and scattering of water and hydrogel during high-repetition-rate (>100 MHz) burst-mode ultrafast-pulse laser ablation.

    PubMed

    Qian, Zuoming; Covarrubias, Andrés; Grindal, Alexander W; Akens, Margarete K; Lilge, Lothar; Marjoribanks, Robin S

    2016-06-01

    High-repetition-rate burst-mode ultrafast-laser ablation and disruption of biological tissues depends on interaction of each pulse with the sample, but under those particular conditions which persist from previous pulses. This work characterizes and compares the dynamics of absorption and scattering of a 133-MHz repetition-rate, burst-mode ultrafast-pulse laser, in agar hydrogel targets and distilled water. The differences in energy partition are quantified, pulse-by-pulse, using a time-resolving integrating-sphere-based device. These measurements reveal that high-repetition-rate burst-mode ultrafast-laser ablation is a highly dynamical process affected by the persistence of ionization, dissipation of plasma plume, neutral material flow, tissue tensile strength, and the hydrodynamic oscillation of cavitation bubbles.

  7. Why the SL9 Plumes Were All About the Same Height

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zahnle, K.; MacLow, M.-M.; Cuzzi, Jeffery N. (Technical Monitor)

    1995-01-01

    Several of the SL9 ejecta plumes were observed by the HST to reach approximately the same height, about 3000 km above the jovian cloud tops. The duration of the infrared events, which were produced by the plume falling back on the atmosphere, measures time aloft and hence provides a second, more sensitive measure of plume height; the light curves indicate that the largest impacts produced modestly higher plumes. Evidently these plumes were launched with about the same vertical velocity, roughly 10-13 kilometers per second. As the impactors themselves were not all the same, nor the impacts equally luminous, nor the plumes equally opaque, the similar plume heights has been seen as a puzzle needing explanation. A second, closely related matter that needs to addressed quantitatively is the popular contention that a big plume requires a big impact. This view is misleading at best, yet plume heights can be used to constrain impact parameters. Dimensional analysis indicates that plume height goes as z alpha v (sup 2) (sub ej) alpha E/pH (sup 2), where v (sub ej) is the ejection velocity, E the explosion energy, and p and H the ambient pressure and scale height at termination. Using a semi-analytic model for the deceleration, disintegration, and destruction of intruding bodies by an ever-vigilant atmosphere, we find that the ratio E/pH(sup 2) is roughly constant for fragments with diameters of order 100 m to 1000 m. Constancy of v(sub ej) is in part due to the greater role of radiative ablation on the flight of smaller objects. We conclude that similar plume heights is a direct consequence of smaller impactors exploding at higher altitudes, in such a way that the different explosions were geometrically similar.

  8. A uniform laminar air plasma plume with large volume excited by an alternating current voltage

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Xuechen; Bao, Wenting; Chu, Jingdi; Zhang, Panpan; Jia, Pengying

    2015-12-01

    Using a plasma jet composed of two needle electrodes, a laminar plasma plume with large volume is generated in air through an alternating current voltage excitation. Based on high-speed photography, a train of filaments is observed to propagate periodically away from their birth place along the gas flow. The laminar plume is in fact a temporal superposition of the arched filament train. The filament consists of a negative glow near the real time cathode, a positive column near the real time anode, and a Faraday dark space between them. It has been found that the propagation velocity of the filament increases with increasing the gas flow rate. Furthermore, the filament lifetime tends to follow a normal distribution (Gaussian distribution). The most probable lifetime decreases with increasing the gas flow rate or decreasing the averaged peak voltage. Results also indicate that the real time peak current decreases and the real time peak voltage increases with the propagation of the filament along the gas flow. The voltage-current curve indicates that, in every discharge cycle, the filament evolves from a Townsend discharge to a glow one and then the discharge quenches. Characteristic regions including a negative glow, a Faraday dark space, and a positive column can be discerned from the discharge filament. Furthermore, the plasma parameters such as the electron density, the vibrational temperature and the gas temperature are investigated based on the optical spectrum emitted from the laminar plume.

  9. Characterisation of three-dimensional mapping in Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with septal aneurysmal dyskinesis.

    PubMed

    Okada, Seigo; Muneuchi, Jun; Origuchi, Hideki

    2018-01-01

    A 21-year-old man with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and aneurysmal septal dyskinesis underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation of the accessory pathways. Before radiofrequency catheter ablation, the activation wavefront arose from the aneurysmal septum, whereas the propagation of the left ventricle was normalised after radiofrequency catheter ablation. These findings demonstrate the importance of the electro-mechanical interaction in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and ventricular dysfunction.

  10. Estimation of Al2O3 critical temperature using a Langmuir probe in laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yahiaoui, K.; Abdelli-Messaci, S.; Messaoud Aberkane, S.; Kellou, A.

    2016-11-01

    Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) has demonstrated its capacity in thin films growing under the moderate laser intensity. But when the laser intensity increases, the presence of droplets on the thin film limits the PLD efficiency such that the process needs an optimization study. In this way, an experimental study has been conducted in order to correlate between the appearance of those droplets and the laser fluence. The comprehension of the physical mechanism during ablation and the control of the deposition parameters allowed to get a safe process. Our experiment consists in measuring the amount of ejected matter from polycrystalline alumina target as a function of the laser fluence when irradiated by a KrF laser. According to laser fluence, several kinds of ablation regimes have been identified. Below a threshold value found as 12 J/cm2, the mechanism of ablation was assigned to normal evaporation, desorption and nonthermal processes. While above this threshold value, the mechanism of ablation was assigned to phase explosion phenomenon which is responsible of droplets formation when the surface temperature approaches the critical temperature T tc. A negative charge collector was used to collect the positive ions in the plume. Their times of flight (TOF) signal were used to estimate the appropriate T tc for alumina target. Ions yield, current as well as kinetic energy were deduced from the TOF signal. Their evolutions show the occurrence of an optical breakdown in the vapor plume which is well correlated with the onset of the phase explosion phenomenon. At 10 J/cm2, the ions velocities collected by the probe have been compared to those obtained from optical emission spectroscopy diagnostic and were discussed. To prove the occurrence of phase explosion by the appearance of droplets, several thin films were elaborated on Si (100) substrate at different laser fluence into vacuum. They have been characterized by scanning electron microscope. The results were well correlated with those obtained with mass measurements as function of laser fluence.

  11. Launch Pad in a Box

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mantovani, J. G.; Tamasy, G. J.; Mueller, R. P.; Townsend, I. I.; Sampson, J. W.; Lane, M. A.

    2016-01-01

    NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is developing a new deployable launch system capability to support a small class of launch vehicles for NASA and commercial space companies to test and launch their vehicles. The deployable launch pad concept was first demonstrated on a smaller scale at KSC in 2012 in support of NASA Johnson Space Center's Morpheus Lander Project. The main objective of the Morpheus Project was to test a prototype planetary lander as a vertical takeoff and landing test-bed for advanced spacecraft technologies using a hazard field that KSC had constructed at the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF). A steel pad for launch or landing was constructed using a modular design that allowed it to be reconfigurable and expandable. A steel flame trench was designed as an optional module that could be easily inserted in place of any modular steel plate component. The concept of a transportable modular launch and landing pad may also be applicable to planetary surfaces where the effects of rocket exhaust plume on surface regolith is problematic for hardware on the surface that may either be damaged by direct impact of high speed dust particles, or impaired by the accumulation of dust (e.g., solar array panels and thermal radiators). During the Morpheus free flight campaign in 2013-14, KSC performed two studies related to rocket plume effects. One study compared four different thermal ablatives that were applied to the interior of a steel flame trench that KSC had designed and built. The second study monitored the erosion of a concrete landing pad following each landing of the Morpheus vehicle on the same pad located in the hazard field. All surfaces of a portable flame trench that could be directly exposed to hot gas during launch of the Morpheus vehicle were coated with four types of ablatives. All ablative products had been tested by NASA KSC and/or the manufacturer. The ablative thicknesses were measured periodically following the twelve Morpheus free flight tests. The thermal energy from the Morpheus rocket exhaust plume was only found to be sufficient to cause appreciable ablation of one of the four ablatives that were tested. The rocket exhaust plume did cause spalling of concrete during each descent and landing on a landing pad in the hazard field. The Extended Abstract ASE Earth and Space Conference April, 2016 - Orlando, FL concrete surface was laser scanned following each Morpheus landing, and the total volume of spalled concrete that eroded between the first and final landings of the Morpheus Project's test campaign was estimated. This paper will also describe a new deployable launch system (DLS) capability that is being developed at KSC and was publicly announced in May 2015 (KSC Partnerships, 2015). The DLS is a set of multi-user Ground Support Equipment that will be used to test and launch small class launch vehicles. The system is comprised of four main elements: the Launch Stand, the Flame Deflector, the Pad Apron and the KAMAG transporter. The system elements are designed to be deployed at launch or test sites within the KSC/CCAFS boundaries. The DLS is intended to be used together with the Fluid and Electrical System of the Universal Propellant Servicing Systems and Mobile Power Data and Communications Unit.

  12. Launch Pad in a Box

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mantovani, James; Tamasy, Gabor; Mueller, Rob; Townsend, Van; Sampson, Jeff; Lane, Mike

    2016-01-01

    NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is developing a new deployable launch system capability to support a small class of launch vehicles for NASA and commercial space companies to test and launch their vehicles. The deployable launch pad concept was first demonstrated on a smaller scale at KSC in 2012 in support of NASA Johnson Space Center's Morpheus Lander Project. The main objective of the Morpheus Project was to test a prototype planetary lander as a vertical takeoff and landing test-bed for advanced spacecraft technologies using a hazard field that KSC had constructed at the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF). A steel pad for launch or landing was constructed using a modular design that allowed it to be reconfigurable and expandable. A steel flame trench was designed as an optional module that could be easily inserted in place of any modular steel plate component. The concept of a transportable modular launch and landing pad may also be applicable to planetary surfaces where the effects of rocket exhaust plume on surface regolith is problematic for hardware on the surface that may either be damaged by direct impact of high speed dust particles, or impaired by the accumulation of dust (e.g., solar array panels and thermal radiators). During the Morpheus free flight campaign in 2013-14, KSC performed two studies related to rocket plume effects. One study compared four different thermal ablatives that were applied to the interior of a steel flame trench that KSC had designed and built. The second study monitored the erosion of a concrete landing pad following each landing of the Morpheus vehicle on the same pad located in the hazard field. All surfaces of a portable flame trench that could be directly exposed to hot gas during launch of the Morpheus vehicle were coated with four types of ablatives. All ablative products had been tested by NASA KSC and/or the manufacturer. The ablative thicknesses were measured periodically following the twelve Morpheus free flight tests. The thermal energy from the Morpheus rocket exhaust plume was only found to be sufficient to cause appreciable ablation of one of the four ablatives that were tested. The rocket exhaust plume did cause spalling of concrete during each descent and landing on a landing pad in the hazard field. The Extended Abstract ASE Earth and Space Conference April, 2016 - Orlando, FL concrete surface was laser scanned following each Morpheus landing, and the total volume of spalled concrete that eroded between the first and final landings of the Morpheus Project's test campaign was estimated. This paper will also describe a new deployable launch system (DLS) capability that is being developed at KSC and was publicly announced in May 2015 (KSC Partnerships, 2015). The DLS is a set of multi-user Ground Support Equipment that will be used to test and launch small class launch vehicles. The system is comprised of four main elements: the Launch Stand, the Flame Deflector, the Pad Apron and the KAMAG transporter. The system elements are designed to be deployed at launch or test sites within the KSC/CCAFS boundaries. The DLS is intended to be used together with the Fluid and Electrical System of the Universal Propellant Servicing Systems and Mobile Power Data and Communications Unit

  13. A novel method for fabrication of size-controlled metallic nanoparticles by laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choudhury, Kaushik; Singh, R. K.; Ranjan, Mukesh; Kumar, Ajai; Srivastava, Atul

    2017-12-01

    Time resolved experimental investigation of laser produced plasma-induced shockwaves has been carried out in the presence of confining walls placed along the lateral directions using a Mach Zehnder interferometer in air ambient. Copper was used as target material. The primary and the reflected shock waves and their effects on the evolution of medium density and the plasma density have been studied. The reflected shock wave has been seen to be affecting the shape and density of the plasma plume in the confined geometry. The same experiments were performed with water and isopropyl alcohol as the ambient liquids and the produced nanoparticles were characterised for size and size distribution. Significant differences in the size and size distribution are seen in case of the nanoparticles produced from the ablation of the targets with and without confining boundary. The observed trend has been attributed to the presence of confining boundary and the way it affects the thermalisation time of the plasma plume. The experiments also show the effect of medium density on the mean size of the copper nanoparticles produced.

  14. Significance of ambient conditions in uranium absorption and emission features of laser ablation plasmas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Skrodzki, P. J.; Shah, N. P.; Taylor, N.

    2016-11-01

    This study employs laser ablation (LA) to investigate mechanisms for U optical signal variation under various environmental conditions during laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) and optical emission spectroscopy (OES). Potential explored mechanisms for signal quenching related to ambient conditions include plasma chemistry (e.g., uranium oxide formation), ambient gas confinement effects, and other collisional interactions between plasma constituents and the ambient gas. LA-LAS studies show that the persistence of the U ground state population is significantly reduced in the presence of air ambient compared to nitrogen. LA-OES results yield congested spectra from which the U I 356.18 nm transition is prominent andmore » serves as the basis for signal tracking. LA-OES signal and persistence vary negligibly between the test gases (air and N2), unlike the LA-LAS results. The plume hydrodynamic features and plume fundamental properties showed similar results in both air and nitrogen ambient. Investigation of U oxide formation in the laser-produced plasma suggests that low U concentration in a sample hinders consistent detection of UO molecular spectra.« less

  15. Significance of ambient conditions in uranium absorption and emission features of laser ablation plasmas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Skrodzki, P. J.; Shah, N. P.; Taylor, N.

    2016-10-02

    This study employs laser ablation (LA) to investigate mechanisms for U optical signal variation under various environmental conditions during laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) and optical emission spectroscopy (OES). Potential mechanisms explored for signal quenching related to ambient conditions include plasma chemistry (e.g., uranium oxide formation), ambient gas confinement effects, and other collisional interactions between plas-ma constituents and the ambient gas. LA-LAS studies show that the persistence of the U ground state population is significantly reduced in the presence of air ambient compared to nitrogen. LA-OES yields congested spectra from which the U I 356.18 nm transition is prominent and servesmore » as the basis for signal tracking. LA-OES signal and per-sistence vary negligibly between the test gases (air and N 2), unlike the LA-LAS results. The plume hydrodynamic features and plume fundamental properties showed similar results in both air and nitrogen ambient. In conclusion, investigation of U oxide formation in the laser-produced plasma suggests that low U concentration in a sample hinders consistent detection of UO molecular spectra.« less

  16. Non-equilibrium modeling of UV laser induced plasma on a copper target in the presence of Cu{sup 2+}

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ait Oumeziane, Amina, E-mail: a.aitoumeziane@gmail.com; Liani, Bachir; Parisse, Jean-Denis

    2016-03-15

    This work is a contribution to the understanding of UV laser ablation of a copper sample in the presence of Cu{sup 2+} species as well as electronic non-equilibrium in the laser induced plasma. This particular study extends a previous paper and develops a 1D hydrodynamic model to describe the behavior of the laser induced plume, including the thermal non-equilibrium between electrons and heavy particles. Incorporating the formation of doubly charged ions (Cu{sup 2+}) in such an approach has not been considered previously. We evaluate the effect of the presence of doubly ionized species on the characteristics of the plume, i.e.,more » temperature, pressure, and expansion velocity, and on the material itself by evaluating the ablation depth and plasma shielding effects. This study evaluates the effects of the doubly charged species using a non-equilibrium hydrodynamic approach which comprises a contribution to the understanding of the governing processes of the interaction of ultraviolet nanosecond laser pulses with metals and the parameter optimization depending on the intended application.« less

  17. Flow speed of the ablation vapors generated during laser drilling of CFRP with a continuous-wave laser beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Faas, S.; Freitag, C.; Boley, S.; Berger, P.; Weber, R.; Graf, T.

    2017-03-01

    The hot plume of ablation products generated during the laser drilling process of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) with a continuous-wave laser beam was analyzed by means of high-speed imaging. The formation of compression shocks was observed within the flow of the evaporated material, which is an indication of flow speeds well above the local speed of sound. The flow speed of the hot ablation products can be estimated by analyzing the position of these compression shocks. We investigated the temporal evolution of the flow speed during the drilling process and the influence of the average laser power on the flow speed. The flow speed increases with increasing average laser powers. The moment of drilling through the material changes the conditions for the drilling process and was confirmed to influence the flow speed of the ablated material. Compression shocks can also be observed during laser cutting of CFRP with a moving laser beam.

  18. Cluster formation in laser-induced ablation and evaporation of solids observed by laser ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and scanning tunneling microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tench, R. J.; Balooch, M.; Bernardez, L.; Allen, Mike J.; Siekhaus, W. J.; Olander, D. R.; Wang, W.

    1990-04-01

    Laser ionization time-of-flight mass analysis (LIMA) used pulses (5ns) of a frequency-quadrupled Nd-YAG laser (266 nm) focused onto spots of 4 to 100 microns diameter to ablate material, and a reflectron time of flight tube to mass-analyze the plume. The observed mass spectra for Si, Pt, SiC, and UO 2 varied in the distribution of ablation products among atoms, molecules and clusters, depending on laser power density and target material. Cleaved surfaces of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) positioned at room temperature either 10 cm away from materials ablated at 10(exp -5) Torr by 1 to 3 excimer laser (308 nm) pulses of 20 ns duration or 1 m away from materials vaporized at 10(exp -8) Torr by 10 Nd-Glass laser pulses of 1 ms duration were analyzed by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) in air with angstrom resolution. Clusters up to 30 A in diameter were observed.

  19. A linear-field plasma jet for generating a brush-shaped laminar plume at atmospheric pressure

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Xuechen; Jia, Pengying, E-mail: plasmalab@126.com; Key Laboratory of Photo-Electronics Information Materials of Hebei Province, Baoding 071002

    2016-06-15

    A linear-field plasma jet composed of line-to-plate electrodes is used to generate a large-scale brush-shaped plasma plume with flowing argon used as working gas. Through electrical measurement and fast photography, it is found that the plasma plume bridges the two electrodes for the discharge in the positive voltage half-cycle, which behaves like fast moving plasma bullets directed from the anode to the cathode. Compared with the positive discharge, the negative discharge only develops inside the nozzle and propagates much slower. Results also indicate that the gas temperature of the plume is close to room temperature, which is promising for biomedicalmore » application.« less

  20. Key stages of material expansion in dielectrics upon femtosecond laser ablation revealed by double-color illumination time-resolved microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garcia-Lechuga, Mario; Solis, Javier; Siegel, Jan

    2018-03-01

    The physical origin of material removal in dielectrics upon femtosecond laser pulse irradiation (800 nm, 120 fs pulse duration) has been investigated at fluences slightly above ablation threshold. Making use of a versatile pump-probe microscopy setup, the dynamics and different key stages of the ablation process in lithium niobate have been monitored. The use of two different illumination wavelengths, 400 and 800 nm, and a rigorous image analysis combined with theoretical modelling, enables drawing a clear picture of the material excitation and expansion stages. Immediately after excitation, a dense electron plasma is generated. Few picoseconds later, direct evidence of a rarefaction wave propagating into the bulk is obtained, with an estimated speed of 3650 m/s. This process marks the onset of material expansion, which is confirmed by the appearance of transient Newton rings, which dynamically change during the expansion up to approximately 1 ns. Exploring delays up to 15 ns, a second dynamic Newton ring pattern is observed, consistent with the formation of a second ablation front propagating five times slower than the first one.

  1. Formation of Amorphous Carbon Nanoparticles by the Laser Electrodispersion Method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gurevich, S. A.; Gorokhov, M. V.; Kozhevin, V. M.; Kukushkin, M. V.; Levitskii, V. S.; Markov, L. K.; Yavsin, D. A.

    2018-03-01

    Experimental results on the laser ablation of the highly oriented pyrolytic graphite by using light pulses of an Nd:YAG laser (pulse width 25 ns, pulse energy 220 mJ) are presented. Analysis of the surface profile of the carbon target shows that the target material melts in the course of the laser ablation. As a result of ablation, a coating consisting of carbon nanoparticles about 10 nm in size is formed on the substrate placed at a distance of 4 cm from the target. It is assumed that such particles are formed as a result of the electrodispersion of carbon droplets detached from the target surface and charged to an unstable state in the laser plasma plume. Raman spectra of the coatings indicate that the carbon nanoparticles being formed have an amorphous structure.

  2. Modeling of Laser Vaporization and Plume Chemistry in a Boron Nitride Nanotube Production Rig

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gnoffo, Peter A.; Fay, Catharine C.

    2012-01-01

    Flow in a pressurized, vapor condensation (PVC) boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) production rig is modeled. A laser provides a thermal energy source to the tip of a boron ber bundle in a high pressure nitrogen chamber causing a plume of boron-rich gas to rise. The buoyancy driven flow is modeled as a mixture of thermally perfect gases (B, B2, N, N2, BN) in either thermochemical equilibrium or chemical nonequilibrium assuming steady-state melt and vaporization from a 1 mm radius spot at the axis of an axisymmetric chamber. The simulation is intended to define the macroscopic thermochemical environment from which boron-rich species, including nanotubes, condense out of the plume. Simulations indicate a high temperature environment (T > 4400K) for elevated pressures within 1 mm of the surface sufficient to dissociate molecular nitrogen and form BN at the base of the plume. Modifications to Program LAURA, a finite-volume based solver for hypersonic flows including coupled radiation and ablation, are described to enable this simulation. Simulations indicate that high pressure synthesis conditions enable formation of BN vapor in the plume that may serve to enhance formation of exceptionally long nanotubes in the PVC process.

  3. Temporal and spatial profiles of emission intensities in atmospheric pressure helium plasma jet driven by microsecond pulse: Experiment and simulation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wang, Ruixue; Zhang, Cheng; Yan, Ping

    2015-09-28

    A needle-circular electrode structure helium plasma jet driven by microsecond pulsed power is studied. Spatially resolved emission results show that the emission intensity of He(3{sup 3}S{sub 1}) line decreases monotonically along the axial direction, while those of N{sub 2}(C{sup 3}Π{sub u}), N{sub 2}{sup +}(B{sup 2}∑{sup +}{sub u}), and O(3p{sup 5}P) reach their maxima at 3 cm, 2.6 cm, and 1.4 cm, respectively. The plasma plume of the four species shows different characteristics: The N{sub 2} emission plume travels at a fast speed along the entire plasma jet; the N{sub 2}{sup +} emission plume is composed of a bright head and relatively weak tailmore » and travels a shorter distance than the N{sub 2} emission plume; the He emission plume travels at a slower speed for only a very short distance; propagation of the O emission plume is not observed. Results of calculation of radiation fluxes emitted by positive streamers propagating along helium plasma jets are presented. It is shown, in agreement with the results of the present experiment and with other available experimental data, that the intensities of radiation of N{sub 2}(C{sup 3}Π{sub u}) molecules and He(3{sup 3}S{sub 1}) atoms vary with time (along the plasma jet) quite differently. The factors resulting in this difference are discussed.« less

  4. Time-resolved investigations of the non-thermal ablation process of graphite induced by femtosecond laser pulses

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kalupka, C., E-mail: christian.kalupka@llt.rwth-aachen.de; Finger, J.; Reininghaus, M.

    2016-04-21

    We report on the in-situ analysis of the ablation dynamics of the, so-called, laser induced non-thermal ablation process of graphite. A highly oriented pyrolytic graphite is excited by femtosecond laser pulses with fluences below the classic thermal ablation threshold. The ablation dynamics are investigated by axial pump-probe reflection measurements, transversal pump-probe shadowgraphy, and time-resolved transversal emission photography. The combination of the applied analysis methods allows for a continuous and detailed time-resolved observation of the non-thermal ablation dynamics from several picoseconds up to 180 ns. Formation of large, μm-sized particles takes place within the first 3.5 ns after irradiation. The following propagation ofmore » ablation products and the shock wave front are tracked by transversal shadowgraphy up to 16 ns. The comparison of ablation dynamics of different fluences by emission photography reveals thermal ablation products even for non-thermal fluences.« less

  5. Thin films deposited by femtosecond pulsed laser ablation of tungsten carbide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    De Bonis, A.; Teghil, R.; Santagata, A.; Galasso, A.; Rau, J. V.

    2012-09-01

    Ultra-short Pulsed Laser Deposition has been applied to the production of thin films from a tungsten carbide target. The gaseous phase obtained by the laser ablation shows a very weak primary plume, in contrast with a very strong secondary one. The deposited films, investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and X-Ray Diffraction, present a mixture of WC and other phases with lower carbon content. All films are amorphous, independently from the substrate temperature. The characteristics of the deposits have been explained in terms of thermal evaporation and cooling rate of molten particles ejected from the target.

  6. Generation of nanoclusters by ultrafast laser ablation of Al: Molecular dynamics study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Miloshevsky, Alexander; Phillips, Mark C.; Harilal, Sivanandan S.

    The laser ablation of materials induced by an ultrashort femtosecond pulse is a complex phenomenon, which depends on both the material properties and the properties of the laser pulse. The unique capability of a combination of molecular dynamics (MD) and Momentum Scaling Model (MSM) methods is developed and applied to a large atomic system for studying the process of ultrafast laser-material interactions, behavior of matter in a highly non-equilibrium state, material disintegration, and formation of nanoparticles (NPs). Laser pulses with several fluences in the range from 500 J/m2 to 5000 J/m2 interacting with a large system of aluminum atoms aremore » simulated. The response of Al material to the laser energy deposition is investigated within the finite-size laser spot. It is found that the shape of the plasma plume is dynamically changing during an expansion process. At several tens of picoseconds it can be characterized as a long hollow ellipsoid surrounded by atomized and nano-clustered particles. The time evolution of NP clusters in the plume is investigated. The collisions between the single Al atoms and generated NPs and fragmentation of large NPs determine the fractions of different-size NP clusters in the plume. The MD-MSM simulations show that laser fluence greatly affects the size distribution of NPs, their polar angles, magnitude and direction vectors of NP velocities. These results and predictions are supported by the experimental data and previous MD simulations.« less

  7. Plume interference with space shuttle range safety signals

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Boynton, F. P.; Rajaseknar, P. S.

    1979-01-01

    The computational procedure for signal propagation in the presence of an exhaust plume is presented. Comparisons with well-known analytic diffraction solutions indicate that accuracy suffers when mesh spacing is inadequate to resolve the first unobstructed Fresnel zone at the plume edge. Revisions to the procedure to improve its accuracy without requiring very large arrays are discussed. Comparisons to field measurements during a shuttle solid rocket motor (SRM) test firing suggest that the plume is sharper edged than one would expect on the basis of time averaged electron density calculations. The effects, both of revisions to the computational procedure and of allowing for a sharper plume edge, are to raise the signal level near tail aspect. The attenuation levels then predicted are still high enough to be of concern near SRM burnout for northerly launches of the space shuttle.

  8. Spectroscopic studies of the exhaust plume of a quasi-steady MPD accelerator. Ph.D. Thesis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bruckner, A. P.

    1972-01-01

    Spectroscopic and photographic investigations are reported that reveal a complex azimuthal species structure in the exhaust plume of a quasi-steady argon MPD accelerator. Over a wide range of operating conditions the injected argon remains collimated in discrete jets which are azimuthally in line with the six propellant injector orifices. The regions between these argon jets, including the central core of the exhaust flow, are occupied by impurities such as carbon, hydrogen and oxygen ablated from the Plexiglas back plate of the arc chamber. The features of this plume structure are found to be dependent on the arc current and mass flow rate. It is found that nearly half the observed velocity is attained in an acceleration region well downstream of the region of significant electromagnetic interaction. Recombination calculations show that the ionization energy is essentially frozen.

  9. Imaging spectroscopy of polymer ablation plasmas for laser propulsion applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiao, Long; Truscott, Benjamin S.; Liu, Hao; Ashfold, Michael N. R.; Ma, Honghao

    2017-01-01

    A number of polymers have been proposed for use as propellants in space launch and thruster applications based on laser ablation, although few prior studies have either evaluated their performance at background pressures representative of the upper atmosphere or investigated interactions with ambient gases other than air. Here, we use spatially and temporally resolved optical emission spectroscopy to compare three polymers, poly(ethylene), poly(oxymethylene), and glycidyl azide polymer, ablated using a 532 nm, nanosecond pulsed laser under Ar and O2 at pressures below 1 Torr. Emission lines from neutrally and positively charged atoms are observed in each case, along with the recombination radiation at the interaction front between the plasma plume and the background gas. C2 radicals arise either as a direct fragmentation product or by a three-body recombination of C atoms, depending on the structure of the polymer backbone, and exhibit a rotational temperature of ≈5000 K. The Sedov-Taylor point blast model is used to infer the energy release relative to the incident laser energy, which for all polymers is greater in the presence of O2, as to be expected based on their negative oxygen balance. Under Ar, plume confinement is seen to enhance the self-reactivity of the ejecta from poly(oxymethylene) and glycidyl azide polymer, with maximum exothermicity close to 0.5 Torr. However, little advantage of the latter, widely considered one of the most promising energetic polymers, is apparent under the present conditions over the former, a common engineering plastic.

  10. Magneto-absorption effects in magnetic-field assisted laser ablation of silicon by UV nanosecond pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farrokhi, H.; Gruzdev, V.; Zheng, H. Y.; Rawat, R. S.; Zhou, W.

    2016-06-01

    A constant magnetic field can significantly improve the quality and speed of ablation by nanosecond laser pulses. These improvements are usually attributed to the confinement of laser-produced plasma by the magnetic field and specific propagation effects in the magnetized plasma. Here we report a strong influence of constant axial magnetic field on the ablation of silicon by 20-ns laser pulses at wavelength 355 nm, which results in an increase of ablation depth by a factor of 1.3 to 69 depending on laser parameters and magnitude of the magnetic field. The traditional plasma effects do not explain this result, and magneto-absorption of silicon is proposed as one of the major mechanisms of the significant enhancement of ablation.

  11. Combining Laser Ablation/Liquid Phase Collection Surface Sampling and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J

    This paper describes the coupling of ambient pressure transmission geometry laser ablation with a liquid phase sample collection method for surface sampling and ionization with subsequent mass spectral analysis. A commercially available autosampler was adapted to produce a liquid droplet at the end of the syringe injection needle while in close proximity to the surface to collect the sample plume produced by laser ablation. The sample collection was followed by either flow injection or a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of the extracted components and detection with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). To illustrate the analytical utility of thismore » coupling, thin films of a commercial ink sample containing rhodamine 6G and of mixed isobaric rhodamine B and 6G dyes on glass microscope slides were analyzed. The flow injection and HPLC/ESI-MS analysis revealed successful laser ablation, capture and, with HPLC, the separation of the two compounds. The ablated circular area was about 70 m in diameter for these experiments. The spatial sampling resolution afforded by the laser ablation, as well as the ability to use sample processing methods like HPLC between the sample collection and ionization steps, makes this combined surface sampling/ionization technique a highly versatile analytical tool.« less

  12. Plume radiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dirscherl, R.

    1993-06-01

    The electromagnetic radiation originating from the exhaust plume of tactical missile motors is of outstanding importance for military system designers. Both missile- and countermeasure engineer rely on the knowledge of plume radiation properties, be it for guidance/interference control or for passive detection of adversary missiles. To allow access to plume radiation properties, they are characterized with respect to the radiation producing mechanisms like afterburning, its chemical constituents, and reactions as well as particle radiation. A classification of plume spectral emissivity regions is given due to the constraints imposed by available sensor technology and atmospheric propagation windows. Additionally assessment methods are presented that allow a common and general grouping of rocket motor properties into various categories. These methods describe state of the art experimental evaluation techniques as well as calculation codes that are most commonly used by developers of NATO countries. Dominant aspects influencing plume radiation are discussed and a standardized test technique is proposed for the assessment of plume radiation properties that include prediction procedures. These recommendations on terminology and assessment methods should be common to all employers of plume radiation. Special emphasis is put on the omnipresent need for self-protection by the passive detection of plume radiation in the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectral band.

  13. Kinetics of ion and prompt electron emission from laser-produced plasma

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Farid, N.; Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion and Electron Beams, School of Physics and Optical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian; Harilal, S. S.

    2013-07-15

    We investigated ion emission dynamics of laser-produced plasma from several elements, comprised of metals and non-metals (C, Al, Si, Cu, Mo, Ta, W), under vacuum conditions using a Faraday cup. The estimated ion flux for various targets studied showed a decreasing tendency with increasing atomic mass. For metals, the ion flux is found to be a function of sublimation energy. A comparison of temporal ion profiles of various materials showed only high-Z elements exhibited multiple structures in the ion time of flight profile indicated by the observation of higher peak kinetic energies, which were absent for low-Z element targets. Themore » slower ions were seen regardless of the atomic number of target material propagated with a kinetic energy of 1–5 keV, while the fast ions observed in high-Z materials possessed significantly higher energies. A systematic study of plasma properties employing fast photography, time, and space resolved optical emission spectroscopy, and electron analysis showed that there existed different mechanisms for generating ions in laser ablation plumes. The origin of high kinetic energy ions is related to prompt electron emission from high-Z targets.« less

  14. Laser Plasma Microthruster Performance Evaluation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luke, James R.; Phipps, Claude R.

    2003-05-01

    The micro laser plasma thruster (μLPT) is a sub-kilogram thruster that is capable of meeting the Air Force requirements for the Attitude Control System on a 100-kg class small satellite. The μLPT uses one or more 4W diode lasers to ablate a solid fuel, producing a jet of hot gas or plasma which creates thrust with a high thrust/power ratio. A pre-prototype continuous thrust experiment has been constructed and tested. The continuous thrust experiment uses a 505 mm long continuous loop fuel tape, which consists of a black laser-absorbing fuel material on a transparent plastic substrate. When the laser is operated continuously, the exhaust plume and thrust vector are steered in the direction of the tape motion. Thrust steering can be avoided by pulsing the laser. A torsion pendulum thrust stand has been constructed and calibrated. Many fuel materials and substrates have been tested. Best performance from a non-energetic fuel material was obtained with black polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which produced an average of 70 μN thrust and coupling coefficient (Cm) of 190 μN/W. A proprietary energetic material was also tested, in which the laser initiates a non-propagating detonation. This material produced 500 μN of thrust.

  15. Monitoring the formation of inorganic fullerene-like MoS2 nanostructures by laser ablation in liquid environments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Compagnini, Giuseppe; Sinatra, Marco G.; Messina, Gabriele C.; Patanè, Giacomo; Scalese, Silvia; Puglisi, Orazio

    2012-05-01

    Laser ablation of solid targets in liquid media is emerging as a simple, clean and reproducible way to generate a large number of intriguing nanometric structures with peculiar properties. In this work we present some results on the formation of MoS2 fullerene-like nanoparticles (10-15 nm diameter) obtained by the ablation of crystalline targets in water. Such a top-down approach can be considered greener than standard sulphidization reactions and represents an intriguing single step procedure. The generation of the MoS2 nanostructures is in competition with that of oxide clusters and strongly depends on the oxidative environment created by the plasma plume. The size, shape and crystalline phase of the obtained nanoparticles are studied by microscopy while X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy is used to investigate the chemical state of produced nanostructures and to propose mechanisms for their growth.

  16. Characteristic properties of laser ablation of translucent targets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Platonov, V. V.; Kochurin, E. A.; Osipov, V. V.; Lisenkov, V. V.; Zubarev, N. M.

    2018-07-01

    This study reveals the characteristic features of the laser ablation of the solid Nd:Y2O3 targets, such as the dynamics of the laser plume, the crater depth, and the weight and size distribution of liquid melt droplets. The ablation was initiated by the ytterbium fiber laser radiation pulses with constant energy (0.67 J) and with different power densities. The dependence on the power density of such parameters as the injection time of drops, mass distribution of drops, crater depth, and productivity of synthesis of nonopowder was revealed. To explain the formation of deep craters a model was proposed, stating that the formation of liquid droplets is a consequence of the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability’s appearing and developing on the border between the liquid melt on the crater’s wall and the vapor flow from the crater. The increment of this instability and its characteristic size was determined.

  17. Mitigate the tent-induced perturbation in ignition capsules by supersonic radiation propagation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dai, Zhensheng; Gu, Jianfa; Zheng, Wudi

    2017-10-01

    In the inertial confinement fusion (ICF) scheme, to trap the alpha particle products of the D-T reaction, the capsules needs to be imploded and compressed with high symmetry In the laser indirect drive scheme, the capsules are held at the center of high-Z hohlraums by thin membranes (tents). However, the tents are recognized as one of the most important contributors to hot spot asymmetries, areal density perturbations and reduced performance. To improve the capsule implosion performance, various alternatives such as the micro-scale rods, a larger fill-tube and a low-density foam layer around the capsule have been presented. Our simulations show that the radiation propagates supersonically in the low-density foam layer and starts to ablate the capsule before the perturbations induced by the tents reach the ablating fronts. The tent induced perturbations are remarkably weakened when they are propagating in the blow-off plasma.

  18. Spectroscopic measurements of plasma plume induced during the laser deposition of the hydroxyapatite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jedyński, M.; Szymański, Z.; Mróz, W.; Prokopiuk, A.; Jelinek, M.; Kocourek, T.

    2004-03-01

    Plasma plume induced by ArF exeimer laser ablation of a Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 hydroxyapatite target during deposition process has been studied in different ambient conditions, i.e. in air or water vapour. ArF laser operated at the wavelength of 193 nm with the pulse energy of 300 mJ and 20 ns pulse duration. Spectroscopic measurements of the emission spectra of plasma plume have been made with the use of a fast gate, lens coupled micro-channel plate (MCP) image intensifier placed between a spectrograph and a 1254 silicon intensified target (SIT) detector connected to an optical multichannel analyser. The electron densities of 1022 ÷ 1023m-3 have been determined from the Stark broadening of Ca I lines as a function of the distance from the target. The expansion of the plasma plume has been studied using the time of flight method. The time-dependent radiation of the 422.673 nm Ca I and 393.366 nm Ca II lines has been, registered with the use of a monochromator and photomultiplier at various distances from the target. Velocities between 104 ÷ 103 m/s have been found. The velocity in air is several times higher than in the case with water vapour. The plasma plume dynamics is also different in both cases. In the presence of water vapour the spliting of the plasma plume appears.

  19. Understanding plume splitting of laser ablated plasma: A view from ion distribution dynamics

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Jian; Li, Xingwen; Wei, Wenfu

    2013-11-15

    Plume splitting in low-pressure ambient air was understood in view of ion distribution dynamics from the laser ablated Al plasma (1064 nm 0.57 J/mm{sup 2}) by combining fast photography and spatially resolved spectroscopy. In the beginning, the spectral lines were mainly from the Al III ion. Then, the Bragg peak in stopping power of the ambient gas to Al III could be the dominant reason for the enhanced emission from the fast moving part, and the recombination of Al III to Al I-II ions near the target surface was response to the radiations from the slow moving/stationary part. As themore » ambient gas pressure increased, stopping distances of the Al III decreased, and radiation from the air ions became pronounced. The laser shadowgraph image at 1100 Pa indicated that the shock wave front located between the fast moving and slow moving parts. Electron densities of the fast moving plasma, which peaked at the plasma front, were on the order of 10{sup 16} cm{sup −3}, and the electron temperatures were 2–3 eV.« less

  20. Signal enhancement in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy using fast square-pulse discharges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sobral, H.; Robledo-Martinez, A.

    2016-10-01

    A fast, high voltage square-shaped electrical pulse initiated by laser ablation was investigated as a means to enhance the analytical capabilities of laser Induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The electrical pulse is generated by the discharge of a charged coaxial cable into a matching impedance. The pulse duration and the stored charge are determined by the length of the cable. The ablation plasma was produced by hitting an aluminum target with a nanosecond 532-nm Nd:YAG laser beam under variable fluence 1.8-900 J cm- 2. An enhancement of up to one order of magnitude on the emission signal-to-noise ratio can be achieved with the spark discharge assisted laser ablation. Besides, this increment is larger for ionized species than for neutrals. LIBS signal is also increased with the discharge voltage with a tendency to saturate for high laser fluences. Electron density and temperature evolutions were determined from time delays of 100 ns after laser ablation plasma onset. Results suggest that the spark discharge mainly re-excites the laser produced plume.

  1. Retro Rocket Motor Self-Penetrating Scheme for Heat Shield Exhaust Ports

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Marrese-Reading, Colleen; St.Vaughn, Josh; Zell, Peter; Hamm, Ken; Corliss, Jim; Gayle, Steve; Pain, Rob; Rooney, Dan; Ramos, Amadi; Lewis, Doug; hide

    2009-01-01

    A preliminary scheme was developed for base-mounted solid-propellant retro rocket motors to self-penetrate the Orion Crew Module heat shield for configurations with the heat shield retained during landings on Earth. In this system the motors propel impactors into structural push plates, which in turn push through the heat shield ablator material. The push plates are sized such that the remaining port in the ablator material is large enough to provide adequate flow area for the motor exhaust plume. The push plate thickness is sized to assure structural integrity behind the ablative thermal protection material. The concept feasibility was demonstrated and the performance was characterized using a gas gun to launch representative impactors into heat shield targets with push plates. The tests were conducted using targets equipped with Fiberform(R) and PICA as the heat shield ablator material layer. The PICA penetration event times were estimated to be under 30 ms from the start of motor ignition. The mass of the system (not including motors) was estimated to be less than 2.3 kg (5 lbs) per motor. The configuration and demonstrations are discussed.

  2. Toward a comprehensive UV laser ablation modeling of multicomponent materials—A non-equilibrium investigation on titanium carbide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ait Oumeziane, Amina; Parisse, Jean-Denis

    2018-05-01

    Titanium carbide (TiC) coatings of great quality can be produced using nanosecond pulsed laser deposition (PLD). Because the deposition rate and the transfer of the target stoichiometry depend strongly on the laser-target/laser-plasma interaction as well as the composition of the laser induced plume, investigating the ruling fundamental mechanisms behind the material ablation and the plasma evolution in the background environment under PLD conditions is essential. This work, which extends previous investigations dedicated to the study of nanosecond laser ablation of pure target materials, is a first step toward a comprehensive non-equilibrium model of multicomponent ones. A laser-material interaction model coupled to a laser-plasma interaction one is presented. A UV 20 ns KrF (248 nm) laser pulse is considered. Ablation depths, plasma ignition thresholds, and shielding rates have been calculated for a wide range of laser beam fluences. A comparison of TiC behavior with pure titanium material under the same conditions is made. Plasma characteristics such as temperature and composition have been investigated. An overall correlation between the various results is presented.

  3. Ion dynamics of a laser produced aluminium plasma at different ambient pressures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sankar, Pranitha; Shashikala, H. D.; Philip, Reji

    2018-01-01

    Plasma is generated by pulsed laser ablation of an Aluminium target using 1064 nm, 7 ns Nd:YAG laser pulses. The spatial and temporal evolution of the whole plasma plume, as well as that of the ionic (Al2+) component present in the plume, are investigated using spectrally resolved time-gated imaging. The influence of ambient gas pressure on the expansion dynamics of Al2+ is studied in particular. In vacuum (10-5 Torr, 10-2 Torr) the whole plume expands adiabatically and diffuses into the ambient. For higher pressures in the range of 1-10 Torr plume expansion is in accordance with the shock wave model, while at 760 Torr the expansion follows the drag model. On the other hand, the expansion dynamics of the Al2+ component, measured by introducing a band pass optical filter in the detection system, fits to the shock wave model for the entire pressure range of 10-2 Torr to 760 Torr. The expansion velocities of the whole plume and the Al2+ component have been measured in vacuum. These dynamics studies are of potential importance for applications such as laser-driven plasma accelerators, ion acceleration, pulsed laser deposition, micromachining, laser-assisted mass spectrometry, ion implantation, and light source generation.

  4. Modification of narrow ablating capillaries under the influence of multiple femtosecond laser pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gubin, K. V.; Lotov, K. V.; Trunov, V. I.; Pestryakov, E. V.

    2016-09-01

    Powerful femtosecond laser pulses that propagate through narrow ablating capillaries cause modification of capillary walls, which is studied experimentally and theoretically. At low intensities, the laser-induced periodic surface structures and porous coating composed of sub-micron particles appear on the walls. At higher intensities, the surface is covered by deposited droplets of the size up to 10 μm. In both cases, the ablated material forms a solid plug that completely blocks the capillary after several hundreds or thousands of pulses. The suggested theoretical model indicates that the plug formation is a universal effect. It must take place in any narrow tube subject to ablation under the action of short laser pulses.

  5. On possible plume-guided seismic waves

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Julian, B.R.; Evans, J.R.

    2010-01-01

    Hypothetical thermal plumes in the Earth's mantle are expected to have low seismic-wave speeds and thus would support the propagation of guided elastic waves analogous to fault-zone guided seismic waves, fiber-optic waves, and acoustic waves in the oceanic SOund Fixing And Ranging channel. Plume-guided waves would be insensitive to geometric complexities in the wave guide, and their dispersion would make them distinctive on seismograms and would provide information about wave-guide structure that would complement seismic tomography. Detecting such waves would constitute strong evidence of a new kind for the existence of plumes. A cylindrical channel embedded in an infinite medium supports two classes of axially symmetric elastic-wave modes, torsional and longitudinal-radial. Torsional modes have rectilinear particle motion tangent to the cylinder surface. Longitudinal-radial modes have elliptical particle motion in planes that include the cylinder axis, with retrograde motion near the axis. The direction of elliptical particle motion reverses with distance from the axis: once for the fundamental mode, twice for the first overtone, and so on. Each mode exists only above its cut-off frequency, where the phase and group speeds equal the shear-wave speed in the infinite medium. At high frequencies, both speeds approach the shear-wave speed in the channel. All modes have minima in their group speeds, which produce Airy phases on seismograms. For shear wave-speed contrasts of a few percent, thought to be realistic for thermal plumes in the Earth, the largest signals are inversely dispersed and have dominant frequencies of about 0.1-1 Hz and durations of 15-30 sec. There are at least two possible sources of observable plume waves: (1) the intersection of mantle plumes with high-amplitude core-phase caustics in the deep mantle; and (2) ScS-like reflection at the core-mantle boundary of downward-propagating guided waves. The widespread recent deployment of broadband seismometers makes searching for these waves possible.

  6. Electrical Evolution of a Dust Plume from a Low Energy Lunar Impact: A Model Analog to LCROSS

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Farrell, W. M.; Stubbs, T. J.; Jackson, T. L.; Colaprete, A.; Heldmann, J. L.; Schultz, P. H.; Killen, R. M.; Delory, G. T.; Halekas, J. S.; Marshall, J. R.; hide

    2011-01-01

    A Monte Carlo test particle model was developed that simulates the charge evolution of micron and sub-micron sized dust grains ejected upon low-energy impact of a moderate-size object onto a lunar polar crater floor. Our analog is the LCROSS impact into Cabeus crater. Our primary objective is to model grain discharging as the plume propagates upwards from shadowed crater into sunlight.

  7. Visualising the procedures in the influence of water on the ablation of dental hard tissue with erbium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet and erbium, chromium:yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet laser pulses.

    PubMed

    Mir, Maziar; Gutknecht, Norbert; Poprawe, Reinhart; Vanweersch, Leon; Lampert, Friedrich

    2009-05-01

    The exact mechanism of the ablation of tooth hard tissue with most common wavelengths, which are 2,940 nm and 2,780 nm, is not yet clear. There are several different theories, but none of them has yet been established. Concepts and methods of looking at these mechanisms have been based on heat formation and transformation, and mathematical calculations evaluating the outcome of ablation, such as looking at the shape of cuts. This study provides a new concept, which is the monitoring of the direct interactions between laser light, water and enamel, with a high-speed camera. For this purpose, both the above-mentioned wavelengths were examined. Bovine anterior teeth were prepared as thin slices. Each imaged slice had a thickness close to that of the beam diameter so that the ablation effect could be shown in two dimensional pictures. The single images were extracted from the video-clips and then were animated. The following steps, explaining the ablation procedures during each pulse, were seen and reported: (1) low-output energy intensity in the first pulses that did not lead to an ablative effect; (2) bubble formation with higher output energy density; (3) the tooth surface during the pulse was covered with the plume of vapour (comparable with a cloud), and the margins of ablation on the tooth were not clear; (4) when the vapour bubble (cloud) was collapsing, an additional ablative process at the surface could be seen.

  8. Measuring the iron spectral opacity in solar conditions using a double ablation front scheme

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Colaitis, A.; Ducret, J. E.; Turck-Chieze, S

    We propose a new method to achieve hydrodynamic conditions relevant for the investigation of the radiation transport properties of the plasma at the base of the solar convection zone. The method is designed in the framework of opacity measurements with high-power lasers and exploits the temporal and spatial stability of hydrodynamic parameters in counter-propagating Double Ablation Front (DAF) structures.

  9. Is surgical plume developing during routine LEEPs contaminated with high-risk HPV? A pilot series of experiments.

    PubMed

    Neumann, Kay; Cavalar, Markus; Rody, Achim; Friemert, Luisa; Beyer, Daniel A

    2018-02-01

    Growing evidence shows a causal role of high-risk humane papillomavirus (HPV) infections in the development of head and neck cancer. A recent case report shows two patients suffering from tonsillar cancer without any risk factors apart from their work as gynecologists doing laser ablations and loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP). The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate whether surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs of HSIL of the cervix uteri might be contaminated with the DNA of high-risk HPV. The prospective pilot study is done at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the University of Lübeck, Germany. The primary outcome was defined as HPV subtype in resected cone and in surgical plume resulting from LEEPs of HSIL of the cervix uteri. Plume resulting from LEEPs was analyzed using a Whatman FTA Elute Indicating Card which was placed in the tube of an exhaust suction device used to remove the resulting aerosols. For detection of HPV and analysis of its subtype, the novel EUROArray HPV test was performed. Resected cones of LEEPs were evaluated separately for HPV subtypes. Four samples of surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs indicated contamination with high-risk HPV and showed the same HPV subtype as identified in the resected cones. Surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs for HSIL of the cervix uteri has the risk of contamination with high-risk HPV. Further investigations of infectiousness of surgical plume are necessary for evaluation of potential hazards to involved healthcare professionals.

  10. Crystallographic texture in pulsed laser deposited hydroxyapatite bioceramic coatings

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Hyunbin; Camata, Renato P.; Lee, Sukbin; Rohrer, Gregory S.; Rollett, Anthony D.; Vohra, Yogesh K.

    2008-01-01

    The orientation texture of pulsed laser deposited hydroxyapatite coatings was studied by X-ray diffraction techniques. Increasing the laser energy density of the KrF excimer laser used in the deposition process from 5 to 7 J/cm2 increases the tendency for the c-axes of the hydroxyapatite grains to be aligned perpendicular to the substrate. This preferred orientation is most pronounced when the incidence direction of the plume is normal to the substrate. Orientation texture of the hydroxyapatite grains in the coatings is associated with the highly directional and energetic nature of the ablation plume. Anisotropic stresses, transport of hydroxyl groups and dehydroxylation effects during deposition all seem to play important roles in the texture development. PMID:18563207

  11. Very low pressure high power impulse triggered magnetron sputtering

    DOEpatents

    Anders, Andre; Andersson, Joakim

    2013-10-29

    A method and apparatus are described for very low pressure high powered magnetron sputtering of a coating onto a substrate. By the method of this invention, both substrate and coating target material are placed into an evacuable chamber, and the chamber pumped to vacuum. Thereafter a series of high impulse voltage pulses are applied to the target. Nearly simultaneously with each pulse, in one embodiment, a small cathodic arc source of the same material as the target is pulsed, triggering a plasma plume proximate to the surface of the target to thereby initiate the magnetron sputtering process. In another embodiment the plasma plume is generated using a pulsed laser aimed to strike an ablation target material positioned near the magnetron target surface.

  12. Modification of modulated plasma plumes for the quasi-phase-matching of high-order harmonics in different spectral ranges

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ganeev, R. A., E-mail: rashid-ganeev@mail.ru; Ophthalmology and Advanced Laser Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495; Boltaev, G. S.

    We demonstrate the technique allowing the fine tuning of the distance between the laser-produced plasma plumes on the surfaces of different materials, as well as the variation of the sizes of these plumes. The modification of plasma formations is based on the tilting of the multi-slit mask placed between the heating laser beam and target surface, as well as the positioning of this mask in the telescope placed on the path of heating radiation. The modulated plasma plumes with the sizes of single plume ranging between 0.1 and 1 mm were produced on the manganese and silver targets. Modification of themore » geometrical parameters of plasma plumes proved to be useful for the fine tuning of the quasi-phase-matched high-order harmonics generated in such structures during propagation of the ultrashort laser pulses. We show the enhancement of some groups of harmonics along the plateau range and the tuning of maximally enhanced harmonic by variable modulation of the plasma.« less

  13. Experimental studies of the effect target geometry on the evolution of laser produced plasma plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beatty, Cuyler; Anderson, Austin; Iratcabal, Jeremy; Dutra, Eric; Covington, Aaron

    2016-10-01

    The expansion of the laser plumes was shown to be dependent on the initial target geometry. A 16 channel framing camera was used to record the plume shape and propagation speeds were determined from analysis of the images. Plastic targets were manufactured using different methods including 3D printing, CNC machining and vacuum casting. Preliminary target designs were made using a 3D printer and ABS plastic material. These targets were then tested using a 3 J laser with a 5 ns duration pulse. Targets with a deep conical depression were shown to produce highly collimated plumes when compared to flat top targets. Preliminary results of these experiments will be discussed along with planned future experiments that will use the indented targets with a 30 J laser with a 0.8 ns duration pulse in preparation for pinched laser plume experiments at the Nevada Terawatt Facility. Other polymers that are readily available in a deuterated form will also be explored as part of an effort to develop a cost effective plasma plume target for follow on neutron production experiments. Dr. Austin Anderson.

  14. Isopycnal deepening of an under-ice river plume in coastal waters: Field observations and modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, S. Samuel; Ingram, R. Grant

    2007-07-01

    The Great Whale River, located on the southeast coast of Hudson Bay in Canada, forms a large river plume under complete landfast ice during early spring. Short-term fluctuations of plume depth have motivated the present numerical study of an under-ice river plume subject to tidal motion and friction. We introduce a simple two-layer model for predicting the vertical penetration of the under-ice river plume as it propagates over a deepening topography. The topography is idealized but representative. Friction on the bottom surface of the ice cover, on the seabed, and at the plume interface is parameterized using the quadratic friction law. The extent of the vertical penetration is controlled by dimensionless parameters related to tidal motion and river outflow. Model predictions are shown to compare favorably with under-ice plume measurements from the river mouth. This study illustrates that isopycnal deepening occurs when the ice-cover vertical motion creates a reduced flow cross-section during the ebbing tide. This results in supercritical flow and triggers the downward plume penetration in the offshore. For a given river discharge, the freshwater source over a tidal cycle is unsteady in terms of discharge velocity because of the variation in the effective cross-sectional area at the river mouth, through which freshwater flows.

  15. Third harmonic generation in air ambient and laser ablated carbon plasma

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Singh, Ravi Pratap, E-mail: ravips@iitk.ac.in; Gupta, Shyam L.; Thareja, Raj K.

    2015-12-15

    We report the third harmonic generation of a nanosecond laser pulse (1.06 μm) in air ambient and in the presence of nanoparticles from laser ablated carbon plasma. Significant decrease in the threshold of third harmonic generation and multi-fold increment in the intensity of generated third harmonic is observed in presence of carbon plasma. The third harmonic in air is due to the quasi-resonant four photon process involving vibrationally excited states of molecular ion of nitrogen due to electron impact ionization and laser pulse. Following optical emission spectroscopic observations we conclude that the presence of C{sub 2} and CN in the ablatedmore » plume play a vital role in the observed third harmonic signals.« less

  16. Laser ablation of single-crystalline silicon by radiation of pulsed frequency-selective fiber laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Veiko, V. P.; Skvortsov, A. M.; Huynh, C. T.; Petrov, A. A.

    2015-07-01

    We have studied the process of destruction of the surface of a single-crystalline silicon wafer scanned by the beam of a pulsed ytterbium-doped fiber laser radiation with a wavelength of λ = 1062 nm. It is established that the laser ablation can proceed without melting of silicon and the formation of a plasma plume. Under certain parameters of the process (radiation power, beam scan velocity, and beam overlap density), pronounced oxidation of silicon microparticles with the formation of a characteristic loose layer of fine powdered silicon dioxide has been observed for the first time. The range of lasing and beam scanning regimes in which the growth of SiO2 layer takes place is determined.

  17. Radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients with symptomatic atrial flutter/tachycardia after orthotopic heart transplantation.

    PubMed

    Li, Yi-gang; Grönefeld, Gerian; Israel, Carsten; Lu, Shang-biao; Wang, Qun-shan; Hohnloser, Stefan H

    2006-12-20

    Atrial tachycardia or flutter is common in patients after orthotopic heart transplantation. Radiofrequency catheter ablation to treat this arrhythmia has not been well defined in this setting. This study was conducted to assess the incidence of various symptomatic atrial arrhythmias and the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency catheter ablation in these patients. Electrophysiological study and catheter ablation were performed in patients with symptomatic tachyarrhythmia. One Halo catheter with 20 poles was positioned around the tricuspid annulus of the donor right atrium, or positioned around the surgical anastomosis when it is necessary. Three quadripolar electrode catheters were inserted via the right or left femoral vein and positioned in the recipient atrium, the bundle of His position, the coronary sinus. Programmed atrial stimulation and burst pacing were performed to prove electrical conduction between the recipient and the donor atria and to induce atrial arrhythmias. Out of 55 consecutive heart transplantation patients, 6 males [(58 +/- 12) years] developed symptomatic tachycardias at a mean of (5 +/- 4) years after heart transplantation. Electrical propagation through the suture line between the recipient and the donor atrium was demonstrated during atrial flutter or during recipient atrium and donor atrium pacing in 2 patients. By mapping around the suture line, the earliest fragmented electrogram of donor atrium was assessed. This electrical connection was successfully ablated in the anterior lateral atrium in both patients. There was no electrical propagation through the suture line in the other 4 patients. Two had typical atrial flutter in the donor atrium which was successfully ablated by completing a linear ablation between the tricuspid annulus and the inferior vena cava. Two patients had atrial tachycardia which was ablated in the anterior septal and lateral donor atrium. There were no procedure-related complications. Patients were free of recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias after a follow-up of (8 +/- 7) months. Four electrophysiological mechanisms have been found to contribute to the occurrence of symptomatic supraventricular arrhythmias following heart transplantation. Radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients with atrial flutter/tachycardia is feasible and safe after heart transplantation.

  18. Istopically Defined Source Reservoirs of Primitive Magmas in the East African Rift.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rooney, T. O.; Furman, T.; Hanan, B.

    2005-12-01

    Extension within the East African Rift is a function of the interaction between plume-driven uplift and far-field stresses associated with plate tectonic processes. Geochemical and isotopic investigation of primitive basalts from the Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) reveals systematic spatial variations in the contributions from distinct and identifiable source reservoirs that, in turn help identify the mechanisms by which along-axis rifting has progressed. The Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic characteristics of MER basalts can be described by a three-component mixing model involving the long-lived Afar plume, a depleted mantle component similar to the source region for Gulf of Aden MORB from east of 48° E and a reservoir that is likely lithospheric (sub-continental mantle lithosphere, magmatic underplate or lower crust). Quaternary basalts in the central MER exhibit a systematic decrease in plume influence southward from 9.5° N to 8° N, i.e., away from the modern surface expression of the Afar plume in Djibouti and Erta 'Ale. The composition of the Afar plume component is comparable to the "C" mantle reservoir. This southward decrease in plume influence is coupled with an increase in the influence of the lithospheric and depleted mantle components. Linear arrays observed within Pb-Pb isotopic space at each eruptive center require distinctive ratio of lithospheric + depleted mantle components mixing with variable amounts of the "C"-like plume component. This isotopic evidence suggests the depleted mantle and lithosphere mixed prior to the generation of the recent magmas. To the south, the Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic compositions of Turkana (Kenya) rift basalts record a mix of a similar "C"-like plume component and a fourth HIMU-like source component. Low 3He/4He values observed in the HIMU-dominated lavas from Turkana contrast with the higher ratios found in basalts associated with the "C"-like Afar plume. Further analysis of "C"-HIMU lavas at Turkana is required to fully constrain the He isotopic signatures. Thus, along-axis patterns in Quaternary EARS magmatism are compatible with two "C"-like plumes with contributions from the upper mantle and chemically distinct lithospheric components. Alternatively, a single "C"-like plume can account for these relationships. In the single plume scenario, the HIMU source component present in the 30 Ma Turkana lavas may represent melting of metasomatised lithosphere, derived from the accretion of island-arc-backarc basins during Pan-African events (e.g. Schilling et al., 1992). The recent plume-dominated activity in Turkana and Afar are separated by a region characterized by waning plume influence and a greater contribution from the depleted mantle. This intermediate zone, which is located in the south-central MER represents the modern site of contact between the northward propagating Kenya / Turkana Rift and the southward propagating Afar Rift zone.

  19. On the elemental analysis of different cigarette brands using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser-ablation time of flight mass spectrometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmed, Nasar; Umar, Zeshan A.; Ahmed, Rizwan; Aslam Baig, M.

    2017-10-01

    We present qualitative and quantitative analysis of the trace elements present in different brands of tobacco available in Pakistan using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser ablation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer (LA-TOFMS). The compositional analysis using the calibration free LIBS technique is based on the observed emission spectra of the laser produced plasma plume whereas the elemental composition analysis using LA-TOFMS is based on the mass spectra of the ions produced by laser ablation. The optical emission spectra of these samples contain spectral lines of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, silicon, strontium, barium, lithium and aluminum with varying intensities. The corresponding mass spectra of the elements were detected in LA-TOF-MS with their composition concentration. The analysis of different brands of cigarettes demonstrates that LIBS coupled with a LA-TOF-MS is a powerful technique for the elemental analysis of the trace elements in any solid sample.

  20. Impact of oxygen chemistry on the emission and fluorescence spectroscopy of laser ablation plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hartig, K. C.; Brumfield, B. E.; Phillips, M. C.; Harilal, S. S.

    2017-09-01

    Oxygen present in the ambient gas medium may affect both laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) emission through a reduction of emission intensity and persistence. In this study, an evaluation is made on the role of oxygen in the ambient environment under atmospheric pressure conditions in LIBS and laser ablation (LA)-LIF emission. To generate plasmas, 1064 nm, 10 ns pulses were focused on an aluminum alloy sample. LIF was performed by frequency scanning a CW laser over the 396.15 nm (3s24s 2S1/2 → 3s23p 2P°3/2) Al I transition. Time-resolved emission and fluorescence signals were recorded to evaluate the variation in emission intensity caused by the presence of oxygen. The oxygen partial pressure (po) in the atmospheric pressure environment using N2 as the makeup gas was varied from 0 to 400 Torr O2. 2D-fluorescence spectroscopy images were obtained for various oxygen concentrations for simultaneous evaluation of the emission and excitation spectral features. Results showed that the presence of oxygen in the ambient environment reduces the persistence of the LIBS and LIF emission through an oxidation process that depletes the density of atomic species within the resulting laser-produced plasma (LPP) plume.

  1. Synthesis of crystalline and amorphous, particle-agglomerated 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides by femtosecond laser and the prediction of these particle sizes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sivayoganathan, Mugunthan; Tan, Bo; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan

    2012-11-01

    We report a single step technique of synthesizing particle-agglomerated, amorphous 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides on powder-fused aluminosilicate ceramic plates and a simple novel method of wafer-foil ablation to fabricate crystalline nanostructures of Al and Si oxides at ambient conditions. We also propose a particle size prediction mechanism to regulate the size of vapor-condensed agglomerated nanoparticles in these structures. Size characterization studies performed on the agglomerated nanoparticles of fabricated 3-D structures showed that the size distributions vary with the fluence-to-threshold ratio. The variation in laser parameters leads to varying plume temperature, pressure, amount of supersaturation, nucleation rate, and the growth rate of particles in the plume. The novel wafer-foil ablation technique could promote the possibilities of fabricating oxide nanostructures with varying Al/Si ratio, and the crystallinity of these structures enhances possible applications. The fabricated nanostructures of Al and Si oxides could have great potentials to be used in the fabrication of low power-consuming complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor circuits and in Mn catalysts to enhance the efficiency of oxidation on ethylbenzene to acetophenone in the super-critical carbon dioxide.

  2. Synthesis of crystalline and amorphous, particle-agglomerated 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides by femtosecond laser and the prediction of these particle sizes.

    PubMed

    Sivayoganathan, Mugunthan; Tan, Bo; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan

    2012-11-09

    We report a single step technique of synthesizing particle-agglomerated, amorphous 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides on powder-fused aluminosilicate ceramic plates and a simple novel method of wafer-foil ablation to fabricate crystalline nanostructures of Al and Si oxides at ambient conditions. We also propose a particle size prediction mechanism to regulate the size of vapor-condensed agglomerated nanoparticles in these structures. Size characterization studies performed on the agglomerated nanoparticles of fabricated 3-D structures showed that the size distributions vary with the fluence-to-threshold ratio. The variation in laser parameters leads to varying plume temperature, pressure, amount of supersaturation, nucleation rate, and the growth rate of particles in the plume. The novel wafer-foil ablation technique could promote the possibilities of fabricating oxide nanostructures with varying Al/Si ratio, and the crystallinity of these structures enhances possible applications. The fabricated nanostructures of Al and Si oxides could have great potentials to be used in the fabrication of low power-consuming complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor circuits and in Mn catalysts to enhance the efficiency of oxidation on ethylbenzene to acetophenone in the super-critical carbon dioxide.

  3. Synthesis of crystalline and amorphous, particle-agglomerated 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides by femtosecond laser and the prediction of these particle sizes

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    We report a single step technique of synthesizing particle-agglomerated, amorphous 3-D nanostructures of Al and Si oxides on powder-fused aluminosilicate ceramic plates and a simple novel method of wafer-foil ablation to fabricate crystalline nanostructures of Al and Si oxides at ambient conditions. We also propose a particle size prediction mechanism to regulate the size of vapor-condensed agglomerated nanoparticles in these structures. Size characterization studies performed on the agglomerated nanoparticles of fabricated 3-D structures showed that the size distributions vary with the fluence-to-threshold ratio. The variation in laser parameters leads to varying plume temperature, pressure, amount of supersaturation, nucleation rate, and the growth rate of particles in the plume. The novel wafer-foil ablation technique could promote the possibilities of fabricating oxide nanostructures with varying Al/Si ratio, and the crystallinity of these structures enhances possible applications. The fabricated nanostructures of Al and Si oxides could have great potentials to be used in the fabrication of low power-consuming complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor circuits and in Mn catalysts to enhance the efficiency of oxidation on ethylbenzene to acetophenone in the super-critical carbon dioxide. PMID:23140103

  4. Generation of shock waves and formation of craters in a solid material irradiated by a short laser pulse

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gus'kov, Sergei Yu; Borodziuk, S; Kasperczuk, A

    2004-11-30

    The results of investigations are presented which are concerned with laser radiation absorption in a target, the plasma state of its ablated material, the energy transfer to the solid target material, the characteristics of the shock wave and craters on the target surface. The investigation involved irradiation of a planar target by a subnanosecond plasma-producing laser pulse. The experiments were carried out with massive aluminium targets using the PALS iodine laser, whose pulse duration (0.4 ns) was much shorter than the shock wave attenuation and on-target crater formation times (50-200 ns). The investigations were conducted for a laser radiation energymore » of 100 J at two wavelengths of 0.438 and 1.315 {mu}m. For a given pulse energy, the irradiation intensity was varied in a broad range (10{sup 13}-10{sup 16} W cm{sup -2}) by varying the radius of the laser beam. The efficiency of laser radiation-to-shock energy transfer was determined as a function of the intensity and wavelength of laser radiation; also determined were the characteristics of the plasma plume and the shock wave propagating in the solid target, including the experimental conditions under which two-dimensional effects are highly significant. (invited paper)« less

  5. New Stratospheric Dust Belt Due to the Chelyabinsk Bolide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gorkavyi, Nick; Rault, D. F.; Newman, P. A.; da Silva, A. M.; Dudorov, A. E.

    2013-01-01

    The Ozone Mapping Profiler Suite (OMPS) Limb Profiler (LP) on the recently launched NASA/NOAA NPP/ Suomi satellite detected aerosol excess in the midstratosphere (25-45 km altitude) between 50degN and 70degN latitudes. OMPS/LP observations trace this aerosol plume to the meteor that struck near Chelyabinsk, Russia on 15 February 2013. This new dust layer, located above the Junge aerosol layer, has persisted over at least a 3 month period. Material collected on the ground following the bolide explosion showed that the meteor was mostly composed of olivine and pyroxenes. Simulations using Lagrangian and Eulerian atmospheric models trace the plume back to Chelyabinsk and confirm that the plume altitude was at altitudes between 25 and 45 km. The models also confirm the plume circumpolar longitudinal spreading observed by OMPS/LP, with propagation speeds up to 85 m/s.

  6. Laser induced bubbles inside liquids: Transient optical properties and effects on a beam propagation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lazic, V.; Jovicevic, S.; Carpanese, M.

    2012-07-01

    Light transmission through a laser formed bubble (LFB) following ablation of a metallic target inside water was studied. During the early expansion and late collapsing phases, the refraction index nb of the hot high-pressure vapor bubble is higher than 1.23 and close to that of the surrounding liquid. The cavity growth lowers nb down to 1.00 and causes strong defocusing of the incident laser beam with consequent enlargement of the ablation crater diameter, here overcoming factor two. Inhomogeneous water vapor clustering inside the cool expanded bubble further perturbs the light transmission and induces irregular ablation by the successive laser pulse.

  7. Moth-inspired navigation algorithm in a turbulent odor plume from a pulsating source.

    PubMed

    Liberzon, Alexander; Harrington, Kyra; Daniel, Nimrod; Gurka, Roi; Harari, Ally; Zilman, Gregory

    2018-01-01

    Some female moths attract male moths by emitting series of pulses of pheromone filaments propagating downwind. The turbulent nature of the wind creates a complex flow environment, and causes the filaments to propagate in the form of patches with varying concentration distributions. Inspired by moth navigation capabilities, we propose a navigation strategy that enables a flier to locate an upwind pulsating odor source in a windy environment using a single threshold-based detection sensor. This optomotor anemotaxis strategy is constructed based on the physical properties of the turbulent flow carrying discrete puffs of odor and does not involve learning, memory, complex decision making or statistical methods. We suggest that in turbulent plumes from a pulsating point source, an instantaneously measurable quantity referred as a "puff crossing time", improves the success rate as compared to the navigation strategies based on temporally regular zigzags due to intermittent contact, or an "internal counter", that do not use this information. Using computer simulations of fliers navigating in turbulent plumes of the pulsating point source for varying flow parameters such as turbulent intensities, plume meandering and wind gusts, we obtained statistics of navigation paths towards the pheromone sources. We quantified the probability of a successful navigation as well as the flight parameters such as the time spent searching and the total flight time, with respect to different turbulent intensities, meandering or gusts. The concepts learned using this model may help to design odor-based navigation of miniature airborne autonomous vehicles.

  8. Implementation of microwave transmissions for rocket exhaust plume diagnostics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coutu, Nicholas George

    Rocket-launched vehicles produce a trail of exhaust that contains ions, free electrons, and soot. The exhaust plume increases the effective conductor length of the rocket. A conductor in the presence of an electric field (e.g. near the electric charge stored within a cloud) can channel an electric discharge. The electrical conductivity of the exhaust plume is related to its concentration of free electrons. The risk of a lightning strike in-flight is a function of both the conductivity of the body and its effective length. This paper presents an approach that relates the electron number density of the exhaust plume to its propagation constant. Estimated values of the collision frequency and electron number density generated from a numerical simulation of a rocket plume are used to guide the design of the experimental apparatus. Test par meters are identified for the apparatus designed to transmit a signal sweep form 4 GHz to 7 GHz through the exhaust plume of a J-class solid rocket motor. Measurements of the scattering parameters imply that the transmission does not penetrate the plume, but instead diffracts around it. The electron density 20 cm downstream from the nozzle exit is estimated to be between 2.7x1014 m--3 and 5.6x10 15 m--3.

  9. Single laser based pump-probe technique to study plasma shielding during nanosecond laser ablation of copper thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nammi, Srinagalakshmi; Vasa, Nilesh J.; Gurusamy, Balaganesan; Mathur, Anil C.

    2017-09-01

    A plasma shielding phenomenon and its influence on micromachining is studied experimentally and theoretically for laser wavelengths of 355 nm, 532 nm and 1064 nm. A time resolved pump-probe technique is proposed and demonstrated by splitting a single nanosecond Nd3+:YAG laser into an ablation laser (pump laser) and a probe laser to understand the influence of plasma shielding on laser ablation of copper (Cu) clad on polyimide thin films. The proposed nanosecond pump-probe technique allows simultaneous measurement of the absorption characteristics of plasma produced during Cu film ablation by the pump laser. Experimental measurements of the probe intensity distinctly show that the absorption by the ablated plume increases with increase in the pump intensity, as a result of plasma shielding. Theoretical estimation of the intensity of the transmitted pump beam based on the thermo-temporal modeling is in qualitative agreement with the pump-probe based experimental measurements. The theoretical estimate of the depth attained for a single pulse with high pump intensity value on a Cu thin film is limited by the plasma shielding of the incident laser beam, similar to that observed experimentally. Further, the depth of micro-channels produced shows a similar trend for all three wavelengths, however, the channel depth achieved is lesser at the wavelength of 1064 nm.

  10. Can Plume-Forming Asteroid Airbursts Generate Meteotsunami in Deep Water?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boslough, M.

    2015-12-01

    Hydrocode simulations suggest that the 1908 Tunguska explosion was a plume-forming airburst analogous to those caused by Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 (SL9) collisions with Jupiter in 1994. A noctilucent cloud that appeared over Europe following the Tunguska event is similar to post-impact features on Jupiter, consistent with a collapsed plume containing condensation from the vaporized asteroid. Previous workers treated Tunguska as a point explosion and used seismic records, barograms, and extent of fallen trees to determine explosive yield. Estimates were based on scaling laws derived from nuclear weapons data, neglecting directionality, mass, and momentum of the asteroid. This point-source assumption, with other simplifications, led to a significant overestimate. Tunguska seismic data were consistent with ground motion from a vertical point impulse of 7×1018dyn sec caused by the downward blast wave of a 12.5-megaton nuclear explosion at an altitude of 8.5 km for an effective momentum multiplication factor (β) of ~80. However, simulations of a 3-megaton collisional airburst reveal that the upward-directed momentum contained in a ballistic plume can reach this level within the first minute after the explosion (β≈300). The reaction impulse from such an airburst is therefore similar to a much larger non-plume-forming nuclear explosion. Momentum is coupled through the atmosphere to the surface, generating disproportionately large seismic signatures. This result suggests that coupling from an over-water plume-forming airburst could be a more efficient tsunami source mechanism than a collapsing impact cavity or direct air blast because the characteristic time of the plume is closer to that of a long-period wave in deep water. As the plume accelerates upward, it creates a slowly-rising and sustained overpressure with a ramp wave that propagates outward at the speed of sound, generating a tsunami in deep ocean by the same mechanism that yields slower meteotsunami in shallow basins. This hypothesis is consistent with the observation of prominent internal waves observed propagating radially outward from several SL9 impacts, even though the waves were not in Proudman resonance. Because of slow compression, the SL9 waves grew with a Froude number of ~1.6, the same as that of the sound speed in air over ~4.6-km-deep water.

  11. A model of early formation of uranium molecular oxides in laser-ablated plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Finko, Mikhail S.; Curreli, Davide; Weisz, David G.; Crowhurst, Jonathan C.; Rose, Timothy P.; Koroglu, Batikan; Radousky, Harry B.; Armstrong, Michael R.

    2017-12-01

    In this work, we present a newly constructed U x O y reaction mechanism that consists of 30 reaction channels (21 of which are reversible channels) for 11 uranium molecular species (including ions). Both the selection of reaction channels and calculation of corresponding rate coefficients is accomplished via a comprehensive literature review and application of basic reaction rate theory. The reaction mechanism is supplemented by a detailed description of oxygen plasma chemistry (19 species and 142 reaction channels) and is used to model an atmospheric laser ablated uranium plume via a 0D (global) model. The global model is used to analyze the evolution of key uranium molecular species predicted by the reaction mechanism, and the initial stage of formation of uranium oxide species.

  12. Electronic State Distributions of YBa2Cu3O7-x Laser Ablated Plumes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-09-01

    deposited on buffered metal substrates using gas phase techniques such as pulsed laser deposition (PLD) or metal -oxide chem- ical vapor deposition...along the desired current direction. This grain orientation has been successfully achieved by depositing YBCO on a metal tape substrate coated with a...Reeves, K. Lenseth, and V. Selvamanickam. “Texture Development and Superconducting Properties of YBCO Thick Films Deposited on Buffered Metal Substrates

  13. Inverse modelling for real-time estimation of radiological consequences in the early stage of an accidental radioactivity release.

    PubMed

    Pecha, Petr; Šmídl, Václav

    2016-11-01

    A stepwise sequential assimilation algorithm is proposed based on an optimisation approach for recursive parameter estimation and tracking of radioactive plume propagation in the early stage of a radiation accident. Predictions of the radiological situation in each time step of the plume propagation are driven by an existing short-term meteorological forecast and the assimilation procedure manipulates the model parameters to match the observations incoming concurrently from the terrain. Mathematically, the task is a typical ill-posed inverse problem of estimating the parameters of the release. The proposed method is designated as a stepwise re-estimation of the source term release dynamics and an improvement of several input model parameters. It results in a more precise determination of the adversely affected areas in the terrain. The nonlinear least-squares regression methodology is applied for estimation of the unknowns. The fast and adequately accurate segmented Gaussian plume model (SGPM) is used in the first stage of direct (forward) modelling. The subsequent inverse procedure infers (re-estimates) the values of important model parameters from the actual observations. Accuracy and sensitivity of the proposed method for real-time forecasting of the accident propagation is studied. First, a twin experiment generating noiseless simulated "artificial" observations is studied to verify the minimisation algorithm. Second, the impact of the measurement noise on the re-estimated source release rate is examined. In addition, the presented method can be used as a proposal for more advanced statistical techniques using, e.g., importance sampling. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Propagation of ion acoustic wave energy in the plume of a high-current LaB6 hollow cathode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jorns, Benjamin A.; Dodson, Christoper; Goebel, Dan M.; Wirz, Richard

    2017-08-01

    A frequency-averaged quasilinear model is derived and experimentally validated for the evolution of ion acoustic turbulence (IAT) along the centerline of a 100-A class, LaB6 hollow cathode. Probe-based diagnostics and a laser induced fluorescence system are employed to measure the properties of both the turbulence and the background plasma parameters as they vary spatially in the cathode plume. It is shown that for the three discharge currents investigated, 100 A, 130 A, and 160 A, the spatial growth of the total energy density of the IAT in the near field of the cathode plume is exponential and agrees quantitatively with the predicted growth rates from the quasilinear formulation. However, in the downstream region of the cathode plume, the growth of IAT energy saturates at a level that is commensurate with the Sagdeev limit. The experimental validation of the quasilinear model for IAT growth and its limitations are discussed in the context of numerical efforts to describe self-consistently the plasma processes in the hollow cathode plume.

  15. Computational models for the analysis of three-dimensional internal and exhaust plume flowfields

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dash, S. M.; Delguidice, P. D.

    1977-01-01

    This paper describes computational procedures developed for the analysis of three-dimensional supersonic ducted flows and multinozzle exhaust plume flowfields. The models/codes embodying these procedures cater to a broad spectrum of geometric situations via the use of multiple reference plane grid networks in several coordinate systems. Shock capturing techniques are employed to trace the propagation and interaction of multiple shock surfaces while the plume interface, separating the exhaust and external flows, and the plume external shock are discretely analyzed. The computational grid within the reference planes follows the trace of streamlines to facilitate the incorporation of finite-rate chemistry and viscous computational capabilities. Exhaust gas properties consist of combustion products in chemical equilibrium. The computational accuracy of the models/codes is assessed via comparisons with exact solutions, results of other codes and experimental data. Results are presented for the flows in two-dimensional convergent and divergent ducts, expansive and compressive corner flows, flow in a rectangular nozzle and the plume flowfields for exhausts issuing out of single and multiple rectangular nozzles.

  16. Toxic Alexandrium blooms in the western Gulf of Maine: The plume advection hypothesis revisited

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Anderson, D.M.; Keafer, B.A.; Geyer, W.R.; Signell, R.P.; Loder, T.C.

    2005-01-01

    The plume advection hypothesis links blooms of the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium fundyense in the western Gulf of Maine (GOM) to a buoyant plume derived from river outflows. This hypothesis was examined with cruise and moored-instrument observations in 1993 when levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins were high, and in 1994 when toxicity was low. A coupled physical-biological model simulated hydrography and A. fundyense distributions. Initial A. fundyense populations were restricted to low-salinity nearshore waters near Casco Bay, but also occurred in higher salinity waters along the plume boundary. This suggests two sources of cells - those from shallow-water cyst populations and those transported to shore from offshore blooms in the eastern segment of the Maine coastal current (EMCC). Observations confirm the role of the plume in A. fundyense transport and growth. Downwelling-favorable winds in 1993 transported the plume and its cells rapidly alongshore, enhancing toxicity and propagating PSP to the south. In 1994, sustained upwelling moved the plume offshore, resulting in low toxicity in intertidal shellfish. A. fundyense blooms were likely nutrient limited, leading to low growth rates and moderate cell abundances. These observations and mechanisms were reproduced by coupled physical-biological model simulations. The plume advection hypothesis provides a viable explanation for outbreaks of PSP in the western GOM, but should be refined to include two sources for cells that populate the plume and two major pathways for transport: one within the low-salinity plume and another where A. fundyense cells originating in the EMCC are transported along the outer boundary of the plume front with the western segment of the Maine coastal current.

  17. Plasma plume effects on the conductivity of amorphous-LaAlO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} interfaces grown by pulsed laser deposition in O{sub 2} and Ar

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sambri, A.; Amoruso, S.; Bruzzese, R.

    2012-06-04

    Amorphous-LaAlO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} interfaces exhibit metallic conductivity similar to those found for the extensively studied crystalline-LaAlO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} interfaces. Here, we investigate the conductivity of the amorphous-LaAlO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3} interfaces grown in different pressures of O{sub 2} and Ar background gases. During the deposition, the LaAlO{sub 3} ablation plume is also studied, in situ, by fast photography and space-resolved optical emission spectroscopy. An interesting correlation between interfacial conductivity and kinetic energy of the Al atoms in the plume is observed: to assure conducting interfaces of amorphous-LaAlO{sub 3}/SrTiO{sub 3}, the kinetic energy of Al should be higher than 1 eV. Ourmore » findings add further insights on mechanisms leading to interfacial conductivity in SrTiO{sub 3}-based oxide heterostructures.« less

  18. An Electrochemistry Study of Cryoelectrolysis in Frozen Physiological Saline.

    PubMed

    Manuel, Thomas J; Munnangi, Pujita; Rubinsky, Boris

    2017-07-01

    Cryoelectrolysis is a new minimally invasive tissue ablation surgical technique that combines the processes of electrolysis and solid/liquid phase transformation (freezing). This study investigated this new technique by measuring the pH front propagation and the changes in resistance in a tissue simulant made of physiological saline gel with a pH dye as a function of the sample temperature in the high subzero range above the eutectic. Results demonstrated that effective electrolysis can occur in a high subzero freezing milieu and that the propagation of the pH front is only weakly dependent on temperature. These observations are consistent with a mechanism involving ionic movement through the concentrated saline solution channels between ice crystals at subfreezing temperatures above the eutectic. Moreover, results suggest that Joule heating in these microchannels may cause local microscopic melting, the observed weak dependence of pH front propagation on temperature, and the large changes in resistance with time. A final insight provided by the results is that the pH front propagation from the anode is more rapid than from the cathode, a feature indicative of the electro-osmotic flow from the cathode to the anode. The findings in this paper may be critical for designing future cryoelectrolytic ablation surgery protocols.

  19. ON THE PARALLEL AND PERPENDICULAR PROPAGATING MOTIONS VISIBLE IN POLAR PLUMES: AN INCUBATOR FOR (FAST) SOLAR WIND ACCELERATION?

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liu, Jiajia; Wang, Yuming; McIntosh, Scott W.

    We combine observations of the Coronal Multi-channel Polarimeter and the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory to study the characteristic properties of (propagating) Alfvénic motions and quasi-periodic intensity disturbances in polar plumes. This unique combination of instruments highlights the physical richness of the processes taking place at the base of the (fast) solar wind. The (parallel) intensity perturbations with intensity enhancements around 1% have an apparent speed of 120 km s{sup −1} (in both the 171 and 193 Å passbands) and a periodicity of 15 minutes, while the (perpendicular) Alfvénic wave motions have a velocity amplitude ofmore » 0.5 km s{sup −1}, a phase speed of 830 km s{sup −1}, and a shorter period of 5 minutes on the same structures. These observations illustrate a scenario where the excited Alfvénic motions are propagating along an inhomogeneously loaded magnetic field structure such that the combination could be a potential progenitor of the magnetohydrodynamic turbulence required to accelerate the fast solar wind.« less

  20. Temporally and Spatially Resolved Plasma Spectroscopy in Pulsed Laser Deposition of Ultra-Thin Boron Nitride Films (Postprint)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-04-24

    AFRL-RX-WP-JA-2016-0196 TEMPORALLY AND SPATIALLY RESOLVED PLASMA SPECTROSCOPY IN PULSED LASER DEPOSITION OF ULTRA-THIN BORON NITRIDE...AND SPATIALLY RESOLVED PLASMA SPECTROSCOPY IN PULSED LASER DEPOSITION OF ULTRA-THIN BORON NITRIDE FILMS (POSTPRINT) 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER FA8650...distributions within a PVD plasma plume ablated from a boron nitride (BN) target by a KrF laser at different pressures of nitrogen gas were investigated

  1. System and method for high precision isotope ratio destructive analysis

    DOEpatents

    Bushaw, Bruce A; Anheier, Norman C; Phillips, Jon R

    2013-07-02

    A system and process are disclosed that provide high accuracy and high precision destructive analysis measurements for isotope ratio determination of relative isotope abundance distributions in liquids, solids, and particulate samples. The invention utilizes a collinear probe beam to interrogate a laser ablated plume. This invention provides enhanced single-shot detection sensitivity approaching the femtogram range, and isotope ratios that can be determined at approximately 1% or better precision and accuracy (relative standard deviation).

  2. Surgical smoke - a health hazard in the operating theatre: a study to quantify exposure and a survey of the use of smoke extractor systems in UK plastic surgery units.

    PubMed

    Hill, D S; O'Neill, J K; Powell, R J; Oliver, D W

    2012-07-01

    Surgeons and operating theatre personnel are routinely exposed to the surgical smoke plume generated through thermal tissue destruction. This represents a significant chemical and biological hazard and has been shown to be as mutagenic as cigarette smoke. It has previously been reported that ablation of 1 g of tissue produces a smoke plume with an equivalent mutagenicity to six unfiltered cigarettes. We studied six human and 78 porcine tissue samples to find the mass of tissue ablated during 5 min of monopolar diathermy. The total daily duration of diathermy use in a plastic surgery theatre was electronically recorded over a two-month period. On average the smoke produced daily was equivalent to 27-30 cigarettes. Our survey of smoke extractor use in UK plastic surgery units revealed that only 66% of units had these devices available. The Health and Safety Executive recommend specialist smoke extractor use, however they are not universally utilised. Surgical smoke inhalation is an occupational hazard in the operating department. Our study provides data to quantify this exposure. We hope this evidence can be used together with current legislation to make the use of surgical smoke extractors mandatory to protect all personnel in the operating theatre. Copyright © 2012 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Signatures of Nonlinear Waves in Coronal Plumes and Holes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ofman, Leon

    1999-01-01

    In recent Ultraviolet Coronagraph Spectrometer/Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (UVCS/SOHO) White Light Channel (WLC) observations we found quasi-periodic variations in the polarized brightness (pB) in the polar coronal holes at heliocentric distances of 1.9-2.45 solar radii. The motivation for the observation is the 2.5D Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) model of solar wind acceleration by nonlinear waves, that predicts compressive fluctuations in coronal holes. To help identify the waves observed with the UVCS/WLC we model the propagation and dissipation of slow magnetosonic waves in polar plumes using 1D MHD code in spherical geometry, We find that the slow waves nonlinearly steepen in the gravitationally stratified plumes. The nonlinear steepening of the waves leads to enhanced dissipation due to compressive viscosity at the wave-fronts.

  4. Influence of electron dynamics on the enhancement of double-pulse femtosecond laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy of fused silica

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cao, Zhitao; Jiang, Lan; Wang, Sumei; Wang, Mengmeng; Liu, Lei; Yang, Fan; Lu, Yongfeng

    2018-03-01

    Femtosecond laser pulse train induced breakdown of fused silica was studied by investigating its plasma emission and the ablated crater morphology. It was demonstrated that the electron dynamics in the ablated fused silica play a dominant role in the emission intensity of induced plasma and the volume of material removal, corresponding to the evolution of free-electron, self-trapped excitons, and the phase change of the fused silica left over by the first pulse. For a fluence of 11 J/cm2, the maximum plasma intensity of double-pulse irradiation at an interpulse delay of 120 ps was about 35 times stronger than that of a single-pulse, while the ablated crater was reduced by 27% in volume. The ionization of slow plume component generated by the first pulse was found to be the main reason for the extremely high intensity enhancement for an interpulse delay of over 10 ps. The results serve as a route to simultaneously increase the spatial resolution and plasma intensity in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy of dielectrics.

  5. Asymmetric sea-floor spreading caused by ridge-plume interactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Müller, R. Dietmar; Roest, Walter R.; Royer, Jean-Yves

    1998-12-01

    Crustal accretion at mid-ocean ridges is generally modelled as a symmetric process. Regional analyses, however, often show either small-scale asymmetries, which vary rapidly between individual spreading corridors, or large-scale asymmetries represented by consistent excess accretion on one of the two separating plates over geological time spans. In neither case is the origin of the asymmetry well understood. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of the asymmetry of crustal accretion over the past 83Myr based on a set of self-consistent digital isochrons and models of absolute plate motion,. We find that deficits in crustal accretion occur mainly on ridge flanks overlying one or several hotspots. We therefore propose that asymmetric accretion is caused by ridge propagation towards mantle plumes or minor ridge jumps sustained by asthenospheric flow, between ridges and plumes. Quantifying the asymmetry of crustal accretion provides a complementary approach to that based on geochemical and other geophysical data, in helping to unravel how mantle plumes and mid-ocean ridges are linked through mantle convection processes.

  6. Morphological and chemical evolution on InP(1 0 0) surface irradiated with femtosecond laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qian, H. X.; Zhou, W.; Zheng, H. Y.; Lim, G. C.

    2005-12-01

    Single crystalline InP was ablated in air with p-polarized Ti:sapphire femtosecond laser at a fixed laser fluence of 82 mJ/cm 2. Ripples parallel to the laser polarization direction were found by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to form for laser pulses ranging from 50 to 1000, whereas flower-like structures appeared for laser pulses of 10 4 and above. Analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed formation of indium and phosphorus oxides on the irradiated surface and the amounts of oxides increased with increasing number of laser pulses. The oxide formation is attributed to chemical reaction between the ultrafast laser ablation plume and oxygen in air, and formation of the flower-like structures is shown to be related to deposition of the oxides on the irradiated surface.

  7. Numerical modeling of pulsed laser-material interaction and of laser plume dynamics

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhao, Qiang; Shi, Yina

    2015-03-10

    We have developed two-dimensional Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) code which is used to study the physical processes, the plasma absorption, the crater profile, and the temperature distribution on metallic target and below the surface. The ALE method overcomes problems with Lagrangian moving mesh distortion by mesh smoothing and conservative quantities remapping from Lagrangian mesh to smoothed one. A new second order accurate diffusion solver has been implemented for the thermal conduction and radiation transport on distorted mesh. The results of numerical simulation of pulsed laser ablation are presented. The influences of different processes, such as time evolution of the surfacemore » temperature, interspecies interactions (elastic collisions, recombination-dissociation reaction), interaction with an ambient gas are examined. The study presents particular interest for the analysis of experimental results obtained during pulsed laser ablation.« less

  8. A model of early formation of uranium molecular oxides in laser-ablated plasmas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Finko, Mikhail S.; Curreli, Davide; Weisz, David G.

    Here, in this work, we present a newly constructed U xO y reaction mechanism that consists of 30 reaction channels (21 of which are reversible channels) for 11 uranium molecular species (including ions). Both the selection of reaction channels and calculation of corresponding rate coefficients is accomplished via a comprehensive literature review and application of basic reaction rate theory. The reaction mechanism is supplemented by a detailed description of oxygen plasma chemistry (19 species and 142 reaction channels) and is used to model an atmospheric laser ablated uranium plume via a 0D (global) model. Finally, the global model is usedmore » to analyze the evolution of key uranium molecular species predicted by the reaction mechanism, and the initial stage of formation of uranium oxide species.« less

  9. A model of early formation of uranium molecular oxides in laser-ablated plasmas

    DOE PAGES

    Finko, Mikhail S.; Curreli, Davide; Weisz, David G.; ...

    2017-10-12

    Here, in this work, we present a newly constructed U xO y reaction mechanism that consists of 30 reaction channels (21 of which are reversible channels) for 11 uranium molecular species (including ions). Both the selection of reaction channels and calculation of corresponding rate coefficients is accomplished via a comprehensive literature review and application of basic reaction rate theory. The reaction mechanism is supplemented by a detailed description of oxygen plasma chemistry (19 species and 142 reaction channels) and is used to model an atmospheric laser ablated uranium plume via a 0D (global) model. Finally, the global model is usedmore » to analyze the evolution of key uranium molecular species predicted by the reaction mechanism, and the initial stage of formation of uranium oxide species.« less

  10. Flow-Based Network Analysis of the Caenorhabditis elegans Connectome

    PubMed Central

    Bacik, Karol A.; Schaub, Michael T.; Billeh, Yazan N.; Barahona, Mauricio

    2016-01-01

    We exploit flow propagation on the directed neuronal network of the nematode C. elegans to reveal dynamically relevant features of its connectome. We find flow-based groupings of neurons at different levels of granularity, which we relate to functional and anatomical constituents of its nervous system. A systematic in silico evaluation of the full set of single and double neuron ablations is used to identify deletions that induce the most severe disruptions of the multi-resolution flow structure. Such ablations are linked to functionally relevant neurons, and suggest potential candidates for further in vivo investigation. In addition, we use the directional patterns of incoming and outgoing network flows at all scales to identify flow profiles for the neurons in the connectome, without pre-imposing a priori categories. The four flow roles identified are linked to signal propagation motivated by biological input-response scenarios. PMID:27494178

  11. Comparing an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) as a viable alternative for mid-infrared tissue ablation with a free electron laser (FEL).

    PubMed

    Mackanos, Mark A; Simanovskii, Dmitrii M; Contag, Christopher H; Kozub, John A; Jansen, E Duco

    2012-11-01

    Beneficial medical laser ablation removes material efficiently with minimal collateral damage. A Mark-III free electron laser (FEL), at a wavelength of 6.45 μm has demonstrated minimal damage and high ablation yield in ocular and neural tissues. While this wavelength has shown promise for surgical applications, further advances are limited by the high overhead for FEL use. Alternative mid-infrared sources are needed for further development. We compared the FEL with a 5-μs pulse duration with a Q-switched ZGP-OPO with a 100-ns pulse duration at mid-infrared wavelengths. There were no differences in the ablation threshold of water and mouse dermis with these two sources in spite of the difference in their pulse structures. There was a significant difference in crater depth between the ZGP:OPO and the FEL. At 6.1 μm, the OPO craters are eight times the depth of the FEL craters. The OPO craters at 6.45 and 6.73 μm were six and five times the depth of the FEL craters, respectively. Bright-field (pump-probe) images showed the classic ablation mechanism from formation of a plume through collapse and recoil. The crater formation, ejection, and collapse phases occurred on a faster time-scale with the OPO than with the FEL. This research showed that a ZGP-OPO laser could be a viable alternative to FEL for clinical applications.

  12. Improving Fidelity of Launch Vehicle Liftoff Acoustic Simulations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Liever, Peter; West, Jeff

    2016-01-01

    Launch vehicles experience high acoustic loads during ignition and liftoff affected by the interaction of rocket plume generated acoustic waves with launch pad structures. Application of highly parallelized Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis tools optimized for application on the NAS computer systems such as the Loci/CHEM program now enable simulation of time-accurate, turbulent, multi-species plume formation and interaction with launch pad geometry and capture the generation of acoustic noise at the source regions in the plume shear layers and impingement regions. These CFD solvers are robust in capturing the acoustic fluctuations, but they are too dissipative to accurately resolve the propagation of the acoustic waves throughout the launch environment domain along the vehicle. A hybrid Computational Fluid Dynamics and Computational Aero-Acoustics (CFD/CAA) modeling framework has been developed to improve such liftoff acoustic environment predictions. The framework combines the existing highly-scalable NASA production CFD code, Loci/CHEM, with a high-order accurate discontinuous Galerkin (DG) solver, Loci/THRUST, developed in the same computational framework. Loci/THRUST employs a low dissipation, high-order, unstructured DG method to accurately propagate acoustic waves away from the source regions across large distances. The DG solver is currently capable of solving up to 4th order solutions for non-linear, conservative acoustic field propagation. Higher order boundary conditions are implemented to accurately model the reflection and refraction of acoustic waves on launch pad components. The DG solver accepts generalized unstructured meshes, enabling efficient application of common mesh generation tools for CHEM and THRUST simulations. The DG solution is coupled with the CFD solution at interface boundaries placed near the CFD acoustic source regions. Both simulations are executed simultaneously with coordinated boundary condition data exchange.

  13. Galapagos hotspot-spreading center system: 1. Spatial petrological and geochemical variations (83/sup 0/W-101/sup 0/W)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schilling, J.; Kingsley, R.H.; Devine, J.D.

    We report on the petrology and geochemistry of basalts dredged at 40--50 km intervals along the Galapagos Spreading Center, between 83/sup 0/W and 101/sup 0/W (40 stations). Emphasis is on spatial variations of 'whole rock' major elements, rare earths, trace metals of the first transition series, and the nature of phenocryst assemblages and their abundances. These results provide new constraints on the nature and scale of mantle source heterogeneities, melting conditions, thermal field, and dynamics of crustal formation of the region. We suggest that ridge segments outside the high magnetic amplitude zone are at a steady state as a resultmore » of passive seafloor spreading. Basalts from these segments are apparently derived from an asthenosphere relatively uniformally depleted in incompatible elements, which appears of worldwide extent. We reject Vogt and DeBoer's (1976) model invoking damming at fracture zones of subaxial asthenosphere flow of crystal slushes and increasing fractional crystallization down the flow line, because this model would not explain the gradients in REE observed about the Galapagos Platform. Our preferred model combines the mantle-plume binary mixing model of Schilling (1973) with the concept of recurring rift propagation proposed by Hey (1977a). We further propose that pulsating mantle plume flux, perhaps in the form of a chain of blobs, may initiate the development of new rifts and their propagation. The present position of the tips of such new propagating rifts locate the wave fronts of such pulsating mantle plume flow. A two million year period is suggested for the last 4 m.y. from Wilson and Hey's (1979) information Rigorous testing of our preferred model is possible.« less

  14. 3-D Modeling of a Nearshore Dye Release

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maxwell, A. R.; Hibler, L. F.; Miller, L. M.

    2006-12-01

    The usage of computer modeling software in predicting the behavior of a plume discharged into deep water is well established. Nearfield plume spreading in coastal areas with complex bathymetry is less commonly studied; in addition to geometry, some of the difficulties of this environment include: tidal exchange, temperature, and salinity gradients. Although some researchers have applied complex hydrodynamic models to this problem, nearfield regions are typically modeled by calibration of an empirical or expert system model. In the present study, the 3D hydrodynamic model Delft3D-FLOW was used to predict the advective transport from a point release in Sequim Bay, Washington. A nested model approach was used, wherein a coarse model using a mesh extending to nearby tide gages (cell sizes up to 1 km) was run over several tidal cycles in order to provide boundary conditions to a smaller area. The nested mesh (cell sizes up to 30 m) was forced on two open boundaries using the water surface elevation derived from the coarse model. Initial experiments with the uncalibrated model were conducted in order to predict plume propagation based on the best available field data. Field experiments were subsequently carried out by releasing rhodamine dye into the bay at near-peak flood tidal current and near high slack tidal conditions. Surface and submerged releases were carried out from an anchored vessel. Concurrently collected data from the experiment include temperature, salinity, dye concentration, and hyperspectral imagery, collected from boats and aircraft. A REMUS autonomous underwater vehicle was used to measure current velocity and dye concentration at varying depths, as well as to acquire additional bathymetric information. Preliminary results indicate that the 3D hydrodynamic model offers a reasonable prediction of plume propagation speed and shape. A sensitivity analysis is underway to determine the significant factors in effectively using the model as a predictive tool for plume tracking in data-limited environments. The Delft-PART stochastic particle transport model is also being examined to determine its utility for the present study.

  15. Ablation of multi-wavelet re-entry: general principles and in silico analyses.

    PubMed

    Spector, Peter S; Correa de Sa, Daniel D; Tischler, Ethan S; Thompson, Nathaniel C; Habel, Nicole; Stinnett-Donnelly, Justin; Benson, Bryce E; Bielau, Philipp; Bates, Jason H T

    2012-11-01

    Catheter ablation strategies for treatment of cardiac arrhythmias are quite successful when targeting spatially constrained substrates. Complex, dynamic, and spatially varying substrates, however, pose a significant challenge for ablation, which delivers spatially fixed lesions. We describe tissue excitation using concepts of surface topology which provides a framework for addressing this challenge. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of mechanism-based ablation strategies in the setting of complex dynamic substrates. We used a computational model of propagation through electrically excitable tissue to test the effects of ablation on excitation patterns of progressively greater complexity, from fixed rotors to multi-wavelet re-entry. Our results indicate that (i) focal ablation at a spiral-wave core does not result in termination; (ii) termination requires linear lesions from the tissue edge to the spiral-wave core; (iii) meandering spiral-waves terminate upon collision with a boundary (linear lesion or tissue edge); (iv) the probability of terminating multi-wavelet re-entry is proportional to the ratio of total boundary length to tissue area; (v) the efficacy of linear lesions varies directly with the regional density of spiral-waves. We establish a theoretical framework for re-entrant arrhythmias that explains the requirements for their successful treatment. We demonstrate the inadequacy of focal ablation for spatially fixed spiral-waves. Mechanistically guided principles for ablating multi-wavelet re-entry are provided. The potential to capitalize upon regional heterogeneity of spiral-wave density for improved ablation efficacy is described.

  16. Use of a compact fiber optic spectrometer for spectral feedback during the laser ablation of dental hard tissues and restorative materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Joyce Y.; Fan, Kenneth; Fried, Daniel

    2006-02-01

    One perceived disadvantage of caries removal using lasers is the loss of the tactile feedback associated with the handpiece. However, alternative methods of acoustic and optical feedback become available with the laser that can be exploited to provide information about the chemical composition of the material ablated, the ablation efficiency and rate, the depth of the incision, and the surface and plume temperature during ablation. Such information can be used to increase the selectivity of ablation, avoid peripheral thermal damage and excessive heat deposition in the tooth, and provide a mechanism of robotic automation. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that a compact fiberoptic spectrometer could be used to differentiate between the ablation of sound and carious enamel and dentin and between dental hard tissues and composite. Sound and carious tooth surfaces along with composite restorative materials were scanned with λ=0.355, 2.79 and 9.3 μm laser pulses at irradiation intensities ranging from 0.5-100 J/cm2 and spectra were acquired from λ=250-900-nm using a compact fiber-optic spectrometer. Emission spectra varied markedly with the laser wavelength and pulse duration. Optical feedback was not successful in differentiating between sound and carious enamel and dentin even with the addition of various chromophores to carious lesion areas. However, the spectral feedback was successfully used to differentiate between composites and sound enamel and dentin enabling the selective removal of composite from tooth surfaces using a computer controlled λ=9.3-μm pulsed CO II laser and scanning system.

  17. Laser antisepsis of Phorphyromonas gingivalis in vitro with dental lasers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harris, David M.

    2004-05-01

    It has been shown that both pulsed Nd:YAG (1064nm) and continuous diode (810nm) dental lasers kill pathogenic bacteria (laser antisepsis), but a quantitative method for determining clinical dosimetry does not exist. The purpose of this study was to develop a method to quantify the efficacy of ablation of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) in vitro for two different lasers. The ablation thresholds for the two lasers were compared in the following manner. The energy density was measured as a function of distance from the output of the fiber-optic delivery system. Pg cultures were grown on blood agar plates under standard anaerobic conditions. Blood agar provides an approximation of gingival tissue for the wavelengths tested in having hemoglobin as a primary absorber. Single pulses (Nd:YAG: 100- Œs diode: 100-msec) of laser energy were delivered to Pg colonies and the energy density was increased until the appearance of a small plume was observed coincident with a laser pulse. The energy density at this point defines the ablation threshold. Ablation thresholds to a single pulse were determined for both Pg and for blood agar alone. The large difference in ablation thresholds between the pigmented pathogen and the host matrix for pulsed-Nd:YAG represented a significant therapeutic ratio and Pg was ablated without visible effect on the blood agar. Near threshold the 810-nm diode laser destroyed both the pathogen and the gel. Clinically, the pulsed Nd:YAG may selectively destroy pigmented pathogens leaving the surrounding tissue intact. The 810-nm diode laser may not demonstrate this selectivity due to its longer pulse length and greater absorption by hemoglobin.

  18. Negative charge emission due to excimer laser bombardment of sodium trisilicate glass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Langford, S. C.; Jensen, L. C.; Dickinson, J. T.; Pederson, L. R.

    1990-10-01

    We describe measurements of negative charge emission accompanying irradiation of sodium trisilicate glass (Na2Oṡ3SiO2) with 248-nm excimer laser light at fluences on the order of 2 J/cm2 per pulse, i.e., at the threshold for ablative etching of the glass surface. The negative charge emission consists of a very prompt photoelectron burst coincident with the laser pulse, followed by a much slower plume of electrons and negative ions traveling with a high density cloud of positive ions, previously identified as primarily Na+. Using combinations of E and B fields in conjunction with time-of-flight methods, the negative ions were successfully separated from the plume and tentatively identified as O-, Si-, NaO-, and perhaps NaSi-. These negative species are probably formed by gas phase collisions in the near-surface region which result in electron attachment.

  19. Diagnostics of Carbon Nanotube Formation in a Laser Produced Plume: Spectroscopic in situ nanotube detection using spectral absorption and surface temperature measurements by black body emission

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    DeBoer, Gary D.

    2005-01-01

    Carbon nanotubes hold great promise for material advancements in the areas of composites and electronics. The advancement of research in these areas is dependent upon the availability of carbon nanotubes to a broad spectrum of academic and industrial researchers. Although there has been much progress made in reducing the costs of carbon nanotubes and increasing the quality and purity of the products, an increase in demand for still less expensive and specific nanotubes types has also grown. This summer's work has involved two experiments that have been designed to further the understanding of the dynamics and chemical mechanisms of carbon nanotube formation. It is expected that a better understanding of the process of formation of nanotubes will aid current production designs and stimulate ideas for future production designs increasing the quantity, quality, and production control of carbon nanotubes. The first experiment involved the measurement of surface temperature of the target as a function of time with respect to the ablation lasers. A peak surface temperature of 5000 K was determined from spectral analysis of black body emission from the target surface. The surface temperature as a function of various changes in operating parameters was also obtained. This data is expected to aid the modeling of ablation and plume dynamics. The second experiment involved a time and spatial measurement of the spectrally resolved absorbance of the laser produced plume. This experiment explored the possibility of developing absorbance and fluorescence to detect carbon nanotubes during production. To attain control over the production of nanotubes with specific properties and reduce costs, a real time in situ diagnostics method would be very beneficial. Results from this summer's work indicate that detection of nanotubes during production may possibly be used for production feed back control.

  20. Laser dosimetry planning tool for colonoscopic tumor resection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pelayo-Fernández, M. L.; Fanjul-Vélez, F.; Salas-García, I.; Zverev, M.; Arce-Diego, J. L.

    2016-03-01

    Gastrointestinal tumoral pathologies are quite common nowadays. Diseases such as gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) or actinic proctitis may require endoscopic surgery. Argon Plasma Coagulated (APC) or radiofrequency are usually employed. However, they present disadvantages, such as the reduced treated area, magnetic resonance incompatibility, or an uncontrolled ablation depth. Optical surgery could avoid these problems and contribute to a better and controlled treatment result, either ablative or coagulative, in a minimally invasive, non-contact and non-ionizing way. The treatment area could also be increased by adequate optical fiber probe design. In this work laser surgery is analyzed for resection of colonic tumors. A Monte Carlo model is employed to study optical propagation, and an optical ablation approach allows the estimation of the resected volume. The ablation approach is based on plasma-induced ablation, particularly taking into account the freeelectron density generated in the tissue by the pulsed optical source. Several wavelengths, radii and malignant tissue types are considered, either healthy, adenomatous or even coagulated tissues. Optimum source parameters as a function of tumor geometry can be estimated for treatment planning.

  1. Photoactive dye-enhanced tissue ablation for endoscopic laser prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Ahn, Minwoo; Hau, Nguyen Trung; Van Phuc, Nguyen; Oh, Junghwan; Kang, Hyun Wook

    2014-11-01

    Laser light has been widely used as a surgical tool to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) over 20 years. Recently, application of high laser power up to 200 W was often reported to swiftly remove a large amount of prostatic tissue. The purpose of this study was to validate the feasibility of photoactive dye injection to enhance light absorption and eventually to facilitate tissue vaporization with low laser power. Chicken breast tissue was selected as a target tissue due to minimal optical absorption at the visible wavelength. Four biocompatible photoactive dyes, including amaranth (AR), black dye (BD), hemoglobin powder (HP), and endoscopic marker (EM), were selected and tested in vitro with a customized 532 nm laser system with radiant exposure ranging from 0.9 to 3.9 J/cm(2) . Light absorbance and ablation threshold were measured with UV-Vis spectrometer and Probit analysis, respectively, and compared to feature the function of the injected dyes. Ablation performance with dye-injection was evaluated in light of radiant exposure, dye concentration, and number of injection. Higher light absorption by injected dyes led to lower ablation threshold as well as more efficient tissue removal in the order of AR, BD, HP, and EM. Regardless of the injected dyes, ablation efficiency principally increased with radiant exposure, dye concentration, and number of injection. Among the dyes, AR created the highest ablation rate of 44.2 ± 0.2 µm/pulse due to higher absorbance and lower ablation threshold. High aspect ratios up to 7.1 ± 0.4 entailed saturation behavior in the tissue ablation injected with AR and BD, possibly resulting from plume shielding and increased scattering due to coagulation. Preliminary tests on canine prostate with a hydraulic injection system demonstrated that 80 W with dye injection yielded comparable ablation efficiency to 120 W with no injection, indicating 33% reduced laser power with almost equivalent performance. Due to efficient coupling of optical energy, pre-injection of photoactive dyes promoted the degree of tissue removal during laser irradiation. Further studies will investigate spatial distribution of dyes and optimal injecting pressure to govern the extent of dye-assisted ablation in a predictable manner. In-depth comprehension on photoactive dye-enhanced tissue ablation can help accomplish efficient and safe laser vaporization for BPH with low power application. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  2. Angular distributions of plasma edge velocity and integrated intensity: Update on specific impulse for Ablative Laser Propulsion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Jun; Pakhomov, Andrew V.

    2005-04-01

    This work concludes our discussion of the image processing technique developed earlier for determination of specific impulse (Isp) for Ablative Laser Propulsion (ALP). The plasma plumes are recorded with a time-resolved intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) camera. The plasma was formed in vacuum (˜ 3×10-3 Torr) by focusing output pulses of a laser system (100-ps pulsewidth at 532 nm wavelength and ˜35 mJ energy) on surfaces of C (graphite), Al, Si, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sn, and Pb elements. Angular profiles for integrated intensity and plasma expansion velocity were determined for the tested elements. Such profiles were used further for assessment of specific impulse. Specific impulses derived from angular distributions of plasma expansion velocity and integral intensity appeared in excellent agreement with the data derived earlier from force measurements.

  3. Three-dimensional numerical simulation during laser processing of CFRP

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ohkubo, Tomomasa; Sato, Yuji; Matsunaga, Ei-ichi; Tsukamoto, Masahiro

    2017-09-01

    We performed three-dimensional numerical simulation about laser processing of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) using OpenFOAM as libraries of finite volume method (FVM). Although a little theoretical or numerical studies about heat affected zone (HAZ) formation were performed, there is no research discussing how HAZ is generated considering time development about removal of each material. It is important to understand difference of removal speed of carbon fiber and resin in order to improve quality of cut surface of CFRP. We demonstrated how the carbon fiber and resin are removed by heat of ablation plume by our simulation. We found that carbon fiber is removed faster than resin at first stage because of the difference of thermal conductivity, and after that, the resin is removed faster because of its low combustion temperature. This result suggests the existence of optimal contacting time of the laser ablation and kerf of the target.

  4. Role of dual-laser ablation in controlling the Pb depletion in epitaxial growth of Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 thin films with enhanced surface quality and ferroelectric properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mukherjee, Devajyoti; Hyde, Robert; Mukherjee, Pritish; Srikanth, Hariharan; Witanachchi, Sarath

    2012-03-01

    Pb depletion in Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT) thin films has remained as a major setback in the growth of defect-free PZT thin films by pulsed laser ablation techniques. At low excimer (KrF) laser fluences, the high volatility of Pb in PZT leads to non-congruent target ablation and, consequently, non-stoichiometric films, whereas, at high laser fluences, the inherent ejection of molten droplets from the target leads to particulate laden films, which is undesirable in heterostructure growth. To overcome these issues, a dual-laser ablation (PLDDL) process that combines an excimer (KrF) laser and CO2 laser pulses was used to grow epitaxial PZT films on SrTiO3 (100) and MgO (100) substrates. Intensified-charge-coupled-detector (ICCD) images and optical emission spectroscopy of the laser-ablated plumes in PLDDL revealed a broader angular expansion and enhanced excitation of the ablated species as compared to those for single-laser ablation (PLDSL). This led to the growth of particulate-free PZT films with higher Pb content, better crystallinity, and lower surface roughness as compared to those deposited using PLDSL. For FE measurements, PZT capacitors were fabricated in situ using the latticed-matched metallic oxide, La0.7Sr0.3MnO3, as the top and bottom electrodes. PZT films deposited using PLDDL exhibited enhanced polarization for all driving voltages as compared to those deposited using PLDSL. A highest remanent polarization (Pr) of ˜91 μC/cm2 and low coercive field of ˜40 kV/cm was recorded at 9 V driving voltage. Fatigue characterization revealed that PZT films deposited using PLDDL showed unchanging polarization, even after 109 switching cycles.

  5. Characteristics of a Direct Current-driven plasma jet operated in open air

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Xuechen; Di, Cong; Jia, Pengying; Bao, Wenting

    2013-09-01

    A DC-driven plasma jet has been developed to generate a diffuse plasma plume by blowing argon into the ambient air. The plasma plume, showing a cup shape with a diameter of several centimeters at a higher voltage, is a pulsed discharge despite a DC voltage is applied. The pulse frequency is investigated as a function of the voltage under different gap widths and gas flow rates. Results show that plasma bullets propagate from the hollow needle to the plate electrode by spatially resolved measurement. A supposition about non-electroneutral trail of the streamer is proposed to interpret these experimental phenomena.

  6. Numerical Simulation of Laser Ablative Shock Waves From Aluminum in Presence of Helium Gas At Different Ambient Pressures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Paturi, Prem Kiran; Durvasula, P. S. L. Kameswari; S, Sai Shiva; Acrhem, University Of Hyderabad Team

    2017-06-01

    A two dimensional comparative study of Laser Ablative Shock Wave into the Aluminum target in the presence of Helium gas at different ambient pressures over a range of 690 - 105 Pa performed using FLASH hydrodynamic codes will be presented. The irradiation of Aluminum target (thickness 2 mm and radius 3 mm) with a 7 ns laser pulse of energy 175 mJ, spot size of 150 µm on the target surface at a wavelength of 532 nm at normal incidence is simulated. Helium gas enclosed in a chamber of height 3 mm and width 3 mm. The electron-ion inverse bremsstrahlung absorption coefficient is considered in the laser energy deposition process. The simulation was performed over a duration of 1 μs. It was observed that an ablative shock is launched into the Helium gas for the pressures of 0.5 atm and above. However, for pressure less than the 0.5 atm the plasma expanded into the He gas upto 12ns and after which due to pressure equilibration with the surroundings and plume splitting shock wave is launched in to Al. Authors acknowledge funding from DRDO, India.

  7. Ablative Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov Instabilities in Laser-Accelerated Colliding Foils

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aglitskiy, Y.; Metzler, N.; Karasik, M.; Serlin, V.; Weaver, J.; Obenschain, S. P.; Oh, J.; Schmitt, A. J.; Velikovich, A. L.; Zalesak, S. T.; Gardner, J. H.; Harding, E. C.

    2008-11-01

    In our experiments done on the Nike KrF laser, we study instability growth at shock-decelerated interfaces in planar colliding-foil experiments. We use streaked monochromatic (1.86 keV) x-ray face-on imaging diagnostics to measure the areal mass modulation growth caused by the instability. Higher x-ray energies up to 5.25 keV are used to follow the shock propagation as well as the 1D dynamics of the collision. While a laser-driven foil is accelerated towards the stationary low-density foam layer, an ablative RT instability develops. Having reached a high velocity, the foil hits the foam layer. The impact generates strong shocks in the plastic and in the foam. The reflected shock wave re-shocks the ablation front, its acceleration stops, and so does the observed RT growth. This is followed by areal mass oscillations due to the ablative RM instability and feedout mechanisms, of which the latter dominates.

  8. The controversy over plumes: Who is actually right?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Puchkov, V. N.

    2009-01-01

    The current state of the theory of mantle plumes and its relation to classic plate tectonics show that the “plume” line of geodynamic research is in a period of serious crisis. The number of publications criticizing this concept is steadily increasing. The initial suggestions of plumes’ advocates are disputed, and not without grounds. Questions have been raised as to whether all plumes are derived from the mantle-core interface; whether they all have a wide head and a narrow tail; whether they are always accompanied by uplifting of the Earth’s surface; and whether they can be reliably identified by geochemical signatures, e.g., by the helium-isotope ratio. Rather convincing evidence indicates that plumes cannot be regarded as a strictly fixed reference frame for moving lithospheric plates. More generally, the very existence of plumes has become the subject of debate. Alternative ideas contend that all plumes, or hot spots, are directly related to plate-tectonic mechanisms and appear as a result of shallow tectonic stress, subsequent decompression, and melting of the mantle enriched in basaltic material. Attempts have been made to explain the regular variation in age of volcanoes in ocean ridges by the crack propagation mechanism or by drift of melted segregations of enriched mantle in a nearly horizontal asthenospheric flow. In the author’s opinion, the crisis may be overcome by returning to the beginnings of the plume concept and by providing an adequate specification of plume attributes. Only mantle flows with sources situated below the asthenosphere should be referred to as plumes. These flows are not directly related to such plate-tectonic mechanisms as passive rifting and decompression melting in the upper asthenosphere and are marked by time-progressive volcanic chains; their subasthenospheric roots are detected in seismic tomographic images. Such plumes are mostly located at the margins of superswells, regions of attenuation of seismic waves at the mantle-core interface.

  9. Wind influence on a coastal buoyant outflow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Whitney, Michael M.; Garvine, Richard W.

    2005-03-01

    This paper investigates the interplay between river discharge and winds in forcing coastal buoyant outflows. During light winds a plume influenced by the Earth's rotation will flow down shelf (in the direction of Kelvin wave propagation) as a slender buoyancy-driven coastal current. Downwelling favorable winds augment this down-shelf flow, narrow the plume, and mix the water column. Upwelling favorable winds drive currents that counter the buoyancy-driven flow, spread plume waters offshore, and rapidly mix buoyant waters. Two criteria are developed to assess the wind influence on a buoyant outflow. The wind strength index (Ws) determines whether a plume's along-shelf flow is in a wind-driven or buoyancy-driven state. Ws is the ratio of the wind-driven and buoyancy-driven along-shelf velocities. Wind influence on across-shelf plume structure is rated with a timescale (ttilt) for the isopycnal tilting caused by wind-driven Ekman circulation. These criteria are used to characterize wind influence on the Delaware Coastal Current and can be applied to other coastal buoyant outflows. The Delaware buoyant outflow is simulated for springtime high-river discharge conditions. Simulation results and Ws values reveal that the coastal current is buoyancy-driven most of the time (∣Ws∣ < 1 on average). Wind events, however, overwhelm the buoyancy-driven flow (∣Ws∣ > 1) several times during the high-discharge period. Strong upwelling events reverse the buoyant outflow; they constitute an important mechanism for transporting fresh water up shelf. Across-shelf plume structure is more sensitive to wind influence than the along-shelf flow. Values of ttilt indicate that moderate or strong winds persisting throughout a day can modify plume width significantly. Plume widening during upwelling events is accompanied by mixing that can erase the buoyant outflow.

  10. Modeling of Laser Material Interactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garrison, Barbara

    2009-03-01

    Irradiation of a substrate by laser light initiates the complex chemical and physical process of ablation where large amounts of material are removed. Ablation has been successfully used in techniques such as nanolithography and LASIK surgery, however a fundamental understanding of the process is necessary in order to further optimize and develop applications. To accurately describe the ablation phenomenon, a model must take into account the multitude of events which occur when a laser irradiates a target including electronic excitation, bond cleavage, desorption of small molecules, ongoing chemical reactions, propagation of stress waves, and bulk ejection of material. A coarse grained molecular dynamics (MD) protocol with an embedded Monte Carlo (MC) scheme has been developed which effectively addresses each of these events during the simulation. Using the simulation technique, thermal and chemical excitation channels are separately studied with a model polymethyl methacrylate system. The effects of the irradiation parameters and reaction pathways on the process dynamics are investigated. The mechanism of ablation for thermal processes is governed by a critical number of bond breaks following the deposition of energy. For the case where an absorbed photon directly causes a bond scission, ablation occurs following the rapid chemical decomposition of material. The study provides insight into the influence of thermal and chemical processes in polymethyl methacrylate and facilitates greater understanding of the complex nature of polymer ablation.

  11. Predictive analysis of optical ablation in several dermatological tumoral tissues

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fanjul-Vélez, F.; Blanco-Gutiérrez, A.; Salas-García, I.; Ortega-Quijano, N.; Arce-Diego, J. L.

    2013-06-01

    Optical techniques for treatment and characterization of biological tissues are revolutionizing several branches of medical praxis, for example in ophthalmology or dermatology. The non-invasive, non-contact and non-ionizing character of optical radiation makes it specially suitable for these applications. Optical radiation can be employed in medical ablation applications, either for tissue resection or surgery. Optical ablation may provide a controlled and clean cut on a biological tissue. This is particularly relevant in tumoral tissue resection, where a small amount of cancerous cells could make the tumor appear again. A very important aspect of tissue optical ablation is then the estimation of the affected volume. In this work we propose a complete predictive model of tissue ablation that provides an estimation of the resected volume. The model is based on a Monte Carlo approach for the optical propagation of radiation inside the tissue, and a blow-off model for tissue ablation. This model is applied to several types of dermatological tumoral tissues, specifically squamous cells, basocellular and infiltrative carcinomas. The parameters of the optical source are varied and the estimated resected volume is calculated. The results for the different tumor types are presented and compared. This model can be used for surgical planning, in order to assure the complete resection of the tumoral tissue.

  12. Progress of research to identify rotating thunderstorms using satellite imagery

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Anderson, Charles E.

    1988-01-01

    The possibility of detecting potentially tornadic thunderstorm cells from geosynchronous satelite imagery is determined. During the life of the contract, we examined eight tornado outbreak cases which had a total of 124 individual thunderstorm cells, 37 of which were tornadic.These 37 cells produced a total of 119 tornadoes. The outflow characteristics of all the cells were measured. Through the use of a 2-D flow field model, we were able to simulate the downstream developmemt of an anvil cloud plume which was emitted by the storm updraft at or near the tropopause. We used two parameters to characterize the anvil plume behavior: its speed of downstream propagation (U max) and the clockwise deviation of the centerline of the anvil plume from the storm relative ambient wind at the anvil plume outflow level (MDA). U max was the maximum U-component of the anvil wind parameter required to successfully maintain an envelope of translating particles at the tip of the expanding anvil cloud. MDA was the measured deviation angle acquired from McIDAS, between the storm relative ambient wind direction and the storm relative anvil plume outflow direction; tha latter being manipulated by controlling a tangential wind component to force the envelope of particles to maintain their position of surrounding the expanding outflow cloud.

  13. Electrification processes and lightning generation in volcanic plumes—observations from recent eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Van Eaton, A. R.; Smith, C. M.; Schneider, D. J.

    2017-12-01

    Lightning in volcanic plumes provides a promising way to monitor ash-producing eruptions and investigate their dynamics. Among the many methods of lightning detection are global networks of sensors that detect electromagnetic radiation in the very low frequency band (3-30 kHz), including the World Wide Lightning Location Network. These radio waves propagate thousands of kilometers at the speed of light, providing an opportunity for rapid detection of explosive volcanism anywhere in the world. Lightning is particularly valuable as a near real-time indicator of ash-rich plumes that are hazardous to aviation. Yet many fundamental questions remain. Under what conditions does electrical activity in volcanic plumes become powerful, detectable lightning? And conversely, can we use lightning to illuminate eruption processes and hazards? This study highlights recent observations from the eruptions of Redoubt (Alaska, 2009), Kelud (Indonesia, 2014), Calbuco (Chile, 2015), and Bogoslof (Alaska, 2017) to examine volcanic lighting from a range of eruption styles (Surtseyan to Plinian) and mass eruption rates from 10^5 to 10^8 kg/s. It is clear that lightning stroke-rates do not scale in a simple way with mass eruption rate or plume height across different eruptions. However, relative changes in electrical activity through individual eruptions relate to changes in eruptive intensity, ice content, and volcanic plume processes (fall vs. flow).

  14. Effect of saline waste solution infiltration rates on uranium retention and spatial distribution in Hanford sediments.

    PubMed

    Wan, Jiamin; Tokunaga, Tetsu K; Kim, Yongman; Wang, Zheming; Lanzirotti, Antonio; Saiz, Eduardo; Serne, R Jeffrey

    2008-03-15

    The accidental overfilling of waste liquid from tank BX-102 at the Hanford Site in 1951 put about 10 t of U(VI) into the vadose zone. In order to understand the dominant geochemical reactions and transport processes that occurred during the initial infiltration and to help understand current spatial distribution, we simulated the waste liquid spilling event in laboratory sediment columns using synthesized metal waste solution. We found that, as the plume propagated through sediments, pH decreased greatly (as much as 4 units) at the moving plume front. Infiltration flow rates strongly affect U behavior. Slower flow rates resulted in higher sediment-associated U concentrations, and higher flow rates (> or =5 cm/day) permitted practically unretarded U transport. Therefore, given the very high Ksat of most of Hanford formation, the low permeability zones within the sediment could have been most important in retaining high concentrations of U during initial release into the vadose zone. Massive amount of colloids, including U-colloids, formed at the plume fronts. Total U concentrations (aqueous and colloid) within plume fronts exceeded the source concentration by up to 5-fold. Uranium colloid formation and accumulation at the neutralized plume front could be one mechanism responsible for highly heterogeneous U distribution observed in the contaminated Hanford vadose zone.

  15. On the use of a laser ablation as a laboratory seismic source

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Chengyi; Brito, Daniel; Diaz, Julien; Zhang, Deyuan; Poydenot, Valier; Bordes, Clarisse; Garambois, Stéphane

    2017-04-01

    Mimic near-surface seismic imaging conducted in well-controlled laboratory conditions is potentially a powerful tool to study large scale wave propagations in geological media by means of upscaling. Laboratory measurements are indeed particularly suited for tests of theoretical modellings and comparisons with numerical approaches. We have developed an automated Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV) platform, which is able to detect and register broadband nano-scale displacements on the surface of various materials. This laboratory equipment has already been validated in experiments where piezoelectric transducers were used as seismic sources. We are currently exploring a new seismic source in our experiments, a laser ablation, in order to compensate some drawbacks encountered with piezoelectric sources. The laser ablation source is considered to be an interesting ultrasound wave generator since the 1960s. It was believed to have numerous potential applications such as the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and the measurements of velocities and attenuations in solid samples. We aim at adapting and developing this technique into geophysical experimental investigations in order to produce and explore complete micro-seismic data sets in the laboratory. We will first present the laser characteristics including its mechanism, stability, reproducibility, and will evaluate in particular the directivity patterns of such a seismic source. We have started by applying the laser ablation source on the surfaces of multi-scale homogeneous aluminum samples and are now testing it on heterogeneous and fractured limestone cores. Some other results of data processing will also be shown, especially the 2D-slice V P and V S tomographic images obtained in limestone samples. Apart from the experimental records, numerical simulations will be carried out for both the laser source modelling and the wave propagation in different media. First attempts will be done to compare quantitatively the experimental data with simulations. Meanwhile, CT-scan X-ray images of these limestone cores will be used to check the relative pertinences of velocity tomography images produced by this newly developed laser ablation seismic source.

  16. Remote laser evaporative molecular absorption spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hughes, Gary B.; Lubin, Philip; Cohen, Alexander; Madajian, Jonathan; Kulkarni, Neeraj; Zhang, Qicheng; Griswold, Janelle; Brashears, Travis

    2016-09-01

    We describe a novel method for probing bulk molecular and atomic composition of solid targets from a distant vantage. A laser is used to melt and vaporize a spot on the target. With sufficient flux, the spot temperature rises rapidly, and evaporation of surface materials occurs. The melted spot creates a high-temperature blackbody source, and ejected material creates a plume of surface materials in front of the spot. Molecular and atomic absorption occurs as the blackbody radiation passes through the ejected plume. Bulk molecular and atomic composition of the surface material is investigated by using a spectrometer to view the heated spot through the ejected plume. The proposed method is distinct from current stand-off approaches to composition analysis, such as Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), which atomizes and ionizes target material and observes emission spectra to determine bulk atomic composition. Initial simulations of absorption profiles with laser heating show great promise for Remote Laser-Evaporative Molecular Absorption (R-LEMA) spectroscopy. The method is well-suited for exploration of cold solar system targets—asteroids, comets, planets, moons—such as from a spacecraft orbiting the target. Spatial composition maps could be created by scanning the surface. Applying the beam to a single spot continuously produces a borehole or trench, and shallow subsurface composition profiling is possible. This paper describes system concepts for implementing the proposed method to probe the bulk molecular composition of an asteroid from an orbiting spacecraft, including laser array, photovoltaic power, heating and ablation, plume characteristics, absorption, spectrometry and data management.

  17. The effect of wind on the dispersal of a tropical small river plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Junpeng; Gong, Wenping; Shen, Jian

    2018-03-01

    Wanquan River is a small river located in Hainan, a tropical island in China. As the third largest river in Hainan, the river plume plays an important role in the regional terrigenous mass transport, coastal circulation, and the coral reef's ecosystem. Studies have shown that wind forcings significantly influence river plume dynamics. In this study, wind effects on the dispersal of the river plume and freshwater transport were examined numerically using a calibrated, unstructured, finite volume numerical model (FVCOM). Both wind direction and magnitude were determined to influence plume dispersal. Northeasterly (downwelling-favorable) winds drove freshwater down-shelf while southeasterly (onshore) winds drove water up-shelf (in the sense of Kelvin wave propagation), and were confined near the coast. Southwesterly (upwelling-favorable) and north-westerly (offshore) winds transport more freshwater offshore. The transport flux is decomposed into an advection, a vertical shear, and an oscillatory component. The advection flux dominates the freshwater transport in the coastal area and the vertical shear flux is dominant in the offshore area. For the upwelling-favorable wind, the freshwater transport becomes more controlled by the advection transport with an increase in wind stress, due to enhanced vertical mixing. The relative importance of wind forcing and buoyancy force was investigated. It was found that, when the Wedderburn number is larger than one, the plume was dominated by wind forcing, although the importance of wind varies in different parts of the plume. The water column stratification decreased as a whole under the prevailing southwesterly wind, with the exception of the up-shelf and offshore areas.

  18. Inferring the width of the upwelling region at mid-ocean ridges from the throttling effect of small-offset transforms: Implications for the dynamics of `normal' and plume-influenced mid- ocean ridges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Phipps Morgan, J.; Ranero, C. R.

    2006-12-01

    The fundamental question "How wide is the upwelling and melting region beneath mid-ocean ridges (MORs)?" remains a subject of ongoing debate after 4 decades of intensive study. The basic observational difficulty is that lateral melt migration has the potential to bring melt produced within a wide subaxial region to the ~2km- wide neovolcanic zone that has been observed to be the site of almost all oceanic crustal emplacement. Here we use an indirect approach to infer this width from the minimum length of the ridge-offsets that mark the limits of the `region of influence' of on-ridge plumes on the axial relief, axial morphology, and crustal thickness along the ridge — e.g. as seen along ridge segments influenced by the Galapagos and Iceland plumes, and at the terminations of fossil volcanic rifted margins and the paleo-Azores plume-ridge interaction. We adopt Vogt's [1972] hypothesis for along-ridge asthenospheric flow in a narrow vertical slot beneath the axis of plume- influenced `macro-segments'. We find that: (1) There is a threshold distance to the lateral offsets that bound plume-influenced macrosegments; all such `barrier offsets' are greater than ~30km, while smaller offsets do not appear to be a barrier to along-axis flow. (2) Recent seismic and E-M observations along the southern EPR are consistent with a narrow westward-dipping subaxial slot. (3) A similar pattern is seen in the often abrupt transitions between volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margins, which is discussed in a companion presentation by Ranero and Phipps Morgan (this meeting). (4) A ~30km width for the region of ridge upwelling and melting offers a simple conceptual explanation for the apparent ~30km threshold length for the existence of strike-slip transform faults and the occurrence of non-transform offsets at smaller ridge offset-distances. (5) It also offers a simple conceptual explanation for the largest scale of segmentation of axial relief seen at fast-spreading ridges; these 500-1000km `long wavelength undulations of the axis' (Macdonald et al., 1989) may be macro- segments sharing a single contiguous subaxial slot that is bent but not broken beneath non-transform offsets. (6) If asthenosphere consumption by plate-spreading is less than plume-supply into a macro-segment, then the shallow seafloor and excess gravitational spreading stresses associated with a plume-influenced ridge will lead to growth of the axial slot by ridge propagation, propagation that continues until the offset of the associated migrating shear zone becomes long enough to halt it. We think this is a promising conceptual framework with which to understand the dynamic similarities and differences between plume-influenced and `normal' mid-ocean ridges.

  19. Modeling the effects of the variability of temperature-related dynamic viscosity on the thermal-affected zone of groundwater heat-pump systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lo Russo, Stefano; Taddia, Glenda; Cerino Abdin, Elena

    2018-06-01

    Thermal perturbation in the subsurface produced in an open-loop groundwater heat pump (GWHP) plant is a complex transport phenomenon affected by several factors, including the exploited aquifer's hydrogeological and thermal characteristics, well construction features, and the temporal dynamics of the plant's groundwater abstraction and reinjection system. Hydraulic conductivity has a major influence on heat transport because plume propagation, which occurs primarily through advection, tends to degrade following conductive heat transport and convection within moving water. Hydraulic conductivity is, in turn, influenced by water reinjection because the dynamic viscosity of groundwater varies with temperature. This paper reports on a computational analysis conducted using FEFLOW software to quantify how the thermal-affected zone (TAZ) is influenced by the variation in dynamic viscosity due to reinjected groundwater in a well-doublet scheme. The modeling results demonstrate non-negligible groundwater dynamic-viscosity variation that affects thermal plume propagation in the aquifer. This influence on TAZ calculation was enhanced for aquifers with high intrinsic permeability and/or substantial temperature differences between abstracted and post-heat-pump-reinjected groundwater.

  20. Modeling the effects of the variability of temperature-related dynamic viscosity on the thermal-affected zone of groundwater heat-pump systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lo Russo, Stefano; Taddia, Glenda; Cerino Abdin, Elena

    2018-01-01

    Thermal perturbation in the subsurface produced in an open-loop groundwater heat pump (GWHP) plant is a complex transport phenomenon affected by several factors, including the exploited aquifer's hydrogeological and thermal characteristics, well construction features, and the temporal dynamics of the plant's groundwater abstraction and reinjection system. Hydraulic conductivity has a major influence on heat transport because plume propagation, which occurs primarily through advection, tends to degrade following conductive heat transport and convection within moving water. Hydraulic conductivity is, in turn, influenced by water reinjection because the dynamic viscosity of groundwater varies with temperature. This paper reports on a computational analysis conducted using FEFLOW software to quantify how the thermal-affected zone (TAZ) is influenced by the variation in dynamic viscosity due to reinjected groundwater in a well-doublet scheme. The modeling results demonstrate non-negligible groundwater dynamic-viscosity variation that affects thermal plume propagation in the aquifer. This influence on TAZ calculation was enhanced for aquifers with high intrinsic permeability and/or substantial temperature differences between abstracted and post-heat-pump-reinjected groundwater.

  1. Ejection of Metal Particles into Superfluid 4He by Laser Ablation.

    PubMed

    Buelna, Xavier; Freund, Adam; Gonzalez, Daniel; Popov, Evgeny; Eloranta, Jussi

    2016-10-05

    The dynamics following laser ablation of a metal target immersed in superfluid $^4$He is studied by time-resolved shadowgraph photography. The delayed ejection of hot micrometer-sized particles from the target surface into the liquid was indirectly observed by monitoring the formation and growth of gaseous bubbles around the particles. The experimentally determined particle average velocity distribution appears similar as previously measured in vacuum but exhibits a sharp cutoff at the speed of sound of the liquid. The propagation of the subsonic particles terminates in slightly elongated non-spherical gas bubbles residing near the target whereas faster particles reveal an unusual hydrodynamic response of the liquid. Based on the previously established semi-empirical model developed for macroscopic objects, the ejected transonic particles exhibit supercavitating flow to reduce their hydrodynamic drag. Supersonic particles appear to follow a completely different propagation mechanism as they leave discrete and semi-continuous bubble trails in the liquid. The relatively low number density of the observed non-spherical gas bubbles indicates that only large micron-sized particles are visualized in the experiments. Although the unique properties of superfluid helium allow a detailed characterization of these processes, the developed technique can be used to study the hydrodynamic response of any liquid to fast propagating objects on the micrometer-scale.

  2. The propagation of GPS signals through electrically charged plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Méndez Harper, J.; Steffes, P. G.; Dufek, J.

    2017-12-01

    Probing the interior dynamics of eruptive columns using electrostatic processes generated within the flows themselves has garnered much interest in the recent years. Indeed, large eruptions are often accompanied by brilliant displays of lightning, testifying to the high potentials that can be accumulated by a diverse set of electrification mechanisms. Unfortunately, lightning on its own cannot be used as a general remote sensing tool because not all volcanic eruptions produce spark discharges. As pointed out by McNutt and Williams, 2010, only 30-35% of volcanoes maintain lightning storms. The absence of lightning in two thirds of all eruptions indicates that most volcanoes produce flows with 1) inefficient or limited granular charging processes or 2) dynamics that do not promote the charge separation that sets up coherent electric fields needed for lightning. Yet, even if the prerequisites for spark discharges are not met, it is difficult to argue for plumes which are completely electrostatically neutral. The problems permeating passive electromagnetic sensing may be overcome through the use of active methods which involve interrogating charged volcanic plumes with electromagnetic radiation. The scattering of electromagnetic waves has been a common method to retrieve the physical properties of collections of particles, specifically those which cannot be accessed directly. By modifying the standard Mie formulation, Klavcka et al., 2007 showed that surface charge may influence the extinction properties of grains if such particles are much smaller than the wavelength of the incident radiation. Based on this model, we posit that the properties of charged clouds of particles can be readily assessed using robust, existing infrastructure-the Global Positioning System. In the present work, we numerically explore the manner in which electrostatic charge on particles affect the propagation of electromagnetic waves through volcanic plumes. We show that, for the range of complex dielectric constants measured in volcanic ash, the extinction efficiency of a charged particle is significantly larger than that associated with an equivalent neutral particle. Thus, this work represents the theoretical framework for a new method to explore charging in volcanic plumes.

  3. An advanced optical system for laser ablation propulsion in space

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bergstue, Grant; Fork, Richard; Reardon, Patrick

    2014-03-01

    We propose a novel space-based ablation driven propulsion engine concept utilizing transmitted energy in the form of a series of ultra-short optical pulses. Key differences are generating the pulses at the transmitting spacecraft and the safe delivery of that energy to the receiving spacecraft for propulsion. By expanding the beam diameter during transmission in space, the energy can propagate at relatively low intensity and then be refocused and redistributed to create an array of ablation sites at the receiver. The ablation array strategy allows greater control over flight dynamics and eases thermal management. Research efforts for this transmission and reception of ultra-short optical pulses include: (1) optical system design; (2) electrical system requirements; (3) thermal management; (4) structured energy transmission safety. Research has also been focused on developing an optical switch concept for the multiplexing of the ultra-short pulses. This optical switch strategy implements multiple reflectors polished into a rotating momentum wheel device to combine the pulses from different laser sources. The optical system design must minimize the thermal load on any one optical element. Initial specifications and modeling for the optical system are being produced using geometrical ray-tracing software to give a better understanding of the optical requirements. In regards to safety, we have advanced the retro-reflective beam locking strategy to include look-ahead capabilities for long propagation distances. Additional applications and missions utilizing multiplexed pulse transmission are also presented. Because the research is in early development, it provides an opportunity for new and valuable advances in the area of transmitted energy for propulsion as well as encourages joint international efforts. Researchers from different countries can cooperate in order to find constructive and safe uses of ordered pulse transmission for propulsion in future space-based missions.

  4. Transmission Geometry Laser Ablation into a Non-Contact Liquid Vortex Capture Probe for Mass Spectrometry Imaging

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Bhandari, Deepak; Lorenz, Matthias

    2014-01-01

    RATIONALE: Capture of material from a laser ablation plume into a continuous flow stream of solvent provides the means for uninterrupted sampling, transport and ionization of collected material for coupling with mass spectral analysis. Reported here is the use of vertically aligned transmission geometry laser ablation in combination with a new non-contact liquid vortex capture probe coupled with electrospray ionization for spot sampling and chemical imaging with mass spectrometry. Methods: A vertically aligned continuous flow liquid vortex capture probe was positioned directly underneath a sample surface in a transmission geometry laser ablation (355 nm, 10 Hz, 7 ns pulse width)more » setup to capture into solution the ablated material. The outlet of the vortex probe was coupled to the Turbo V ion source of an AB SCIEX TripleTOF 5600+ mass spectrometer. System operation and performance metrics were tested using inked patterns and thin tissue sections. Glass slides and slides designed especially for laser capture microdissection, viz., DIRECTOR slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides, were used as sample substrates. Results: The estimated capture efficiency of laser ablated material was 24%, which was enabled by the use of a probe with large liquid surface area (~ 2.8 mm2) and with gravity to help direct ablated material vertically down towards the probe. The swirling vortex action of the liquid surface potentially enhanced capture and dissolution of not only particulates, but also gaseous products of the laser ablation. The use of DIRECTOR slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides as sample substrates enabled effective ablation of a wide range of sample types (basic blue 7, polypropylene glycol, insulin and cyctochrome c) without photodamage using a UV laser. Imaging resolution of about 6 m was demonstrated for stamped ink on DIRECTOR slides based on the ability to distinguish features present both in the optical and in the chemical image. This imaging resolution was 20 times better than the previous best reported results with laser ablation/liquid sample capture mass spectrometry imaging. Using thin sections of brain tissue the chemical image of a selected lipid was obtained with an estimated imaging resolution of about 50 um. Conclusions: A vertically aligned, transmission geometry laser ablation liquid vortex capture probe, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system provides an effective means for spatially resolved spot sampling and imaging with mass spectrometry.« less

  5. Transmission geometry laser ablation into a non-contact liquid vortex capture probe for mass spectrometry imaging.

    PubMed

    Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Bhandari, Deepak; Lorenz, Matthias; Van Berkel, Gary J

    2014-08-15

    Capture of material from a laser ablation plume into a continuous flow stream of solvent provides the means for uninterrupted sampling, transport and ionization of collected material for coupling with mass spectral analysis. Reported here is the use of vertically aligned transmission geometry laser ablation in combination with a new non-contact liquid vortex capture probe coupled with electrospray ionization for spot sampling and chemical imaging with mass spectrometry. A vertically aligned continuous flow liquid vortex capture probe was positioned directly underneath a sample surface in a transmission geometry laser ablation (355 nm, 10 Hz, 7 ns pulse width) set up to capture into solution the ablated material. The outlet of the vortex probe was coupled to the Turbo V™ ion source of an AB SCIEX TripleTOF 5600+ mass spectrometer. System operation and performance metrics were tested using inked patterns and thin tissue sections. Glass slides and slides designed especially for laser capture microdissection, viz., DIRECTOR(®) slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides, were used as sample substrates. The estimated capture efficiency of laser-ablated material was 24%, which was enabled by the use of a probe with large liquid surface area (~2.8 mm(2) ) and with gravity to help direct ablated material vertically down towards the probe. The swirling vortex action of the liquid surface potentially enhanced capture and dissolution not only of particulates, but also of gaseous products of the laser ablation. The use of DIRECTOR(®) slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides as sample substrates enabled effective ablation of a wide range of sample types (basic blue 7, polypropylene glycol, insulin and cyctochrome c) without photodamage using a UV laser. Imaging resolution of about 6 µm was demonstrated for stamped ink on DIRECTOR(®) slides based on the ability to distinguish features present both in the optical and in the chemical image. This imaging resolution was 20 times better than the previous best reported results with laser ablation/liquid sample capture mass spectrometry imaging. Using thin sections of brain tissue the chemical image of a selected lipid was obtained with an estimated imaging resolution of about 50 µm. A vertically aligned, transmission geometry laser ablation liquid vortex capture probe, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system provides an effective means for spatially resolved spot sampling and imaging with mass spectrometry. Published in 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

  6. Treatment of Recurrent Nonparoxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Using Focal Impulse and Rotor Mapping (FIRM)-Guided Rotor Ablation: Early Recurrence and Long-Term Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Spitzer, Stefan Georg; Károlyi, László; Rämmler, Carola; Scharfe, Frank; Weinmann, Thomas; Zieschank, Mirko; Langbein, Anke

    2017-01-01

    A patient-tailored ablation approach focused on the elimination of both pulmonary vein triggers as well as substrate drivers may result in favorable outcomes in recurrent persistent AF patients. We evaluated the long-term outcomes of rotor ablation combined with conventional pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with recurrent nonparoxysmal AF. Fifty-eight consecutive patients underwent FIRM-guided rotor ablation followed by conventional PVI for the treatment of recurrent nonparoxysmal AF. A software algorithm was used to display rotational activity at rotor sites by creating propagation maps from unipolar electrograms recorded using a 64-electrode basket catheter. These rotor sites were targeted for ablation, followed by conventional PVI. All patients had nonparoxysmal AF (83% longstanding persistent) and a previously failed conventional ablation procedure. Stable rotors were identified in all patients (mean of 3.0 ± 1.6 per patient), with 55.2% having right atrial rotors and 96.6% left atrial rotors, respectively. Complications occurred in 5.2% of patients, none related to the FIRM procedure. The median follow-up was 12 months. At 6 and 12 months of follow-up, 73.2% and 76.9% of patients remained free from AF/AT, respectively. Excluding 2 patients who underwent a successful redo ablation procedure/electrical cardioversion, at 12 months of follow-up, 69.2% were free from any AF/AT and 73.1% were free from AF after a single FIRM-guided ablation procedure. A high degree of success was observed in this cohort of primarily longstanding persistent AF patients treated for recurrent AF with FIRM-guided rotor ablation. Prospective randomized controlled trials are needed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  7. Applications of Nanoparticle-Containing Plasmas for High-Order Harmonic Generation of Laser Radiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ganeev, Rashid A.

    The use of nanoparticles for efficient conversion of the wavelength of ultrashort laser toward the deep UV spectral range through harmonic generation is an attractive application of cluster-containing plasmas. Note that earlier observations of HHG in nanoparticles were limited by using the exotic gas clusters formed during fast cooling of atomic flow from the gas jets 1-4. One can assume the difficulties in definition of the structure of such clusters and the ratio between nanoparticles and atoms/ions in the gas flow. The characterization of gas phase cluster production was currently improved using the sophisticated techniques (e.g., a control of nanoparticle mass and spatial distribution, see the review 5). In the meantime, the plasma nanoparticle HHG has demonstrated some advantages over gas cluster HHG 6. The application of commercially available nanopowders allowed for precisely defining the sizes and structure of these clusters in the plume. The laser ablation technique made possible the predictable manipulation of plasma characteristics, which led to the creation of laser plumes containing mainly nanoparticles with known spatial structure. The latter allows the application of such plumes in nonlinear optics, X-ray emission of clusters, deposition of nanoparticles with fixed parameters on the substrates for semiconductor industry, production of nanostructured and nanocomposite films, etc.

  8. Galapagos Tectonics and Evolution (Invited)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hey, R. N.

    2010-12-01

    Galapagos is now considered one of the type-examples of hotspot-ridge interaction, although in the early years of plate tectonics it was generally thought that this interpretation was demonstrably wrong, with two influential groups insisting that non-hotspot models were required for this area. The key to understanding Galapagos tectonic evolution was the recognition that small ridge axis jumps toward the hotspot had occurred, producing complicated magnetic anomalies and asymmetric lithospheric accretion. My dissertation work, guided by Jason Morgan, showed that this simple modification to plate tectonic theory could resolve the seemingly compelling geometric arguments against the Cocos and Carnegie aseismic ridges being Galapagos hotspot tracks, and further that if Galapagos were a hotspot near Fernandina, fixed with respect to the Hawaii hotspot, there should be aseismic ridges on the Cocos and Nazca plates with the observed Cocos and Carnegie ridge geometry, both aseismic ridges forming when the hotspot was ridge-centered, but only the Carnegie ridge since the plate boundary migrated north of the hotspot. A great deal of subsequent research has shown that some areas are considerably more complicated than originally thought, but the following basic model still appears to hold. The Farallon plate split apart along the Grijalva scarp, possibly a preexisting Pacific-Farallon FZ that intersected the hotspot at this time (although alternative interpretations exist), probably in response to tensional stress caused by slab pull in different directions at the Mid-America and Peru-Chile trenches. This break-up allowed more orthogonal subduction of independent Cocos and Nazca plates beginning shortly after 25 Ma. The original Cocos-Nazca ridge trended E-NE, but soon reorganized into N-S spreading segments. The subsequent evolution involved substantial northward ridge migration and ridge jumps, mostly toward the Galapagos hotspot. Recent ridge jumps have occurred in systematic patterns as a result of new rifts almost always propagating “downhill” away from the hotspot, as shown by the characteristic patterns of pseudofaults, failed rifts (sometimes grabens, sometimes abandoned ridges), and zones of transferred lithosphere, with Galapagos 95.5W the type-example propagator. These propagators are probably driven by gravity sliding stresses due to the shallow lithosphere near the hotspot (although alternative interpretations exist). The origin of many propagation sequences appears to involve discrete southward jumps forming new segments near the hotspot. The observed petrological and geochemical variations are interpreted as consistent with mantle plume and propagating rift effects. However, the speculation of Schilling et al. (1982) that, in analogy to Iceland (the other type-example of hotspot-ridge interaction), Galapagos might be a pulsing plume, and that plume pulses might drive the Galapagos propagators, hasn’t received much support. It is interesting that the Galapagos and Iceland hotspots have produced such apparently different effects along the ridge segments they so obviously strongly influence.

  9. Negative charge emission due to excimer laser bombardment of sodium trisilicate glass

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Langford, S.C.; Jensen, L.C.; Dickinson, J.T.

    We describe measurements of negative charge emission accompanying irradiation of sodium trisilicate glass (Na{sub 2}O{center dot}3SiO{sub 2}) with 248-nm excimer laser light at fluences on the order of 2 J/cm{sup 2} per pulse, i.e., at the threshold for ablative etching of the glass surface. The negative charge emission consists of a very prompt photoelectron burst coincident with the laser pulse, followed by a much slower plume of electrons and negative ions traveling with a high density cloud of positive ions, previously identified as primarily Na{sup +}. Using combinations of {bold E} and {bold B} fields in conjunction with time-of-flight methods,more » the negative ions were successfully separated from the plume and tentatively identified as O{sup {minus}}, Si{sup {minus}}, NaO{sup {minus}}, and perhaps NaSi{sup {minus}}. These negative species are probably formed by gas phase collisions in the near-surface region which result in electron attachment.« less

  10. Self-mixing interferometry as a diagnostics tool for plasma characteristics in laser microdrilling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Colombo, Paolo; Demir, Ali Gökhan; Norgia, Michele; Previtali, Barbara

    2017-05-01

    In this work, self-mixing interferometry (SMI) was used to monitor the optical path difference induced by the ablation plasma and plume. The paper develops the analytical relationships to explain the fringe appearance in the SMI during laser microdrilling. The monitoring principle was tested under a large experimental campaign of laser microdrilling on TiAlN ceramic coating with a low-ns green fibre laser. Key process parameters namely pulse energy, number and repetition rate were varied. The effect of side gas on the SMI signal characteristic was analysed. Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was used to identify the plasma temperature and electron number density. The SMI signals were correlated to the plume size and its evolution as a function of process parameters, as well as electron number density estimated by spectroscopy. In addition to proving the validity of the proposed new method, the results show insights to the micromachining of the ceramic material with low ns pulses.

  11. Modeling and Validation of Microwave Ablations with Internal Vaporization

    PubMed Central

    Chiang, Jason; Birla, Sohan; Bedoya, Mariajose; Jones, David; Subbiah, Jeyam; Brace, Christopher L.

    2014-01-01

    Numerical simulation is increasingly being utilized for computer-aided design of treatment devices, analysis of ablation growth, and clinical treatment planning. Simulation models to date have incorporated electromagnetic wave propagation and heat conduction, but not other relevant physics such as water vaporization and mass transfer. Such physical changes are particularly noteworthy during the intense heat generation associated with microwave heating. In this work, a numerical model was created that integrates microwave heating with water vapor generation and transport by using porous media assumptions in the tissue domain. The heating physics of the water vapor model was validated through temperature measurements taken at locations 5, 10 and 20 mm away from the heating zone of the microwave antenna in homogenized ex vivo bovine liver setup. Cross-sectional area of water vapor transport was validated through intra-procedural computed tomography (CT) during microwave ablations in homogenized ex vivo bovine liver. Iso-density contours from CT images were compared to vapor concentration contours from the numerical model at intermittent time points using the Jaccard Index. In general, there was an improving correlation in ablation size dimensions as the ablation procedure proceeded, with a Jaccard Index of 0.27, 0.49, 0.61, 0.67 and 0.69 at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 minutes. This study demonstrates the feasibility and validity of incorporating water vapor concentration into thermal ablation simulations and validating such models experimentally. PMID:25330481

  12. Evolution of energy deposition during glass cutting with pulsed femtosecond laser radiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kalupka, C.; Großmann, D.; Reininghaus, M.

    2017-05-01

    We report on investigations of the energy deposition in the volume of thin glass during an ablation cutting process with pulsed femtosecond laser radiation by time-resolved pump-probe shadowgraphy. For a single laser pulse, the temporal evolution of the transient electronic excitation of the glass volume is imaged up to 10 ps after initial excitation. For an increasing number of laser pulses, the spatial excitation of the glass volume significantly changes compared to single pulse irradiation. Sharp spikes are observed, which reduce the transmission of the illuminating probe pulse. This indicates local maxima of the absorption and, therefore, energy deposition of the pump pulse energy in the glass volume. Furthermore, for an increasing number of pulses, different shapes of the surface ablation crater are observed. To study the correlation between the shape of the surface ablation crater and the energy deposition in the glass volume, simulations of the spatial intensity distribution of the pump pulse are executed by means of linear beam propagation method. We show that the transient excitation spikes observed by pump-probe shadowgraphy can be explained by refraction and diffraction of the laser radiation at the surface ablation crater. Our results provide an experimental validation for the physical reason of an ablation stop for an ablation cutting process. Moreover, the simulations allow for the prediction of damage inside the glass volume.

  13. The influence of the focus position on laser machining and laser micro-structuring monocrystalline diamond surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Mingtao; Guo, Bing; Zhao, Qingliang; Fan, Rongwei; Dong, Zhiwei; Yu, Xin

    2018-06-01

    Micro-structured surface on diamond is widely used in microelectronics, optical elements, MEMS and NEMS components, ultra-precision machining tools, etc. The efficient micro-structuring of diamond material is still a challenging task. In this article, the influence of the focus position on laser machining and laser micro-structuring monocrystalline diamond surface were researched. At the beginning, the ablation threshold and its incubation effect of monocrystalline diamond were determined and discussed. As the accumulated laser pulses ranged from 40 to 5000, the laser ablation threshold decreased from 1.48 J/cm2 to 0.97 J/cm2. Subsequently, the variation of the ablation width and ablation depth in laser machining were studied. With enough pulse energy, the ablation width mainly depended on the laser propagation attributes while the ablation depth was a complex function of the focus position. Raman analysis was used to detect the variation of the laser machined diamond surface after the laser machining experiments. Graphite formation was discovered on the machined diamond surface and graphitization was enhanced after the defocusing quantity exceeded 45 μm. At last, several micro-structured surfaces were successfully fabricated on diamond surface with the defined micro-structure patterns and structuring ratios just by adjusting the defocusing quantity. The experimental structuring ratio was consistent with the theoretical analysis.

  14. Constraining the Enceladus Plume and Understanding Its Physics via Numerical Simulation from Underground Source to Infinity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yeoh, S. K.; Li, Z.; Goldstein, D. B.; Varghese, P. L.; Trafton, L. M.; Levin, D. A.

    2014-12-01

    The Enceladus ice/vapor plume not only accounts for the various features observed in the Saturnian system, such as the E-ring, the narrow neutral H2O torus, and Enceladus' own bright albedo, but also raises exciting new possibilities, including the existence of liquid water on Enceladus. Therefore, understanding the plume and its physics is important. Here we assume that the plume arises from flow expansion within multiple narrow subsurface cracks connected to reservoirs of liquid water underground, and simulate this expanding flow from the underground reservoir out to several Enceladus radii where Cassini data are available for comparison. The direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method is used to simulate the subsurface and near-field collisional regions and a free-molecular model is used to propagate the plume out into the far-field. We include the following physical processes in our simulations: the flow interaction with the crack walls, grain condensation from the vapor phase, non-equilibrium effects (e.g. freezing of molecular internal energy modes), the interaction between the vapor and the ice grains, the gravitational fields of Enceladus and Saturn, and Coriolis and centrifugal forces (due to motion in non-inertial reference frame). The end result is a plume model that includes the relevant physics of the flow from the underground source out to where Cassini measurements are taken. We have made certain assumptions about the channel geometry and reservoir conditions. The model is constrained using various available Cassini data (particularly those of INMS, CDA and UVIS) to understand the plume physics as well as estimate the vapor and grain production rates and its temporal variability.

  15. Femtosecond laser-ablated Fresnel zone plate fiber probe and sensing applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tan, Xiaoling; Geng, Youfu; Chen, Yan; Li, Shiguo; Wang, Xinzhong

    2018-02-01

    We investigate the Fresnel zone plate (FZP) inscribed on multimode fiber endface using femtosecond laser ablation and its application in sensing. The mode transmission through fiber tips with FZP is investigated both by the beam propagation method theoretically and by measuring the beam images with a charge-coupled device camera experimentally, which show a good agreement. Such devices are tested for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) using the aqueous solution of rhodamine 6G under a Raman spectroscopy. The experimental results demonstrate that the SERS signal is enhanced benefiting from focal ability of FZP, which is a promising method for the particular biochemical spectra sensing applications.

  16. Instability growth seeded by ablator material inhomogeneity in indirect drive implosions on the National Ignition Facility

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haan, Steven; Ali, S. J.; Baxamusa, S. H.; Celliers, P. M.; Clark, D. S.; Kritcher, A. L.; Nikroo, A.; Stadermann, M.; Biener, J.; Wallace, R.; Smalyuk, V.; Robey, H.; Weber, C. R.; Huang, H.; Reynolds, H.; Carlson, L.; Rice, N.; Kline, J. L.; Simakov, A. N.; Yi, S. A.

    2017-10-01

    NIF indirect drive ablators (CH, Be, and high density carbon HDC) show hydrodynamic irregularity beyond that expected from surface features. Characterizing these seeds and estimating their growth is important in projecting performance. The resulting modulations can be measured in x-ray backlit implosions on NIF called Hydro Growth Radiography, and on Omega with 2D velocimetry. This presentation summarizes the experiments for the three ablators, along with simulations thereof and projections of the significance for NIF. For CH, dominant seeds are photo-induced oxidation, which might be mitigated with alumina coating. For Be, perturbations result from Ar and O contamination. For HDC, perturbations are seeded by shock propagation around melt, depend on shock strength, and may constrain the adiabat of future HDC implosions. Work performed under the auspices of the U.S. D.O.E. by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  17. Global Magnetospheric Response to an Interplanetary Shock: THEMIS Observations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhang, Hui; Sibeck, David G.; Zong, Q.-G.; McFadden, James P.; Larson, Davin; Glassmeier, K.-H.; Angelopoulos, V.

    2011-01-01

    We investigate the global response of geospace plasma environment to an interplanetary shock at approx. 0224 UT on May 28, 2008 from multiple THEMIS spacecraft observations in the magnetosheath (THEMIS B and C) and the mid-afternoon (THEMIS A) and dusk magnetosphere (THEMIS D and E). The interaction of the transmitted interplanetary shock with the magnetosphere has global effects. Consequently, it can affect geospace plasma significantly. After interacting with the bow shock, the interplanetary shock transmitted a fast shock and a discontinuity which propagated through the magnetosheath toward the Earth at speeds of 300 km/s and 137 km/s respectively. THEMIS A observations indicate that the plasmaspheric plume changed significantly by the interplanetary shock impact. The plasmaspheric plume density increased rapidly from 10 to 100/ cubic cm in 4 min and the ion distribution changed from isotropic to strongly anisotropic distribution. Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves observed by THEMIS A are most likely excited by the anisotropic ion distributions caused by the interplanetary shock impact. To our best knowledge, this is the first direct observation of the plasmaspheric plume response to an interplanetary shock's impact. THEMIS A, but not D or E, observed a plasmaspheric plume in the dayside magnetosphere. Multiple spacecraft observations indicate that the dawn-side edge of the plasmaspheric plume was located between THEMIS A and D (or E).

  18. Qualitative tissue differentiation by analysing the intensity ratios of atomic emission lines using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS): prospects for a feedback mechanism for surgical laser systems.

    PubMed

    Kanawade, Rajesh; Mahari, Fanuel; Klämpfl, Florian; Rohde, Maximilian; Knipfer, Christian; Tangermann-Gerk, Katja; Adler, Werner; Schmidt, Michael; Stelzle, Florian

    2015-01-01

    The research work presented in this paper focuses on qualitative tissue differentiation by monitoring the intensity ratios of atomic emissions using 'Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy' (LIBS) on the plasma plume created during laser tissue ablation. The background of this study is to establish a real time feedback control mechanism for clinical laser surgery systems during the laser ablation process. Ex-vivo domestic pig tissue samples (muscle, fat, nerve and skin) were used in this experiment. Atomic emission intensity ratios were analyzed to find a characteristic spectral line for each tissue. The results showed characteristic elemental emission intensity ratios for the respective tissues. The spectral lines and intensity ratios of these specific elements varied among the different tissue types. The main goal of this study is to qualitatively and precisely identify different tissue types for tissue specific laser surgery. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Biophotonics published by WILEY-VCH Verlag.

  19. Thermal Analysis of the Fastrac Chamber/Nozzle

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davis, Darrell

    2001-01-01

    This paper will describe the thermal analysis techniques used to predict temperatures in the film-cooled ablative rocket nozzle used on the Fastrac 60K rocket engine. A model was developed that predicts char and pyrolysis depths, liner thermal gradients, and temperatures of the bondline between the overwrap and liner. Correlation of the model was accomplished by thermal analog tests performed at Southern Research, and specially instrumented hot fire tests at the Marshall Space Flight Center. Infrared thermography was instrumental in defining nozzle hot wall surface temperatures. In-depth and outboard thermocouple data was used to correlate the kinetic decomposition routine used to predict char and pyrolysis depths. These depths were anchored with measured char and pyrolysis depths from cross-sectioned hot-fire nozzles. For the X-34 flight analysis, the model includes the ablative Thermal Protection System (TPS) material that protects the overwrap from the recirculating plume. Results from model correlation, hot-fire testing, and flight predictions will be discussed.

  20. Thermal Analysis of the MC-1 Chamber/Nozzle

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davis, Darrell W.; Phelps, Lisa H. (Technical Monitor)

    2001-01-01

    This paper will describe the thermal analysis techniques used to predict temperatures in the film-cooled ablative rocket nozzle used on the MC-1 60K rocket engine. A model was developed that predicts char and pyrolysis depths, liner thermal gradients, and temperatures of the bondline between the overwrap and liner. Correlation of the model was accomplished by thermal analog tests performed at Southern Research, and specially instrumented hot fire tests at the Marshall Space Flight Center. Infrared thermography was instrumental in defining nozzle hot wall surface temperatures. In-depth and outboard thermocouple data was used to correlate the kinetic decomposition routine used to predict char and pyrolysis depths. These depths were anchored with measured char and pyrolysis depths from cross-sectioned hot-fire nozzles. For the X-34 flight analysis, the model includes the ablative Thermal Protection System (TPS) material that protects the overwrap from the recirculating plume. Results from model correlation, hot-fire testing, and flight predictions will be discussed.

  1. Inorganic fullerene-like molybdenum selenide with good biocompatibility synthesized by laser ablation in liquids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Xiaoju; Tian, Xiumei; Chen, Tongming; Zeng, Ao; Yang, Guowei

    2018-07-01

    The fabrication of inorganic fullerene-like nanoparticles (IFNPs) is an attractive idea due to their unique structures and various potential applications. To date, IFNPs have been made from numerous compounds with layered two-dimensional structures, based on various synthetic methods. Here we have demonstrated for the first time that inorganic fullerene-like molybdenum selenide nanoparticles (MoSe2 IFNPs) can be synthesized by laser ablating a molybdenum selenide target in 30 vol % ethanol/water mixture at ambient temperature and pressure. The formation mechanism was proposed to elucidate the production of MoSe2 IFNPs in the process of laser ablation in liquids (LAL). The appropriate solvent facilitates the condensation of the plasma plume created by LAL to planar MoSe2. Then, laser-induced high temperature and high pressure lead to the formation of a vacancy in the planar MoSe2, causing the generation of nucleation and growth of the MoSe2 IFNPs. In addition, a CCK-8 (cell counting kit-8) assay and a cell viability assay were performed to examine the cytotoxic behavior and the effect on cell viability of MoSe2 IFNPs. The results show that MoSe2 IFNPs are reasonably nontoxic and biocompatible with the given cells, showing they have significant potential in biomedical applications.

  2. Explosive change in crater properties during high power nanosecond laser ablation of silicon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoo, J. H.; Jeong, S. H.; Greif, R.; Russo, R. E.

    2000-08-01

    Mass removed from single crystal silicon samples by high irradiance (1×109 to 1×1011W/cm2) single pulse laser ablation was studied by measuring the resulting crater morphology with a white light interferometric microscope. The craters show a strong nonlinear change in both the volume and depth when the laser irradiance is less than or greater than ≈2.2×1010W/cm2. Time-resolved shadowgraph images of the ablated silicon plume were obtained over this irradiance range. The images show that the increase in crater volume and depth at the threshold of 2.2×1010W/cm2 is accompanied by large size droplets leaving the silicon surface, with a time delay ˜300 ns. A numerical model was used to estimate the thickness of the layer heated to approximately the critical temperature. The model includes transformation of liquid metal into liquid dielectric near the critical state (i.e., induced transparency). In this case, the estimated thickness of the superheated layer at a delay time of 200-300 ns shows a close agreement with measured crater depths. Induced transparency is demonstrated to play an important role in the formation of a deep superheated liquid layer, with subsequent explosive boiling responsible for large-particulate ejection.

  3. Particle dynamics during nanoparticle synthesis by laser ablation in a background gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakata, Yoshiki; Muramoto, Junichi; Okada, Tatsuo; Maeda, Mitsuo

    2002-02-01

    Particle dynamics during Si nanoparticle synthesis in a laser-ablation plume in different background gases were investigated by laser-spectroscopic imaging techniques. Two-dimensional laser induced fluorescence and ultraviolet Rayleigh scattering techniques were used to visualize the spatial distribution of the Si atoms and nanoparticles grown, respectively. We have developed a visualization technique called re-decomposition laser-induced fluorescence to observe small nanoparticles (hereafter called clusters) which are difficult to observe by the conventional imaging techniques. In this article, the whole process of nanoparticle synthesis in different background gases of He, Ne, Ar, N2 and O2 was investigated by these techniques. In He, Ne, Ar and N2 background gases at 10 Torr, the clustering of the Si atoms started 200, 250, 300 and 800 μs after ablation, respectively. The growth rate of the clusters in He background gas was much larger than that in the other gases. The spatial distributions of the Si nanoparticles were mushroom like in He, N2 and O2, and column like in Ne and Ar. It is thought that the difference in distribution was caused by differences in the flow characteristics of the background gases, which would imply that the viscosity of the background gas is one of the main governing parameters.

  4. Inorganic fullerene-like molybdenum selenide with good biocompatibility synthesized by laser ablation in liquids.

    PubMed

    Wu, Xiaoju; Tian, Xiumei; Chen, Tongming; Zeng, Ao; Yang, Guowei

    2018-07-20

    The fabrication of inorganic fullerene-like nanoparticles (IFNPs) is an attractive idea due to their unique structures and various potential applications. To date, IFNPs have been made from numerous compounds with layered two-dimensional structures, based on various synthetic methods. Here we have demonstrated for the first time that inorganic fullerene-like molybdenum selenide nanoparticles (MoSe 2 IFNPs) can be synthesized by laser ablating a molybdenum selenide target in 30 vol % ethanol/water mixture at ambient temperature and pressure. The formation mechanism was proposed to elucidate the production of MoSe 2 IFNPs in the process of laser ablation in liquids (LAL). The appropriate solvent facilitates the condensation of the plasma plume created by LAL to planar MoSe 2 . Then, laser-induced high temperature and high pressure lead to the formation of a vacancy in the planar MoSe 2 , causing the generation of nucleation and growth of the MoSe 2 IFNPs. In addition, a CCK-8 (cell counting kit-8) assay and a cell viability assay were performed to examine the cytotoxic behavior and the effect on cell viability of MoSe 2 IFNPs. The results show that MoSe 2 IFNPs are reasonably nontoxic and biocompatible with the given cells, showing they have significant potential in biomedical applications.

  5. Observations and modeling of EMIC wave properties in the presence of multiple ion species as function of magnetic local time

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Justin H.; Angelopoulos, Vassilis

    2014-11-01

    Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave generation and propagation in Earth's magnetosphere depend on readily measurable hot (a few to tens of keV) plasma sheet ions, elusive plasmaspheric or ionospheric cold (sub-eV to a few eV) ions, and partially heated warm ions (tens to hundreds of eV). Previous work has assumed all low-energy ions are cold and not considered possible effects of warm ions. Using measurements by multiple Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms spacecraft, we analyze four typical EMIC wave events in the four magnetic local time sectors and consider the properties of both cold and warm ions supplied from previous statistical studies to interpret the wave observations using linear theory. As expected, we find that dusk EMIC waves grow due to the presence of drifting hot anisotropic protons and cold plasmaspheric ions with a dominant cold proton component. Near midnight, EMIC waves are less common because warm heavy ions that suppress wave growth are more abundant there. The waves can grow when cold, plume-like density enhancements are present, however. Dawn EMIC waves, known for their peculiar properties, are generated away from the equator and change polarization during propagation through the warm plasma cloak. Noon EMIC waves can also be generated nonlocally and their properties modified during propagation by a plasmaspheric plume combined with low-energy ions from solar and terrestrial sources. Accounting for multiple ion species, measured wave dispersion, and propagation characteristics can explain previously elusive EMIC wave properties and are therefore important for future studies of EMIC wave effects on energetic particle depletion.

  6. Experimental investigation of large-scale vortices in a freely spreading gravity current

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yuan, Yeping; Horner-Devine, Alexander R.

    2017-10-01

    A series of laboratory experiments are presented to compare the dynamics of constant-source buoyant gravity currents propagating into laterally confined (channelized) and unconfined (spreading) environments. The plan-form structure of the spreading current and the vertical density and velocity structures on the interface are quantified using the optical thickness method and a combined particle image velocimetry and planar laser-induced fluorescence method, respectively. With lateral boundaries, the buoyant current thickness is approximately constant and Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities are generated within the shear layer. The buoyant current structure is significantly different in the spreading case. As the current spreads laterally, nonlinear large-scale vortex structures are observed at the interface, which maintain a coherent shape as they propagate away from the source. These structures are continuously generated near the river mouth, have amplitudes close to the buoyant layer thickness, and propagate offshore at speeds approximately equal to the internal wave speed. The observed depth and propagation speed of the instabilities match well with the fastest growing mode predicted by linear stability analysis, but with a shorter wavelength. The spreading flows have much higher vorticity, which is aggregated within the large-scale structures. Secondary instabilities are generated on the leading edge of the braids between the large-scale vortex structures and ultimately break and mix on the lee side of the structures. Analysis of the vortex dynamics shows that lateral stretching intensifies the vorticity in the spreading currents, contributing to higher vorticity within the large-scale structures in the buoyant plume. The large-scale instabilities and vortex structures observed in the present study provide new insights into the origin of internal frontal structures frequently observed in coastal river plumes.

  7. Model depiction of the atmospheric flows of radioactive cesium emitted from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakajima, Teruyuki; Misawa, Shota; Morino, Yu; Tsuruta, Haruo; Goto, Daisuke; Uchida, Junya; Takemura, Toshihiko; Ohara, Toshimasa; Oura, Yasuji; Ebihara, Mitsuru; Satoh, Masaki

    2017-12-01

    In this study, a new method is proposed for the depiction of the atmospheric transportation of the 137Cs emitted from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident. This method employs a combination of the results of two aerosol model ensembles and the hourly observed atmospheric 137Cs concentration at surface level during 14-23 March 2011 at 90 sites in the suspended particulate matter monitoring network. The new method elucidates accurate transport routes and the distribution of the surface-level atmospheric 137Cs relevant to eight plume events that were previously identified. The model ensemble simulates the main features of the observed distribution of surface-level atmospheric 137Cs. However, significant differences were found in some cases, and this suggests the need to improve the modeling of the emission scenario, plume height, wet deposition process, and plume propagation in the Abukuma Mountain region. The contributions of these error sources differ in the early and dissipating phases of each event, depending on the meteorological conditions.

  8. Remote sensing the plasmasphere, plasmapause, plumes and other features using ground-based magnetometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Menk, Frederick; Kale, Zoë; Sciffer, Murray; Robinson, Peter; Waters, Colin; Grew, Russell; Clilverd, Mark; Mann, Ian

    2014-11-01

    The plasmapause is a highly dynamic boundary between different magnetospheric particle populations and convection regimes. Some of the most important space weather processes involve wave-particle interactions in this region, but wave properties may also be used to remote sense the plasmasphere and plasmapause, contributing to plasmasphere models. This paper discusses the use of existing ground magnetometer arrays for such remote sensing. Using case studies we illustrate measurement of plasmapause location, shape and movement during storms; refilling of flux tubes within and outside the plasmasphere; storm-time increase in heavy ion concentration near the plasmapause; and detection and mapping of density irregularities near the plasmapause, including drainage plumes, biteouts and bulges. We also use a 2D MHD model of wave propagation through the magnetosphere, incorporating a realistic ionosphere boundary and Alfvén speed profile, to simulate ground array observations of power and cross-phase spectra, hence confirming the signatures of plumes and other density structures.

  9. Infrared thermography and thermocouple mapping of radiofrequency renal ablation to assess treatment adequacy and ablation margins.

    PubMed

    Ogan, Kenneth; Roberts, William W; Wilhelm, David M; Bonnell, Leonard; Leiner, Dennis; Lindberg, Guy; Kavoussi, Louis R; Cadeddu, Jeffrey A

    2003-07-01

    The primary disadvantage of renal tumor RF ablation is the inability to monitor the intraoperative propagation of the RF lesion with real-time imaging. We sought to assess whether adequately lethal temperatures are obtained at the margins of the intended ablation zone using laparoscopic thermography to monitor radiofrequency (RF) lesions in real time, thermocouple measurements, and histopathologic evaluation. Renal RF lesions were created under direct laparoscopic vision in the upper (1 cm diameter) and lower (2 cm) poles of the right kidney in 5 female pigs. The RF lesions were produced with the RITA generator and probe, set at 105 degrees C for 5-minute ablations. During RF treatment, a laparoscopic infrared (IR) camera measured the surface parenchymal temperatures, as did multiple thermocouples. The pigs were then either immediately killed (n = 3) or allowed to live for 2 weeks (n = 2). The kidneys were removed to correlate the temperature measurements with histologic analysis of the ablated lesion. Using a threshold temperature of greater than 70 degrees C for visual "temperature" color change, the IR camera identified the region of pathologic necrosis of the renal parenchyma during RF ablation. Thermocouple measurements demonstrated that the temperatures at the intended ablation radius reached 77.5 degrees C at the renal surface and 83.7 degrees C centrally, and temperatures 5 mm beyond the set radius reached 52.6 degrees C at the surface and 47.7 degrees C centrally. The average diameter of the gross lesion on the surface of the kidney measured 17.1 mm and 22.4 mm for 1-cm and 2-cm ablations, respectively. These surface measurements correlated with an average diameter of 16.1 mm and 15.9 mm (1-cm and 2-cm ablations, respectively) as measured with the IR camera. All cells within these ablation zones were nonviable by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide diaphorase analysis. The average depth of the lesions measured 19 mm (1-cm ablation) and 25 mm (2-cm ablation) on gross histologic examination. The laparoscopic IR camera is able to monitor the surface renal temperatures during RF treatment. Thermocouple measurements during RF ablation confirmed the thermographic findings and demonstrated that lethal temperatures at the margin of the intended treatment zone are routinely obtained and that a rapid decline in temperature occurs beyond the predicted ablation margin.

  10. Geodynamics Of The Yellowstone Hotspot From S Eismic And Gps Imaging: Progress Report

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smith, R. B.; Humphreys, E.; Dueker, K.; Tackley, P.; Waite, G.; Schutt, D.; Hernland, J.

    An integrated study of the Yellowstone hotspot and it's interaction with the continental lithosphere is focused on understanding the evolution and effects of plume interaction with the continental lithosphere. Our basic goal is to develop a unified dynamic model of the Yellowstone hotspot and to resolve the question of whether there it has a deep mantle plume source. The 800-km-track of the 16Myr. Yellowstone-Snake River Plain (YSRP) volcanic system extends NE across the western U.S. with associated active seismicity and faulting. We will discuss the initial results of seismic tomography experiments: 1) an 80-instrument, NW-SE trending 500 km x 400 km broadband and high frequency array centered over Yellowstone planned to resolve structural geometry and composition of a presumed mantle plume and to record presumed plume-penetrating rays to ~600 km depth; and 2) an array of ~350 seismic stations of regional seismic networks focusing on the magmatically modified crust using local earthquake and controlled sources. Crustal deformation was assessed by 160-station campaign GPS surveys (1987-2000) complimented by a 15-station permanent GPS network planned to resolve the velocity vectors around the hotspot needed for kinematic and dynamic modeling. Initial tomographic results reveal a low-velocity, upper-crustal body beneath Yellowstone, interpreted to be the source of its active silicic volcanism; conversely, a high-velocity mid crustal body extends along the cooled hotspot track is interpreted to an Fe-rich residuum of the rhyolitic-basaltic volcanism. Teleseismic images within the Yellowstone swell that, combined with isostatic considerations, suggests that convective overturn has left partially molten mantle beneath the hotspot track to depths of about 180 km, and depleted residuum beneath the swell adjacent to the hotspot track. Also the fast axis of mantle anisotropy is oriented in the direction of plate transport; this differs from the anisotropy away from the swell. We can account for the current observations with either a plume or a non -plume source. Initial GPS determinations suggest NE-SW extension of ~2 mm/yr of the across the SRP that is notably slower than the 4-5 mm/yr of NE extension across Yellowstone. Possible mechanisms for the aseismic extension of the SRP include dike intrusion or elastic deformation of a homogeneous, high -strength block. Initial 3D finite element models of GPS and L. Quat. fault slip data reveal s clockwise opening of the YSRP that rotates to general EW extension south of the hotspot track. On a larger scale, 3D numerical simulations of thermal, compositional, and melt buoyancy -driven small-scale (ca. 100 km) convection beneaththe western U.S. indicates a tendency for melting to form lineations aligned with the plate (and extension) direction, although these lineations do not display straightforward hotspot-like propagation. One speculative augment for systematic volcanic propagation of the YSRP and observed seismic images and deformation fields is the interaction between an actively melting asthenosphere, the depleted residuum that it creates, and the upper mantle plate shear that "drags" the depleted residuum downstream of an active melt event for propagating melt instabilities.

  11. TIME EVOLUTION OF PLASMA PARAMETERS DURING THE RISE OF A SOLAR PROMINENCE INSTABILITY

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Orozco Suárez, D.; Asensio Ramos, A.; Trujillo Bueno, J.

    We present high-spatial resolution spectropolarimetric observations of a quiescent hedgerow prominence taken in the He I 1083.0 nm triplet. The observation consisted of a time series in sit-and-stare mode of ∼36 minutes duration. The spectrograph's slit crossed the prominence body and we recorded the time evolution of individual vertical threads. Eventually, we observed the development of a dark Rayleigh-Taylor plume that propagated upward with a velocity, projected onto the plane of the sky, of 17 km s{sup –1}. Interestingly, the plume apex collided with the prominence threads pushing them aside. We inferred Doppler shifts, Doppler widths, and magnetic field strength variations bymore » interpreting the He I Stokes profiles with the HAZEL code. The Doppler shifts show that clusters of threads move coherently while individual threads have oscillatory patterns. Regarding the plume we found strong redshifts (∼9-12 km s{sup –1}) and large Doppler widths (∼10 km s{sup –1}) at the plume apex when it passed through the prominence body and before it disintegrated. We associate the redshifts with perspective effects while the Doppler widths are more likely due to an increase in the local temperature. No local variations of the magnetic field strength associated with the passage of the plume were found; this leads us to conclude that the plumes are no more magnetized than the surroundings. Finally, we found that some of the threads' oscillations are locally damped, what allowed us to apply prominence seismology techniques to infer additional prominence physical parameters.« less

  12. Modeling of Interactions of Ablated Plumes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-02-01

    code was tested and verified using the Sedov-Taylor explosion problem 24. The grid 300 x 300 is used so as the single code run takes 30 minutes in a...still air and b) temperature contours along with the vector field for 20 km at t-10ps. 9 Final report AFOSR FA9550-07-1-0457 February 2008 0960014 09 C ow...ia Figue9FrainoIeodr shok wves a-)pesr otus0 )~22,bt4F,adetJ n d) het trnsferat te TPSw9PS 00 As 10 04 J. ’ Figure 9:Formation of secondary shock

  13. Plasma ignition thresholds in UV laser ablation plumes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clarke, P.; Dyer, P. E.; Key, P. H.; Snelling, H. V.

    Ultraviolet (UV) laser thresholds for plasma ignition on solid targets predicted from electron-neutral collisional heating are generally much higher than those observed experimentally. This inconsistency was reconciled by Rosen, et al. [2], who showed that excited-state photoionization played a key role in long-pulse UV laser breakdown. Here we develop a related model but with emphasis on pulses of 10 ns duration. Experimental results are also reported for titanium, copper, silicon, and ferulic acid targets in vacuum, irradiated with combinations of the XeF, KrF, and ArF lasers for comparison with predictions.

  14. Improved heating efficiency with High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound using a new ultrasound source excitation.

    PubMed

    Bigelow, Timothy A

    2009-01-01

    High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is quickly becoming one of the best methods to thermally ablate tissue noninvasively. Unlike RF or Laser ablation, the tissue can be destroyed without inserting any probes into the body minimizing the risk of secondary complications such as infections. In this study, the heating efficiency of HIFU sources is improved by altering the excitation of the ultrasound source to take advantage of nonlinear propagation. For ultrasound, the phase velocity of the ultrasound wave depends on the amplitude of the wave resulting in the generation of higher harmonics. These higher harmonics are more efficiently converted into heat in the body due to the frequency dependence of the ultrasound absorption in tissue. In our study, the generation of the higher harmonics by nonlinear propagation is enhanced by transmitting an ultrasound wave with both the fundamental and a higher harmonic component included. Computer simulations demonstrated up to a 300% increase in temperature increase compared to transmitting at only the fundamental for the same acoustic power transmitted by the source.

  15. First-principles simulation of the optical response of bulk and thin-film α-quartz irradiated with an ultrashort intense laser pulse

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lee, Kyung-Min; Min Kim, Chul; Moon Jeong, Tae, E-mail: jeongtm@gist.ac.kr

    A computational method based on a first-principles multiscale simulation has been used for calculating the optical response and the ablation threshold of an optical material irradiated with an ultrashort intense laser pulse. The method employs Maxwell's equations to describe laser pulse propagation and time-dependent density functional theory to describe the generation of conduction band electrons in an optical medium. Optical properties, such as reflectance and absorption, were investigated for laser intensities in the range 10{sup 10} W/cm{sup 2} to 2 × 10{sup 15} W/cm{sup 2} based on the theory of generation and spatial distribution of the conduction band electrons. The method was applied tomore » investigate the changes in the optical reflectance of α-quartz bulk, half-wavelength thin-film, and quarter-wavelength thin-film and to estimate their ablation thresholds. Despite the adiabatic local density approximation used in calculating the exchange–correlation potential, the reflectance and the ablation threshold obtained from our method agree well with the previous theoretical and experimental results. The method can be applied to estimate the ablation thresholds for optical materials, in general. The ablation threshold data can be used to design ultra-broadband high-damage-threshold coating structures.« less

  16. The effect of elastic modulus on ablation catheter contact area.

    PubMed

    Camp, Jon J; Linte, Cristian A; Rettmann, Maryam E; Sun, Deyu; Packer, Douglas L; Robb, Richard A; Holmes, David R

    2015-02-21

    Cardiac ablation consists of navigating a catheter into the heart and delivering RF energy to electrically isolate tissue regions that generate or propagate arrhythmia. Besides the challenges of accurate and precise targeting of the arrhythmic sites within the beating heart, limited information is currently available to the cardiologist regarding intricate electrode-tissue contact, which directly impacts the quality of produced lesions. Recent advances in ablation catheter design provide intra-procedural estimates of tissue-catheter contact force, but the most direct indicator of lesion quality for any particular energy level and duration is the tissue-catheter contact area, and that is a function of not only force, but catheter pose and material elasticity as well. In this experiment, we have employed real-time ultrasound (US) imaging to determine the complete interaction between the ablation electrode and tissue to accurately estimate contact, which will help to better understand the effect of catheter pose and position relative to the tissue. By simultaneously recording tracked position, force reading and US image of the ablation catheter, the differing material properties of polyvinyl alcohol cryogel [1] phantoms are shown to produce varying amounts of tissue depression and contact area (implying varying lesion quality) for equivalent force readings. We have shown that the elastic modulus significantly affects the surface-contact area between the catheter and tissue at any level of contact force. Thus we provide evidence that a prescribed level of catheter force may not always provide sufficient contact area to produce an effective ablation lesion in the prescribed ablation time.

  17. Analysis of laser surgery in non-melanoma skin cancer for optimal tissue removal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fanjul-Vélez, Félix; Salas-García, Irene; Arce-Diego, José Luis

    2015-02-01

    Laser surgery is a commonly used technique for tissue ablation or the resection of malignant tumors. It presents advantages over conventional non-optical ablation techniques, like a scalpel or electrosurgery, such as the increased precision of the resected volume, minimization of scars and shorter recovery periods. Laser surgery is employed in medical branches such as ophthalmology or dermatology. The application of laser surgery requires the optimal adjustment of laser beam parameters, taking into account the particular patient and lesion. In this work we present a predictive tool for tissue resection in biological tissue after laser surgery, which allows an a priori knowledge of the tissue ablation volume, area and depth. The model employs a Monte Carlo 3D approach for optical propagation and a rate equation for plasma-induced ablation. The tool takes into account characteristics of the specific lesion to be ablated, mainly the geometric, optical and ablation properties. It also considers the parameters of the laser beam, such as the radius, spatial profile, pulse width, total delivered energy or wavelength. The predictive tool is applied to dermatology tumor resection, particularly to different types of non-melanoma skin cancer tumors: basocellular carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and infiltrative carcinoma. The ablation volume, area and depth are calculated for healthy skin and for each type of tumor as a function of the laser beam parameters. The tool could be used for laser surgery planning before the clinical application. The laser parameters could be adjusted for optimal resection volume, by personalizing the process to the particular patient and lesion.

  18. The Propagation of a Surge Front on Bering Glacier, Alaska, 2001-2011

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turrin, James; Forster, Richard R.; Larsen, Chris; Sauber, Jeanne

    2013-01-01

    Bering Glacier, Alaska, USA, has a 20 year surge cycle, with its most recent surge reaching the terminus in 2011. To study this most recent activity a time series of ice velocity maps was produced by applying optical feature-tracking methods to Landsat-7 ETM+ imagery spanning 2001-11. The velocity maps show a yearly increase in ice surface velocity associated with the down-glacier movement of a surge front. In 2008/09 the maximum ice surface velocity was 1.5 plus or minus 0.017 kilometers per a in the mid-ablation zone, which decreased to 1.2 plus or minus 0.015 kilometers per a in 2009/10 in the lower ablation zone, and then increased to nearly 4.4 plus or minus 0.03 kilometers per a in summer 2011 when the surge front reached the glacier terminus. The surge front propagated down-glacier as a kinematic wave at an average rate of 4.4 plus or minus 2.0 kilometers per a between September 2002 and April 2009, then accelerated to 13.9 plus or minus 2.0 kilometers per a as it entered the piedmont lobe between April 2009 and September 2010. Thewave seems to have initiated near the confluence of Bering Glacier and Bagley Ice Valley as early as 2001, and the surge was triggered in 2008 further down-glacier in the mid-ablation zone after the wave passed an ice reservoir area.

  19. Interface modeling in incompressible media using level sets in Escript

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gross, L.; Bourgouin, L.; Hale, A. J.; Mühlhaus, H.-B.

    2007-08-01

    We use a finite element (FEM) formulation of the level set method to model geological fluid flow problems involving interface propagation. Interface problems are ubiquitous in geophysics. Here we focus on a Rayleigh-Taylor instability, namely mantel plumes evolution, and the growth of lava domes. Both problems require the accurate description of the propagation of an interface between heavy and light materials (plume) or between high viscous lava and low viscous air (lava dome), respectively. The implementation of the models is based on Escript which is a Python module for the solution of partial differential equations (PDEs) using spatial discretization techniques such as FEM. It is designed to describe numerical models in the language of PDEs while using computational components implemented in C and C++ to achieve high performance for time-intensive, numerical calculations. A critical step in the solution geological flow problems is the solution of the velocity-pressure problem. We describe how the Escript module can be used for a high-level implementation of an efficient variant of the well-known Uzawa scheme. We begin with a brief outline of the Escript modules and then present illustrations of its usage for the numerical solutions of the problems mentioned above.

  20. Working group report on beam plasmas, electronic propulsion, and active experiments using beams

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dawson, J. M.; Eastman, T.; Gabriel, S.; Hawkins, J.; Matossian, J.; Raitt, J.; Reeves, G.; Sasaki, S.; Szuszczewicz, E.; Winkler, J. R.

    1986-01-01

    The JPL Workshop addressed a number of plasma issues that bear on advanced spaceborne technology for the years 2000 and beyond. Primary interest was on the permanently manned space station with a focus on identifying environmentally related issues requiring early clarification by spaceborne plasma experimentation. The Beams Working Group focused on environmentally related threats that platform operations could have on the conduct and integrity of spaceborne beam experiments and vice versa. Considerations were to include particle beams and plumes. For purposes of definition it was agreed that the term particle beams described a directed flow of charged or neutral particles allowing single-particle trajectories to represent the characteristics of the beam and its propagation. On the other hand, the word plume was adopted to describe a multidimensional flow (or expansion) of a plasma or neutral gas cloud. Within the framework of these definitions, experiment categories included: (1) Neutral- and charged-particle beam propagation, with considerations extending to high powers and currents. (2) Evolution and dynamics of naturally occurring and man-made plasma and neutral gas clouds. In both categories, scientific interest focused on interactions with the ambient geoplasma and the evolution of particle densities, energy distribution functions, waves, and fields.

  1. Ambient infrared laser ablation mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) of live plant tissue with plume capture by continuous flow solvent probe.

    PubMed

    O'Brien, Jeremy T; Williams, Evan R; Holman, Hoi-Ying N

    2015-03-03

    A new experimental setup for spatially resolved ambient infrared laser ablation-mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) that uses an infrared microscope with an infinity-corrected reflective objective and a continuous flow solvent probe coupled to a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer is described. The efficiency of material transfer from the sample to the electrospray ionization emitter was determined using glycerol/methanol droplets containing 1 mM nicotine and is ∼50%. This transfer efficiency is significantly higher than values reported for similar techniques. Laser desorption does not induce fragmentation of biomolecules in droplets containing bradykinin, leucine enkephalin and myoglobin, but loss of the heme group from myoglobin occurs as a result of the denaturing solution used. An application of AIRLAB-MS to biological materials is demonstrated for tobacco leaves. Chemical components are identified from the spatially resolved mass spectra of the ablated plant material, including nicotine and uridine. The reproducibility of measurements made using AIRLAB-MS on plant material was demonstrated by the ablation of six closely spaced areas (within 2 × 2 mm) on a young tobacco leaf, and the results indicate a standard deviation of <10% in the uridine signal obtained for each area. The spatial distribution of nicotine was measured for selected leaf areas and variation in the relative nicotine levels (15-100%) was observed. Comparative analysis of the nicotine distribution was demonstrated for two tobacco plant varieties, a genetically modified plant and its corresponding wild-type, indicating generally higher nicotine levels in the mutant.

  2. Verification of large-scale rapid transport in the lower thermosphere: Tracking the exhaust plume of STS-107 from launch to the Antarctic

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Niciejewski, R.; Skinner, W.; Cooper, M.; Marshall, A.; Meier, R. R.; Stevens, M. H.; Ortland, D.; Wu, Q.

    2011-05-01

    New analysis of the Doppler shift of O2 airglow spectra recorded by the TIMED Doppler Interferometer (TIDI) and the High Resolution Doppler Imager (HRDI) have provided conclusive evidence that the shuttle main engine exhaust plume generated in the lower thermosphere by the launch of STS-107 and imaged by the Global Ultraviolet Imager (GUVI) instrument on TIMED was transported to the Antarctic in ˜80 h, supporting a key inference from the initial study by Stevens et al. (2005). These new results were aided by improved knowledge of the effects of instrumental and satellite artifacts imposed on the Doppler spectra. STS-107 launched on 16 January 2003, and the neutral wind near its launch trajectory and nearby volume was sampled within minutes by TIDI. These initial observations suggested that the northernmost end of the shuttle's exhaust plume would move northeast and that the southern end would move southeast, motions that were identified in imagery acquired during the next orbit of TIMED. The direction and magnitude of plume motion inferred from GUVI images obtained 12, 26, and 50 h after launch were again confirmed by TIDI and HRDI. The appearance of the plume over the Antarctic ˜80 h after launch, inferred from earlier work by the appearance of iron ablated from the shuttle's main engines, was consistent with neutral winds measured by the satellite Doppler instruments over the Antarctic. The transport of the plume from the coast of Florida to the Antarctic was aided by the favorable phase and strong amplitude of a 2 day planetary wave of wave number three in the southern hemisphere on 18 January 2003. The existence of the 2 day wave was deduced from zonally averaged and combined TIDI and HRDI neutral wind observations. We conclude that the existence of strong and sustained winds in the MLT, significantly greater than expected from empirical and theoretical models, is indisputable and provides compelling evidence supporting the global-scale nature of thermospheric winds with magnitude greater than 100 m/s observed by Larsen (2002) from 40 years of sounding rocket chemical release experiments.

  3. Optical ridge waveguides in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped phosphate glass produced by ion irradiation combined with femtosecond laser ablation for guided-wave green and red upconversion emissions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Chen; He, Ruiyun; Tan, Yang; Wang, Biao; Akhmadaliev, Shavkat; Zhou, Shengqiang; de Aldana, Javier R. Vázquez; Hu, Lili; Chen, Feng

    2016-01-01

    This work reports on the fabrication of ridge waveguides in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped phosphate glass by the combination of femtosecond laser ablation and following swift carbon ion irradiation. The guiding properties of waveguides have been investigated at 633 and 1064 nm through end face coupling arrangement. The refractive index profile on the cross section of the waveguide has been constructed. The propagation losses can be reduced considerably after annealing treatment. Under the optical pump laser at 980 nm, the upconversion emission of both green and red fluorescence has been realized through the ridge waveguide structures.

  4. Plume-ridge interaction: Shaping the geometry of mid-ocean ridges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mittelstaedt, Eric L.

    Manifestations of plume-ridge interaction are found across the ocean basins. Currently there are interactions between at least 21 hot spots and nearby ridges along 15--20% of the global mid-ocean ridge network. These interactions produce a number of anomalies including the presence of elevated topography, negative gravity anomalies, and anomalous crustal production. One form of anomalous crustal production is the formation of volcanic lineaments between hotspots and nearby mid-ocean ridges. In addition, observations indicate that mantle plumes tend to "capture" nearby mid-ocean ridges through asymmetric spreading, increased ridge propagation, and discrete shifts of the ridge axis, or ridge jumps. The initiation of ridge jumps and the formation of off-axis volcanic lineaments likely involve similar processes and may be closely related. In the following work, I use theoretical and numerical models to quantify the processes that control the formation of volcanic lineaments (Chapter 2), the initiation of mid-ocean ridge jumps associated with lithospheric heating due to magma passing through the plate (Chapter 3), and the initiation of jumps due to an upwelling mantle plume and magmatic heating governed by melt migration (Chapter 4). Results indicate that lineaments and ridge jumps associated with plume-ridge interaction are most likely to occur on young lithosphere. The shape of lineaments on the seafloor is predicted to be controlled by the pattern of lithospheric stresses associated with a laterally spreading, near-ridge mantle plume. Ridge jumps are likely to occur due to magmatic heating alone only in lithosphere ˜1Myr old, because the heating rate required to jump increases with spreading rate and plate age. The added effect of an upwelling plume introduces competing effects that both promote and inhibit ridge jumps. For models where magmatic heating is controlled by melt migration, repeat ridge jumps are predicted to occur as the plume and ridge separate, but only for restricted values of spreading rate, ridge migration rate, and heating rate. Overall, the results suggest that the combined effect of stresses and magmatism associated with plume-ridge interaction can significantly alter plate geometry over time.

  5. Geochronology and geochemistry of basaltic rocks from the Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange, NW China: Implications for a Devonian mantle plume within the Junggar Ocean

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Gaoxue; Li, Yongjun; Santosh, M.; Yang, Baokai; Yan, Jing; Zhang, Bing; Tong, Lili

    2012-10-01

    The West Junggar domain in NW China is a distinct tectonic unit of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB). It is composed of Paleozoic ophiolitic mélanges, arcs and accretionary complexes. The Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange in the eastern West Junggar forms the northeastern part of the Darbut ophiolitic mélange, which contains serpentinized harzburgite, pyroxenite, dunite, cumulate, pillow lava, abyssal radiolarian chert and podiform chromite, overlain by the Early Carboniferous volcano-sedimentary rocks. In this paper we report new geochronological and geochemical data from basaltic and gabbroic blocks embedded within the Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange, to assess the possible presence of a Devonian mantle plume in the West Junggar, and evaluate the petrogenesis and implications for understanding of the Paleozoic continental accretion of CAOB. Zircon U-Pb analyses from the alkali basalt and gabbro by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry yielded weighted mean ages of 375 ± 2 Ma and 368 ± 11 Ma. Geochemically, the Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange includes at least two distinct magmatic units: (1) a Late Devonian fragmented ophiolite, which were produced by ca. 2-10% spinel lherzolite partial melting in arc-related setting, and (2) contemporary alkali lavas, which were derived from 5% to 10% garnet + minor spinel lherzolite partial melting in an oceanic plateau or a seamount. Based on detailed zircon U-Pb dating and geochemical data for basalts and gabbros from the Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange, in combination with previous work, indicate a complex evolution by subduction-accretion processes from the Devonian to the Carboniferous. Furthermore, the alkali basalts from the Sartuohai ophiolitic mélange might be correlated to a Devonian mantle plume-related magmatism within the Junggar Ocean. If the plume model as proposed here is correct, it would suggest that mantle plume activity significantly contributed to the crustal growth in the CAOB.

  6. New Joint Geochemical-Geophysical Record of Time-Dependent Mantle Convection South of Iceland

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jones, S. M.; Murton, B. J.; Fitton, J. G.; White, N. J.; Scientific Team Of Rv Celtic Explorer Cruise Ce0806

    2010-12-01

    Upper mantle convection is expected to be time-dependent because the mantle Rayleigh number is super-critical by at least 3 orders of magnitude. The North Atlantic V-Shaped Ridges (VSRs) provide a long, spatially extensive and clear record of unsteady mantle convection over time periods of 0.1 to 10 million years. VSRs are diachronous ridges of thick crust formed at the Mid Atlantic Ridge to the north and south of Iceland. Ever since their discovery, it has been generally agreed that this diachronous geometry results from melting anomalies that propagate outward from Iceland within the asthenosphere. The solid earth cycles that generate the VSRs also appear to modulate Atlantic oceanic circulation, since the VSR record correlates well with the % Northern Component Water proxy. Knowledge of geochemical variability associated with the VSRs is lacking in comparison with available geophysical and oceanographic records. Here we report dredged basalt samples obtained during RV Celtic Explorer cruise CE0806 (April-May 2008). Together with an earlier dredged dataset, we now have a record of basalt geochemistry covering intersections of 2 V-Shaped Ridge/Trough pairs with the Mid Atlantic Ridge, as well as a transect along a VSR crest. (1) Along the Mid Atlantic Ridge, spatial variations in trace element concentrations and ratios correlate very well with VSR records from bathymetry and gravity. Minima in incompatible trace element concentrations and in ratios such as La/Sm and Zr/Y correlate with maxima in crustal thickness. There is no associated systematic variation in Nd or Sr isotopes. Observations suggest that VSR melting anomalies are caused by variations in temperature rather than composition of the mantle source. (2) VSR melting anomalies propagate out to at least 1400 km from Iceland, well into the region where fracture zones obscure the topographic and gravitational expressions of the VSRs. A value of >1400 km for the radius of plume head measured at the mid-ocean ridge is >600 km more than the value commonly used in estimating plume volume flux. Both the larger plume head diameter and high propagation speeds implied by VSR planform geometry suggest that some well-known estimates of Icelandic plume flux are too small by up to an order of magnitude. (3) Both geochemical and crustal thickness measurements of VSRs can be matched using a time-dependent mid-ocean ridge melting model atop a simple kinematic model of hotter/cooler pulses travelling radially outward from Iceland within the asthenosphere. (4) A thermal origin for the VSRs strengthens the hypothesis of a direct link between plume pulsing and the fluctuating strength of meridional overturning oceanic circulation. Hotter mantle has a lower density, so locations of higher melt production correspond with locations of increased dynamic support at the mid-ocean ridge. When the same hotter pulses travel beneath the Greenland-Scotland Ridge they cause temporary uplift that affects flow of water between the North Atlantic and Nordic Seas.

  7. Inertial confinement fusion and fast ignitor studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Willi, O.; Barringer, L.; Bell, A.; Borghesi, M.; Davies, J.; Gaillard, R.; Iwase, A.; MacKinnon, A.; Malka, G.; Meyer, C.; Nuruzzaman, S.; Taylor, R.; Vickers, C.; Hoarty, D.; Gobby, P.; Johnson, R.; Watt, R. G.; Blanchot, N.; Canaud, B.; Croso, H.; Meyer, B.; Miquel, J. L.; Reverdin, C.; Pukhov, A.; Meyer-ter-Vehn, J.

    2000-03-01

    Laser imprinting has been studied and, in particular, saturation of areal density perturbations induced by near single mode laser imprinting was observed. Several issues important for the foam buffered direct drive scheme have been investigated. These studies included measurements of the absolute levels of stimulated Brillouin and Raman scattering observed from laser irradiated low density foam targets, either bare or overcoated with a thin layer of gold. A novel scheme is proposed to increase the pressure in indirectly driven targets. By heating a foam supersonically that is attached to a solid target the pressure generated is not only the ablation pressure but also the combined pressure due to ablation at the foam-foil interface and the heated foam material. Planar brominated plastic foil targets overcoated with a low density foam were irradiated by a soft X ray pulse. The pressure was obtained by comparing the rear side trajectory of the driven target observed by soft X ray radiography with one dimensional radiation hydrodynamic simulations. Observations were also carried out of the transition from supersonic to subsonic propagation of an ionization front in low density chlorinated foam targets irradiated by an intense soft X ray pulse. The diagnostic for these measurements was K shell point projection absorption spectroscopy. In the fast ignitor area the channelling and guiding of picosecond laser pulses through underdense plasmas, preformed density channels and microtubes were investigated. It was observed that a large fraction of the incident laser energy can be propagated. Megagauss magnetic fields were measured, with a polarimetric technique, during and after propagation of intense picosecond pulses in preionized plasmas. Two types of toroidal fields, of opposite orientation, were detected. In addition, the production and propagation of an electron beam through solid glass targets irradiated at intensities above 1019W/cm2 were observed using optical probing techniques.

  8. Modeling basin- and plume-scale processes of CO2 storage for full-scale deployment

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhou, Q.; Birkholzer, J.T.; Mehnert, E.

    Integrated modeling of basin- and plume-scale processes induced by full-scale deployment of CO{sub 2} storage was applied to the Mt. Simon Aquifer in the Illinois Basin. A three-dimensional mesh was generated with local refinement around 20 injection sites, with approximately 30 km spacing. A total annual injection rate of 100 Mt CO{sub 2} over 50 years was used. The CO{sub 2}-brine flow at the plume scale and the single-phase flow at the basin scale were simulated. Simulation results show the overall shape of a CO{sub 2} plume consisting of a typical gravity-override subplume in the bottom injection zone of highmore » injectivity and a pyramid-shaped subplume in the overlying multilayered Mt. Simon, indicating the important role of a secondary seal with relatively low-permeability and high-entry capillary pressure. The secondary-seal effect is manifested by retarded upward CO{sub 2} migration as a result of multiple secondary seals, coupled with lateral preferential CO{sub 2} viscous fingering through high-permeability layers. The plume width varies from 9.0 to 13.5 km at 200 years, indicating the slow CO{sub 2} migration and no plume interference between storage sites. On the basin scale, pressure perturbations propagate quickly away from injection centers, interfere after less than 1 year, and eventually reach basin margins. The simulated pressure buildup of 35 bar in the injection area is not expected to affect caprock geomechanical integrity. Moderate pressure buildup is observed in Mt. Simon in northern Illinois. However, its impact on groundwater resources is less than the hydraulic drawdown induced by long-term extensive pumping from overlying freshwater aquifers.« less

  9. Influence of the Minho River plume on the Rias Baixas (NW of the Iberian Peninsula)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sousa, M. C.; Vaz, N.; Alvarez, I.; Gomez-Gesteira, M.; Dias, J. M.

    2014-11-01

    The buoyancy generated by the Minho estuarine plume can flood the Rias Baixas for long periods, reversing the normal salinity gradients. Thus, the main purpose of this work was to study the propagation of Minho estuarine plume to the Rias Baixas, establishing the wind and river discharge conditions in which this plume affects the circulation and hydrography features of these coastal systems as well as the plume characteristics under the most probable forcing conditions, through the application of the numerical model MOHID. For this purpose, several scenarios with different river discharges and wind were simulated. The numerical results revealed that the Minho estuarine plume responds rapidly to wind variations and is influenced by coastline geometry. Under Minho River discharges higher than 700 m3 s- 1 and weak northward winds (3 m s- 1) the circulation patterns of the Rias de Vigo and Pontevedra are reversed. On the other hand, moderate northward winds (6 m s- 1) combined with Minho River discharges higher than 200 m3 s- 1, 300 m3 s- 1 and 700 m3 s- 1 reverse the circulation pattern of the Rias de Vigo, Pontevedra and Arousa, respectively. Under the same conditions, the water exchange between Rias Baixas was analyzed using a particle-tracking model following the trajectories of particles released close to the Minho River mouth. Over 5 days, under Minho River discharges higher than 2100 m3 s- 1 combined with northward winds of 6 m s- 1, an intense water exchange between Rias was observed. However, only 20% of the particles found in Ria de Pontevedra come directly from the Minho River.

  10. Three atmospheric dispersion experiments involving oil fog plumes measured by lidar

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Eberhard, W. L.; Mcnice, G. T.; Troxel, S. W.

    1986-01-01

    The Wave Propagation Lab. participated with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in a series of experiments with the goal of developing and validating dispersion models that perform substantially better that models currently available. The lidar systems deployed and the data processing procedures used in these experiments are briefly described. Highlights are presented of conclusions drawn thus far from the lidar data.

  11. The Afar Depression: Was There a Triple Junction Above the Mantle Plume?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ebinger, C.; Wolfenden, E.; Yirgu, G.; Ayalew, D.; Eagles, G.; Gloaguen, R.; Tiberi, C.; Rowland, J. R.; Deino, A.; Tesfaye, A.; Tesfaye, S.

    2002-12-01

    The Red Sea - Gulf of Aden- Main Ethiopian rift systems (Afar Depression) have served as the textbook example of a R-R-R triple junction zone which formed above a mantle plume (Ethiopia-Yemen flood basalt province, 31-28 Ma). Recent work has documented the onset and propagation of seafloor along the length of the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea arms, but the timing of continental rifting had been poorly constrained. Our aims were to constrain the timing of rift initiation in each arm of the rift near the proposed Oligocene triple junction and to re-assess models for break-up above a mantle plume. Although much of the early history of rifting is deeply buried by Pliocene-Recent lavas, erosional dissection of the rift margins provides windows into the early rift history. Along the southernmost Red Sea, faults commonly marked by eruptive centers initiated at about 26 Ma, coincident with rifting along the easternmost Gulf of Aden. New data from the rift immediately south of the southernmost Red Sea basin (ca.10N) constrain the earliest rift sequences in the northern Main Ethiopian rift (MER). Field and Ar-Ar data from sequences overlying the pre-rift flood basalts show that extension in the northern MER commenced at 12-10 Ma when the two rift systems were finally linked. The active zone of extension and magmatism in the southern Red Sea and eastern Gulf of Aden, however, had migrated east and north, respectively. Summarising, rifting in southern Ethiopia had commenced by 16-18 Ma, and had propagated northward to cut across Oligo-Miocene rift structures of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden by 10 Ma, consistent with plate kinematic data. A triple junction could have developed only during the past 10 My, long after flood basaltic magmatism. Inverse models of gravity data predict a significant step (2-4 km) in the Moho where the youthful, less extended MER breaks into the Afar Depression. Project EAGLE (UK-US-Ethiopia) is now acquiring seismic data across and along this zone to evaluate mechanisms for rift segmentation and propagation prior to breakup.

  12. A quasi-molecular dynamics simulation study on the effect of particles collisions in pulsed-laser desorption

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xinyu-Tan; Duanming-Zhang; Shengqin-Feng; Li, Zhi-hua; Li, Guan; Li, Li; Dan, Liu

    2006-05-01

    The dynamics characteristic and effect of atoms and particulates ejected from the surface generated by nanosecond pulsed-laser ablation are very important. In this work, based on the consideration of the inelasticity and non-uniformity of the plasma particles thermally desorbed from a plane surface into vacuum induced by nanosecond laser ablation, the one-dimensional particles flow is studied on the basis of a quasi-molecular dynamics (QMD) simulation. It is assumed that atoms and particulates ejected from the surface of a target have a Maxwell velocity distribution corresponding to the surface temperature. Particles collisions in the ablation plume. The particles mass is continuous and satisfies fractal theory distribution. Meanwhile, the particles are inelastic. Our results show that inelasticity and non-uniformity strongly affect the dynamics behavior of the particles flow. Along with the decrease of restitution coefficient e and increase of fractional dimension D, velocity distributions of plasma particles system all deviate from the initial Gaussian distribution. The increasing of dissipation energy ΔE leads to density distribution clusterized and closed up to the center mass. Predictions of the particles action based on the proposed fractal and inelasticity model are found to be in agreement with the experimental observation. This verifies the validity of the present model for the dynamics behavior of pulsed-laser-induced particles flow.

  13. Ultra-micro analysis of liquids and suspensions based on laser-induced plasma emissions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheung, N. H.; Ng, C. W.; Ho, W. F.; Yeung, E. S.

    1998-05-01

    Spectrochemical analysis of liquids and suspensions using laser-induced plasma emissions was investigated. Nd:YAG pulsed-laser (532-nm) ablation of aqueous samples produced plasmas that were hot (few eV) and extensively ionized, with electron density in the 10 18 cm -3 range. Analyte line signals were initially masked by intense plasma continuum emissions, and would only emerge briefly above the background when the plume temperature dropped below 1 eV during the course of its very rapid cooling. In contrast, 193-nm laser ablation at similar fluence generated plasmas of much lower (<1 eV) temperature but comparable electron density. The plasma continuum emissions were relatively weak and the signal-to-background ratio was a thousand times better. This `cold' plasma was ideal for sampling trace amounts of biologically important elements such as sodium and potassium. By ablating hydrodynamically focused jets in a sheath-flow, and with acoustic normalization for improved precision, the single-shot detection limits of sodium and potassium were 8 and 50 fg, respectively. Using the sheath-flow arrangement, the amounts of sodium and potassium inside single human red blood cells were simultaneously determined for the first time. The intracellular contents for a given blood donor were found to vary significantly, with only very weak correlation between the amounts of sodium and potassium in individual cells.

  14. Langmuir probe measurements and mass spectrometry of plasma plumes generated by laser ablation of La0.4Ca0.6MnO3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Jikun; Lunney, James G.; Lippert, Thomas; Ojeda-G-P, Alejandro; Stender, Dieter; Schneider, Christof W.; Wokaun, Alexander

    2014-08-01

    The plasma formed in vacuum by UV nanosecond laser ablation of La0.4Ca0.6MnO3 in the fluence range of 0.8 to 1.9 J cm-2 using both Langmuir probe analysis and energy-resolved mass spectrometry has been studied. Mass spectrometry shows that the main positive ion species are Ca+, Mn+, La+, and LaO+. The Ca+ and Mn+ energy distributions are quite broad and lie in the 0-100 eV region, with the average energies increasing with laser fluence. In contrast, the La+ and LaO+ distributions are strongly peaked around 10 eV. The net time-of-arrival signal derived from the measured positive ion energy distributions is broadly consistent with the positive ion signal measured by the Langmuir probe. We also detected a significant number of O- ions with energies in the range of 0 to 10 eV. The Langmuir probe was also used to measure the temporal variation of the electron density and temperature at 6 cm from the ablation target. In the period when O- ions are found at this position, the plasma conditions are consistent with those required for significant negative oxygen ion formation, as revealed by studies on radio frequency excited oxygen plasma.

  15. Feasibility Study on Cardiac Arrhythmia Ablation Using High-Energy Heavy Ion Beams

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lehmann, H. Immo; Graeff, Christian; Simoniello, Palma; Constantinescu, Anna; Takami, Mitsuru; Lugenbiel, Patrick; Richter, Daniel; Eichhorn, Anna; Prall, Matthias; Kaderka, Robert; Fiedler, Fine; Helmbrecht, Stephan; Fournier, Claudia; Erbeldinger, Nadine; Rahm, Ann-Kathrin; Rivinius, Rasmus; Thomas, Dierk; Katus, Hugo A.; Johnson, Susan B.; Parker, Kay D.; Debus, Jürgen; Asirvatham, Samuel J.; Bert, Christoph; Durante, Marco; Packer, Douglas L.

    2016-12-01

    High-energy ion beams are successfully used in cancer therapy and precisely deliver high doses of ionizing radiation to small deep-seated target volumes. A similar noninvasive treatment modality for cardiac arrhythmias was tested here. This study used high-energy carbon ions for ablation of cardiac tissue in pigs. Doses of 25, 40, and 55 Gy were applied in forced-breath-hold to the atrioventricular junction, left atrial pulmonary vein junction, and freewall left ventricle of intact animals. Procedural success was tracked by (1.) in-beam positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging; (2.) intracardiac voltage mapping with visible lesion on ultrasound; (3.) lesion outcomes in pathohistolgy. High doses (40-55 Gy) caused slowing and interruption of cardiac impulse propagation. Target fibrosis was the main mediator of the ablation effect. In irradiated tissue, apoptosis was present after 3, but not 6 months. Our study shows feasibility to use high-energy ion beams for creation of cardiac lesions that chronically interrupt cardiac conduction.

  16. Simple Model for Identifying Critical Regions in Atrial Fibrillation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Christensen, Kim; Manani, Kishan A.; Peters, Nicholas S.

    2015-01-01

    Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common abnormal heart rhythm and the single biggest cause of stroke. Ablation, destroying regions of the atria, is applied largely empirically and can be curative but with a disappointing clinical success rate. We design a simple model of activation wave front propagation on an anisotropic structure mimicking the branching network of heart muscle cells. This integration of phenomenological dynamics and pertinent structure shows how AF emerges spontaneously when the transverse cell-to-cell coupling decreases, as occurs with age, beyond a threshold value. We identify critical regions responsible for the initiation and maintenance of AF, the ablation of which terminates AF. The simplicity of the model allows us to calculate analytically the risk of arrhythmia and express the threshold value of transversal cell-to-cell coupling as a function of the model parameters. This threshold value decreases with increasing refractory period by reducing the number of critical regions which can initiate and sustain microreentrant circuits. These biologically testable predictions might inform ablation therapies and arrhythmic risk assessment.

  17. Models of WO x films growth during pulsed laser deposition at elevated pressures of reactive gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gnedovets, A. G.; Fominski, V. Y.; Nevolin, V. N.; Romanov, R. I.; Fominski, D. V.; Soloviev, A. A.

    2017-12-01

    The films of tungsten oxides were prepared by pulsed laser ablation of W target in a reactive gas atmosphere (air of laboratory humidity). Optical analysis and ion signal measurements for the laser plume allowed to recognise a threshold gas pressure that suppresses the deposition of non-scattered atomic flux from the plume. When the pressure exceeds about 40 Pa, the films grow due to the deposition of species that could be formed in collisions of W atoms with reactive molecules (e.g., O2). Kinetic Monte Carlo method was used for modelling film growth. Comparison of the model structures with the experimentally prepared films has shown that the growth mechanism of ballistic deposition at a pressure of 40 Pa could be changed on the diffusion limited aggregation at a pressure of ~100 Pa. Thus, a cauliflower structure of the film transformed to a web-like structure. For good correlation of experimental and model structures of WO x , a dimension of structural elements in the model should coincide with W-O cluster size.

  18. piscope - A Python based software package for the analysis of volcanic SO2 emissions using UV SO2 cameras

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gliss, Jonas; Stebel, Kerstin; Kylling, Arve; Solvejg Dinger, Anna; Sihler, Holger; Sudbø, Aasmund

    2017-04-01

    UV SO2 cameras have become a common method for monitoring SO2 emission rates from volcanoes. Scattered solar UV radiation is measured in two wavelength windows, typically around 310 nm and 330 nm (distinct / weak SO2 absorption) using interference filters. The data analysis comprises the retrieval of plume background intensities (to calculate plume optical densities), the camera calibration (to convert optical densities into SO2 column densities) and the retrieval of gas velocities within the plume as well as the retrieval of plume distances. SO2 emission rates are then typically retrieved along a projected plume cross section, for instance a straight line perpendicular to the plume propagation direction. Today, for most of the required analysis steps, several alternatives exist due to ongoing developments and improvements related to the measurement technique. We present piscope, a cross platform, open source software toolbox for the analysis of UV SO2 camera data. The code is written in the Python programming language and emerged from the idea of a common analysis platform incorporating a selection of the most prevalent methods found in literature. piscope includes several routines for plume background retrievals, routines for cell and DOAS based camera calibration including two individual methods to identify the DOAS field of view (shape and position) within the camera images. Gas velocities can be retrieved either based on an optical flow analysis or using signal cross correlation. A correction for signal dilution (due to atmospheric scattering) can be performed based on topographic features in the images. The latter requires distance retrievals to the topographic features used for the correction. These distances can be retrieved automatically on a pixel base using intersections of individual pixel viewing directions with the local topography. The main features of piscope are presented based on dataset recorded at Mt. Etna, Italy in September 2015.

  19. Born scattering of long-period body waves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dalkolmo, Jörg; Friederich, Wolfgang

    2000-09-01

    The Born approximation is applied to the modelling of the propagation of deeply turning long-period body waves through heterogeneities in the lowermost mantle. We use an exact Green's function for a spherically symmetric earth model that also satisfies the appropriate boundary conditions at internal boundaries and the surface of the earth. The scattered displacement field is obtained by a numerical quadrature of the product of the Green's function, the exciting wavefield and structural perturbations. We study three examples: scattering of long-period P waves from a plume rising from the core-mantle boundary (CMB), generation of long-period precursors to PKIKP by strong, localized scatterers at the CMB, and propagation of core-diffracted P waves through large-scale heterogeneities in D''. The main results are as follows: (1) the signals scattered from a realistic plume are small with relative amplitudes of less than 2 per cent at a period of 20s, rendering plume detection a fairly difficult task; (2) strong heterogeneities at the CMB of appropriate size may produce observable long-period precursors to PKIKP in spite of the presence of a diffraction from the PKP-B caustic; (3) core-diffracted P waves (Pdiff) are sensitive to structure in D'' far off the geometrical ray path and also far beyond the entry and exit points of the ray into and out of D'' sensitivity kernels exhibit ring-shaped patterns of alternating sign reminiscent of Fresnel zones; (4) Pdiff also shows a non-negligible sensitivity to shear wave velocity in D'' (5) down to periods of 40s, the Born approximation is sufficiently accurate to allow waveform modelling of Pdiff through large-scale heterogeneities in D'' of up to 5 per cent.

  20. Time resolved interferometric study of the plasma plume induced shock wave in confined geometry: Two-dimensional mapping of the ambient and plasma density

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Choudhury, Kaushik; Singh, R. K.; Kumar, Ajai, E-mail: ajai@ipr.res.in

    2016-04-15

    An experimental investigation of the laser produced plasma induced shock wave in the presence of confining walls placed along the axial as well as the lateral direction has been performed. A time resolved Mach Zehnder interferometer is set up to track the primary as well as the reflected shock waves and its effect on the evolving plasma plume has been studied. An attempt has been made to discriminate the electronic and medium density contributions towards the changes in the refractive index of the medium. Two dimensional spatial distributions for both ambient medium density and plasma density (electron density) have beenmore » obtained by employing customised inversion technique and algorithm on the recorded interferograms. The observed density pattern of the surrounding medium in the presence of confining walls is correlated with the reflected shock wave propagation in the medium. Further, the shock wave plasma interaction and the subsequent changes in the shape and density of the plasma plume in confined geometry are briefly described.« less

  1. The relative effects of particles and turbulence on acoustic scattering from deep-sea hydrothermal vent plumes.

    PubMed

    Xu, Guangyu; Di Iorio, Daniela

    2011-10-01

    Acoustic methods are applied to the investigation and monitoring of a vigorous hydrothermal plume within the Main Endeavor vent field at the Endeavor segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge. Forward propagation and scattering from suspended particulates using Rayleigh scattering theory is shown to be negligible (log-amplitude variance σ(χ) (2)~10(-7)) compared to turbulence induced by temperature fluctuations (σ(χ) (2)~0.1). The backscattering from turbulence is then quantified using the forward scattering derived turbulence level, which gives a volume backscattering strength of s(V)=6.5 × 10(-8) m(-1). The volume backscattering cross section from particulates can range from s(V)=3.3 × 10(-6) to 7.2 × 10(-10) m(-1) depending on the particle size. These results show that forward scatter acoustic methods in hydrothermal vent applications can be used to quantify turbulence and its effect on backscatter measurements, which can be a dominant factor depending on the particle size and its location within the plume. © 2011 Acoustical Society of America

  2. Detection of plumes at Redoubt and Etna volcanoes using the GPS SNR method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Larson, Kristine M.; Palo, Scott; Roesler, Carolyn; Mattia, Mario; Bruno, Valentina; Coltelli, Mauro; Fee, David

    2017-09-01

    Detection and characterization of volcanic eruptions is important both for public health and aircraft safety. A variety of ground sensors are used to monitor volcanic eruptions. Data from these ground sensors are subsequently incorporated into models that predict the movement of ash. Here a method to detect volcanic plumes using GPS signals is described. Rather than carrier phase data used by geodesists, the method takes advantage of attenuations in signal to noise ratio (SNR) data. Two datasets are evaluated: the 2009 Redoubt Volcano eruptions and the 2013/2015 eruptions at Mt. Etna. SNR-based eruption durations are compared with previously published seismic, infrasonic, and radar studies at Redoubt Volcano. SNR-based plume detections from Mt. Etna are compared with L-band radar and tremor observations. To place these SNR observations from Redoubt and Etna in context, a model of the propagation of GPS signals through both water/water vapor and tephra is developed. Neither water nor fine ash particles will produce the observed attenuation of GPS signals, while scattering caused by particles > 1 cm in diameter potentially could.

  3. Nonthermal ablation of deep brain targets: A simulation study on a large animal model

    PubMed Central

    Top, Can Barış; White, P. Jason; McDannold, Nathan J.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose: Thermal ablation with transcranial MRI-guided focused ultrasound (FUS) is currently limited to central brain targets because of heating and other beam effects caused by the presence of the skull. Recently, it was shown that it is possible to ablate tissues without depositing thermal energy by driving intravenously administered microbubbles to inertial cavitation using low-duty-cycle burst sonications. A recent study demonstrated that this ablation method could ablate tissue volumes near the skull base in nonhuman primates without thermally damaging the nearby bone. However, blood–brain disruption was observed in the prefocal region, and in some cases, this region contained small areas of tissue damage. The objective of this study was to analyze the experimental model with simulations and to interpret the cause of these effects. Methods: The authors simulated prior experiments where nonthermal ablation was performed in the brain in anesthetized rhesus macaques using a 220 kHz clinical prototype transcranial MRI-guided FUS system. Low-duty-cycle sonications were applied at deep brain targets with the ultrasound contrast agent Definity. For simulations, a 3D pseudospectral finite difference time domain tool was used. The effects of shear mode conversion, focal steering, skull aberrations, nonlinear propagation, and the presence of skull base on the pressure field were investigated using acoustic and elastic wave propagation models. Results: The simulation results were in agreement with the experimental findings in the prefocal region. In the postfocal region, however, side lobes were predicted by the simulations, but no effects were evident in the experiments. The main beam was not affected by the different simulated scenarios except for a shift of about 1 mm in peak position due to skull aberrations. However, the authors observed differences in the volume, amplitude, and distribution of the side lobes. In the experiments, a single element passive cavitation detector was used to measure the inertial cavitation threshold and to determine the pressure amplitude to use for ablation. Simulations of the detector’s acoustic field suggest that its maximum sensitivity was in the lower part of the main beam, which may have led to excessive exposure levels in the experiments that may have contributed to damage in the prefocal area. Conclusions: Overall, these results suggest that case-specific full wave simulations before the procedure can be useful to predict the focal and the prefocal side lobes and the extent of the resulting bioeffects produced by nonthermal ablation. Such simulations can also be used to optimally position passive cavitation detectors. The disagreement between the simulations and the experiments in the postfocal region may have been due to shielding of the ultrasound field due to microbubble activity in the focal region. Future efforts should include the effects of microbubble activity and vascularization on the pressure field. PMID:26843248

  4. Observation of laser-induced elastic waves in agar skin phantoms using a high-speed camera and a laser-beam-deflection probe

    PubMed Central

    Laloš, Jernej; Gregorčič, Peter; Jezeršek, Matija

    2018-01-01

    We present an optical study of elastic wave propagation inside skin phantoms consisting of agar gel as induced by an Er:YAG (wavelength of 2.94 μm) laser pulse. A laser-beam-deflection probe is used to measure ultrasonic propagation and a high-speed camera is used to record displacements in ablation-induced elastic transients. These measurements are further analyzed with a custom developed image recognition algorithm utilizing the methods of particle image velocimetry and spline interpolation to determine point trajectories, material displacement and strain during the passing of the transients. The results indicate that the ablation-induced elastic waves propagate with a velocity of 1 m/s and amplitudes of 0.1 mm. Compared to them, the measured velocities of ultrasonic waves are much higher, within the range of 1.42–1.51 km/s, while their amplitudes are three orders of magnitude smaller. This proves that the agar gel may be used as a rudimental skin and soft tissue substitute in biomedical research, since its polymeric structure reproduces adequate soft-solid properties and its transparency for visible light makes it convenient to study with optical instruments. The results presented provide an insight into the distribution of laser-induced elastic transients in soft tissue phantoms, while the experimental approach serves as a foundation for further research of laser-induced mechanical effects deeper in the tissue. PMID:29675327

  5. Observation of laser-induced elastic waves in agar skin phantoms using a high-speed camera and a laser-beam-deflection probe.

    PubMed

    Laloš, Jernej; Gregorčič, Peter; Jezeršek, Matija

    2018-04-01

    We present an optical study of elastic wave propagation inside skin phantoms consisting of agar gel as induced by an Er:YAG (wavelength of 2.94 μm) laser pulse. A laser-beam-deflection probe is used to measure ultrasonic propagation and a high-speed camera is used to record displacements in ablation-induced elastic transients. These measurements are further analyzed with a custom developed image recognition algorithm utilizing the methods of particle image velocimetry and spline interpolation to determine point trajectories, material displacement and strain during the passing of the transients. The results indicate that the ablation-induced elastic waves propagate with a velocity of 1 m/s and amplitudes of 0.1 mm. Compared to them, the measured velocities of ultrasonic waves are much higher, within the range of 1.42-1.51 km/s, while their amplitudes are three orders of magnitude smaller. This proves that the agar gel may be used as a rudimental skin and soft tissue substitute in biomedical research, since its polymeric structure reproduces adequate soft-solid properties and its transparency for visible light makes it convenient to study with optical instruments. The results presented provide an insight into the distribution of laser-induced elastic transients in soft tissue phantoms, while the experimental approach serves as a foundation for further research of laser-induced mechanical effects deeper in the tissue.

  6. Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry for Molecules Formation Chemistry in Femtosecond-Laser Ablated Plasmas.

    PubMed

    Hou, Huaming; Mao, Xianglei; Zorba, Vassilia; Russo, Richard E

    2017-07-18

    Recently, laser ablated molecular isotopic spectrometry (LAMIS) has expanded its capability to explore molecules formation mechanism in laser-induced plasma in addition to isotope analysis. LAMIS is a powerful tool for tracking the origination of atoms that is involved in formation of investigated molecules by labeling atoms with their isotopic substitution. The evolutionary formation pathways of organic molecules, especially of C 2 dimers and CN radicals, were frequently reported. However, very little is known about the formation pathways for metallic radicals and heterodimers in laser ablated plasma. This research focuses on elucidating the formation pathways of AlO radicals in femtosecond laser ablated plasma from 18 O-labeled Al 2 O 3 pellet. Plasmas expanding with strong forward bias in the direction normal to the sample surface were generated in the wake of a weakly ionized channel created by a femtosecond laser. The formation mechanism of AlO and influence of air were investigated with multiple plasma diagnostic methods such as monochromatic fast gating imaging, spatiotemporal resolved optical emission spectroscopy, and LAMIS. An advanced LAMIS fitting procedure was used to deduce the spatiotemporal distributions of Al 18 O and Al 16 O number densities and also their ratios. We found that the Al 16 O/Al 18 O number density ratio is higher for plasma portion closer to the sample surface, which suggests that chemical reactions between the plasma plume and ambient air are more intense at the tail of the plasma. The results also reveals that direct association of free Al and O atoms is the main mechanism for the formation of AlO at the early stage of the plasma. To the contrast, chemical reactions between plasma materials and ambient oxygen molecules and the isotope exchange effect are the dominant mechanisms of the formation of AlO and evolution of Al 16 O/Al 18 O number density ratio at the late stage of the plasma.

  7. Teflon probing for the flow characterization of arc-heated wind tunnel facilities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gulli, Stefano; Ground, Cody; Crisanti, Matthew; Maddalena, Luca

    2014-02-01

    The experimental flow characterization of the arc-heated wind tunnel of the University of Texas at Arlington is investigated in this work using ablative Teflon probes in combination with total pressure measurements. A parallel analytical work, focused on the dimensional analysis of the ablation process, has been conducted with the purpose of improving existing semi-empirical correlations for the heat blockage due to the mass injection inside the boundary layer. A control volume analysis at the receding surface of the specimens is used to calculate the wall heat transfer for a non-ablating probe by including the blockage effect. The new correlations, obtained for the convective blockage, show an improvement of the correlation coefficient of 110 % with respect to those available in literature, once a new blowing parameter containing the stagnation pressure is introduced. A correlation developed by NASA during the Round-Robin program, which relates the Teflon mass loss rate to the total pressure and cold-wall heat flux measured experimentally, is also used to predict the wall heat transfer referred to the ablation temperature of Teflon. For both approaches, a simplified stagnation point convective heat transfer equation allows the average stagnation enthalpy to be calculated. Several locations downstream of the nozzle exit have been surveyed, and selected points of the facility's performance map have been used for the experimental campaign. The results show that both approaches provide similar results in terms of stagnation heat flux and enthalpy prediction with uncertainties comparable to those provided by standard intrusive heat flux probes ( δ q max < 25 %). The analysis of the Teflon's ablated surface does not reveal significant flow non-uniformities, and a 1.14 heat flux enhancement factor due to the shock-shock interaction is detectable at x = 3.5 in. from the nozzle exit plane. The results show the use of ablative probes for the flow characterization of arc plasma facilities to be promising for the dual purpose of calculating the local flow properties (i.e., heat flux and enthalpy) as well as verifying the uniformity of the flow by inspecting the footprint of the plume on the exposed surfaces.

  8. Origin of the South Atlantic igneous province

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Foulger, Gillian R.

    2018-04-01

    The South Atlantic Igneous Province comprises the Paraná Basalts, Rio Grande Rise, Tristan archipelago and surrounding guyot province, Walvis Ridge, Etendeka basalts and, in some models, the alkaline igneous lineament in the Lucapa corridor, Angola. Although these volcanics are often considered to have a single generic origin, complexities that suggest otherwise are observed. The Paraná Basalts erupted 5 Ma before sea-floor spreading started in the neighborhood, and far more voluminous volcanic margins were emplaced later. A continental microcontinent likely forms much of the Rio Grande Rise, and variable styles of volcanism built the Walvis Ridge and the Tristan da Cunha archipelago and guyot province. Such complexities, coupled with the northward-propagating mid-ocean ridge crossing a major transverse transtensional intracontinental structure, suggest that fragmentation of Pangaea was complex at this latitude and that the volcanism may have occurred in response to distributed extension. The alternative model, a deep mantle plume, is less able to account for many observations and no model variant can account for all the primary features that include eruption of the Paraná Basalts in a subsiding basin, continental breakup by rift propagation that originated far to the south, the absence of a time-progressive volcanic chain between the Paraná Basalts and the Rio Grande Rise, derivation of the lavas from different sources, and the lack of evidence for a plume conduit in seismic-tomography- and magnetotelluric images. The region shares many common features with the North Atlantic Igneous Province which also features persistent, widespread volcanism where a propagating mid-ocean ridge crossed a transverse structural discontinuity in the disintegrating supercontinent.

  9. A Statistics-Based Material Property Analysis to Support TPS Characterization

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Copeland, Sean R.; Cozmuta, Ioana; Alonso, Juan J.

    2012-01-01

    Accurate characterization of entry capsule heat shield material properties is a critical component in modeling and simulating Thermal Protection System (TPS) response in a prescribed aerothermal environment. The thermal decomposition of the TPS material during the pyrolysis and charring processes is poorly characterized and typically results in large uncertainties in material properties as inputs for ablation models. These material property uncertainties contribute to large design margins on flight systems and cloud re- construction efforts for data collected during flight and ground testing, making revision to existing models for entry systems more challenging. The analysis presented in this work quantifies how material property uncertainties propagate through an ablation model and guides an experimental test regimen aimed at reducing these uncertainties and characterizing the dependencies between properties in the virgin and charred states for a Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) based TPS. A sensitivity analysis identifies how the high-fidelity model behaves in the expected flight environment, while a Monte Carlo based uncertainty propagation strategy is used to quantify the expected spread in the in-depth temperature response of the TPS. An examination of how perturbations to the input probability density functions affect output temperature statistics is accomplished using a Kriging response surface of the high-fidelity model. Simulations are based on capsule configuration and aerothermal environments expected during the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) entry sequence. We identify and rank primary sources of uncertainty from material properties in a flight-relevant environment, show the dependence on spatial orientation and in-depth location on those uncertainty contributors, and quantify how sensitive the expected results are.

  10. Independent mapping methods reveal rotational activation near pulmonary veins where atrial fibrillation terminates before pulmonary vein isolation.

    PubMed

    Navara, Rachita; Leef, George; Shenasa, Fatemah; Kowalewski, Christopher; Rogers, Albert J; Meckler, Gabriela; Zaman, Junaid A B; Baykaner, Tina; Park, Shirley; Turakhia, Mintu P; Zei, Paul; Viswanathan, Mohan; Wang, Paul J; Narayan, Sanjiv M

    2018-01-29

    To investigate mechanisms by which atrial fibrillation (AF) may terminate during ablation near the pulmonary veins before the veins are isolated (PVI). It remains unstudied how AF may terminate during ablation before PVs are isolated, or how patients with PV reconnection can be arrhythmia-free. We studied patients in whom PV antral ablation terminated AF before PVI, using two independent mapping methods. We studied patients with AF referred for ablation, in whom biatrial contact basket electrograms were studied by both an activation/phase mapping method and by a second validated mapping method reported not to create false rotational activity. In 22 patients (age 60.1 ± 10.4, 36% persistent AF), ablation at sites near the PVs terminated AF (77% to sinus rhythm) prior to PVI. AF propagation revealed rotational (n  =  20) and focal (n  =  2) patterns at sites of termination by mapping method 1 and method 2. Both methods showed organized sites that were spatially concordant (P < 0.001) with similar stability (P < 0.001). Vagal slowing was not observed at sites of AF termination. PV antral regions where ablation terminated AF before PVI exhibited rotational and focal activation by two independent mapping methods. These data provide an alternative mechanism for the success of PVI, and may explain AF termination before PVI or lack of arrhythmias despite PV reconnection. Mapping such sites may enable targeted PV lesion sets and improved freedom from AF. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. Characterization of a 50kW Inductively Coupled Plasma Torch for Testing of Ablative Thermal Protection Materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Greene, Benton R.; Clemens, Noel T.; Varghese, Philip L.; Bouslog, Stanley A.; Del Papa, Steven V.

    2017-01-01

    With the development of new manned spaceflight capabilities including NASA's Orion capsule and the Space-X Dragon capsule, there is a renewed importance of understanding the dynamics of ablative thermal protection systems. To this end, a new inductively coupled plasma torch facility is being developed at UT-Austin. The torch operates on argon and/or air at plasma powers up to 50 kW. In the present configuration the flow issues from a low-speed subsonic nozzle and the hot plume is characterized using slug calorimetry and emission spectroscopy. Preliminary measurements using emission spectroscopy have indicated that the torch is capable of producing an air plasma with a temperature between 6,000 K and 8,000 K depending on the power and flow settings and an argon plasma with a temperature of approximately 12,000 K. The operation envelope was measured, and heat flux measured for every point within the envelope using both a slug calorimeter and a Gardon gauge heat flux sensor. The torch was found to induce a stagnation point heat flux of between 90 and 225 W/sq cm.

  12. Selective removal of dental composite using a rapidly scanned carbon dioxide laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chan, Kenneth H.; Fried, Daniel

    2011-03-01

    Dental restorative materials are color matched to the tooth and are difficult to remove by mechanical means without excessive removal or damage to peripheral enamel and dentin. Lasers are ideally suited for selective ablation to minimize healthy tissue loss when replacing existing restorations, sealants or removing composite adhesives such as residual composite left after debonding orthodontic brackets. In this study a carbon dioxide laser operating at high laser pulse repetition rates integrated with a galvanometer based scanner was used to selectively remove composite from tooth surfaces. A diode array spectrometer was used to measure the plume emission after each laser pulse and determine if the ablated material was tooth mineral or composite. The composite was placed on tooth buccal and occlusal surfaces and the carbon dioxide laser was scanned across the surface to selectively remove the composite without excessive damage to the underlying sound enamel. The residual composite and the damage to the underlying enamel was evaluated using optical microscopy. The laser was able to rapidly remove the composites rapidly from both surfaces with minimal damage to the underlying sound enamel.

  13. Laser ablation-miniature mass spectrometer for elemental and isotopic analysis of rocks.

    PubMed

    Sinha, M P; Neidholdt, E L; Hurowitz, J; Sturhahn, W; Beard, B; Hecht, M H

    2011-09-01

    A laser ablation-miniature mass spectrometer (LA-MMS) for the chemical and isotopic measurement of rocks and minerals is described. In the LA-MMS method, neutral atoms ablated by a pulsed laser are led into an electron impact ionization source, where they are ionized by a 70 eV electron beam. This results in a secondary ion pulse typically 10-100 μs wide, compared to the original 5-10 ns laser pulse duration. Ions of different masses are then spatially dispersed along the focal plane of the magnetic sector of the miniature mass spectrometer (MMS) and measured in parallel by a modified CCD array detector capable of detecting ions directly. Compared to conventional scanning techniques, simultaneous measurement of the ion pulse along the focal plane effectively offers a 100% duty cycle over a wide mass range. LA-MMS offers a more quantitative assessment of elemental composition than techniques that detect ions directly generated by the ablation process because the latter can be strongly influenced by matrix effects that vary with the structure and geometry of the surface, the wavelength of the laser beam, and the not well characterized ionization efficiencies of the elements in the process. The above problems attendant to the direct ion analysis has been minimized in the LA-MMS by analyzing the ablated neutral species after their post-ionization by electron impaction. These neutral species are much more abundant than the directly ablated ions in the ablated vapor plume and are, therefore, expected to be characteristic of the chemical composition of the solid. Also, the electron impact ionization of elements is well studied and their ionization cross sections are known and easy to find in databases. Currently, the LA-MMS limit of detection is 0.4 wt.%. Here we describe LA-MMS elemental composition measurements of various minerals including microcline, lepidolite, anorthoclase, and USGS BCR-2G samples. The measurements of high precision isotopic ratios including (41)K/(39)K (0.077 ± 0.004) and (29)Si/(28)Si (0.052 ± 0.006) in these minerals by LA-MMS are also described. The LA-MMS has been developed as a prototype instrument system for space applications for geochemical and geochronological measurements on the surface of extraterrestrial bodies. © 2011 American Institute of Physics

  14. Modeling and observations of ULF waves trapped in a plasmaspheric density plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Degeling, A. W.; Zhang, S.; Foster, J. C.; Shi, Q.; Zong, Q. G.; Rankin, R.

    2017-12-01

    In order for ULF waves to effectively energise radiation belt electrons by drift-resonance, wave power must be significant in regions within the magnetosphere where the ULF wave phase propagation and electron drift directions are roughly aligned. For waves launched along the dayside magnetopause, such a region would be located in the afternoon - dusk sector of the inner magnetosphere. During periods of storm activity and enhanced convection, the plasma density in this region is highly dynamic due to the development of plasmaspheric drainage plume (PDP) structure. This significantly affects the local Alfvén speed, and alters the propagation of ULF waves launched from the magnetopause. It can therefore be expected that the accessibility of ULF wave power for radiation belt energisation is sensitively dependent on the recent history of magnetospheric convection, and the stage of development of the PDP. This is investigated using a 3D model for ULF waves within the magnetosphere in which the plasma density distribution is evolved using an advection model for cold plasma, driven by a (Volland - Stern) convection electrostatic field (resulting in PDP structure). The wave model includes magnetic-field day/night asymmetry, and extends to a paraboloid dayside magnetopause, from which ULF waves are launched at various stages during the PDP development. We find that the plume structure significantly alters the field line resonance (FLR) location, and the turning point for MHD fast waves, introducing strong asymmetry in the ULF wave distribution across the noon meridian. Moreover, the density enhancement within the PDP creates a waveguide or local cavity for MHD fast waves, such that eigenmodes formed allow the penetration of ULF wave power to much lower L within the plume than outside. This may explain satellite observations of the appearance of ULF wave activity within localized density enhancements associated with a PDP. Such an example, made by THEMIS following a geomagnetic storm on October 9, 2013, is described, and compared against the ULF wave model results, for which inputs are constrained by available observations.

  15. Simulation of alternate hohlraum shapes for improved inner beam propagation in indirectly-driven ICF implosions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Robey, H. F.; Berzak Hopkins, L. F.

    2017-10-01

    Recent indirectly-driven ICF experiments performed on the National Ignition Facility have shown that the propagation of the inner beam cones is impeded late in the laser pulse by the growth of a gold bubble, which is initiated at the location where the outer beams hit the hohlraum wall and which expands radially inward into the hohlraum as the implosion progresses. Late in time, this gold bubble intercepts a significant portion of the inner beams reducing the available energy reaching the waist of the hohlraum and affecting the implosion symmetry. Integrated hohlraum simulations of alternate hohlraum shapes using HYDRA are performed to explore options for reducing the impact of the gold bubble on inner beam propagation. The simulations are based on recent NIF implosions using High-Density Carbon (HDC) ablators, which have shown good performance, but which could benefit from improved inner beam propagation. This work was performed under the auspices of the Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC, (LLNS) under Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  16. Power in the bucket and angle of arrival modelling in the presence of an airborne platform-induced turbulence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Velluet, Marie-Thérèse

    2017-10-01

    In the framework of a European collaborative research project called ALWS (Airborne platform effects on lasers and Warning Sensors), the effects of platform-related turbulence on MAWS (missile approach warning systems) and DIRCM (directed infrared countermeasures) performance are investigated. Field trials have been conducted to study the turbulence effects around a hovering helicopter and behind a turboprop aircraft on the ground, with engines running. The time dependence of the power in the bucket and the amplitude of the angle of arrival have been characterized during the trial. Temporal spectra of these two parameters present an asymptotic behavior typical of optical beams propagating through developed turbulence (Kolmogorov). Based on the formalism developed in the case of propagation through atmospheric turbulence, we have first estimated turbulence strength and wind velocity inside plume for different flight conditions. We have then proposed an approach to simulate times series of these two quantities in the same conditions. These simulated time series have been compared with the recorded data to assess their validity domain. This model will be integrated in a simulator to estimate the impact of the turbulence induced by the platform and calculate the system performance. In this model dedicated to plume and downwash effects, aero-optical effects are not taken into account.

  17. Discontinuous Galerkin modeling of the Columbia River's coupled estuary-plume dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vallaeys, Valentin; Kärnä, Tuomas; Delandmeter, Philippe; Lambrechts, Jonathan; Baptista, António M.; Deleersnijder, Eric; Hanert, Emmanuel

    2018-04-01

    The Columbia River (CR) estuary is characterized by high river discharge and strong tides that generate high velocity flows and sharp density gradients. Its dynamics strongly affects the coastal ocean circulation. Tidal straining in turn modulates the stratification in the estuary. Simulating the hydrodynamics of the CR estuary and plume therefore requires a multi-scale model as both shelf and estuarine circulations are coupled. Such a model has to keep numerical dissipation as low as possible in order to correctly represent the plume propagation and the salinity intrusion in the estuary. Here, we show that the 3D baroclinic discontinuous Galerkin finite element model SLIM 3D is able to reproduce the main features of the CR estuary-to-ocean continuum. We introduce new vertical discretization and mode splitting that allow us to model a region characterized by complex bathymetry and sharp density and velocity gradients. Our model takes into account the major forcings, i.e. tides, surface wind stress and river discharge, on a single multi-scale grid. The simulation period covers the end of spring-early summer of 2006, a period of high river flow and strong changes in the wind regime. SLIM 3D is validated with in-situ data on the shelf and at multiple locations in the estuary and compared with an operational implementation of SELFE. The model skill in the estuary and on the shelf indicate that SLIM 3D is able to reproduce the key processes driving the river plume dynamics, such as the occurrence of bidirectional plumes or reversals of the inner shelf coastal currents.

  18. Frontal dynamics at the edge of the Columbia River plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akan, Çiğdem; McWilliams, James C.; Moghimi, Saeed; Özkan-Haller, H. Tuba

    2018-02-01

    In the tidal ebb-cycle at the Mouth of the Columbia River, strong density and velocity fronts sometimes form perpendicular to the coast at the edges of the freshwater plume. They are distinct from previously analyzed fronts at the offshore western edge of the plume that evolve as a gravity-wave bore. We present simulation results to demonstrate their occurrence and investigate the mechanisms behind their frontogenesis and evolution. Tidal velocities on average ranged between 1.5 m s-1 in flood and 2.5 m s-1 in ebb during the brief hindcast period. The tidal fronts exhibit strong horizontal velocity and buoyancy gradients on a scale ∼ 100 m in width with normalized relative vorticity (ζz/f) values reaching up to 50. We specifically focus on the front on the northern edge of the plume and examine the evolution in plume characteristics such as its water mass gradients, horizontal and vertical velocity structure, vertical velocity, turbulent vertical mixing, horizontal propagation, cross-front momentum balance, and Lagrangian frontogenetic tendencies in both buoyancy and velocity gradients. Advective frontogenesis leads to a very sharp front where lateral mixing near the grid-resolution limit arrests its further contraction. The negative vorticity within the front is initiated by the positive bottom drag curl on the north side of the Columbia estuary and against the north jetty. Because of the large negative vorticity and horizontal vorticity gradient, centrifugal and lateral shear instability begins to develop along the front, but frontal fragmentation and decay set in only after the turn of the tide because of the briefness of the ebb interval.

  19. Oceanic microplate formation records the onset of India-Eurasia collision

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Matthews, Kara J.; Dietmar Müller, R.; Sandwell, David T.

    2016-01-01

    Mapping of seafloor tectonic fabric in the Indian Ocean, using high-resolution satellite-derived vertical gravity gradient data, reveals an extinct Pacific-style oceanic microplate ('Mammerickx Microplate') west of the Ninetyeast Ridge. It is one of the first Pacific-style microplates to be mapped outside the Pacific basin, suggesting that geophysical conditions during formation probably resembled those that have dominated at eastern Pacific ridges. The microplate formed at the Indian-Antarctic ridge and is bordered by an extinct ridge in the north and pseudofault in the south, whose conjugate is located north of the Kerguelen Plateau. Independent microplate rotation is indicated by asymmetric pseudofaults and rotated abyssal hill fabric, also seen in multibeam data. Magnetic anomaly picks and age estimates calculated from published spreading rates suggest formation during chron 21o (∼47.3 Ma). Plate reorganizations can trigger ridge propagation and microplate development, and we propose that Mammerickx Microplate formation is linked with the India-Eurasia collision (initial 'soft' collision). The collision altered the stress regime at the Indian-Antarctic ridge, leading to a change in segmentation and ridge propagation from an establishing transform. Fast Indian-Antarctic spreading that preceded microplate formation, and Kerguelen Plume activity, may have facilitated ridge propagation via the production of thin and weak lithosphere; however both factors had been present for tens of millions of years and are therefore unlikely to have triggered the event. Prior to the collision, the combination of fast spreading and plume activity was responsible for the production of a wide region of undulate seafloor to the north of the extinct ridge and 'W' shaped lineations that record back and forth ridge propagation. Microplate formation provides a precise means of dating the onset of the India-Eurasia collision, and is completely independent of and complementary to timing constraints derived from continental geology or convergence histories.

  20. India-Eurasia collision triggers formation of an oceanic microplate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Matthews, Kara; Müller, Dietmar; Sandwell, David

    2016-04-01

    Detailed mapping of seafloor tectonic fabric in the Indian Ocean, using high-resolution satellite-derived vertical gravity gradient data, reveals an extinct Pacific-style oceanic microplate - the Mammerickx Microplate - west of the Ninetyeast Ridge. It is one of the first Pacific-style microplates to be mapped outside the Pacific basin, suggesting that geophysical conditions during formation probably resembled those that have dominated at eastern Pacific ridges. The microplate formed at the Indian-Antarctic ridge and is bordered by an extinct ridge in the north and pseudofault in the south, whose conjugate is located north of the Kerguelen Plateau. Independent microplate rotation is indicated by asymmetric pseudofaults and rotated abyssal hill fabric, also identified in multibeam data. Magnetic anomaly picks and age estimates calculated from published spreading rates suggest formation during chron 21o (~47.3 Ma). Plate reorganizations can trigger ridge propagation and microplate development, and we propose that formation of the Mammerickx Microplate is linked with the initial 'soft' stage of the India-Eurasia collision. The collision altered the stress regime at the Indian-Antarctic ridge, leading to a change in segmentation and ridge propagation from an establishing transform fault. Fast Indian-Antarctic spreading that preceded microplate formation, and Kerguelen Plume activity may have facilitated ridge propagation via the production of thin and weak lithosphere. However, both factors had been present for tens of millions of years and are therefore unlikely to have triggered the event. Prior to the collision, this combination of fast spreading and plume activity was responsible for the production of a wide region of undulate seafloor to the north of the extinct ridge and 'W' shaped lineations that record back and forth ridge propagation. Microplate formation provides a means of dating the onset of the India-Eurasia collision, and is completely independent of and complementary to timing constraints derived from continental geology or convergence histories.

  1. Evaluation of Geopolymer Concrete for Rocket Test Facility Flame Deflectors

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Allgood, Daniel C.; Montes, Carlos; Islam, Rashedul; Allouche, Erez

    2014-01-01

    The current paper presents results from a combined research effort by Louisiana Tech University (LTU) and NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) to develop a new alumina-silicate based cementitious binder capable of acting as a high performance refractory material with low heat ablation rate and high early mechanical strength. Such a binder would represent a significant contribution to NASA's efforts to develop a new generation of refractory 'hot face' liners for liquid or solid rocket plume environments. This project was developed as a continuation of on-going collaborations between LTU and SSC, where test sections of a formulation of high temperature geopolymer binder were cast in the floor and walls of Test Stand E-1 Cell 3, an active rocket engine test stand flame trench. Additionally, geopolymer concrete panels were tested using the NASA-SSC Diagnostic Test Facility (DTF) thruster, where supersonic plume environments were generated on a 1ft wide x 2ft long x 6 inch deep refractory panel. The DTF operates on LOX/GH2 propellants producing a nominal thrust of 1,200 lbf and the combustion chamber conditions are Pc=625psig, O/F=6.0. Data collected included high speed video of plume/panel area and surface profiles (depth) of the test panels measured on a 1-inch by 1-inch giving localized erosion rates during the test. Louisiana Tech conducted a microstructure analysis of the geopolymer binder after the testing program to identify phase changes in the material.

  2. Ultrasound-Guided Transesophageal High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Cardiac Ablation in a Beating Heart: A Pilot Feasibility Study in Pigs.

    PubMed

    Bessiere, Francis; N'djin, W Apoutou; Colas, Elodie Constanciel; Chavrier, Françoise; Greillier, Paul; Chapelon, Jean Yves; Chevalier, Philippe; Lafon, Cyril

    2016-08-01

    Catheter ablation for the treatment of arrhythmia is associated with significant complications and often-repeated procedures. Consequently, a less invasive and more efficient technique is required. Because high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) enables the generation of precise thermal ablations in deep-seated tissues without harming the tissues in the propagation path, it has the potential to be used as a new ablation technique. A system capable of delivering HIFU into the heart by a transesophageal route using ultrasound (US) imaging guidance was developed and tested in vivo in six male pigs. HIFU exposures were performed on atria and ventricles. At the time of autopsy, visual inspection identified thermal lesions in the targeted areas in three of the animals. These lesions were confirmed by histologic analysis (mean size: 5.5 mm(2) × 11 mm(2)). No esophageal thermal injury was observed. One animal presented with bradycardia due to an atrio-ventricular block, which provides real-time confirmation of an interaction between HIFU and the electrical circuits of the heart. Thus, US-guided HIFU has the potential to minimally invasively create myocardial lesions without an intra-cardiac device. Copyright © 2016 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Modeling and Simulation of Ablation-Controlled Plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kundrapu, Madhusudhan N.

    Ablation and plasma formation in high energy laser target interactions and arc discharges are studied numerically. Each of the two processes is modeled separately due to the type of energy source and the resulting flow eld. Ablation of the target material and plasma formation are coupled to obtain evaporation rate, temperature distribution, velocity eld, and species concentration self-consistently. Laser ablation is studied in the perspective of directed energy applications, where beam size varies from few centimeters to tens of centimeters with energies extending up to 10 kW/cm2. Because of this high energy deposition, the evaporated material expands to supersonic speeds into the free space. Due to the large spot sizes and associated supersonic flow, one dimensional Euler equations are considered to be sufficient for modeling the plume. Instead, more emphasis was given to evaporation model, by introducing Knudsen layer kinetics at the plume target interface, and plasma shielding. The evaporation rate is validated with results from the experiments and simulations are carried out to nd the in fluence of laser beam frequency on evaporation rates. The evaporation model used in this work is found to be more accurate than the widely used model based on sonic speed assumption. The optimum beam wavelength for Al surfaces is found to be 850 nm. Attenuation of telemetry data by plasma is a concern for the testing of directed energy systems. Electrostatic approach for the mitigation of communication attenuation is analyzed to obtain the fluency limits up to which the approach can be implemented. It is found from sheath calculations that uninterrupted telemetry can be achieved through Al plasma for fluences below 4 J/cm2 at a background pressure of 1 atm, using a maximum bias voltage of 10 kV . Arc discharge ablation is modeled for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The electric arc generated between the electrodes, placed inside a Helium chamber, evaporates the catalyst-lled carbon anode to form a web of nanoparticles. Conservative form of Navier-Stokes equations along with energy equation and species transport are solved in cylindrical coordinates using SIMPLER algorithm. Current continuity in electric potential form is solved to obtain the potential distribution. Current is then calculated from the potential, and from axial current, magnetic eld is obtained using Ampere's law. Anode sublimation rate and current voltage characteristics are compared with experiments for arc currents varying from 10 to 100 A. Nanoparticle formation is estimated using homogeneous nucleation and surface diusion models. For an arc current of 60 A and inter-electrode gap of 4 mm with 68 Pa, the diameter of Nickel cluster is found to be 9.2 nm, which agrees with the upper limit of TEM measurements. The length of single walled nanotube is found to be 3.5 mum for this case. Parametric studies carried out by varying arc current, background pressure, and electrode gap showed moderate in uence on the growth rate. Hot chamber arc discharge method, proposed in this work, is found to be promising to maximize the growth of nanoparticles.

  4. Application of NIR Laser Spectroscopy to the Monitoring of Volcanic Plumes: Principles and Practicalities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hamish, A.; Christenson, B. W.; Mazot, A.

    2014-12-01

    The major volatile species in volcanic plume emissions (i.e., H2O, CO2, SO2, HCl, HF) are all strongly infrared (IR)-active, and lend themselves to infrared spectroscopic analysis. However, physical/optical access to plume gases along pathways which include a suitable natural or active IR radiation source is often difficult or impossible to achieve, particularly for timeframes extending beyond short campaign periods. In this study, we present results from preliminary tests conducted on three volcanic CO2 plume emissions using a tunable diode NIR laser system (TDL, Boreal Laser Inc.). The approach is proving itself as a good candidate for continuous monitoring of volcanic plume CO2, and by default all other IR-active constituents for which lasers of appropriate wavelength are available. The CO2 system is configured with a TDL in a transceiver generating laser light which can be tuned to coincide with one of several absorption lines in the CO2 absorption band between 1575 nm and 1585 nm. This beam propagates through the atmosphere (and plume) to a retro-reflector, which returns the beam to a photodiode detector in the transceiver which processes the signal to report real time CO2 column densities. The CO2 absorption line at 1579.1 nm was used to good effect on Mt Ruapehu (NZ) where volcanic gases emanate through a 100 m deep crater lake, resulting in CO2 concentrations of > 78 ppm above background in the mixing zone varying from 4 to 30 m above the lake surface. Subsequent tests on the main plume at White Island, however, generated only poor results with indicated CO2 amounts being less than atmospheric. We concluded that this was the result of interference from a neighboring but comparatively minor H2O absorption band which in the proximal, higher temperature plume (estimated 50-70 °C), had H2O concentrations some 4-5 times greater than ambient. A change to a less sensitive absorption line further removed from potential H2O band interference (1567.9 nm) appears to have solved this problem, and yielded maximum CO2 concentrations along the 730 m pathway in excess of 500 ppm.This approach holds promise for continuous, real-time monitoring of volcanic plume chemistry, and we will now turn our focus to the detection of SO2, HCl and HF plume species.

  5. Shock-wave propagation and cavitation bubble oscillation by Nd:YAG laser ablation of a metal in water.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xiao; Xu, Rong-Qing; Chen, Jian-Ping; Shen, Zhong-Hua; Jian, Lu; Ni, Xiao-Wu

    2004-06-01

    A highly sensitive fiber-optic sensor based on optical beam deflection is applied for investigating the propagation of a laser-induced plasma shock wave, the oscillation of a cavitation bubble diameter, and the development of a bubble-collapse-induced shock wave when a Nd:YAG laser pulse is focused upon an aluminum surface in water. By the sequence of experimental waveforms detected at different distances, the attenuation properties of the plasma shock wave and of the bubble-collapse-induced shock wave are obtained. Besides, based on characteristic signals, both the maximum and the minimum bubble radii at each oscillation cycle are determined, as are the corresponding oscillating periods.

  6. First Observation of Bright Solitons in Bulk Superfluid ^{4}He.

    PubMed

    Ancilotto, Francesco; Levy, David; Pimentel, Jessica; Eloranta, Jussi

    2018-01-19

    The existence of bright solitons in bulk superfluid ^{4}He is demonstrated by time-resolved shadowgraph imaging experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The initial liquid compression that leads to the creation of nonlinear waves is produced by rapidly expanding plasma from laser ablation. After the leading dissipative period, these waves transform into bright solitons, which exhibit three characteristic features: dispersionless propagation, negligible interaction in a two-wave collision, and direct dependence between soliton amplitude and the propagation velocity. The experimental observations are supported by DFT calculations, which show rapid evolution of the initially compressed liquid into bright solitons. At high amplitudes, solitons become unstable and break down into dispersive shock waves.

  7. Impact of radiofrequency ablation geometry on electrical conduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rivas, Rhiana N.; Lye, Theresa H.; Hendon, Christine P.

    2018-02-01

    The gold standard of current treatment for atrial fibrillation is radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Single RFA procedures have low long-term, single-procedure success rates, which can be attributed to factors including inability to measure and visualize lesion depth in real time and incomplete knowledge of how atrial fibrillation manifests and persists. One way to address this problem is to develop a heart model that accurately fits lesion dimensions and depth using OCT to extract structural information. Twenty-three lesions of varying transmurality in left and right swine atrial tissue have been imaged with a Thorlabs OCT system with 6.5-micron axial resolution and a custom Ultra High Resolution system with 2.5-micron axial resolution. The boundaries of the ablation lesions were identified by the appearance of the birefringence artifact to identify areas of un-ablated tissue, as well as by changes to depth penetration and structural features, including decreased contrast between the endocardium and myocardium and disappearance of collagen fibers within the ablation lesion. Using these features, the lateral positions of the lesion boundaries were identified. An algorithm that fit ellipses to the lesion contours modeled the ablation geometry in depth. Lesion dimensions and shape were confirmed by comparison with trichrome histological processing. Finite-element models were fitted with these parameters and electrophysiological simulations were run with the Continuity 6 package. Next steps include correlating lesion geometry to conduction velocity, and including further tissue complexity such as varying tissue composition and fiber orientation. Additional models of linear lesions with gaps and adjacent lesions created with non-perpendicular contact will be created. This work will provide insight into how lesion geometry, tissue composition, and fiber organization impact electrophysiological propagation.

  8. Simultaneous time-space resolved reflectivity and interferometric measurements of dielectrics excited with femtosecond laser pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garcia-Lechuga, M.; Haahr-Lillevang, L.; Siegel, J.; Balling, P.; Guizard, S.; Solis, J.

    2017-06-01

    Simultaneous time-and-space resolved reflectivity and interferometric measurements over a temporal span of 300 ps have been performed in fused silica and sapphire samples excited with 800 nm, 120 fs laser pulses at energies slightly and well above the ablation threshold. The experimental results have been simulated in the frame of a multiple-rate equation model including light propagation. The comparison of the temporal evolution of the reflectivity and the interferometric measurements at 400 nm clearly shows that the two techniques interrogate different material volumes during the course of the process. While the former is sensitive to the evolution of the plasma density in a very thin ablating layer at the surface, the second yields an averaged plasma density over a larger volume. It is shown that self-trapped excitons do not appreciably contribute to carrier relaxation in fused silica at fluences above the ablation threshold, most likely due to Coulomb screening effects at large excited carrier densities. For both materials, at fluences well above the ablation threshold, the maximum measured plasma reflectivity shows a saturation behavior consistent with a scattering rate proportional to the plasma density in this fluence regime. Moreover, for both materials and for pulse energies above the ablation threshold and delays in the few tens of picoseconds range, a simultaneous "low reflectivity" and "low transmission" behavior is observed. Although this behavior has been identified in the past as a signature of femtosecond laser-induced ablation, its origin is alternatively discussed in terms of the optical properties of a material undergoing strong isochoric heating, before having time to substantially expand or exchange energy with the surrounding media.

  9. Cardiac Ventricular HIFU: Convergence of Experiment and Theory in the Canine Model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muratore, Robert; Abe, Yukio; Homma, Shunichi; Bernardi, Richard; Kalisz, Andrew; Feleppa, Ernest J.

    2007-05-01

    OBJECTIVE: HIFU is a promising technique for treating cardiac ventricular diseases such as sustained ventricular tachycardia. Ablations can potentially destroy arrhythmogenic foci and block reentrant circuits. Towards this end, we have learned to control HIFU lesions in the canine model in vivo. METHODS: Experiment — Thoracotomies were performed on anesthetized dogs, following IACUC guidelines. In this open-chest configuration, a polyethylene water-filled bag was coupled to the myocardium with degassed ultrasound gel. The transducer was lowered into the water. Ventricular locations were targeted and insonified with multiple 200-ms HIFU bursts of 60-W acoustic power; the bursts were triggered with the electrocardiogram QRS complex. The therapeutic transducer was a 35-mm focal length, 33-mm diameter PZT annular array, excited at 5.25 MHz. Its -3dB focal region dimensions were 2.5 mm axially and 0.3 mm transversely. A confocal diagnostic transducer was used for aiming and for recording backscattered radiofrequency ultrasound data. Theory — A comprehensive acoustic model has been developed. Individual modules numerically simulate physical processes such as ultrasound beam propagation, energy transfer, and heat flow within tissue. One set of modules simulates HIFU ablation in moving tissue. Tissue motion was obtained from digitized B-mode videos of transverse cross sections of a beating canine heart. Epicardial and endocardial surface positions were extracted from the video frames. Additional simulations of static tissue compared linear and nonlinear propagation models. RESULTS: Significant agreement between simulated and measured lesion sizes and between linear and nonlinear propagation models was demonstrated.

  10. Imaging of acoustic waves induced by excimer laser ablation of the cornea

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rossi, Francesca; Pini, Roberto; Siano, Salvatore; Salimbeni, Renzo

    1996-12-01

    In this present study a pump-and-probe imaging set up was arranged to image and analyze the evolution of pressure waves induced by ArF ablation of the cornea, during their propagation into the eyeball. In vitro experiments simulating the effects of clinical PRK have been performed by using an artificial model of the human eyeball, composed of a cell filled with hyaluronic acid gel with a sample of freshly excised bovine cornea placed on the gel surface. LAser irradiation was provided at a fluence of 180 mJ/cm2. Irradiation spot diameters were varied in the range 2.0-5.0 mm. Images of the traveling acoustic waves evidenced diffraction effects, related to the diameter of laser spots on the corneal surface.

  11. Low charge state heavy ion production with sub-nanosecond laser.

    PubMed

    Kanesue, T; Kumaki, M; Ikeda, S; Okamura, M

    2016-02-01

    We have investigated laser ablation plasma of various species using nanosecond and sub-nanosecond lasers for both high and low charge state ion productions. We found that with sub-nanosecond laser, the generated plasma has a long tail which has low charge state ions determined by an electrostatic ion analyzer even under the laser irradiation condition for highly charged ion production. This can be caused by insufficient laser absorption in plasma plume. This property might be suitable for low charge state ion production. We used a nanosecond laser and a sub-nanosecond laser for low charge state ion production to investigate the difference of generated plasma using the Zirconium target.

  12. Low charge state heavy ion production with sub-nanosecond laser

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kanesue, T., E-mail: tkanesue@bnl.gov; Okamura, M.; Kumaki, M.

    2016-02-15

    We have investigated laser ablation plasma of various species using nanosecond and sub-nanosecond lasers for both high and low charge state ion productions. We found that with sub-nanosecond laser, the generated plasma has a long tail which has low charge state ions determined by an electrostatic ion analyzer even under the laser irradiation condition for highly charged ion production. This can be caused by insufficient laser absorption in plasma plume. This property might be suitable for low charge state ion production. We used a nanosecond laser and a sub-nanosecond laser for low charge state ion production to investigate the differencemore » of generated plasma using the Zirconium target.« less

  13. Fields in laser-ablated plasmas generalized to degenerate electrons and to Fermi energy in nuclei with change to quark-gluon plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hora, Heinrich; Miley, George H.; Osman, Frederick; Hammerling, Peter X.

    2004-09-01

    The studies of laser ablation have lead to a new theory of nuclei, endothermic nuclei generation and quark-gluon plasmas. The surface of ablated plasma expanding into vacuum after high power laser irradiation of targets, contains an electric double layer having the thickness of the Debye length. This led to the discovery of surface tension of plasmas and to the internal dynamic electric fields in all inhomogeneous plasmas. The surface causes stabilization by short length surface waves smoothing the expanding plasma plume. Generalizing this to the degenerate electrons in a metal with the Fermi energy instead of the temperature, resulted in the surface tension of metals in agreement with measurements. Taking then the Fermi energy in the Debye length for nucleons results in a theory of nuclei with stable confinement of protons and neutrons just at the well known nuclear density, and in the Debye length equal to Hofstadter's decay of the nuclear surface. Increasing the nuclear density by a factor of 6 leads to the change of the Fermi energy into its relativistic branch where no surface energy is possible and the particle mass is not defined, permitting the quark-gluon plasma. Expansion of this higher density at the big band or in a supernova results in nucleation and element generation. The Boltzmann equilibrium permits the synthesis of nuclei even in the endothermic range limited to about uranium.

  14. Anomalous mantle transition zone beneath the Yellowstone hotspot track

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Ying

    2018-06-01

    The origin of the Yellowstone and Snake River Plain volcanism has been strongly debated. The mantle plume model successfully explains the age-progressive volcanic track, but a deep plume structure has been absent in seismic imaging. Here I apply diffractional tomography to receiver functions recorded at USArray stations to map high-resolution topography of mantle transition-zone discontinuities. The images reveal a trail of anomalies that closely follow the surface hotspot track and correlate well with a seismic wave-speed gap in the subducting Farallon slab. This observation contradicts the plume model, which requires anomalies in the mid mantle to be confined in a narrow region directly beneath the present-day Yellowstone caldera. I propose an alternative interpretation of the Yellowstone volcanism. About 16 million years ago, a section of young slab that had broken off from a subducted spreading centre in the mantle first penetrated the 660 km discontinuity beneath Oregon and Idaho, and pulled down older stagnant slab. Slab tearing occurred along pre-existing fracture zones and propagated northeastward. This reversed-polarity subduction generated passive upwellings from the lower mantle, which ascended through a water-rich mantle transition zone to produce melting and age-progressive volcanism.

  15. Shuttle PRCS plume contamination analysis for Astro-2 mission

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wang, Francis C.; Greene, Cindy

    1993-01-01

    The Astro-2 mission scheduled for Jan. 1995 flight is co-manifested with the Spartan experiment. The Astro instrument array consists of several telescopes operating in the UV spectrum. To obtain the desired 300 observations with the telescope array in a shorter time than the Astro-1 mission, it will be necessary to use the primary reaction control system (PRCS) rather than just the Vernier reaction control system. The high mass flow rate of the PRCS engines cause considerable concern about contamination due to PRCS plume return flux. Performance of these instruments depends heavily on the environment they encounter. The ability of the optical system to detect a remote signal depends not only on the intensity of the incoming signal, but also on the ensuing transmission loss through the optical train of the instrument. Performance of these instruments is thus dependent on the properties of the optical surface and the medium through which it propagates. The on-orbit contamination environment will have a strong influence on the performance of these instruments. The finding of a two-month study of the molecular contamination environment of the Astro-2 instruments due to PRCS thruster plumes during the planned Astro-2 mission are summarized.

  16. Laser characterization of the unsteady 2-D ion flow field in a Hall thruster with breathing mode oscillations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lucca Fabris, Andrea; Young, Christopher; MacDonald-Tenenbaum, Natalia; Hargus, William, Jr.; Cappelli, Mark

    2016-10-01

    Hall thrusters are a mature form of electric propulsion for spacecraft. One commonly observed low frequency (10-50 kHz) discharge current oscillation in these E × B devices is the breathing mode, linked to a propagating ionization front traversing the channel. The complex time histories of ion production and acceleration in the discharge channel and near-field plume lead to interesting dynamics and interactions in the central plasma jet and downstream plume regions. A time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) diagnostic non-intrusively measures 2-D ion velocity and relative ion density throughout the plume of a commercial BHT-600 Hall thruster manufactured by Busek Co. Low velocity classes of ions observed in addition to the main accelerated population are linked to propellant ionization outside of the device. Effects of breathing mode dynamics are shown to persist far downstream where modulations in ion velocity and LIF intensity are correlated with discharge current oscillations. This work is sponsored by the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research with Dr. M. Birkan as program manager. C.Y. acknowledges support from the DOE NSSA Stewardship Science Graduate Fellowship under contract DE-FC52-08NA28752.

  17. The role of contact angle on unstable flow formation during infiltration and drainage in wettable porous media

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wallach, Rony; Margolis, Michal; Graber, Ellen R.

    2013-10-01

    The impact of contact angle on 2-D spatial and temporal water-content distribution during infiltration and drainage was experimentally studied. The 0.3-0.5 mm fraction of a quartz dune sand was treated and turned subcritically repellent (contact angle of 33°, 48°, 56°, and 75° for S33, S48, S56, and S75, respectively). The media were packed uniformly in transparent flow chambers and water was supplied to the surface as a point source at different rates (1-20 ml/min). A sequence of gray-value images was taken by CCD camera during infiltration and subsequent drainage; gray values were converted to volumetric water content by water volume balance. Narrow and long plumes with water accumulation behind the downward moving wetting front (tip) and negative water gradient above it (tail) developed in the S56 and S75 media during infiltration at lower water application rates. The plumes became bulbous with spatially uniform water-content distribution as water application rates increased. All plumes in these media propagated downward at a constant rate during infiltration and did not change their shape during drainage. In contrast, regular plume shapes were observed in the S33 and S48 media at all flow rates, and drainage profiles were nonmonotonic with a transition plane at the depth that water reached during infiltration. Given that the studied media have similar pore-size distributions, the conclusion is that imbibition hindered by the nonzero contact angle induced pressure buildup at the wetting front (dynamic water-entry value) that controlled the plume shape and internal water-content distribution during infiltration and drainage.

  18. Waves, Plumes and Bubbles from Jupiter Comet Impacts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Palotai, Csaba J.; Sankar, Ramanakumar; McCabe, Tyler; Korycansky, Donald

    2017-10-01

    We present results from our numerical simulations of jovian comet impacts that investigate various phases of the Shoemaker-Levy 9 (SL9) and the 2009 impacts into Jupiter's atmosphere. Our work includes a linked series of observationally constrained, three-dimensional radiative-hydrodynamic simulations to model the impact, plume blowout, plume flight/splash, and wave-propagation phases of those impact events. Studying these stages using a single model is challenging because the spatial and temporal scales and the temperature range of those phases may differ by orders of magnitudes (Harrington et al. 2004). In our simulations we model subsequent phases starting with the interpolation of the results of previous simulations onto a new, larger grid that is optimized for capturing all key physics of the relevant phenomena while maintaining computational efficiency. This enables us to carry out end-to-end simulations that require no ad-hoc initial conditions. In this work, we focus on the waves generated by various phenomena during the impact event and study the temporal evolution of their position and speed. In particular, we investigate the shocks generated by the impactor during atmospheric entry, the expansion of the ejected plume and the ascent of the hot bubble of material from terminal depth. These results are compared to the observed characteristics of the expanding SL9 rings (Hammel et al. 1995). Additionally, we present results from our sensitivity tests that focus on studying the differences in the ejecta plume generation using various impactor parameters (e.g., impact angle, impactor size, material, etc.). These simulations are used to explain various phenomena related to the SL9 event and to constrain the characteristics of the unknown 2009 impactor body. This research was supported by National Science Foundation Grant AST-1627409.

  19. AVAL - The ASTER Volcanic Ash Library

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Williams, D.; Ramsey, M. S.

    2016-12-01

    Volcanic ash is a rich data source for understanding the causal mechanisms behind volcanic eruptions. Petrologic and morphometric information can provide direct information on the characteristics of the parent magma. Understanding how erupted ash interacts with the atmosphere can help quantify the effect that explosive volcanism has on the local to regional climate, whereas a measure of the particle size distribution enables more accurate modeling of plume propagation. Remote sensing is regularly employed to monitor volcanic plumes using a suite of high temporal/low spatial resolution sensors. These methods employ radiative transfer modeling with assumptions of the transmissive properties of infrared energy through the plume to determine ash density, particle size and sulfur dioxide content. However, such approaches are limited to the optically-transparent regions, and the low spatial resolution data are only useful for large-scale trends. In a new approach, we are treating the infrared-opaque regions of the plume in a similar way to a solid emitting surface. This allows high spatial resolution orbital thermal infrared data from the dense proximal plume to be modeled using a linear deconvolution approach coupled with a spectral library to extract the particle size and petrology. The newly created ASTER Volcanic Ash Library (AVAL) provides the end member spectral suite, and is comprised of laboratory emission measurements of volcanic ash taken from a variety of different volcanic settings, to obtain a wide range of petrologies. These samples have been further subdivided into particle size fractions to account for spectral changes due to diffraction effects. Once mapped to the ASTER sensor's spectral resolution, this library is applied to image data and the plume deconvolved to estimate composition and particle size. We have analyzed eruptions at the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat, Chaitén and Puyehue-Cordón Caulle, both Chile, and Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland. These results provide particle size distributions within actively-erupting volcanic plumes for the first time in high resolution, and the petrologic information is being studied to understand the underlying eruptive processes observed.

  20. Standoff Detection of Uranium and its Isotopes by Femtosecond Filament Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hartig, Kyle C.; Ghebregziabher, Isaac; Jovanovic, Igor

    The ability to perform not only elementally but also isotopically sensitive detection and analysis at standoff distances is important for remote sensing applications in diverse ares, such as nuclear nonproliferation, environmental monitoring, geophysics, and planetary science. We demonstrate isotopically sensitive real-time standoff detection of uranium by the use of femtosecond filament-induced laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry. A uranium oxide molecular emission isotope shift of 0.05 ± 0.007 nm is reported at 593.6 nm. We implement both spectroscopic and acoustic diagnostics to characterize the properties of uranium plasma generated at different filament- uranium interaction points. The resulting uranium oxide emission exhibitsmore » a nearly constant signal-to-background ratio over the length of the filament, unlike the uranium atomic and ionic emission, for which the signal-to-background ratio varies significantly along the filament propagation. This is explained by the different rates of increase of plasma density and uranium oxide density along the filament length resulting from spectral and temporal evolution of the filament along its propagation. Lastly, the results provide a basis for the optimal use of filaments for standoff detection and analysis of uranium isotopes and indicate the potential of the technique for a wider range of remote sensing applications that require isotopic sensitivity.« less

  1. Standoff Detection of Uranium and its Isotopes by Femtosecond Filament Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry

    PubMed Central

    Hartig, Kyle C.; Ghebregziabher, Isaac; Jovanovic, Igor

    2017-01-01

    The ability to perform not only elementally but also isotopically sensitive detection and analysis at standoff distances is impor-tant for remote sensing applications in diverse ares, such as nuclear nonproliferation, environmental monitoring, geophysics, and planetary science. We demonstrate isotopically sensitive real-time standoff detection of uranium by the use of femtosecond filament-induced laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry. A uranium oxide molecular emission isotope shift of 0.05 ± 0.007 nm is reported at 593.6 nm. We implement both spectroscopic and acoustic diagnostics to characterize the properties of uranium plasma generated at different filament-uranium interaction points. The resulting uranium oxide emis-sion exhibits a nearly constant signal-to-background ratio over the length of the filament, unlike the uranium atomic and ionic emission, for which the signal-to-background ratio varies significantly along the filament propagation. This is explained by the different rates of increase of plasma density and uranium oxide density along the filament length resulting from spectral and temporal evolution of the filament along its propagation. The results provide a basis for the optimal use of filaments for standoff detection and analysis of uranium isotopes and indicate the potential of the technique for a wider range of remote sensing applications that require isotopic sensitivity. PMID:28272450

  2. Standoff Detection of Uranium and its Isotopes by Femtosecond Filament Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry

    DOE PAGES

    Hartig, Kyle C.; Ghebregziabher, Isaac; Jovanovic, Igor

    2017-03-08

    The ability to perform not only elementally but also isotopically sensitive detection and analysis at standoff distances is important for remote sensing applications in diverse ares, such as nuclear nonproliferation, environmental monitoring, geophysics, and planetary science. We demonstrate isotopically sensitive real-time standoff detection of uranium by the use of femtosecond filament-induced laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry. A uranium oxide molecular emission isotope shift of 0.05 ± 0.007 nm is reported at 593.6 nm. We implement both spectroscopic and acoustic diagnostics to characterize the properties of uranium plasma generated at different filament- uranium interaction points. The resulting uranium oxide emission exhibitsmore » a nearly constant signal-to-background ratio over the length of the filament, unlike the uranium atomic and ionic emission, for which the signal-to-background ratio varies significantly along the filament propagation. This is explained by the different rates of increase of plasma density and uranium oxide density along the filament length resulting from spectral and temporal evolution of the filament along its propagation. Lastly, the results provide a basis for the optimal use of filaments for standoff detection and analysis of uranium isotopes and indicate the potential of the technique for a wider range of remote sensing applications that require isotopic sensitivity.« less

  3. Standoff Detection of Uranium and its Isotopes by Femtosecond Filament Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hartig, Kyle C.; Ghebregziabher, Isaac; Jovanovic, Igor

    2017-03-01

    The ability to perform not only elementally but also isotopically sensitive detection and analysis at standoff distances is impor-tant for remote sensing applications in diverse ares, such as nuclear nonproliferation, environmental monitoring, geophysics, and planetary science. We demonstrate isotopically sensitive real-time standoff detection of uranium by the use of femtosecond filament-induced laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry. A uranium oxide molecular emission isotope shift of 0.05 ± 0.007 nm is reported at 593.6 nm. We implement both spectroscopic and acoustic diagnostics to characterize the properties of uranium plasma generated at different filament-uranium interaction points. The resulting uranium oxide emis-sion exhibits a nearly constant signal-to-background ratio over the length of the filament, unlike the uranium atomic and ionic emission, for which the signal-to-background ratio varies significantly along the filament propagation. This is explained by the different rates of increase of plasma density and uranium oxide density along the filament length resulting from spectral and temporal evolution of the filament along its propagation. The results provide a basis for the optimal use of filaments for standoff detection and analysis of uranium isotopes and indicate the potential of the technique for a wider range of remote sensing applications that require isotopic sensitivity.

  4. Evaluation of electrical propagation delay with cardiomyocytes by photosensitization reaction in vitro

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Doi, Marika; Ogawa, Emiyu; Arai, Tsunenori

    2017-02-01

    In order to study cardiomyocyte electrical conduction damage by a photosensitization reaction (PR) mostly comes from outside of the cells in a few minutes after the PR, we studied propagation delay of contact action potential with cardiomyocyte by the PR. To determine appropriate PR condition for tachyarrhythmia ablation, a precise electrophysiological experiment in vitro has been preferable. We measured the contact action potential using a microelectrode array system of which information may be correct than conventional Ca2+ measurement. We investigated the propagation delays of an evoked potential to evaluate the electrical conduction damage by the PR. Rat cardiomyocytes were cultivated for 5-7 days on a dish with which 64 electrodes were patterned, in an incubator controlled to 37°C, 5% CO2. The following conditions were used for the PR: 40 μg/ml talapordfin sodium and 290 mW/cm2, 40-78 J/cm2 for an irradiation. A 2D map was obtained to visualize the propagation delays of the evoked potential. The propagation speed, which was calculated based on the measured propagation delays, was decreased by about 30-50% on average of all electrodes after the PR. Therefore, we think 2D propagation delays measurement of the evoked potential with contact action potential measuring system might be available to evaluate the acute electrical conduction damage of cardiomyocyte by the PR.

  5. Mechanisms of carbon dimer formation in colliding laser-produced carbon plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sizyuk, Tatyana; Oliver, John; Diwakar, Prasoon K.

    2017-07-01

    It has been demonstrated that the hot stagnation region formed during the collision of laser-produced carbon plasmas is rich with carbon dimers which have been shown to be synthesized into large carbon macromolecules such as carbon fullerene onions and nanotubes. In this study, we developed and integrated experimental and multidimensional modeling techniques to access the temporal and spatial resolution of colliding plasma characteristics that elucidated the mechanism for early carbon dimer formation. Plume evolution imaging, monochromatic imaging, and optical emission spectroscopy of graphite-produced, carbon plasmas were performed. Experimental results were compared with the results of the 3D comprehensive modeling using our HEIGHTS simulation package. The results are explained based on a fundamental analysis of plasma evolution, colliding layer formation, stagnation, and expansion. The precise mechanisms of the plasma collision, plume propagation, and particle formation are discussed based on the experimental and modeling results.

  6. Elastic plate flexure above mantle plumes explains the upstream offset of volcanic activity at la Réunion and Hawaii

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gerbault, Muriel; Fontaine, Fabrice; Rabinowicz, Michel; Bystricky, Micha

    2017-04-01

    Surface volcanism at la Réunion and Hawaii occurs with an offset of 150-180 km upstream to the plume axis with respect to the plate motion. This striking observation raises questions about the forcing of plume-lithosphere thermo-mechanical interactions on melt trajectories beneath these islands. Based on visco-elasto-plastic numerical models handled at kilometric resolution, we propose to explain this offset by the development of compressional stresses at the base of the lithosphere, that result from elastic plate bending above the upward load exerted by the plume head. This horizontal compression adopts a disc shape centered around the plume axis, 20 km thick and 150 km in radius, at 50-70 km depth where the temperature varies from 600°C to 750°C. It lasts for 5 to 10 My in an oceanic plate of age greater than 70 My, a timing that is controlled by the visco-elastic relaxation time at 50-70 km depth. This period of time exceeds the time during which both the Somalian/East-African and Pacific plates drift over the Reunion and Hawaii plumes, respectively, thus rendering this basal compression a persistent feature. It is inferred that the buoyant melts percolating in the plume head pond below this zone of compression and eventually spread laterally until the most compressive principal elastic stresses reverse to the vertical, i.e., 150 km away from the plume head. There, melts propagate through dikes upwards to 35 km depth, where the plate curvature reverses and ambient compression diminishes. This 30-35 km depth may thus host magmatic reservoirs where melts pond, until further differentiation can relaunch ascension up to the surface and form a volcanic edifice. In a second stage, as the volcano grows because of melt accumulation at the top of the plate, the lithosphere is flexed downwards, inducing extra tensile stress at 30-35 km depth and compression at 15 km depth. It implies that now the melts pond at 15 km and form another magmatic reservoir lying just underneath the crust. These two processes explain the ponding of primary (shield) melts at 35 km and 15 km depths as partialy recorded below La Reunion, Mauritius or Hawaii volcanoes with seismic tomography.

  7. The role of unsteady buoyancy flux on transient eruption plume velocity structure and evolution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chojnicki, K. N.; Clarke, A. B.; Phillips, J. C.

    2010-12-01

    Volcanic vent exit velocities, eruption column velocity profiles, and atmospheric entrainment are important parameters that control the evolution of explosive volcanic eruption plumes. New data sets tracking short-term variability in such parameters are becoming more abundant in volcanology and are being used to indirectly estimate eruption source conditions such vent flux, material properties of the plume, and source mechanisms. However, inadequate theory describing the relationships between time-varying source fluxes and evolution of unsteady turbulent flows such as eruption plumes, limits the interpretation potential of these data sets. In particular, the relative roles of gas-thrust and buoyancy in volcanic explosions is known to generate distinct differences in the ascent dynamics. Here we investigate the role of initial buoyancy in unsteady, short-duration eruption dynamics through scaled laboratory experiments and provide an empirical description of the relationship between unsteady source flux and plume evolution. The experiments involved source fluids of various densities (960-1000 kg/m3) injected, with a range of initial momentum and buoyancy, into a tank of fresh water through a range of vent diameters (3-15 mm). A scaled analysis was used to determine the fundamental parameters governing the evolution of the laboratory plumes as a function of unsteady source conditions. The subsequent model can be applied to predict flow front propagation speeds, and maximum flow height and width of transient volcanic eruption plumes which can not be adequately described by existing steady approximations. In addition, the model describes the relative roles of momentum or gas-thrust and buoyancy in plume motion which is suspected to be a key parameter in quantitatively defining explosive eruption style. The velocity structure of the resulting flows was measured using the Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique in which velocity vector fields were generated from displacements in time-resolved video images of particles in the flow interior. Cross-sectional profiles of vertical velocity and entrainment of ambient fluid were characterized using the resulting velocity vector maps. These data elucidate the relationship between flow front velocity and internal velocity structure which may improve interpretations of field measurements of volcanic explosions. The velocity maps also demonstrate the role of buoyancy in enhancing ambient entrainment and converting vertical velocity to horizontal velocity, which may explain why buoyancy at the vent leads to faster deceleration of the flow.

  8. Electrode Configurations in Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lietz, Amanda M.; Kushner, Mark J.

    2016-09-01

    Atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are being studied for emerging medical applications including cancer treatment and wound healing. APPJs typically consist of a dielectric tube through which a rare gas flows, sometimes with an O2 or H2O impurity. In this paper, we present results from a computational study of APPJs using nonPDPSIM, a 2-D plasma hydrodynamics model, with the goal of providing insights on how the placement of electrodes can influence the production of reactive species. Gas consisting of He/O2 = 99.5/0.5 is flowed through a capillary tube at 2 slpm into humid air, and a pulsed DC voltage is applied. An APPJ with two external ring electrodes will be compared with one having a powered electrode inside and a ground electrode on the outside. The consequences on ionization wave propagation and the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) will be discussed. Changing the electrode configuration can concentrate the power deposition in volumes having different gas composition, resulting in different RONS production. An internal electrode can result in increased production of NOx and HNOx by increasing propagation of the ionization wave through the He dominated plume to outside of the tube where humid air is diffusing into the plume. Work supported by US DOE Office of Fusion Energy Science and the National Science Foundation.

  9. Direct observation of impact propagation and absorption in dense colloidal monolayers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Buttinoni, Ivo; Cha, Jinwoong; Lin, Wei-Hsun; Job, Stéphane; Daraio, Chiara; Isa, Lucio

    2017-11-01

    Dense colloidal suspensions can propagate and absorb large mechanical stresses, including impacts and shocks. The wave transport stems from the delicate interplay between the spatial arrangement of the structural units and solvent-mediated effects. For dynamic microscopic systems, elastic deformations of the colloids are usually disregarded due to the damping imposed by the surrounding fluid. Here, we study the propagation of localized mechanical pulses in aqueous monolayers of micron-sized particles of controlled microstructure. We generate extreme localized deformation rates by exciting a target particle via pulsed-laser ablation. In crystalline monolayers, stress propagation fronts take place, where fast-moving particles (V approximately a few meters per second) are aligned along the symmetry axes of the lattice. Conversely, more viscous solvents and disordered structures lead to faster and isotropic energy absorption. Our results demonstrate the accessibility of a regime where elastic collisions also become relevant for suspensions of microscopic particles, behaving as “billiard balls” in a liquid, in analogy with regular packings of macroscopic spheres. We furthermore quantify the scattering of an impact as a function of the local structural disorder.

  10. Direct observation of impact propagation and absorption in dense colloidal monolayers

    PubMed Central

    Cha, Jinwoong; Lin, Wei-Hsun; Job, Stéphane; Daraio, Chiara

    2017-01-01

    Dense colloidal suspensions can propagate and absorb large mechanical stresses, including impacts and shocks. The wave transport stems from the delicate interplay between the spatial arrangement of the structural units and solvent-mediated effects. For dynamic microscopic systems, elastic deformations of the colloids are usually disregarded due to the damping imposed by the surrounding fluid. Here, we study the propagation of localized mechanical pulses in aqueous monolayers of micron-sized particles of controlled microstructure. We generate extreme localized deformation rates by exciting a target particle via pulsed-laser ablation. In crystalline monolayers, stress propagation fronts take place, where fast-moving particles (V approximately a few meters per second) are aligned along the symmetry axes of the lattice. Conversely, more viscous solvents and disordered structures lead to faster and isotropic energy absorption. Our results demonstrate the accessibility of a regime where elastic collisions also become relevant for suspensions of microscopic particles, behaving as “billiard balls” in a liquid, in analogy with regular packings of macroscopic spheres. We furthermore quantify the scattering of an impact as a function of the local structural disorder. PMID:29087329

  11. The PSA−/lo prostate cancer cell population harbors self-renewing long-term tumor-propagating cells that resist castration

    PubMed Central

    Qin, Jichao; Liu, Xin; Laffin, Brian; Chen, Xin; Choy, Grace; Jeter, Collene; Calhoun-Davis, Tammy; Li, Hangwen; Palapattu, Ganesh S.; Pang, Shen; Lin, Kevin; Huang, Jiaoti; Ivanov, Ivan; Li, Wei; Suraneni, Mahipal V.; Tang, Dean G.

    2012-01-01

    SUMMARY Prostate cancer (PCa) is heterogeneous and contains both differentiated and undifferentiated tumor cells, but the relative functional contribution of these two cell populations remains unclear. Here we report distinct molecular, cellular, and tumor-propagating properties of PCa cells that express high (PSA+) and low (PSA−/lo) levels of the differentiation marker PSA. PSA−/lo PCa cells are quiescent and refractory to stresses including androgen deprivation, exhibit high clonogenic potential, and possess long-term tumor-propagating capacity. They preferentially express stem cell genes and can undergo asymmetric cell division generating PSA+ cells. Importantly, PSA−/lo PCa cells can initiate robust tumor development and resist androgen ablation in castrated hosts, and harbor highly tumorigenic castration-resistant PCa cells that can be prospectively enriched using ALDH+CD44+α2β1+ phenotype. In contrast, PSA+ PCa cells possess more limited tumor-propagating capacity, undergo symmetric division and are sensitive to castration. Together, our study suggests PSA−/lo cells may represent a critical source of castration-resistant PCa cells. PMID:22560078

  12. Near-vacuum hohlraums for driving fusion implosions with high density carbon ablatorsa)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berzak Hopkins, L. F.; Le Pape, S.; Divol, L.; Meezan, N. B.; Mackinnon, A. J.; Ho, D. D.; Jones, O. S.; Khan, S.; Milovich, J. L.; Ross, J. S.; Amendt, P.; Casey, D.; Celliers, P. M.; Pak, A.; Peterson, J. L.; Ralph, J.; Rygg, J. R.

    2015-05-01

    Recent experiments at the National Ignition Facility [M. J. Edwards et al., Phys. Plasmas 20, 070501 (2013)] have explored driving high-density carbon ablators with near-vacuum hohlraums, which use a minimal amount of helium gas fill. These hohlraums show improved efficiency relative to conventional gas-filled hohlraums in terms of minimal backscatter, minimal generation of suprathermal electrons, and increased hohlraum-capsule coupling. Given these advantages, near-vacuum hohlraums are a promising choice for pursuing high neutron yield implosions. Long pulse symmetry control, though, remains a challenge, as the hohlraum volume fills with material. Two mitigation methodologies have been explored, dynamic beam phasing and increased case-to-capsule ratio (larger hohlraum size relative to capsule). Unexpectedly, experiments have demonstrated that the inner laser beam propagation is better than predicted by nominal simulations, and an enhanced beam propagation model is required to match measured hot spot symmetry. Ongoing work is focused on developing a physical model which captures this enhanced propagation and on utilizing the enhanced propagation to drive longer laser pulses than originally predicted in order to reach alpha-heating dominated neutron yields.

  13. Temporally and spatially resolved plasma spectroscopy in pulsed laser deposition of ultra-thin boron nitride films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Glavin, Nicholas R., E-mail: nicholas.glavin.1@us.af.mil, E-mail: andrey.voevodin@us.af.mil; School of Mechanical Engineering and Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907; Muratore, Christopher

    2015-04-28

    Physical vapor deposition (PVD) has recently been investigated as a viable, alternative growth technique for two-dimensional materials with multiple benefits over other vapor deposition synthesis methods. The high kinetic energies and chemical reactivities of the condensing species formed from PVD processes can facilitate growth over large areas and at reduced substrate temperatures. In this study, chemistry, kinetic energies, time of flight data, and spatial distributions within a PVD plasma plume ablated from a boron nitride (BN) target by a KrF laser at different pressures of nitrogen gas were investigated. Time resolved spectroscopy and wavelength specific imaging were used to identifymore » and track atomic neutral and ionized species including B{sup +}, B*, N{sup +}, N*, and molecular species including N{sub 2}*, N{sub 2}{sup +}, and BN. Formation and decay of these species formed both from ablation of the target and from interactions with the background gas were investigated and provided insights into fundamental growth mechanisms of continuous, amorphous boron nitride thin films. The correlation of the plasma diagnostic results with film chemical composition and thickness uniformity studies helped to identify that a predominant mechanism for BN film formation is condensation surface recombination of boron ions and neutral atomic nitrogen species. These species arrive nearly simultaneously to the substrate location, and BN formation occurs microseconds before arrival of majority of N{sup +} ions generated by plume collisions with background molecular nitrogen. The energetic nature and extended dwelling time of incident N{sup +} ions at the substrate location was found to negatively impact resulting BN film stoichiometry and thickness. Growth of stoichiometric films was optimized at enriched concentrations of ionized boron and neutral atomic nitrogen in plasma near the condensation surface, providing few nanometer thick films with 1:1 BN stoichiometry and good thicknesses uniformity over macroscopic areas.« less

  14. Constraining the Enceladus plume using numerical simulation and Cassini data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yeoh, Seng Keat; Li, Zheng; Goldstein, David B.; Varghese, Philip L.; Levin, Deborah A.; Trafton, Laurence M.

    2017-01-01

    Since its discovery, the Enceladus plume has been subjected to intense study due to the major effects that it has on the Saturnian system and the window that it provides into the interior of Enceladus. However, several questions remain and we attempt to answer some of them in this work. In particular, we aim to constrain the H2O production rate from the plume, evaluate the relative importance of the jets and the distributed sources along the Tiger Stripes, and make inferences about the source of the plume by accurately modeling the plume and constraining the model using the Cassini INMS and UVIS data. This is an extension of a previous work (Yeoh, S.K., et al. [2015] Icarus, 253, 205-222) in which we only modeled the collisional part of the Enceladus plume and studied its important physical processes. In this work, we propagate the plume farther into space where the flow has become free-molecular and the Cassini INMS and UVIS data were sampled. Then, we fit this part of the plume to the INMS H2O density distributions sampled along the E3, E5 and E7 trajectories and also compare some of the fit results with the UVIS measurements of the plume optical depth collected during the solar occultation observation on 18 May 2010. We consider several vent conditions and source configurations for the plume. By constraining our model using the INMS and UVIS data, we estimate H2O production rates of several hundred kgs-1: 400-500 kg/s during the E3 and E7 flybys and ∼900 kg/s during the E5 flyby. These values agree with other estimates and are consistent with the observed temporal variability of the plume over the orbital period of Enceladus (Hedman, M.M., et al. [2013] Nature, 500, 182-184). In addition, we determine that one of the Tiger Stripes, Cairo, exhibits a local temporal variability consistent with the observed overall temporal variability of the plume. We also find that the distributed sources along the Tiger Stripes are likely dominant while the jets provide a lesser contribution. Moreover, our best-fit solutions for the plume are sensitive to the vent conditions chosen. The spreading angle of the jet produced is the main difference among the vent conditions and thus it appears to be an important parameter in fitting to these INMS data sets. In general, we find that narrow jets produce better fits, suggesting high Mach numbers (> 5) at the vents. This is supported by certain narrow features believed to be jets in both the INMS and UVIS data sets. This tends to rule out sublimation from the surface but points to a deep underground source for the plume. However, the underground source can be either sublimation from an icy reservoir or evaporation from a liquid reservoir. A high Mach number at the vent also suggests subsurface channels with large variations in width and not fairly straight channels so that the gas can undergo sufficient expansion. Additionally, the broad spreading angles inferred for the μm-sized grains (Ingersoll, A.P. and Ewald, S.P. [2011] Icarus, 216, 492-506; Postberg, F., et al. [2011] Nature, 474, 620-622) cannot be due to spreading by the gas above the surface alone. Some other mechanism(s) must also be responsible, perhaps occurring below the surface, which further points to an underground source for the plume.

  15. Low- and high-order harmonic generation in the extended plasmas produced by laser ablation of zinc and manganese targets

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ganeev, R. A., E-mail: rashid-ganeev@mail.ru; Physical Department, Voronezh State University, Voronezh 394006; Baba, M.

    The systematic studies of the harmonic generation of ultrashort laser pulses in the 5-mm-long Zn and Mn plasmas (i.e., application of nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond pulses for ablation, comparison of harmonic generation from atomic, ionic, and cluster-contained species of plasma, variation of plasma length, two-color pump of plasmas, etc.) are presented. The conversion efficiency of the 11th–19th harmonics generated in the Zn plasma was ∼5 × 10{sup −5}. The role of the ionic resonances of Zn near the 9th and 10th harmonics on the enhancement of harmonics is discussed. The enhancement of harmonics was also analyzed using the two-color pump of extendedmore » plasmas, which showed similar intensities of the odd and even harmonics along the whole range of generation. The harmonics up to the 107th order were demonstrated in the case of manganese plasma. The comparison of harmonic generation in the 5-mm-long and commonly used short (≤0.5 mm) plasma plumes showed the advanced properties of extended media.« less

  16. Au nanostructure fabrication by pulsed laser deposition in open air: Influence of the deposition geometry.

    PubMed

    Nikov, Rumen G; Dikovska, Anna Og; Nedyalkov, Nikolay N; Avdeev, Georgi V; Atanasov, Petar A

    2017-01-01

    We present a fast and flexible method for the fabrication of Au nanocolumns. Au nanostructures were produced by pulsed laser deposition in air at atmospheric pressure. No impurities or Au compounds were detected in the resulting samples. The nanoparticles and nanoaggregates produced in the ablated plasma at atmospheric pressure led to the formation of chain-like nanostructures on the substrate. The dependence of the surface morphology of the samples on the deposition geometry used in the experimental set up was studied. Nanocolumns of different size and density were produced by varying the angle between the plasma plume and the substrate. The electrical, optical, and hydrophobic properties of the samples were studied and discussed in relation to their morphology. All of the nanostructures were conductive, with conductivity increasing with the accumulation of ablated material on the substrate. The modification of the electrical properties of the nanostructures was demonstrated by irradiation by infrared light. The Au nanostructures fabricated by the proposed technology are difficult to prepare by other methods, which makes the simple implementation and realization in ambient conditions presented in this work more ideal for industrial applications.

  17. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sherlock, M.; Brodrick, J. P.; Ridgers, C. P.

    Here, we compare the reduced non-local electron transport model developed to Vlasov-Fokker-Planck simulations. Two new test cases are considered: the propagation of a heat wave through a high density region into a lower density gas, and a one-dimensional hohlraum ablation problem. We find that the reduced model reproduces the peak heat flux well in the ablation region but significantly over-predicts the coronal preheat. The suitability of the reduced model for computing non-local transport effects other than thermal conductivity is considered by comparing the computed distribution function to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck distribution function. It is shown that even when the reduced modelmore » reproduces the correct heat flux, the distribution function is significantly different to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck prediction. Two simple modifications are considered which improve agreement between models in the coronal region.« less

  18. Modelling Middle Infrared Thermal Imagery from Observed or Simulated Active Fire

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Paugam, R.; Gastellu-Etchegorry, J. P.; Mell, W.; Johnston, J.; Filippi, J. B.

    2016-12-01

    The Fire Radiative Power (FRP) is used in the atmospheric and fire communities to estimate fire emission. For example, the current version of the emission inventory GFAS is using FRP observation from the MODIS sensors to derive daily global distribution of fire emissions. Although the FRP product is widely accepted, most of its theoretical justifications are still based on small scale burns. When up-scaling to large fires effects of view angle, canopy cover, or smoke absorption are still unknown. To cover those questions, we are building a system based on the DART radiative transfer model to simulate the middle infrared radiance emitted by a propagating fire front and propagating in the surrounding scene made of ambient vegetation and plume aerosols. The current version of the system was applied to fire ranging from a 1m2 to 7ha. The 3D fire scene used as input in DART is made of the flame, the vegetation (burnt and unburnt), and the plume. It can be either set up from [i] 3D physical based model scene (ie WFDS, mainly applicable for small scale burn), [ii] coupled 2D fire spread - atmospheric models outputs (eg ForeFire-MesoNH) or [iii] derived from thermal imageries observations (here plume effects are not considered). In the last two cases, as the complexity of physical processes occurring in the flame (in particular soot formation and emission) is not to solved, the flames structures are parameterized with (a) temperature and soot concentration based on empirical derived profiles and (b) 3D triangular shape hull interpolated at the fire front location. Once the 3D fire scene is set up, DART is then used to render thermal imageries in the middle infrared. Using data collected from burns conducted at different scale, the modelled thermal imageries are compared against observations, and effects of view angle are discussed.

  19. Toward Development of a Field-Deployable Imaging Device for TBI

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-03-01

    growing in importance for breast cancer diagnoses.5 One elastographic method evaluates tissue stiffness by analyzing the rate of propagation of mechani...2007). This rapid temperature rise can denature tissue, useful for “cooking” cancer cells as a way to kill them, or even vaporize tissue, useful for...ablation- based therapies for killing cancer , or for re-opening passages within the body, for Mourad PD (2013), “Therapeutic Ultrasound, with an

  20. Nutrient Pumping/Advection by Propagating Rossby Waves in the Kuroshio Extension

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-01-01

    sea-elevation changes or SLA variance levels are a maximum as eddies and meanders cross a mean route. This boundary in terms of Chl- a levels (lower...and elevated Chl- a levels ) is south of the KE jet. Kuroshio Extension meanders and rings carry different water types across a mean Kuroshio Extension...Fig. 5A). The ring or eddy currents may also redistribute the surface Chl- a levels , drawing out plumes of locally increased Chl-a from regions of

  1. UV/IR Filaments for High Resolution Novel Spectroscopic Interrogation of Plumes on Nuclear Materials

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-06-01

    Understanding the physics and properties of high power filaments propagating in air, which include: (a) Femtosecond IR (mJ) filaments (b) Nanosecond UV (J...space and wavelength can resolve this controversy. The results have been published in Journal of Physics B, special issue on filamentation [19]. Only a...Raman scattering? 3. What is the impact of filamentation on the ratio of backward to forward Raman? 4. What is the physical origin/content of the

  2. Advanced properties of extended plasmas for efficient high-order harmonic generation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ganeev, R. A.; Physics Department, Voronezh State University, Voronezh 394006; Suzuki, M.

    We demonstrate the advanced properties of extended plasma plumes (5 mm) for efficient harmonic generation of laser radiation compared with the short lengths of plasmas (∼0.3–0.5 mm) used in previous studies. The harmonic conversion efficiency quadratically increased with the growth of plasma length. The studies of this process along the whole extreme ultraviolet range using the long plasma jets produced on various metal surfaces, particularly including the resonance-enhanced laser frequency conversion and two-color pump, are presented. Such plasmas could be used for the quasi-phase matching experiments by proper modulation of the spatial characteristics of extended ablating area and formation of separated plasmamore » jets.« less

  3. Stone retropulsion during holmium:YAG lithotripsy.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ho; Ryan, R Tres; Teichman, Joel M H; Kim, Jeehyun; Choi, Bernard; Arakeri, Navanit V; Welch, A J

    2003-03-01

    We modeled retropulsion during holmium:YAG lithotripsy on the conservation of momentum, whereby the force of ejected fragment debris off of the calculous surface should equal the force of retropulsion displacing the stone. We tested the hypothesis that retropulsion occurs as a result of ejected stone debris. Uniform calculous phantoms were irradiated with holmium:YAG energy in air and in water. Optical fiber diameter and pulse energy were varied. Motion of the phantom was monitored with high speed video imaging. Laser induced crater volume and geometry were characterized by optical coherence tomography. To determine the direction of plume laser burn paper was irradiated at various incident angles. Retropulsion was greater for phantoms irradiated in air versus water. Retropulsion increased as fiber diameter increased and as pulse energy increased (p <0.001). Crater volumes increased as pulse energy increased (p <0.05) and generally increased as fiber diameter increased. Crater geometry was wide and shallow for larger fibers, and narrow and deeper for smaller fibers. The ejected plume propagated in the direction normal to the burn paper surface regardless of the laser incident angle. Retropulsion increases as pulse energy and optical fiber diameter increase. Vector analysis of the ejected plume and crater geometry explains increased retropulsion using larger optical fibers. Holmium:YAG lithotripsy should be performed with small optical fibers to limit retropulsion.

  4. Coldspots or hotspots? The origin of plateau-shaped highlands on Venus

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bindschadler, D. L.

    1992-01-01

    A compelling question for the terrestrial planets is the origin of the highland regions on Venus. Data on the topography, gravity signature, and surface morphology returned by the Pioneer Venus, Venera 15/16, and Magellan spacecraft represent a basis for dividing these highlands into two distinct groups: volcanic rises and plateau-shaped highlands. Volcanic rises are generally thought to be due to mantle upwellings in the form of large mantle plumes and are thus similar in origin to terrestrial hotspots. There is less agreement as to the origin of plateau-shaped highlands (PSH). Coldspot mantle downwelling can lead to the formation of a highland region under Venus conditions, and previous to Magellan some PSH (particularly W. Ishtar Terra and Ovda and Thetis Regiones) were suggested to be compressionally deformed regions of thickened crust created by mantle downwelling. A hotspot model proposes that such regions are formed by magmatism and tectonism related to the near-surface ascent of either the diapir-shaped large mantle plume or a solitary disturbance propagating up a plume conduit. The characteristics of both volcanic rises and plateau-shaped highlands on Venus and the models for their formation are briefly reviewed, and tests that may help to make clear which model best explains the plateau-shaped highlands are considered.

  5. Investigation into the optimum beam shape and fluence for selective ablation of dental calculus at lambda = 400 nm.

    PubMed

    Schoenly, Joshua E; Seka, Wolf; Rechmann, Peter

    2010-01-01

    A frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is shown to selectively ablate dental calculus. The optimal transverse shape of the laser beam, including its variability under water-cooling, is determined for selective ablation of dental calculus. Intensity profiles under various water-cooling conditions were optically observed. The 400-nm laser was coupled into a multimode optical fiber using an f = 2.5-cm lens and light-shaping diffuser. Water-cooling was supplied coaxially around the fiber. Five human tooth samples (four with calculus and one pristine) were irradiated perpendicular to the tooth surface while the tooth was moved back and forth at 0.3 mm/second, varying between 20 and 180 iterations. The teeth were imaged before and after irradiation using light microscopy with a flashing blue light-emitting diode (LED). An environmental scanning electron microscope imaged each tooth after irradiation. High-order super-Gaussian intensity profiles are observed at the output of a fiber coiled around a 4-in. diameter drum. Super-Gaussian beams have a more-homogenous fluence distribution than Gaussian beams and have a higher energy efficiency for selective ablation. Coaxial water-cooling does not noticeably distort the intensity distribution within 1 mm from the optical fiber. In contrast, lasers focused to a Gaussian cross section (< or =50-microm diameter) without fiber propagation and cooled by a water spray are heavily distorted and may lead to variable ablation. Calculus is preferentially ablated at high fluences (> or =2 J/cm(2)); below this fluence, stalling occurs because of photo-bleaching of the calculus. Healthy dental hard tissue is not removed at fluences < or =3 J/cm(2). Supplying laser light to a tooth using an optical fiber with coaxial water-cooling is determined to be the most appropriate method when selectively removing calculus with a frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser. Fluences over 2 J/cm(2) are required to remove calculus efficiently since photo-bleaching stalls calculus removal below that value.

  6. Investigation Into the Optimum Beam Shape and Fluence for Selective Ablation of Dental Calculus at lambda = 400 nm

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schoenly, J.E.; Seka. W.; Rechmann, P.

    A frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is shown to selectively ablate dental calculus. The optimal transverse shape of the laser beam, including its variability under water-cooling, is determined for selective ablation of dental calculus. Intensity profiles under various water-cooling conditions were optically observed. The 400-nm laser was coupled into a multimode optical fiber using an f = 2.5-cm lens and light-shaping diffuser. Water-cooling was supplied coaxially around the fiber. Five human tooth samples (four with calculus and one pristine) were irradiated perpendicular to the tooth surface while the tooth was moved back and forth at 0.3 mm/second, varying between 20 and 180more » iterations. The teeth were imaged before and after irradiation using light microscopy with a flashing blue light-emitting diode (LED). An environmental scanning electron microscope imaged each tooth after irradiation. High-order super-Gaussian intensity profiles are observed at the output of a fiber coiled around a 4-in. diameter drum. Super-Gaussian beams have a morehomogenous fluence distribution than Gaussian beams and have a higher energy efficiency for selective ablation. Coaxial water-cooling does not noticeably distort the intensity distribution within 1 mm from the optical fiber. In contrast, lasers focused to a Gaussian cross section (<=50-mm diameter) without fiber propagation and cooled by a water spray are heavily distorted and may lead to variable ablation. Calculus is preferentially ablated at high fluences (>= 2 J/cm^2); below this fluence, stalling occurs because of photo-bleaching of the calculus. Healthy dental hard tissue is not removed at fluences <=3 J/cm^2. Supplying laser light to a tooth using an optical fiber with coaxial water-cooling is determined to be the most appropriate method when selectively removing calculus with a frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser. Fluences over 2 J/cm^2 are required to remove calculus efficiently since photo-bleaching stalls calculus removal below that value.« less

  7. Chemical ablation of the Purkinje system causes early termination and activation rate slowing of long-duration ventricular fibrillation in dogs.

    PubMed

    Dosdall, Derek J; Tabereaux, Paul B; Kim, Jong J; Walcott, Gregory P; Rogers, Jack M; Killingsworth, Cheryl R; Huang, Jian; Robertson, Peter G; Smith, William M; Ideker, Raymond E

    2008-08-01

    Endocardial mapping has suggested that Purkinje fibers may play a role in the maintenance of long-duration ventricular fibrillation (LDVF). To determine the influence of Purkinje fibers on LDVF, we chemically ablated the Purkinje system with Lugol solution and recorded endocardial and transmural activation during LDVF. Dog hearts were isolated and perfused, and the ventricular endocardium was exposed and treated with Lugol solution (n = 6) or normal Tyrode solution as a control (n = 6). The left anterior papillary muscle endocardium was mapped with a 504-electrode (21 x 24) plaque with electrodes spaced 1 mm apart. Transmural activation was recorded with a six-electrode plunge needle on each side of the plaque. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced, and perfusion was halted. LDVF spontaneously terminated sooner in Lugol-ablated hearts than in control hearts (4.9 +/- 1.5 vs. 9.2 +/- 3.2 min, P = 0.01). After termination of VF, both the control and Lugol hearts were typically excitable, but only short episodes of VF could be reinduced. Endocardial activation rates were similar during the first 2 min of LDVF for Lugol-ablated and control hearts but were significantly slower in Lugol hearts by 3 min. In control hearts, the endocardium activated more rapidly than the epicardium after 4 min of LDVF with wave fronts propagating most often from the endocardium to epicardium. No difference in transmural activation rate or wave front direction was observed in Lugol hearts. Ablation of the subendocardium hastens VF spontaneous termination and alters VF activation sequences, suggesting that Purkinje fibers are important in the maintenance of LDVF.

  8. A Similarity Theory for Unsaturated Downdrafts within Clouds.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Emanuel, Kerry A.

    1981-08-01

    Recent observations of cumulus clouds strongly support the hypothesis of Squires (1958) that much of the mixing within such clouds is associated with downward propagating currents initiated near their tops. A similarity theory is here proposed to describe the properties of such currents; the use of similarity is defended on the basis of the observed and predicted scale of the downdrafts. The theory suggests that downward-propagating unsaturated thermals are pervasive throughout all but the largest convective clouds and that quasi-steady unsaturated downdraft plumes may exist in the lower portions of cumulonimbi. In addition to providing a reasonable explanation for the microstructure of and liquid water distribution within cumulus clouds, the theory appears to account for certain severe convective phenomena, including down-bursts. A new but related cloud instability is proposed to account for the occurrence of mamma.

  9. A comparison of non-local electron transport models for laser-plasmas relevant to inertial confinement fusion

    DOE PAGES

    Sherlock, M.; Brodrick, J. P.; Ridgers, C. P.

    2017-08-08

    Here, we compare the reduced non-local electron transport model developed to Vlasov-Fokker-Planck simulations. Two new test cases are considered: the propagation of a heat wave through a high density region into a lower density gas, and a one-dimensional hohlraum ablation problem. We find that the reduced model reproduces the peak heat flux well in the ablation region but significantly over-predicts the coronal preheat. The suitability of the reduced model for computing non-local transport effects other than thermal conductivity is considered by comparing the computed distribution function to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck distribution function. It is shown that even when the reduced modelmore » reproduces the correct heat flux, the distribution function is significantly different to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck prediction. Two simple modifications are considered which improve agreement between models in the coronal region.« less

  10. Demonstration of cardiac rotor and source mapping techniques in embryonic chick monolayers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    You, Min Ju; Langfield, Peter; Campanari, Lucas; Dobbs, Matt; Shrier, Alvin; Glass, Leon

    2017-09-01

    Excitable media, such as the heart, display propagating waves with different geometries including target patterns and rotors (spiral waves). Collision of two waves leads to annihilation of both. We present algorithms for data processing and analysis to identify the core of rotors. In this work, we show that as the spatial sampling resolution decreases it becomes increasingly difficult to identify rotors—there are instances of false negatives and false positives. These observations are relevant to current controversies concerning the role of rotors in the initiation, maintenance, and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation. Currently some practitioners target the core of rotors for ablation, but the effectiveness of this procedure has been questioned. In view of the difficulties inherent in the identification of rotors, we conclude that methods to identify rotors need to first be validated prior to assessing the efficacy of ablation.

  11. The Foggy EUV Corona and Coronal Heating by MHD Waves from Explosive Reconnection Events

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, Ron L.; Cirtain, Jonathan W.; Falconer, David A.

    2008-01-01

    In 0.5 arcsec/pixel TRACE coronal EUV images, the corona rooted in active regions that are at the limb and are not flaring is seen to consist of (1) a complex array of discrete loops and plumes embedded in (2) a diffuse ambient component that shows no fine structure and gradually fades with height. For each of two not-flaring active regions, found that the diffuse component is (1) approximately isothermal and hydrostatic and (2) emits well over half of the total EUV luminosity of the active-region corona. Here, from a TRACE Fe XII coronal image of another not-flaring active region, the large sunspot active region AR 10652 when it was at the west limb on 30 July 2004, we separate the diffuse component from the discrete loop component by spatial filtering, and find that the diffuse component has about 60% of the total luminosity. If under much higher spatial resolution than that of TRACE (e. g., the 0.1 arcsec/pixel resolution of the Hi-C sounding-rocket experiment proposed by J. W. Cirtain et al), most of the diffuse component remains diffuse rather being resolved into very narrow loops and plumes, this will raise the possibility that the EUV corona in active regions consists of two basically different but comparably luminous components: one being the set of discrete bright loops and plumes and the other being a truly diffuse component filling the space between the discrete loops and plumes. This dichotomy would imply that there are two different but comparably powerful coronal heating mechanisms operating in active regions, one for the distinct loops and plumes and another for the diffuse component. We present a scenario in which (1) each discrete bright loop or plume is a flux tube that was recently reconnected in a burst of reconnection, and (2) the diffuse component is heated by MHD waves that are generated by these reconnection events and by other fine-scale explosive reconnection events, most of which occur in and below the base of the corona where they are seen as UV explosive events, EUV blinkers, and type II spicules. These MHD waves propagate across field lines and dissipate, heating the plasma in the field between the bright loops and plumes.

  12. Validation and Simulation of ARES I Scale Model Acoustic Test -1- Pathfinder Development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Putnam, G. C.

    2011-01-01

    The Ares I Scale Model Acoustics Test (ASMAT) is a series of live-fire tests of scaled rocket motors meant to simulate the conditions of the Ares I launch configuration. These tests have provided a well documented set of high fidelity measurements useful for validation including data taken over a range of test conditions and containing phenomena like Ignition Over-Pressure and water suppression of acoustics. To take advantage of this data, a digital representation of the ASMAT test setup has been constructed and test firings of the motor have been simulated using the Loci/CHEM computational fluid dynamics software. Within this first of a series of papers, results from ASMAT simulations with the rocket in a held down configuration and without water suppression have then been compared to acoustic data collected from similar live-fire tests to assess the accuracy of the simulations. Detailed evaluations of the mesh features, mesh length scales relative to acoustic signals, Courant-Friedrichs-Lewy numbers, and spatial residual sources have been performed to support this assessment. Results of acoustic comparisons have shown good correlation with the amplitude and temporal shape of pressure features and reasonable spectral accuracy up to approximately 1000 Hz. Major plume and acoustic features have been well captured including the plume shock structure, the igniter pulse transient, and the ignition overpressure. Finally, acoustic propagation patterns illustrated a previously unconsidered issue of tower placement inline with the high intensity overpressure propagation path.

  13. Using flowmeter pulse tests to define hydraulic connections in the subsurface: A fractured shale example

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Williams, J.H.; Paillet, Frederick L.

    2002-01-01

    Cross-borehole flowmeter pulse tests define subsurface connections between discrete fractures using short stress periods to monitor the propagation of the pulse through the flow system. This technique is an improvement over other cross-borehole techniques because measurements can be made in open boreholes without packers or previous identification of water-producing intervals. The method is based on the concept of monitoring the propagation of pulses rather than steady flow through the fracture network. In this method, a hydraulic stress is applied to a borehole connected to a single, permeable fracture, and the distribution of flow induced by that stress monitored in adjacent boreholes. The transient flow responses are compared to type curves computed for several different types of fracture connections. The shape of the transient flow response indicates the type of fracture connection, and the fit of the data to the type curve yields an estimate of its transmissivity and storage coefficient. The flowmeter pulse test technique was applied in fractured shale at a volatile-organic contaminant plume in Watervliet, New York. Flowmeter and other geophysical logs were used to identify permeable fractures in eight boreholes in and near the contaminant plume using single-borehole flow measurements. Flowmeter cross-hole pulse tests were used to identify connections between fractures detected in the boreholes. The results indicated a permeable fracture network connecting many of the individual boreholes, and demonstrated the presence of an ambient upward hydraulic-head gradient throughout the site.

  14. Comparison of characteristics and downstream uniformity of linear-field and cross-field atmospheric pressure plasma jet array in He

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Bo; Fang, Zhi; Liu, Feng; Zhou, Renwu; Zhou, Ruoyu

    2018-06-01

    Using an atmospheric pressure plasma jet array is an effective way for expanding the treatment area of a single jet, and generating arrays with well downstream uniformity is of great interest for its applications. In this paper, a plasma jet array in helium is generated in a linear-field jet array with a ring-ring electrode structure excited by alternating current. The characteristics and downstream uniformity of the array and their dependence on the applied voltage and gas flow rate are investigated through optical, electrical, and Schlieren diagnostics. The results are compared with those of our reported work of a cross-field jet array with a needle-ring electrode structure. The results show that the linear-field jet array can generate relatively large-scale plasma with better uniformity and longer plumes than the cross-field case. The divergences observed in gas channels and the plasma plume trajectories are much less than those of the cross-field one. The deflection angle of lateral plumes is less than 6°, which is independent of the gas flow rate and applied voltage. The maximum downstream plumes of 23 mm can be obtained at 7 kV peak applied voltage and 4 l/min gas flow rate. The better uniformity of linear-field jet arrays is due to the effective suppression of hydrodynamic and electrical interactions among the jets in the arrays with a more uniform electric field distribution. The hydrodynamic interaction induced by the gas heating in the linear-field jet array is less than that of the cross-field one. The more uniform electric field distribution in the linear-field jet arrays can reduce the divergence of the propagation trajectories of the plasma plumes. It will generate less residual charge between the adjacent discharges and thus can reduce the accumulation effect of Coulomb force between the plasma plumes. The reported results can help design controllable and scalable plasma jet arrays with well uniformity for material surface and biomedical treatments.

  15. The Time Variability of Individual Geysers in the Plume of Enceladus

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Trumbo, S. K.; Ewald, S. P.; Ingersoll, A. P.

    2016-12-01

    Porco et al. (2014) [1] published the locations of 100 jets along the so-called "tiger stripes" that feed the massive plume of Enceladus. Hedman et al. (2013) [2] observed fluctuations in integrated plume brightness in response to periodic tidal forcing on the orbital timescale of Enceladus, in which the plume is brightest near apocenter and dimmest near pericenter. The thin crack models of Hurford et al. (2007, 2012) [3, 4] suggest that individual jets should respond to the same forces on similar timescales. However, if the jets are produced via vapor and liquid propagation through thin subterranean cracks, then they may also be controlled thermodynamically and dependent on the timescale of ice buildup on the conduit walls. Ingersoll and Ewald (2016) [5] demonstrate that the plume also varies on decadal timescales, perhaps as a result of an eleven-year tide or long-term ice accumulation within source cracks. We examine Cassini ISS Narrow Angle Camera images spanning 2005 - 2012 in order to assess the temporal variability of individual geysers and regional emission in the plume. We observe both the appearance and disappearance of individual jets, as well as visible changes in regional emission. Our observations suggest localized variations on timescales of months to years that are not easily tied to mean anomaly, but that may be indicative of subsurface processes. Theoretical models of the geyser mechanisms and subsurface plumbing predict closure timescales of individual cracks that are dependent on model parameters, such as crack width, crack tortuosity, and water table depth [6, 7, 8]. Thus, we discuss possible implications of these observations for both the mechanism and anatomy of an Enceladus geyser. [1] Porco et al. (2014), AJ, 148, 3. [2] Hedman et al. (2013), Nature, 500, 182 - 184. [3] Hurford et al. (2007), Nature, 447, 292 - 294. [4] Hurford et al. (2012), Icarus, 220, 896 - 903. [5] Ingersoll and Ewald (2016), Icarus, in review. [6] Ingersoll and Pankine (2010), Icarus, 206, 594 - 607. [7] Nakajima and Ingersoll (2016), Icarus, 272, 309 - 318. [8] Ingersoll and Nakajima (2016), Icarus, 272, 319 - 326.

  16. Elastic flexure controls magma trajectories and explains the offset of primary volcanic activity upstream of mantle plume axis at la Réunion and Hawaii hotspot islands

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gerbault, Muriel; Fontaine, Fabrice J.; Rabinowicz, Michel; Bystricky, Misha

    2017-03-01

    Surface volcanism at la Réunion and Hawaii occurs with an offset of 150-180 km upstream to the plume axis with respect to the plate motion. This striking observation raises questions about the forcing of plume-lithosphere thermo-mechanical interactions on melt trajectories beneath these islands. Based on visco-elasto-plastic numerical models handled at kilometric resolution, we propose to explain this offset by the development of compressional stresses at the base of the lithosphere, that result from elastic plate bending above the upward load exerted by the plume head. This horizontal compression adopts a disc shape centered around the plume axis: (i) it is 20 km thick, (ii) it has a 150 km radius, (iii) it lays at the base of the elastic part of the lithosphere, i.e., around ∼50-70 km depth where the temperature varies from ∼600 °C to ∼750 °C, (iv) it lasts for 5 to 10 My in an oceanic plate of age greater than 70 My, and (vi) it is controlled by the visco-elastic relaxation time at ∼50-70 km depth. This period of time exceeds the time during which both the Somalian/East-African and Pacific plates drift over the Reunion and Hawaii plumes, respectively. This indicates that this basal compression is actually a persistent feature. It is inferred that the buoyant melts percolating in the plume head pond below this zone of compression and eventually spread laterally until the most compressive principal elastic stresses reverse to the vertical, i.e., ∼150 km away from the plume head. There, melts propagate through dikes upwards to ∼35 km depth, where the plate curvature reverses and ambient compression diminishes. This 30-35 km depth may thus host a magmatic reservoir where melts transported by dykes pond. Only after further magmatic differentiation can dykes resume their ascension up to the surface and begin forming a volcanic edifice. As the volcano grows because of melt accumulation at the top of the plate, the lithosphere is flexed downwards, inducing extra tensile stress at 30-35 km depth and compression at ∼15 km depth (induced by the edifice load). It implies that now the melts pond at ∼15 km and form another magmatic reservoir lying just underneath the crust. These processes explain the ponding of primary (shield) melts at ∼35 km and ∼15 km depths as recorded below La Reunion, Mauritius or Hawaii volcanoes, all shifted by ∼150 km with respect to the plume axis.

  17. An experimental model to investigate the targeting accuracy of MR-guided focused ultrasound ablation in liver.

    PubMed

    Petrusca, Lorena; Viallon, Magalie; Breguet, Romain; Terraz, Sylvain; Manasseh, Gibran; Auboiroux, Vincent; Goget, Thomas; Baboi, Loredana; Gross, Patrick; Sekins, K Michael; Becker, Christoph D; Salomir, Rares

    2014-01-16

    Magnetic Resonance-guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRgHIFU) is a hybrid technology that aims to offer non-invasive thermal ablation of targeted tumors or other pathological tissues. Acoustic aberrations and non-linear wave propagating effects may shift the focal point significantly away from the prescribed (or, theoretical) position. It is therefore mandatory to evaluate the spatial accuracy of ablation for a given HIFU protocol and/or device. We describe here a method for producing a user-defined ballistic target as an absolute reference marker for MRgHIFU ablations. The investigated method is based on trapping a mixture of MR contrast agent and histology stain using radiofrequency (RF) ablation causing cell death and coagulation. A dedicated RF-electrode was used for the marker fixation as follows: a RF coagulation (4 W, 15 seconds) and injection of the mixture followed by a second RF coagulation. As a result, the contrast agent/stain is encapsulated in the intercellular space. Ultrasonography imaging was performed during the procedure, while high resolution T1w 3D VIBE MR acquisition was used right after to identify the position of the ballistic marker and hence the target tissue. For some cases, after the marker fixation procedure, HIFU volumetric ablations were produced by a phased-array HIFU platform. First ex vivo experiments were followed by in vivo investigation on four rabbits in thigh muscle and six pigs in liver, with follow-up at Day 7. At the end of the procedure, no ultrasound indication of the marker's presence could be observed, while it was clearly visible under MR and could be conveniently used to prescribe the HIFU ablation, centered on the so-created target. The marker was identified at Day 7 after treatment, immediately after animal sacrifice, after 3 weeks of post-mortem formalin fixation and during histology analysis. Its size ranged between 2.5 and 4 mm. Experimental validation of this new ballistic marker method was performed for liver MRgHIFU ablation, free of any side effects (e.g. no edema around the marker, no infection, no bleeding). The study suggests that the absolute reference marker had ultrasound conspicuity below the detection threshold, was irreversible, MR-compatible and MR-detectable, while also being a well-established histology staining technique.

  18. An experimental model to investigate the targeting accuracy of MR-guided focused ultrasound ablation in liver

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Magnetic Resonance-guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRgHIFU) is a hybrid technology that aims to offer non-invasive thermal ablation of targeted tumors or other pathological tissues. Acoustic aberrations and non-linear wave propagating effects may shift the focal point significantly away from the prescribed (or, theoretical) position. It is therefore mandatory to evaluate the spatial accuracy of ablation for a given HIFU protocol and/or device. We describe here a method for producing a user-defined ballistic target as an absolute reference marker for MRgHIFU ablations. Methods The investigated method is based on trapping a mixture of MR contrast agent and histology stain using radiofrequency (RF) ablation causing cell death and coagulation. A dedicated RF-electrode was used for the marker fixation as follows: a RF coagulation (4 W, 15 seconds) and injection of the mixture followed by a second RF coagulation. As a result, the contrast agent/stain is encapsulated in the intercellular space. Ultrasonography imaging was performed during the procedure, while high resolution T1w 3D VIBE MR acquisition was used right after to identify the position of the ballistic marker and hence the target tissue. For some cases, after the marker fixation procedure, HIFU volumetric ablations were produced by a phased-array HIFU platform. First ex vivo experiments were followed by in vivo investigation on four rabbits in thigh muscle and six pigs in liver, with follow-up at Day 7. Results At the end of the procedure, no ultrasound indication of the marker’s presence could be observed, while it was clearly visible under MR and could be conveniently used to prescribe the HIFU ablation, centered on the so-created target. The marker was identified at Day 7 after treatment, immediately after animal sacrifice, after 3 weeks of post-mortem formalin fixation and during histology analysis. Its size ranged between 2.5 and 4 mm. Conclusions Experimental validation of this new ballistic marker method was performed for liver MRgHIFU ablation, free of any side effects (e.g. no edema around the marker, no infection, no bleeding). The study suggests that the absolute reference marker had ultrasound conspicuity below the detection threshold, was irreversible, MR-compatible and MR-detectable, while also being a well-established histology staining technique. PMID:24433332

  19. Morphology and segmentation of the western Galápagos Spreading Center, 90.5°-98°W: Plume-ridge interaction at an intermediate spreading ridge

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sinton, John; Detrick, Robert; Canales, J. Pablo; Ito, Garrett; Behn, Mark

    2003-12-01

    Complete multibeam bathymetric coverage of the western Galápagos Spreading Center (GSC) between 90.5°W and 98°W reveals the fine-scale morphology, segmentation and influence of the Galápagos hot spot on this intermediate spreading ridge. The western GSC comprises three morphologically defined provinces: A Western Province, located farthest from the Galápagos hot spot west of 95°30'W, is characterized by an axial deep, rift valley morphology with individual, overlapping, E-W striking segments separated by non-transform offsets; A Middle Province, between the propagating rift tips at 93°15'W and 95°30'W, with transitional axial morphology strikes ˜276°; An Eastern Province, closest to the Galápagos hot spot between the ˜90°50'W Galápagos Transform and 93°15'W, with an axial high morphology generally less than 1800 m deep, strikes ˜280°. At a finer scale, the axial region consists of 32 individual segments defined on the basis of smaller, mainly <2 km, offsets. These offsets mainly step left in the Western and Middle Provinces, and right in the Eastern Province. Glass compositions indicate that the GSC is segmented magmatically into 8 broad regions, with Mg # generally decreasing to the west within each region. Striking differences in bathymetric and lava fractionation patterns between the propagating rifts with tips at 93°15'W and 95°30'W reflect lower overall magma supply and larger offset distance at the latter. The structure of the Eastern Province is complicated by the intersection of a series of volcanic lineaments that appear to radiate away from a point located on the northern edge of the Galápagos platform, close to the southern limit of the Galápagos Fracture Zone. Where these lineaments intersect the GSC, the ridge axis is displaced to the south through a series of overlapping spreading centers (OSCs); abandoned OSC limbs lie even farther south. We propose that southward displacement of the axis is promoted during intermittent times of increased plume activity, when lithospheric zones of weakness become volcanically active. Following cessation of the increased plume activity, the axis straightens by decapitating southernmost OSC limbs during short-lived propagation events. This process contributes to the number of right stepping offsets in the Eastern Province.

  20. STOCHASTIC TRANSIENTS AS A SOURCE OF QUASI-PERIODIC PROCESSES IN THE SOLAR ATMOSPHERE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yuan, Ding; Walsh, Robert W.; Su, Jiangtao

    2016-06-01

    Solar dynamics and turbulence occur at all heights of the solar atmosphere and could be described as stochastic processes. We propose that finite-lifetime transients recurring at a certain place could trigger quasi-periodic processes in the associated structures. In this study, we developed a mathematical model for finite-lifetime and randomly occurring transients, and found that quasi-periodic processes with periods longer than the timescale of the transients, are detectable intrinsically in the form of trains. We simulate their propagation in an empirical solar atmospheric model with chromosphere, transition region, and corona. We found that, due to the filtering effect of the chromosphericmore » cavity, only the resonance period of the acoustic resonator is able to propagate to the upper atmosphere; such a scenario is applicable to slow magnetoacoustic waves in sunspots and active regions. If the thermal structure of the atmosphere is less wild and acoustic resonance does not take place, the long-period oscillations could propagate to the upper atmosphere. Such a case would be more likely to occur in polar plumes.« less

  1. Characterization of optical turbulence in a jet engine exhaust with Shack-Hartmenn wavefront sensor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deron, R.; Mendez, F.

    2008-10-01

    Airborne laser countermeasure applications (DIRCM) are hampered by the turbulence of jet engine exhaust. The effects of this source of perturbation on optical propagation have still to be documented and analyzed in order to get a better insight into the different mechanisms of the plume perturbations and also to validate CFD/LES codes. For that purpose, wave front sensing has been used as a non-intrusive optical technique to provide unsteady and turbulent optical measurements through a plume of a jet engine installed at a fixed point on the ground. The experiment has been implemented in October 2007 along with other optical measuring techniques at Volvo Aero Corporation (Trollhättan, Sweden). This study is part of a European research programme dealing with DIRCM issues. The Shack- Hartmann (SH) wave front sensing technique was employed. It consisted of 64 x 64 lenslets coupled to a 1024x1024 pixel Dalsa CCD sensor working at a sampling rate of 40 Hz. A 15 ns pulsed laser synchronized with the SH sensor enabled "freezing" turbulence in each SH image. The ability of the technique to substract a reference permitted a simple calibration procedure to ensure accurate and reliable measurements despite vibration environment. Instantaneous phases are reconstructed using Fourier techniques so as to obtain a better spatial resolution against turbulent effects. Under any given plume condition, overall tilt aberration prevails. Phase power spectra derived from phase statistics are drawn according to the plume main axis and to normal axis. They compare favorably well to the decaying Kolmogorov power law on a useful high spatial frequency range. Averaged phases are also decomposed into Zernike polynomials to analyze optical mode behavior according to engine status and to plume abscissa. With overall tilt removed, turbulent DSP's amplitude drops by a factor of 30 to 40 and mean aberrations by a factor of 10 from an abscissa 1 meter to another 3.5 meters away from the engine nozzle, due to quite different turbulent conditions.

  2. A study of simultaneous scintillation observations by Chinese FY-2 geostationary meteorological satellite and VHF coherent radar measurements over South China

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zuo, X.; Yu, T.; Xia, C.

    2016-12-01

    It's a good place for South China to monitor ionospheric scintillation, which are situated near the northern crest of the equatorial ionosphere anomaly. The temporal variation characteristics of Amplitude scintillations of Chinese FY-2 geostationary meteorological satellite (86.5°E) observed at Guangzhou (23.2°N, 113.3°E, dip 18°N) during the period from July 2011 to June 2013 are present. The scintillation occurrence and intensity increase dramatically at September and October in FY-2 satellite link. The scintillation observations of FY-2 geostationary satellite observed at Guangzhou and simultaneous VHF (47.5MHz) coherent radar measurements from Sanya (18.3°N, 109.6°E, dip 13°N) during equinoctial months of 2011 and 2012 are used for a coordinated study for the relationship between the L-band scintillation patches on the propagation path of FY-2 satellite and the extended 3-m irregularity structures known as plumes over South China. The results showed good coincidence of the plumes with scintillation patches in most events. In case study, the zonal drift velocity of the irregularities was estimated by comparison of the onset times of the scintillation and plume and the irregularities were found to drift eastwards at a speed ranging about tens of meters to one hundred meters per second. From the derived value of drift speed and duration of scintillation events, the irregularity patches were found to have east-west extent about a few hundred kilometers. On the other hand, if the plumes on the radar maps occurred at lower altitudes, the associated irregularities would not be able to reach the IPP of the satellite and generate L-band scintillations there. Weak scintillations were observed on FY-2 link without any plume structure on radar backscatter maps occasionally.

  3. Modelling the fate of the Tijuana River discharge plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    van Ormondt, M.; Terrill, E.; Hibler, L. F.; van Dongeren, A. R.

    2010-12-01

    After rainfall events, the Tijuana River discharges excess runoff into the ocean in a highly turbid plume. The runoff waters contain large suspended solids concentrations, as well as high levels of toxic contaminants, bacteria, and hepatitis and enteroviruses. Public health hazards posed by the effluent often result in beach closures for several kilometers northward along the U.S. shoreline. A Delft3D model has been set up to predict the fate of the Tijuana River plume. The model takes into account the effects of tides, wind, waves, salinity, and temperature stratification. Heat exchange with the atmosphere is also included. The model consists of a relatively coarse outer domain and a high-resolution surf zone domain that are coupled with Domain Decomposition. The offshore boundary conditions are obtained from the larger NCOM SoCal model (operated by the US Navy) that spans the entire Southern California Bight. A number of discharge events are investigated, in which model results are validated against a wide range of field measurements in the San Diego Bight. These include HF Radar surface currents, REMUS tracks, drifter deployments, satellite imagery, as well as current and temperature profile measurements at a number of locations. The model is able to reproduce the observed current and temperature patterns reasonably well. Under calm conditions, the model results suggest that the hydrodynamics in the San Diego Bight are largely governed by internal waves. During rainfall events, which are typically accompanied by strong winds and high waves, wind and wave driven currents become dominant. An analysis will be made of what conditions determine the trapping and mixing of the plume inside the surfzone and/or the propagation of the plume through the breakers and onto the coastal shelf. The model is now also running in operational mode. Three day forecasts are made every 24 hours. This study was funded by the Office of Naval Research.

  4. Arctic ocean-shelf exchange: Measurements in Barrow Canyon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aagaard, K.; Roach, A. T.

    1990-10-01

    Two closely instrumented arrays were deployed within Barrow Canyon during 1986-1987 in an attempt to measure the outflow of dense, hypersaline plumes created during sea ice formation along the Alaskan coast. However, no hypersaline plumes were observed. Rather, we found cold, relatively fresh waters advected downcanyon by the mean flow alternating with upcanyon flow of warm and saline water upwelled onto the shelf. Upwelling was most frequent in the fall, and upcanyon speeds reached 60 cm s-1. At times the resulting onshore heat and salt fluxes were large enough to be of possible local significance, for example, to the surface heat budget. Contrary to earlier findings, the flow was only weakly correlated with the wind and the atmospheric pressure gradient. Instead, we found both upwelling and flow reversals to be coherent along the coast at sites 400 km apart, with phase differences corresponding to a typical speed of 2.3 m s-1. We suggest that the majority of these events are manifestations of shelf waves propagating eastward along the Arctic Ocean margin.

  5. Simplified Physics Based Models Research Topical Report on Task #2

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mishra, Srikanta; Ganesh, Priya

    We present a simplified-physics based approach, where only the most important physical processes are modeled, to develop and validate simplified predictive models of CO2 sequestration in deep saline formation. The system of interest is a single vertical well injecting supercritical CO2 into a 2-D layered reservoir-caprock system with variable layer permeabilities. We use a set of well-designed full-physics compositional simulations to understand key processes and parameters affecting pressure propagation and buoyant plume migration. Based on these simulations, we have developed correlations for dimensionless injectivity as a function of the slope of fractional-flow curve, variance of layer permeability values, and themore » nature of vertical permeability arrangement. The same variables, along with a modified gravity number, can be used to develop a correlation for the total storage efficiency within the CO2 plume footprint. Similar correlations are also developed to predict the average pressure within the injection reservoir, and the pressure buildup within the caprock.« less

  6. Generation of Subsurface Voids, Incubation Effect, and Formation of Nanoparticles in Short Pulse Laser Interactions with Bulk Metal Targets in Liquid: Molecular Dynamics Study

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    The ability of short pulse laser ablation in liquids to produce clean colloidal nanoparticles and unusual surface morphology has been employed in a broad range of practical applications. In this paper, we report the results of large-scale molecular dynamics simulations aimed at revealing the key processes that control the surface morphology and nanoparticle size distributions by pulsed laser ablation in liquids. The simulations of bulk Ag targets irradiated in water are performed with an advanced computational model combining a coarse-grained representation of liquid environment and an atomistic description of laser interaction with metal targets. For the irradiation conditions that correspond to the spallation regime in vacuum, the simulations predict that the water environment can prevent the complete separation of the spalled layer from the target, leading to the formation of large subsurface voids stabilized by rapid cooling and solidification. The subsequent irradiation of the laser-modified surface is found to result in a more efficient ablation and nanoparticle generation, thus suggesting the possibility of the incubation effect in multipulse laser ablation in liquids. The simulations performed at higher laser fluences that correspond to the phase explosion regime in vacuum reveal the accumulation of the ablation plume at the interface with the water environment and the formation of a hot metal layer. The water in contact with the metal layer is brought to the supercritical state and provides an environment suitable for nucleation and growth of small metal nanoparticles from metal atoms emitted from the hot metal layer. The metal layer itself has limited stability and can readily disintegrate into large (tens of nanometers) nanoparticles. The layer disintegration is facilitated by the Rayleigh–Taylor instability of the interface between the higher density metal layer decelerated by the pressure from the lighter supercritical water. The nanoparticles emerging from the layer disintegration are rapidly cooled and solidified due to the interaction with water environment, with a cooling rate of ∼2 × 1012 K/s observed in the simulations. The computational prediction of two distinct mechanisms of nanoparticle formation yielding nanoparticles with different characteristic sizes provides a plausible explanation for the experimental observations of bimodal nanoparticle size distributions in laser ablation in liquids. The ultrahigh cooling and solidification rates suggest the possibility for generation of nanoparticles featuring metastable phases and highly nonequilibrium structures. PMID:28798858

  7. Along-strike supply of volcanic rifted margins: Implications for plume-influenced rifting and sudden along-strike transitions between volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ranero, C. R.; Phipps Morgan, J.

    2006-12-01

    The existence of sudden along-strike transitions between volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margins is an important constraint for conceptual models of rifting and continental breakup. We think there is a promising indirect approach to infer the maximum width of the region of upwelling that exists beneath a rifted margin during the transition from rifting to seafloor-spreading. We infer this width of ~30km from the minimum length of the ridge-offsets that mark the limits of the `region of influence' of on-ridge plumes on the axial relief, axial morphology, and crustal thickness along the ridge and at the terminations of fossil volcanic rifted margins. We adopt Vogt's [1972] hypothesis for along-ridge asthenospheric flow in a narrow vertical slot beneath the axis of plume-influenced `macro-segments' and volcanic rifted margins. We find that: (1) There is a threshold distance to the lateral offsets that bound plume-influenced macrosegments; all such `barrier offsets' are greater than ~30km, while smaller offsets do not appear to be a barrier to along-axis flow. This pattern is seen in the often abrupt transitions between volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margins; these transitions coincide with >30km ridge offsets that mark the boundary between the smooth seafloor morphology and thick crust of a plume- influenced volcanic margin and a neighboring non-volcanic margin, as recorded in 180Ma rifting of the early N. Atlantic, the 42Ma rifting of the Kerguelen-Broken Ridge, and the 66Ma Seychelles-Indian rifting in the Indian Ocean. (2) A similar pattern is seen in the often abrupt transitions between `normal' and plume-influenced mid- ocean ridge segments, which is discussed in a companion presentation by Phipps Morgan and Ranero (this meeting). (3) The coexistance of adjacent volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margin segments is readily explained in this conceptual framework. If the volcanic margin macrosegment is plume-fed by hot asthenosphere along an axial ridge slot, while adjacent non-volcanic margin segments stretch and upwell ambient cooler subcontinental mantle, then there will be a sudden transition from volcanic to non-volcanic margins across a transform offset. (4) A 30km width for the region of ridge upwelling and melting offers a simple conceptual explanation for the apparent 30km threshold length for the existence of strike-slip transform faults and the occurrence of non-transform offsets at smaller ridge offset-distances. (5) The conceptual model leads to the interpretation of the observed characteristic ~1000km-2000km-width of plume-influenced macro- segments as a measure of the maximum potential plume supply into a subaxial slot of 5-10 cubic km per yr. (6) If asthenosphere consumption by plate-spreading is less than plume-supply into a macro-segment, then the shallow seafloor and excess gravitational spreading stresses associated with a plume-influenced ridge can lead to growth of the axial slot by ridge propagation. We think this is a promising conceptual framework with which to understand the differences between volcanic and non-volcanic rifted margins.

  8. An ablative pulsed plasma thruster with a segmented anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Zhe; Ren, Junxue; Tang, Haibin; Ling, William Yeong Liang; York, Thomas M.

    2018-01-01

    An ablative pulsed plasma thruster (APPT) design with a ‘segmented anode’ is proposed in this paper. We aim to examine the effect that this asymmetric electrode configuration (a normal cathode and a segmented anode) has on the performance of an APPT. The magnetic field of the discharge arc, plasma density in the exit plume, impulse bit, and thrust efficiency were studied using a magnetic probe, Langmuir probe, thrust stand, and mass bit measurements, respectively. When compared with conventional symmetric parallel electrodes, the segmented anode APPT shows an improvement in the impulse bit of up to 28%. The thrust efficiency is also improved by 49% (from 5.3% to 7.9% for conventional and segmented designs, respectively). Long-exposure broadband emission images of the discharge morphology show that compared with a normal anode, a segmented anode results in clear differences in the luminous discharge morphology and better collimation of the plasma. The magnetic probe data indicate that the segmented anode APPT exhibits a higher current density in the discharge arc. Furthermore, Langmuir probe data collected from the central exit plane show that the peak electron density is 75% higher than with conventional parallel electrodes. These results are believed to be fundamental to the physical mechanisms behind the increased impulse bit of an APPT with a segmented electrode.

  9. Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Wavefields in a Realistic Dipole Field

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Denton, R. E.

    2018-02-01

    The latitudinal distribution and properties of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves determine the total effect of those waves on relativistic electrons. Here we describe the latitudinal variation of EMIC waves simulated self-consistently in a dipole magnetic field for a plasmasphere or plume-like plasma at geostationary orbit with cold H+, He+, and O+ and hot protons with temperature anisotropy. The waves grow as they propagate away from the magnetic equator to higher latitude, while the wave vector turns outward radially and the polarization becomes linear. We calculate the detailed wave spectrum in four latitudinal ranges varying from magnetic latitude (MLAT) close to 0° (magnetic equator) up to 21°. The strongest waves are propagating away from the magnetic equator, but some wave power propagating toward the magnetic equator is observed due to local generation (especially close to the magnetic equator) or reflection. The He band waves, which are generated relatively high up on their dispersion surface, are able to propagate all the way to MLAT = 21°, but the H band waves experience frequency filtering, with no equatorial waves propagating to MLAT = 21° and only the higher-frequency waves propagating to MLAT = 14°. The result is that the wave power averaged k∥, which determines the relativistic electron minimum resonance energy, scales like the inverse of the local magnetic field for the He mode, whereas it is almost constant for the H mode. While the perpendicular wave vector turns outward, it broadens. These wavefields should be useful for simulations of radiation belt particle dynamics.

  10. Yellowstone plume trigger for Basin and Range extension and emplacement of the Nevada-Columbia Basin magmatic belt

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Camp, Victor E; Pierce, Kenneth L.; Morgan Morzel, Lisa Ann

    2015-01-01

    Widespread extension began across the northern and central Basin and Range Province at 17–16 Ma, contemporaneous with magmatism along the Nevada–Columbia Basin magmatic belt, a linear zone of dikes and volcanic centers that extends for >1000 km, from southern Nevada to the Columbia Basin of eastern Washington. This belt was generated above an elongated sublithospheric melt zone associated with arrival of the Yellowstone mantle plume, with a north-south tabular shape attributed to plume ascent through a propagating fracture in the Juan de Fuca slab. Dike orientation along the magmatic belt suggests an extension direction of 245°–250°, but this trend lies oblique to the regional extension direction of 280°–300° during coeval and younger Basin and Range faulting, an ∼45° difference. Field relationships suggest that this magmatic trend was not controlled by regional stress in the upper crust, but rather by magma overpressure from below and forceful dike injection with an orientation inherited from a deeper process in the sublithospheric mantle. The southern half of the elongated zone of mantle upwelling was emplaced beneath a cratonic lithosphere with an elevated surface derived from Late Cretaceous to mid-Tertiary crustal thickening. This high Nevadaplano was primed for collapse with high gravitational potential energy under the influence of regional stress, partly derived from boundary forces due to Pacific–North American plate interaction. Plume arrival at 17–16 Ma resulted in advective thermal weakening of the lithosphere, mantle traction, delamination, and added buoyancy to the northern and central Basin and Range. It was not the sole cause of Basin and Range extension, but rather the catalyst for extension of the Nevadaplano, which was already on the verge of regional collapse.

  11. Upside-Down Subduction of the Farallon Slab and the Origin of Yellowstone Volcanism from Finite-Frequency Tomography of USArray Receiver Functions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Y.

    2017-12-01

    The origin of the Yellowstone and Snake River Plain volcanic track stretching over 600 km from Northwest Wyoming to the Idaho-Oregon border has been strongly debated. The most widely accepted interpretation involves the North America plate moving over a stationary narrow plume of hot materials rising up from the lowermost mantle. The plume model successfully explains the age-progressive volcanic track and high ratios of Helium-3/Helium-4 isotope observed in the basaltic volcanism but such a deep mantle plume has been long missing in seismic imaging. In this study, we apply a newly developed finite-frequency imaging method to receiver functions recorded at USArray stations to map the topography of two seismic discontinuities in the mantle, the 410-km and the 660-km discontinuity. The new images reveal a trail of anomalies within a previously imaged wavespeed slab gap and closely follow the surface volcanic track. This observation contradicts the plume model which requires anomalies at those depths to be confined in a narrow region directly beneath the present-day Yellowstone caldera. We propose an alternative interpretation of the Yellowstone volcanism as a result of an upside-down subduction of the stagnant oceanic Farallon plate in the Western US. This upside-down episode of subduction started about 16 million years ago in the mantle transition zone, where the younger slab beneath Oregon and Idaho penetrated the 660-km discontinuity, pulling down older stagnant slab. The upside-down subduction propagated north-westward and generated passive upwellings from the lower mantle, ascending through a water-rich mantle transition zone, producing melting and age-progressive volcanism.

  12. Predictive uncertainty analysis of plume distribution for geological carbon sequestration using sparse-grid Bayesian method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shi, X.; Zhang, G.

    2013-12-01

    Because of the extensive computational burden, parametric uncertainty analyses are rarely conducted for geological carbon sequestration (GCS) process based multi-phase models. The difficulty of predictive uncertainty analysis for the CO2 plume migration in realistic GCS models is not only due to the spatial distribution of the caprock and reservoir (i.e. heterogeneous model parameters), but also because the GCS optimization estimation problem has multiple local minima due to the complex nonlinear multi-phase (gas and aqueous), and multi-component (water, CO2, salt) transport equations. The geological model built by Doughty and Pruess (2004) for the Frio pilot site (Texas) was selected and assumed to represent the 'true' system, which was composed of seven different facies (geological units) distributed among 10 layers. We chose to calibrate the permeabilities of these facies. Pressure and gas saturation values from this true model were then extracted and used as observations for subsequent model calibration. Random noise was added to the observations to approximate realistic field conditions. Each simulation of the model lasts about 2 hours. In this study, we develop a new approach that improves computational efficiency of Bayesian inference by constructing a surrogate system based on an adaptive sparse-grid stochastic collocation method. This surrogate response surface global optimization algorithm is firstly used to calibrate the model parameters, then prediction uncertainty of the CO2 plume position is quantified due to the propagation from parametric uncertainty in the numerical experiments, which is also compared to the actual plume from the 'true' model. Results prove that the approach is computationally efficient for multi-modal optimization and prediction uncertainty quantification for computationally expensive simulation models. Both our inverse methodology and findings can be broadly applicable to GCS in heterogeneous storage formations.

  13. Numerical Simulations Of The Impact Of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9: Plume Development

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Palotai, Csaba J.; Korycansky, D.; Deming, D.; Harrington, J.; Reese, C.

    2007-10-01

    We present results of our three-dimensional, hydrodynamic simulations of the impact of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 (SL9) into the atmosphere of Jupiter. In the current phase of the research we focus on the plume blowout and splashback phases of the SL9 event. We have modified the Zeus-MP/2 model (Hayes et al. 2006) to be suitable for our investigation, adding a Jovian atmospheric profile, Tillotson equation of state for the impactor, and the Coriolis terms. As an initial condition of our high-resolution simulations we use the energy deposition profile taken from the SL9 impact modeling of Korycansky et al. (2006). The effects of the Coriolis force during the shockwave propagation are tested through sensitivity tests. The viscosity in the splash model is adjusted until the outer part of the plume re-entry shock matches the expanding infrared rings (McGregor et al. 1996). The molecular viscosity being well-known, this will place a strong constraint on the Jovian eddy viscosity. We add radiative terms from previous 2D splash calculation of Deming and Harrington (2001) to allow us to calculate realistic wavelength-dependent lightcurves and low-resolution spectra for direct comparison to data. This work is supported by National Science Foundation Grant No. 0307638 and National Aeronautics and Space Administration Grant No. NNG 04GQ35G.

  14. Seismicity in the Vicinity of the Tristan Da Cunha Hot Spot: Particular Plate Tectonics and Mantle Plume Presence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schlömer, Antje; Geissler, Wolfram H.; Jokat, Wilfried; Jegen, Marion

    2017-12-01

    Earthquake locations along the southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge have large uncertainties due to the sparse distribution of permanent seismological stations in and around the South Atlantic Ocean. Most of the earthquakes are associated with plate tectonic processes related to the formation of new oceanic lithosphere, as they are located close to the ridge axis or in the immediate vicinity of transform faults. A local seismological network of ocean-bottom seismometers and land stations on and around the archipelago of Tristan da Cunha allowed for the first time a local earthquake survey for 1 year. We relate intraplate seismicity within the African oceanic plate segment north of the island partly to extensional stresses induced by a bordering large transform fault and to the existence of the Tristan mantle plume. The temporal propagation of earthquakes within the segment reflects the prevailing stress field. The strong extensional stresses in addition with the plume weaken the lithosphere and might hint at an incipient ridge jump. An apparently aseismic zone coincides with the proposed location of the Tristan conduit in the upper mantle southwest of the islands. The margins of this zone describe the transition between the ductile and the surrounding brittle regime. Moreover, we observe seismicity close to the islands of Tristan da Cunha and nearby seamounts, which we relate to ongoing tectono-magmatic activity.

  15. Control of ULF Wave Accessibility to the Inner Magnetosphere by the Convection of Plasma Density

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Degeling, A. W.; Rae, I. J.; Watt, C. E. J.; Shi, Q. Q.; Rankin, R.; Zong, Q.-G.

    2018-02-01

    During periods of storm activity and enhanced convection, the plasma density in the afternoon sector of the magnetosphere is highly dynamic due to the development of plasmaspheric drainage plume (PDP) structure. This significantly affects the local Alfvén speed and alters the propagation of ULF waves launched from the magnetopause. Therefore, it can be expected that the accessibility of ULF wave power for radiation belt energization is sensitively dependent on the recent history of magnetospheric convection and the stage of development of the PDP. This is investigated using a 3-D model for ULF waves within the magnetosphere in which the plasma density distribution is evolved using an advection model for cold plasma, driven by a (VollandStern) convection electrostatic field (resulting in PDP structure). The wave model includes magnetic field day/night asymmetry and extends to a paraboloid dayside magnetopause, from which ULF waves are launched at various stages during the PDP development. We find that the plume structure significantly alters the field line resonance location, and the turning point for MHD fast waves, introducing strong asymmetry in the ULF wave distribution across the noon meridian. Moreover, the density enhancement within the PDP creates a waveguide or local cavity for MHD fast waves, such that eigenmodes formed allow the penetration of ULF wave power to much lower L within the plume than outside, providing an avenue for electron energization.

  16. Red Sea Outflow Experiment (REDSOX): Descent and initial spreading of Red Sea Water in the northwestern Indian Ocean

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bower, A.; Johns, W.; Peters, H.; Fratantoni, D.

    2003-04-01

    Two comprehensive surveys were carried out during 2001 to investigate the dense overflow and initial spreading of Red Sea Water (RSW) in the Gulf of Aden. The cruises were timed to coincide with the climatological maximum (February) and minimum (August) periods of outflow transport. The surveys included high-resolution CTD/lowered ADCP/shipboard ADCP observations in the descending plume and in the western gulf, and trajectories from 50 acoustically-tracked RAFOS floats released at the center of the equilibrated RSW (650 m). The measurements reveal a complicated descending plume structure in the western gulf with three main pathways for the high salinity RSW. Different mixing intensities along these pathways lead to variable penetration depths of the Red Sea plume between 450-900 m in the Gulf of Aden. The observations also revealed the hydrographic and velocity structure of large, energetic, deep-reaching mesoscale eddies in the gulf that fundamentally impact the spreading rates and pathways of RSW. Both cyclones and anticyclones were observed, with horizontal scales up to 250 km and azimuthal speeds as high as 0.5 m/s. The eddies appear to reach nearly to the sea floor and entrain RSW from the western gulf at mid-depth. Post-cruise analysis of SeaWiffs imagery suggests that some of these eddies form in the Indian Ocean and propagate into the gulf.

  17. Impact of High-Z Coatings on the Ablation Pressure of Laser Driven Targets.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mostovych, Andrew; Oh, Jaechul; Schmitt, Andrew; Weaver, James

    2007-11-01

    Recent hydrodynamic experiments [1] with planar high-Z coated targets at the Naval Research Laboratory and spherical implosion experiments with high-Z coated shell targets [2] at the Omega facility all show significant improvement in target stability as a result of the high-Z coatings. For better understanding of the hydrodynamic processes it is important to know the changes in ablation pressure as a result of the high-Z layers. Using the Nike Laser, we have conducted new experiments to measure the change in shock speed of planar CH targets that are irradiated with and without the presence of a 200 Ang. gold high-Z coating. The evolution of shock propagation inside the targets is diagnosed with VISAR probing while average shock velocities are also measured by shock breakout detection from the stepped rear surface of the targets. We find that the high-Z layers produce a time dependent ablation pressure which is detected via the observation of non-steady shocks in the targets. Experimental results and comparisons to hydrodynamic simulations will be presented. Work supported by U. S. Department of Energy. [1] S.P. Obenschain et al., Phys. Plasmas 9, 2234 (2002). [2] A.N. Mostovych et al., APS Abstracts DPPFO3002M, (2005).

  18. Formation and Elimination of Transform Faults on the Reykjanes Ridge

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martinez, Fernando; Hey, Richard

    2017-04-01

    The Reykjanes Ridge is a type-setting for examining processes that form and eliminate transform faults because it has undergone these events systematically within the Iceland gradient in hot-spot influence. A Paleogene change in plate motion led to the abrupt segmentation of the originally linear axis into a stair-step ridge-transform configuration. Its subsequent evolution diachronously and systematically eliminated the just-formed offsets re-establishing the original linear geometry of the ridge over the mantle, although now spreading obliquely. During segmented stages accreted crust was thinner and during unsegmented stages southward pointing V-shaped crustal ridges formed. Although mantle plume effects have been invoked to explain the changes in segmentation and crustal features, we propose that plate boundary processes can account for these changes [Martinez & Hey, EPSL, 2017]. Fragmentation of the axis was a mechanical effect of an abrupt change in plate opening direction, as observed in other areas, and did not require mantle plume temperature changes. Reassembly of the fragmented axis to its original linear configuration was controlled by a deep damp melting regime that persisted in a linear configuration following the abrupt change in opening direction. Whereas the shallow and stronger mantle of the dry melting regime broke up into a segmented plate boundary, the persistent deep linear damp melting regime guided reassembly of the ridge axis back to its original configuration by inducing asymmetric spreading of individual ridge segments. Effects of segmentation on mantle upwelling explain crustal thickness changes between segmented and unsegmented phases of spreading without mantle temperature changes. Buoyant upwelling instabilities propagate along the long linear deep melting regime driven by regional gradients in mantle properties away from Iceland. Once segmentation is eliminated, these propagating upwelling instabilities lead to crustal thickness variations forming the V-shaped ridges on the Reykjanes Ridge flanks, without requiring actual rapid radial mantle plume flow or temperature variations. Our study indicates that the Reykjanes Ridge can be used to study how plate boundary processes within a regional gradient in mantle properties lead to a range of effects on lithospheric segmentation, melt production and crustal accretion.

  19. Optical emission spectroscopic study of plasma plumes generated by IR CO2 pulsed laser on carbon targets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Camacho, J. J.; Díaz, L.; Santos, M.; Reyman, D.; Poyato, J. M. L.

    2008-05-01

    Optical emission spectroscopy studies, in the spectral range ultraviolet-visible-near infrared (UV-Vis-NIR), were performed to investigate thermal and dynamical properties of a plume produced by laser ablation of a graphite target. Ablation is carried out using a high-power IR CO2 pulsed laser at λ = 9.621 µm, power density ranging from 0.22 to 5.36 GW cm-2 and air pressures around 4 Pa. The strong emission observed in the plasma region is mainly due to electronic relaxation of excited C, ionic fragments C+, C2+ and C3+ and molecular features of C2(d 3Πg-a 3Πu Swan band system). The medium-weak emission is mainly due to excited atomic N, H, O, ionic fragment C4+ and molecular features of C2( E\\,^1\\Sigma _g^+\\--A\\,^{1}\\Pi _u ; Freymark system), C2( D\\,^1\\Sigma _u^+\\--X\\,^1\\Sigma _g^+ ; Mulliken system), CN(D 2Π-A 2Π), C2(e 3Πg-a 3Πu Fox-Herzberg system), C2(C 1Πg-A 1Πu Deslandres-d'Azambuja system), OH(A 2Σ+-X 2Π), CH(C 2Σ+-X 2Π), NH(A 3Π-X 3Σ-), CN(B 2Σ+-X 2Σ+ violet system), CH(B 2Σ+-X 2Π), CH(A 2Δ-X 2Π), C2( A\\,^{1}\\Pi_u\\--X\\,^{1}\\Sigma ^{+}_g ; Phillips system) and CN(A 2Π-X 2Σ+ red system). An excitation temperature Texc = 23 000 ± 1900 K and electron densities in the range (0.6-5.6) × 1016 cm-3 were estimated by means of C+ ionic lines. The characteristics of the spectral emission intensities from different species have been investigated as functions of the ambient pressure and laser irradiance. Estimates of vibrational temperatures of C2 and CN electronically excited species under various laser irradiance conditions are made.

  20. Assessing the Atrial Electromechanical Coupling during Atrial Focal Tachycardia, Flutter, and Fibrillation using Electromechanical Wave Imaging in Humans

    PubMed Central

    Provost, Jean; Costet, Alexandre; Wan, Elaine; Gambhir, Alok; Whang, William; Garan, Hasan; Konofagou, Elisa E.

    2015-01-01

    Minimally-invasive treatments of cardiac arrhythmias such as radio-frequency ablation are gradually gaining in importance in clinical practice but still lack a noninvasive imaging modality which provides insight into the source or focus of an arrhythmia. Cardiac deformations imaged at high temporal and spatial resolution can be used to elucidate the electrical activation sequence in normal and paced human subjects non-invasively and could potentially aid to better plan and monitor ablation-based arrhythmia treatments. In this study, a novel ultrasound-based method is presented that can be used to quantitatively characterize focal and reentrant arrhythmias. Spatio-temporal maps of the full-view of the atrial and ventricular mechanics were obtained in a single heartbeat, revealing with otherwise unobtainable detail the electromechanical patterns of atrial flutter, fibrillation, and tachycardia in humans. During focal arrhythmias such as premature ventricular complex and focal atrial tachycardia, the previously developed electromechanical wave imaging methodology is hereby shown capable of identifying the location of the focal zone and the subsequent propagation of cardiac activation. During reentrant arrhythmias such as atrial flutter and fibrillation, Fourier analysis of the strains revealed highly correlated mechanical and electrical cycle lengths and propagation patterns. High frame rate ultrasound imaging of the heart can be used non-invasively and in real time, to characterize the lesser-known mechanical aspects of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, also potentially assisting treatment planning for intraoperative and longitudinal monitoring of arrhythmias. PMID:26361338

  1. Instability of Taylor-Sedov blast waves propagating through a uniform gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grun, J.; Stamper, J.; Manka, C.; Resnick, J.; Burris, R.; Crawford, J.; Ripin, B. H.

    1991-05-01

    An instability in Taylor-Sedov blast waves was measured as the waves propagated through a uniform gas with a low adiabatic index. The first measurements of the instability are given and compared to theoretical predictions. The classical Taylor-Sedov blast waves resulted from the expansion of ablation plasma into an ambient gas from laser-irradiated foils, and photographs were taken using the dark-field imaging method. Visible emission from the blasts were recorded with a four-frame microchannel-plate intensifier camera. Blast waves formed in nitrogen gas are shown to be stable and smooth, whereas the waves propagating through xenon gas are found to be unstable and wrinkled. A power law is fitted to the experimental data, and the adiabatic indices are theorized to cause the different responses in the two gases. The results generally agree with theoretical predictions in spite of some minor discrepancies, and an explanation of the instability mechanism is developed. When the adiabatic index is sufficiently low, the Taylor-Sedov blast waves in a uniform gas will be unstable, and the perturbed amplitudes will grow as a power of time.

  2. Reduction of time-averaged irradiation speckle nonuniformity in laser-driven plasmas due to target ablation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Epstein, R.

    1997-09-01

    In inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments, irradiation uniformity is improved by passing laser beams through distributed phase plates (DPPs), which produce focused intensity profiles with well-controlled, reproducible envelopes modulated by fine random speckle. [C. B. Burckhardt, Appl. Opt. {bold 9}, 695 (1970); Y. Kato and K. Mima, Appl. Phys. B {bold 29}, 186 (1982); Y. Kato {ital et al.}, Phys. Rev. Lett. {bold 53}, 1057 (1984); Laboratory for Laser Energetics LLE Review 33, NTIS Document No. DOE/DP/40200-65, 1987 (unpublished), p. 1; Laboratory for Laser Energetics LLE Review 63, NTIS Document No. DOE/SF/19460-91, 1995 (unpublished), p. 1.] A uniformly ablating plasmamore » atmosphere acts to reduce the contribution of the speckle to the time-averaged irradiation nonuniformity by causing the intensity distribution to move relative to the absorption layer of the plasma. This occurs most directly as the absorption layer in the plasma moves with the ablation-driven flow, but it is shown that the effect of the accumulating ablated plasma on the phase of the laser light also makes a quantitatively significant contribution. Analytical results are obtained using the paraxial approximation applied to the beam propagation, and a simple statistical model is assumed for the properties of DPPs. The reduction in the time-averaged spatial spectrum of the speckle due to these effects is shown to be quantitatively significant within time intervals characteristic of atmospheric hydrodynamics under typical ICF irradiation intensities. {copyright} {ital 1997 American Institute of Physics.}« less

  3. The identification of conduction gaps after pulmonary vein isolation using a new electroanatomic mapping system.

    PubMed

    Masuda, Masaharu; Fujita, Masashi; Iida, Osamu; Okamoto, Shin; Ishihara, Takayuki; Nanto, Kiyonori; Kanda, Takashi; Tsujimura, Takuya; Matsuda, Yasuhiro; Okuno, Shota; Ohashi, Takuya; Tsuji, Aki; Mano, Toshiaki

    2017-11-01

    The reconnection of left atrial-pulmonary vein (LA-PV) conduction after the initial procedure of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation is not rare, and is one of the main cause of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after PV isolation. We investigated feasibility of a new ultrahigh-resolution mapping system using a 64-pole small basket catheter for the identification of LA-PV conduction gaps. This prospective study included 31 consecutive patients (20 with persistent AF) undergoing a second ablation after a PV isolation procedure with LA-PV reconnected conduction at any of the 4 PVs. An LA-PV map was created using the mapping system, and ablation was performed at the estimated gap location. The propagation map identified 54 gaps from 39 ipsilateral PV pairs, requiring manual electrogram reannotation for 23 gaps (43%). Gaps at the anterior and carinal regions of left and right ipsilateral PVs required manual electrogram reannotation more frequently than the other regions. The voltage map could identify the gap only in 19 instances (35%). Electrophysiological properties of the gaps (multiple gaps in the same ipsilateral PVs, conduction time, velocity, width, and length) did not differ between those needing and not needing manual electrogram reannotation. During the gap ablation, either the activation sequence alteration or elimination of PV potentials was observed using a circular catheter placed in the PV, suggesting that all the identified gaps were correct. This new electroanatomic mapping system visualized all the LA-PV gaps in patients undergoing a second AF ablation. Copyright © 2017 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Validation of a novel mapping system and utility for mapping complex atrial tachycardias.

    PubMed

    Honarbakhsh, S; Hunter, R J; Dhillon, G; Ullah, W; Keating, E; Providencia, R; Chow, A; Earley, M J; Schilling, R J

    2018-03-01

    This study sought to validate a novel wavefront mapping system utilizing whole-chamber basket catheters (CARTOFINDER, Biosense Webster). The system was validated in terms of (1) mapping atrial-paced beats and (2) mapping complex wavefront patterns in atrial tachycardia (AT). Patients undergoing catheter ablation for AT and persistent AF were included. A 64-pole-basket catheter was used to acquire unipolar signals that were processed by CARTOFINDER mapping system to generate dynamic wavefront propagation maps. The left atrium was paced from four sites to demonstrate focal activation. ATs were mapped with the mechanism confirmed by conventional mapping, entrainment, and response to ablation. Twenty-two patients were included in the study (16 with AT and 6 with AF initially who terminated to AT during ablation). In total, 172 maps were created with the mapping system. It correctly identified atrial-pacing sites in all paced maps. It accurately mapped 9 focal/microreentrant and 18 macroreentrant ATs both in the left and right atrium. A third and fourth observer independently identified the sites of atrial pacing and the AT mechanism from the CARTOFINDER maps, while being blinded to the conventional activation maps. This novel mapping system was effectively validated by mapping focal activation patterns from atrial-paced beats. The system was also effective in mapping complex wavefront patterns in a range of ATs in patients with scarred atria. The system may therefore be of practical use in the mapping and ablation of AT and could have potential for mapping wavefront activations in AF. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  5. Nonlinear acoustics in biomedical ultrasound

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cleveland, Robin O.

    2015-10-01

    Ultrasound is widely used to image inside the body; it is also used therapeutically to treat certain medical conditions. In both imaging and therapy applications the amplitudes employed in biomedical ultrasound are often high enough that nonlinear acoustic effects are present in the propagation: the effects have the potential to be advantageous in some scenarios but a hindrance in others. In the case of ultrasound imaging the nonlinearity produces higher harmonics that result in images of greater quality. However, nonlinear effects interfere with the imaging of ultrasound contrast agents (typically micron sized bubbles with a strong nonlinear response of their own) and nonlinear effects also result in complications when derating of pressure measurements in water to in situ values in tissue. High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is emerging as a non-invasive therapeutic modality which can result in thermal ablation of tissue. For thermal ablation, the extra effective attenuation resulting from nonlinear effects can result in enhanced heating of tissue if shock formation occurs in the target region for ablation - a highly desirable effect. However, if nonlinearity is too strong it can also result in undesired near-field heating and reduced ablation in the target region. The disruption of tissue (histotripsy) and fragmentation of kidney stones (lithotripsy) exploits shock waves to produce mechanically based effects, with minimal heating present. In these scenarios it is necessary for the waves to be of sufficient amplitude that a shock exists when the waveform reaches the target region. This talk will discuss how underlying nonlinear phenomenon act in all the diagnostic and therapeutic applications described above.

  6. Infrasound Waveform Inversion and Mass Flux Validation from Sakurajima Volcano, Japan

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fee, D.; Kim, K.; Yokoo, A.; Izbekov, P. E.; Lopez, T. M.; Prata, F.; Ahonen, P.; Kazahaya, R.; Nakamichi, H.; Iguchi, M.

    2015-12-01

    Recent advances in numerical wave propagation modeling and station coverage have permitted robust inversion of infrasound data from volcanic explosions. Complex topography and crater morphology have been shown to substantially affect the infrasound waveform, suggesting that homogeneous acoustic propagation assumptions are invalid. Infrasound waveform inversion provides an exciting tool to accurately characterize emission volume and mass flux from both volcanic and non-volcanic explosions. Mass flux, arguably the most sought-after parameter from a volcanic eruption, can be determined from the volume flux using infrasound waveform inversion if the volcanic flow is well-characterized. Thus far, infrasound-based volume and mass flux estimates have yet to be validated. In February 2015 we deployed six infrasound stations around the explosive Sakurajima Volcano, Japan for 8 days. Here we present our full waveform inversion method and volume and mass flux estimates of numerous high amplitude explosions using a high resolution DEM and 3-D Finite Difference Time Domain modeling. Application of this technique to volcanic eruptions may produce realistic estimates of mass flux and plume height necessary for volcanic hazard mitigation. Several ground-based instruments and methods are used to independently determine the volume, composition, and mass flux of individual volcanic explosions. Specifically, we use ground-based ash sampling, multispectral infrared imagery, UV spectrometry, and multigas data to estimate the plume composition and flux. Unique tiltmeter data from underground tunnels at Sakurajima also provides a way to estimate the volume and mass of each explosion. In this presentation we compare the volume and mass flux estimates derived from the different methods and discuss sources of error and future improvements.

  7. Optical spectroscopy of laser-produced plasmas for standoff isotopic analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; LaHaye, N. L.; Hartig, K. C.; Phillips, M. C.

    2018-06-01

    Rapid, in-field, and non-contact isotopic analysis of solid materials is extremely important to a large number of applications, such as nuclear nonproliferation monitoring and forensics, geochemistry, archaeology, and biochemistry. Presently, isotopic measurements for these and many other fields are performed in laboratory settings. Rapid, in-field, and non-contact isotopic analysis of solid material is possible with optical spectroscopy tools when combined with laser ablation. Laser ablation generates a transient vapor of any solid material when a powerful laser interacts with a sample of interest. Analysis of atoms, ions, and molecules in a laser-produced plasma using optical spectroscopy tools can provide isotopic information with the advantages of real-time analysis, standoff capability, and no sample preparation requirement. Both emission and absorption spectroscopy methods can be used for isotopic analysis of solid materials. However, applying optical spectroscopy to the measurement of isotope ratios from solid materials presents numerous challenges. Isotope shifts arise primarily due to variation in nuclear charge distribution caused by different numbers of neutrons, but the small proportional nuclear mass differences between nuclei of various isotopes lead to correspondingly small differences in optical transition wavelengths. Along with this, various line broadening mechanisms in laser-produced plasmas and instrumental broadening generated by the detection system are technical challenges frequently encountered with emission-based optical diagnostics. These challenges can be overcome by measuring the isotope shifts associated with the vibronic emission bands from molecules or by using the techniques of laser-based absorption/fluorescence spectroscopy to marginalize the effect of instrumental broadening. Absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy probe the ground state atoms existing in the plasma when it is cooler, which inherently provides narrower lineshapes, as opposed to emission spectroscopy which requires higher plasma temperatures to be able to detect thermally excited emission. Improvements in laser and detection systems and spectroscopic techniques have allowed for isotopic measurements to be carried out at standoff distances under ambient atmospheric conditions, which have expanded the applicability of optical spectroscopy-based isotopic measurements to a variety of scientific fields. These technological advances offer an in-situ measurement capability that was previously not available. This review will focus on isotope detection through emission, absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms and molecules in a laser-produced plasma formed from a solid sample. A description of the physics behind isotope shifts in atoms and molecules is presented, followed by the physics behind solid sampling of laser ablation plumes, optical methods for isotope measurements, the suitable physical conditions of laser-produced plasma plumes for isotopic analysis, and the current status. Finally, concluding remarks will be made on the existing knowledge/technological gaps identified from the current literature and suggestions for the future work.

  8. A comparison of non-local electron transport models relevant to inertial confinement fusion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sherlock, Mark; Brodrick, Jonathan; Ridgers, Christopher

    2017-10-01

    We compare the reduced non-local electron transport model developed by Schurtz et al. to Vlasov-Fokker-Planck simulations. Two new test cases are considered: the propagation of a heat wave through a high density region into a lower density gas, and a 1-dimensional hohlraum ablation problem. We find the reduced model reproduces the peak heat flux well in the ablation region but significantly over-predicts the coronal preheat. The suitability of the reduced model for computing non-local transport effects other than thermal conductivity is considered by comparing the computed distribution function to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck distribution function. It is shown that even when the reduced model reproduces the correct heat flux, the distribution function is significantly different to the Vlasov-Fokker-Planck prediction. Two simple modifications are considered which improve agreement between models in the coronal region. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  9. Numerical Simulations of Free Surface Magnetohydrodynamic Flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Samulyak, Roman; Glimm, James; Oh, Wonho; Prykarpatskyy, Yarema

    2003-11-01

    We have developed a numerical algorithm and performed simulations of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) free surface flows. The corresponding system of MHD equations is a system of strongly coupled hyperbolic and parabolic/elliptic equations in moving and geometrically complex domains. The hyperbolic system is solved using the front tracking technique for the free fluid interface. Parallel algorithms for solving elliptic and parabolic equations are based on a finite element discretization on moving grids dynamically conforming to fluid interfaces. The method has been implemented as an MHD extension of the FronTier code. The code has been applied for modeling the behavior of lithium and mercury jets in magnetic fields, laser ablation plumes, and the Richtmyer-Meshkov instability of a liquid mercury jet interacting with a high energy proton pulse in a strong magnetic field. Such an instability occurs in the target for the Muon Collider.

  10. Standoff analysis of laser-produced plasmas using laser-induced fluorescence

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harilal, S. S.; Brumfield, B. E.; Phillips, M. C.

    We report the use of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) of laser ablation plumes for standoff applications. The standoff analysis of Al species, as major and minor species in samples, is performed in a nanosecond laser-produced plasma created at a distance ~10 m. The LIF analysis is performed by resonantly exciting an Al transition at 394.4 nm using a continuous wave (cw) tunable laser and by collecting the direct-line fluorescence signal at 396.15 nm. The spectral resolution of LIF is obtained by scanning the cw tunable LIF laser across the selected Al transition. Our results highlight that LIF provides enhanced signal intensity,more » emission persistence, and spectral resolution when compared to thermally-excited emission, and these are crucial considerations for using laser-produced plasma for standoff isotopic analysis.« less

  11. Analysis of Indium Tin Oxide Film Using Argon Fluroide (ArF) Laser-Excited Atomic Fluorescence of Ablated Plumes.

    PubMed

    Ho, Sut Kam; Garcia, Dario Machado

    2017-04-01

    A two-pulse laser-excited atomic fluorescence (LEAF) technique at 193 nm wavelength was applied to the analysis of indium tin oxide (ITO) layer on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. Fluorescence emissions from analytes were induced from plumes generated by first laser pulse. Using this approach, non-selective LEAF can be accomplished for simultaneous multi-element analysis and it overcomes the handicap of strict requirement for laser excitation wavelength. In this study, experimental conditions including laser fluences, times for gating and time delay between pulses were optimized to reveal high sensitivity with minimal sample destruction and penetration. With weak laser fluences of 100 and 125 mJ/cm 2 for 355 and 193 nm pulses, detection limits were estimated to be 0.10% and 0.43% for Sn and In, respectively. In addition, the relation between fluorescence emissions and number of laser shots was investigated; reproducible results were obtained for Sn and In. It shows the feasibility of depth profiling by this technique. Morphologies of samples were characterized at various laser fluences and number of shots to examine the accurate penetration. Images of craters were also investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrate the imperceptible destructiveness of film after laser shot. With such weak laser fluences and minimal destructiveness, this LEAF technique is suitable for thin-film analysis.

  12. Benefits of Atrial Substrate Modification Guided by Electrogram Similarity and Phase Mapping Techniques to Eliminate Rotors and Focal Sources Versus Conventional Defragmentation in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation.

    PubMed

    Lin, Yenn-Jiang; Lo, Men-Tzung; Chang, Shih-Lin; Lo, Li-Wei; Hu, Yu-Feng; Chao, Tze-Fan; Chung, Fa-Po; Liao, Jo-Nan; Lin, Chin-Yu; Kuo, Huan-Yu; Chang, Yi-Chung; Lin, Chen; Tuan, Ta-Chuan; Vincent Young, Hsu-Wen; Suenari, Kazuyoshi; Dan Do, Van Buu; Raharjo, Suunu Budhi; Huang, Norden E; Chen, Shih-Ann

    2016-11-01

    This prospective study compared the efficacy of atrial substrate modification guided by a nonlinear phase mapping technique with that of conventional substrate ablation. The optimal ablation strategy for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) was unknown. In phase 1 study, we applied a cellular automation technique to simulate the electrical wave propagation to improve the phase mapping algorithm, involving analysis of high-similarity electrogram regions. In addition, we defined rotors and focal AF sources, using the physical parameters of the divergence and curvature forces. In phase 2 study, we enrolled 68 patients with persistent AF undergoing substrate modification into 2 groups, group-1 (n = 34) underwent similarity index (SI) and phase mapping techniques; group-2 (n = 34) received complex fractionated atrial electrogram ablation with commercially available software. Group-1 received real-time waveform similarity measurements in which a phase mapping algorithm was applied to localize the sources. We evaluated the single-procedure freedom from AF. In group-1, we identified an average of 2.6 ± 0.89 SI regions per chamber. These regions involved rotors and focal sources in 65% and 77% of patients in group-1, respectively. Group-1 patients had shorter ablation procedure times, higher termination rates, and significant reduction in AF recurrence compared to group-2 and a trend toward benefit for all atrial arrhythmias. Multivariate analysis showed that substrate mapping using nonlinear similarity and phase mapping was the independent predictor of freedom from AF recurrence (hazard ratio: 0.26; 95% confidence interval: 0.09 to 0.74; p = 0.01). Our study showed that for persistent AF ablation, a specified substrate modification guided by nonlinear phase mapping could eliminate localized re-entry and non-pulmonary focal sources after pulmonary vein isolation. Copyright © 2016 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Why plasma harmonics?

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ganeev, R A

    We discuss the emergence of interest in the high-order harmonic generation (HHG) of ultrashort pulses propagated through laser-produced plasmas. It is shown that, during the last few years, substantial amendments of plasma HHG allowed in some cases the characteristics of gas HHG to be surpassed. The attractiveness of a new approach in coherent extreme ultraviolet radiation generation is demonstrated, which can also be used as a tool for laser-ablation-induced HHG spectroscopy of a giant class of solids. We present general ideas and prospects for this relatively new field of nonlinear optics. (review)

  14. Validation of High-Fidelity CFD/CAA Framework for Launch Vehicle Acoustic Environment Simulation against Scale Model Test Data

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Liever, Peter A.; West, Jeffrey S.

    2016-01-01

    A hybrid Computational Fluid Dynamics and Computational Aero-Acoustics (CFD/CAA) modeling framework has been developed for launch vehicle liftoff acoustic environment predictions. The framework couples the existing highly-scalable NASA production CFD code, Loci/CHEM, with a high-order accurate discontinuous Galerkin solver developed in the same production framework, Loci/THRUST, to accurately resolve and propagate acoustic physics across the entire launch environment. Time-accurate, Hybrid RANS/LES CFD modeling is applied for predicting the acoustic generation physics at the plume source, and a high-order accurate unstructured discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method is employed to propagate acoustic waves away from the source across large distances using high-order accurate schemes. The DG solver is capable of solving 2nd, 3rd, and 4th order Euler solutions for non-linear, conservative acoustic field propagation. Initial application testing and validation has been carried out against high resolution acoustic data from the Ares Scale Model Acoustic Test (ASMAT) series to evaluate the capabilities and production readiness of the CFD/CAA system to resolve the observed spectrum of acoustic frequency content. This paper presents results from this validation and outlines efforts to mature and improve the computational simulation framework.

  15. Production of cattle lacking prion protein

    PubMed Central

    Richt, Jürgen A; Kasinathan, Poothappillai; Hamir, Amir N; Castilla, Joaquin; Sathiyaseelan, Thillai; Vargas, Francisco; Sathiyaseelan, Janaki; Wu, Hua; Matsushita, Hiroaki; Koster, Julie; Kato, Shinichiro; Ishida, Isao; Soto, Claudio; Robl, James M; Kuroiwa, Yoshimi

    2010-01-01

    Prion diseases are caused by propagation of misfolded forms of the normal cellular prion protein PrPC, such as PrPBSE in bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle and PrPCJD in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in humans1. Disruption of PrPC expression in mice, a species that does not naturally contract prion diseases, results in no apparent developmental abnormalities2–5. However, the impact of ablating PrPC function in natural host species of prion diseases is unknown. Here we report the generation and characterization of PrPC-deficient cattle produced by a sequential gene-targeting system6. At over 20 months of age, the cattle are clinically, physiologically, histopathologically, immunologically and reproductively normal. Brain tissue homogenates are resistant to prion propagation in vitro as assessed by protein misfolding cyclic amplification7. PrPC-deficient cattle may be a useful model for prion research and could provide industrial bovine products free of prion proteins. PMID:17195841

  16. Io meteorology - How atmospheric pressure is controlled locally by volcanos and surface frosts

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ingersoll, Andrew P.

    1989-01-01

    The present modification of the Ingersoll et al. (1985) hydrodynamic model of the SO2 gas sublimation-driven flow from the day to the night side of Io includes the effects of nonuniform surface properties noted in observational studies. Calculations are conducted for atmospheric pressures, horizontal winds, sublimation rates, and condensation rates for such surface conditions as patchy and continuous frost cover, volcanic venting, surface temperature discontinuities, subsurface cold trapping, and the propagation of insolation into the frost. While pressure is found to follow local vapor pressure away from the plumes, it becomes higher inside them.

  17. A meteorological and chemical overview of the DACCIWA field campaign in West Africa in June-July 2016

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Knippertz, Peter; Fink, Andreas H.; Deroubaix, Adrien; Morris, Eleanor; Tocquer, Flore; Evans, Mat J.; Flamant, Cyrille; Gaetani, Marco; Lavaysse, Christophe; Mari, Celine; Marsham, John H.; Meynadier, Rémi; Affo-Dogo, Abalo; Bahaga, Titike; Brosse, Fabien; Deetz, Konrad; Guebsi, Ridha; Latifou, Issaou; Maranan, Marlon; Rosenberg, Philip D.; Schlueter, Andreas

    2017-09-01

    In June and July 2016 the Dynamics-Aerosol-Chemistry-Cloud Interactions in West Africa (DACCIWA) project organised a major international field campaign in southern West Africa (SWA) including measurements from three inland ground supersites, urban sites in Cotonou and Abidjan, radiosondes, and three research aircraft. A significant range of different weather situations were encountered during this period, including the monsoon onset. The purpose of this paper is to characterise the large-scale setting for the campaign as well as synoptic and mesoscale weather systems affecting the study region in the light of existing conceptual ideas, mainly using objective and subjective identification algorithms based on (re-)analysis and satellite products. In addition, it is shown how the described synoptic variations influence the atmospheric composition over SWA through advection of mineral dust, biomass burning and urban pollution plumes.The boreal summer of 2016 was characterised by Pacific La Niña, Atlantic El Niño and warm eastern Mediterranean conditions, whose competing influences on precipitation led to an overall average rainy season. During the relatively dusty pre-onset Phase 1 (1-21 June 2016), three westward-propagating coherent cyclonic vortices between 4 and 13° N modulated winds and rainfall in the Guinea coastal area. The monsoon onset occurred in connection with a marked extratropical trough and cold surge over northern Africa, leading to a breakdown of the Saharan heat low and African easterly jet and a suppression of rainfall. During this period, quasi-stationary low-level vortices associated with the trough transformed into more tropical, propagating disturbances resembling an African easterly wave (AEW). To the east of this system, moist southerlies penetrated deep into the continent. The post-onset Phase 2 (22 June-20 July 2016) was characterised by a significant increase in low-level cloudiness, unusually dry conditions and strong northeastward dispersion of urban pollution plumes in SWA as well as rainfall modulation by westward-propagating AEWs in the Sahel. Around 12-14 July 2016 an interesting and so-far undocumented cyclonic-anticyclonic vortex couplet crossed SWA. The anticyclonic centre had its origin in the Southern Hemisphere and transported unusually dry air filled with aged aerosol into the region. During Phase 3 (21-26 July 2016), a similar vortex couplet slightly farther north created enhanced westerly moisture transports into SWA and extraordinarily wet conditions, accompanied by a deep penetration of the biomass burning plume from central Africa. Finally, a return to more undisturbed monsoon conditions took place during Phase 4 (27-31 July 2016). The in-depth synoptic analysis reveals that several significant weather systems during the DACCIWA campaign cannot be attributed unequivocally to any of the tropical waves and disturbances described in the literature and thus deserve further study.

  18. Beam displacement as a function of temperature and turbulence length scale at two different laser radiation wavelengths.

    PubMed

    Isterling, William M; Dally, Bassam B; Alwahabi, Zeyad T; Dubovinsky, Miro; Wright, Daniel

    2012-01-01

    Narrow laser beams directed from aircraft may at times pass through the exhaust plume of the engines and potentially degrade some of the laser beam characteristics. This paper reports on controlled studies of laser beam deviation arising from propagation through turbulent hot gases, in a well-characterized laboratory burner, with conditions of relevance to aircraft engine exhaust plumes. The impact of the temperature, laser wavelength, and turbulence length scale on the beam deviation has been investigated. It was found that the laser beam displacement increases with the turbulent integral length scale. The effect of temperature on the laser beam angular deviation, σ, using two different laser wavelengths, namely 4.67 μm and 632.8 nm, was recorded. It was found that the beam deviation for both wavelengths may be semiempirically modeled using a single function of the form, σ=a(b+(1/T)(2))(-1), with two parameters only, a and b, where σ is in microradians and T is the temperature in °C. © 2012 Optical Society of America

  19. Laboratory modeling of multiple zonal jets on the polar beta-plane

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Afanasyev, Y.

    2011-12-01

    Zonal jets observed in the oceans and atmospheres of planets are studied in a laboratory rotating tank. The fluid layer in the rotating tank has parabolic free surface and dynamically simulates the polar beta-plane where the Coriolis parameter varies quadratically with distance from the pole. Velocity and surface elevation fields are measured with an optical altimetry method (Afanasyev et al., Exps Fluids 2009). The flows are induced by a localized buoyancy source along radial direction. The baroclinic flow consisting of a field of eddies propagates away from the source due West and forms zonal jets (Fig. 1). Barotropic jets ahead of the baroclinic flow are formed by radiation of beta plumes. Inside the baroclinic flow the jets flow between the chains of eddies. Experimental evidence of so-called noodles (baroclinic instability mode with motions in the radial, North-South direction) theoretically predicted by Berloff et al. (JFM, JPO 2009) was found in our experiments. Beta plume radiation mechanism and the mechanism associated with the instability of noodles are likely to contribute to formation of jets in the baroclinic flow.

  20. Potential of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for discrimination of nano-sized carbon materials. Insights on the optical characterization of graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Serrano, J.; Cabalín, L. M.; Moros, J.; Laserna, J. J.

    2014-07-01

    Since its invention in 2004, graphene has attracted considerable interest worldwide. Advances in the use of graphene in materials science and engineering require important increases in the quality of the final product for integration in photonic and electronic devices. To meet this demand, which will become increasingly strict in the future, analytical techniques capable of differentiating between the starting materials and graphene need to be developed. The interest in the use of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for this application rests on the rapid progress experienced by this technology for identification of carbon-based materials of close chemical composition. The potential of LIBS has been explored here by a careful investigation of the spectral properties of both multi-layer and few-layer graphene, graphite and graphene oxide. Results reveal significant differences in the specific optical emission responses of these materials, expressly reflected on the behavior of CN and C2 molecular emissions. These differences result from the particularities of the materials, such as the number of carbon layers and the carbon hybridization in the bonding structure, together with the post-ablation evolution of the concerned plasma plume. In short, this interconnection between ablation and emission events generated from each material allows its characterization and its differentiation from other materials with highly similar chemical composition.

  1. Superconducting thin films of Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O by laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bedekar, M. M.; Safari, A.; Wilber, W.

    1992-11-01

    Superconducting thin films of Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O have been deposited by KrF excimer laser ablation. The best in situ films showed a Tc onset of 110 K and a Tc(0) of 76 K. A study of the laser plume revealed the presence of two distinct regimes. The forward directed component increased with fluence and the film composition was stoichiometric in this region. This is in agreement with the results on the 123 system by Venkatesan et al. [1]. The film properties were found to be critically dependent on the substrate temperature and temperatures close to melting gave rise to 2212 and 2223 phases. At lower temperatures, 2201 and amorphous phases were obtained. The film morphology and superconducting properties were a function of the target to substrate distance and the oxygen pressure during deposition and cooling. An increase in the target to substrate distance led to a deterioration of the properties due to the energy consideration for the formation of 2212 and 2223 phases. The best films were obtained using cooling pressures of 700 Torr. The microwave surface resistance of the films measured at 35 GHz dropped below that of copper at 30 K. Film growth was studied using X-ray diffraction and STM/AFM. This work is a discussion of the role of the different variables on the film properties.

  2. Continental breakup of the Central Atlantic and the initiation of the southern Central Atlantic Magmatic Province: revisiting the role of a mantle plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rohrman, M.

    2017-12-01

    Central Atlantic breakup is strongly associated with magmatism of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP), although the exact mechanism, as well as the temporal and spatial relations, have so far been poorly constrained. Here, I propose a mantle plume origin for the 200 Ma southern Central Atlantic Province (CAMP), based on an original plume conduit location off southeastern Florida, linking Early Jurassic rift systems: One rift arm is defined by the Takutu rift in present-day Guyana and Brazil, extending all the way past the Demerara Rise. This rift is linking up with a second arm from the Bahamas basin to the Blake Plateau basin. Finally, there is the third, failed rift between the Demerara Rise and the Guinea Plateau. This rift system post-dates earlier Triassic rift systems along the US eastcoast and in the subsurface of Arkansas, Texas, the Gulf of Mexico and northern South America. Chronostratigraphic analysis of outcrop, wells and seismic data near the proposed conduit, suggest initial Rhaetian uplift, followed by dike/sill intrusions feeding flood basalts and the initiation of igneous centers at the triple point. The latter resulted in various subsequent uplift and subsidence events, as a result of volcanic construction and erosion. The load of the volcanic edifice generated a point of weakness, allowing favorable plate stresses to generate rift systems, propagating away from the rift junction and eventually break up Pangea. The breakup is marked by the magmatic breakup (un)conformity on seismic data, separating hotspot/plume sourced Seaward Dipping reflectors (SDRs) within the continental rift system, from early ocean spreading sourced SDRs. As ocean spreading continued, the volcanic construction evolved into a hotspot track, now recognized as the Bahamas island trail. Time progression of this hotspot track resembles the present-day Iceland hotspot track, as suggested by plate reconstructions (Figure 1). Based on melting depth estimates from Sm/Yb ratios of outcropping intrusives in northwestern Africa, eastern USA and northern South America, the initial flattened plume disc must have been 200 km thick with a radius 2000 km to account for widespread magmatism in the southern CAMP.

  3. A 3-D Navier-Stokes CFD study of turbojet/ramjet nozzle plume interactions at Mach 3.0 and comparison with data

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chang, Ing; Hunter, Louis G.

    1995-01-01

    Advanced airbreathing propulsion systems used in Mach 4-6 mission scenarios, usually consist of a single integrated turboramjet or as in this study, a turbojet housed in an upper bay with a separate ramjet housed in a lower bay. As the engines transition from turbojet to ramjet, there is an operational envelope where both engines operate simultaneously. One nozzle concept under consideration has a common nozzle, where the plumes from the turbojet and ramjet interact with one another as they expand to ambient conditions. In this paper, the two plumes interact at the end of a common 2-D cowl, when they both reach an approximate Mach 3.0 condition and then jointly expand to Mach 3.6 at the common nozzle exit plane. At this condition, the turbojet engine operated at a higher NPR than the ramjet, where the turbojet overpowers the ramjet plume, deflecting it approximately 12 degrees downward and in turn the turbojet plume is deflected 6 degrees upward. In the process, shocks were formed at the deflections and a shear layer formed at the confluence of the two jets. This particular case was experimentally tested and the data used to compare with the PARC3D code with k-kl two equation turbulence model. The 2-D and 3-D centerline CFD solutions are in good agreement, but as the CFD solutions approach the outer sidewall, a slight variance occurs. The outer wall boundary layers are thin and do not present much of an interaction, however, where the confluence interaction shocks interact with the thin boundary layer on the outer wall, strong vortices run down each shock causing substantial disturbances in the boundary layer. These disturbances amplify somewhat as they propagate downstream axially from the confluence point. The nozzle coefficient (CFG) is reduced 1/2 percent as a result of this sidewall interaction, from 0.9850 to 0.9807. This three-dimensional reduction is in better agreement with the experimental value of 0.9790.

  4. Development of a technology for fabricating low-cost parallel optical interconnects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Van Steenberge, Geert; Hendrickx, Nina; Geerinck, Peter; Bosman, Erwin; Van Put, Steven; Van Daele, Peter

    2006-04-01

    We present a fabrication technology for integrating polymer waveguides and 45° micromirror couplers into standard electrical printed circuit boards (PCBs). The most critical point that is being addressed is the low-cost manufacturing and the compatibility with current PCB production. The latter refers to the processes as well as material compatibility. In the fist part the waveguide fabrication technology is discussed, both photo lithography and laser ablation are proposed. It is shown that a frequency tripled Nd-YAG laser (355 nm) offers a lot of potential for defining single mode interconnections. Emphasis is on multimode waveguides, defined by KrF excimer laser (248 nm) ablation using acrylate polymers. The first conclusion out of loss spectrum measurements is a 'yellowing effect' of laser ablated waveguides, leading to an increased loss at shorter wavelengths. The second important conclusion is a potential low loss at a wavelength of 850 nm, 980 nm and 1310 nm. This is verified at 850 nm by cut-back measurements on 10-cm-long waveguides showing an average propagation loss of 0.13 dB/cm. Photo lithographically defined waveguides using inorganic-organic hybrid polymers show an attenuation loss of 0.15 dB/cm at 850 nm. The generation of debris and the presence of microstructures are two main concerns for KrF excimer laser ablation of hybrid polymers. In the second part a process for embedding metal coated 45° micromirrors in optical waveguiding layers is described. Mirrors are selectively metallized using a lift-off process. Filling up the angled via without the presence of air bubbles and providing a flat surface above the mirror is only possible by enhancing the cladding deposition process with ultrasound agitation. Initial loss measurements indicate an excess mirror loss of 1.5 dB.

  5. Panoramic Electrophysiological Mapping but not Electrogram Morphology Identifies Stable Sources for Human Atrial Fibrillation

    PubMed Central

    Narayan, Sanjiv M.; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; Krummen, David E.; Miller, John M.; Rappel, Wouter-Jan

    2013-01-01

    Background The foundation for successful arrhythmia ablation is the mapping of electric propagation to identify underlying mechanisms. In atrial fibrillation (AF), however, mapping is difficult so that ablation has often targeted electrogram features, with mixed results. We hypothesized that wide field-of-view (panoramic) mapping of both atria would identify causal mechanisms for AF and allow interpretation of local electrogram features, including complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE). Methods and Results Contact mapping was performed using biatrial multipolar catheters in 36 AF subjects (29 persistent). Stable AF rotors (spiral waves) or focal sources were seen in 35 of 36 cases and targeted for ablation (focal impulse and rotor modulation) before pulmonary vein isolation. In 31 of 36 subjects (86.1%), AF acutely terminated (n=20; 16 to sinus rhythm) or organized (n=11; 19±8% slowing) with 2.5 minutes focal impulse and rotor modulation (interquartile range, 1.0–3.1) at one source, defined as the primary source. Subjects exhibited 2.1±1.0 concurrent AF sources of which the primary, by phase mapping, precessed in limited areas (persistent 2.5±1.7 versus paroxysmal 1.7±0.5 cm2; P=0.30). Notably, source regions showed mixed electrogram amplitudes and CFAE grades that did not differ from surrounding atrium (P=NS). AF sources were not consistently surrounded by CFAE (P=0.67). Conclusions Stable rotors and focal sources for human AF were revealed by contact panoramic mapping (focal impulse and rotor modulation mapping), but not by electrogram footprints. AF sources precessed within areas of ≈2 cm2, with diverse voltage characteristics poorly correlated with CFAE. Most CFAE sites lie remote from AF sources and are not suitable targets for catheter ablation of AF. PMID:23392583

  6. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Regan, S.P.

    This volume of the LLE Review, covering the period October--December 1998, includes two articles addressing issues applicable to direct-drive ICF on the National Ignition Facility (NIF): laser-plasma interactions and laser-irradiation uniformity. Additional highlights of the research presented in this issue are: (1) P.B. Radha and S. Skupsky present a novel charged-particle diagnostic that performs simultaneous {rho}R measurements of the fuel, shell, and ablator regions of a compressed ICF target, consisting of an inner DT fuel region, a plastic (CH) shell, and an ablator (CD), by measuring the knock-on deuteron spectrum. (2) F. Dahmani, S. Burns, J. Lambropoulos, S. Papernov, andmore » A. Schmid report results from stress-inhibited laser-driven crack propagation and stress-delayed damage-initiation experiments in fused silica at 351 nm. Research is underway presently to determine the ramifications of these findings for large-aperture systems, such as OMEGA. (3) V. Goncharov presents an analytic theory of the ablative Richtmyer-Meshkov instability, which shows that the main stabilizing mechanism of the ablation-front perturbations is the dynamic overpressure of the blowoff plasma with respect to the target material. The perturbation evolution during the shock transit time is studied to determine the initial conditions for the Rayleigh-Taylor phase of the instability and to analyze the level of laser imprint on ICF direct-drive targets. (4) J.M. Larkin, W.R. Donaldson, T.H. Foster, and R.S. Knox examine the triplet state of rose bengal, a dye used in photodynamic therapy, that is produced by 1,064-nm excitation of T{sub 1}. (5) R. Adam, M. Currie, R. Sobolewski, O. Harnack, and M. Darula report measurements of the picosecond photoresponse of a current-biased YBCO microbridge coupled to a bicrystal YBCO Josephson junction.« less

  7. Feasibility study of modeling liver thermal damage using minimally invasive optical method adequate for in situ measurement.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jinzhe; Zhao, Qi; Jiang, Yingxu; Li, Weitao; Yang, Yamin; Qian, Zhiyu; Liu, Jia

    2018-06-01

    Liver thermal ablation techniques have been widely used for the treatment of liver cancer. Kinetic model of damage propagation play an important role for ablation prediction and real-time efficacy assessment. However, practical methods for modeling liver thermal damage are rare. A minimally invasive optical method especially adequate for in situ liver thermal damage modeling is introduced in this paper. Porcine liver tissue was heated by water bath under different temperatures. During thermal treatment, diffuse reflectance spectrum of liver was measured by optical fiber and used to deduce reduced scattering coefficient (μ ' s ). Arrhenius parameters were obtained through non-isothermal heating approach with damage marker of μ ' s . Activation energy (E a ) and frequency factor (A) was deduced from these experiments. A pair of averaged value is 1.200 × 10 5  J mol -1 and 4.016 × 10 17  s -1 . The results were verified for their reasonableness and practicality. Therefore, it is feasible to modeling liver thermal damage based on minimally invasive measurement of optical property and in situ kinetic analysis of damage progress with Arrhenius model. These parameters and this method are beneficial for preoperative planning and real-time efficacy assessment of liver ablation therapy. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. Spatio-temporal variability of internal waves in the northern Gulf of Mexico studied with the Navy Coastal Ocean Model, NCOM

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cambazoglu, M. K.; Jacobs, G. A.; Howden, S. D.; Book, J. W.; Arnone, R.; Soto Ramos, I. M.; Vandermeulen, R. A.; Greer, A. T.; Miles, T. N.

    2016-02-01

    Internal waves enhance mixing in the upper ocean, transport nutrients and plankton over the water column and across the shelf from deeper waters to shallower coastal areas, and could also transport pollutants such as hydrocarbons onshore during an oil spill event. This study aims to characterize internal waves in the northern Gulf of Mexico (nGoM) and investigate the possible generation and dissipation mechanisms using a high-resolution (1-km) application of the Navy Coastal Ocean Model (NCOM). Three dimensional model products are used to detect the propagation patterns of internal waves. The vertical structure of internal waves is studied and the role of stratification is analyzed by looking at the temperature, salinity and velocity variations along the water column. The model predictions suggest the generation of internal waves on the continental shelf, therefore the role of ocean bottom topography interacting with tides and general circulation features such as the Loop Current Eddy front, on the internal wave generation will be discussed. The time periods of internal wave occurrences are identified from model predictions and compared to satellite ocean color imagery. Further data analysis, e.g. Fourier analysis, is implemented to determine internal wavelengths and frequencies and to determine if the response of internal waves are at tidal periods or at different frequencies. The atmospheric forcing provided to NCOM and meteorological data records are analyzed to define the interaction between wind forcing and internal wave generation. Wavelet analysis characterizes the ocean response to atmospheric events with periodic frequencies. Ocean color satellite imagery was used to visualize the location of the Mississippi river plume (and other oceanic features) and compared to the model predictions because the enhanced stratification from freshwater plumes which propagate across the Mississippi Bight can provide favorable conditions in coastal waters for internal wave generation and propagation. The findings of this study will provide insight about the internal wave dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico and their potential impact on the marine ecosystem.

  9. Effects of ethanol addition on micellar solubilization and plume migration during surfactant enhanced recovery of tetrachloroethene.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Tammy P; Rathfelder, Klaus M; Pennell, Kurt D; Abriola, Linda M

    2004-03-01

    Alcohol addition has been suggested for use in combination with surfactant flushing to enhance solubilization kinetics and permit density control of dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL)-laden surfactant plumes. This study examined the effects of adding ethanol (EtOH) to a 4% Tween 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate) solution used to flush tetrachloroethene (PCE)-contaminated porous media. The influence of EtOH concentration, subsurface layering and scale on flushing solution delivery and PCE recovery was investigated through a combination of experimental and mathematical modeling studies. Results of batch experiments demonstrated that the addition of 2.5%, 5% and 10% (wt.) EtOH incrementally increased the PCE solubilization capacity and viscosity of the surfactant solution, while reducing solution density from 1.002 to 0.986 g/cm3. Effluent concentration data obtained from one-dimensional (1-D) column experiments were used to characterize rate-limited micellar solubilization of residual PCE, which was strongly dependent upon flow velocity and weakly dependent upon EtOH concentration. Two-dimensional (2-D) box studies illustrated that minor differences (0.008 g/cm3) between flushing and resident solution density can strongly influence surfactant front propagation. A two-dimensional multiphase simulator, MISER, was used to model the influence of EtOH composition on the aqueous flow field and PCE mass recovery. The ability of the numerical simulator to predict effluent concentrations and front propagation was demonstrated for both 1-D columns and 2-D boxes flushed with EtOH-amended Tween 80 solutions. Results of this study quantify the potential influence of alcohol addition on surfactant solution properties and solubilization capacity, and demonstrate the importance of considering small density variations in remedial design.

  10. Hydroacoustic, infrasonic and seismic monitoring of the submarine eruptive activity and sub-aerial plume generation at South Sarigan, May 2010

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Green, David N.; Evers, Läslo G.; Fee, David; Matoza, Robin S.; Snellen, Mirjam; Smets, Pieter; Simons, Dick

    2013-05-01

    Explosive submarine volcanic processes are poorly understood, due to the difficulties associated with both direct observation and continuous monitoring. In this study hydroacoustic, infrasound, and seismic signals recorded during the May 2010 submarine eruption of South Sarigan seamount, Marianas Arc, are used to construct a detailed event chronology. The signals were recorded on stations of the International Monitoring System, which is a component of the verification measures for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. Numerical hydroacoustic and infrasound propagation modelling confirms that viable propagation paths from the source to receivers exist, and provide traveltimes allowing signals recorded on the different technologies to be associated. The eruption occurred in three stages, separated by three-hour periods of quiescence. 1) A 46 h period during which broadband impulsive hydroacoustic signals were generated in clusters lasting between 2 and 13 min. 95% of the 7602 identified events could be classified into 4 groups based on their waveform similarity. The time interval between clusters decreased steadily from 80 to 25 min during this period. 2) A five-hour period of 10 Hz hydroacoustic tremor, interspersed with large-amplitude, broadband signals. Associated infrasound signals were also recorded at this time. 3) An hour-long period of transient broadband events culminated in two large-amplitude hydroacoustic events and one broadband infrasound signal. A speculative interpretation, consistent with the data, suggests that during phase (1) transitions between endogenous dome growth and phreatomagmatic explosions occurred with the magma ascent rate accelerating throughout the period; during phase (2) continuous venting of fragmented magma occurred, and was powerful enough to breach the sea surface. During the climactic phase (3) discrete powerful explosions occurred, and sufficient seawater was vaporised to produce the contemporaneous 12 km altitude steam plume.

  11. Investigating seismic anisotropy beneath the Reykjanes Ridge using models of mantle flow, crystallographic evolution, and surface wave propagation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gallego, A.; Ito, G.; Dunn, R. A.

    2013-08-01

    Surface wave studies of the Reykjanes Ridge (RR) and the Iceland hotspot have imaged an unusual and enigmatic pattern of two zones of negative radial anisotropy on each side of the RR. We test previously posed and new hypotheses for the origin of this anisotropy, by considering lattice preferred orientation (LPO) of olivine A-type fabric in simple models with 1-D, layered structures, as well as in 2-D and 3-D geodynamic models with mantle flow and LPO evolution. Synthetic phase velocities of Love and Rayleigh waves traveling parallel to the ridge axis are produced and then inverted to mimic the previous seismic studies. Results of 1-D models show that strong negative radial anisotropy can be produced when olivine a axes are preferentially aligned not only vertically but also subhorizontally in the plane of wave propagation. Geodynamic models show that negative anisotropy on the sides of the RR can occur when plate spreading impels a corner flow, and in turn a subvertical alignment of olivine a axes, on the sides of the ridge axis. Mantle dehydration must be invoked to form a viscous upper layer that minimizes the disturbance of the corner flow by the Iceland mantle plume. While the results are promising, important discrepancies still exist between the observed seismic structure and the predictions of this model, as well as models of a variety of types of mantle flow associated with plume-ridge interaction. Thus, other factors that influence seismic anisotropy, but not considered in this study, such as power-law rheology, water, melt, or time-dependent mantle flow, are probably important beneath the Reykjanes Ridge.

  12. Simulation for Prediction of Entry Article Demise (SPEAD): an Analysis Tool for Spacecraft Safety Analysis and Ascent/Reentry Risk Assessment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ling, Lisa

    2014-01-01

    For the purpose of performing safety analysis and risk assessment for a probable offnominal suborbital/orbital atmospheric reentry resulting in vehicle breakup, a synthesis of trajectory propagation coupled with thermal analysis and the evaluation of node failure is required to predict the sequence of events, the timeline, and the progressive demise of spacecraft components. To provide this capability, the Simulation for Prediction of Entry Article Demise (SPEAD) analysis tool was developed. This report discusses the capabilities, modeling, and validation of the SPEAD analysis tool. SPEAD is applicable for Earth or Mars, with the option for 3 or 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) trajectory propagation. The atmosphere and aerodynamics data are supplied in tables, for linear interpolation of up to 4 independent variables. The gravitation model can include up to 20 zonal harmonic coefficients. The modeling of a single motor is available and can be adapted to multiple motors. For thermal analysis, the aerodynamic radiative and free-molecular/continuum convective heating, black-body radiative cooling, conductive heat transfer between adjacent nodes, and node ablation are modeled. In a 6- DOF simulation, the local convective heating on a node is a function of Mach, angle-ofattack, and sideslip angle, and is dependent on 1) the location of the node in the spacecraft and its orientation to the flow modeled by an exposure factor, and 2) the geometries of the spacecraft and the node modeled by a heating factor and convective area. Node failure is evaluated using criteria based on melting temperature, reference heat load, g-load, or a combination of the above. The failure of a liquid propellant tank is evaluated based on burnout flux from nucleate boiling or excess internal pressure. Following a component failure, updates are made as needed to the spacecraft mass and aerodynamic properties, nodal exposure and heating factors, and nodal convective and conductive areas. This allows the trajectory to be propagated seamlessly in a single run, inclusive of the trajectories of components that have separated from the spacecraft. The node ablation simulates the decreasing mass and convective/reference areas, and variable heating factor. A built-in database provides the thermo-mechanical properties of For the purpose of performing safety analysis and risk assessment for a probable offnominal suborbital/orbital atmospheric reentry resulting in vehicle breakup, a synthesis of trajectory propagation coupled with thermal analysis and the evaluation of node failure is required to predict the sequence of events, the timeline, and the progressive demise of spacecraft components. To provide this capability, the Simulation for Prediction of Entry Article Demise (SPEAD) analysis tool was developed. This report discusses the capabilities, modeling, and validation of the SPEAD analysis tool. SPEAD is applicable for Earth or Mars, with the option for 3 or 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) trajectory propagation. The atmosphere and aerodynamics data are supplied in tables, for linear interpolation of up to 4 independent variables. The gravitation model can include up to 20 zonal harmonic coefficients. The modeling of a single motor is available and can be adapted to multiple motors. For thermal analysis, the aerodynamic radiative and free-molecular/continuum convective heating, black-body radiative cooling, conductive heat transfer between adjacent nodes, and node ablation are modeled. In a 6- DOF simulation, the local convective heating on a node is a function of Mach, angle-ofattack, and sideslip angle, and is dependent on 1) the location of the node in the spacecraft and its orientation to the flow modeled by an exposure factor, and 2) the geometries of the spacecraft and the node modeled by a heating factor and convective area. Node failure is evaluated using criteria based on melting temperature, reference heat load, g-load, or a combination of the above. The failure of a liquid propellant tank is evaluated based on burnout flux from nucleate boiling or excess internal pressure. Following a component failure, updates are made as needed to the spacecraft mass and aerodynamic properties, nodal exposure and heating factors, and nodal convective and conductive areas. This allows the trajectory to be propagated seamlessly in a single run, inclusive of the trajectories of components that have separated from the spacecraft. The node ablation simulates the decreasing mass and convective/reference areas, and variable heating factor. A built-in database provides the thermo-mechanical properties of

  13. Micro sculpting technology using DPSSL

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chang, Won-Seok; Shin, Bosung; Kim, Jae-gu; Whang, Kyung-Hyun

    2003-11-01

    Multiple pulse laser ablation of polymer is performed with DPSS (Diode Pumped Solid State) 3rd harmonic Nd:YVO4 laser (355 nm) in order to fabricate three-dimensional micro components. Here we considered mechanistic aspects of the interaction between UV laser and polymer to obtain optimum process conditions for maskless photomachining using DPSSL. The photo-physical and photochemical parameters such as laser wavelength and optical characteristics of polymers are investigated by experiments to reduce plume effect, which induce the re-deposited debris on the surface of substrate. In this study, LDST (laser direct sculpting technique) are developed to gain various three-dimensional shape with size less than 500 micrometer. Main process sequences are from rapid prototyping technology such as CAD/CAM modeling of products, machining path generation, layer-by-layer machining, and so on. This method can be applied to manufacture the prototype of micro device and the polymer mould for mass production without expensive mask fabrication.

  14. Debris-free rear-side picosecond laser ablation of thin germanium wafers in water with ethanol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Dongshi; Gökce, Bilal; Sommer, Steffen; Streubel, René; Barcikowski, Stephan

    2016-03-01

    In this paper, we perform liquid-assisted picosecond laser cutting of 150 μm thin germanium wafers from the rear side. By investigating the cutting efficiency (the ability to allow an one-line cut-through) and quality (characterized by groove morphologies on both sides), the pros and cons of this technique under different conditions are clarified. Specifically, with laser fluence fixed, repetition rate and scanning speed are varied to show quality and efficiency control by means of laser parameter modulation. It is found that low repetition rate ablation in liquid gives rise to a better cut quality on the front side than high repetition rate ablation since it avoids dispersed nanoparticles redeposition resulting from a bubble collapse, unlike the case of 100 kHz which leads to large nanorings near the grooves resulting from a strong interaction of bubbles and the case of 50 kHz which leads to random cutting due to the interaction of the former pulse induced cavitation bubble and the subsequent laser pulse. Furthermore, ethanol is mixed with pure distilled water to assess the liquid's impact on the cutting efficiency and cutting quality. The results show that increasing the ethanol fraction decreases the ablation efficiency but simultaneously, greatly improves the cutting quality. The improvement of cut quality as ethanol ratio increases may be attributed to less laser beam interference by a lower density of bubbles which adhere near the cut kerf during ablation. A higher density of bubbles generated from ethanol vaporization during laser ablation in liquid will cause stronger bubble shielding effect toward the laser beam propagation and therefore result in less laser energy available for the cut, which is the main reason for the decrease of cut efficiency in water-ethanol mixtures. Our findings give an insight into under which condition the rear-side laser cutting of thin solar cells should be performed: high repetition, pure distilled water and high laser power are favorable for high-speed rough cutting but the cut kerf suffers from strong side effects of ripples, nanoredeposition occurrence, while low laser power at low repetition rate (10 kHz), mixed solution (1 wt% ethanol in water) and moderate scanning speed (100 μm/s) are preferable for ultrafine high-quality debris-free cutting. The feasibility of high-quality cut is a good indication of using rear laser ablation in liquid to cut thinner wafers. More importantly, this technique spares any post cleaning steps to reduce the risk to the contamination or crack of the thin wafers.

  15. Ultrasound wave propagation in tissue and scattering from microbubbles for echo particle image velocimetry technique.

    PubMed

    Mukdadi, Osama; Shandas, Robin

    2004-01-01

    Nonlinear wave propagation in tissue can be employed for tissue harmonic imaging, ultrasound surgery, and more effective tissue ablation for high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Wave propagation in soft tissue and scattering from microbubbles (ultrasound contrast agents) are modeled to improve detectability, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast harmonic imaging used for echo particle image velocimetry (Echo-PIV) technique. The wave motion in nonlinear material (tissue) is studied using KZK-type parabolic evolution equation. This model considers ultrasound beam diffraction, attenuation, and tissue nonlinearity. Time-domain numerical model is based on that originally developed by Lee and Hamilton [J. Acoust. Soc. Am 97:906-917 (1995)] for axi-symmetric acoustic field. The initial acoustic waveform emitted from the transducer is assumed to be a broadband wave modulated by Gaussian envelope. Scattering from microbubbles seeded in the blood stream is characterized. Hence, we compute the pressure field impinges the wall of a coated microbubble; the dynamics of oscillating microbubble can be modeled using Rayleigh-Plesset-type equation. Here, the continuity and the radial-momentum equation of encapsulated microbubbles are used to account for the lipid layer surrounding the microbubble. Numerical results show the effects of tissue and microbubble nonlinearities on the propagating pressure wave field. These nonlinearities have a strong influence on the waveform distortion and harmonic generation of the propagating and scattering waves. Results also show that microbubbles have stronger nonlinearity than tissue, and thus improves S/N ratio. These theoretical predictions of wave phenomena provide further understanding of biomedical imaging technique and provide better system design.

  16. Optic nerve sheath fenestration using a Raman-shifted alexandrite laser

    PubMed Central

    Kozub, John; Shen, Jin-H.; Joos, Karen M.; Prasad, Ratna; Hutson, M. Shane

    2016-01-01

    Background and Objective Optic nerve sheath fenestration is an established procedure for relief of potentially damaging overpressure on the optic nerve resulting from idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Prior work showed that a mid-IR free-electron laser could be delivered endoscopically and used to produce an effective fenestration. This study evaluates the efficacy of fenestration using a table-top mid-IR source based on a Raman-shifted alexandrite (RSA) laser. Study Design/Materials and Methods Porcine optic nerves were ablated using light from an RSA laser at wavelengths of 6.09, 6.27 and 6.43 μm and pulse energies up to 3 mJ using both free-space and endoscopic beam delivery through 250-μm I.D. hollow-glass waveguides. Waveguide transmission was characterized, ablation thresholds and etch rates were measured, and the efficacy of endoscopic fenestration was evaluated for ex vivo exposures using both optical coherence tomography and histological analysis. Results Using endoscopic delivery, the RSA laser can effectively fenestrate porcine optic nerves. Performance was optimized at a wavelength of 6.09 μm and delivered pulse energies of 0.5-0.8 mJ (requiring 1.5-2.5 mJ to be incident on the waveguide). Under these conditions, the ablation threshold fluence was 0.8 ± 0.2 J/cm2, the ablation rate was 1-4 μm/pulse, and the margins of ablation craters showed little evidence of thermal or mechanical damage. Nonetheless, nominally identical exposures yielded highly variable ablation rates. This led to fenestrations that ranged from too deep to too shallow – either damaging the underlying optic nerve or requiring additional exposure to cut fully through the sheath. Of 48 excised nerves subjected to fenestration at 6.09 μm, 16 ex vivo fenestrations were judged as good, 23 as too deep, and 9 as too shallow. Conclusions Mid-IR pulses from the RSA laser, propagated through a flexible hollow waveguide, are capable of cutting through porcine optic nerve sheaths in surgically relevant times with reasonable accuracy and low collateral damage. This can be accomplished at wavelengths of 6.09 or 6.27 μm, with 6.09 μm slightly preferred. The depth of ex vivo fenestrations was difficult to control, but excised nerves lack a sufficient layer of cerebrospinal fluid that would provide an additional margin of safety in actual patients. PMID:27020001

  17. High sensitivity in-situ analysis of light lithophile (Li, Be, B) and alkali (Rb, Cs) elements by laser ablation magnetic sector ICP-MS: application to back arc basin magmatism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kent, A. J.; Ungerer, C. A.

    2003-12-01

    Light lithophile (B, Be, Li) and alkali elements (Rb, Cs) provide many constraints on the origin and evolution of primitive magmatic rocks. However these elements are often present at low abundances, requiring large sample volumes, and may be strongly effected by alteration or sample contamination. We have developed a technique for rapid, in-situ, analysis of B, Be, Li, Rb and Cs abundances in glasses, glass inclusions and minerals using laser ablation microsampling and analysis by magnetic sector ICP-MS. By coupling the high sensitivity, dynamic range and low backgrounds of the ICP-MS with the speed and minimal sample preparation requirements of laser ablation, we can analyze these elements with detection limits that rival many solution-based techniques in ~60 s and using << 200 ng of material. Analyses are conducted using a NewWave DUV 193 nm ArF Excimer laser system, with He carrier gas. Samples were ablated at energies of 10-12 mJ/cm2 with pulse rates between 2-5 hz, and by either translating a 50 μ m laser spot over the surface at a rate of 5 μ m/s or by maintaining a stationary 50-70 μ m spot. Ablated material was analyzed with a VG Axiom single collector ICP-MS using a high-sensitivity sampler cone. All peaks were checked at high mass resolving power for molecular interferences, and analyses were conducted at low resolving power to maximize transmission. Careful monitoring of backgrounds was required for low-abundance measurements. Calculated detection limits are 1-2 ppb (Cs, Be), 5-10 ppb (Li) and 15-20 ppb (B, Rb). Surface contamination was removed with a pre-analysis ablation pass, and the small size of the laser spot allowed us to avoid altered and devitrified areas. Analysis of standard glasses showed excellent agreement with accepted values and repeat analyses suggest external errors are typically < 5-10%. Glasses from the Lau Basin show strong enrichments in B, Rb and Cs that correlate with a slab-fluid signature. B, Be Rb and Cs contents are very low in MORB-like samples from the north of the basin but are enriched in evolved lavas from propagating ridge tips.

  18. Analysis of Nozzle Jet Plume Effects on Sonic Boom Signature

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bui, Trong

    2010-01-01

    An axisymmetric full Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study was conducted to examine nozzle exhaust jet plume effects on the sonic boom signature of a supersonic aircraft. A simplified axisymmetric nozzle geometry, representative of the nozzle on the NASA Dryden NF-15B Lift and Nozzle Change Effects on Tail Shock (LaNCETS) research airplane, was considered. The highly underexpanded nozzle flow is found to provide significantly more reduction in the tail shock strength in the sonic boom N-wave pressure signature than perfectly expanded and overexpanded nozzle flows. A tail shock train in the sonic boom signature, similar to what was observed in the LaNCETS flight data, is observed for the highly underexpanded nozzle flow. The CFD results provide a detailed description of the nozzle flow physics involved in the LaNCETS nozzle at different nozzle expansion conditions and help in interpreting LaNCETS flight data as well as in the eventual CFD analysis of a full LaNCETS aircraft. The current study also provided important information on proper modeling of the LaNCETS aircraft nozzle. The primary objective of the current CFD research effort was to support the LaNCETS flight research data analysis effort by studying the detailed nozzle exhaust jet plume s imperfect expansion effects on the sonic boom signature of a supersonic aircraft. Figure 1 illustrates the primary flow physics present in the interaction between the exhaust jet plume shock and the sonic boom coming off of an axisymmetric body in supersonic flight. The steeper tail shock from highly expanded jet plume reduces the dip of the sonic boom N-wave signature. A structured finite-volume compressible full Navier-Stokes CFD code was used in the current study. This approach is not limited by the simplifying assumptions inherent in previous sonic boom analysis efforts. Also, this study was the first known jet plume sonic boom CFD study in which the full viscous nozzle flow field was modeled, without coupling to a sonic boom propagation analysis code, from the stagnation chamber of the nozzle to the far field external flow, taking into account all nonisentropic effects in the shocks, boundary layers, and free shear layers, and their interactions at distances up to 30 times the nozzle exit diameter from the jet centerline. A CFD solution is shown in Figure 2. The flow field is very complicated and multi-dimensional, with shock-shock and shockplume interactions. At the time of this reporting, a full three-dimensional CFD study was being conducted to evaluate the effects of nozzle vectoring on the aircraft tail shock strength.

  19. Directed energy missions for planetary defense

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lubin, Philip; Hughes, Gary B.; Eskenazi, Mike; Kosmo, Kelly; Johansson, Isabella E.; Griswold, Janelle; Pryor, Mark; O'Neill, Hugh; Meinhold, Peter; Suen, Jonathan; Riley, Jordan; Zhang, Qicheng; Walsh, Kevin; Melis, Carl; Kangas, Miikka; Motta, Caio; Brashears, Travis

    2016-09-01

    Directed energy for planetary defense is now a viable option and is superior in many ways to other proposed technologies, being able to defend the Earth against all known threats. This paper presents basic ideas behind a directed energy planetary defense system that utilizes laser ablation of an asteroid to impart a deflecting force on the target. A conceptual philosophy called DE-STAR, which stands for Directed Energy System for Targeting of Asteroids and exploration, is an orbiting stand-off system, which has been described in other papers. This paper describes a smaller, stand-on system known as DE-STARLITE as a reduced-scale version of DE-STAR. Both share the same basic heritage of a directed energy array that heats the surface of the target to the point of high surface vapor pressure that causes significant mass ejection thus forming an ejection plume of material from the target that acts as a rocket to deflect the object. This is generally classified as laser ablation. DE-STARLITE uses conventional propellant for launch to LEO and then ion engines to propel the spacecraft from LEO to the near-Earth asteroid (NEA). During laser ablation, the asteroid itself provides the propellant source material; thus a very modest spacecraft can deflect an asteroid much larger than would be possible with a system of similar mission mass using ion beam deflection (IBD) or a gravity tractor. DE-STARLITE is capable of deflecting an Apophis-class (325 m diameter) asteroid with a 1- to 15-year targeting time (laser on time) depending on the system design. The mission fits within the rough mission parameters of the Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARM) program in terms of mass and size. DE-STARLITE also has much greater capability for planetary defense than current proposals and is readily scalable to match the threat. It can deflect all known threats with sufficient warning.

  20. Synthesis of Ag-doped TiO2 nanoparticles by combining laser decomposition of titanium isopropoxide and ablation of Ag for dye-sensitized solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Al-Kamal, Ahmed Kamal

    Nanostructured powders of TiO2 and Ag-doped TiO2 are synthesized by a novel pulsed-laser process that combines laser ablation of a silver (Ag) disc with laser decomposition of a titanium tetra-isopropoxide (TTIP) solution. Nanoparticles are formed by rapid condensation of vaporized species in the plasma plume generated by the high power laser, resulting in the formation of rapidly quenched Ag-doped TiO2 nanoparticles that have far-from-equilibrium or metastable structures. The uniqueness of the new ablation process is that it is a one-step process, in contrast to the two-step process developed by previous researchers in the field. Moreover, its ability to synthesize an extended-solid solution phase of Ag in TiO 2 may also be unique. The present work implies that other oxide phases, such as Al2O3, MgO and MgAl2O4, can be doped with normally insoluble metals, such as Pt and Ir, thus opening new opportunities for catalytic applications. Again, there is the prospect of being able to synthesize nanopowders of diamond, c-BN, and mixtures thereof, which are of interest for applications in machine tools, rock-drill bits, and lightweight armor. A wet-chemistry method is also investigated, which has much in common with that adopted by previous workers in the field. However, photo-voltaic properties do not measure up to expectations based on published data. A possible explanation is that the selected Ag concentrations are too high, so that recombination of holes and electrons occurs via a quantum-tunneling mechanism reduces photo-activity. Future work, therefore, will investigate lower concentrations of Ag dopant in TiO2, while also examining the effects of metastable states, including extended solid solution, amorphous, and semi-crystalline structures.

  1. Optical emission and nanoparticle generation in Al plasmas using ultrashort laser pulses temporally optimized by real-time spectroscopic feedback

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Guillermin, M.; Colombier, J. P.; Audouard, E.

    2010-07-15

    With an interest in pulsed laser deposition and remote spectroscopy techniques, we explore here the potential of laser pulses temporally tailored on ultrafast time scales to control the expansion and the excitation degree of various ablation products including atomic species and nanoparticulates. Taking advantage of automated pulse-shaping techniques, an adaptive procedure based on spectroscopic feedback is applied to regulate the irradiance and enhance the optical emission of monocharged aluminum ions with respect to the neutral signal. This leads to optimized pulses usually consisting in a series of femtosecond peaks distributed on a longer picosecond sequence. The ablation features induced bymore » the optimized pulse are compared with those determined by picosecond pulses generated by imposed second-order dispersion or by double pulse sequences with adjustable picosecond separation. This allows to analyze the influence of fast- and slow-varying envelope features on the material heating and the resulting plasma excitation degree. Using various optimal pulse forms including designed asymmetric shapes, we analyze the establishment of surface pre-excitation that enables conditions of enhanced radiation coupling. Thin films elaborated by unshaped femtosecond laser pulses and by optimized, stretched, or double pulse sequences are compared, indicating that the nanoparticles generation efficiency is strongly influenced by the temporal shaping of the laser irradiation. A thermodynamic scenario involving supercritical heating is proposed to explain enhanced ionization rates and lower particulates density for optimal pulses. Numerical one-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations for the excited matter support the interpretation of the experimental results in terms of relative efficiency of various relaxation paths for excited matter above or below the thermodynamic stability limits. The calculation results underline the role of the temperature and density gradients along the ablated plasma plume which lead to the spatial distinct locations of excited species. Moreover, the nanoparticles sizes are computed based on liquid layer ejection followed by a Rayleigh and Taylor instability decomposition, in good agreement with the experimental findings.« less

  2. Production of Prebiotic Molecule Precursors from Hypervelocity Impact Simulation Experiments on Carbonate Sediments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farcy, B. J.; Grubisic, A.; Li, X.; Pinnick, V. T.; Sutton, M.; Pavlov, A.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.

    2017-12-01

    Organic molecules, including amino acids and other biotic precursors, have been shown to form in the cooling and expanding plasma plume generated from hypervelocity impacts through the processes of atomization, ionization, and molecular recombination of impactor and impact surface. Various sources of carbon, such as atmospheric methane and carbonaceous material from meteorites, are known to yield cyano-bearing molecules and simple amino acids from impact plasmas. However, the role of mineralogical carbon has not yet been investigated in this process. We have performed experiments using laser ablation mass spectrometry (LA-MS) to study the negative ion yield of plasma-produced prebiotic molecules. A mixture of 10% NH4Cl and 90% CaCO3 was pressed into a pellet and ablated with a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, and the resultant negative ions were measured by a plasma analyzer quadrupole MS. Mass spectra show characteristic peaks at m/z = 26 and m/z = 42, indicating the presence of CN- and CNO- ions. When isotopically labeled 15NH4Cl and Ca13CO3 were used in the sample ablation pellet, the purported CN- and CNO- peaks shifted according to their added isotopic mass. Indeed, comparison of resulting ion formation from momentum-based techniques, such as massive cluster secondary ion mass spectrometry, show comparable fragmentation and recombination of CN- and CNO- ions. These findings show that CN- ions, as well as CN radicals and thus HCN, can be formed during meteoritic bombardment of carbonate minerals. During the late heavy bombardment of the earth from 4.1-3.8 Ga, impact-driven chemistry could have played a dominant role in shaping the earth's early prebiotic inventory and sources of chemical energy. As carbonate sediments are common in the Archean, carbonate deposits are most likely an important contributor of carbon for this process, along with atmospheric and meteoritic carbon sources.

  3. Photo-ionization and modification of nanoparticles on transparent substrates by ultrashort laser pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gruzdev, Vitaly; Komolov, Vladimir; Li, Hao; Yu, Qingsong; Przhibel'skii, Sergey; Smirnov, Dmitry

    2011-02-01

    The objective of this combined experimental and theoretical research is to study the dynamics and mechanisms of nanoparticle interaction with ultrashort laser pulses and related modifications of substrate surface. For the experimental effort, metal (gold), dielectric (SiO2) and dielectric with metal coating (about 30 nm thick) spherical nanoparticles deposited on glass substrate are utilized. Size of the particles varies from 20 to 200 nm. Density of the particles varies from low (mean inter-particle distance 100 nm) to high (mean inter-particle distance less than 1 nm). The nanoparticle assemblies and the corresponding empty substrate surfaces are irradiated with single 130-fs laser pulses at wavelength 775 nm and different levels of laser fluence. Large diameter of laser spot (0.5-2 mm) provides gradient variations of laser intensity over the spot and allows observing different laser-nanoparticle interactions. The interactions vary from total removal of the nanoparticles in the center of laser spot to gentle modification of their size and shape and totally non-destructive interaction. The removed particles frequently form specific sub-micrometer-size pits on the substrate surface at their locations. The experimental effort is supported by simulations of the nanoparticle interactions with high-intensity ultrashort laser pulse. The simulation employs specific modification of the molecular dynamics approach applied to model the processes of non-thermal particle ablation following laser-induced electron emission. This technique delivers various characteristics of the ablation plume from a single nanoparticle including energy and speed distribution of emitted ions, variations of particle size and overall dynamics of its ablation. The considered geometry includes single isolated particle as well a single particle on a flat substrate that corresponds to the experimental conditions. The simulations confirm existence of the different regimes of laser-nanoparticle interactions depending on laser intensity and wavelength. In particular, implantation of ions departing from the nanoparticles towards the substrate is predicted.

  4. Detection and identification of amino acids in Ficoll solutions with femtosecond laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Markushin, Y.; Sivakumar, P.; Melikechi, N.; Boukari, H.

    2018-02-01

    We report femtosecond Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (fs-LIBS) measurements on several amino acids (Serine, Glutamine, and Cysteine) and Albumin protein solutions mixed with Ficoll polysaccharide at different proportions. The goal is to assess the effects of a host matrix on the identification and spectral characterization of amino acids by fs-LIBS. fs-LIBS utilizes an intense short laser pulse to obliterate a sample into basic constituents and to record the emission spectrum of atoms, ions, and molecules in the cooling down of the plasma plume. Several spectral peaks associated primarily with elemental composition of a sample were observed in the fs-LIBS spectra in a range from 200 to 950 nm. In addition, some molecular information associated with diatomic vibrational modes in certain molecules such as C-C and C-N were also obtained. The presence of Ficoll affects the relative intensity and broadening of the CN band, which could be considered as signatures of the amino acids. The fs-LIBS data and their analysis compare favorably with those derived from Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Interpretation of the spectral information enclosed in the emission of the diatomic molecules during laser ablation may lead to a better understanding of plume chemistry with a direct consequence on chemical analysis of complex samples such as amino acids. Altogether, the results demonstrate the potential of fs-LIBS technique as a detection method of biomolecules and for probing interactions of these biomolecules with a host matrix.

  5. Introduction: energy and the subsurface.

    PubMed

    Christov, Ivan C; Viswanathan, Hari S

    2016-10-13

    This theme issue covers topics at the forefront of scientific research on energy and the subsurface, ranging from carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration to the recovery of unconventional shale oil and gas resources through hydraulic fracturing. As such, the goal of this theme issue is to have an impact on the scientific community, broadly, by providing a self-contained collection of articles contributing to and reviewing the state-of-the-art of the field. This collection of articles could be used, for example, to set the next generation of research directions, while also being useful as a self-study guide for those interested in entering the field. Review articles are included on the topics of hydraulic fracturing as a multiscale problem, numerical modelling of hydraulic fracture propagation, the role of computational sciences in the upstream oil and gas industry and chemohydrodynamic patterns in porous media. Complementing the reviews is a set of original research papers covering growth models for branched hydraulic crack systems, fluid-driven crack propagation in elastic matrices, elastic and inelastic deformation of fluid-saturated rock, reaction front propagation in fracture matrices, the effects of rock mineralogy and pore structure on stress-dependent permeability of shales, topographic viscous fingering and plume dynamics in porous media convection.This article is part of the themed issue 'Energy and the subsurface'. © 2016 The Author(s).

  6. Validation of High-Fidelity CFD/CAA Framework for Launch Vehicle Acoustic Environment Simulation against Scale Model Test Data

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Liever, Peter A.; West, Jeffrey S.; Harris, Robert E.

    2016-01-01

    A hybrid Computational Fluid Dynamics and Computational Aero-Acoustics (CFD/CAA) modeling framework has been developed for launch vehicle liftoff acoustic environment predictions. The framework couples the existing highly-scalable NASA production CFD code, Loci/CHEM, with a high-order accurate Discontinuous Galerkin solver developed in the same production framework, Loci/THRUST, to accurately resolve and propagate acoustic physics across the entire launch environment. Time-accurate, Hybrid RANS/LES CFD modeling is applied for predicting the acoustic generation physics at the plume source, and a high-order accurate unstructured mesh Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method is employed to propagate acoustic waves away from the source across large distances using high-order accurate schemes. The DG solver is capable of solving 2nd, 3rd, and 4th order Euler solutions for non-linear, conservative acoustic field propagation. Initial application testing and validation has been carried out against high resolution acoustic data from the Ares Scale Model Acoustic Test (ASMAT) series to evaluate the capabilities and production readiness of the CFD/CAA system to resolve the observed spectrum of acoustic frequency content. This paper presents results from this validation and outlines efforts to mature and improve the computational simulation framework.

  7. Introduction: energy and the subsurface

    PubMed Central

    Viswanathan, Hari S.

    2016-01-01

    This theme issue covers topics at the forefront of scientific research on energy and the subsurface, ranging from carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration to the recovery of unconventional shale oil and gas resources through hydraulic fracturing. As such, the goal of this theme issue is to have an impact on the scientific community, broadly, by providing a self-contained collection of articles contributing to and reviewing the state-of-the-art of the field. This collection of articles could be used, for example, to set the next generation of research directions, while also being useful as a self-study guide for those interested in entering the field. Review articles are included on the topics of hydraulic fracturing as a multiscale problem, numerical modelling of hydraulic fracture propagation, the role of computational sciences in the upstream oil and gas industry and chemohydrodynamic patterns in porous media. Complementing the reviews is a set of original research papers covering growth models for branched hydraulic crack systems, fluid-driven crack propagation in elastic matrices, elastic and inelastic deformation of fluid-saturated rock, reaction front propagation in fracture matrices, the effects of rock mineralogy and pore structure on stress-dependent permeability of shales, topographic viscous fingering and plume dynamics in porous media convection. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Energy and the subsurface’. PMID:27597784

  8. Radiative shocks produced from spherical cryogenic implosions at the National Ignition Facility

    DOE PAGES

    Pak, A.; Divol, L.; Gregori, G.; ...

    2013-05-20

    Spherically expanding radiative shock waves have been observed from inertially confined implosion experiments at the National Ignition Facility. In these experiments, a spherical fusion target, initially 2 mm in diameter, is compressed via the pressure induced from the ablation of the outer target surface. At the peak compression of the capsule, x-ray and nuclear diagnostics indicate the formation of a central core, with a radius and ion temperature of ~20 μm and ~ 2 keV, respectively. This central core is surrounded by a cooler compressed shell of deuterium-tritium fuel that has an outer radius of ~40 μm and a densitymore » of >500 g/cm 3. Using inputs from multiple diagnostics, the peak pressure of the compressed core has been inferred to be of order 100 Gbar for the implosions discussed here. Furthermore, the shock front, initially located at the interface between the high pressure compressed fuel shell and surrounding in-falling low pressure ablator plasma, begins to propagate outwards after peak compression has been reached.« less

  9. Use of microgravity sensors for quantification of space shuttle orbiter vernier reaction control system induced environments

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Friend, Robert B.

    1998-01-01

    In the modeling of spacecraft dynamics it is important to accurately characterize the environment in which the vehicle operates, including the environments induced by the vehicle itself. On the Space Shuttle these induced environmental factors include reaction control system plume. Knowledge of these environments is necessary for performance of control systems and loads analyses, estimation of disturbances due to thruster firings, and accurate state vector propagation. During the STS-71 mission, while the Orbiter was performing attitude control for the mated Orbiter/Mir stack, it was noted that the autopilot was limit cycling at a rate higher than expected from pre-flight simulations. Investigations during the mission resulted in the conjecture that an unmodelled plume impingement force was acting upon the orbiter elevons. The in-flight investigations were not successful in determining the actual magnitude of the impingement, resulting in several sequential post-flight investigations. Efforts performed to better quantify the vernier reaction control system induced plume impingement environment of the Space Shuttle orbiter are described in this paper, and background detailing circumstances which required the more detailed knowledge of the RCS self impingement forces, as well as a description of the resulting investigations and their results is presented. The investigations described in this paper applied microgravity acceleration data from two shuttle borne microgravity experiments, SAMS and OARE, to the solution of this particular problem. This solution, now used by shuttle analysts and mission planners, results in more accurate propellant consumption and attitude limit cycle estimates in preflight analyses, which are critical for pending International Space Station missions.

  10. A case study of the Weather Research and Forecasting model applied to the Joint Urban 2003 tracer field experiment. Part 2: Gas tracer dispersion

    DOE PAGES

    Nelson, Matthew A.; Brown, Michael J.; Halverson, Scot A.; ...

    2016-07-28

    Here, the Quick Urban & Industrial Complex (QUIC) atmospheric transport, and dispersion modelling, system was evaluated against the Joint Urban 2003 tracer-gas measurements. This was done using the wind and turbulence fields computed by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. We compare the simulated and observed plume transport when using WRF-model-simulated wind fields, and local on-site wind measurements. Degradation of the WRF-model-based plume simulations was cased by errors in the simulated wind direction, and limitations in reproducing the small-scale wind-field variability. We explore two methods for importing turbulence from the WRF model simulations into the QUIC system. The firstmore » method uses parametrized turbulence profiles computed from WRF-model-computed boundary-layer similarity parameters; and the second method directly imports turbulent kinetic energy from the WRF model. Using the WRF model’s Mellor-Yamada-Janjic boundary-layer scheme, the parametrized turbulence profiles and the direct import of turbulent kinetic energy were found to overpredict and underpredict the observed turbulence quantities, respectively. Near-source building effects were found to propagate several km downwind. These building effects and the temporal/spatial variations in the observed wind field were often found to have a stronger influence over the lateral and vertical plume spread than the intensity of turbulence. Correcting the WRF model wind directions using a single observational location improved the performance of the WRF-model-based simulations, but using the spatially-varying flow fields generated from multiple observation profiles generally provided the best performance.« less

  11. A case study of the Weather Research and Forecasting model applied to the Joint Urban 2003 tracer field experiment. Part 2: Gas tracer dispersion

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nelson, Matthew A.; Brown, Michael J.; Halverson, Scot A.

    Here, the Quick Urban & Industrial Complex (QUIC) atmospheric transport, and dispersion modelling, system was evaluated against the Joint Urban 2003 tracer-gas measurements. This was done using the wind and turbulence fields computed by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. We compare the simulated and observed plume transport when using WRF-model-simulated wind fields, and local on-site wind measurements. Degradation of the WRF-model-based plume simulations was cased by errors in the simulated wind direction, and limitations in reproducing the small-scale wind-field variability. We explore two methods for importing turbulence from the WRF model simulations into the QUIC system. The firstmore » method uses parametrized turbulence profiles computed from WRF-model-computed boundary-layer similarity parameters; and the second method directly imports turbulent kinetic energy from the WRF model. Using the WRF model’s Mellor-Yamada-Janjic boundary-layer scheme, the parametrized turbulence profiles and the direct import of turbulent kinetic energy were found to overpredict and underpredict the observed turbulence quantities, respectively. Near-source building effects were found to propagate several km downwind. These building effects and the temporal/spatial variations in the observed wind field were often found to have a stronger influence over the lateral and vertical plume spread than the intensity of turbulence. Correcting the WRF model wind directions using a single observational location improved the performance of the WRF-model-based simulations, but using the spatially-varying flow fields generated from multiple observation profiles generally provided the best performance.« less

  12. On the dynamics of the Mouth of the Columbia River: Results from a three-dimensional fully coupled wave-current interaction model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akan, Çiǧdem; Moghimi, Saeed; Özkan-Haller, H. Tuba; Osborne, John; Kurapov, Alexander

    2017-07-01

    Numerical simulations were performed using a 3-D ocean circulation model (ROMS) two-way coupled to a phase-averaged wave propagation model (SWAN), to expand our understanding of the dynamics of wave-current interactions at the Mouth of the Columbia River (MCR). First, model results are compared with water elevations, currents, temperature, salinity, and wave measurements obtained by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers during the Mega-Transect Experiment in 2005. We then discuss the effects of the currents on the waves and vice versa. Results show that wave heights are intensified notably at the entrance of the mouth in the presence of the tidal currents, especially in ebb flows. We also find nonlocal modifications to the wave field because of wave focusing processes that redirect wave energy toward the inlet mouth from adjacent areas, resulting in the presence of a tidal signatures in areas where local currents are weak. The model also suggests significant wave amplification at the edge of the expanding plume in the later stages of ebb, some tens of kilometers offshore of the inlet mouth, with potential implications for navigation safety. The effect of waves on the location of the plume is also analyzed, and results suggest that the plume is shifted in the down-wave direction when wave effects are considered, and that this shift is more pronounced for larger waves, and consistent with the presence of alongshore advection terms in the salt advection equation, which are related to the Stokes velocities associated with waves.

  13. Quantification of Plume-Soil Interaction and Excavation Due to the Sky Crane Descent Stage

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vizcaino, Jeffrey; Mehta, Manish

    2015-01-01

    The quantification of the particulate erosion that occurs as a result of a rocket exhaust plume impinging on soil during extraterrestrial landings is critical for future robotic and human lander mission design. The aerodynamic environment that results from the reflected plumes results in dust lifting, site alteration and saltation, all of which create a potentially erosive and contaminant heavy environment for the lander vehicle and any surrounding structures. The Mars Science Lab (MSL), weighing nearly one metric ton, required higher levels of thrust from its retro propulsive systems and an entirely new descent system to minimize these effects. In this work we seek to quantify plume soil interaction and its resultant soil erosion caused by the MSL's Sky Crane descent stage engines by performing three dimensional digital terrain and elevation mapping of the Curiosity rover's landing site. Analysis of plume soil interaction altitude and time was performed by detailed examination of the Mars Descent Imager (MARDI) still frames and reconstructed inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor data. Results show initial plume soil interaction from the Sky Crane's eight engines began at ground elevations greater than 60 meters and more than 25 seconds before the rovers' touchdown event. During this time, viscous shear erosion (VSE) was dominant typically resulting in dusting of the surface with flow propagating nearly parallel to the surface. As the vehicle descended and decreased to four powered engines plume-plume and plume soil interaction increased the overall erosion rate at the surface. Visibility was greatly reduced at a height of roughly 20 meters above the surface and fell to zero ground visibility shortly after. The deployment phase of the Sky Crane descent stage hovering at nearly six meters above the surface showed the greatest amount of erosion with several large particles of soil being kicked up, recirculated, and impacting the bottom of the rover chassis. Image data obtained from MSL's navigation camera (NAVCAM) pairs on Sols 002, 003, and 016 were used to virtually recreate local surface topography and features around the rover by means of stereoscopic depth mapping. Images taken simultaneously by the left and right navigation cameras located on the rover's mast assembly spaced 42 centimeters were used to generate a three dimensional depth map from flat, two dimensional images of the same feature at slightly different angles. Image calibration with physical hardware on the rover and known terrain features were used to provide scaling information that accurately sizes features and regions of interest within the images. Digital terrain mapping analysis performed in this work describe the crater geometry (shape, radius, and depth), eroded volume, volumetric erosion rate, and estimated mass erosion rate of the Hepburn, Sleepy Dragon, Burnside, and Goulburn craters. Crater depths ranged from five to ten centimeters deep influencing an area as wide as two meters in some cases. The craters formed were highly asymmetrical and generally oblong primarily due to the underlying bedrock formations underneath the surface. Comparison with ground tests performed at the NASA AMES Planetary Aeolian Laboratory (PAL) by Mehta showed good agreement with volumetric erosion rates and crater sizes of large particle soil simulants, providing validation to Earth based ground tests of Martian regolith.

  14. HIFU procedures at moderate intensities--effect of large blood vessels.

    PubMed

    Hariharan, P; Myers, M R; Banerjee, R K

    2007-06-21

    A three-dimensional computational model is presented for studying the efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) procedures targeted near large blood vessels. The analysis applies to procedures performed at intensities below the threshold for cavitation, boiling and highly nonlinear propagation, but high enough to increase tissue temperature a few degrees per second. The model is based upon the linearized KZK equation and the bioheat equation in tissue. In the blood vessel the momentum and energy equations are satisfied. The model is first validated in a tissue phantom, to verify the absence of bubble formation and nonlinear effects. Temperature rise and lesion-volume calculations are then shown for different beam locations and orientations relative to a large vessel. Both single and multiple ablations are considered. Results show that when the vessel is located within about a beam width (few mm) of the ultrasound beam, significant reduction in lesion volume is observed due to blood flow. However, for gaps larger than a beam width, blood flow has no major effect on the lesion formation. Under the clinically representative conditions considered, the lesion volume is reduced about 40% (relative to the no-flow case) when the beam is parallel to the blood vessel, compared to about 20% for a perpendicular orientation. Procedures involving multiple ablation sites are affected less by blood flow than single ablations. The model also suggests that optimally focused transducers can generate lesions that are significantly larger (>2 times) than the ones produced by highly focused beams.

  15. HIFU procedures at moderate intensities—effect of large blood vessels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hariharan, P.; Myers, M. R.; Banerjee, R. K.

    2007-07-01

    A three-dimensional computational model is presented for studying the efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) procedures targeted near large blood vessels. The analysis applies to procedures performed at intensities below the threshold for cavitation, boiling and highly nonlinear propagation, but high enough to increase tissue temperature a few degrees per second. The model is based upon the linearized KZK equation and the bioheat equation in tissue. In the blood vessel the momentum and energy equations are satisfied. The model is first validated in a tissue phantom, to verify the absence of bubble formation and nonlinear effects. Temperature rise and lesion-volume calculations are then shown for different beam locations and orientations relative to a large vessel. Both single and multiple ablations are considered. Results show that when the vessel is located within about a beam width (few mm) of the ultrasound beam, significant reduction in lesion volume is observed due to blood flow. However, for gaps larger than a beam width, blood flow has no major effect on the lesion formation. Under the clinically representative conditions considered, the lesion volume is reduced about 40% (relative to the no-flow case) when the beam is parallel to the blood vessel, compared to about 20% for a perpendicular orientation. Procedures involving multiple ablation sites are affected less by blood flow than single ablations. The model also suggests that optimally focused transducers can generate lesions that are significantly larger (>2 times) than the ones produced by highly focused beams.

  16. Microwave Treatment for Cardiac Arrhythmias

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hernandez-Moya, Sonia

    2009-01-01

    NASA seeks to transfer the NASA developed microwave ablation technology, designed for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia (irregular heart beat), to industry. After a heart attack, many cells surrounding the resulting scar continue to live but are abnormal electrically; they may conduct impulses unusually slowly or fire when they would typically be silent. These diseased areas might disturb smooth signaling by forming a reentrant circuit in the muscle. The objective of microwave ablation is to heat and kill these diseased cells to restore appropriate electrical activity in the heart. This technology is a method and apparatus that provides for propagating microwave energy into heart tissues to produce a desired temperature profile therein at tissue depths sufficient for thermally ablating arrhythmogenic cardiac tissue while preventing excessive heating of surrounding tissues, organs, and blood. A wide bandwidth double-disk antenna is effective for this purpose over a bandwidth of about six gigahertz. A computer simulation provides initial screening capabilities for an antenna such as antenna, frequency, power level, and power application duration. The simulation also allows optimization of techniques for specific patients or conditions. In comparison with other methods that involve direct-current pulses or radio frequencies below 1 GHz, this method may prove more effective in treating ventricular tachycardia. This is because the present method provides for greater control of the location, cross-sectional area, and depth of a lesion via selection of the location and design of the antenna and the choice of microwave power and frequency.

  17. Three Dimensional Hybrid Simulations of Super-Alfvénic Laser Ablation Experiments in the Large Plasma Device

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clark, Stephen; Winske, Dan; Schaeffer, Derek; Everson, Erik; Bondarenko, Anton; Constantin, Carmen; Niemann, Christoph

    2014-10-01

    We present 3D hybrid simulations of laser produced expanding debris clouds propagating though a magnetized ambient plasma in the context of magnetized collisionless shocks. New results from the 3D code are compared to previously obtained simulation results using a 2D hybrid code. The 3D code is an extension of a previously developed 2D code developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory. It has been parallelized and ported to execute on a cluster environment. The new simulations are used to verify scaling relationships, such as shock onset time and coupling parameter (Rm /ρd), developed via 2D simulations. Previous 2D results focus primarily on laboratory shock formation relevant to experiments being performed on the Large Plasma Device, where the shock propagates across the magnetic field. The new 3D simulations show wave structure and dynamics oblique to the magnetic field that introduce new physics to be considered in future experiments.

  18. Lobe-cleft instability in the buoyant gravity current generated by estuarine outflow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horner-Devine, Alexander R.; Chickadel, C. Chris

    2017-05-01

    Gravity currents represent a broad class of geophysical flows including turbidity currents, powder avalanches, pyroclastic flows, sea breeze fronts, haboobs, and river plumes. A defining feature in many gravity currents is the formation of three-dimensional lobes and clefts along the front and researchers have sought to understand these ubiquitous geophysical structures for decades. The prevailing explanation is based largely on early laboratory and numerical model experiments at much smaller scales, which concluded that lobes and clefts are generated due to hydrostatic instability exclusively in currents propagating over a nonslip boundary. Recent studies suggest that frontal dynamics change as the flow scale increases, but no measurements have been made that sufficiently resolve the flow structure in full-scale geophysical flows. Here we use thermal infrared and acoustic imaging of a river plume to reveal the three-dimensional structure of lobes and clefts formed in a geophysical gravity current front. The observed lobes and clefts are generated at the front in the absence of a nonslip boundary, contradicting the prevailing explanation. The observed flow structure is consistent with an alternative formation mechanism, which predicts that the lobe scale is inherited from subsurface vortex structures.

  19. 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene in soil and groundwater under a waste lagoon at the former Explosives Factory Maribyrnong (EFM), Victoria, Australia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martel, Richard; Robertson, Timothy James; Doan, Minh Quan; Thiboutot, Sonia; Ampleman, Guy; Provatas, Arthur; Jenkins, Thomas

    2008-01-01

    Energetic materials contamination was investigated at the former Explosives Factory Maribyrnong, Victoria, Australia. Spectrophotometric/high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was utilised to delineate a 5 tonne crystalline 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) source in a former process waste lagoon that was found to be supplying contaminant leachate to the surficial clay aquitard with a maximum-recorded concentration of 7.0 ppm TNT. Groundwater within underlying sand and gravel aquifers was found to be uncontaminated due to upward hydraulic gradients resulting in slow plume development and propagation. Adsorption and microcosm test results from a parallel study were used as input parameters to simulate aqueous TNT transport in the clay aquitard using ATRANS20 software. The simulated TNT plume was localised within a few metres of the source, and at steady state, though leaching rate calculations suggest that without mitigation or other changes to the system, persistence of the source would be approximately 2,000 years. Remediation strategies may involve removal of the near surface source zone and infilling with an impermeable capping to impede leaching while facilitating ongoing natural attenuation by anaerobic degradation.

  20. The Robustness of Tomographically Imaged Broad Plumes in the Deep Mantle: Constraints on Mantle Dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Romanowicz, B. A.; Jiménez-Pérez, H.; Adourian, S.; Karaoglu, H.; French, S.

    2016-12-01

    Existing global 3D shear wave velocity models of the earth's mantle generally rely on simple ray theoretical assumptions regarding seismic wave propagation through a heterogeneous medium, and/or consider a limited number of seismic observables, such as surface wave dispersion and/or travel times of body waves (such as P or S) that are well separated on seismograms. While these assumptions are appropriate for resolving long wavelength structure, as evidenced from the good agreement at low degrees between models published in the last 10 years, it is well established that the assumption of ray theory limits the resolution of smaller scale low velocity structures. We recently developed a global radially anisotropic shear wave velocity model (SEMUCB_WM1, French and Romanowicz, 2014, 2015) based on time domain full waveform inversion of 3-component seismograms, including surface waves and overtones down to 60s period, as well as body waveforms down to 30s. At each iteration, the forward wavefield is calculated using the Spectral Element Method (SEM), which ensures the accurate computation of the misfit function. Inversion is performed using a fast converging Gauss-Newton formalism. The use of information from the entire seismogram, weighted according to energy arrivals, provides a unique illumination of the deep mantle, compensating for the uneven distribution of sources and stations. The most striking features of this model are the broad, vertically oriented plume-like conduits that extend from the core-mantle boundary to at least 1000 km depth in the vicinity of some 20 major hotspots located over the large low shear velocity provinces under the Pacific and Africa. We here present the results of various tests aimed at evaluating the robustness of these features. These include starting from a different initial model, to evaluate the effects of non-linearity in the inversion, as well as synthetic tests aimed at evaluating the recovery of plumes located in the middle of the Pacific ocean. We argue that the plumes can be better resolved than in models developed using classical approaches, due to the particular combination of theory and dataset. We discuss the geodynamical consequences of their attributes, which contrast with those of purely thermal plumes in a medium with simple temperature and pressure dependent rheology.

  1. Corneal Stability following Hyperopic LASIK with Advanced Laser Ablation Profiles Analyzed by a Light Propagation Study

    PubMed Central

    Gharaibeh, Almutez M.; Villanueva, Asier; Mas, David; Espinosa, Julian

    2018-01-01

    Purpose To assess anterior corneal surface stability 12 months following hyperopic LASIK correction with a light propagation algorithm. Setting Vissum Instituto Oftalmológico de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain. Methods This retrospective consecutive observational study includes 37 eyes of 37 patients treated with 6th-generation excimer laser platform (Schwind Amaris). Hyperopic LASIK was performed in all of them by the same surgeon (JLA) and completed 12-month follow-up. Corneal topography was analyzed with a light propagation algorithm, to assess the stability of the corneal outcomes along one year of follow-up. Results Between three and twelve months postoperatively, an objective corneal power (OCP) regression of 0.39 D and 0.41 D was found for 6 mm and 9 mm central corneal zone, respectively. Subjective outcomes at the end of the follow-up period were as follows: 65% of eyes had spherical equivalent within ±0.50 D. 70% of eyes had an uncorrected distance visual acuity 20/20 or better. 86% of eyes had the same or better corrected distance visual acuity. In terms of stability, 0.14 D of regression was found. No statistically significant differences were found for all the study parameters evaluated at different postoperative moments over the 12-month period. Conclusions Light propagation analysis confirms corneal surface stability following modern hyperopic LASIK with a 6th-generation excimer laser technology over a 12-month period. PMID:29785300

  2. Nonlinear effects in the radiation force generated by amplitude-modulated focused beams

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    González, Nuria; Jiménez, Noé; Redondo, Javier; Roig, Bernardino; Picó, Rubén; Sánchez-Morcillo, Víctor; Konofagou, Elisa E.; Camarena, Francisco

    2012-10-01

    Harmonic Motion Imaging (HMI) uses an amplitude-modulated (AM) beam to induce an oscillatory radiation force before, during and after ablation. In this paper, the findings from a numerical analysis of the effects related with the nonlinear propagation of AM focused ultrasonic beams in water on the radiation force and the location of its maxima will be presented. The numerical modeling is performed using the KZK nonlinear parabolic equation. The radiation force is generated by a focused transducer with a gain of 18, a carrier frequency of 1 MHz and a modulation frequency of 25 kHz. The modulated excitation generates a spatially-invariant force proportional to the intensity. Regarding the nonlinear wave propagation, the force is no longer proportional to the intensity, reaching a factor of eight between the nonlinear and linear estimations. Also, a 9 mm shift in the on-axis force peak occurs when the initial pressure increased from 1 to 300 kPa. This spatial shift, due to the nonlinear effects, becomes dynamic in AM focused beams, as the different signal periods have different amplitudes. This study shows that both the value and the spatial position of the force peak are affected by the nonlinear propagation of the ultrasonic waves.

  3. Nonlinear internal waves and plumes generated in response to sea-loch outflow, AUV, and time-lapse photography observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Toberman, Matthew; Inall, Mark; Boyd, Tim; Dumount, Estelle; Griffiths, Colin

    2017-07-01

    The tidally modulated outflow of brackish water from a sea loch forms a thin surface layer that propagates into the coastal ocean as a buoyant gravity current, transporting nutrients and sediments, as well as fresh water, heat and momentum. The fresh intrusion both propagates into and generates a strongly stratified environment which supports trains of nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs). NLIWs are shown to propagate ahead of this buoyancy input in response to propagation of the outflow water into the stratified environment generated by the previous release as well as in the opposing direction after the reflection from steep bathymetry. Oblique aerial photographs were taken and photogrammetric rectification led to the identification of the buoyant intrusion and the subsequent generation of NLIWs. An autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) was deployed on repeated reciprocal transects in order to make simultaneous CTD, ADCP, and microstructure shear measurements of the evolution of these phenomena in conjunction with conventional mooring measurements. AUV-based temperature and salinity signals of NLIWs of depression were observed together with increased turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates of over 2 orders of magnitude within and in the wake of the NLIWs. Repeated measurements allow a unique opportunity to investigate the horizontal structure of these phenomena. Simple metric scaling demonstrates that these processes are likely to be feature of many fjordic systems located on the west coast of Scotland but may also play a key role in the assimilation of the outflow from many tidally dominated fjordic systems throughout the world.

  4. Stratified flows in complex terrain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Retallack, Charles

    The focus of this dissertation is the study of stratified atmospheric flows in the presence of complex terrain. Two large-scale field study campaigns were carried out, each with a focus on a specific archetypal terrain. Each field study involved the utilization of remote and in-situ atmospheric monitoring devices to collect experimental data. The first of the two field studies focused on pollution transport mechanisms near an escarpment. The analysis aimed to determine the combined effect of the escarpment and ambient density stratification on the flow and aerosol pollution transport. It was found that under specific atmospheric conditions, the escarpment prompted the channeling, down-mixing, and trapping of aerosol pollutant plumes. The objective of the second field campaign was the study of stratified flows in a mountain valley. Analysis revealed that buoyancy driven katabatic currents originating on the surrounding valley slopes created a scenario in which a down-slope gravity current transitioned into an intrusive gravity current. The intrusive gravity current propagated near the interface of a density stratified lower ambient layer and a non-stratified upper ambient layer. A combination of shallow water theory and energy arguments is used to produce a model for the propagation of a gravity current moving along the interface of a homogeneous ambient layer and a linearly stratified layer. It is found that the gravity current propagating entirely within the homogeneous layer travels at the greatest speed. As the relative density of the gravity current is increased, the gravity current begins to slump below the interface of the two layers and the propagation speed decreases.

  5. Formation and dynamics of plasma bullets in a non-thermal plasma jet: influence of the high-voltage parameters on the plume characteristics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jarrige, Julien; Laroussi, Mounir; Karakas, Erdinc

    2010-12-01

    Non-thermal plasma jets in open air are composed of ionization waves commonly known as 'plasma bullets' propagating at high velocities. We present in this paper an experimental study of plasma bullets produced in a dielectric barrier discharge linear-field reactor fed with helium and driven by microsecond high-voltage pulses. Two discharges were produced between electrodes for every pulse (at the rising and falling edge), but only one bullet was generated. Fast intensified charge coupled device camera imaging showed that bullet velocity and diameter increase with applied voltage. Spatially resolved optical emission spectroscopy measurements provided evidence of the hollow structure of the jet and its contraction. It was shown that the pulse amplitude significantly enhances electron energy and production of active species. The plasma bullet appeared to behave like a surface discharge in the tube, and like a positive streamer in air. A kinetics mechanism based on electron impact, Penning effect and charge transfer reactions is proposed to explain the propagation of the ionization front and temporal behavior of the radiative species.

  6. Gravitational Effects on Cellular Flame Structure

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dunsky, C. M.; Fernandez-Pello, A. C.

    1991-01-01

    An experimental investigation has been conducted of the effect of gravity on the structure of downwardly propagating, cellular premixed propane-oxygen-nitrogen flames anchored on a water-cooled porous-plug burner. The flame is subjected to microgravity conditions in the NASA Lewis 2.2-second drop tower, and flame characteristics are recorded on high-speed film. These are compared to flames at normal gravity conditions with the same equivalence ratio, dilution index, mixture flow rate, and ambient pressure. The results show that the cellular instability band, which is located in the rich mixture region, changes little under the absence of gravity. Lifted normal-gravity flames near the cellular/lifted limits, however, are observed to become cellular when gravity is reduced. Observations of a transient cell growth period following ignition point to heat loss as being an important mechanism in the overall flame stability, dominating the stabilizing effect of buoyancy for these downwardly-propagating burner-anchored flames. The pulsations that are observed in the plume and diffusion flame generated downstream of the premixed flame in the fuel rich cases disappear in microgravity, verifying that these fluctuations are gravity related.

  7. Molecular Composition Analysis of Distant Targets

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hughes, Gary B.; Lubin, Philip

    2017-01-01

    This document is the Final Report for NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I Grant 15-NIAC16A-0145, titled Molecular Composition Analysis of Distant Targets. The research was focused on developing a system concept for probing the molecular composition of cold solar system targets, such as Asteroids, Comets, Planets and Moons from a distant vantage, for example from a spacecraft that is orbiting the target (Hughes et al., 2015). The orbiting spacecraft is equipped with a high-power laser, which is run by electricity from photovoltaic panels. The laser is directed at a spot on the target. Materials on the surface of the target are heated by the laser beam, and begin to melt and then evaporate, forming a plume of asteroid molecules in front of the heated spot. The heated spot glows, producing blackbody illumination that is visible from the spacecraft, via a path through the evaporated plume. As the blackbody radiation from the heated spot passes through the plume of evaporated material, molecules in the plume absorb radiation in a manner that is specific to the rotational and vibrational characteristics of the specific molecules. A spectrometer aboard the spacecraft is used to observe absorption lines in the blackbody signal. The pattern of absorption can be used to estimate the molecular composition of materials in the plume, which originated on the target. Focusing on a single spot produces a borehole, and shallow subsurface profiling of the targets bulk composition is possible. At the beginning of the Phase I research, the estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the system was TRL-1. During the Phase I research, an end-to-end theoretical model of the sensor system was developed from first principles. The model includes laser energy and optical propagation, target heating, melting and evaporation of target material, plume density, thermal radiation from the heated spot, molecular cross section of likely asteroid materials, and estimation of the absorption profile at a distant spectrometer. Results obtained by executing simulations based on the model provide compelling evidence that the concept of remote laser evaporative molecular absorption spectroscopy is feasible. In this document, technical details of the model are presented, and results of simulations are described that indicate the utility of the proposed sensor system. Additionally, an asteroid rendezvous mission is analyzed, with a survey of system requirements to accomplish molecular composition analysis of the asteroid. Based on positive theoretical results obtained during Phase I, the estimated TRL of the system is now TRL-2. This document also describes potential future research and experimentation that could push the system to TRL-4 within 2 years. Steps required for construction of a laboratory prototype are described. An experiment to test predictions of the theory is described, based on the laboratory prototype setup.

  8. Propagation of the Hawaiian-Emperor volcano chain by Pacific plate cooling stress

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Stuart, W.D.; Foulger, G.R.; Barall, M.

    2007-01-01

    The lithosphere crack model, the main alternative to the mantle plume model for age-progressive magma emplacement along the Hawaiian-Emperor volcano chain, requires the maximum horizontal tensile stress to be normal to the volcano chain. However, published stress fields calculated from Pacific lithosphere tractions and body forces (e.g., subduction pull, basal drag, lithosphere density) are not optimal for southeast propagation of a stress-free, vertical tensile crack coincident with the Hawaiian segment of the Hawaiian-Emperor chain. Here we calculate the thermoelastic stress rate for present-day cooling of the Pacific plate using a spherical shell finite element representation of the plate geometry. We use observed seafloor isochrons and a standard model for lithosphere cooling to specify the time dependence of vertical temperature profiles. The calculated stress rate multiplied by a time increment (e.g., 1 m.y.) then gives a thermoelastic stress increment for the evolving Pacific plate. Near the Hawaiian chain position, the calculated stress increment in the lower part of the shell is tensional, with maximum tension normal to the chain direction. Near the projection of the chain trend to the southeast beyond Hawaii, the stress increment is compressive. This incremental stress field has the form necessary to maintain and propagate a tensile crack or similar lithosphere flaw and is thus consistent with the crack model for the Hawaiian volcano chain.?? 2007 The Geological Society of America.

  9. Plume-related mantle source of super-large rare metal deposits from the Lovozero and Khibina massifs on the Kola Peninsula, Eastern part of Baltic Shield: Sr, Nd and Hf isotope systematics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kogarko, L. N.; Lahaye, Y.; Brey, G. P.

    2010-03-01

    The two world’s largest complexes of highly alkaline nepheline syenites and related rare metal loparite and eudialyte deposits, the Khibina and Lovozero massifs, occur in the central part of the Kola Peninsula. We measured for the first time in situ the trace element concentrations and the Sr, Nd and Hf isotope ratios by LA-ICP-MS (laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer) in loparite, eudialyte an in some other pegmatitic minerals. The results are in aggreement with the whole rock Sr and Nd isotope which suggests the formation of these superlarge rare metal deposits in a magmatic closed system. The initial Hf, Sr, Nd isotope ratios are similar to the isotopic signatures of OIB indicating depleted mantle as a source. This leads to the suggestion that the origin of these gigantic alkaline intrusions is connected to a deep seated mantle source—possibly to a lower mantle plume. The required combination of a depleted mantle and high rare metal enrichment in the source can be explained by the input of incompatible elements by metasomatising melts/fluids into the zones of alkaline magma generation shortly before the partial melting event (to avoid ingrowth of radiogenic isotopes). The minerals belovite and pyrochlore from the pegmatites are abnormally high in 87Sr /86Sr ratios. This may be explained by closed system isotope evolution as a result of a significant increase in Rb/Sr during the evolution of the peralkaline magma.

  10. Quiescent Prominence Structure and Dynamics: a new View From the Hinode/SOT

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berger, T.; Okamoto, J.; Slater, G.; Magara, T.; Tarbell, T.; Tsuneta, S.; Hurlburt, N.

    2008-05-01

    To date the Hinode/Solar Optical Telescope (SOT) has produced over a dozen sub-arcsecond, multi-hour movies of quiescent solar prominences in both the Ca II 396.8~nm H-line and the H-alpha 656.3~nm line. These datasets have revealed new details of the structure and dynamics of quiescent prominences including a new form of mass transport in the form of buoyant plume upflows from the chromosphere. We review the SOT prominence datasets to show that quiescent prominences appear in two major morphological categories: "vertically" and "horizontally" structured. The vertically structured prominences all show ubiquitous downflows in 400--700~km wide "streams" with velocities of approximately 10~km~s-1. Most of the vertically structured prominences also show episodic upflows in the form of dark turbulent plumes with typical velocities of 20~km~s-1. Large-scale oscillations are frequently seen in vertical prominences with periods on the order of 10 min and upward propagation speeds of approximately 10~km~s-1. In addition, "bubble" events in which large voids 10--30~Mm across inflate and then burst are seen in some of the vertical prominences. In contrast, the horizontally structured quiescent prominences exhibit only limited flows along the horizontal filaments. We speculate on the origin of the distinction between the vertically and horizontally structured prominences, taking into account viewing angle and the underlying photospheric magnetic flux density. We also discuss the nature of the mysterious dark plumes and bubble expansions and their implications for prominence mass balance in light of recent models of prominence magnetic structure that find vertical flows along some field lines.

  11. The First Historical Eruption of Kambalny Volcano in 2017 .

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gordeev, E.

    2017-12-01

    The first historical eruption at Kambalny volcano began about 21:20 UTC on March 24, 2017 with powerful ash emissions up to 6 km above sea level from the pre-summit crater. According to tephrochronological data, it is assumed that the strong eruptions of the volcano occurred 200 (?) and 600 years ago. KVERT (Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team) of the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology FEB RAS has been monitoring Kambalny volcano since 2002. KVERT worked closely with AMC Elizovo and Tokyo VAAC during the eruption at Kambalny volcano in 2017. The maximum intensity of ash emissions occurred on 25-26 March: a continuous plume laden with ash particles spread over several thousand kilometers, changing the direction of propagation from the volcano from the south-west to the south and south-east. On 27-29 March, the ash plume extended to the west, on 30 March - to the southeast of the volcano. On March 31 and April 01, the volcano was relatively quiet. The resumption of the volcano activity after two days of rest was expressed in powerful ash emissions up to 7 km above sea level. Gas-steam plumes containing some amount of ash were noted on 02-05 April, and powerful ash emissions up to 7 km above sea level occurred on 09 April. The explosive activity at the volcano ended on 11 April. The area of ash deposits was about 1500 km2, the total area covered by ash falls, for example, on 25 March, was about 650 thousand km2. To monitor and study the Kambalny volcano eruption we mainly used satellite images of medium resolution available in the information system "Monitoring volcanic activity in Kamchatka and Kurile Islands" (VolSatView). This work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 16-17-00042.

  12. On causal links between flood basalts and continental breakup

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Courtillot, V.; Jaupart, C.; Manighetti, I.; Tapponnier, P.; Besse, J.

    1999-03-01

    Temporal coincidence between continental flood basalts and breakup has been noted for almost three decades. Eight major continental flood basalts have been produced over the last 300 Ma. The most recent, the Ethiopian traps, erupted in about 1 Myr at 30 Ma. Rifting in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, and possibly East African rift started at about the same time. A second trap-like episode occurred around 2 Ma and formation of true oceanic crust is due in the next few Myr. We find similar relationships for the 60 Ma Greenland traps and opening of the North Atlantic, 65 Ma Deccan traps and opening of the NW Indian Ocean, 132 Ma Parana traps and South Atlantic, 184 Ma Karoo traps and SW Indian Ocean, and 200 Ma Central Atlantic Margin flood basalts and opening of the Central Atlantic Ocean. The 250 Ma Siberian and 258 Ma Emeishan traps seem to correlate with major, if aborted, phases of rifting. Rifting asymmetry, apparent triple junctions and rift propagation (towards the flood basalt area) are common features that may, together with the relative timings of flood basalt, seaward dipping reflector and oceanic crust production, depend on a number of plume- and lithosphere- related factors. We propose a mixed scenario of `active/passive' rifting to account for these observations. In all cases, an active component (a plume and resulting flood basalt) is a pre-requisite for the breakup of a major oceanic basin. But rifting must be allowed by plate-boundary forces and is influenced by pre-existing heterogeneities in lithospheric structure. The best example is the Atlantic Ocean, whose large-scale geometry with three large basins was imposed by the impact points of three mantle plumes.

  13. Localized Optogenetic Targeting of Rotors in Atrial Cardiomyocyte Monolayers.

    PubMed

    Feola, Iolanda; Volkers, Linda; Majumder, Rupamanjari; Teplenin, Alexander; Schalij, Martin J; Panfilov, Alexander V; de Vries, Antoine A F; Pijnappels, Daniël A

    2017-11-01

    Recently, a new ablation strategy for atrial fibrillation has emerged, which involves the identification of rotors (ie, local drivers) followed by the localized targeting of their core region by ablation. However, this concept has been subject to debate because the mode of arrhythmia termination remains poorly understood, as dedicated models and research tools are lacking. We took a unique optogenetic approach to induce and locally target a rotor in atrial monolayers. Neonatal rat atrial cardiomyocyte monolayers expressing a depolarizing light-gated ion channel (Ca 2+ -translocating channelrhodopsin) were subjected to patterned illumination to induce single, stable, and centralized rotors by optical S1-S2 cross-field stimulation. Next, the core region of these rotors was specifically and precisely targeted by light to induce local conduction blocks of circular or linear shapes. Conduction blocks crossing the core region, but not reaching any unexcitable boundary, did not lead to termination. Instead, electric waves started to propagate along the circumference of block, thereby maintaining reentrant activity, although of lower frequency. If, however, core-spanning lines of block reached at least 1 unexcitable boundary, reentrant activity was consistently terminated by wave collision. Lines of block away from the core region resulted merely in rotor destabilization (ie, drifting). Localized optogenetic targeting of rotors in atrial monolayers could lead to both stabilization and destabilization of reentrant activity. For termination, however, a line of block is required reaching from the core region to at least 1 unexcitable boundary. These findings may improve our understanding of the mechanisms involved in rotor-guided ablation. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  14. Dynamics of low- and high-Z metal ions emitted during nanosecond laser-produced plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Elsied, Ahmed M.; Diwakar, Prasoon K.; Polek, Mathew; Hassanein, Ahmed

    2016-11-01

    Dynamics of metal ions during laser-produced plasmas was studied. A 1064 nm, Nd: YAG laser pulse was used to ablate pure Al, Fe, Co, Mo, and Sn samples. Ion flux and velocity were measured using Faraday cup ion collector. Time-of-flight measurements showed decreasing ion flux and ion velocity with increasing atomic weight, and heavy metal ion flux profile exhibited multiple peaks that was not observed in lighter metals. Slow peak was found to follow shifted Maxwell Boltzmann distribution, while the fast peak was found to follow Gaussian distribution. Ion flux angular distribution that was carried out on Mo and Al using fixed laser intensity 2.5 × 1010 W/cm2 revealed that the slow ion flux peaks at small angles, that is, close to normal to the target ˜0° independent of target's atomic weight, and fast ion flux for Mo peaks at large angles ˜40° measured from the target normal, while it completely absents for Al. This difference in spatial and temporal distribution reveals that the emission mechanism of the fast and slow ions is different. From the slow ion flux angular distribution, the measured plume expansion ratio (plume forward peaking) was 1.90 and 2.10 for Al and Mo, respectively. Moreover, the effect of incident laser intensity on the ion flux emission as well as the emitted ion velocity were investigated using laser intensities varying from 2.5 × 1010 W/cm2 to 1.0 × 1011 W/cm2. Linear increase of fast ion flux and velocity, and quadratic increase of slow ion flux and velocity were observed. For further understanding of plume dynamics, laser optical emission spectroscopy was used to characterize Sn plasma by measuring the temporal and spatial evolution of plasma electron density Ne and electron temperature Te. At 3.5 mm away from the target, plasma density showed slow decrease with time, however electron temperature was observed to decrease dramatically. The maximum plasma density and temperature occurred at 0.5 mm away from target and were measured to be 8.0 × 1017 cm-3 and 1.3 eV, respectively.

  15. Human dental enamel and dentin structural effects after Er:YAG laser irradiation.

    PubMed

    Lima, Darlon Martíns; Tonetto, Mateus Rodrigues; de Mendonça, Adriano Augusto Melo; Elossais, André Afif; Saad, José Roberto Cury; de Andrade, Marcelo Ferrarezi; Pinto, Shelon Cristina Souza; Bandéca, Matheus Coelho

    2014-05-01

    Ideally projected to be applied on soft tissues, infrared lasers were improved by restorative dentistry to be used in hard dental tissues cavity preparations--namely enamel and dentin. This paper evidentiates the relevant aspects of infrared Erbium laser's action mechanism and its effects, and characterizes the different effects deriving from the laser's beams emission. The criteria for use and selection of optimal parameters for the correct application of laser systems and influence of supporting factors on the process, such as water amount and its presence in the ablation process, protection exerted by the plasma shielding and structural factors, which are indispensable in dental tissues cavity preparation related to restorative technique, are subordinated to optical modifications caused by the interaction of the energy dissipated by these laser light emission systems in the targeted tissue substrate. Differences in the action of infrared Erbium laser system in regard to the nature of the ablation process and variations on the morphological aspects observed in the superficial structure of the target tissue irradiated, may be correlated to the structural optical modifications of the substrate produced by an interaction of the energy propagated by laser systems.

  16. Germline replacement by blastula cell transplantation in the fish medaka.

    PubMed

    Li, Mingyou; Hong, Ni; Xu, Hongyan; Song, Jianxing; Hong, Yunhan

    2016-07-13

    Primordial germ cell (PGC) specification early in development establishes the germline for reproduction and reproductive technologies. Germline replacement (GR) is a powerful tool for conservation of valuable or endangered animals. GR is achievable by germ cell transplantation into the PGC migration pathway or gonads. Blastula cell transplantation (BCT) can also lead to the chimeric germline containing PGCs of both donor and host origins. It has remained largely unknown whether BCT is able to achieve GR at a high efficiency. Here we report efficient GR by BCT into blastula embryos in the fish medaka (Oryzias latipes). Specifically, dnd depletion completely ablated host PGCs and fertility, and dnd overexpression remarkably boosted PGCs in donor blastulae. BCT between normal donor and host produced a germline transmission rate of ~4%. This rate was enhanced up to ~30% upon PGC boosting in donors. Most importantly, BCT between PGC-boosted donors and PGC-ablated hosts led to more than 90% fertility restoration and 100% GR. Therefore, BCT features an extremely high efficiency of fertility recovery and GR in medaka. This finding makes medaka an ideal model to analyze genetic and physiological donor-host compatibilities for BCT-mediated surrogate production and propagation of endangered lower vertebrates and biodiversity.

  17. Germline replacement by blastula cell transplantation in the fish medaka

    PubMed Central

    Li, Mingyou; Hong, Ni; Xu, Hongyan; Song, Jianxing; Hong, Yunhan

    2016-01-01

    Primordial germ cell (PGC) specification early in development establishes the germline for reproduction and reproductive technologies. Germline replacement (GR) is a powerful tool for conservation of valuable or endangered animals. GR is achievable by germ cell transplantation into the PGC migration pathway or gonads. Blastula cell transplantation (BCT) can also lead to the chimeric germline containing PGCs of both donor and host origins. It has remained largely unknown whether BCT is able to achieve GR at a high efficiency. Here we report efficient GR by BCT into blastula embryos in the fish medaka (Oryzias latipes). Specifically, dnd depletion completely ablated host PGCs and fertility, and dnd overexpression remarkably boosted PGCs in donor blastulae. BCT between normal donor and host produced a germline transmission rate of ~4%. This rate was enhanced up to ~30% upon PGC boosting in donors. Most importantly, BCT between PGC-boosted donors and PGC-ablated hosts led to more than 90% fertility restoration and 100% GR. Therefore, BCT features an extremely high efficiency of fertility recovery and GR in medaka. This finding makes medaka an ideal model to analyze genetic and physiological donor-host compatibilities for BCT-mediated surrogate production and propagation of endangered lower vertebrates and biodiversity. PMID:27406328

  18. Integration and Test Flight Validation Plans for the Pulsed Plasma Thruster Experiment on EO- 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zakrzwski, Charles; Benson, Scott; Sanneman, Paul; Hoskins, Andy; Bauer, Frank H. (Technical Monitor)

    2002-01-01

    The Pulsed Plasma Thruster (PPT) Experiment on the Earth Observing One (EO-1) spacecraft has been designed to demonstrate the capability of a new generation PPT to perform spacecraft attitude control. The PPT is a small, self-contained pulsed electromagnetic propulsion system capable of delivering high specific impulse (900-1200 s), very small impulse bits (10-1000 uN-s) at low average power (less than 1 to 100 W). Teflon fuel is ablated and slightly ionized by means of a capacitative discharge. The discharge also generates electromagnetic fields that accelerate the plasma by means of the Lorentz Force. EO-1 has a single PPT that can produce thrust in either the positive or negative pitch direction. The flight validation has been designed to demonstrate of the ability of the PPT to provide precision pointing accuracy, response and stability, and confirmation of benign plume and EMI effects. This paper will document the success of the flight validation.

  19. Collective behavior of silver plasma during pulsed laser ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dildar, I. M.; Rehman, S.; Khaleeq-ur-Rahman, M.; Bhatti, K. A.; Shuaib, A.

    2015-07-01

    The present work reports an electrical investigation of silver plasma using a self-fabricated Langmuir probe in air and under a low vacuum (~10-3 torr). A silver target was irradiated with a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with the wavelength 1.064 µm, energy 10 mJ, pulse duration 9-14 ns and power 1.1 MW. The collective behavior of a silver plasma plume is studied using a Langmuir probe as an electrical diagnostic technique. By applying different positive and negative voltages to the probe, the respective signals are collected on a four channels digital storage oscilloscope having a frequency of 500 MHz. An I-V curve helps to measure electron temperature and electron density directly and plasma frequency, response time, Debye length and number of particles in ‘Debye’s sphere’ indirectly using the theory of Langmuir probe and mathematical formulas. The floating potential is measured as negative for laser induced silver plasma in air and vacuum, following the theory of plasma.

  20. Ionospheric "Volcanology": Ionospheric Detection of Volcano Eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Astafyeva, E.; Shults, K.; Lognonne, P. H.; Rakoto, V.

    2016-12-01

    It is known that volcano eruptions and explosions can generate acoustic and gravity waves. These neutral waves further propagate into the atmosphere and ionosphere, where they are detectable by atmospheric and ionospheric sounding tools. So far, the features of co-volcanic ionospheric perturbations are not well understood yet. The development of the global and regional networks of ground-based GPS/GNSS receivers has opened a new era in the ionospheric detection of natural hazard events, including volcano eruptions. It is now known that eruptions with the volcanic explosivity index (VEI) of more than 2 can be detected in the ionosphere, especially in regions with dense GPS/GNSS-receiver coverage. The co-volcanic ionospheric disturbances are usually characterized as quasi-periodic oscillations. The Calbuco volcano, located in southern Chile, awoke in April 2015 after 43 years of inactivity. The first eruption began at 21:04UT on 22 April 2015, preceded by only an hour-long period of volcano-tectonic activity. This first eruption lasted 90 minutes and generated a sub-Plinian (i.e. medium to large explosive event), gray ash plume that rose 15 km above the main crater. A larger second event on 23 April began at 04:00UT (01:00LT), it lasted six hours, and also generated a sub-Plinian ash plume that rose higher than 15 km. The VEI was estimated to be 4 to 5 for these two events. In this work, we first study ionospheric TEC response to the Calbuco volcano eruptions of April 2015 by using ground-based GNSS-receivers located around the volcano. We analyze the spectral characteristics of the observed TEC variations and we estimate the propagation speed of the co-volcanic ionospheric perturbations. We further proceed with the normal mode summation technique based modeling of the ionospheric TEC variations due to the Calbuco volcano eruptions. Finally, we attempt to localize the position of the volcano from the ionospheric measurements, and we also estimate the time of the beginning of the eruption.

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